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Development Proposal and Environmental Management Plan

Purdys Quarry expansion

Irishtown, Tasmania

Allan Lord Holdings Pty Ltd

May 2010

Prepared by Environmental Service and Design Pty Ltd ABN 97 107 517 144 ACN 107 517 144 Office 14 Cattley Street Burnie TAS 7320 Phone: (03) 6431 2999 Fax : (03) 6431 2933

Postal PO Box 651 Burnie TAS 7320 www.esandd.com.au Project No. 4191

Allan Lord Holdings Pty Ltd - Purdys Quarry DP&EMP May 2010 Environmental Service and Design Pty Ltd – PAF #4191

Page 1

Document Control

Prepared & Published by: ES&D

Version: Final

File: 4191

Contact: Greg Doherty

Phone No: (03) 6431 2999

Prepared For: Allan Lord Holdings Pty Ltd

Version: Reviewed/Approved By Date

Draft 1 Ian Ferris ES&D 13-Jan-2010

Draft 2 Greg Doherty, ES&D 25- Mar-2010

Draft 3 David Dwyer, ES&D 25-May-2010

Final Greg Doherty, ES&D 9-Jul-10

This report has been prepared, based on information generated by Environmental Service and Design Pty Ltd from a wide range of sources. If you believe that Environmental Service and Design Pty Ltd has misrepresented or overlooked any relevant information, it is your responsibility to bring this to the attention of Environmental Service and Design Pty Ltd before implementing any of the report’s recommendations.

In preparing this report, we have relied on information supplied to Environmental Service and Design Pty Ltd, which, where reasonable, Environmental Service and Design Pty Ltd has assumed to be correct. Whilst all reasonable efforts have been made to substantiate such information, no responsibility will be accepted if the information is incorrect or inaccurate.

This report is prepared solely for the use of the client to whom it is addressed and Environmental Service and Design Pty Ltd will not accept any responsibility for third parties.

In the event that any advice or other services rendered by Environmental Service and Design Pty Ltd constitute a supply of services to a consumer under the Trade Practices Act 1974 (as amended), then Environmental Service and Design Pty Ltd’s liability for any breach of any conditions or warranties implied under the Act shall not be excluded but will be limited to the cost of having the advice or services supplied again.

Nothing in this Disclaimer affects any rights or remedies to which you may be entitled under the Trade Practices Act 1974 (as amended).

Each paragraph of this disclaimer shall be deemed to be separate and severable from each other. If any paragraph is found to be illegal, prohibited or unenforceable, then this shall not invalidate any other paragraphs


Page 2

Foreword

The Development Proposal and Environmental Management Plan (DP&EMP) has been

prepared to support the Notice of Intent (NOI) by Allan Lord Holdings submitted to the

Department of Primary Industries Parks Water and Environment (DPIPWE). The NOI

proposal involves increasing production at the existing Purdys Road quarry site to a

maximum 50,000 cubic metres per annum.

The activity is a Level 2 Activity as defined by Schedule 2 of the Environmental

Management and Pollution Control Act 1994 (EMPCA), therefore necessitating the

submission of a DP&EMP to describe the proposed operations, potential impacts and

proposed management measures. The DP&EMP aims to provide this information to the

decision-making authorities, the Board of Environmental Protection Authority (‘the

Board’), the Council, and the general public.

How to Make a Submission:

Any member of the public has the right to lodge a submission, in support or otherwise,

regarding the development application a written submission must be received at the

following address for the Circular Head Council within 28 days of development

application advertisement to be considered.

Circular Head Council

PO Box 348, Smithton TAS 7330.

Tel: (03) 6452 4800

Fax:(03) 6452 4861

Email: [email protected]


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Summary

Allan Lord Holdings Pty Ltd wishes to increase production of materials from an existing

quarry from 20,000 cubic metres per year to 50,000 cubic metres per year. The quarry

is located off Irishtown Road, at Pulbeena, approximately 4km south east of Smithton,

North West Tasmania. The quarry has been operating for over 5 years, and produces

road base and fill gravels from a mudstone source in a 20 ha mining lease No 1398P/M.

The operation of the quarry includes ripping and loading, with some material being

crushed on site and screened to produce mid range quality gravels suitable for

unsealed roads. No blasting is required, as the rock is generally fractured sufficiently to

be extracted easily. Reserves are estimated to be sufficient to allow production to at a

rate of up to 50,000 cubic metres per year, to continue for 20 years.

Natural values of the existing and planned operational site are limited, due to the site

being extensively disturbed by clearing and grazing. Areas of existing vegetation will

remain largely unaffected by the development.

The site is well concealed from the local area by a natural ridge located on the western

lease boundary that acts as a natural screen. Additional temporary screening is

proposed, using vegetation grown in topsoil and overburden stockpiles kept for

rehabilitation.

A progressive rehabilitation strategy will be incorporated into the quarry operation. All

topsoil materials and overburden will be temporarily stockpiled prior to being used for

rehabilitation. The final landform will have shallow battered sides with a land capability

rating of 5-6.

All surface water from the operational area will be diverted through a settlement drain,

prior to being dispersed into adjacent paddocks. Vegetation will be allowed to establish

on overburden stockpiles to minimize the potential for erosion.

The most significant risk associated with the proposed upgrade is the impact of road

traffic, including safety, dust and noise, on the residents of Purdys Road. Alternative

access routes have also been assessed and were not considered appropriate. As a

consequence a traffic impact assessment has been completed and a range of

recommended improvements to the road have been made. Implementation of these

recommendations has begun.

Given the small size of the existing operation and planned expansion the assessment

of operational performance is proposed to be done via an annual review and inspection

process. The key commitments for the ongoing operation of the site are summarized

below.


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Subject Commitment Forecast

completion

1. Complaints/ incident register

Maintain a register of all complaints and incidents related to the operation including haulage along Purdys Road.

Ongoing

2. Traffic Widening of the road verge, improved signage and restricting haulage vehicle speeds will be carried out to address the risks.

December 2010

3. Dust When dust is likely to be a problem, a water truck will be on standby to wet down the processing and traffic areas to minimize adverse effects.

Ongoing

4. Surface water Maintenance of settling ponds will be periodically undertaken to ensure adequate function of the ponds as silt traps.

Ongoing

5. Surface water Hydrocarbon spill kits are maintained on site for use if significant quantities of hydrocarbons are lost from plant or equipment

Ongoing

6. Noise Hours of operation will be in accordance with those specified in the Quarry Code of Practice.

Ongoing

7. Noise The quarry will be developed in accordance with the prescribed mining and operations plan in order to contain and deflect excess noise from operations to within the amphitheatre to be formed by the quarry faces.

Ongoing

8. Solid Waste The stockpiled topsoil materials will be periodically used for progressive rehabilitation of the site

Ongoing

9. Scrap waste All scrap metal or other recyclable materials will be stored on site until sufficient quantities are available to warrant collection for recycle.

Ongoing

10. Waste Remove all putrescible waste from site for proper disposal.

Ongoing

11. Rehabilitation Limit the total area of disturbance from mining activities to 3.5ha and implement a progressive rehabilitation strategy

Ongoing

12. Annual review Unless otherwise specified by the Board of the EPA monitoring and review of performance will be undertaken on at least an annual basis for the first 3 years, with the aim of extending the period of review subject to satisfactory performance.

July 2011


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Table of contents

Document Control ................................................................................................................................1

Foreword ..............................................................................................................................................2

Summary ..............................................................................................................................................3

Table of contents ..................................................................................................................................5

List of figures ........................................................................................................................................6

List of tables .........................................................................................................................................6

List of appendices ................................................................................................................................6

1.0 Introduction ...............................................................................................................................7

2.0 Proposal description .................................................................................................................9

2.1 Proposal outline ....................................................................................................................9

2.2 Operations ............................................................................................................................9

3.0 Existing environment ............................................................................................................. 15

3.1 Planning aspects ............................................................................................................... 15

3.2 Environmental aspects ...................................................................................................... 15

3.3 Socio-economic aspects ................................................................................................... 16

4.0 Potential effects and their management ................................................................................ 19

4.1 Hazard analysis and risk assessment ............................................................................... 19

4.2 Traffic impacts ................................................................................................................... 19

4.3 Air emissions ..................................................................................................................... 20

4.4 Surface water emissions ................................................................................................... 22

4.5 Noise emissions ................................................................................................................ 24

4.6 Solid and controlled wastes ............................................................................................... 26

4.7 Biodiversity and natural values .......................................................................................... 27

4.8 Land use and development ............................................................................................... 28

4.9 Groundwater ...................................................................................................................... 29

4.10 Dangerous goods .......................................................................................................... 29

4.11 Greenhouse gas and ozone depleting substances ....................................................... 29

4.12 Heritage ......................................................................................................................... 29

4.13 Visual effects ................................................................................................................. 30

4.14 Socio-economic issues .................................................................................................. 30

4.15 Health, Safety and security ........................................................................................... 30

4.16 Environmental management systems ........................................................................... 30

5.0 Monitoring and review ........................................................................................................... 31

6.0 Decommissioning and rehabilitation...................................................................................... 31

7.0 Commitments ........................................................................................................................ 32

8.0 Conclusion ............................................................................................................................. 33

9.0 References ............................................................................................................................ 34


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List of figures

Figure 1 ML 1398 P/M Location plan ..........................................................................................8

Figure 2 Site location plan ....................................................................................................... 12

Figure 3 Photograph looking north from southern lease boundary of current quarry operation ...

