Flora and Fauna Investigation: Northern Extension of the ......Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act (Victoria) Presence of threatened community: Herb-rich Plains Grassy Wetland (West Gippsland)

© Biosis September 2012 – Leading ecology and heritage consultants 1

Flora and Fauna Investigation: Northern Extension of the Mornington Peninsula Freeway Final Report Prepared for VicRoads

19 June 2013

© Biosis 2013 – Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting II

© Biosis Pty Ltd

This document is and shall remain the property of Biosis Pty Ltd. The document may only be used for the purposes for which it was commissioned and in accordance with the Terms of the Engagement for the commission. Unauthorised use of this document in any form whatsoever is prohibited.

Disclaimer:

Biosis Pty Ltd has completed this assessment in accordance with the relevant federal, state and local legislation and current industry best practice. The company accepts no liability for any damages or loss incurred as a result of reliance placed upon the report content or for any purpose other than that for which it was intended.

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Report to: VicRoads

Prepared by: Vanessa Westcott, Daniel Gilmore, Rohan Simkin and Anthony Steelcable

Biosis matter no.: 15577

Version/date Internal review by Date sent to client

Draft version 01 MDD 25/01/13

Draft version 02 VCW 21/02/13

Draft version 03 JY 26/04/13

Final version 01 VCW 19/06/13

File name: 15577. FFA NMPFE. FIN. 19.6.13

Citation: Biosis (2013). Flora and Fauna Assessment: Northern Mornington Peninsula Freeway Extension FINAL. Report for VicRoads Authors: Vanessa Westcott, Daniel Gilmore, Rohan Simkin and Anthony Steelcable, Biosis Pty Ltd, Melbourne.

Acknowledgements

Biosis Research acknowledges the contribution of the following people and organisations in undertaking this study:

• VicRoads: Amanda James

• Parks Vic: Alex Edney

• Department of Sustainability and Environment: Julie Edwards

• City of Kingston: Tony Collins

• Melbourne Water: David Reginato

• Department of Sustainability & Environment for access to the Victorian Biodiversity Atlas

The following Biosis Research staff were involved in this project:

• Martin Lee for database searches and field work

© Biosis 2013 – Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting III

Contents 1. Introduction .................................................................................................................................................... 1 1.1 Project background........................................................................................................................................................... 1 1.2 Scope of assessment ........................................................................................................................................................ 1 1.3 Location of the study area ............................................................................................................................................... 2 2. Methods ........................................................................................................................................................... 3 2.1 Literature and database review ...................................................................................................................................... 3 2.2 Stakeholder consultation ................................................................................................................................................. 3 2.3 Vegetation mapping (including habitat hectare assessment) ..................................................................................... 4 2.4 Targeted survey for Growling Grass Frog ...................................................................................................................... 4 2.5 Targeted threatened waterbird and migratory shorebird survey .............................................................................. 5 2.6 Definitions of significance ................................................................................................................................................ 5

2.6.1 Species and ecological communities ............................................................................................................... 5 2.6.2 Biosites ................................................................................................................................................................. 5

2.7 Likelihood of occurrence .................................................................................................................................................. 6 2.8 Legislation and policy ....................................................................................................................................................... 6 2.9 Qualifications ..................................................................................................................................................................... 6 2.10 Mapping ............................................................................................................................................................................. 6 3. Results .............................................................................................................................................................. 7 3.1 Vegetation & fauna habitat within the NMPFE portion of the study area ................................................................. 7 3.2 Dingley Bypass corridor .................................................................................................................................................12 3.3 Landscape context ..........................................................................................................................................................12

3.3.2 Edithvale-Seaford Wetlands ............................................................................................................................12 3.3.3 Braeside Park ....................................................................................................................................................13 3.3.4 Eastern Treatment Sewerage Plant ...............................................................................................................13 3.3.5 Westall Road .....................................................................................................................................................13 3.3.6 Other Biosites ...................................................................................................................................................14 3.3.7 Waterway Estate and surrounding wetlands ...............................................................................................14

3.4 Targeted survey for Growling Grass Frog ....................................................................................................................16 3.5 Targeted threatened waterbird and migratory shorebird survey ............................................................................17 3.6 Significant species and ecological communities .........................................................................................................18

3.6.1 EPBC Act, FFG Act & DSE Advisory listed species .........................................................................................18 3.6.2 Significant ecological communities ................................................................................................................19

3.7 Cinnamon Fungus ...........................................................................................................................................................19 3.8 Phylloxera.........................................................................................................................................................................20 3.9 Acid sulfate soils ..............................................................................................................................................................20 3.10 Further survey recommendations ................................................................................................................................20

© Biosis 2013 – Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting IV

4. Biodiversity Legislation and Government Policy ................................................................................... 22 4.1 Commonwealth ...............................................................................................................................................................22

4.1.1 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.............................................................22 4.2 State ..................................................................................................................................................................................22

4.2.2 Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 (FFG Act) ............................................................................................22 4.2.3 Environment Effects Act 1978 .........................................................................................................................24 4.2.4 Planning and Environment Act 1987 (incl. Planning Schemes) ..................................................................24 4.2.5 Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994 (CaLP Act) ..................................................................................26 4.2.6 Native Vegetation Management Framework ...............................................................................................27 4.2.7 Fisheries Act 1995 .............................................................................................................................................27 4.2.8 Water Act 1989..................................................................................................................................................27 4.2.9 Environment Protection Act 1970: State Environmental Protection Policy (Waters of Victoria) 2003 ..28

5. Victoria’s Native Vegetation Management Framework (Net Gain) ................................................... 29 5.1 Quantifying native vegetation on site...........................................................................................................................29

5.1.1 Patches of native vegetation ...........................................................................................................................29 5.1.2 Scattered Trees .................................................................................................................................................35

6. Implications for the Project ....................................................................................................................... 36 Appendices ............................................................................................................................................................ 39

© Biosis 2013 – Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting V

Summary Biosis Pty Ltd was commissioned by VicRoads to undertake a flora and fauna assessment of the alignment for the proposed northern Mornington Peninsula Freeway extension (NMPFE). VicRoads is undertaking a feasibility study of the freeway extension, which would commence at Springvale Road and join up with the Dingley Bypass, and are seeking to understand all potential flora and fauna issues associated with the project.

On the basis of our current understanding of the site, there is no single ecological issue that is likely to prevent the project from proceeding. There is however a range of potential ecological constraints which require further investigation.

Ecological values

Key ecological values identified within the NMPFE portion of the study area comprise:

• 6.47 ha of Very High and 2.95 ha of High Conservation significance vegetation

• A total of 2.51habitat hectares of native vegetation

• 35 scattered trees

• 6.34 ha of FFG-listed community: Herb-rich Plains Grassy Wetland (West Gippsland)

• A minimum of 3.62 ha of EPBC-listed ecological community: Seasonal Herbaceous Wetlands (Freshwater) of the Temperate Lowland Plains (an additional 2.64 ha has the potential to also be this community)

• Habitat for Growling Grass Frog (EPBC-listed species) in the Waterways Estate

• Habitat for a variety of threatened flora species

• Habitat for a number of migratory birds, particularly Latham's Snipe

• Habitat for threatened aquatic fauna.

The project also affects the Dingley Bypass reservation. The ecological values of this area were considered as part of recent planning for the Dingley Bypass.

The study area is in close proximity to the nationally significant Edithvale-Seaford Ramsar Site and the state significant Braeside Park and Eastern Treatment Plant.

An assessment of the project against key biodiversity legislation and policy is summarised in Table 1 on the next page.

Recommendations

We recommend additional surveys to fully document the ecological significance of the study area including targeted surveys for significant flora and fish. A hydrological assessment is recommended to determine whether impacts to the Edithvale-Seaford Ramsar Site may occur.

Soil testing for Cinnamon Fungus and an assessment of potential for acid sulfate soils within the study area is also recommended as part of the pre-construction approvals process.

If the project proceeds, a number of mitigation measures can be adopted including storm water treatment and offsetting of native vegetation to be removed. More detailed mitigation measures can be provided once the further surveys are undertaken.

© Biosis 2013 – Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting VI

Table 1: Government legislation and policy

Legislation / Policy

Relevant ecological feature on site Permit / Approval required

Notes

Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act (Commonwealth)

Presence of threatened community: Seasonal Herbaceous Wetlands (Freshwater) of the Temperate Lowland Plains. Suitable habitat for a number of threatened flora, fish and migratory shorebird species. In its entirety, the alignment is likely to provide habitat for an ecologically significant population of Latham's Snipe, which is listed as migratory under the Act. Potential population of Growling Grass Frogs in Waterways Estate. The species has not been observed there for > 6 years, despite a number of targeted surveys and may now be extinct. Construction of the project may impact upon local hydrological processes and the nearby Edithvale-Seaford Ramsar Site.

Further assessments are required. On the basis of existing information, a referral is recommended prior to construction of the project.

Prior to preparation of referral to DSEWPaC, undertake targeted surveys for threatened flora and fish. Commission a detailed investigation on the potential for hydrological changes affecting the nearby Seaford-Edithvale-Seaford Ramsar Site.

Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act (Victoria)

Presence of threatened community: Herb-rich Plains Grassy Wetland (West Gippsland) Community. Suitable habitat for threatened flora and fauna.

Protected Flora Permit will be required.

Site is existing and future public land. Further surveys for listed species required.

Planning & Environment Act (Victoria)

All indigenous vegetation to be cleared. Planning permit likely to be required.

Permit application will need to outline measures taken to address steps 1 and 2 of Net Gain policy. Comply with 3 step approach to Net Gain. Likely to require provision of Net Gain offsets.

Catchment and Land Protection Act (Victoria)

Noxious weed species and pest animals present within the study area.

Permit from DPI may be required to transport soil/rock off site.

Comply with requirements to control/eradicate listed species.

Water Act (Victoria)

Mordialloc Creek and tributaries. Referral to Melbourne Water.

Discuss project design with Melbourne Water.

Fisheries Act (Victoria)

Suitable habitat for protected aquatic biota.

Permit may be required.

Further surveys required.

SEPP (Victoria) Mordialloc Creek and tributaries. Not Applicable. Adhere to EPA requirements.

Note: Guidance provided in this report does not constitute legal advice.

© Biosis 2013 – Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 1

1. Introduction

1.1 Project background

Biosis Pty Ltd was commissioned by VicRoads to undertake a flora and fauna assessment of the alignment for the proposed northern Mornington Peninsula Freeway extension (NMPFE). VicRoads is undertaking a feasibility study of the freeway extension, which would commence at Springvale Road and join up with the Dingley Bypass, and are seeking to understand all potential flora and fauna issues associated with the project.

1.2 Scope of assessment

The objectives of this investigation are to:

• Review databases relating to flora and both terrestrial and aquatic fauna issues relevant to the study area, including the Victorian Biodiversity Atlas (VBA) and Environment Protection Biodiversity Conservation Act Protected Matters Search Tool.

• Review and provide a brief summary of previous studies, strategies and plans of relevance to the project.

• Review current information relating to the presence of noxious weeds and pests (including Cinnamon Fungus and Phylloxera).

• Identify and map Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVCs).

• Undertake a Vegetation Quality Assessment (required for determining Net Gain outcomes).

• Record any threatened species or significant infestations of noxious weeds identified in the above surveys.

• Assess the conservation significance of the habitat, and the occurrence and likelihood of threatened species.

• Identify areas where targeted survey for threatened flora and fauna may be required.

• Undertake a targeted Growling Grass Frog survey in areas of suitable habitat.

• Undertake a targeted threatened waterbird and migratory shorebird survey in areas of suitable and accessible habitat.

• Provide maps and tables of significant flora and fauna species within and surrounding the project area, including their conservation significance.

• Consult with relevant stakeholders including Kingston City Council, Melbourne Water and Parks Victoria.

• Identify the implications of state and federal biodiversity legislation and local policy and planning approvals relevant to the project (note that we are not able to identify if any planning scheme changes or statutory approvals are required; expert planning advice would be required for this).

• Assess potential impacts, including the anticipated level of significance of the impacts, and discuss mitigation options relevant to the proposal.

• Recommend any further assessments of the study area that may be required as part of the feasibility study and/or future pre-construction activities (such as Net Gain impact / offset assessment or targeted searches for listed species).


1.3 Location of the study area

The study area is located between Edithvale and Dingley Village approximately 23 km south-east of the Melbourne CBD (Figure 1). The proposed NMPFE extends from the northern end of the existing Mornington Peninsula Freeway at Springvale Road, crosses Mordialloc Creek and the Waterways Estate, runs immediately west of Braeside Park and joins up with the Dingley Bypass which is currently at the approvals stage. The study area encompasses 206.9 ha of public and private land and is within the:

• Gippsland Plain Bioregion

• Bunyip River Basin

• Management area of Melbourne Water and/ or the Port Phillip and Westernport Catchment Management Authority

• City of Kingston.


2. Methods

2.1 Literature and database review

In order to provide a context for the study area, information about flora and fauna from within 5 km of the study area (the ‘local area’) was obtained from relevant public databases. Aquatic fauna records were searched for the sub-catchments of Mordialloc, Eumemmering and Dandenong Creeks within the Bunyip River Basin. Records from the following databases were collated and reviewed:

• Victorian Biodiversity Atlas ‘VBA_FLORA25, FLORA100 & FLORA Restricted’ August 2012 © The State of Victoria, Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE). The contribution of the Royal Botanical Gardens Melbourne to the database is acknowledged.

• Victorian Biodiversity Atlas ‘VBA_FAUNA25, FAUNA100 & FAUNA Restricted’ August 2012 © The State of Victoria, Department of Sustainability and Environment (this now also includes Platypus data).

• DSE Biodiversity Interactive Map (BIM).

• BirdLife Australia, the New Atlas of Australian Birds 1998-2012 (BA).

• Protected Matters Search Tool of the Australian Government Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (DSEWPaC) for matters protected by the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act).

• Melbourne Water Fish database (MWF).

Other sources of biodiversity information:

• DSE Biosites Register; accessed through the Biodiversity Interactive Map.

• Biosis records that have been submitted to DSE and Melbourne Water but do not yet appear on the VBA or MWF).

A large number of previous reports describing the ecological values of the study area and surrounds were also reviewed. A full list of all documents reviewed is provided in Appendix 1.

2.2 Stakeholder consultation

As part of background research into the ecological values of the study area, Biosis and VicRoads consulted with the following stakeholders to identify all potential flora and fauna constraints on the project:

• David Reginato – Melbourne Water (meeting 19.11.12)

• Alex Edney – Parks Victoria (meeting 21.11.12)

• Tony Collins – City of Kingston (meeting 21.11.12)

• Nick Clemann – DSE (email correspondence 17.01.13)

• Julie Edwards – Department of Sustainability and Environment (phone only).


2.3 Vegetation mapping (including habitat hectare assessment)

Vegetation mapping and habitat hectare assessment were undertaken in April 2013.

The general condition of native vegetation was observed as well as the effects of current seasonal conditions. Notes were made on specific issues such as noxious weed infestations, evidence of management works, current grazing impacts and the regeneration capacity of the vegetation.

Classification of native vegetation is based on ecological vegetation classes (EVCs). An EVC contains one or more floristic (plant) communities, and represents a grouping of broadly similar environments. Definitions of EVCs and benchmarks (condition against which vegetation quality at the site can be compared) are as determined by DSE.

Where native vegetation was identified within the study area, an assessment in relation to the Native Vegetation Management Framework (Net Gain policy) according to standard methods provided by DSE (2004) was also undertaken while on-site.

Vegetation mapping was restricted to the area south of the Dingley Bypass which has been previously mapped (Biosis 2008, BLA 2010).

VicRoads provided property owner names and addresses for land parcels within the study area. Contact details were then sought by Biosis and every effort was made to gain access to all parcels within the study area.

Where access was not granted, attempts were made to assess the vegetation from adjacent land if possible. Otherwise, the property was mapped as 'not assessed'.

2.4 Targeted survey for Growling Grass Frog

A translocated population of Growling Grass Frogs was released into the Waterways Estate in January 2002. Approximately 50 frogs were released there, following their salvage from the Carroll Road sand quarry, which has since been destroyed. Large areas of the Waterways Estate were revegetated with wetland plants specifically to provide habitat for Growling Grass Frog (Robertson 2002). The translocated population has been the subject of ongoing monitoring (ARI 2007, ARI 2008, Ecology Partners 2009). Growling Grass Frogs were observed in March and April 2002, January 2003 and again during monitoring in December 2004 and January 2006 (ARI 2007). No Growling Grass Frogs have been observed in the Waterways Estate since January 2006.

To determine if Growling Grass Frogs still persist in waterbodies in and adjacent to the alignment, a targeted survey was undertaken on 20 December 2012 and 3 January 2013. The survey focussed on sampling key areas of higher quality wetland habitat within the alignment (larger waterbodies supporting a high cover of aquatic vegetation). Due to access constraints not all waterbodies were surveyed. Surveyed waterbodies included those in the Waterways Estate, some Melbourne Water wetlands to the north of the Waterways Estate, Braeside Park and some farm dams in the northern part of the alignment. The majority of the wetlands assessed were surveyed twice.

A combination of visual encounter surveys using headlamps and call recognition was employed to locate Growling Grass Frogs. Two observers searched the margins of the wetlands for active frogs after dark. Growling Grass Frog is a large species with distinctive eye shine and advertisement call. All surveys were undertaken on warm, calm nights, which are considered suitable for detection of the species. The surveys were undertaken in accordance with Commonwealth survey guidelines for this species.


2.5 Targeted threatened waterbird and migratory shorebird survey

A survey for threatened waterbird species (e.g. crakes, bitterns, ducks, egrets) and bird species listed under the migratory provisions of the EPBC Act was undertaken at wetlands within and adjacent to the NMPFE alignment (including the Waterways Estate and Braeside Park) to asses the use of habitats by these species. The purpose was to determine the significance of the study area for these species and inform the level of impact the project may have on these species in terms of direct habitat loss and through indirect impacts such as disturbance.

To carry out the survey, we accessed properties within the NMPFE alignment where potential habitat for these species was identified from on-ground vegetation mapping and from air photo interpretation. Survey was not undertaken on land parcels where there was not likely to be habitat for threatened waterbirds and migratory shorebirds and for this reason the survey concentrated in the southern section of the alignment.

Survey was undertaken on 5, 7, 13, 14 and 25 March 2013. Concurrent botanical survey demonstrated that ephemeral wetlands within the NMPFE alignment were dry during this period, and therefore not likely to support threatened waterbirds such as crakes, rails or Latham's Snipe during the survey period. However, these dry wetlands were mapped as potential habitat for these species. The key areas surveyed were therefore the artificial wetlands in and adjacent to the Waterways Estate, which are permanent waterbodies. All wetlands were surveyed at least once and the majority were surveyed on three occasions. Potential and known habitat for threatened waterbirds and migratory shorebirds was mapped at each wetland surveyed.

At several wetlands, dusk listening and call playback surveys were undertaken in an attempt to locate Australasian and Little Bitterns. These species are very cryptic and their presence is often revealed by their characteristic vocalisations, which are often made after dark.

2.6 Definitions of significance

2.6.1 Species and ecological communities

Significance of a species or community is determined by their listing as rare or threatened under Commonwealth or State legislation / policy. The sources used to categorise significance of species and communities in this report are summarised below in Table 2.

Table 2: Criteria for determining significance of species & ecological communities

Significance

National Listed as threatened (critically endangered, endangered, vulnerable or conservation dependent) under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.

State Listed as threatened (critically endangered, endangered, vulnerable) or rare for flora species, in Victoria on a DSE Advisory List (DSE 2005a, 2013). Listed as threatened under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988.

Fauna species listed as near threatened or data deficient are listed in Appendix 3, however in accordance with advice from DSE these fauna species are not considered to be at the same level of risk as higher categories of threat. These species are generally not discussed in detail in this report.

2.6.2 Biosites

Areas of conservation significance are documented in the DSE Biodiversity Interactive Map. Biosites are ranked as significant at national, state, regional and local levels.


2.7 Likelihood of occurrence

The likelihood of occurrence is a broad categorisation used by Biosis to indicate the potential for a species to occur within the site. It is based on expert opinion and implies the relative value of a site for a particular species.