................................................................................................................................... 13

Figure 4 Mine sketch plans Years 1 – 15+ .............................................................................. 14

Figure 5 Land use and planning surrounding ML1398P/M showing location of residences and

Sea Eagle nests on western side of Lake Mikany. .................................................... 17

Figure 6 Oblique view looking north of quarry site showing location of residences and White

Bellied Sea Eagle nests on the western side of Lake Mikany.................................... 18

List of tables

Table 1 Distances of residences and facilities from road side ................................................... 19

Table 2 Distances to nearest residences ................................................................................... 21

Table 3 Applicable guidelines for lowland water quality ............................................................. 23

Table 4 Summary of commitments ............................................................................................. 32

List of appendices

Appendix 1 Land title certificate ................................................................................................ 35

Appendix 2 BOM weather data ................................................................................................. 37

Appendix 3 Traffic assessment ................................................................................................ 41

Appendix 4 Risk assessment and risk matrix ........................................................................... 48

Appendix 5 Fauna and flora habitat assessment ..................................................................... 51


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1.0 Introduction

Allan Lord Holdings Pty Ltd (ALH) operates a quarry off Irishtown Road at Pulbeena,

approximately 4km south of Smithton, NW Tasmania (Figure 1). The quarry currently

produces road base and fill products used throughout the region for unsealed roads,

shoulder gravel, dairy cow-lanes and fill. The quarry was, until taken over by Allan Lord

Holdings in August of 2008, operating as “Purdys Quarry”. A copy of the land title is

presented in Appendix 1.

It is proposed the production capacity of this quarry be increased from 20,000 cubic

metres per annum (m3/a) to 50,000 m

3/a.

This DP&EMP provides information relevant to the proposal to enable a proper

assessment of the proposal by government agencies and the public. It describes the

existing environment, the nature and potential effects of the proposed increase in

production, and provides solutions to mitigate any resulting increases in environmental

effects.

The Proponent (Mr. Allan Lord) operates a number of businesses in the Circular Head

district, including trucking, waste collection, water supply and farming.

Proponent: Mr. Allan Lord

Business: Allan Lord Holdings Pty Ltd

ACN: 127 905 980

Address: 52 Irishtown Rd Smithton

Mailing address: PO Box 40, Smithton Tas. 7330

Phone: 0417 556 280

This document has been prepared using the DP&EMP Project Specific Guidelines

provided by the Environment Protection Authority in April 2009, following submission of

a Notice of Intent submitted in March 2009.


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Figure 1 ML 1398 P/M Location plan


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2.0 Proposal description

2.1 Proposal outline

Weathered rock, a mudstone of the Rocky Cape Group, is currently extracted from a

small rise, forming part of the Beacom Hills Range, south east of Smithton, NW

Tasmania. This extraction is carried out within the boundaries of Mining Lease

1398P/M, and in accordance with Planning Permit PR CH03-069-01 from Circular Head

Council. It is proposed that due to market demand, the production capacity of this

quarry be increased from 20,000 cubic metres per annum (m3/a) to 50,000 m

3/a.

There is estimated to be over 800,000 m3 of material available on this site, which at a

full production rate of the proposed 50,000 m3/a will provide a life of 16 years. As full

production in every year is not envisaged, the operation life is expected to be 20 years.

2.2 Operations

Layout of the existing pit is presented in Figure 2, a photograph of existing operations is

presented as Figure 3 and future mining plans presented in Figure 4. The proposed

extraction method allows for efficient extraction of the resource, whilst permitting

progressive rehabilitation to occur.

In general, the extraction is progressed to the east to form a face that is then worked

north. The screening plant and stockpile areas are moved progressively to the north as

appropriate, as the southern face and floor is rehabilitated. Soil and overburden from

the north of the pit can be moved directly to the southern end of the pit.

The extraction and treatment process involves ripping of the face or floor by bulldozer

and/or excavator, then transporting by loader directly to stockpile, onto trucks for

disposal, or through a crushing plant followed by screening. No blasting is required due

to the natural fracturing of the rock, which is in itself a medium to low strength matrix.

Benches are used to limit slope angles and to segregate highly weather material from

less weathered rock, as necessary. As the pit is likely to be less than 15m deep, a

maximum of 3 benches of 5m high will be required at the greatest height for operation.

More specific plans are not appropriate as the material quality may alter, or the annual

demand for certain materials may change. This may result in short term variations in

extraction processes.

25% all material generated will be sold as run of pit (all in), with the remainder passed

through the mobile crusher/screening plant. 75% of products will be crushed and

screened to provide a -32mm and +50mm products. The maximum processing rate is

approximately 40 tph. There will be no waste product, all material is utilized.


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Major plant and equipment currently used on site, include;

− A mobile Jaques Jaw crusher,

− A connecting conveyor belt system

− A 3-deck vibratory screen.

− A front-end loader.

− Contract bulldozer as required

− Contract trucks for transport as required

No major items additional to the above are currently proposed, but potentially a small

cone crusher may be added to improve material quality. Fuel is delivered as required in

a utility mounted 100 litre tank. No fuel is stored on site. A shipping container is

currently used as an office shelter and lunchroom. Small utility vehicles are used for site

access.

2.2.1 Raw materials (including water)

All material in the product is sourced on site. No external solid raw materials (e.g.

binders) are required for the process. Water is used in the quarry for dust suppression.

Most of the water for this use is sourced from natural springs that are exposed in the

floor of the quarry, and the water is collected in settling ponds for recycling and general

usage e.g. screen washing. Tankers filled at Smithton are used for road dust.

2.2.2 Energy requirements

There are no external electrical energy requirements for the site, which is not connected

to the Aurora grid. All power (energy) is supplied by diesel source.

2.2.3 Waste generation and management

There are no unusable materials produced. Solid wastes are limited to packaging, food

scraps, rags and similar small items. As there are no permanent facilities on site, all

solid waste is removed following collection in lidded containers.

Portable toilets are used where necessary.

Liquid wastes may be produced by sediment and grease/oil-containing runoff waters.

Hydrocarbon spill kits are maintained on site for use if significant quantities of

hydrocarbons are lost from plant or equipment.

The existing surface water runoff collection system traps all waters and will be

expanded as necessary to manage additional runoff containment (See Section 4.4).


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2.2.4 New point source wastewater discharge points

There will be no new point discharges. All runoff will be directed to the existing outlet

point (see Figure 2).

2.2.5 New point source atmospheric discharge points

There are no new point source atmospheric discharge points.

2.2.6 Major sources of noise

Noise is generated by a portable crusher and screening plant (when operating),

extraction equipment (bulldozer, excavator, loader), and by transportation (trucks).

2.2.7 Production capacity and rate

Production is generally project based or demand driven, although materials may be

produced during slack sales periods. Average annual production is currently in the

order of 18-20,000 cubic metres (at an estimated density of 2 tonnes per cubic metre

(moist). During wetter months, production rate decreases due to reduced sales and

production difficulties.

2.2.8 Hours of operation

As per the Quarry code of Practice; “Operating hours of quarries in the vicinity of

residential premises, to 0700 to 1900 hours, Mondays to Fridays and 0800 to 1600

hours Saturdays”.

Allan Lord Holding Pty Ltd - Purdys Quarry DP&EMP May 2010 Environmental Service and Design Pty Ltd – PAF #4191

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Figure 2 Site location plan

Allan Lord Holding Pty Ltd - Purdys Quarry DP&EMP May 2010 Environmental Service and Design Pty Ltd – PAF #4191

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Figure 3 Photograph looking north from southern lease boundary of current quarry operation


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2.2.9 Project schedule

No additional construction will be required. The mining plan for the site (Figure 4) will

remain the same, but with the assumption of full capacity production, the quarry life will

be reduced.

Year 1-5

Years 5-15

Years 15+

Figure 4 Mine sketch plans Years 1 – 15+


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3.0 Existing environment

3.1 Planning aspects

Mining lease 1398P/M is an area of 20 ha and is bounded by pastoral land to the west

and south, and native forest to the north and east. The land is over property owned by

the proponent, described as PID 6237498 CT213616/1, at 238 Purdys Rd Pulbeena

(Appendix 1). Location of the mining lease and adjacent properties and their land use is

presented in Figure 5.

The land is zoned Rural. The existing quarry operates in accordance with Planning

Permit PR CH03-069-01 from Circular Head Council. A development application will be

lodged with Circular Head Council for the increase in use intensity.

A road reserve exists over the site. Application has been made to Crown Lands

Department to remove this roadway, as it does not connect to properties without

existing public road accesses. Incursion onto this reserve area will not occur for at least

4 years.

The site has been partially cleared grazing land, with no known other activity. No

permanent structures exist on site, or planned.

The site is surrounded by rural activity. To the south and west the land is cleared for

grazing/dairy, but to the north and east the land remains selectively logged forest.

Approximately 600m to the east is Lake Mikany, a water storage dam.

Land to the north, south and west is owned privately; the land to the east is controlled

by Forestry Tasmania.

3.2 Environmental aspects

3.2.1 Geology and geomorphology

The site is located on ridge of undulating rounded hills (Beacom Hills), trending

northerly. The altitude is a maximum of 60m AHD, with drainage to east and west. The

quarry site is on slight rise on the crest of a ridgeline, with a limited catchment. Surface

drainage from the site is to the west from the entire planned mining area.

The area is mapped to include Laminated fine-grained quartzite and cherty siltstone, an

outlier of Mesoproterozoic Cowrie Siltstone forming part of the Rocky Cape Group of

sediments. There are a number of quarries within similar geology, mainly to the north.