The likelihood of species occurring within the site is ranked as negligible, low, medium, high or recorded. The rationale for the rank assigned is provided for each species in Appendix 2 (flora) and Appendix 3 (fauna). Species which have at least medium likelihood of occurrence are given further consideration in this report. The need for targeted survey for these species is also considered.

2.8 Legislation and policy

The following key pieces of biodiversity legislation and policy were reviewed and the implications for the project were assessed accordingly:

• Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act)

• Flora & Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 (FFG Act)

• Victoria’s Native Vegetation Management – a Framework for Action (the Framework; DNRE 2002).

• Planning and Environment Act 1987 – specifically Clauses 12.01-2, 52.17 and 66.02 and Overlays in the relevant Planning Scheme

• Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994 (CaLP Act)

• Fisheries Act 1995

• Water Act 1989

• Environment Protection Act 1971: State Environmental Protection Policy (Waters of Victoria) 2003.

2.9 Qualifications

Ecological surveys provide a sampling of flora and fauna at a given time and season. There are a number of reasons why not all species will be detected at a site during survey, such as low abundance, patchy distribution, species dormancy, seasonal conditions, and migration and breeding behaviours. In many cases these factors do not present a significant limitation to assessing the overall biodiversity values of a site.

The current flora and fauna assessment was conducted in summer through to autumn which are reasonable times for survey. Some of the vegetation encountered during the vegetation mapping had been heavily grazed by stock. Some of the wetlands identified within these areas were therefore assigned a 'default wetland score' (see Section 5 for further details).

2.10 Mapping

Mapping has been produced using a Geographic Information System (GIS). Electronic GIS files which contain our flora and fauna spatial data are available to incorporate into design concept plans. However this mapping may not be sufficiently precise for detailed design purposes.


3. Results

A list of significant species previously recorded or predicted to occur in the local area is provided in Appendices 2 and 3, along with an assessment of the likelihood of the species occurring within the study area. The ecological features of the study area are shown in Figure 2.

3.1 Vegetation & fauna habitat within the NMPFE portion of the study area

The vegetation and fauna habitat throughout the majority of the NMPFE part of the study area has been highly modified by past disturbances which have included the draining of Carrum Swamp, clearing of vegetation and modification of landscape for urban development, extensive modifications of waterways and introduction of exotic flora and fauna species. Most of the study area has been significantly degraded and supports predominantly introduced vegetation that is of limited value for native fauna.

The study area supports a range of ecological features including areas of native vegetation (Plains Grassy Wetland EVC 125, Plains Grassy Woodland EVC 55, Creekline Grassy Woodland EVC 68, Aquatic Sedgeland EVC 308, Swamp Scrub EVC 53, Tall Marsh EVC 821, South Gippsland Plains Grassland EVC 132_62 ),scattered trees, dams and drains.

Ecological Vegetation Classes

Plains Grassy Wetland within the study area is largely modified in nature. Most areas of this EVC have been exposed to a history of agriculture and other land uses that have involved soil disturbance, pasture improvement, grazing and incursion by weeds. Dominant indigenous species include a range of sedges and rushes such as Hollow Rush Juncus amabilis, Gold Rush Juncus flavidus and Common Spike Sedge Eleocharis acuta, grasses such as Common Swamp Wallaby-grass Amphibromus nervosus and Brown-back Wallaby-grass Rytidosperma duttonianum and herbs such as Prickfoot Eryngium vesiculosum (Plate 1a and b). Plains Grassy Wetland within the study area contains a significant cover of weed species including Couch Cynodon dactylon, Paspalum Paspalum dilatatum, Toowoomba Canary-grass Phalaris aquatica and Curled Dock Rumex crispus.

Areas of Plains Grassy Wetland are representative of the FFG-listed Herb-rich Plains Grassy Wetland (West Gippsland) Community. In some instances areas of this EVC are also consistent with the EPBC-listed community Seasonal Herbaceous Wetlands (Freshwater) of the Temperate Lowland Plains (see section 3.5).

Plate 1a: Plains Grassy Wetland Plate 1b: Heavily grazed Plains Grassy Wetland


Plains Grassy Woodland is defined by the presence of patches of remnant River Red Gum Eucalyptus camaldulensis. Patches of the EVC within the study area are limited to small groupings of trees (Plate 2). A history of disturbance and ongoing agricultural land use has largely removed native understorey species from this EVC. The understorey is dominated by weed species such as Paspalum, Toowoomba Canary-grass and Couch.

Plate 2: Plains Grassy Woodland with a weedy understorey

Creekline Grassy Woodland occurs along a modified drainage line south of Centre Dandenong Road. This EVC is dominated by a number of large River Red-gums with a mid-storey of scattered shrubs including Hedge Wattle Acacia paradoxa and Swamp Paperbark Melaleuca ericifolia. The understorey of this EVC is dominated by weed species including Blackberry Rubus fruticosus spp. agg, Gorse Ulex europaeus and Flax-leaf Broom Genista linifolia and grasses such as Prairie Grass Bromus catharticus.

Plate 3: Creekline Grassy Woodland

Aquatic Sedgeland occurs in small areas within the study area fringing constructed wetlands associated with Waterways Estate and the result of revegetation works (Plate 4). These areas are dominated by tall sedges such as Leafy Twig-sedge Cladium procerum, Tall Spike-sedge Eleocharis sphacelata and River Club-sedge Schoenoplectus tabernaemontani with a number of small herbs such as Slender Knotweed Persicaria decipiens and Lesser Joyweed Alternanthera denticulata also present. The EVC has a relatively low cover of weeds although species such as Flat Drain-sedge Cyperus eragrostis, Couch and Aster-weed Aster subulatus are found throughout.


Plate 4: Aquatic Sedgeland dominated by Leafy Twig-sedge

Swamp Scrub is found in small pockets close to drainage lines and in areas surrounding constructed wetlands near Waterways Estate. The EVC is defined by the presence of a dense overstorey of Swamp Paperbark which provides the majority of the projective foliage cover (Plate 5). Other species are present in low abundance including Prickly Teat-tree Leptospermum continentale, Common Reed Phragmites australis and Broom Rush Juncus sarophorus. The heavy projective cover of Swamp Paperbark prevents the establishment of most weed species but species such as Toowoomba Canary-grass and Paspalum can be found scattered throughout.

Plate 5: Swamp Scrub dominated by Swamp Paperbark

Tall Marsh is not common in the study area but could be found in small wetter depressions and along constructed wetlands associated with Waterways Estate (Plate 6). The EVC is largely dominated by Common Reed with other sedges such as Salt Club-sedge Bolboschoenus caldwellii and Common Spike-sedge also present.

The heavy cover of Common Reed prevents widespread establishment of weeds but species such as Ox-tongue Helminthotheca echioides, Toowoomba Canary-grass and Ribwort Plantago lanceolata are scattered throughout.

Sedge Wetland within the study area has been established using indigenous plantings as part of the construction of wetlands associated with Waterways Estate. The vegetation consists of a generally high diversity of planted species including sedges such as Poong'ort Carex tereticaulis and Salt Club-sedge, rushes such as Tall rush Juncus procerus, herbs such as Small Loosestrife Lythrum hyssopifolia and tussock grasses such as Common Blown-grass Lachnagrostis filiformis (Plate 6). The cover of weeds species in this area is relatively low with species such as Aster Weed and Curled Dock scattered throughout.


Plate 6: Sedge Wetland in the foreground with Tall Marsh in the background

South Gippsland Plains Grassland is restricted to one small patch within the study area (Plate 7). This area has been revegetated as part of the development of the Waterways Estate. The EVC is dominated by tussock grass species including Common Tussock-grass Poa labillardierei and Kangaroo grass Themeda triandra with a number of rush species such as Hollow Rush Juncus amabilis and a range of forbs such as Hairy Willow-herb Epilobium hirtigerum and Lesser Joyweed. This EVC contained a number of common exotic species including Aster Weed, Prairie Grass and Toowoomba Canary-grass.

Plate 7: South Gippsland Plains Grassland dominated by Common Tussock-grass

Scattered remnant trees within the study area provide a foraging resource for mobile fauna species. Indigenous tree species present include River Red-gum, Swamp Gum Eucalyptus ovata and Manna Gum (Plate 8). Scattered trees have also been mapped within the Dingley Bypass corridor (BLA 2012).


Plate 8: Scattered remnant River Red-gum tree

Degraded Treeless Vegetation covers much of the study area and is of limited ecological value (Plate 9). Common weed species include Kikuyu Pennisetum clandestinum, Yorkshire Fog Holcus lanatus and Blackberry.

Plate 9: Degraded Treeless Vegetation

Planted vegetation occurs throughout the study area as landscape plantings and street trees. Planted vegetation includes indigenous, non-indigenous natives and introduced species. The planted non-indigenous natives and introduced species generally have few habitat values for fauna.

Other ecological features

Mordialloc Creek bisects the study area and represents a highly modified waterway that is a constructed incised channel fringed by robust species of emergent aquatic vegetation including Cumbungi Typha sp. and Common Reed Phragmites australis. The Dingley Drain and several small unnamed tributaries within the study area are mostly ephemeral and highly regulated and flow into Mordialloc Creek. These waterways contain limited suitable habitat for threatened species but form an important linkage between ecological communities within the Mordialloc Creek system.

Artificial wetlands within Waterways Estate and Melbourne Water land contain large deep pools fringed by dense emergent and riparian vegetation (Plate 4). These wetlands provide suitable habitat for a broad suite of aquatic fauna, although incursions by numerous introduced species is expected to have reduced the likelihood of threatened aquatic species occurring within these wetlands.


Introduced species known to occur in the wetlands of Waterways Estate include European Carp Cyprinus carpio, Redfin Perch Perca fluviatilis, Roach Rutilis rutilis and Eastern Gambusia Gambusia holbrooki.

Ephemeral creeks and drainage lines occur within and downstream of the study area. Many of these were dry at the time of assessment. Some emergent aquatic vegetation and rock was evident along their length. Under dry conditions these areas may provide habitat for certain species of burrowing crayfish and frog species. When inundated and connected to water storages and Waterways Wetlands, these habitats may provide foraging habitat, spawning habitat and/or a movement corridor for aquatic fauna located in the wider area.

3.2 Dingley Bypass corridor

Surveys within the Dingley Bypass corridor have been undertaken by Biosis in 2008 and Brett Lane and Associates in 2012.

Mapped vegetation near Dingley Village (Biosis Research 2008) includes:

• Plains Grassy Woodland.

• Damp Sands Herb-rich Woodland.

• Plains Grassy Wetland.

• Swamp Scrub.

• Swampy Woodland.

Mapped vegetation along the Dingley Bypass construction corridor (BLA 2012) includes:

• Damp Sands herb-rich Woodland.

• Swamp Scrub.

• Plains Grassy Woodland.

• Creekline Grassy Woodland.

The study of the Dingley Bypass corridor also identified scattered trees and suitable habitat for Growling Grass Frog, Southern Brown Bandicoot and Southern Toadlet (BLA 2012). Targeted surveys were undertaken for these species but were not recorded in the study area. Parts of the Dingley Bypass corridor occur within a Biosite (see Section 3.3.5) and a threatened wetland community has also been recorded in this area (Section 3.6.2).

3.3 Landscape context

The study area occurs in a largely residential/industrial area. The area has been highly modified by past disturbance and now only supports scattered patches of remnant vegetation in an otherwise cleared landscape. The alignment itself is an area of open space that is likely to facilitate the movement of some fauna species through the landscape. Key areas within or near the study area that have important ecological values are described below.

3.3.2 Edithvale-Seaford Wetlands

The Edithvale-Seaford Wetlands are located approximately 1 km south-west of the study area (Figure 1) and consist of remnants of the former Carrum Swamp which was an extensive swamp system extending from Mordialloc Creek to Frankston and covering approximately 4,500 ha.


The site is a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention providing high quality habitat for migratory birds. The site is also listed on the Directory of Important Wetlands of Australia and is listed as a nationally significant Biosite (Table 3).

The site consists of two discrete wetland systems: Edithvale Wetlands and Seaford Swamp. The Edithvale Wetlands (95 ha) are managed by Melbourne Water and Seaford Swamp (120 ha) is managed jointly by Melbourne Water and the City of Frankston.

Most species of wetland dependent birds occurring within southern Victoria have been recorded at the site (Donelly et al. 1985). Birdlife Australia has been conducting monthly surveys for Melbourne Water at the Edithvale Wetlands since September 1989 and at Seaford Swamp since June 1994. There are therefore a very large number of records for this area (Figure 5). A number of EPBC-listed species have been observed within these wetlands including Australasian Bittern (Birds Australia 2011).

3.3.3 Braeside Park

Braeside Park is adjacent to the study area (Figure 1) and is a state significant Biosite (Table 3).

The Park was originally part of the Carrum Swamp and has been previously used as a sewerage plant. The Park has undergone extensive modifications to the drainage patterns and most of the existing wetlands in the Park are highly modified or artificial.

Remnant vegetation within the Park includes a variety of EVCs including approximately 54 ha of heathy woodland and 65 ha of grassy woodland dominated by River Red-gum Eucalyptus camaldulensis. A population of the FFG-listed Purple Diuris Diuris punctata occurs within the Park.

The mosaic of woodland and wetlands in the park provide important local habitat for fauna species.

3.3.4 Eastern Treatment Sewerage Plant

This site is located to the south-east of the study area (Figure 1) and is a state significant Biosite (see Table 3).

This area consists of a series of bare-banked sewage treatment ponds, some settling ponds, a small wetland, grassed areas, a golf course and tree plantings.

The key biodiversity values of the site are the extent and variation of habitat types, which support an abundance and high diversity of bird species. Approximately 244 fauna species have been recorded at the site (Australian Ecosystems 2011). Between 1996 and 2010, the average annual number of birds observed within the study area was approximately 48,700 (Carter 2010).

Forty-four of the species recorded within the site are classified as rare and threatened. Three are listed under the EPBC Act: Australian Painted Snipe Rostratula australis, Swift Parrot Lathamus discolor and Growling Grass Frog (Australian Ecosystems 2011). A further 18 species are listed under the FFG Act such as Eastern Great Egret, Baillon’s Crake Porzana pusilla, Caspian Tern Hydroprogne caspia and endangered Freckled Duck Stictonetta naevosa (Australian Ecosystems 2010). The remaining 23 significant species are listed as near threatened or vulnerable on the DSE Advisory List.

Birds Australia, have conducted surveys of birds on the Plant since it was constructed in 1975 (Sudbury and Carter 2012). There are a large number of bird records for this area (Figure 5).

3.3.5 Westall Road

A relatively large remnant of native vegetation occurs adjacent to Westall Road, north of Spring Road. This part of the study area overlaps Dingley Bypass corridor and contains a mix of EVCs comprising Plains Grassy Woodland, Swamp Scrub, Swampy Woodland, Plains Grassy Wetland and Damp Sands Herb-rich Woodland (Biosis Research 2008).


Although in some areas weed cover is high, the site is significant due to the natural transition between EVCs and the diversity of EVCs present (Biosis Research 2008). This area also contains the Dingley Road Reserve Biosite (Table 3). The site contains a wide variety of indigenous flora species due to the range of EVCs present.

3.3.6 Other Biosites

There are a number of other Biosites surrounding the study area (Figure 1). Table 3 provides further details of each Biosite and their significance level.

3.3.7 Waterway Estate and surrounding wetlands

Waterways Estate is located beside Mordialloc Creek (Figure 1) and combines a housing development with a large area of recreated habitat for indigenous fauna and flora. The habitat includes wetlands, lakes and restored native vegetation, and is now recognised as having high conservation significance (Australian Ecosystems 2006).

Over one million plants (223 species) were planted surrounding these wetland areas as part of revegetation works undertaken by Australian Ecosystems.


Table 3: Details of Biosites that occur within 5 km of the study area (summarised from DSE 2005b).

Significance No. Name Assets Habitat Other information

National 4657 Edithvale - Carrum - Seaford Wetlands Fauna Australasian Bittern, Australasian Shoveler, Australian Painted Snipe,

Baillon's Crake, Blue-billed Duck, Cape Barren Goose, Growling Grass Frog,

Hardhead, Lewin's Rail, Long-toed Stint, Musk Duck, Pectoral Sandpiper,

Whiskered Tern, White-bellied Sea-Eagle

Wetland Formation Red-capped Plovers, Black-fronted Plovers, Black-winged Stilts, Whiskered Terns, Black

Swans, Pacific Black Ducks and Chestnut Teal breed within the wetlands complex. The

Whiskered Tern breeding population is the only breeding site east of Melbourne.

State 4656 Braeside Park Flora Large River Buttercup, Purple Diuris, Small Chocolate-lily Sand Heathland, Plains

Grassy Woodland, Plains

Grassy Wetland

Regionally threatened species include: Poa clelandii habitat: Plains Grassy Woodland; and

Amphibromus archeri, habitat: Plains Grassy Wetland. There are also 13 regionally significant

flora species present. Fauna Australasian Bittern, Australasian Shoveler, Baillon's Crake, Blue-billed

Duck, Grey-crowned Babbler, Growling Grass Frog, Hooded Plover,

Latham's Snipe, Magpie Goose, Musk Duck, Red-backed Kingfisher, Short-

beaked Echidna

4688 Board of Works - south eastern

Purification Plant

None listed Used regularly by a high diversity of waterbirds and large numbers of waterfowl (up to

5,000 have been reported at one time). It is a breeding site for the Blue-billed Duck, Red-

kneed Dotterel and Black-winged Stilt. Other rare species include: Freckled Duck and Aus.

Bittern. 27 species of waders have been recorded, but these are rare visitors and usually

recorded infrequently (e.g. Black-tailed Godwit, Whimbrel, Little Curlew and Marsh

Sandpiper). Regular summer migrants include: Sharp-tailed Sandpiper, Red-necked Stint,

Curlew Sandpiper, Greenshank and Latham's Snipe. There is also a high diversity of Crakes

and Rails and terrestrial birds (e.g. Southern Boobook, Red-rumped Parrot).

Regional 5241 Woodlands Golf Club, Mordialloc Flora Pointed Swamp Wallaby-grass, River Swamp Wallaby-grass Plains Grassy Woodland,

Plains Grassy Wetland

15 regionally significant flora species present.

Fauna Grey-crowned Babbler

4653 Olivers Hill to Mordialloc Pier (coastline) Flora Coast Fescue, Upright Panic Coast Banksia Woodland,

Coastal Dune Scrub

Large number of regionally significant plant species, many with large populations. Over 100

bird species have been recorded Habitat Details at this site.

Fauna Australasian Bittern, Australasian Gannet, Australasian Shoveler,

Australian Fur Seal, Baillon's Crake, Black-faced Cormorant, Double-

banded Plover, Humpback Whale, Southern Giant-Petrel, Southern

Right Whale, Spotless Crake

5089 Sandringham Foreshore (Bay Road to

Warrigal Road)

Flora Black Roly-poly Coast Banksia Woodland,

Coastal Dune Scrub

11 regionally significant flora species (e.g. Acacia retinodes, Allocasuarina verticillata,

Calocephalus brownii, Hypoxis hygrometrica and Poa poiformis).

Fauna Australian Fur Seal, Glossy Ibis, Grey-crowned Babbler, Humpback

Whale, Pied Cormorant, White-bellied Sea-Eagle, Yellow-bellied

Sheathtail Bat

5238 Dingley Road Reserve, Dingley Village None listed Plains Grassy Woodland,


FFG-listed Herb-rich Plains Grassy Wetland. Regionally threatened flora include: Isoetes

drummondii, Schoenus latelaminatus, Triglochin alcockiae and Amphibromus archeri.

5243 Epsom Park Estate, Mordialloc Flora Basalt Tussock-grass, Purple Blown-grass Plains Grassy Woodland,


Regionally threatened flora include: Lomandra nana, Brachyscome ? parvula var. parvula,

Plantago aff. gaudichaudii (Swamps). 15 regionally significant flora species also present.

5246 Sandown Racecourse None listed Plains Grassy Woodland,


14 regionally significant flora species present.