Most of the materials in the other quarries is harder and more siliceous, and less

suitable for specific uses.


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The geology weathers to a thin silty pale grey clay with angular gravel. The soils are not

classed as erodible based on their gravelly texture and non dispersive (Emerson class

5)

3.2.2 Groundwater and surface drainage

The site is on the western side of the crest of a line of hills (Beacom Hills). The site has

an established natural drainage to the east for a small catchment area (< 3Ha). The

quarry area is (and will continue to be) drained to the west. The eastern drainage forms

part of the catchment for Lake Mikany, the dammed water supply for Smithton and

Stanley. The dam reserve is located ~ 510m from the edge of the lease. The quarry

outline is 650m from the reserve boundary.

3.2.3 Flora and Fauna

A flora and fauna habitat assessment has been completed and is attached in Appendix

5. This study did not identify any specific rare or threatened species on site, although

the region has reports of Showy Willowherb (Epilobium pallidiflorum) and Paterson’s

Spider Orchid (Caladenia patersonii). An area of a threatened community (E.

brookeriana forest) was identified within the property, but is outside of the proposed

mining area.

A fauna habitat survey, identifying suitable habitat for the range of species was included

in the vegetation study. The areas of suitable habitat are not included in areas

proposed for mining. The location of White Bellied Sea Eagles nests to the east of the

quarry site and within the Conservation Area surrounding Lake Mikany is presented in

as (Figure 5). The sites are not impacted upon by the existing quarry operations or by

the proposed expansion in activity due to a combination of separation by virtue of

location on opposite sides of the Beacom Hill Range, established vegetation and

distance >500m from operations (Figure 6).

3.3 Socio-economic aspects

The site has an existing planning permit for a quarry operation. Residents have been

informed and the expansion proposal discussed. In addition, the proposal must be

advertised for comment through the Circular Head planning Development Application

process and all local residents are notified by mail.


Page 17

Figure 5 Land use and planning surrounding ML1398P/M showing location of residences and White Bellied Sea Eagle nests on western side of

Lake Mikany.


Page 18

Figure 6 Oblique view looking north of quarry site showing location of residences and White Bellied Sea Eagle nests on the western side of Lake

Mikany. Google Earth image with vertical to horizontal scale exaggerated 3:1. Residences shown R1 to R7.

QuarryExtent

Purdys Road

Lake Mikany

Approx locationof white bellied Sea Eagle nest

R1

R2

R3

R4

R5

R6

R7

Quarry

Entrance


Page 19

4.0 Potential effects and their management

4.1 Hazard analysis and risk assessment

A review of the environmental aspects and potential impacts has been completed.

Risks have been assessed in accordance with AS4360:2004 guided by principals

outlined in ISO 14001. The results of the assessment and risk matrix used for

assessment are presented in Appendix 4.

The most significant residual risk identified is traffic impacts. Potential impacts upon air,

noise, surface water runoff, waste materials, safety and biodiversity were also identified,

however the residual risk was not considered significant.

4.2 Traffic impacts

4.2.1 Existing conditions

The site is located on a public road, Purdys Road, off Irishtown Road, some 4km from

Smithton. Irishtown Road carries traffic from forestry, agriculture and quarrying

operations, and is nominated B-Double Route.

Access to the site is along Purdys Road. This road is a gravel road and is considered a

rural access road with uses to serve the frontage residents (4 residences), a dairy farm

with facilities including a milking shed, farm implement/storage sheds and the quarry

activities.

Shed and dairy facilities for the properties are located adjacent the road for ease of

access. Distance of the properties from the road verge are presented in Table 1.

Table 1 Distances of residences and facilities from road side

Facility Distance

Residence 1 110m

Residence 2 50m

Residence 3 100m

Residence 4 20m

Dairy Shed (not operating) 5m

A traffic impact report has been completed (Appendix 3, Eaton, Traffic Assessment

Report, Nov 2009). The report indicates that current usage rate of Purdys Road is

approximately 76 vehilces/day.


Page 20

4.2.2 Performance requirements

The existing planning permit Planning Permit PR CH03-069-01 stipulates a range of

requirements to maintain public safety and minimise public nuisance through noise and

dust. This includes initial modifications to the road access, and erecting of relevant

signage. In addition to these stipulations the Permit Conditions – Environmental,

Schedule 2 specify the hours of operation and dampening of road surfaces and loads to

minimize potential noise and dust emissions.

4.2.3 Potential effects

The Traffic Assessment Report indicates that additional daily trips forecast due to the

proposed expansion are 12 trips, mostly body truck. The dairy alone was estimated to

result in 18 trips per day. Increased road usage may result in increased noise and dust

emissions related to road use. Increased traffic may also increase road safety risks for

operators and local residents.

4.2.4 Avoidance and mitigation measures

Widening of the road verge, improved signage and restricting haulage vehicle speeds

will be carried out to address the risks. A full description of site access, risks and

suggested mitigation activities are presented in Appendix 3.

Sealing a section of the road as per the Traffic assessment conclusions was considered

as a health matter. It is not considered an issue at present. The effects of the traffic

increment will be monitored in line with the 200 vehicles per day guideline in Appendix

3.

4.2.5 Assessment of effects

Annual review of complaints, incidents and mitigation will be undertaken and reported

to the EPA. Alternate access routes have been postulated to follow a track north from

the site, but it required access through several private properties and existing operating

quarries to the north. A second alternate route to the north west was found to cross

swampy land through private property.

4.3 Air emissions


The quarry has been operating on the site for over 10 years with no known complaints

due to dust emissions. The proponent intends to ensure that hours of production remain

within current limits, and that dust levels are controlled to ensure that neighboring

properties are unaffected.


Page 21

The prevailing weather regime mitigates the risk of nuisance dust and noise impacts.

Historical weather information for the Smithton region is presented in Appendix 2. The

prevailing winds are predominantly south westerly. The closest residential uses are all

located to the south and west of the site, so that wind will not carry dust from the quarry

or it surrounds towards these locations. The high rainfall is also a dust mitigating factor,

as is the natural springs that occur within the quarry area, keeping much of the base of

the pit moist. The wind rose for February, the driest month of the year demonstrates

that the predominant wind is also south westerly (Appendix 2), demonstrating that dust

issues are mitigated by natural weather conditions.

The distances of nearest residences taken from the entrance to the quarry site

summarized in Table 2 and their locations are presented in Figures 5 and 6.

Table 2 Distances to nearest residences shown in Figures 5 and 6

Residence Distance (m)

1 915

2 1030

3 850

4 1095

5 1170

6 1320

7 1420


The relevant legislative and policy requirements for the operation relating to air quality

include;

Environment Management and Pollution Control Act 1994 (TAS)

Workplace Health and safety Regulations 1998

Quarry Code of Practice 1999

National Environment Protection Measure (Air) varied 2003

Environment Protection (Air Quality) 2004.

The site also operates in accordance with Planning Permit PR CH03-069-01 from

Circular Head Council, which provides operating conditions stipulating that;

− Airborne dust from roads, disturbed areas or storage heaps or machinery must not

be emitted from the site to cause environmental nuisance.

− Trucks leaving the land and travelling on public roads must utilize effective dust

control including tarpaulins or load dampening.

− Traffic areas must be dampened when necessary to control dust emissions.


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− Dust produced by the operation of crushing and screening plant must be effectively

controlled by the use of one or more of the following methods

a) Fixed water sprays

b) Dust extraction equipment

c) Fully enclosed

d) Other method approved by the director in writing


An increase in production in an uncontrolled manner has the potential to increase

environmental nuisance to an unacceptable level, in terms of dust and noise emanating

from the site, but principally from truck transport.


The resource will be extracted in a semi-continuous operation that will minimize risk of

persistent dust emanating from the site or haulage. Water sprays and product wetting

are used to mitigate dust emanating from processing activities.

On the limited occasions when dust is likely to be a problem, a water truck will be on

standby to wet down the processing and traffic areas to minimize adverse effects. The

high rainfall is also a dust mitigating factor, as is the natural springs that occur within the

quarry area, keeping much of the base of the pit moist.


A complaints register exists and will continue to be used to monitor the effects of

upgrading. Annual review of complaints, incidents and mitigation will be undertaken and

reported to the EPA.

4.4 Surface water emissions


The runoff from the site operational area to the west is via a series of settling pits to a

single discharge point (see Figure 2). The discharge point is located beside the main

entry, and consists of a settling pit overflow. The flow then courses naturally to a farm

drain line approximately 300m to the west. Natural swampy conditions frequently result

in there being no actual flow into the drain line.

Potential pollutants are limited to sediment and oil & grease. There is a low potential for

acidic mine waters to be produced from this site due to the depth of weathering and the

lack of sulfidic sediments at this location.


Page 23

The present series of settling pits (silt traps) with approximately 60m² surface area are

regularly cleaned and the surface water leaving the site does not create any recognized

adverse impacts.


The relevant legislative and policy requirements to the operation include;

State Policy on Water Quality Management 1997

Water Management Act 1999 (TAS)

Quarry Code of Practice 1999.

Discharge water quality should meet requirements Tasmanian Department of Primary

Industries Parks Water and Environment guidelines for lowland water presented in

Table 3.

Table 3 Applicable guidelines for lowland water quality

Parameter Trigger Unit

pH 6.5-8

Conductivity 125-2200 µS/cm

Suspended solids 50 mg/L

Oil and grease 5 mg/L

The site also operates in accordance with Planning Permit PR CH03-069-01 from

Circular Head Council, which provides operating conditions stipulating that;

− Cutoff drains and settlement ponds be utilized to maximize sediment retention

on site.