As part of the extensive revegetation works, a number of significant species were planted including the following EPBC-listed species (Australian Ecosystems 2006):

• Matted Flax-lily Dianella amoena

• Swamp Everlasting Xerochrysum palustre

• River Swamp Wallaby-grass Amphibromus fluitans.

The following state significant species were also planted:

• Purple Blown-grass Lachnagrostis punicea subsp. filifolia

• Grey Billy-buttons Craspedia canens

• Plains Yam-daisy Microseris sp. 1

• Woolly Water-lily Philydrum lanuginosum

• Pale Swamp Everlasting Coronidium scorpioides aff. rutidolepis (Lowland Swamps)

• Pale-flower Cranesbill Geranium sp. 3

• Leafy Twig-sedge Cladium procerum

• Feather-leaf Buttercup Ranunculus amplus.

It is possible that some of these species are now established and self-propagating within the study area.

3.4 Targeted survey for Growling Grass Frog

No Growling Grass Frogs were recorded as part of our surveys. Non-threatened frog species recorded in the various waterbodies included Striped Marsh Frog Limnodynastes peronii, Spotted Marsh Frog L. tasmaniensis, Common Froglet Crinia signifera, Southern Brown Tree Frog Litoria ewingii and, unusually, two populations of the introduced Eastern Sedge Frog Litoria fallax (observed at Braeside Park in Wetland 14, Figure 3). This species is not native to Victoria, but has become established in the Moorabbin area following either inadvertent or deliberate introduction (Gillespie and Clemann 2000).

The wetlands assessed at Waterways Estate display habitat features that are typical of sites occupied by Growling Grass Frog. This is not surprising given that they were vegetated to provide high quality habitat for this species. Wetland 8, 9, 11 and 12 (Figure 3) had abundant fringing and emergent vegetation and a high cover of floating and submerged vegetation. However, introduced fish species (Carp, Eastern Gambusia) were abundant in these wetlands, which compromise their value as Growling Grass Frog habitat. Wetlands 6 and 7 north of Governor Road (Figure 3) also supported apparently high quality habitat but here too fish were present in large numbers. A Latham's Snipe was flushed from this wetland.

Not detecting Growling Grass Frogs at Waterways Estate and in nearby wetlands is consistent with other recent surveys (e.g. Ecology Partners 2009). There is now mounting evidence that the translocated population failed to establish itself and that the species is now locally extinct. If a population does exist in the area, then the population is not likely to be large. Despite not detecting the species it is possible that a small population persists at the Waterways Estate as the habitat in the area is still apparently suitable for the species although less so due to the predatory fish above.


3.5 Targeted threatened waterbird and migratory shorebird survey

Wetlands surveyed for threatened waterbirds and migratory shorebirds are shown in Figures 4a–f. Wetlands which were considered to provide suitable habitat but were dry at the time of assessment were not surveyed. Of the wetlands surveyed, those in Waterways Estate were clearly the most important for waterbirds, being permanent and supporting a diverse and structurally complex range of vegetation and aquatic habitats. These include dense fringing vegetation, reed beds, shallow marshes, deep water zones and muddy shorelines. Habitats for threatened waterbird groups and migratory shorebirds are shown in Figures 4a–f. It should be noted that this mapping was based on water levels and habitat distribution in the wetlands at the time of assessment. As water levels are likely to rise and fall both seasonally and between years, the extent and distribution of these habitats will vary over time.

Bird species recorded at each wetland surveyed and their numbers are summarised in Table A3.2 in Appendix 3. A total of 71 species was observed across all sites. Threatened waterbirds observed include ducks such as Hardhead, Australasian Shoveler, Musk Duck and Magpie Goose. Other threatened species observed include Eastern Great Egret and Royal Spoonbill. All of the threatened waterbirds observed during the current assessment are widespread in the local area and there is extensive habitat for all these species at the nearby Eastern Treatment Plant and Edithvale-Seaford Wetlands. Near-threatened species observed include Pied Cormorant and Magpie Goose (very rare and localised on the Gippsland Plain). Although not observed during the current surveys, Waterways Estate has records of a number of additional threatened waterbirds (VBA 2013, Appendix 3). We did not observe any Australasian or Little Bitterns in any wetlands although Australasian Bittern has been recorded there (Damien Cook, pers. comm.).

The only migratory shorebird observed was Latham's Snipe, which was observed in low numbers at Wetlands 4B and 6C (Figure 4). Habitat for this species is widespread in the local area and all wetlands surveyed support suitable habitat. Suitable habitat occurs both inside and outside the NMPFE alignment (Figure 4a–f). Ephemeral wetlands (Plains Grassy Wetlands) are widespread within the alignment and, when inundated during spring and summer, are also expected to provide habitat for Latham's Snipe.

Clearly, the system of wetlands at Waterways Estate provides high quality habitat for a range of waterbirds, not just threatened species. The use of these wetlands by some species, particularly shorebirds, is undoubtedly influenced by the nearby Edithvale-Seaford Wetlands and the Eastern Treatment Plant, which both support large numbers of these birds.

The Waterways Estate is not considered to be of international or national significance to any species of shorebird, although a number of species have been recorded there including Latham's Snipe, Common Greenshank, Terek Sandpiper, Sharp-tailed Sandpiper, Red-necked Stint and Curlew Sandpiper (Damien Cook, pers. comm.). Other migratory shorebirds that could use the wetlands in Waterways Estate include Wood Sandpiper and Common Sandpiper, which have been recorded at the Edithvale- Seaford Wetlands (VBA). While small numbers of migratory shorebirds have been recorded using Waterways Estate, there are no records of significant numbers using these wetlands. This is in contrast to the nearby Edithvale-Seaford Wetlands and the Eastern Treatment Plant, which regularly support significant shorebird numbers and a greater diversity of species (VBA).

Overall, construction of the NMPFE is likely to have a low-moderate impact on threatened waterbirds and migratory shorebirds. The proposed alignment directly impacts a relatively small proportion of the wetland habitat available within the local area, and extensive areas of suitable habitat remain outside the alignment (Figure 4).

The ephemeral wetlands within the alignment are not likely to support significant numbers of threatened ducks (which prefer larger, permanent wetlands), but they might provide seasonally inundated foraging habitat for egrets, spoonbills and crakes and rails.

In isolation, each wetland within the alignment is not likely to provide habitat for a significant number of any migratory shorebird species. However, in their totality, the wetlands in the alignment are considered likely to support an ecologically significant number of Latham's Snipe as defined under the EPBC Act.


3.6 Significant species and ecological communities

3.6.1 EPBC Act, FFG Act & DSE Advisory listed species

Figure 5 shows the location of significant flora species recorded in the local area and Figure 6 shows the location of significant fauna species.

Lists of significant species recorded or predicted to occur within 5 km of the study area or from the relevant catchment (aquatic species) are provided in Appendix 2 (flora) and Appendix 3 (fauna). An assessment of the likelihood of these species occurring in the study area and an indication of where within the site (i.e. which habitats or features of relevance to the species) is included. A summary of those species recorded or with a medium or higher likelihood of occurring in the study area is provided in Table 4.

Table 4: Summary of significant species most likely to occur in the study area

Species name Area of value within the study area

EPBC Act listed species

River Swamp Wallaby-grass May occur in remnant areas of Plains Grassy Wetland. Species has also been planted within Waterways Estate.

Swamp Everlasting and Matted Flax-lily These species were planted within Waterways Estate and may now be present elsewhere within the study area.

Migratory shorebirds, particularly Latham's Snipe Waterways Estate and remnant wetlands.

Growling Grass Frog Waterways Estate Wetlands (all waterbodies), translocated (introduced) population may now be extinct.

Dwarf Galaxias Mordialloc Creek and wetlands.

Yarra Pygmy Perch Mordialloc Creek and wetlands.

FFG Act / DSE Advisory List species

A variety of flora species planted within Waterways Estate (see Section 3.2.6 and Appendix 2)

These species were planted within Waterways Estate and may now be present elsewhere within the study area.

Golden Cowslips (orchid) Remnant Plains Grassy Woodland or associated vegetation.

A variety of shorebird species Waterways Estate and remnant wetlands.

A variety of threatened waterbirds Waterways Estate and remnant wetlands.

Australian Mudfish Ephemeral drainage lines and wetlands.

Caddisfly Mordialloc Creek and ephemeral drainage lines.


3.6.2 Significant ecological communities

Two significant ecological communities occur within the study area (Figure 7). Table A4.1 indicates which habitat zones are representative of each community.

Seasonal Herbaceous Wetlands (Freshwater) of the Temperate Lowland Plains (EPBC-listed)

This Community was listed under the EPBC Act in 2012. The community occurs on the lowland plains of south-eastern South Australia, Victoria and southern New South Wales.

The vegetation is described as:

generally treeless and dominated by a herbaceous ground layer, often with a considerable graminoid component. The herbaceous species present are characteristic of wetter sites and most of them are typically absent or uncommon in any adjoining dryland grasslands and woodlands (DSEWPaC 2012).

Areas of this community identified during this assessment contained graminoid species such as Brown-back Wallaby-grass and Common Swamp Wallaby-grass, rushes such as Gold Rush and often a significant cover of Common Spike Sedge. Cover of forbs was limited to a few species such as Prickfoot and Lesser Joyweed.

The current survey took place following a brief intense dry period in south-east Australia. As a result this community was not expected to contain the full suite of herbaceous species that characterise the community. Species commonly present in this community such as Streaked Arrow-grass Triglochin striata and Kidney Weed Dichondra repens are typically absent during dry periods but re-establish quickly following substantial rains.

A number of wetland areas had been heavily grazed or recently mown/slashed at the time of assessment. It was therefore not possible to make a determination whether they met the quality and size thresholds necessary to be the community. These areas were determined to be 'potential' examples of the community (Table 4.1 and Figure 7).

Herb-rich Plains Grassy Wetland (West Gippsland) Community (Threatened under FFG Act)

This community consists of ephemeral wetlands mainly confined to heavy clay soils in the Cranbourne–Lyndhurst region (NRE 2000). The structure of this community varies from woodland to low open-forest or from grassland or sedgeland (NRE 2000). This community has been recorded in Dingley Village area within the study area (NRE 2000) and along the Mordialloc Creek immediately west of the study area (Biosis 2013).

Each of the Plains Grassy Wetland patches identified within the study area is considered to be representative of this community.

3.7 Cinnamon Fungus

Cinnamon Fungus Phytophthora cinnamomi is an introduced water-borne fungus that attacks the root systems of susceptible native plants thereby threatening some plant species, the ecosystems of which they form part of, and the animals that depend on them (DSE 2008). The pathogen is widely dispersed within Victoria and there is as yet no means of eradicating it in the field.

There are currently no records of Cinnamon Fungus in the study area however there are records further south on the Mornington Peninsula (E. Fogarty pers. comm.). DSE has identified a high risk of biodiversity loss from Cinnamon Fungus to the east of the study area based on a distribution model that is currently under development (E. Fogarty pers. comm.).

‘Dieback caused by the root-rot fungus Phytophthora cinnamomi’ was listed on 16 July 2000 as a Key Threatening Process under Section 183 of the EPBC Act. This formal recognition has led to nationally coordinated efforts to curb its impact.


There are also two Potentially Threatening Processes listed under the FFG Act related to Cinnamon Fungus:

• 'The spread of Phytophthora cinnamomi from infected sites into parks and reserves, including roadsides, under the control of a state or local government authority'.

• 'Use of Phytophthora-infected gravel in construction of roads, bridges and reservoirs'.

A strategy for management of Cinnamon Fungus on public land was prepared by DSE (2008) with the primary focus on protecting important biodiversity and other assets on public land.

Soil testing should be undertaken to determine the presence of Cinnamon Fungus within the study area prior to construction.

3.8 Phylloxera

Phylloxera Daktulosphaira vitifoliae is an aphid-like insect which is native to eastern North America and feeds exclusively on grape vines. Phylloxera is spread by vine planting material, soil, machinery, people, vehicles and grapes moving from infested to non-infested vineyards. There is currently no method of eradication therefore the main management focus is prevention of its spread to other parts of Victoria.

The study area occurs within the Phylloxera Risk Zone and the nearest Phylloxera Infested Zone is Maroondah approximately 37 km north-east of the study area.

3.9 Acid sulfate soils

Acid sulfate soils occur naturally in coastal and inland settings. These soils contain metal sulphide minerals, which, if drained, excavated or exposed to air, can react with oxygen and water to form sulphuric acid (DSE 2010). Acid sulfate soil disturbance has environmental, health, engineering, social and economic impacts (DSE 2010). The Department of Primary Industries consider the study area and surrounds to be a 'Prospective' site for Coastal acid sulfate soils (Rampant et al. 2003). In 2010 the Victorian Best Practice Guidelines for Assessing and Managing Coastal Acid Sulfate Soils was released (DSE 2010). The Guidelines assist decision makers to identify the risks associated with acid sulfate soils, site investigation requirements and considerations for an appropriate management plan. Soil testing should be undertaken to determine the potential for acid sulfate soils within the study area prior to construction.

3.10 Further survey recommendations

We recommend a number of additional ecological surveys are undertaken to further inform the assessment of the feasibility of the project. Each the surveys will improve knowledge regarding potential ecological constraints within the study area. The following additional surveys are recommended (in order of priority):

1. Targeted survey for significant fish species, including Yarra Pygmy Perch, Dwarf Galaxias and Australian Mudfish, in the Waterways Estate wetlands, Mordialloc Creek and other unnamed tributaries. Surveys can be undertaken any time of year however the optimal time is summer-autumn. Opportunistic drip netting for Caddisfly would also be undertaken during these surveys. Yarra Pygmy Perch and Dwarf Galaxias are Matters of National Environmental Significance.


2. Targeted survey for the following significant flora in areas of suitable habitat within the study area (flowering period shown in brackets):

Plains Grassy Wetland:

– River-swamp Wallaby Grass (April–August)

– Pale Swamp Everlasting (October–January)

– Grey Billy-buttons (September–December)

– Plains Yam Daisy (July–November)

– Purple Blown-grass (September–December)

All Habitat Zones within Waterways Estate:

– Swamp Everlasting (November–February)

– Annual Fireweed (November–February)

Aquatic Sedgeland within Waterways Estate:

– Woolly Waterlily (December–April)

– Lacey River Buttercup (September–February)

Plains Grassland and Plains Grassy Woodland within Waterways Estate:

– Matted Flax-lily (October – February)

– Pale-Flower Crane's-bill (September–January)

Targeted searches could be undertaken in November 2013 depending on seasonal conditions. The presence of these species within the study area may be of state or national significance.

We also recommend that a hydrological assessment of the potential for the project to impact on the Edithvale-Seaford Ramsar Site is undertaken as a high priority. The Ramsar Site is a Matter of National Environmental Significance.

Finally, we recommend the following additional tasks are undertaken within the study area prior to construction toinform road design and to minimise impacts:

• Soil testing for Cinnamon Fungus.

• Assessment of the likelihood of acid sulfate soils.


4. Biodiversity Legislation and Government Policy

This section provides an assessment of the project against key biodiversity legislation and government policy. Where available, links to further information are provided. This section does not describe the legislation and policy in detail and guidance provided here does not constitute legal advice.

The northern part of the study area overlaps with the Dingley Bypass corridor. The approvals process is underway for Dingley Bypass therefore the discussion below is focussed on the southern part of the study area only.

4.1 Commonwealth

4.1.1 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

The EPBC Act applies to developments and associated activities that have the potential to significantly impact on Matters of National Environmental Significance protected under the Act. Link for further information including a guide to the referral process is available at: http://www.environment.gov.au/epbc/index.html

Matters of National Environmental Significance relevant to the project are summarised in Table 5. It includes an assessment against the EPBC Act policy statements published by the Australian Government which provide guidance on the practical application of the EPBC Act. Two Key Threatening Processes listed under the EPBC Act have particular relevance to the project:

• Dieback caused by the root-rot fungus (Phytophthora cinnamomi).

• Land Clearance.

A detailed hydrological study should be undertaken to determine what, if any, impacts are likely to the Edithvale-Seaford Ramsar site as a result of the construction of the NMPFE. In addition, further survey is required to determine the presence/extent of the EPBC-listed flora and fish species.

On the basis of potential for significant impacts on MNES, the EPBC Act is likely to be triggered and referral of the proposed action to the Australian Government Minister for the Environment is recommended.

4.2 State

4.2.2 Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 (FFG Act)

The FFG Act is the key piece of Victorian legislation for the conservation of threatened species and communities and for the management of potentially threatening processes. Under the FFG Act a permit is required from DSE to 'take' protected flora species from public land. A permit is generally not required for removal of protected flora from private land. Authorisation under the FFG Act is required to collect, kill, injure or disturb listed fish.

Link for further information: http://www.dse.vic.gov.au/plants-and-animals/native-plants-and-animals/threatened-species-and-communities/flora-and-fauna-guarantee-act

Some of the native vegetation within the study area is a listed threatened community, or is likely to contain protected flora species, listed threatened species or habitat for them.

The majority of the study area occurs on public land. Areas that are currently private land would be acquired as part of the planning process. A protected flora permit from DSE would be required if any of these FFG-listed species, communities or protected flora will be affected by the proposal.


Table 5: Assessment of the project against the EPBC Act

Matter of National Environmental Significance

Project specifics Assessment against Guidelines

Threatened species and ecological communities

Numerous species have been recorded or predicted to occur in the project search area. The likelihood of these species occurring in the study area is assessed in Appendix 2 (flora) and Appendix 3 (fauna). The potential presence of a population of Growling Grass Frogs in the Waterways Estate is of particular relevance to this project. Despite a number of targeted surveys, the species has not been recorded since 2006 and may now be locally extinct. Seasonal Herbaceous Wetlands (Freshwater) of the Temperate Lowland Plains community occurs within the study area.

The project has the potential to remove / alter / modify habitat that, at least historically, supported a population of Growling Grass Frog. The matter should therefore be referred under the EPBC Act as part of the project approvals process. It is likely that impacts to the wetland community may constitute a significant impact due to increased fragmentation of the community. Impacts on other threatened flora and fish species can not be assessed against the significant impact guidelines until further assessments are undertaken.

Migratory species

Numerous migratory species have been recorded or predicted to occur in the project search area. However, the wetlands within the study area are only likely to support small numbers of the majority of migratory species. The exception is Latham's Snipe, for which collectively all wetlands in and near the affected area are likely to provide habitat for an ecologically significant number of birds.

Small numbers of one migratory shorebird, Latham's Snipe, was recorded during the targeted surveys. Several individuals were observed within two wetlands adjacent to the NMPFE alignment. Habitat for this species is widespread in the local area and is extensive within the Waterways Estate wetlands, the Melbourne Water wetlands to west of Waterways Estate and in various smaller wetlands (farm dams, ephemeral grassy wetlands) within and adjacent to the affected area. Collectively, the wetlands affected by the alignment are likely to support an ecologically significant number of Latham's Snipe as defined under the EPBC Act. Therefore, an EPBC referral is recommended on the basis of impacts to migratory species.

Wetlands of international importance (Ramsar sites)

The study area is identified as being within the catchment of two Ramsar sites: Edithvale-Seaford Wetlands and Western Port. The project area does not drain into Western Port Ramsar site. However, the project area is within 1 km of the Edithvale-Seaford Wetlands and indirect hydrological impacts to these wetlands may occur as a result of construction of the road.

A hydrological investigation should be commissioned to determine what, if any impact is likely on the nearby Edithvale-Seaford Wetlands as a result of the construction of the NMPFE and associated infrastructure. If the hydrological investigation indicates that there may be impacts to the Ramsar site then a referral is recommended.


The following Potentially Threatening Processes listed under the FFG Act are relevant to the project:

• Alteration to the natural flow regimes of rivers and streams.

• Habitat fragmentation as a threatening process for fauna in Victoria.

• Increase in sediment input into Victorian rivers and streams due to human activities.

• Prevention of passage of aquatic biota as a result of the presence of in-stream structures.

• The spread of Phytophthora cinnamomi from infected sites into parks and reserves, including roadsides, under the control of a state or local government authority.