− All storm water from the site must be collected and treated to prevent pollution

of watercourses by solids or discoloured water

− Sediment settlement ponds will be periodically cleaned and materials removed

placed so that they will not be transported off site.


The existing primary sediment trap is capable of managing water flows from the Stage 1

extraction areas. The total developed area of Stage 1 is 3 hectares. Of this area

approximately 2.6 hectares is extraction area with a high absorption capacity (fractured

rock) and 0.4 hectares is devoted to processing and stockpiling.

The limited potential for presence of contaminants, the degree of filtering through both

silt ponds and vegetated drain lines into a swampy area, and the lack of water use by


Page 24

either humans or stock, greatly limit any potential for environmental harm or health

effects.


Installation of gravel flow through barriers will be installed in sequence along the

existing settlement drain. The barriers will induce ponding of water and settlement of

solids in traps prior to discharge.

Maintenance of settling ponds will be also be periodically undertaken to ensure

adequate function of the ponds as silt traps. The capacity of the pond size and retention

ability will be expanded as the quarry area expands as the work rate intensifies. The

quarry workings will move away from the surface water site discharge point allowing the

pond size to be expanded incrementally up to 100m² to ensure the surface water

leaving the site complies with guideline requirements.

Hydrocarbon spill kits are maintained on site for use if significant quantities of

hydrocarbons are lost from plant or equipment.


Given the small size of the operation and nature of the discharge, an ongoing

assessment is planned through the annual performance review confirming that

settlement ponds have been maintained and are functioning. Inspection of the

discharge area will also be undertaken and if negative impacts are identified a

management plan will be implemented in liaison with the EPA

4.5 Noise emissions


No complaints have been received during quarry’s operational history. During normal

crushing and screening, the noise emitted from the quarry is almost inaudible.

Major sources of noise on the site include a Crusher, Screening plant, a Loader, a

contract excavator and/or bulldozer. There will be no blasting. All of the above plant and

equipment operate only part time, e.g. seasonally, and on demand. The loader is the

most frequently used plant.

The potential for noise emissions from this quarry to cause noise nuisance for nearby

land users is low. Topographical features provide the most effective ‘in line’ reduction of

sound levels and there is a barrier of natural rock which forms an effective attenuation

and shield in all directions (Figure 3). The rock barrier is up to 5m high to the West and

10m high towards the East, formed by the open pit highwall.


Page 25

The protection offered by the topographical features as shown Figure 3 viewed in

conjunction with Figure 6 demonstrates that mining is within a natural amphitheatre and

noise exposure is only to the south west, into the prevailing wind (see Appendix 2). The

ability to create public noise nuisance or impact upon fauna >500m is not considered to

be significant.



Environment Management and Pollution Control Act 1994 (TAS)

Environment Protection and Pollution Control (Miscellaneous Noise) Regulations

2004

DEPHA Quarry Code of Practice 1999.

To comply with the Environmental Management and Pollution Control (Miscellaneous

Noise) Regulations 2004 the noise emitted by the crusher and screen, excavator and

loader needs to be less than 103 dB when measured from 7.5 metres away. The

Environment Management and Pollution Control Act 1994 (TAS) requires that noise

emissions from an industry must not create a nuisance. The Quarry Code of Practice

states that an acceptable standard is a noise level of 10 dB above ambient levels. For

operations with extended working hours (outside 07:00 to 19:00 weekdays and 08:00 to

16:00 weekends) or where sensitive uses are likely to be affected a level of 5 dB above

ambient is acceptable.


The increase in production level will not increase the intensity of noise from the site.

The majority of noise emanating from the operations will be from truck transport along

Purdys Road.


The proponent intends to ensure that hours of production, remain within current limits,

and that noise levels are controlled to ensure that neighboring properties remain

unaffected. It is deemed that there is an appropriate separation distance to enable any

noise to decay to an acceptable level to the nearest neighbour >800 metres to the

south west.

The quarry will be developed in accordance with the prescribed mining and operations

plan in order to contain and deflect excess noise from operations to within the

amphitheatre to be formed by the quarry faces.

Improvements to the road access will be made in line with the recommendations in

Appendix 3.


Page 26


A complaints register will be held by the proponent and any complaints will be recorded.

Subsequent to the annual review of performance, if noise complaints are an issue, a

management plan will be implemented in liaison with the EPA.

4.6 Solid and controlled wastes


There is no waste generated by the quarrying or treatment operations. The operation

manages its waste appropriately by using techniques as below:

waste avoidance; all materials extracted are used in production, except for the topsoil

used in rehabilitation.

waste recycling/reclamation; Oversize stone is crushed to add to screened product

where necessary. The upper layers of soil are reused to rehabilitate the re-landscaped

site on completion of mining.

waste re-use; water used for dust suppression is recycled and reused

waste treatment to reduce potentially adverse effects; Waste water is treated by

directing through settlement ponds to control sediment.

waste disposal. Minor litter and scrap is removed to controlled domestic waste sites.


The relevant legislative and policy requirements relative to waste generation for the site

include;

− Environment Management and Pollution Control Act 1994 (TAS)

− Environment Management and Pollution Control (Waste Management)

Regulations 2000

− Quarry Code of Practice 1999.


Failure to manage overburden materials effectively may result loss of materials via

erosion and reduced ability to use them for progressive rehabilitation.


Stockpiled topsoil materials and overburden will be placed to the south of the main

quarry area. While the material is stockpiled vegetation will establish on the materials


Page 27

also assisting forming a natural visual and limit erosion of materials. The stockpiled

topsoil materials will be periodically used for progressive rehabilitation of the site.

All scrap metal or other recyclable materials will be stored on site until sufficient

quantities are available to warrant collection by scrap metal merchants.

Remove all putrescible waste from site for proper disposal.


Review of closure plans and progressive rehabilitation will be assessed on an annual

basis during the annual performance review.

4.7 Biodiversity and natural values


Assessment of existing biodiversity and natural values has been undertaken as part of

a flora and fauna assessment. The results of this assessment are presented in

Appendix 5. This study did not identify any specific rare or threatened species on site. A

fauna habitat survey, identifying suitable habitat for a range of species of interest was

included in the vegetation study. Any areas of potentially suitable habitat are not

included in areas proposed for mining. The location of White Bellied Sea Eagles nests

to the east of the quarry site and within the Conservation Area surrounding Lake.

The site is an operational quarry that undertakes mining, crushing, screening and

haulage activities. Noise and dust emissions are mitigated by the location of the layout

of the site and practices of in pit crushing and screening. The site is private property,

and is fully enclosed by a rural barbed wire stock fence.



Crown Lands Act 1976 (Tas)

Forest Practices Act 1985 (TAS)

Threatened Species Protection Act 1995 (TAS)

Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth)

Quarry Code of Practice 1999

Forest Practices Code 2000


Page 28


The area of disturbance will progressively increase overtime as outlined in the mining

plans presented in Figure 4. The progressive expansion of the pit size will not impact

upon remnant vegetation identified in the Flora and Fauna assessment.

The practice of in pit operation and progressive rehabilitation will result in no significant

impacts to flora and fauna outside of the operational area.


The recommendations of the flora and fauna assessment (Appendix 5) will be

implemented as part of noise mitigation (Section 4.5.4). The remnant vegetation on the

site, within areas not planned for mining, will remain and be enhanced. Vegetation

screens will be maintained on the western side of the quarry. The worked-out locations

of the quarry will be progressively rehabilitated with topsoil materials, with revegetation

encouraged to limit erosion and sustain visual screens.

The quarry will be developed in accordance with the prescribed mining and operations

plan in order to contain and deflect excess noise from operations to within the

amphitheatre to be formed by the quarry faces.

Weed spraying will be conducted as necessary to limit spread of declared weeds.


A review of changes in legislation or identification of biodiversity or conservation

significance and applicability to the operation will be completed as part of the annual

performance review.

4.8 Land use and development


The operational area straddles a region with a capability rating of 6 (Land marginally

suited to grazing due to severe limitations). The eastern edge of the lease straddles an

area of rating 4-5. The area of lesser quality agricultural land is related to soils forming

part of the Beacom Hills Range, and is the host to several other quarries.


The proposed operation will not impact land capability and is inline with the State Policy

on the Protection of Agricultural Land 2009.


Page 29


Under this DP&EMP, the area of disturbance will increase over time and the likely

impact is presented in Figure 4, Mine sketch plans Years 1-15+, as part of the Section

2.2.10 Project schedule.

The proposal seeks an increase in the rate of development.


Mining plans are presented in Figure 4 and demonstrate potential extent of land

disturbance. Areas outside of the mining lease will not be impacted.


Periodic review of mining plans and operations will be conducted on an annual basis.

4.9 Groundwater

The quality and quantity of the region’s groundwater resources will not be affected by

the proposal. Small ground water springs occur in the floor of the quarry, and all flow

from the quarry area is directed away from the neighbouring water catchment.

4.10 Dangerous goods

No hydrocarbons are stored onsite and there will be no blasting on the site.

Diesel fuel will be brought to site in a 200 litre container mounted on a utility. The utility

will be parked in a safe area adjacent the store container, which also holds a

hydrocarbon spill kit.

4.11 Greenhouse gas and ozone depleting substances

Sources of greenhouse gas emissions are limited to combustion of hydrocarbons in the

mobile and fixed plant used in excavation, processing and haulage. Emissions are not

considered to be significant and do not exceed thresholds for reporting under the

National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting Act 2007.