• Use of Phytophthora-infected gravel in construction of roads, bridges and reservoirs.

• Wetland loss and degradation as a result of change in water regime, dredging, draining, filling and grazing.

4.2.3 Environment Effects Act 1978

The Environment Effects Act 1978 establishes a process to assess the environmental impacts of a project. If applicable, the Act requires that an Environment Effects Statement (EES) be prepared by the proponent. The EES is submitted to the Minister for Planning and enables them to assess the potential environmental effects of the proposed development.

The general objective of the assessment process is to provide for the transparent, integrated and timely assessment of the environmental effects of projects capable of having a significant effect on the environment (DSE, 2006).

The Ministerial Guidelines for Assessment of Environmental Effects under the Act (DSE, 2006a) provide a range of criteria that can be used to determine whether an EES may be required for a project. These criteria relate to individual potential environmental effects and a combination of (two or more) potential environmental effects.

An assessment of the project against the individual potential effects criteria is provided in Table 6.

However, the guidelines are not binding, and the decision as to whether an EES is required is ultimately at the discretion of the Minister for Planning.

4.2.4 Planning and Environment Act 1987 (incl. Planning Schemes)

The Planning and Environment Act 1987 controls the planning and development of land in Victoria, and provides for the development of planning schemes for all municipalities. As part of the planning process regard needs to be given to Action Statements that have been produced under the FFG Act.

Of particular relevance to the development proposed are controls over the removal of native vegetation contained within the Kingston Planning Scheme, including permit requirements. The Planning Scheme defines ‘native vegetation’ as 'Plants that are indigenous to Victoria, including trees, shrubs, herbs and grasses' (Clause 72).

Clause 12.01-2 of the State Planning Policy Framework Clause 12.01-2 (Native Vegetation Management) requires that a net gain in the extent and quality of native vegetation is achieved and planning must consider as relevant Victoria’s Native Vegetation Management – a Framework for Action. An assessment of the proposed development in relation to the Framework would be required prior to the construction of the NMPFE.

Clause 52.17 (Native Vegetation) requires a planning permit to remove, destroy or lop native vegetation including dead native vegetation. Decision guidelines are contained in Clause 52.17-5.


Table 6: Assessment of the project against the individual potential environmental effects referral criteria of the Environment Effects Act 1978

Referral criteria Referral criteria met?

Comments

Potential clearing of 10 ha or more of native vegetation from an area that:

- is of an EVC classified as Endangered within the Bioregion

- is, or is likely to be, of Very High Conservation Significance; and,

- is not authorised under an approved Forest Management Plan or Fire Protection Plan.

No Less than 10 ha of native vegetation to be cleared. The construction

corridor will result in the removal of 6.47 ha of vegetation of Very High

conservation significance (NB. Quantity of vegetation assessed in

this report does not include the Dingley Bypass portion of the study

area).

Potential long-term loss of a significant proportion of known remaining habitat or population of a threatened species within Victoria

Unlikely While the proposal will result in the removal of or modification to habitat for a number of threatened species,

the amount of habitat lost and/or indirectly affected is not likely to be a

significant proportion of known remaining habitat for any species.

Potential long-term change to the ecological character of a wetland listed under the Ramsar Convention or in 'A Directory of Important Wetlands in Australia' (Environment Australia, 2001).

Potential A hydrological investigation should be commissioned to determine what, if

any impact is likely on the nearby Edithvale-Seaford Wetlands as a result of the construction of the

NMPFE and associated infrastructure. If the hydrological investigation

indicates that there may be impacts to the Ramsar site then the need for

an EES referral is likely to be required.

Potential extensive or major effects on the health or biodiversity of aquatic, estuarine or marine ecosystems, over the long term.

Potential See above for wetlands listed under the Ramsar Convention.

Potential extensive or major effects on the health, safety or well-being of a human community, due to emissions to air or water or chemical hazards or displacement of residences.

Not applicable to this report

The assessment of this criterion is beyond the scope of this report.

Potential greenhouse gas emissions exceeding 200,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent per annum, directly attributable to the operation of the facility.

Not applicable to this report

The assessment of this criterion is beyond the scope of this report.


Clause 66.02 vegetation removal thresholds are likely to be triggered (>0.5 ha of endangered, vulnerable or rare vegetation types or >1.0 ha of a depleted or least concern vegetation type / >5 trees of greater than 40 cm DBH OR >15 trees of less than 40 cm DBH) and thus DSE will be a mandatory referral authority.

Different sections of the study area occur within the following zones according to the Kingston Planning Scheme:

• RDZ1 = Road Zone 1

• GWZ1= Green Wedge Zone 1

• PUZ1 = Public Use Zone 1

• R3Z = Residential 3 Zone

• IN1Z = Industrial Zone 1

• UFZ = Urban Flood Zone.

The study area is covered by a number of design, development and public acquisition overlays not specifically relevant to biodiversity under the Kingston Planning Scheme.

Advice from a town planner should be sought in relation to the potential need for changes to the Kingston Planning Scheme.

The Waterways Estate and surrounds is covered by Design and Development Overlay – Schedule 6 which is titled 'Kingston Lodge Site'. The design objectives of this Schedule include:

• To ensure that the development of land is based on ecologically sustainable design principles.

• To employ best practice design techniques for environmental residential living, with particular emphasis on:

– resource conversation

– waste management

– enhancement of landscape values

– fauna habitat protection and creation generally consistent with maintenance of a high standard of community amenity and having special regard for the proximity of areas set aside for floodplain management, wetland based water treatment and passive recreation.

• To conserve and enhance landscape character supportive of the development and maintenance of indigenous flora and fauna habitats, and consistent with the purposes of each reserve and the amenity of nearby urban residential precincts.

Consideration of all overlays is required to receive planning approvals from City of Kingston.

4.2.5 Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994 (CaLP Act)

The CaLP Act identifies and classifies certain species as noxious weeds or pest animals, and provides a system of controls on noxious species.

The proponent must take all reasonable steps to eradicate regionally prohibited weeds, prevent the growth and spread of regionally controlled weeds, and prevent the spread of and as far as possible eradicate established pest animals. The State is responsible for eradicating state prohibited weeds from all land in Victoria.

Link for further information: http://www.nwc.gov.au/www/html/2100-catchment-and-land-protection-act-1994.asp


4.2.6 Native Vegetation Management Framework

The Framework provides State Government policy (referred to as the Net Gain policy) for the protection, enhancement and revegetation of native vegetation in Victoria (DNRE 2002) and is an incorporated document in all planning schemes.

Link for further information: http://www.dse.vic.gov.au/land-management/victorias-native-vegetation-management-a-framework-for-action

The development seeks to remove native vegetation and as such an application would need to be made under clause 52.17 of the Kingston Planning Scheme to remove, destroy or lop native vegetation as part of the project approvals process.

Within the application VicRoads must explain (Clause 52.17-3) the steps that have been taken to:

• Avoid the removal of native vegetation, where possible.

• Minimise the removal of native vegetation through appropriate consideration in project design and management.

• Appropriately offset the loss of native vegetation, if required.

This flora and fauna assessment establishes the extent, distribution and quality of native vegetation within the study area. An assessment against Victoria’s Net Gain policy is included in Section 5.

4.2.7 Fisheries Act 1995

The Fisheries Act 1995 provides a legislative frame work for the regulation, management and conservation of Victorian fisheries including aquatic habitats.

A person must not take, injure, damage, destroy or release any protected aquatic biota. Protected aquatic biota includes all species of the family Syngnathidae (seahorses, sea dragons and pipefish), and any fish or aquatic invertebrate or community that is listed under the FFG Act.

Protected aquatic biota that may be impacted upon by the development include:

• Dwarf Galaxias

• Yarra Pygmy Perch

• Australian Mudfish

• Caddisfly Plectrotarsus gravenhorstii.

The potential for protected aquatic biota as listed above to be injured, damaged or destroyed cannot be completely avoided. Where there may be impacts to FFG-listed fish or communities, an FFG permit is required from DSE.

The FFG permit could absolve the need for a Protected Aquatic Biota Permit from the Department of Primary Industries (DPI). For Syngnathids or FFG-listed aquatic invertebrates that do not meet the definition of fish, a Protected Aquatic Biota Permit is required from DPI.

4.2.8 Water Act 1989

The primary purpose of the Water Act 1989 is to provide a framework for the allocation and management of surface water and groundwater throughout Victoria. It provides a principal mechanism for maintenance of ecosystem functions including those of aquatic ecosystems. Under By-Laws created by the relevant Authority under the Act, the authorities regulate the works within and in the vicinity of waterways. In Melbourne Water's management area this applies to all waterways with a catchment area of 60 ha or more. These waterways are deemed to be Melbourne Water assets, while all smaller watercourses are deemed the responsibility of the local government.


The proposed development will involve construction and future maintenance activities that will affect beds and banks of waterways, riparian vegetation or quality or quantity of water in Mordialloc Creek, artificial wetlands, and ephemeral drainage lines.

Development within the study area will require a permit from Melbourne Water.

For developments within Melbourne Water's management area that entail the provision of new drainage infrastructure (e.g. residential or industrial subdivisions), approval for works on waterways is covered under the Agreement process set out in the Land Development Manual. http://ldm.melbournewater.com.au/content/introduction/introduction.asp.

4.2.9 Environment Protection Act 1970: State Environmental Protection Policy (Waters of Victoria) 2003

The Environment Protection Act underpins the State Environmental Protection Policy (SEPP) – Waters of Victoria which provides a legal framework for the protection and rehabilitation of Victoria’s surface water environments.

The project may directly and/or indirectly impact upon Mordialloc Creek and the associated aquatic ecosystems. The SEPP requires that aquatic ecosystem values be protected. Environmental quality objectives and indicators are defined to protect beneficial uses (i.e. the uses and values of the water environment) and an attainment program provides guidance on protection of the beneficial uses. VicRoads is required to ensure that direct and indirect (e.g. runoff) impacts to surface water quality do not exceed the background levels and/or water quality objectives.

Link to further information: http://www.epa.vic.gov.au/water/epa/wov.asp.


5. Victoria’s Native Vegetation Management Framework (Net Gain)

The Framework is state government policy providing the strategic direction for the protection, enhancements and revegetation of native vegetation within Victoria (DNRE 2002). It forms part of the State Policy Planning Framework. The Framework’s primary goal is to achieve ‘a reversal across the entire landscape, of the long-term decline in the extent and quality of native vegetation, leading to a Net Gain’.

The approach for applying the three-step approach of Net Gain to the current proposal is described in this section. Impacts to native vegetation will not be able to be avoided if the project is approved. In order to determine appropriate offsets the quality and extent of native vegetation within the study area must be quantified.

5.1 Quantifying native vegetation on site

Native vegetation within the study area was mapped (Figure 2) and assessed in relation to Net Gain policy according to standard methods provided by DSE (2004). Vegetation quality of identified patches was assessed using the DSE Vegetation Quality Assessment Sheet (DSE 2004) and pre-determined EVC benchmarks: http://www.dse.vic.gov.au/conservation-and-environment/ecological-vegetation-class-evc-benchmarks-by-bioregion.

Indigenous canopy trees were mapped and their diameter at breast height (DBH) measured as follows:

• Within patches – all trees that are benchmark size and greater are termed Large Old Trees (LOTs) and assessed (DNRE 2002).

• Scattered trees outside patches – Small Trees, Medium Old Trees (MOTs), Large Old Trees (LOTs) and Very Large Old Trees (VLOTs) are assessed (DSE 2007).

Areas of uniform quality for each EVC within the patches are termed ‘habitat zones’ and assessed separately.

All remaining areas that are not EVC patches or scattered remnant canopy trees are termed Degraded Treeless Vegetation (DSE 2007b).

5.1.1 Patches of native vegetation

Each habitat zone is assessed in terms of habitat hectares and number of LOTs. Smaller trees are not considered separately as their presence is incorporated into the assessment of habitat hectares.

A total of 61 habitat zones is identified (Figure 2). The results of the vegetation quality assessment are provided in Appendix 4 (Table A4.1). Each habitat zone is assigned an overall habitat score, which is multiplied by its area to provide the number of habitat hectares. The conservation significance of each zone is also shown at the bottom of Table 4 and this is discussed further in the following section. Default habitat scores were assigned for a number of wetland habitat zones which were dry or had been heavily grazed at the time of assessment (see Table A4:1). Default habitat score can be used as follows:

In circumstances where a once-off field assessment is not an accurate representation of the characteristics of the site (for example during a declared drought or in the dry phase of a wetland, following fire, flooding, slashing or unusually intense grazing) the default habitat score should be used (DSE 2007).


Conservation significance for threatened species

Part of the assessment of conservation significance for Net Gain involves consideration of the value of habitat for threatened species in Victoria. Only species listed as threatened or rare under the DSE Advisory lists (DSE 2005a, 2007a) are considered in this process. The term 'threatened' is used to describe species that are classified as vulnerable, endangered or critically endangered. Species classified as data deficient or near threatened are not considered to be 'threatened' (DSE 2007a). The term 'rare' has application for flora species only (DSE 2005a).

Threatened or rare flora and threatened fauna species listed under DSE Advisory Lists that have been recorded or have at least medium likelihood of occurrence within the study area are considered in the assessment of conservation significance provided they have potential to occur in areas of remnant vegetation that have been mapped and assessed.

The value of each habitat zone for each species is assessed against DSE’s criteria (DSE 2007b, page 13). The pathway for each decision made (in accordance with DSE’s Table 2) is outlined in Table 7 below.

Table 7: Determination of best/remaining habitat for rare or threatened species.

Species Conservation Status

Habitat zone Steps* Outcome Conservation Significance (threatened

species rating)

Notes

Flora

River Swamp Wallaby-grass, Pale Swamp Everlasting, Grey Billy-buttons, Purple Blown-grass, Plains Yam-daisy

Threatened High quality Plains Grassy Wetland HZs: 38a, 39a, 40a

A, D, F Best 50% of habitat

Very High These HZs represent above-average condition and

landscape context in the bioregion

All other Plains Grassy Wetland HZs and Sedge

Wetland HZ

A, D, F Remaining 50% of habitat

High These HZs do not represent above-

average condition and landscape context in

the bioregion

All other HZs A,D No further consideration

NA No suitable habitat

Swamp Everlasting, Annual Fireweed

Threatened All HZs within Waterways

Estate: 45a-h, 46a-b, 47a-b,

48a, 49a

A,D,F Remaining 50% of habitat

High These HZs are revegetation and do not represent above-


the bioregion



Leafy Twig-Sedge

Threatened Aquatic Sedgeland

A,B,E,F Remaining 50% of

High These HZs are revegetation and do




species rating)

Notes

HZs: 45d,45e, 46a

habitat not represent above-average condition and landscape context in

the bioregion

Other Aquatic Sedgeland

HZs:45h, 47a


High These HZs are revegetation and do not represent above-


the bioregion



Woolly Waterlily, Lacey River Buttercup

Threatened Aquatic Sedgeland

HZs: 45d,45e,45h,

46a, 47a


Medium These HZs are revegetation and do not represent above-


the bioregion



Matted Flax-lily, Pale-flower Crane's-bill

Threatened 45g, 48a A,D,F Remaining 50% of habitat

These HZs are revegetation and do not represent above-


the bioregion



Fauna

Freckled Duck Threatened All HZs A,D No further consideration

NA Species not likely to make significant use of any HZs in study

area

Australasian Shoveler, Hardhead, Musk Duck, Blue-billed Duck

Threatened All Tall Marsh, Aquatic

Sedgeland and Sedge Wetland

HZs within Waterways

A,B,C Remaining 50% of habitat

High The populations within Waterways

Estate are not above average size or

importance in the bioregion




species rating)

Notes

Estate


NA These species are not likely to make

significant use of the remaining HZs

Intermediate Egret, Eastern Great Egret

Threatened All Tall Marsh, Aquatic

Sedgeland Sedge Wetland

and Swamp Scrub HZs

within Waterways

Estate

A,B,E,F Best 50% of habitat

Very High Waterways Estate wetlands provide high

quality habitat for these egret species

Swamp Scrub may be used for roosting.

All remaining HZs

A,D No further consideration

NA Unlikely to make significant use of the wetland HZs outside Waterways Estate; other non-wetland

HZs unsuitable

Little Egret Threatened All wetland HZs in

Waterways Estate

A,D,F Best 50% of habitat

Very High Waterways Estate wetlands provide high quality habitat for this egret species. Swamp Scrub may be used for

roosting.


NA Habitat unsuitable

Australasian Bittern, Little Bittern

Threatened All wetland HZs in

Waterways Estate



quality habitat for Australasian Bittern

and Little Bittern

Lewin's Rail, Threatened All wetland HZs in

Waterways Estate

A,D,F Best 50% of habitat


quality habitat for Lewin's Rail

All remaining wetland HZs


NA Unlikely to make significant use of

remaining wetland




species rating)

Notes

HZs

Australian Painted Snipe, Common Sandpiper, Pectoral Sandpiper, Wood Sandpiper

Threatened All wetland HZs


NA Unlikely to make significant use of any

wetland HZs

All remaining HZs


NA Non-wetland HZs unsuitable

Baillon's Crake Threatened All Tall Marsh, Aquatic

Sedgeland and Sedge Wetland

HZs within Waterways

Estate



quality habitat for Baillon's Crake

Remaining wetland HZs


High HZs do not represent above average condition and

landscape context for this species in the

bioregion

All non-wetland HZs


NA Non-wetland HZs unsuitable

Black Falcon Threatened All HZs A,D No further consideration

NA Unlikely to make significant use of any

HZs; vagrant

Growling Grass Frog

Threatened All wetland HZs in

Waterways Estate

A,B,E,F Remaining 50% of habitat



bioregion

All remaining wetland HZs


NA Species unlikely to occur outside

Waterways Estate

Non-wetland HZs


NA Unlikely to make significant use of non-

wetland HZs.




species rating)

Notes

Southern Toadlet

Threatened All Plains Grassy

Wetland HZs and Creekline

Grassy Woodland

HZ3A




bioregion

All remaining HZs


NA Unlikely to make significant use of the non-wetland EVCs in

the study area

Dwarf Galaxias Threatened All wetland HZs connected to floodplain

A, D, F Remaining 50 % of habitat



bioregion

Non-wetland HZs

A, D No further consideration

N/A Unlikely to make significant use of non-

wetland HZs.

Yarra Pygmy-perch

Threatened All wetland HZs


N/A Species not expected to utilize site within the medium term

Non-wetland HZs


N/A Unlikely to make significant use of non-

wetland HZs.

Australian Mudfish

Threatened All online wetland HZs

and Mordialloc Creek

A, D, F Remaining 50 % of habitat



bioregion

Non-wetland HZs


N/a Unlikely to make significant use of non-

wetland HZs. * Steps taken to determine best or remaining 50 % of habitat. From Table 2 in the Guide for Assessment of Referred Planning Permit Applications (DSE 2007b). HZ = Habitat Zone

The overall threatened species rating for each habitat zone is determined by the highest threatened species rating scored for any one species. This result is included in Table A4.1.


Summary

A summary of the area of remnant patch vegetation and habitat hectares present within the study area is provided in Table 8. The study area contains 9.42 hectares of native vegetation, which comprises 2.51 Hha. The habitat score for the habitat zones ranges from 0.11 to 0.45. Habitat zones 38a, 39a and 40a represent the most intact areas of native vegetation. The vegetation ranges from High to Very High conservation significance.

A total of 20 Large Old Trees occur within the habitat zones (see Table 4). Raw data is presented in Appendix 4.

Table 8: Summary of habitat hectare results

EVC High Very High

Area (ha) Habitat hectares (Hha) Area (ha) Habitat hectares (Hha)

Aquatic Sedgeland 0 0 0.16 0.05

Creekline Grassy Woodland 0.40 0.10 0 0

Plains Grassy Wetland 1.37 0.26 4.98 1.31

Plains Grassy Woodland 0.72 0.20 0.05 0.02

Sedge Wetland 0.00 0 0.63 0.19

Plains Grassland 0 0 0.03 0.01

Swamp Scrub 0.27 0.08 0.57 0.24

Tall Marsh 0.19 0.05 0.05 0.01

Total 2.95 0.68 6.47 1.83

5.1.2 Scattered Trees

Outside patches of native vegetation (previous section) the following locally indigenous canopy trees are present:

• 8 Large Old Trees

• 6 Medium Old Trees

• 21 small trees.

Raw data for scattered trees is presented in Appendix 4.

Standing dead native trees of 40 centimetres DBH or greater are included in these numbers as they are not exempt from the provisions of Section 52.17 of the Victoria Planning Provisions and are subject to Net Gain policy.

Conservation significance

Scattered Old Trees (Medium to Very Large) are assigned the lowest conservation significance category appropriate to the EVC to which they originally belonged, unless there are threatened species or other attributes that increase their rating (DSE 2007b p11). As remnants of Plains Grassy Woodland, the scattered trees within the study area have High conservation significance.

Scattered small trees within the study area are assigned a conservation significance of ‘low’ (DSE 2007b p.11).


6. Implications for the Project

On the basis of current knowledge of the site, there is no ecological issue that is likely to prevent the project from proceeding. There is however a range of ecological constraints which require further consideration (see Section 3.9). The results of the recommended surveys will assist VicRoads to make an informed decision regarding the feasibility of the project and may also assist with the approvals process if the project proceeds. The results of these assessments can also assist with avoidance and minimisation of impacts during the design phase if VicRoads decide to proceed with the project.

There are also further works that should be undertaken as part of the pre-construction and approvals process including assessments of the presence of Cinnamon Fungus and acid sulfate soils.

If the project does proceed, the primary measure to reduce impacts to biodiversity values within the study area is to minimise removal of native vegetation and terrestrial and aquatic habitat. The results of this assessment and the further surveys recommended should therefore be incorporated into the project design, by adding the flora and fauna mapping information into the planning maps and investigating options to retain as much of the mapped vegetation/habitats as possible. Priority should be given to highest value areas and retaining larger areas in preference to numerous smaller ones.

The design phase is also the time during which future requirements for infrastructure and services must be forecast and allowance made outside any nominated reserves for all construction works. All areas of vegetation/habitat nominated in the design plan as 'retained' are to be treated as no-go zones and are not to be encroached upon as development progresses.

Some examples of suitable mitigation measures for the project if it was to proceed include:

• Identify and implement appropriate offsets for vegetation losses.

• Place any storm water treatment/retention wetlands adjacent to waterways and not online (Wong et al 2000).

• Protect key values (including waterways) by retaining features and including appropriate buffers into design.

• Retain fauna habitat linkages within the development and local area.

• Design waterway crossings (including temporary crossings) in accordance with relevant Melbourne Water guidelines in accordance with guidelines for fish friendly waterway crossings (Witheridge 2002, Fairfull & Witheridge 2003).

Construction and post-construction management

Specific detail relating to the prevention of impacts to retained native vegetation and aquatic and terrestrial habitat should be addressed in a site-specific Construction Environmental Management Plan. This will include issues relating to contractors such as environmental inductions, installation of temporary fencing/signage, drainage and sediment control.

An Ecological Management Plan should be prepared by an ecological consultant to provide detailed advice on the ongoing protection and long-term management of retained vegetation/ habitat, creation of linkages and other habitat features such as wetlands, if proposed.


References ARI 2007. A survey for relocated Growling Grass Frogs Litoria raniformis at the Waterways Estate. Report prepared by the Arthur Rylah Institute for Melbourne Water.

ARI 2008. A second survey for relocated Growling Grass Frogs Litoria raniformis at the Waterways Estate. Report prepared by the Arthur Rylah Institute for Melbourne Water.

Australian Ecosystems 2006. The Waterways Fact Sheet. Pamphlet produced for public information.

Australian Ecosystems 2010. Eastern Treatment Plant Flora and Fauna Assessment and Land Management Recommendations. Authors: Report prepared by A. Backstrom, K. Jolly, D. Osler and N. Witherow. Report prepared for Melbourne Water.

Biosis 2013. Review of flora and fauna report on proposed Mordialloc Creek wetlands, Braeside. Author: Jeff Yugovic. Report prepared for City of Kingston.

Biosis Research 2008. Preliminary ecological assessment of 12 kilometres of proposed roadway between the South Gippsland Freeway and Warrigal Road. Authors: N. Schnittler, M. Venosta and C. Bloink. Report prepared for Southern and Eastern Integrated Transport Network.

Birds Australia 2011. Edithvale and Seaford Wetlands Bird Survey Project 2010-11. Authors: A. Silcocks and J. O’Connor. Report prepared for Melbourne Water.

BLA 2012. Dingley Corridor – Warrigal Road to Westall Road Habitat Hectare and Net Gain Assessment. Authors: J. Sullivan, B. Wallach and R. Omodei. Report prepared by Brett Lane and Associates for VicRoads.

Carter, M. 2010. Monthly bird monitoring records for Melbourne Water’s Eastern Treatment Plant, Bangholme: E.T.P. Boggy Creek Wetland, E.T.P. PARCS Wetland, E.T.P. Boundary Road, Banyan Waterhole. Eastern Treatment Plant Unpublished records held by Melbourne Water.

DNRE 2002. Victoria's Native Vegetation Management: A Framework for Action. Department of Natural Resources & Environment, Victoria.

Donelley, A., Kunert, C., and P Schleiger 1985. Ecology and Management of Seaford Swamp. Environment Report No. 25. Report prepared by Monash University.

DPI 2003. Acid sulfate soil hazard maps. Guidelines for coastal Victoria. Department of Primary Industries, Melbourne.

DSE 2005a. Advisory List of Rare or Threatened Plants in Victoria - 2005, Victorian Department of Sustainability & Environment, East Melbourne, Victoria.

DSE 2005b. Biosites Maps and Reports, Port Phillip Region (CD). Department of Sustainability & Environment, Melbourne.

DSE 2006. Ministerial guidelines for assessment of environmental effects under the Environment Effects Act 1978. Department of Sustainability & Environment, Melbourne.

DSE 2007. Advisory List of the Threatened Vertebrate Fauna in Victoria - 2007, Department of Sustainability & Environment, East Melbourne, Victoria.

DSE 2010a. Victorian best practice guidelines for assessing and managing coastal acid sulfate soil. Department of Sustainability and Environment, Melbourne.


DSE 2010b. Victorian Biodiversity Atlas ‘VBA_FAUNA25, FAUNA100 & FAUNARestricted, FLORA25, FLORA100 & FLORARestricted’ August 2010 © The State of Victoria, Department of Sustainability & Environment.

DSEWPaC 2012. Advice to the Minister for Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities from the Threatened Species Scientific Committee (the Committee) on an amendment to the list of Threatened Ecological Communities Under the EPBC Act. Prepared by the Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities, Canberra.

Ecology Partners 2009. Targeted surveys for Growling Grass Frog Litoria raniformis and significant waterbird species, Bowen Road Extension, Waterways Victoria. Authors: A. Organ, D. Weller and Z. Senbergs. Report prepared for City of Kingston.

Fairfull, S and Witheridge, G. 2003. Why do Fish Need to Cross the Road? Fish Passage Requirements for Waterway Crossings. NSW Fisheries, Cronulla.

NRE 2000. Draft Action Statement: Herb-rich Plains Grassy Wetland (West Gippsland) Community. Natural Resources and Environment, Melbourne.

Sudbury, A and Carter, M. 2012. A summary of bird numbers at the Eastern Treatment Plant from June 1998 to April 2011. (Draft 2, 13 Oct. 2012). Report prepared for Melbourne Water.

Wong T., Breen P., & Lloyd S. 2000. Water Sensitive Road Design – Design Options for Improving Stormwater Quality of Road Runoff. Technical Report 00/1. Cooperative Research Centre for Catchment Hydrology.

Witheridge, G. 2002. Fish Passage Requirements for Waterway Crossings – Engineering Guidelines Version 1. Catchments and Creeks.


Appendices


Appendix 1: Reports reviewed during report preparation

ARI 2007. A survey for relocated Growling Grass Frogs Litoria raniformis at the Waterways Estate. Report prepared by the Arthur Rylah Institute for Melbourne Water.

ARI 2008. A second survey for relocated Growling Grass Frogs Litoria raniformis at the Waterways Estate. Report prepared by the Arthur Rylah Institute for Melbourne Water.

Australian Ecosystems 2006. The Waterways Fact Sheet. Pamphlet produced for public information.

Australian Ecosystems 2010. Eastern Treatment Plant Flora and Fauna Assessment and Land Management Recommendations. Authors: Report prepared by Ana Backstrom, Karen Jolly, Dylan Osler and Nicholas Witherow. Report prepared for Melbourne Water.

Australian Ecosystems 2011. Eastern Treatment Plant Precinct Biodiversity Conservation Strategy 2nd Draft. Report prepared for Melbourne Water.

Biosis 2008. Kingston Greenwedge Ecological Evaluation. Authors: Steve Mueck, Victorian Allen, Chris Bloink and Sally Koehler. Report prepared for Worley Parsons.

Biosis 2008. Preliminary ecological assessment of 12 kilometres of proposed roadway between the South Gippsland Freeway and Warrigal Road. Authors: Nicky Schnittler, Mark Venosta and Chris Bloink. Report prepared for Southern and Eastern Integrated Transport Network.

Biosis 2013. Review of flora and fauna report on proposed Mordialloc Creek wetlands, Braeside. Author: Jeff Yugovic. Report prepared for City of Kingston.

Birds Australia 2004. Bird habitat values at the Edithvale and Seaford Wetlands. Authors: C. Tzaros and A.Silcocks. Report prepared for Melbourne Water.

Birds Australia 2011. Edithvale and Seaford Wetlands Bird Survey Project 2010-11. Authors: Andrew Silcocks and James O’Connor. Report prepared for Melbourne Water.

BLA 2009. Proposed Modrialloc Creek Wetlands, Braeside: Flora and Fauna Assessment. Report prepared by Brett Lane and Associates for Melbourne Water.

BLA 2010. Dingley Corridor – Warrigal Road to Westall Road Flora and Fauna Assessment. Authors: Justin Sullivan, Teisha Sloane and Alan Brennan. Report prepared for VicRoads.

BLA 2010. Mordialloc Creek Wetland, Lot 4 Govenor Road, Braeside, Victoria . EPBC Act Referral of proposed action. Authors: Brett Lane and Associates. Prepared on behalf of Melbourne Water.

BLA 2011a. Dingley Corridor – Warrigal Road to Westall Road Southern Toadlet Targeted Survey. Authors: Teisha Sloane and K. Al-Dabbagh. Report prepared by Brett Lane & Associates for VicRoads.

BLA 2011b. Dingley Corridor – Warrigal Road to Westall Road Growling Grass Frog Targeted Survey. Authors: Gabrielle Roy. Report prepared by Brett Lane and Associates for VicRoads.

BLA 2011c. Dingley Corridor – Warrigal Road to Westall Road Southern Brown Bandicoot Targeted Survey. Authors: Teisha Sloane. Report prepared by Brett Lane and Associates for VicRoads.

BLA 2012. Dingley Corridor – Warrigal Road to Westall Road Habitat Hectare and Net Gain Assessment. Authors: Justin Sullivan, Bill Wallach and Rachel Omodei. Report prepared by Brett Lane and Associates for VicRoads.

Donelley, A., Kunert, C., and P Schleiger 1985. Ecology and Management of Seaford Swamp. Environment Report No. 25. Report prepared by Monash University.


DSE 2008. Victoria’s Public Land Phytophthora cinnamomi Management Strategy. Department of Sustainability and Environment, Melbourne.

DVWAC 1992. Draft Mordialloc Creek Environment Strategy and Opportunities report. Report prepared by the Dandenong Valley Waterways Advisory Committee

Ecological Horticulture 1985. Vegetation of Braeside Metropolitan Park, Braeside, Victoria, and its Management. Authors: G. Carr and R.Robinson.

Ecology Australia 2000. Edithvale – Seaford Wetlands Ramsar Management Plan. Authors: B. A. Lane, M. R. Bezutjen, C. K. Orscheg, J. A Todd and G. W. Carr. Report prepared for Melbourne Water.

Ecology Partners 2008. Ecological and Cultural Review of the proposed Perry Road Drainage Scheme, Keysborough South, Victoria. Authors: Andrew J Hill, Aaron Organ and Vincent Clark. Report prepared for Melbourne Water.

Ecology Partners 2009. Targeted surveys for Growling Grass Frog Litoria raniformis and significant waterbird species, Bowen Road Extension, Waterways Victoria. Authors: A.Organ, D.Weller and Z. Senbergs. Report prepared for City of Kingston.

EHP 2008. Ecological and cultural review of the proposed Perry Road Drainage Scheme, Keysborough South, Victoria. Report prepared by Ecology and Heritage Partners for Melbourne Water.

EHP 2011. Flora and habitat hectare assessment for a proposed pipeline installation along Perry Road, Keysborough. Authors: M. Freestone and M. Bellette. Report prepared by Ecology and Heritage Partners for Australand.

KBR 2009. Proposed tertiary filtration Plant, Eastern Treatment Plant, Bangholme: Flora and fauna review and implications for development. Report prepared by Kellog Brown and Root for Black & Veatch Australia.

McGuckin, J 2007. Investigation of aquatic fauna in an Eastern Treatment Plant wetland. Report prepared for Melbourne Water.

Melbourne Water 2006. A report of Mordialloc Creek: Past, present and future. Author: Sarah Jacobs.

Parks Victoria 2004. Fauna of Braeside Park. Unpublished report.

Parks Victoria 2012. Braeside Park Conservation Objectives. Internal report prepared by Parks Victoria.

PB 2010. Level 2 Targeted Microbat Survey Eastern Treatment Plant and Edithvale Seaford Wetlands. Authors: Chad Browning and Rob Gration. Report prepared for Melbourne Water.

RAOU 1999. Birds of the Edithvale Wetlands Census Project. Report No. 19 September 1998 to February 1999. Author: Royal Australasian Ornithologist Union VicGroup. Report prepared for Melbourne Water.

Streamline Research 2006. A fish survey of the Mordialloc and Kananook Creek catchments. Author: John McGuckin. Report prepared for Melbourne Water.

Streamline Research 2007. Investigation of aquatic fauna in an Eastern Treatment Plant wetland. Author: John McGuckin. Report prepared for Melbourne Water.

Sudbury, A and Carter, M. 2012. A summary of bird numbers at the Eastern Treatment Plant from June 1998 to April 2011. (Draft 2, 13 Oct. 2012). Report prepared for Melbourne Water.

Thompson Berrill Landscape Design 2005. Edithvale-Seaford Wetlands Revegetation Prescriptions. Report prepared for Melbourne Water and Frankston City Council.


Appendix 2: Flora

Notes to table:

EPBC Act: CR - Critically Endangered EN - Endangered VU - Vulnerable

DSE Advisory List (DSE 2005a): e - endangered v - vulnerable r - rare

FFG Act: L - listed as threatened under FFG Act P - protected under the FFG Act (public land only)


A2.1 Significant flora species The following table includes a list of the significant flora species that have potential to occur within the study area. The list of species is sourced from the Victorian Biodiversity Atlas and the Protected Matters Search Tool.

Table A2.1. Significant flora species recorded / predicted to occur within 5 km of the study area.

Scientific name Common name Conservation Status Most recent database

record

Habitat description Likely occurrence in Study Area

Rationale for likelihood ranking

EPBC DSE FFG

National Significance

Amphibromus fluitans River Swamp Wallaby-grass VU 1993 Swampy areas, mainly along the Murray River between Wodonga and Echuca with scattered records from southern Victoria.

Medium There are nearby records of the species at Parkdale and Chelsea and there is suitable swampy habitat in the study area. This species has been planted within the Waterways Estate.

Caladenia robinsonii Frankston Spider-orchid EN e L 1911 Coastal heathy woodland; only confirmed population is near Rosebud.

Negligible Species has not been recorded within or surrounding the study area since 1911.

Dianella amoena Matted Flax-lily EN e L Lowland grassland and grassy woodland, on well-drained to seasonally waterlogged fertile sandy loam soils to heavy cracking clays.

Medium This species has been planted within the Waterways Estate. It is possible that this species is now naturalised within the study area.

Euphrasia collina subsp. muelleri Purple Eyebright EN e L 1900 Grasslands and grassy woodlands; few populations are known to still exist.


Glycine latrobeana Clover Glycine VU v L Most common in grasslands dominated by Themeda triandra and grassy woodlands.

Negligible This species has not been recorded within 5 km of the study area.

Prasophyllum frenchii Maroon Leek-orchid EN e L Grassland and grassy woodland environments on sandy or black clay loam soils that are generally damp but well drained.

Low This species has not been recorded within 5 km of the study area.

Thelymitra epipactoides Metallic Sun-orchid EN e L 1905 Moist or dry sandy loams or loamy sands, primarily in coastal heaths, grasslands and woodlands, but also in similar communities at drier inland sites.


Thesium australe Austral Toad-flax VU v L 1913 Most commonly in damp grassland and woodland, including subalpine grassy heathlands.


Xerochrysum palustre Swamp Everlasting VU v L 2005 Sedge-swamps and shallow freshwater marshes and swamps in lowlands, on black cracking clay soils.

Medium This species has been planted within the study area along Mordialloc Creek and the Waterways Estate. It is possible that this species is now naturalised within the study area.

State Significant

Austrostipa rudis subsp. australis Veined Spear-grass r 1985 Cooler areas of moderate altitude, in open-forest on sandy or sandstone derived soils.

Low Species has not been recorded within or surrounding the study area since 1985.

Burnettia cuneata Lizard Orchid r 1887 Usually on acidic, low-nutrient soils which are frequently waterlogged and dominated by Melaleuca squarrosa.

Negligible Species has not been recorded within or surrounding the study area for over 100 years.

Caladenia oenochila Wine-lipped Spider-orchid v 1916 Foothill forest and heathy woodland in low hills. Negligible Species has not been recorded within or surrounding



record



EPBC DSE FFG

the study area since 1916.

Caladenia venusta Large White Spider-orchid r 1941 Heath and heathy woodlands primarily in coastal areas, extending inland in western Victoria.


Callitriche umbonata Winged Water-starwort r 1910 Damp, periodically waterlogged sites or shallow freshwater ponds.


Cladium procerum Leafy Twig-sedge r Waterlogged soils, often along slow-flowing streams and lake margins.

Recorded This species has been planted within Waterways Estate.

Coronidium scorpioides 'aff. rutidolepis (Lowland Swamp)

Pale Swamp Everlasting v 1999 The habitat requirements of this species are poorly known, however, its affinity with C. scorpioides may indicate a preference for moist sites in open-forest and woodland.

Medium This species has been recorded nearby in the Parkdale-Mordialloc area and there is suitable swampy habitat in the study area. This species has been planted within the Waterways Estate.

Correa alba var. pannosa Velvet White Correa r 1904 Calcareous sands and coastal cliffs; likely to be extinct from the Port Phillip region.


Corunastylis pumila Green Midge-orchid r 1911 Heath and heathy woodlands east of the Otway Ranges. Negligible Species has not been recorded within or surrounding the study area since 1911.

Corybas fimbriatus Fringed Helmet-orchid r 1900 Damp, shady locations within coastal scrub, heath, heathy woodland and lowland forest.


Craspedia canens Grey Billy-buttons e L 1991 Low altitude grasslands between Cranbourne and Traralgon. Medium Nearest record near Carrum Downs. This species has been planted within the Waterways Estate.

Diuris behrii Golden Cowslips v 1916 Grasslands, open grassy woodlands and Box Ironbark Forests.

Negligible Species has not been recorded within or surrounding the study area since 1916. However, there is some suitable habitat within the study area.

Diuris punctata var. punctata Purple Diuris v L 1998 Fertile, loamy soils and periodically wet areas in lowland grasslands, grassy woodlands, heathy woodlands and open heathlands.

Low This species has been recorded within Braeside Park, adjacent to the study area. The species is however very sensitive to disturbance and is therefore unlikely to occur throughout much of the study area.

Geranium solanderi var. solanderi s.s. Austral Crane's-bill v 1900 Grasslands or grassy woodlands where hydrology is not a limiting factor.