4.12 Heritage

No areas of Aboriginal or European heritage concerns are evident on the site. The EPA

Division has advised that Aboriginal heritage studies or surveys have not been

requested by Aboriginal Heritage Tasmania in relation to the proposal.


Page 30

4.13 Visual effects

The visual disturbance will not alter from that already approved by the current mining

lease and the current Planning Permit. The majority of the quarry site is shielded from

view to the west by a ridge of rock, which forms part of the lease boundary, and the

Beacom Range on the east. The stockpiling of overburden materials and progressive

revegetation of materials will result in additional screening of the site.

4.14 Socio-economic issues

Under this proposal, the visual amenity and the land valuations within the buffer zone

for crushing screening that already exists surrounding the site will not alter from that

already approved by the current mining lease and the current Planning Permit. The rate

of labour and plant usage (e.g. employment of contractors, consultants and machinery

hire) will increase, resulting in a greater short term improvement in the local economy.

4.15 Health, Safety and security

The quarry operates under the Workplace Health and Safety Act 1995 and Workplace

Health and Safety Regulations 1998, as well as the Quarry Code of Practice 1999.

Whilst the site is private property, and is fully enclosed by a rural barbed wire stock

fence, there is a possibility of trespassers gaining access. The main access roadway is

secured by a chain with appropriate signage. The quarry will have high faces that could

present a health and safety risk to the public. Heavy earthmoving operations pose a

level of risk to employees working on the site.

4.16 Environmental management systems

This document forms the basis for future environmental management systems. The

environmental management plan supported by an organizational structure is described

below;

Responsible officer: Mr. Allan Lord

Position: Director Allan Lord Holdings Pty Ltd


Page 31

5.0 Monitoring and review

Monitoring and review of performance will be undertaken on at least an annual basis for

the first 3 years, with the aim of extending the period of review subject to satisfactory

performance. Critical to this process will be a review of complaints and incidents. If

matters cannot be resolved to the satisfaction of the stakeholders then additional

management plans will be implemented in liaison with the EPA.

6.0 Decommissioning and rehabilitation

Mining lease 1398P/M is an area of 20 ha and is bounded by pastoral land to the west

and south, and native forest to the north and east. The life of the quarry is expected to

be >20 years with the majority of the 20 ha to be disturbed during the life of the

operation. Mine plans are presented in Figure 4 and demonstrate likely areas for

rehabilitation.

In general, as the extraction is progressed to the east to form a face that is then worked

north and the screening plant and stockpile areas are moved progressively to the north

as appropriate, allowing the southern face and floor to be rehabilitated. Soil from the

north of the pit will be moved directly to the southern end of the pit.

The final landform will be a topographic low with battered sides <5m high and maximum

15m depth. A series of settlement drains and shallow settlement ponds will be

established to minimize erosion and prevent loss of sediment off site.

A progressive rehabilitation strategy will be incorporated into the quarry operation. All

topsoil materials will be temporarily stockpiled prior to being used for rehabilitation.

Current total area of disturbance due to quarry activities is approximately 2.5ha. The

mine plan presented in Figure 4 demonstrates that the total area of disturbance during

operation will be limited to 3.5ha. The final landform will have shallow battered sides

with a land capability rating of 5-6.

Mr Allan Lord

Responsible officer/Site Manager

Casual mobile

plant operator

Contract haulage

operator

Casual fixed

plant operator

Maintenance

Contractors

Casual haulage

operator


Page 32

Progressive rehabilitation of the site has commenced, with areas sterilized by mining

now used to store topsoil. Revegetation will be enhanced by seeding and not be limited

to natural colonization by grasses if an acceleration in rehabilitation is merited.

Management of weeds by periodic spraying will be undertaken.

All plant and equipment will be removed. The site facilities include no significant fixed

pant or equipment.

7.0 Commitments

Commitments for the ongoing operation of the site are summarized in Table 4.

Table 4 Summary of commitments


completion

1. Complaints/

incident register

Maintain a register of all complaints and incidents

related to the operation including haulage along

Purdys Road.

Ongoing

2. Traffic Widening of the road verge, improved signage

and restricting haulage vehicle speeds will be

carried out to address the risks.

December 2010

3. Dust When dust is likely to be a problem, a water truck

will be on standby to wet down the processing and

traffic areas to minimize adverse effects.

Ongoing

4. Surface water Maintenance of settling ponds will be periodically

undertaken to ensure adequate function of the

ponds as silt traps.

Ongoing

5. Surface water Hydrocarbon spill kits are maintained on site for

use if significant quantities of hydrocarbons are

lost from plant or equipment

Ongoing

6. Noise Hours of operation will be in accordance with

those specified in the Quarry Code of Practice.

Ongoing

7. Noise The quarry will be developed in accordance with

the prescribed mining and operations plan in order

to contain and deflect excess noise from

operations to within the amphitheatre to be formed

by the quarry faces.

Ongoing

8. Solid Waste The stockpiled topsoil materials will be periodically

used for progressive rehabilitation of the site

Ongoing

9. Scrap waste All scrap metal or other recyclable materials will

be stored on site until sufficient quantities are

available to warrant collection for recycle.

Ongoing

10. Waste Remove all putrescible waste from site for proper

disposal.

Ongoing


Page 33

Table 4 Summary of commitments (cont)

8.0 Conclusion

The most significant risk with expansion of the Purdys Quarry is the changes to traffic

flow on the access road. Other risks, such as dust, noise or surface water discharges

have been demonstrated to already have successful management systems existing in

the present operation, but further enhancements are planned with a series of 11

commitments.

Actions are planned to reduce the risk of changed traffic flows including modification to

road verges and road signage. In addition to this a Complaints Register will be

maintained to ensure that any feedback from the community, or incidents occurring

related to operation are recorded.

The outcome of the complaints/incidents will be reviewed annually for the first 3 years

to determine if the performance of the operation is satisfactory.

Quarry operations will include the progressive rehabilitation of sterilized areas with

overburden materials. With the final landform forming a shallow topographic low on the

margins of the Beacom Hills Range that will not significantly impact existing land

capability.


completion

11. Rehabilitation Limit the total area of disturbance from mining

activities to 3.5ha and implement a progressive

rehabilitation strategy

Ongoing

12. Annual review Unless otherwise specified by the Board of the

EPA monitoring and review of performance will be

undertaken on at least an annual basis for the first

3 years, with the aim of extending the period of

review subject to satisfactory performance.

July 2011


Page 34

9.0 References

DPIWE (1999). Quarry Code of Practice June 1999. Department of Primary Industries

Water and Environment. Retrieved February 18, 2010 from

http://www.environment.tas.gov.au/index.aspx?base=234

EPA (2008). General Guidelines for the preparation of a Development Proposal and

Environmental Management Plan for Level 2 Activities, Board of the Environment

Protection Authority November 2008. Retrieved February 18, 2010 from

http://www.epa.tas.gov.au/index.aspx?base=184


Page 35

Appendix 1 Land title certificate


Page 36


Page 37

Appendix 2 BOM weather data


Page 38


Page 39


Page 40


Page 41

Appendix 3 Traffic assessment


Page 42

Terry Eaton Consulting Engineer ABN 94 809 092 464

1st November, 2009 Mr I Ferris Environmental Services and Design PO Box 651 BURNIE 7320 Dear sir,

Traffic Assessment – Proposed Increased Quarry Production Purdy’s Road (off Irishtown Road)

An application is being made to increase gravel production from the present 20,000 tonnes

to 50,000 tonnes per annum for Purdy’s Quarry at the end of Purdy’s Road located off

Irishtown Road some 3.0 kilometres south of the Bass Highway junction.

This traffic assessment prepared by Terry Eaton an experienced traffic engineer is

provided for inclusion in the application for the increase in production.

1. Quarry Site

The quarry is situated at the eastern end of Purdy’s Road on the western slope of

Beacon Hill with access via Purdy’s Road with the quarry some 1.8 kilometres east

of Irishtown Road.

Abutting developments to Purdy’s Road includes 4 residences nearer the western

end located between 300 metres and 700 metres from Irishtown Road with a

milking shed and machinery sheds either side of the road just east of the last

residence. The road passes through pasture from the milking shed to the quarry.

29 Carey’s Road Bridgenorth Tas 7277

Tel/Fax: (03) 6330 1510


Page 43

2. Road Provisions

• Purdy’s Road

This road is considered a rural access road with uses to serve the frontage

residents (4 residences), a dairy farm with facilities including a milking shed

and farm implement/storage sheds and the quarry activities.

The road is constructed as a gravel surface some 5.4 metres wide from

Irishtown Road to the right angled turn some 300 metres from Irishtown

Road. The pavement is widened to some 6.0 metres at the corner reducing

to a single lane width varying between some 3.5 metres to 4.0 metres from

that turn to the quarry. Passing bays are installed on the Westside outside

the first Westside residence and approximately midway between the milking

shed and the quarry entrance.

Additional widening is provided at

the milking shed to cater for the

milk tanker turns.

The road profile is relatively flat

except for the 300 metre section

nearest the quarry as an upgrade

toward the quarry of some 8%.

The road standard is considered typical of low use rural access facilities with

use by motorists familiar with the conditions and a low speed environment ie

some 40 to 45 kmh.

The junction with Irishtown Road is constructed with a sealed section some

16 metres in length for exiting vehicles and some 10 metres for approaching

vehicles. The throat width is

some 21 metres at the holding

line with the additional width to

cater for the swept path for the

left turn from Irishtown Road.