Geranium sp. 3 Pale-flower Crane's-bill r 2007 Grasslands and dry woodlands. Medium There is a record of this species near the study area along Mordialloc Creek. It is likely that this species was planted as part of revegetation works for the Waterways Estate. It is possible that the species is now naturalised in the study area.

Lachnagrostis punicea subsp. filifolia Purple Blown-grass r L 1999 Wet marshes and slightly saline swamps and depressions, on heavy soils away from the coast.

High This species has been recorded nearby in the Parkdale-Mordialloc area and there is suitable swampy habitat in the study area. This species has also been planted within the Waterways Estate.

Microseris scapigera s.s. Plains Yam-daisy v Damp depressions in grasslands, woodlands, stream banks, Medium This species has been planted within Waterways



record



EPBC DSE FFG

alpine herbfields and around the margins of saline lakes and flats.

Estate. It is possible that this species is now naturalised within the study area.

Philydrum lanuginosum Woolly Waterlily v 2007 Shallow, freshwater swamps; likely to be extinct in the areas recorded for Melbourne pre-1900.

High There is a record of this species near the study area along Mordialloc Creek. It is likely that this species was planted as part of revegetation works for the Waterways Estate. It is possible that the species is now naturalised in the study area.

Pterostylis pedoglossa Prawn Greenhood v 1934 Heath and heathy woodland near the coast. Negligible Species has not been recorded within or surrounding the study area since 1934.

Pterostylis X toveyana Mentone Greenhood v 1916 Coastal scrub and moist areas of open-forest. Negligible Species has not been recorded within or surrounding the study area since 1916.

Ranunculus amplus Lacey River Buttercup r 2005 Shallow margins of freshwater swamps, billabongs and dams.

High There is a record of this species near the study area along Mordialloc Creek. It is likely that this species was planted as part of revegetation works for the Waterways Estate. It is possible that the species is now naturalised in the study area.

Salsola tragus subsp. pontica Coast Saltwort r 1938 Saline, coastal environments. Negligible Species has not been recorded within or surrounding the study area since 1938.

Senecio glomeratus subsp. longifructus Annual Fireweed r 2007 Areas adjacent to streams and swamps, including saline flats. Medium There is a record of this species near the study area along Mordialloc Creek and the Waterways Estate. It is likely that this species was planted as part of revegetation works for the Waterways Estate. It is possible that the species is now naturalised in the study area.


Appendix 3: Fauna

Notes to table:

EPBC Act:

EX - Extinct

CR - Critically Endangered

EN - Endangered

VU - Vulnerable

CD - Conservation dependent

Mi – Migratory species

DSE Advisory List (DSE 2013):

ex - extinct

cr - critically endangered

en - endangered

vu - vulnerable

nt - near threatened

dd - data deficient

rx - regionally extinct

* - introduced species

** - pest species listed under the CaLP Act

FFG Act:

L - listed as threatened under FFG Act

Fauna species in these tables are listed in alphabetical order within their taxonomic group.


A3.1 Significant fauna species The following table includes a list of the significant fauna species that have potential to occur within the study area. The list of species is sourced from the Victorian Biodiversity Atlas and the Protected Matters Search Tool (DSEWPaC; accessed on 02.11.12).

Table A3.1 Significant fauna species recorded, or predicted to occur, within 5 km of the study area.

Scientific name Common name Conservation Status

Most recent database record



EPBC DSE FFG

Birds

Accipiter novaehollandiae Grey Goshawk vu L 1990 Favours tall, wet forests in gullies but can occur in woodlands, dry forests, wooded farmlands and suburban parks. Relies on mature forests for breeding.

Low Individuals may occasionally visit remnant woodland and isolated trees in study area. Unlikely to support resident birds.

Actitis hypoleucos Common Sandpiper vu 2012 Migrates to Australia from Eurasia in August where it inhabits a wide variety of coastal and inland wetlands with muddy margins before departing north in March.

Medium Small numbers may use wetlands within the Waterways Estate.

Anas rhynchotis Australasian Shoveler vu 2012 Prefers large, permanent lakes and swamps with deep water, stable conditions and abundant aquatic vegetation. Less commonly recorded in small or shallow waters, such as billabongs, sewage ponds, freshwater rivers and densely vegetated farm dams. Forages in open water but nests in densely vegetated freshwater wetlands, where fringing vegetation may be an important habitat feature.

Recorded Recorded in Waterways Estate (D. Cook, pers. comm.). Could occur in any large waterbody in or adjacent to the study area.

Anseranas semipalmata Magpie Goose nt L 2012 Uses aquatic and terrestrial habitat, although most activity occurs on wetlands such as those associated with flood plains. Historically occurring in south-eastern Australia, however, loss of wetland habitats meant the species became extinct in Victoria in the early 1900s. Re-introduction attempts have had mixed results.

Recorded Recorded in Waterways Estate (D. Cook, pers. comm.). Could occur in any large waterbody in or adjacent to the study area.

Anthochaera phrygia Regent Honeyeater EN cr L 1976 Inhabits dry woodlands and forests dominated by Box Ironbark eucalypts. Distribution currently restricted to the Chiltern - Mt Pilot National Park in north-eastern Victoria following severe range contraction and population decline.

Negligible Functionally extinct in Southern Victoria.

Ardea intermedia Intermediate Egret cr L 2012 Breeds in flooded or fringing trees alongside wetlands. Recorded Recorded in Waterways Estate (D. Cook, pers. comm.). Could potentially occur in any wetland in or adjacent to the study area.

Ardea modesta Eastern Great Egret vu L 2012 Usually found in terrestrial wetland, estuarine and wet grassland habitats particularly permanent well-vegetated water bodies but also use freshwater meadows, channels and larger dams. Forages by wading on shallow open water, generally avoiding dry or deeply flooded areas preferring moist, low-lying, poorly drained pasture, especially near hollows and ditches and where tussocks of long grass are present. Uses estuarine mudflats as summer-autumn or drought refuges.

Recorded Recorded in Waterways Estate (D. Cook, pers. comm.). Could potentially occur in any wetland in or adjacent to the study area.






EPBC DSE FFG

Aythya australis Hardhead vu 2012 A mainly aquatic species preferring large, deep freshwater environments with abundant aquatic vegetation, including slow moving areas of rivers. Also occurs in brackish wetlands and can be found in deep dams and water storage ponds. Occasionally in estuarine and littoral habitats such as saltpans, coastal lagoons and sheltered inshore waters. Avoids main streams or rivers, except in calm reaches where aquatic flora is developed.

Recorded Recorded in Waterways Estate (D. Cook, pers. comm; this study). Could potentially occur in any large waterbody in or adjacent to the study area.

Biziura lobata Musk Duck vu 2012 A largely aquatic species preferring deep water on large, permanent swamps, lakes and estuaries with abundant aquatic vegetation. Often occurs in areas of dense vegetated cover within a wetland. Less commonly recorded in small or shallow waters, such as billabongs, sewage ponds, freshwater rivers and densely vegetated farm dams.

Recorded Recorded in Waterways Estate (D. Cook, pers. comm.). Could potentially occur in any large waterbody in or adjacent to the study area.

Botaurus poiciloptilus Australasian Bittern EN en L 2011 Occurs in wetlands with tall, dense vegetation where it forages in shallow water at the edges of pools or waterways. Prefers permanent freshwater habitats, particularly when dominated by sedges, rushes and reeds.

Recorded Recorded in Waterways Estate (D. Cook, pers. comm.). Could potentially occur in any large waterbody in or adjacent to the study area.

Burhinus grallarius Bush Stone-curlew en L 2009 This species generally occurs in grassland habitats. Individuals usually shelter amongst tall grass or low shrubs during the day and hunt for small grassland animals at night. The species is mostly restricted to low rainfall areas in the north central and western regions of Victoria.

Low Functionally extinct in Southern Victoria.

Calidris alba Sanderling nt 2010 Summer migrants to Victoria, with some non-breeding individuals remaining over winter. The species is typically found on sandy beaches and foraging among piles of seaweed.

Low Wetlands in and adjacent to study area generally unsuitable.

Calidris canutus Red Knot nt 2009 This non-breeding migrant typically occurs on intertidal mudflats, sandflats and sandy beaches of sheltered coasts, and a range of other coastal and near-coastal environments such as lakes, lagoons, pools and pans, and recorded on sewage ponds and saltworks; inland lakes and swamps are less commonly used.

Low Wetlands in and adjacent to study area generally unsuitable.

Calidris melanotos Pectoral Sandpiper nt 2012 Occurs in a variety of wetland habitats with fringing mudflats including bays, coastal lagoons, lakes, swamps, creeks, inundated grasslands, saltmarshes and artificial wetlands. Mostly recorded from Port Phillip Bay and Murray River Valley region.

Medium Potential wetland habitat occurs in Waterways Estate.

Calidris subminuta Long-toed Stint nt 2008 Occurs on a variety of terrestrial freshwater or brackish wetlands such as lakes, swamps, river floodplains, streams, lagoons, sewage ponds and reservoirs. The species is commonly observed on muddy fringes of drying ephemeral lakes and swamps. It is less commonly found on tidal

Medium Potential wetland habitat occurs in Waterways Estate and several other wetlands adjacent to the study area.






EPBC DSE FFG

estuaries, saline lakes, saltponds and bore swamps.

Cereopsis novaehollandiae

Cape Barren Goose nt 2012 Mostly breeds on offshore Victorian islands with immature birds dispersing to mainland areas to feed though have been increasingly observed across mainland areas. Mainly terrestrial, they graze on short green herbage including grass, pasture and crops.

High Small numbers may occasionally use wetlands in and adjacent to study area. Recorded from Eastern Treatment Plant and other sites nearby.

Chalcites osculans Black-eared Cuckoo nt 2007 Typically occupies open vegetation communities such as open eucalypt woodlands and shrublands in lower rainfall areas. In Victoria, mainly found north of the Great Dividing Range and in Western Victoria.

Medium Individuals may occasionally visit remnant woodland and isolated trees in study area.

Chlidonias hybrida Whiskered Tern nt 2012 A breeding migrant to Australia from September to March where it occurs in wetlands, lakes, swamps, rivers, and other water bodies with submerged and emergent vegetation such as grasses, sedges, reeds and rushes. Rarely recorded along rivers or creeks.

High Recorded in Waterways Estate (D. Cook, pers. comm.). Could potentially occur in any large wetland in or adjacent to the study area.

Chlidonias leucopterus White-winged Black Tern

nt 2012 A seasonal migrant that occurs in coastal, sub-coastal and terrestrial wetlands including bays, estuaries, swamps and floodplains. Majority of records in Victoria are from the Gippsland Lakes and the western shoreline of Port Phillip Bay.

High Potential wetland habitat occurs in Waterways Estate and several other wetlands adjacent to the study area.

Chthonicola sagittata Speckled Warbler vu L 1883 Occurs in open forest and Box Ironbark Woodlands, usually with scattered shrubs and a cover of acacias. Seldom seen far from dense patches of shrubs.

Negligible Locally extinct.

Circus assimilis Spotted Harrier nt 2006 Inhabits open and wooded country of inland and sub-inland Australia, where they hunt over flat or undulating country with low vegetation cover. Most common over the Murray Valley with occasional visits to coastal Victoria.

High Individuals may occasionally forage in pasture and wooded areas throughout study area.

Coturnix ypsilophora Brown Quail nt 2011 Occurs in rank grasses near wetlands, drains, pastures, crops and stubble. Also found in coastal heaths and areas with dense ground cover.

High Likely to occur in any areas supporting rank grassland. Such habitat is widespread in study area.

Diomedea epomophora s.s.

Royal Albatross VU vu L # Generally seen flying over open marine environments. Nesting occurs among sparse vegetation on flat or gently sloping ground on large islands and the summits of islets.

Negligible No suitable habitat.

Diomedea exulans Wandering Albatross EN en L # Occurs from Antarctic to subtropical areas in the southern hemisphere. In Australia, observed over continental shelves often in areas of continental upwelling. Regularly recorded feeding in sheltered harbours, often gathering at sewerage outfalls.


Egretta garzetta Little Egret en L 2012 Occupies a wide range of wetlands and typically prefers the shallows of wetlands for foraging activities. Occasionally they will forage in small waterways or wet grassland areas.







EPBC DSE FFG

Excalfactoria chinensis King Quail en L 1800 The species has a preference for wet heath environments where they feed and nest on the ground, but have also been recorded in coastal heath. The current range of this species in Victoria is not known but it is likely to be severely restricted.


Falco subniger Black Falcon vu 2010 Primarily occurs in arid and semi-arid zones in the north, north-west and west of Victoria, though can be forced into more coastal areas by droughts and subsequent food shortages. Occurs in woodlands, open country and around terrestrial wetlands areas, including rivers and creeks. Hunts mostly over open plains and undulating land with large tracts of low vegetation.

Recorded Recorded in Waterways Estate (VBA)

Gallinago hardwickii Latham's Snipe nt 2012 A migrant to Australia from July to April occurring in a wide variety of permanent and ephemeral wetlands. Prefers open freshwater wetlands with nearby cover, but also recorded on the edges of creeks and rivers, river-pools and floodplains. Forages in soft mud at edge of wetlands and roosts in a variety of vegetation around wetlands including tussock grasslands, reeds and rushes, tea-tree scrub, woodlands and forests.

Recorded Recorded in Waterways Estate (D. Cook, pers. comm.) and during current assessment. Could potentially occur in any wetland in or adjacent to the study area. Area may support an important population as defined under the EPBC Act.

Geopelia cuneata Diamond Dove nt L 2009 Is found in small flocks in grassy woodlands, semi-arid grasslands, spinifex and dry scrub areas. The species is rarely found far from water and is also known to inhabit open riparian woodlands.

Negligible Does not naturally occur in Southern Victoria. Record likely to be an aviary escapee.

Grus rubicunda Brolga vu L 2009 Prefers shallow marshland areas, usually less than 50 cm deep with emergent vegetation. Most commonly found in south-west Victoria, the Northern Plains and associated parts of the Murray River. Feeds predominantly on wetland plants, but also forages in crops and pasture.

Low Locally very rare and unlikely to be found within the study area.

Haliaeetus leucogaster White-bellied Sea-Eagle

vu L 2011 Occurs in marine habitats and terrestrial wetlands along or near coastal areas in eastern Victoria, particularly around large open wetlands such as deep freshwater swamps, lakes, reservoirs and billabongs. Uses tall trees in or near water for breeding.

Low Although this species may fly over the study area on rare occasions, it is unlikely to be resident or use the area regularly.

Halobaena caerulea Blue Petrel VU 1890 A marine species, usually pelagic but sometimes observed over shallow waters. A regular visitor to southern Australian waters.


Hydroprogne caspia Caspian Tern nt L 2012 Occurs on exposed ocean beaches or in sheltered coastal embayments including harbours, lagoons, inlets, estuaries and river deltas usually with sandy or muddy margins and breeds in a variety of coastal habitats including banks, ridges and beaches of sand and shell, often in open or among low or sparse vegetation.

Recorded Recorded in Waterways Estate (D. Cook, pers. comm.). Could potentially occur in any large wetland in or adjacent to the study area.






EPBC DSE FFG

Ixobrychus minutus dubius

Little Bittern en L 2011 Inhabits terrestrial wetlands, preferably with dense emergent vegetation.

High Waterways Estate supports high quality habitat for this species.

Larus pacificus Pacific Gull nt I 2012 Occurs along sandy and, less often, rocky coasts usually in areas protected from ocean swells, such as bays estuaries and lagoons. Breeds in a variety of coastal habitats including rocky outcrops, small hillocks, ridges, sides of cliffs and sometimes low-lying beaches. Sometimes occur up to 10 km inland, especially at rubbish tips and wetlands.


Lathamus discolor Swift Parrot EN en L 2008 Migrates to south-east mainland Australia during the winter months where it prefers dry, open eucalypt forests and woodlands, especially Box Ironbark Forest in north-central Victoria. Has also been recorded in urban parks, gardens, street trees and golf courses with flowering ornamental trees and shrubs.

Low Individuals may very occasionally visit remnant woodland and isolated trees in study area.

Leipoa ocellata Malleefowl VU en L # Malleefowl occur mainly in semi-arid mallee habitats; in Victoria this type of habitat is largely restricted to the north-west area of the State. Malleefowl are sedentary birds that establish home ranges within which they forage on the ground in leaf litter and low vegetation and nest in distinctive mounds constructed with light soil and leaf litter.

Negligible Outside natural range. No suitable habitat.

Lewinia pectoralis Lewin's Rail vu L 2011 Inhabits densely vegetated wetlands, including swamps, farm dams, saltmarshes, lakes and small pools that can range from fresh to saline water. May also use riverine forest.


Limosa limosa Black-tailed Godwit vu 1996 Primarily occurs in coastal environments such as bays, estuaries and lagoons with large intertidal mudflats or sandflats; occasionally found on rocky coasts or coral islets. Black-tailed Godwits have also been recorded in shallow and sparsely vegetated, near-coastal, wetlands; and less commonly inland in the environs of shallow, freshwater and saline lakes, swamps, dams and bore-overflows.

Low Wetlands in and adjacent to the study area unlikely to be used by this species.

Lophochroa leadbeateri Major Mitchell's Cockatoo

vu L 1979 Usually only found in the upper north-west corner of Victoria in Mallee scrubs and woodlands, particularly those dominated by Cypress Pine or Belah.

Negligible Does not naturally occur in Southern Victoria. Record likely to be an aviary escapee.

Macronectes giganteus Southern Giant-Petrel EN vu L 2011 An opportunist scavenger and predator, adults of this species are present all year round at Antarctic breeding colonies, from where immature birds disperse, some as far north as subtropical areas.


Macronectes halli Northern Giant-Petrel VU nt L 1976 Breeds in coastal habitats on sub-Antarctic islands. Dispersal movements of juveniles are poorly known but have been observed along temperate coastal areas of Australia, Africa, South America and New Zealand. Often







EPBC DSE FFG

seen around sewer outfalls or seal and penguin colonies.

Melanodryas cucullata Hooded Robin nt L 1973 Occupies a range of open woodlands including those dominated by Eucalypts, Acacias and Callitris with an understorey of smaller trees, shrubs and grasses.


Neophema chrysogaster Orange-bellied Parrot CR cr L 1977 Annual migrant to coastal Victoria from breeding grounds in south-west Tasmania, appearing from approximately March to October. Forages on coastal or near-coastal areas such as saltmarshes, coastal dunes, pastures, shrublands, estuaries, islands, beaches and moorlands.


Ninox strenua Powerful Owl vu L 1995 Prefers tall open sclerophyll forest and woodlands and requires large, hollow-bearing eucalypts for breeding. While the species has been recorded from a wide range of woodland habitats, preferred habitat typically contains a dense understorey and suitable roost trees with a dense canopy cover. The species is more commonly associated with large tracts of continuous forest, but will sometimes occur in more fragmented landscapes including suburban parklands though rarely, if ever, breed in these areas.

Low Potential rare visitor, particularly dispersing birds. Unlikely to support resident birds.

Numenius madagascariensis

Eastern Curlew nt 2001 A migratory bird arriving in Australia from Russia and China from August and departing around February. Occurs in a variety of sheltered coastal habitats including harbours, inlets and coastal lagoons, usually with large sand flats or intertidal mudflats with seagrass. Occasionally observed on coastal rock platforms.

Low Species more likely to occur in the Eastern Treatment Plant or Edithvale-Seaford Wetlands. Individuals may rarely use wetlands in Waterways Estate.

Numenius phaeopus Whimbrel vu 1977 Whimbrels are summer migrants to Victoria where they are typically found in coastal environments foraging in mudflats, sandy shores and the crevices of rock platforms. The species is rarely recorded inland.

Low Species more likely to occur in the Eastern Treatment Plant or Edithvale- Seaford Wetlands. Individuals may rarely use wetlands in Waterways Estate.

Nycticorax caledonicus hillii

Nankeen Night Heron nt 2012 Occurs in a variety of estuarine and terrestrial wetlands where it forages on the margins in shallow still or slow-moving water or exposed banks, mudflats and swamp vegetation of these environments. Also uses wet meadows and pastures, urban wetlands and ponds and preferring wetland areas with swampy fringing vegetation and nearby trees for roosting.

Recorded Recorded in Waterways Estate (D. Cook, pers. comm.). Also recorded during Growling Grass Frog surveys conducted by Biosis at a dam in the northern part of the study area . Could potentially occur in any large wetland in or adjacent to the study area.

Oxyura australis Blue-billed Duck en L 2012 A largely aquatic species preferring deep, large permanent wetlands with stable conditions and abundant aquatic vegetation, including Melaleuca swamps. Occurs less commonly on river frontages, billabongs and flooded depressions. It is a secretive bird, rarely venturing far from dense vegetative cover in wetland areas.


Pachyptila turtur Fairy Prion vu 2010 This marine waterbird can be found from sub-Antarctic to Negligible No suitable habitat.






EPBC DSE FFG

subtropical waters in the southern hemisphere, mostly occurring over continental shelves and slopes, and rarely coming close to shore except at breeding islands and during rough weather.

Pelagodroma marina White-faced Storm-Petrel

vu 1980 White-Faced Storm-Petrels have breeding colonies on Mud and South Channel Islands in Port Phillip Bay. In Victoria they feed off the coast in pelagic and inshore waters.


Pelecanoides urinatrix Common Diving-Petrel nt 1985 The Common Diving-Petrel occurs in inshore and pelagic waters off the Victorian coast and breeds on coastal islands.


Pezoporus wallicus Ground Parrot en L 1854 Mainly found in heathland, sedgeland or buttongrass plains providing medium to dense cover.

Negligible Locally extinct. No suitable habitat.

Phalacrocorax fuscescens Black-faced Cormorant nt 2008 Occurs in marine and estuarine habitats and forages over inshore waters and reefs, rarely entering small inlets or bays . Roost on islands, offshore rocks, sandbanks and jetties.


Phalacrocorax varius Pied Cormorant nt 2012 Mainly inhabits marine environments and coastal waters including beaches, coastal lagoons, estuaries and rock platforms. Also found in terrestrial wetlands with open expanses of permanent water including rivers, inland lakes and billabongs. Breeds and roosts in trees or bushes along the edges of water body, as well as on artificial structures such as pylons.

Recorded Recorded in Waterways Estate (D. Cook, pers. comm.) and during the current assessment. Could potentially occur in any large wetland in or adjacent to the study area.

Platalea regia Royal Spoonbill vu 2012 Often seen around permanent and ephemeral waters in the arid interior of east Australia foraging in shallow waters. Prefers terrestrial wetlands and wet grassland areas, particularly large expanses of water such as lakes, swamps or lagoons. Also utilises rivers for its feeding activities and has regularly been recorded in coastal habitats such as estuaries, inlets and intertidal mudflats.

Recorded Recorded in Waterways Estate (D. Cook, pers. comm.) and during the current assessment. Could potentially occur in any wetland in or adjacent to the study area.

Plegadis falcinellus Glossy Ibis nt 2012 Glossy Ibis are usually found foraging in wet pasture environments and low lying wetland areas. This species is only rarely recorded in Victoria. Prefers freshwater wetlands especially permanent or ephemeral water bodies on floodplains, but also found in sheltered coastal environments.

High Small numbers could potentially occur in any wetland in or adjacent to the study area and particularly Waterways Estate.

Pluvialis fulva Pacific Golden Plover nt 2005 A migratory shorebird that usually occurs in small flocks and occupies a range of coastal habitats including mudflats, sandflats rocky shores and saltmarsh.

Low Habitat generally unsuitable.

Pluvialis squatarola Grey Plover nt 1977 Summer migrant to Australia, habitat includes mudflats, slatmarsh, tidal reefs and estuaries.


Polytelis anthopeplus Regent Parrot VU vu L 2008 In southeast Australia they are found in riparian or littoral River Red Gum Eucalyptus camaldulensis forests and

Negligible Out of range. Aviary escapee.






EPBC DSE FFG

adjacent Black Box E. largiflorens woodlands, and in nearby open mallee woodland or shrubland.

Pomatostomus temporalis

Grey-crowned Babbler en L 2002 Typically occupies open forests and woodlands north of the Great Dividing Range including dry forests and woodlands, acacia scrub, wooded farmlands and roadside trees. Occurs in breeding groups that seldom remain in southern areas of Victoria.


Porzana pusilla Baillon's Crake vu L 2012 Occurs in a variety of densely vegetated terrestrial and coastal wetlands including billabongs, swamps, creeks and rivers, including freshwater, brackish and saline environments. Occasionally recorded in grassed or vegetated areas (parks, gardens, golf courses) and marine environments (saltmarshes, coastal dunes and mudflats).

Recorded Recorded in Waterways Estate (D. Cook, pers. comm.). Could potentially occur in any wetland in or adjacent to the study area.

Rostratula australis Australian Painted Snipe

VU cr L 2012 Generally found in shallow, terrestrial freshwater wetlands with rank, emergent tussocks of grass, sedges and rushes. Australian Painted Snipe can occur in well vegetated lakes, swamps, inundated pasture, saltmarsh and dams.

Medium Small numbers may occasionally use shallow, well-vegetated wetlands in and adjacent to study area (e.g. Waterways Estate). Irruptive species.

Stagonopleura guttata Diamond Firetail vu L 1990 Occurs mostly in the lowlands and foothills in the north of Victoria. It has specific habitat requirements, which include grassy woodlands with tree cover for refuge and an undisturbed ground layer with grasses.


Sterna striata White-fronted Tern nt 2010 Regular migrant from March to October, where it can be found in Victoria's offshore waters, bays, reefs and Islands.


Sternula albifrons Little Tern vu L 1975 This bird is mostly recorded in sheltered coastal environments, including bays, lagoons and estuaries. Nests on sandy substrates containing much shell-grit, which provides good camouflage for their eggs.

Negligible Habitat unsuitable.

Sternula nereis Fairy Tern VU en L 1975 Fairy Terns inhabit coastal environments including intertidal mudflats, sand flats and beaches. Nests above high-water mark on sandy shell-grit beaches.

Negligible Habitat unsuitable.

Stictonetta naevosa Freckled Duck en L 2012 Freckled Ducks are usually found on densely vegetated freshwater wetlands. During dry conditions the birds move from ephemeral wetlands to large areas of permanent open water, particularly lakes and reservoirs.

Medium Small numbers may occasionally use well-vegetated wetlands in and adjacent to study area (e.g. Waterways Estate). Rare visitor.

Thalassarche bulleri Buller's Albatross VU L Buller's Albatross breeds in New Zealand and is a seasonal visitor to Victorian coastal waters where it occurs in pelagic and inshore waters.


Thalassarche cauta Shy Albatross EN vu L 1980 The Shy Albatross is a marine pelagic species inhabiting sub-Antarctic and subtropical waters, spending the majority of their time at sea. Occasionally it is observed in continental shelf waters in bays and harbours.







EPBC DSE FFG

Thalassarche melanophris

Black-browed Albatross

VU vu I 2010 Breeds in Antarctic and sub-Antarctic islands, but commonly occurs in pelagic waters off the coast of Victoria.


Thalassarche melanophris impavida

Campbell Albatross VU Occurs in open marine waters of southern and south eastern Australia. Breeding occurs on Campbell Island, New Zealand.


Todiramphus pyrrhopygius

Red-backed Kingfisher nt 1993 A migratory and nomadic species occurring in sparse inland woodlands and scrublands, often far from water. Habitat includes gibber, spinifex and other grasslands, tree-lined dry watercourses and grassy tropical woodlands.


Tringa brevipes Grey-tailed Tattler cr L 1987 Summer migrant to coastal Australia it occurs in estuaries, tidal mudflats, mangroves, wave-washed rocks and reefs and shallow river margins coastal and inland wetlands.


Tringa glareola Wood Sandpiper vu 2011 Inhabits well vegetated shallow freshwater wetlands with emergent aquatic plants and dense fringing vegetation. This species is a migratory species from Eurasia with only a small number reaching Australia.

Medium Potential habitat occurs in Waterways Estate.

Turnix pyrrhothorax Red-chested Button-quail

vu L 2000 Primarily found in grasslands and grassy woodlands of temperate and tropical Australia. Though rarely recorded in south-eastern Australia, it can occur in irrigated pastures and crops but prefers dense, damp grasslands with little or no tree cover, or woodland areas with dense grass.

Low Habitat generally unsuitable. Rare vagrant to southern Victoria.

Xenus cinereus Terek Sandpiper en L 2001 Mainly found on saline intertidal mudflats in sheltered estuaries, embayments, harbours and lagoons.


Mammals

Arctocephalus forsteri New Zealand Fur Seal vu 1997 Breeds on islands off the southern Australian coast. Negligible No suitable habitat.

Balaenoptera edeni Bryde's Whale dd A non-migratory species found year round in Australian waters, with the largest populations concentrated off the WA coast and around the Great Barrier Reef.


Cercartetus nanus Eastern Pygmy-possum

nt I 1887 Occurs throughout south-eastern Australia in a variety of vegetation communities including subalpine woodland, wet forest, Box Ironbark Forest, coast scrub, heathy woodland and subalpine heath. Floristic diversity thought to be an important determinant of habitat quality.


Dasyurus maculatus maculatus

Spot-tailed Quoll EN en L 1886 Spot-tailed Quolls formerly inhabited a wide variety of natural environments in Victoria from tall forests to dry, open habitats. The species is now extremely rare in Victoria outside of the eastern highlands and is probably functionally extinct in the great majority of the State.


Dasyurus viverrinus Eastern Quoll rx L 1880 The Eastern Quoll is a medium-sized carnivorous marsupial that once occupied a broad range of forest, woodland and

Negligible Extinct on Mainland Australia.






EPBC DSE FFG

grassland habitats in Victoria. The species is now restricted to Tasmania and is considered to be extinct from mainland Australia.

Eubalaena australis Southern Right Whale EN cr L # Migrates between summer feeding grounds in the Southern Ocean to warmer northern waters over winter, where it can be found along the Victorian coastline. The coast 8km east of Warrnambool is a locally important calving and nursing site until late October or early November.


Isoodon obesulus obesulus

Southern Brown Bandicoot

EN nt L 1990 Typically occurs in heathland, shrubland, heathy forest and woodland habitat across southern Victoria. Previously recorded on the outskirts of Stawell and also known from within the Grampians National Park.


Megaptera novaeangliae Humpback Whale VU vu L 1980 Migrate between summer feeding grounds in the Southern Ocean to Northern waters where birthing and mating occurs. Increasingly recorded along the Victorian coast, occasionally entering Port Phillip and Western Port.


Mirounga leonina Southern Elephant Seal

VU 1973 Return to land to moult from December to February, preferring sandy beaches adjacent to Poa tussock. Victorian records likely to be of stragglers, which have been found along the entire Victorian coast, including Port Phillip and Hobsons Bay.


Potorous tridactylus tridactylus

Long-nosed Potoroo VU en L Six populations of Long-nosed Potoroo occur in Victoria within a range of habitats from open forests to heathy woodlands. The majority of their habitats are dominated by Eucalypts.


Pseudomys fumeus Smoky Mouse EN cr L Disjunct Victorian distribution with populations in the Snowfields, Eastern Highlands, East Gippsland, Otway Range and the Grampians. Recorded from a variety of vegetation communities ranging form coastal heath and heathy woodland in East Gippsland to subalpine heath and dry forest. The understorey vegetation is typically dominated by heathy shrubs, with seeds and berries providing an important food resource.

Negligible Not known to occur in local area. No suitable habitat.

Pseudomys novaehollandiae

New Holland Mouse VU vu L Inhabits a variety of habitats along the coast of south-eastern Australia, including coastal heath, heathy woodland and coastal scrub habitats with a high density of leguminous ground plants.


Pteropus poliocephalus Grey-headed Flying-fox

VU vu L 2004 Utilises a wide range of habitats from lowland rainforest in East Gippsland and coastal Stringybark forests to agricultural land and suburban gardens, with permanently established colonies in Melbourne, Geelong and Mallacoota.

High Could use remnant and planted trees and shrubs when fruiting or flowering. Could occur anywhere in study area with suitable food plants. No daytime roost sites (cams known in local area.






EPBC DSE FFG

Reptiles

Caretta caretta Loggerhead Turtle EN Loggerhead Turtles forage widely in the waters of coral and rocky reefs, seagrass beds and muddy bays throughout eastern, northern and western Australia. Nesting occurs in coastal environments of northern WA, NT and QLD.


Dermochelys coriacea Leathery Turtle EN cr L Marine species usually sighted along the eastern seaboard often in bays, estuaries and rivers. No major nesting events have been recorded in Australia.


Varanus varius Lace Goanna vu 1977 Occurs in variety of wooded habitats, including woodlands. Shelters in hollow trunks, limbs and logs.


Amphibians

Litoria raniformis Growling Grass Frog VU en L 1999 Occupies a variety of permanent and semi-permanent water bodies generally containing abundant submerged and emergent vegetation, within lowland grasslands, woodlands and open forests.

Low One of the largest populations in Greater Melbourne occurred in the former 'Carroll Road' sand quarry in Oakleigh South, some 4 km north-west of the northern boundary of the study area. This population was destroyed in 2002 when the site was filled and converted into a waste transfer facility. However, 50 frogs were salvaged from the site and released into created wetlands at Waterways Estate. There have been various surveys undertaken in an attempt confirm the continued existence of the species in the Waterways Estate, but they have not been recorded there since January 2006 and may now be locally extinct. .

Pseudophryne semimarmorata

Southern Toadlet vu 1990 Occupies a variety of habitats in south-eastern Australia, such as open forests, lowland woodlands and heathlands where adults shelter beneath leaf litter and other debris in moist soaks and depressions.

Medium May occur in ephemeral wetlands within and adjacent to the MPF alignment. Further survey required to establish if the species is present in the study area.

Fish

Galaxiella pusilla Dwarf Galaxias VU vu L 2008 Occurs in still or slow flowing, usually ephemeral water bodies (streams, wetlands, drains) that in many instances partially dry up over summer. The species usually occurs in relatively shallow water bodies and typically requires abundant marginal and aquatic vegetation.

Medium Several records exist 6 km upstream of the study at Hallam Main Drain, with suitable habitat present within the wetlands of Waterways.

Nannoperca obscura Yarra Pygmy Perch VU nt L 1982 A freshwater, non-migratory fish preferring heavily vegetated, slow flowing or still aquatic habitats but also known to occur in tiny semi-permanent habitats.

Medium Suitable habitat exists within the study area, although most recent record is dated 1982.

Prototroctes maraena Australian Grayling VU vu L Australian Grayling is a diadromous species and spends most of its life in freshwater within rivers and large creeks.

Low Some habitat exists within the study area but poor connectivity indicates a reduced






EPBC DSE FFG

Juveniles inhabit estuaries and coastal seas, whilst adults occur in freshwater habitats, typically rivers and streams with cool, clear waters and gravel substrates, but occasionally also in turbid waters.

likelihood of the Australian Grayling occurring.

Neochanna cleaveri Australian Mudfish cr L - A cryptic species found in coastal swamps and drainage lines, preferring shallow turbid water, dense aquatic vegetation (associated with Melaleuca spp. and Triglochin spp.) with silt substrates. The species is capable of aestivation during dry periods, allowing it to persist in habitats prone to prolonged dry periods.

Medium Some suitable habitat remains in the area with an extensive population believed to have occurred within the former Carrum- Carrum Swamp prior to being drained, indicating that a remnant population may still occur within the area.

Invertebrates

Plectrotarsus gravenhorstii

Caddisfly vu 1915 The aquatic stage of the species is known to inhabit shallow, densely vegetated waterways and swamplands. In Victoria the species is most common in waterways of and around Melbourne, with nine of the existing 15 records occurring within 50 km of the CBD.

Medium Suitable habitat occurs within the study area, with the most recent database record most likely representing a lack of survey effort.

Synemon plana Golden Sun Moth CR cr L # This small diurnal moth inhabits grassy woodlands and grasslands. Once thought to be a specialised species inhabiting grasslands dominated by Wallaby-grasses, it is now recognised that this species can occur in exotic grasslands dominated by Chilean Needle-grass Nassella neesiana.



A3.2 Threatened waterbird and migratory shorebird survey results The following table is the cumulative number of all native bird species observed during the targeted threatened waterbird and migratory shorebird surveys. Refer to Figure 4 for the location of each wetland listed in the table. Dusk listening and call playback surveys for Australasian and Little Bittern were undertaken at Wetlands 2B, 2D, 4B and 7. Number of surveys = number of diurnal surveys undertaken at each wetland.

Table A3.2 Threatened waterbird and migratory shorebird survey results.

Status Scientific name Common name Wetland 2A 2B 2C 2D 3A 3B 3C 3D 3E 4A 4B 5 6A 6B 6C 6D 6E 7 8 9A 9B 11 12 No. of surveys 3 3 3 2 1 1 1 2 2 3 3 3 3 2 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 1 2

Acanthiza chrysorrhoa Yellow Rumped Thornbill 4

Acanthiza lineata Striated Thornbill 2 3

Acanthiza pusilla Brown Thornbill 1 1 2 2 4

Acanthiza sp. Thornbill sp. 1

Mi Acrocephalus stentoreus Clamorous Reed-warbler 1

Anas castanea Chestnut Teal 1 10 4 2 10 3

Anas gracilis Grey Teal 8 8 5 9 2 2 1 9 2 2 2

vu Anas rhynchotis Australasian Shoveler 2 4

Anas superciliosa Pacific Black Duck 8 6 13 2 2 4 2 5 2 20 8 4 8 16 2 3 7

Anhinga novaehollandiae Darter 5 2 2 6 2 1 1 1 1 1

nt, L Anseranas semipalmata Magpie Goose 1 2 1 1

Anthochaera carunculata Red Wattle Bird 1 1 2 1 1 2

Anthochaera chrysoptera Little Wattlebird 1 1 1

vu, L, Mi Ardea modesta Eastern Great Egret 1 2 2 2 1 1

vu Aythya australis Hardhead 3 1

vu Biziura lobata Musk Duck 1

Mi Bubulcus ibis Cattle Egret 30 2 9 50+

Cacatua galerita Sulphur Crested Cockatoo 2 1 3 1

Chenonetta jubata Australian Wood Duck 5 40 36 20 11 3 11 4 7 1 7

Chroicocephalus novaehollandiae Silver Gull 3 2

Circus approximans Swamp Harrier 1 1 1 2

Cisticola exilis Golden-headed Cisticola 1 1 2 1 4 1 7 1 2 4 2 1

Corvus coronoides Australian Raven 1 6 1

Corvus mellori Little Raven 11 2 4 2 4 3

Corvus sp. Raven Sp. 1

Coturnix pectoralis Stubble Quail 5

Cracticus tibicen Australian Magpie 1 1 1 5 7 4 2 5 1 7 5 2 2 1

Cracticus torquatus Grey Butcherbird 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

Cygnus atratus Black Swan 5 2 5 1 2 8 1 1

Egretta novaehollandiae White-Faced Heron 1 2 1 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 2

Elanus axillaris Black Shouldered Kite 1 1 1 1 2

Elseyornis melanops Black-fronted dotterel 7 2 3 3 2 1 5

Eopsaltria australis Eastern Yellow Robin 1

Erythrogonys cinctus Red-kneed Dotterel 2 2 8 4

Falco berigora Brown Falcon 1 1


Status Scientific name Common name Wetland 2A 2B 2C 2D 3A 3B 3C 3D 3E 4A 4B 5 6A 6B 6C 6D 6E 7 8 9A 9B 11 12 No. of surveys 3 3 3 2 1 1 1 2 2 3 3 3 3 2 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 1 2

Fulica atra Eurasian Coot 29 11 15 4 44 29 10 1 7 46 11 35 13 10 14 6 1 27 8 3

Mi, nt Gallinago hardwickii Latham's Snipe 2 1

Gallinula tenebrosa Dusky Moorhen 2 2 3 1 1 1 4 15 8 2 4 3 8 3

Gallirallus philippensis Buff-banded Rail 1

Grallina cyanoleuca Magpie-lark 4 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 2 1 1 1 2 1 1 3

Himantopus himantopus Black-winged Stilt 12 3 2 2 5 2

Hirundo neoxena Welcome Swallow 2 20 8 20 2 4 30 5 10 2

Lichenostomus penicillatus White plumed honeyeater 5 2 1 1

Malacorhynchus membranaceus Pink-eared duck 1

Malurus cyaneus Superb Fairy-wren 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 2 2 2 4 2 5 9 1

Manorina melanocephala Noisy Miner 6 8 3 1 1 1 4 2 2 3 1 2

Microcarbo melanoleucos Little Pied Cormorant 2 1 1 1 1 2 1

Neochmia temporalis Red-browed Finch 25 5

Ocyphaps lophotes Crested Pigeon 1

Pardalotus punctatus Spotted Pardalote 1 2 1 1

Pelecanus conspicillatus Australian Pelican 5 1 1 1 2 3 2 4

Phalacrocorax carbo Great Cormorant 1 1 2 30 1 2 2 1

Phalacrocorax sulcirostris Little Black Cormorant 7 1 30+ 1 3

nt Phalacrocorax varius Pied Cormorant 1 1 1 1

Phylidonyris novaehollandiae New Holland Honeyeater 1 1 1 1 3

Platalea flavipes Yellow-billed Spoonbill 1 1

vu Platalea regia Royal Spoonbill 2 1 2 1 1 1 1

Platycercus eximius Eastern Rosella 2 2

Podiceps cristatus Great Crested Grebe 1 5

Poliocephalus poliocephalus Hoary-headed Grebe 2 1 2 14 1 6 2 2 1

Porphyrio porphyrio Purple Swamphen 2 10 25 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 10 3 7 14 14 6 18 2 2 2

Porzana fluminea Australian Spotted Crake 1

Psephotus haematonotus Red-rumped Parrot 2 2 1 2

Rhipidura albiscapa Grey Fantail 2 1

Rhipidura leucophrys Willie Wagtail 1 1 1 2 2 1

Mi Rhipidura rufifrons Rufous Fantail 1

Tachybaptus novaehollandiae Australasian Grebe 2 3 1 3 24 1 1

Threskiornis molucca Australian White Ibis 1 6

Threskiornis spinicollis Straw-necked Ibis 1 1 1 8 3 1 1 1 2 1 1 5 4

Trichoglossus haematodus Rainbow Lorikeet 2 4 4 5 2 4 1 2 1 4 2

Vanellus miles Masked Lapwing 1 2 3 2 48 31 4 2 2 5 2 2 8 2

Total No. of Native Birds 38 31 19 14 17 25 6 4 6 17 30 27 24 25 31 20 20 16 16 37 16 2 3

Total No. of Listed Birds 5 3 0 0 1 2 0 0 1 1 3 1 0 1 4 2 1 2 1 2 0 0


A3.3 Migratory species (EPBC Act listed) Table A3.3. Migratory fauna species recorded or predicted to occur within 5 km of the study area.