Approach sight distance at the

junction was measured at some

260 metres to the north and in

excess of 300 metres to the

Widening at dairy

Junction layout


Page 44

south.

Signing includes a “Give Way” sign at Irishtown Road and an information

sign “Give Way To Trucks Use Passing Bays” to face traffic from Irishtown

Road some 300 metres in from that road.

1.0 Irishtown Road

This road is classified as a Category 3 road in the Council’s Planning

Scheme with the intent to facilitate connection between rural areas.

At Purdy’s Road the road is constructed with marked 3.0 metre traffic lanes

(centre line to edge line), 1 metre sealed shoulders and 1.0 metre gravel

shoulders. Additional gravel shoulder is provided opposite the Purdy’s Road

junction for use as a school bus stop.

The road is straight for some 200 metres to the south to a bend to the west

and some 300 metres to the north to a large radius curve. The road profile is

downhill from the south to the approach curve and then relatively flat past

Purdy’s Road.

The overall standard is considered consistent with the Category 3

classification.

3. Traffic Data

2.0 Irishtown Road

A sample traffic count indicates daily traffic use on Irishtown Road past

Purdy’s Road of some 1,350 to 1,500 vehicles. Limited traffic growth is

expected with a 2% per annum increase adopted as a likely worst case, i.e. a

year 2029 volume some 1.5 times the estimated present volume.

For analysis purposes a 10% ADT peak hour factor has been adopted

distributed 65% toward Smithton for the morning and away for the evening

peak hours respectively.


Page 45

• Purdy’s Road

� Residential at 8 two-way trips per dwelling per day - 32 trips

� Dairy farm - allow 18 trips

� Existing quarry at 20,000 tonnes/annum - allow 10 daily two-way trips for site operation

- allow for 8 loaded trucks per day

Total two-way trips 76

� Increase due to upgraded quarry activity to produce an additional 30,000 tonnes per annum - allow for additional 12

loaded trucks per day

Indicative worst case - total two-way traffic 100

4. Assessment

4.1 Traffic Safety

Advice from DIER crash information indicates no recorded accidents on

Purdy’s Road or at the Irishtown Road junction.

• Junction Irishtown Road / Purdy’s Road

The available approach sight distance for vehicles turning to Irishtown

Road is in excess of the DIER guidelines for a 100km/h speed zone – the

posted limit for Irishtown Road.

The approach gap time, minimum value 9 seconds at an approach speed

of 100km/h, is considered adequate for a turning semi-trailer to complete

the turns from Purdy’s Road to Irishtown Road.

• Pedestrians – Purdy’s Road

Pedestrian use of Purdy’s Road is likely to be low due to the small

number of houses and the rural location. One issue may be children

walking to and from the school bus at Irishtown Road. However, the


Page 46

increased truck use with the additional quarry activity is still likely to be

relatively low during school children use of Purdy’s Road. The

characteristics of gravel surface and alignment are indicative of low

speed operations.

The present width is considered adequate for the 300 metre east-west

section from Irishtown Road to

the first right angled bend for

pedestrians to walk at the

road edge. However the

standard for the 200 metre

north-south section is not

considered adequate to cater

for both truck use and

pedestrians. Indications are

that the west side verge could be cleared on this section extending to the

access to the last residence near the machinery shed to provide standing

space for any pedestrians.

4.1 Traffic Service

No traffic service issues are likely at the junction with Irishtown Road with the

predicted 2029 peak hour volumes of some 225 vehicles on Irishtown Road

and 10 vehicles on Purdy’s Road indicating a utilisation ratio of some .02.

The traffic volume on Purdy’s Road of some 100 vehicles per day is

indicative of a low use roadway with the gravel surface as satisfactory. Note

– some road authorities have adopted a volume of 200 vehicles per day as

the minimum value for surface sealing.

Relocation of the “Give Way To

Trucks Use Passing Bays” sign to

the left side of the approach from

Irishtown Road would improve

the visibility of this sign.

In terms of dust nuisance the location of the residences and the verge area shrubbery are seen as generally minimising any dust problems except at the milking shed – the

North-south section


Page 47

need for sealing and the extent of any sealing is seen as a public health

matter and beyond the scope of this report.

The traffic use beyond the milking shed is generally related to the quarry

operation with the present single lane provision and centrally placed passing

lay-by considered adequate for management of the truck traffic on this

section

5. Conclusions

A traffic assessment for a proposed extension of the quarry operations at the

eastern end of Purdy’s Road has found minimal traffic safety and traffic service

issues with the increased use. Some issues for further consideration are:

� Verge upgrading for the north-south leg to the entrance to the

furthest residence from Irishtown Road to provide for pedestrians to

stand clear of any passing trucks.

� Health consideration as to the extent of any surface sealing in

proximity to the milking shed.

� Relocation of the “Give Way To Trucks Use Passing Bay” sign to the

opposite side of Purdy’s Road.

Terry Eaton


Page 48

Appendix 4 Risk assessment and risk matrix


Page 49

Aspect/Hazard Activity Probability Consequnece Inherrent Risk Controls Probability Consequnece Residual Risk

Fuel and oils Fire during equipment operationKnown to

occurMinor High

Fire extingishers

Maintenance of plant and

equipment

Not likely to

occurMinor Low

Fuel and oilsRelease of hydrocarbons during

operation or breakdown

Known to

occurMinor High

No storage of bulk materials on

site

Maintenance of plant and

equipment

Waste management plans

Not likely to

occurMinor Low

ErosionErosion of stockpiles, batters and

banks

Not likely to

occurMinor Low

Vegetation allowed to establish

on top soil stockpiles Rare Minor Low

Solids in discharge Operation of quarryKnown to

occurMinor

High

Sediment collection sump

Progressive rehabilitation

Not likely to

occurMinor

Low

Flooding Innudation of excavationNot likely to

occurMinor Low

Diversions around pitRare Minor Low

TrafficVehicle accident during haulage of

products or other materialsCould occur Major High

Speed limits

Vehicle maintenance

TIR modifications

Not likely to

occurMajor High

RockfallInjury due to fall of ground during

excavation

Not likely to

occurModerate Moderate

Security fence

BattersRare Moderate Moderate

DustEmission of dust from site during

operation

Known to

occurMinor High

Ground water springs

Water cartCould occur Minor Moderate

NoiseGeneration of noise during mining,

processing and haulage

Known to

occurMinor High

Inpit operation shielded by rock

faces to west and east

Restricted operating hours

Isolated location

Not likely to

occurMinor Low

Flora and faunaSpread of weeds through ground

disturbance

Known to

occurModerate High Weed control activities

Not likely to

occurModerate Low

Flora and fauna Impact on endangered speciesKnown to

occurModerate High Periodic review of compliance

Not likely to

occurModerate Low

Waste materialsOperation of quarry generating

waste materials

Known to

occurMinor High

Waste management includes

use of all quarried materials

All putrescible waste taken to

council landfill

Beneficial reuse of materials

Not likely to

occurMinor Low

Viusal impactsOperation of quarry creating visual

impactCould occur Minor

Moderate

Natural relief screen

Vegetation screens

Not likely to

occurMinor

Low


Page 50

ConsequenceInsignificant Minor Moderate Major Catastrophic

Unlikely to result in adverse regulatory

response or action.

Minor non-compliances and breaches of

regulation or consent conditions. Not

likely to result in regulatory action, may

result in Infringement Notice. Incident

reportable to regulatory authorities.

Serious breach of regulation or consent

conditions w ith potential for regulatory action

such as issuance of a formal notice, a fine or

prosecution.

Major breach of regulation or consent condition

that is expected to attract regulatory attention.

Investigation, prosecution and/or major f ine

possible.

May be considered ‘w illful’ or ‘negligent’ by

regulator. Signif icant prosecution and fines

likely. May result in signif icant litigation,

including class actions. May jeopardise

future approvals.

Little or no stakeholder interest Minor, adverse local public or media

attention and complaints. Reputation is

adversely affected w ith a small number

of site-focused people.

Attention from local media and/or heightened

concern by local community. Criticism by NGO’s.

Environment credentials moderately affected.

Signif icant adverse national media/public/NGO

attention. Environment/management credentials

are signif icantly tarnished.

Serious public or media outcry (international

coverage). Damaging NGO campaign.

Licence to operate threatened, or may

jeopardise future approvals. Reputation

severely tarnished. Share price may be

affected.

<AUS $5000 AUS $5000 to $50,000 AUS $50,000 to $500,000 AUS $500 000 to $5M >AUS $5 million

Likelihood Description Frequency

Almost Certain Common repeating occurrence Daily

Likely Known to occur Monthly

Possible Could occur Yearly

Unlikely Not likely to occur Once in 10 years

Rare Practically impossible Less than once per 10 years

Injury and Disease - S

Report Only. No treatment required. First Aid Injury Medical Treatment Injury or Lost Time Injury Extensive injuries, permanent part disability Fatality(s) or permanent serious disability(s).

Environment Legal - L

Stakeholder/media interest - M

Total Estimated Cost - C

Environmental effects E

No discernable impact or measurable

impairment - for example, not exceeding

published guideline values for “normal” or

“background” levels. Internally reported

Minor effects on biological or physical

environment. Minor short-medium term

damage to a localized area or that

ceases once the event is over.

Measurable impairment on biological or physical

environment but not affecting ecosystem

function. Short-medium term impacts, w here the

ecosystem w ill recover quickly and w ithout

intervention.

Serious environmental effects w ith some

impairment of ecosystem function. Relatively

w idespread medium-long term impacts, requiring

remediation, w here ecosystem w ill recover over

time once clean-up has been completed.