Scientific Name Common Name Most recent record

Birds

Acrocephalus stentoreus Clamorous Reed Warbler 2012

Actitis hypoleucos Common Sandpiper 2012

Anas clypeata Northern Shoveler 2003

Anthochaera phrygia Regent Honeyeater 1976

Apus pacificus Fork-tailed Swift 2008

Ardea modesta Eastern Great Egret 2012

Ardenna tenuirostris Short-tailed Shearwater 2010

Arenaria interpres Ruddy Turnstone 1982

Branta canadensis Canadian Goose 2008

Bubulcus ibis Cattle Egret 2012

Calidris acuminata Sharp-tailed Sandpiper 2012

Calidris alba Sanderling 2010

Calidris canutus Red Knot 2009

Calidris ferruginea Curlew Sandpiper 2012

Calidris melanotos Pectoral Sandpiper 2012

Calidris ruficollis Red-necked Stint 2012

Calidris subminuta Long-toed Stint 2008

Charadrius bicinctus Double-banded Plover 2012

Chlidonias leucopterus White-winged Black Tern 2012

Diomedea exulans Wandering Albatross

Fregata minor Great Frigatebird 1861

Gallinago hardwickii Latham's Snipe 2012

Haliaeetus leucogaster White-bellied Sea-Eagle 2011

Hirundapus caudacutus White-throated Needletail 1999

Hydroprogne caspia Caspian Tern 2012

Leipoa ocellata Malleefowl

Lewinia pectoralis Lewin's Rail 2011



Limosa lapponica Bar-tailed Godwit 2009

Limosa limosa Black-tailed Godwit 1996

Macronectes giganteus Southern Giant-Petrel 2011

Macronectes halli Northern Giant-Petrel 1976

Merops ornatus Rainbow Bee-eater

Monarcha melanopsis Black-faced Monarch 2007

Motacilla flava Yellow Wagtail 2006

Myiagra cyanoleuca Satin Flycatcher 1991

Neophema chrysogaster Orange-bellied Parrot 1977

Numenius madagascariensis Eastern Curlew 2001

Numenius minutus Little Curlew 1990

Numenius phaeopus Whimbrel 1977

Onychoprion anaethetus Bridled Tern 1998

Philomachus pugnax Ruff 1987

Plegadis falcinellus Glossy Ibis 2012

Pluvialis fulva Pacific Golden Plover 2005

Pluvialis squatarola Grey Plover 1977

Rhipidura rufifrons Rufous Fantail 2008

Rostratula australis Australian Painted Snipe 2012

Stercorarius parasiticus Arctic Jaeger 1981

Stercorarius pomarinus Pomarine Jaeger 1979

Sterna hirundo Common Tern 2010

Sternula albifrons Little Tern 1975

Thalassarche bulleri Buller's Albatross

Thalassarche cauta Shy Albatross 1980

Thalassarche melanophris Black-browed Albatross 2010

Thalassarche melanophris impavida Campbells Albatross

Tringa brevipes Grey-tailed Tattler 1987

Tringa glareola Wood Sandpiper 2011

Tringa nebularia Common Greenshank 2012

Tringa stagnatilis Marsh Sandpiper 2012



Xenus cinereus Terek Sandpiper 2001

Mammals

Balaenoptera edeni Bryde's Whale

Caperea marginata Pygmy Right Whale

Eubalaena australis Southern Right Whale

Lagenorhynchus obscurus Dusky Dolphin

Megaptera novaeangliae Humpback Whale 1980

Orcinus orca Killer Whale

Reptiles

Caretta caretta Loggerhead Turtle

Dermochelys coriacea Leathery Turtle

Fish

Carcharodon carcharias Great White Shark

Lamna nasus Porbeagle


Appendix 4: Habitat Hectare Assessment Results


Table A4.1a: Quantification and significance of native vegetation patches.

GP=Gippsland Plain, E = Endangered, V = Vulnerable, PGW = Plains Grassy Woodland, PGWet = Plains Grassy Wetland, SS = Swamp Scrub, SW = Sedge Wetland, AS = Aquatic Sedgeland, TM = Tall Marsh, CGW = Creekline Grassy Woodland 1Default habitat score used for these wetlands because of heavy grazing and/or dry seasonal conditions 2Tall Marsh EVC benchmark used because Aquatic Sedgeland does not yet have a benchmark

1A 2A 3A 4A1 5A 6A 7A 8A 9A 10A 11A 12A 13A1 14A1 15A1 16A1 17A1 18A1 19A1 20A1 21A1 22A1 23A1 24A1 25A1 26A 27A 28A 29A 30AGP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP

PGW PGW CGW PGWet PGW PGW PGWet PGWet PGWet PGW PGW PGW PGWet PGWet PGWet PGWet PGWet PGWet PGWet PGWet PGWet PGWet PGWet PGWet PGWet TM TM PGWet PGWet PGWet

E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E EMax Score

Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score

Large Old Trees 10 0 0 10 - 8 10 NA NA NA 10 10 0 - - - - - - - - - - - - - NA NA NA NA NA

Canopy Cover 5 0 0 3 - 5 5 NA NA NA 3 3 0 - - - - - - - - - - - - - NA NA NA NA NALack of Weeds 15 0 0 0 - 2 2 2 2 2 7 7 6 - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4 0 4 4 4Understorey 25 5 5 5 - 5 5 10 10 10 5 5 5 - - - - - - - - - - - - - 15 5 5 5 5Recruitment 10 3 3 3 - 5 3 0 0 0 5 3 0 - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3 0 3 3 3Organic Matter 5 4 4 2 - 4 4 4 4 4 5 4 4 - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5 4 3 3 3Logs 5 0 0 0 - 0 2 NA NA NA 0 0 0 - - - - - - - - - - - - - NA NA NA NA NA

12 12 23 - 29 31 16 16 16 35 32 15 - - - - - - - - - - - - - 27 9 15 15 151 1 1 - 1 1 1.36 1.36 1.36 1 1 1 - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1.36 1.36 1.36 1.36 1.36

12 12 23 - 29 31 21.76 21.76 21.76 35 32 15 - - - - - - - - - - - - - 36.72 12.24 20.4 20.4 20.4

Patch Size 10 1 1 1 - 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1 1 1 1 1

Neighbourhood 10 0 0 0 - 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 - - - - - - - - - - - - - 0 0 0 0 0Distance to Core 5 1 1 1 - 1 1 1 1 1 3 3 3 - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3 3 3 3 3

2 2 2 - 2 2 2 2 2 4 4 4 - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4 4 4 4 41 0.14 0.14 0.25 0.45 0.31 0.33 0.18 0.18 0.18 0.39 0.36 0.19 0.45 0.45 0.45 0.45 0.45 0.45 0.45 0.45 0.45 0.45 0.45 0.45 0.45 0.31 0.13 0.19 0.19 0.19

100 14 14 25 45 31 33 18 18 18 39 36 19 45 45 45 45 45 45 45 45 45 45 45 45 45 31 13 19 19 190.03 0.18 0.40 0.30 0.14 0.19 0.04 0.01 0.03 0.07 0.08 0.03 0.04 0.01 0.04 0.09 0.02 0.02 0.02 0.03 0.01 0.01 0.02 0.03 0.34 0.12 0.05 0.43 0.08 0.100.00 0.03 0.10 0.13 0.04 0.06 0.01 0.00 0.01 0.03 0.03 0.01 0.02 0.00 0.02 0.04 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.02 0.15 0.04 0.01 0.08 0.02 0.02

High High High Very High High High High High High High High HighVery High

Very High

Very High

Very High

Very High

Very High

Very High

Very High

Very High

Very High

Very High

Very High

Very High

High High High High High

High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High

NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA

0 0 9 0 1 8 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0No No No Potential No No No No No No No No Potential Potential Potential Potential Potential Potential Potential Potential Potential Potential Potential Potential Potential No No Potential Potential Potential

No No No Yes No No Yes Yes Yes No No No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No No Yes Yes Yes

High High Very High

Very High

High High High High High High High

FFG Wetland communityEPBC Wetland CommunityNumber of Large Old Trees present

High High

Con

serv

atio

n

Sign

ific

ance

Conservation Status x Hab Score

Threatened Species Rating

Other Site Attribute Rating

Overall Conservation

Habitat ZoneBioregionEVC #: NameEVC Bioregional Conservation Status

Very High

Very High

Very High

High

Habitat Hectares (Hha)

(highest rating)Very High

Very High

Very High

Very High

Very High

Very High

Very High

High Very High High High High Very High

HABITAT SCOREHabitat points = #/100Habitat Zone area (ha)

Site

Con

diti

on

Total Site ScoreEVC standardiser (x 75/55)Adjusted Site Score

Lan

dsca

pe

Valu

e

Total Landscape Score


Table A4.1b: Quantification and significance of native vegetation patches.

GP=Gippsland Plain, E = Endangered, V = Vulnerable, PGW = Plains Grassy Woodland, PGWet = Plains Grassy Wetland, SS = Swamp Scrub, SW = Sedge Wetland, AS = Aquatic Sedgeland, TM = Tall Marsh, CGW = Creekline Grassy Woodland 1Default habitat score used for these wetlands because of heavy grazing and/or dry seasonal conditions 2Tall Marsh EVC benchmark used because Aquatic Sedgeland does not yet have a benchmark

31A 32A 33A 34A 35A 36A 37A 38A 39A 40A 41A 42A 43A 44A 45A 45B 45C 45D 45E 45F 45G 45H 46A 46B 47A 47B 48A 49A 50A1 51A1 52A 53A

GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP GP

TM PGWet PGWet PGWet SS SS SS PGWet PGWet PGWet PGWet PGWet PGWet PGWet TM SW TM AS2 AS2 SS PGW AS2 AS2 SS AS2 SS SGPG SS PGWet PGWet SS TM

E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E V E E E E E E E E E E E E E E E EMax Score

Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score Score

Large Old Trees 10 NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA 0 NA NA NA NA NA NA NA - - NA NA

Canopy Cover 5 NA NA NA NA 5 5 5 NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA 5 0 NA NA 5 NA 5 NA 5 - - 5 NALack of Weeds 15 11 4 4 4 9 9 9 4 4 4 0 6 0 4 15 7 15 11 11 15 11 11 11 15 11 15 9 9 - - 6 9Understorey 25 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 10 10 10 5 10 10 5 5 15 5 5 5 5 10 10 5 5 10 5 10 5 - - 5 5Recruitment 10 0 3 3 3 5 5 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 0 3 0 10 3 10 3 5 - - 5 0Organic Matter 5 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 2 3 4 3 3 3 3 3 3 5 5 5 3 5 5 5 5 5 - - 4 3Logs 5 NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA 0 NA NA NA NA NA NA NA - - NA NA

19 15 15 15 27 27 27 17 17 17 7 19 14 12 23 25 23 19 19 40 26 29 19 40 29 40 27 29 - - 25 171.36 1.36 1.36 1.36 1.25 1.25 1.25 1.36 1.36 1.36 1.36 1.36 1.36 1.36 1.36 1.36 1.36 1.36 1.36 1.25 1 1.36 1.36 1.25 1.36 1.25 1.36 1.25 - - 1.25 1.3625.84 20.4 20.4 20.4 33.75 33.75 33.75 23.12 23.12 23.12 9.52 25.84 19.04 16.32 31.28 34 31.28 25.84 25.84 50 26 39.44 25.84 50 39.44 50 36.72 36.25 - - 31.25 23.12

Patch Size 10 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 - - 1 1

Neighbourhood 10 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 - - 0 0Distance to Core 5 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 - - 1 1

4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 0 0 2 21 0.23 0.19 0.19 0.19 0.31 0.31 0.31 0.21 0.21 0.21 0.11 0.23 0.18 0.16 0.28 0.3 0.28 0.24 0.24 0.45 0.31 0.34 0.24 0.45 0.34 0.45 0.32 0.34 0.45 0.45 0.27 0.19

100 23 19 19 19 31 31 31 21 21 21 11 23 18 16 28 30 28 24 24 45 31 34 24 45 34 45 32 34 45 45 27 190.01 0.30 0.04 0.33 0.07 0.08 0.08 0.37 0.55 2.18 0.02 0.52 0.22 0.02 0.03 0.63 0.02 0.03 0.05 0.29 0.05 0.04 0.02 0.01 0.03 0.13 0.03 0.13 0.08 0.03 0.04 0.010.00 0.06 0.01 0.06 0.02 0.03 0.03 0.08 0.12 0.46 0.00 0.12 0.04 0.00 0.01 0.19 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.13 0.02 0.01 0.00 0.01 0.01 0.06 0.01 0.04 0.04 0.01 0.01 0.00

High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High HighVery High

High High HighVery High

HighVery High

High HighVery High

Very High

High High

High High High High High High High Very High

Very High

Very High

High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High High

NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0No Potential Potential Potential No No No Yes Yes Yes Potential Yes Potential Potential No No No No No No No No No No No No No No Potential Potential No NoNo Yes Yes Yes No No No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No No No No No No No No No No No No No No Yes Yes No No

Number of Large Old Trees presentEPBC Wetland CommunityFFG Wetland community

Habitat Zone area (ha)Habitat Hectares (Hha)

Con

serv

atio

n

Sign

ific

ance

Conservation Status x Hab Score

Threatened Species Rating

Other Site Attribute Rating

Overall Conservation (highest rating)

Habitat Zone

BioregionEVC #: Name

EVC Bioregional Conservation Status

Site

Con

diti

on

Total Site ScoreEVC standardiser (x 75/55)Adjusted Site Score

Lan

dsca

pe

Valu

e

Total Landscape ScoreHABITAT SCOREHabitat points = #/100

High High High High High High High Very High

Very High

Very High

High High High High High High High High High Very High

High High High Very High

High Very High

High High High Very High

Very High

High


Table A4.2: Scattered Trees within the study area

Tree # Species Size Class Current or Pre-1750 EVC BioregionEVC bioregional

conservation status

Conservation Significance of

tree

1 Narrow-leaf Peppermint ST Plains Grassy Woodland Gippsland Plain Endangered Low

2 Narrow-leaf Peppermint ST Plains Grassy Woodland Gippsland Plain Endangered Low

3 River Red-gum MOT Plains Grassy Woodland Gippsland Plain Endangered High

4 River Red-gum ST Plains Grassy Woodland Gippsland Plain Endangered Low

5 River Red-gum LOT Plains Grassy Woodland Gippsland Plain Endangered High


16 Coast Manna-gum ST Plains Grassy Woodland Gippsland Plain Endangered Low


27 Dead Tree ST Plains Grassy Woodland Gippsland Plain Endangered Low


29 Coast Manna-gum MOT Plains Grassy Woodland Gippsland Plain Endangered High





34 Coast Manna-gum ST Plains Grassy Woodland Gippsland Plain Endangered Low


36 Dead Tree LOT Plains Grassy Woodland Gippsland Plain Endangered High





41 Swamp Gum ST Plains Grassy Woodland Gippsland Plain Endangered Low














A4.3: Trees in patches of native vegetation within the study area

Tree #Habitat

ZoneSpecies Size Class Current or Pre-1750 EVC Bioregion

EVC bioregional

conservation status

6 3A River Red-gum LOT Plains Grassy Woodland Gippsland Plain Endangered

7 3A River Red-gum LOT Creekline Grassy Woodland Gippsland Plain Endangered



10 3A River Red-gum VLOT Creekline Grassy Woodland Gippsland Plain Endangered

11 3A River Red-gum VLOT Creekline Grassy Woodland Gippsland Plain Endangered






19 6A Coast Manna-gum LOT Plains Grassy Woodland Gippsland Plain Endangered

20 6A Coast Manna-gum LOT Plains Grassy Woodland Gippsland Plain Endangered


22 6A River Red-gum VLOT Plains Grassy Woodland Gippsland Plain Endangered







Figures

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Acknowledgement: VicRoads© State of Victoria, Department of Sustainability and Environment, 2007

Matter: 15577Date: 18 February 2013, Checked By: VCW, Drawn By: sflackLocation: P:\15500s\15577\Mapping\15577_F1_Locality.mxd

LegendStudy AreaRAMSAR sitesBiositesParks and reservesEastlink

Scale 1:60,000 @ A4, GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55

0 500 1,000 1,500 2,000

Metres ±Biosis Pty LtdBallarat, Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, Sydney, Wangarratta & Wollongong

Figure 1: Location of the Study Area

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±

Matter: 15577, Date: 19 June 2013, Checked by: VCW, Drawn by: STF, Last edited by: smitchellLocation:P:\15500s\15577\Mapping\15577_F2_EcoFeatures

Biosis Pty Ltd

Ballarat, Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, Sydney,Wangaratta & Wollongong

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Figure 2a: Ecologicalfeatures of the Study Area

Coordinate System: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55

Acknowledgements: VicRoads

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Figure 2b: Ecologicalfeatures of the Study Area



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Figure 2c: Ecologicalfeatures of the Study Area



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Figure 2f: Ecologicalfeatures of the Study Area



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Figure 2g: Ecologicalfeatures of the Study Area



Documents

Flora and Fauna Investigation: Northern Extension of the ......Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act (Victoria) Presence of threatened community: Herb-rich Plains Grassy Wetland (West Gippsland)