Very serious environmental effects w ith

signif icant impairment of ecosystem function.

Long term, w idespread effects. Remediation

required.

Consequence

Frequency Insignificant Minor Moderate Major Catastrophic

Almost Certain Moderate High Extreme Extreme ExtremeLikely Moderate High High Extreme Extreme

Possible Low Moderate High High ExtremeUnlikely Low Low Moderate High Extreme

Rare Low Low Moderate High High


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Appendix 5 Fauna and flora habitat assessment


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PURDY’S ROAD QUARRY, IRISHTOWN: Proposed Increase in Production

VEGETATION ASSESSMENT, SURVEY of FLORA and FAUNA HABITAT

Ref: 4121 19th June 2009

Introduction:

An application to increase the annual production from the Purdy’s Road quarry by

Allan Lord Holdings Pty Ltd is to be made to the Tasmanian Environment Protection

Authority. Under the project specific guidelines of the DPEMP issued by the

Environment Protection Authority an assessment of the biodiversity and natural values

of the locality is required.

The DPEMP Project Specific Guidelines section 4.7 states under Biodiversity and

natural values that;

“In addition to the matters stipulated in Section 4.4 of the DPEMP General Guidelines

the DPEMP must contain the following:

• A threatened flora survey which must include, but not necessarily be limited to, the following species:

*Paterson’s Spider Orchid, Caladenia patersonii

*Showy Willowherb, Epilobium pallidiflorum

NB: It should be noted that orchid surveys will need to be conducted in the

appropriate season. If land disturbance is proposed prior to an orchid survey

being conducted then the area of disturbance and the nature of the disturbed

land must be detailed.

• A threatened fauna survey to determine the presence of the following species:

*Wedge-tailed Eagle, Aquila audax fleayi

*White-bellied Sea Eagle Haliaeetus leucogaster

*Masked Owl, Tyoto novae-hollandiae castanops

*Swift Parrot, Lathamus discolor

*Spotted-tailed Quoll, Dasyurus maculatus maculatus

*Eastern-barred Bandicoot Parameles gunnii


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• Two White-bellied Sea Eagle nests have been identified approximately 650 metres due east of the current quarry location. A management plan must be developed which includes mitigation strategies to minimise disturbance to these nests from quarry activities, (as a result of noise from rock crushing), especially where these nests are found to be actively used or potentially actively used.

Objectives:

The objectives of this survey were to:

• Undertake a desktop survey to confirm the known biological records and the natural values which may be present in the study area or in the vicinity.

• Undertake a site survey to observe and record the natural values present, including the vegetation types and plant communities, the flora and in particular any threatened species and the presence of any species or potential habitat of threatened fauna.

• Determine the potential impacts of the proposed increase in quarry production on the natural values present and make recommendations on how those impacts may be minimized.

• Address the implications of the activity on White-bellied Sea Eagle nest sites: strategies to limit impacts

Location of Study Area:

Purdys Road quarry comprises land described as PID 6237498, 21361/1, located at

RA238 Purdys Road, off Irishtown Road, Pulbeena, about 4km from Smithton.

The study area is located within the King Bioregion.

GRID REF: 345500E – 5472720N, (GDA 94) Centre point of property.

Site Description:

The property is located on the westward facing slopes of the Beacom Hills, a low,

partly forested range south-east of Smithton. The Beacom Hills forms part of the

drainage catchments of Deep Creek to the east and the Duck River about 4km to the

west.

The existing quarry is located in the south-west corner of the property with

approximately 60% of the site previously cleared and established to rough pasture.

The balance of the property is native forest which has been subject to selective

logging and partial clearing.

Adjacent property and land use to the south is undulating farmland largely cleared to

pasture and to the west is low lying and fully cleared farmland. Areas of native forest


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are located to the north and east of the property, the land to the east being a

dedicated timber reserve which extends down slope to Lake Mikany, the impoundment

on Deep Creek which provides Smithton’s water supply.

Desktop Survey of Natural Values:

The DPIW data base “The Natural Values Atlas” was accessed for the known

biological records of the locality and environs. Records of threatened species known

to occur within a 5,000 metre radius of the site were also accessed. Data sourced

included the vegetation types and plant communities, the occurrence of any

threatened plant communities, the locations of any threatened species of plants, and

threatened fauna known or expected to occur in the vicinity.

Desktop Survey Results:

PLANT COMMUNITIES: The following vegetation communities have been mapped

under the TasVeg mapping program as occurring within 1,000 metres of the site.

• Eucalyptus obliqua Dry Forest and Woodland, TasVeg Code DOB. This community is considered to be under-reserved in some regions and under-reserved in its old-growth condition statewide. This community is mapped within the property and is one of the two predominant communities in the location.

• Eucalyptus obliqua Wet Forest (undifferentiated), TasVeg Code WOU. Mapped within the property and is the other dominant community in the location.

• Eucalyptus nitida Wet Forest (undifferentiated), TasVeg Code WNU. Mapped to the north of the property.

• Leptospermum Scrub, TasVeg Code SLW). Two small mapped areas to the north of the property.

• Nothofagus / Atherosperma Rainforest, TasVeg Code RMT. Two small locations to the north-east of the property.

• Inland Heathland (undifferentiated), Tas Veg Code SHU. One limited location to the north-west of the site.

• Eucalyptus brookeriana Wet Forest, TasVeg Code WBR, is mapped as occurring from 1,500 metres to the north-east of the site, and may well have occurred along Deep Creek prior to inundation by the Lake Mikany reservoir. This community is listed as being vulnerable under the Tasmanian Nature Conservation Act 2002.


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Figure 7 Vegetation Communities as per TasVeg mapping program

within 1,000 metres of the study area reference point.

MAP LEGEND: DOB………… Eucalyptus obliqua Dry Forest and Woodland

WOU………...Eucalyptus obliqua Wet Forest (undifferentiated)

WNU………...Eucalyptus nitida Wet Forest (undifferentiated)

WBR…………Eucalyptus brookeriana Wet Forest

RMT ……..….Nothofagus / Atherosperma Rainforest

SLW ……..….Leptospermum Scrub

FAG …….…..Agricultural land

FUM ………..Gravel pits and quarries

FPL …………Plantations


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THREATENED FLORA: No species of threatened flora are recorded on the data base

as occurring within 1,500 metres of the property.

The following species of threatened flora are recorded on the Natural Values Atlas as

occurring within 5,000 metres of the property.

• Caladenia patersonii Paterson’s Spider Orchid is listed as vulnerable under the Tasmanian Act and is of very restricted distribution in near coastal situations between Stanley and Lulworth. Its known habitat is low shrubby and sedgy heathland in moist to well-drained sandy or clay-loam soils. There are two known records of the species from about 1974 and 1977 from within 3,000 metres of the site.

• Epilobium pallidiflorum the Showy Willow-herb is listed as rare under the Tasmanian Act. There are 3 records on the data base from 1995, 1999 and 2007, two of which are from within 3,000 metres of the site. This species inhabits wet places especially in the north and north-west of the state and is usually found growing in riparian and wet herbfield habitats. The areas around Edith Creek, Coventry Creek and Trowutta are considered to be key locations for the species.

• Pneumatopteris pennigera the Lime Fern is only known from the area as a single early record by L. Rodway in 1907 and it is most unlikely that it is still present. This species is endangered under the Tasmanian Act and has a very limited occurrence in the far north-west growing naturally only on limestone.

• Pterostylis falcata the Sickle Greenhood is listed as being rare under the Tasmanian Act and has been recorded only in the north-east highlands, the Tamar River valley and the far-north-west. The north-west occurrences of this orchid have now been assigned to a newly described (2006) species called Pterostylis lustra. There is one early record from close to the now built up area of Smithton by E. Atkinson in 1925 and it is most unlikely to still exist in this location. It has been recorded more recently in the Arthur River area. It is a summer flowering orchid (early November) from moist to wet habitats in open forests and shrub-lands and particularly near streams and swamps.

THREATENED FAUNA: There were no species of threatened fauna recorded on the

data base as occurring within 500 metres of the study area.

The Natural Values Atlas data base records the following species of fauna which are

listed under the Tasmanian Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 and/or the

Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 as

occurring within 5,000 metres of the study area.

• Aquila audax subsp. fleayi, the Wedge-tailed Eagle. The Tasmanian subspecies is listed as endangered (e, E), under both Tasmanian and Commonwealth Acts. There are 3 records from the locality, 2 of which are


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known nest sites within the forest on the eastern side of Lake Mikany. The species requires large trees within old-growth forest for successful nesting.

• Haliaeetus leucogaster, the White-bellied Sea-eagle is listed as vulnerable (v) in Tasmania. There are three records from the area including 2 known nest sites adjacent to the western shore of Lake Mikany about 650 metres from the quarry.

• Tyoto novae-hollandiae subsp. castanops, the Tasmanian subspecies of the Masked Owl is listed as endangered under the Tasmanian Act. There are two records from the area from 1996. The species requires large tree hollows and old-growth forest for its survival.

• Lathamus discolor, the Swift Parrot is endangered nationally. There are 3 records from the locality from 1994/95.

• Sarcophilus harrisii, the Tasmanian Devil is endangered in Tasmania and nationally. There is one 1975 record from the area.

• Dasyurus maculatus subsp. maculatus, the Spotted-tailed Quoll is listed as rare in Tasmania and vulnerable nationally. There are 8 records from the locality dated between 1977 and 1995.

• Parameles gunnii, the Eastern-barred Bandicoot is listed as vulnerable under the Commonwealth Act. There are 4 records from the locality between 1985 and 1992.

• Astacopsis gouldi, the Giant Tasmanian Lobster is listed as vulnerable under both Acts. There is only one early record from 1946 from the locality.

• Limnodynastes peroni, the Striped Marsh Frog is endangered in Tasmania and is known from one 1993 record.

The following threatened species could occur within 5,000 metres of the study area

based on habitat mapping within the known geographical range of each.

• Accipiter novae-hollandiae, the Grey (White) Goshawk, (e). • Beddomeia wisea, a Hydrobiid Snail, (v). • Ceyx azurea, the Azure Kingfisher, (e). • Galaxiella pusilla, the Dwarf Galaxia, (v, VU). • Littoria reniformis, Green and Gold Frog, (v,VU). • Prototroctes maraena, the Grayling, (v, VU). • Tasmaphena lamproides, Keeled Snail, (r).

Field Survey: The field survey was undertaken on 4th June 2009.

Methodology: The field survey was undertaken on foot over the area of the property,

including the boundary lines and the remnant natural vegetation and forest. Vascular

plant species were recorded, vegetation communities were observed and cross-

referenced with the TasVeg map sourced from the Natural Values Atlas.

Limitations: The survey was conducted in early June when many species of plants

are past flowering. No botanical survey can guarantee that all flora will be observed


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and recorded in a single survey in one year due to variation in abundance and

possible absence of flowers and fertile material for identification. Ephemeral species

which may have been present includes orchids, lilies, herbs, grasses and other

graminoids. However, all significant species known to occur in the study area and its

environs have been considered in this report.

Field Survey Results: The south-western 40% of the property is rough pasture and

this includes the present extent of the quarry, located in the south-west corner. The

balance is Eucalypt forest which has been partially cleared, selectively logged, as well

as tracked and cleared along the boundary line. Where partially cleared the regrowth

vegetation is dominated by scrubby species such as Leptospermum scoparium. A

small dam has been excavated in the low lying area in the north-east corner of the

property. The native vegetation on the property has also been subject to bush run

cattle grazing.

The vegetation communities on the property comprised Eucalyptus obliqua Dry Forest

(DOB) in the north-west corner and the south-east portion where the ground

conditions were drier and slightly elevated and this is in accordance with the TasVeg

mapping of the location. Most of the trees present were regrowth about 40 to 60 years

old although two mature Eucalyptus obliqua which could be classed as old-growth

were observed in this area of the property. GRID REF: 345624E – 5472710N and

345680E – 5472779N.

The lower lying and moister area which extended from the centre of the property to the

north-east corner was comprised of Eucalyptus brookeriana Wet Forest (WBR) which

had a Melaleuca squarrosa/ Leptospermum understorey and a sedgy ground layer,

which is a community listed as threatened under the Tasmanian Nature Conservation

Act 2002.

Under the TasVeg mapping this area of forest was included with adjacent areas of

Eucalyptus obliqua Wet Forest (WOB). As the area has been partially cleared and

selectively logged in relatively recently times most of the Eucalyptus obliqua may have

been removed leaving Eucalyptus brookeriana as the predominant tree species.


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THREATENED VEGETATION COMMUNITIES: Eucalyptus brookeriana Wet Forest

(WBR) is listed as a vulnerable community under the Tasmanian Nature Conservation

Act 2002. 95% of this community remaining in Tasmania occurs in this far north-west

corner of the state, where it often occurs on alluvial deposits adjacent to streams,

around the margins of Blackwood swamp forest or in association with Eucalyptus

obliqua Forest. Although in a disturbed condition, having been partially cleared and

selectively logged the community is outside the proposed quarry zone and should be

retained and allowed to regenerate to form part of the buffer to the quarry operations.

THREATENED FLORA: No species of threatened flora listed under the Tasmanian

Threatened Species Consevation Act 1995 or the Commonwealth Environment

Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 was observed or recorded during

the field survey.

• Epilobium pallidiflorum the Showy Willow-herb is a species of poorly drained and swampy places and all possible habitats on the property were investigated. The species was not present and no optimum habitats were observed. The species would be more likely found along drainage lines and wet places in the low lying country to the west of this site.

• Caladenia patersonii Patersons Spider Orchid flowers during October and early November and was therefore not observed during this field survey. This area is within the known distribution of the species, however it is of very limited occurrence and has been recorded from low shrubby or sedgy heathland on well drained sandy or clay-loam soils in contrast to the mainly Eucalyptus obliqua Forest on this site. A single orchid leaf was observed on the eastern property boundary at GRID Ref: 345732E – 5472870N, however it could not be positively identified without a flower. The vegetation community on this property is not recognized as optimum habitat for Caladenia patersonii and it is considered unlikely that the species is present, however a follow-up survey in October would be necessary for confirmation.

• Pneumatopteris pennigera the Lime Fern is a species restricted to limestone in the far north-west of the state. There is no natural limestone on the property and the species was not present.

• Pterostylis falcata (syn Pterostylis lustra) the Western Sickle Greenhood flowers in early November and was not observable at this time of year. The vegetation on the property is not considered to be preferred habitat for the orchid and it is not likely to be present. There are no recent records for the species within 5,000 metres of the site.

THREATENED FAUNA and THREATENED FAUNA HABITAT: Of the nine species of

threatened fauna previously recorded from within 5,000 metres of the quarry only

three were confirmed as having been present either on the property or within the


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forest between the property and Lake Mikany; the Tasmanian Devil, the White-bellied

Sea-eagle and the Wedge-tailed Eagle. There was some potential habitat on the

property for the Eastern Barred Bandicoot and the Spotted-tailed Quoll, and for the

Grey (White) Goshawk in the adjacent forest although none were observed.

• Aquila audax subsp. fleayi, the Wedge-tailed Eagle was not observed during the field survey of the property or near Lake Mikany. There have however been recent sightings over Lake Mikany and there are two recorded nest sites within the forest on the eastern side of Lake Mikany about 3,000 metres from this quarry site.

• Halaeetus leucogaster, there are two recorded nest trees of the White-bellied Sea-eagle on the western shoreline of Lake Mikany about 650 metres from this quarry site. The species was not observed during the survey as it is the off season for breeding and the nest would not be in use. Although the quarry is not in the direct line of sight to the nest trees the quarry operators need to be aware of the proximity of these nests and take appropriate measures in regard to noise and visual impact, particularly in the breeding season to ensure that the birds are not unduly disturbed or impacted.

• Accipiter novae-hollandiae, the Grey (White) Goshawk. Potential habitat was observed in the forested area between the property and the western shore of Lake Mikany, however the species was not observed during the survey and there are no previous records for the locality.

• Tyoto novae-hollandiae subsp. castanops. No old-growth trees with large hollows which may be potential nest trees for the Masked Owl were observed on the property and no indicators of the species presence was observed during the survey.

• Lathamus discolor, the Swift Parrot migrates to mainland Australia for the winter and would not have been present at the time of the survey. The parrots may visit the property during their Tasmanian presence from spring to autumn to feed on flowering Eucalypts, however the property is not considered to be prime feeding or nesting habitat for the species and a further survey is not considered necessary.

• Parameles gunnii, there was some potential habitat (food and shelter) for the Eastern-barred Bandicoot within the area of the property previously cleared and now rough pasture, however no indications that the species was present was observed during the survey.

• Astacopsis gouldi, the only potential but marginal habitat for the Giant Tasmanian Lobster was the small dam in the north-east corner of the property which will not be affected by the quarry development.

• Limnodynastes peroni, the Striped Marsh Frog and Littoria raniformis the Green and Gold Frog were not observed during the survey but may also be present in the small dam which will not be affected by the quarry. However the dam is not considered to be optimum habitat for either species.

• Sarcophilus harrisii, the Tasmanian Devil was confirmed as present on the property by scats which were observed in the vicinity of the small dam in the north-east corner of the property. There is likely to be an established population


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of the species which includes the area between this property and Lake Mikany as its territory. The degree of forest and vegetation disturbance on the property itself makes it most unlikely that any devils have established dens and no potential den sites were observed during the survey.

• Dasyurus maculatus subsp. maculatus, the Spotted-tailed Quoll would most likely occur in the general locality although no indicators of the species presence were observed during the survey. A spotlight survey would be necessary to confirm the species presence although the degree of habitat disturbance on the property would indicate that the species would not be a resident.

ENVIRONMENTAL WEEDS: The remnant forest and vegetation on the property was

relatively weed free although thistles were becoming established where there had

been ground disturbance by machinery and vehicles.

The only declared weed observed during the survey was three bushes of Gorse Ulex

europeus within a 10 metres radius of GRID Ref: 345703E – 5472781N. As a declared

weed and a weed of national significance it is required that these weeds are controlled

and it is also highly desirable while the weed is only present in low numbers.


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Figure 2: Photomap of property with vegetation observed during the site survey

Survey Conclusions:

The vegetation community Eucalyptus brookeriana Wet Forest (WBR) is a listed

community under the Tasmanian Nature Conservation Act 2002 however it has

previously been selectively logged and partially cleared on the property. The majority

of this community is outside of the quarry extension zone.

No species of threatened flora was observed on the property during the survey. No

potential habitat was observed on the property for the threatened species Epilobium

pallidiflorum. A follow-up spring survey would be necessary to confirm the presence or

absence of the threatened orchid Caladenia patersonii.

The presence of the threatened Tasmanian Devil on the property was confirmed

during the survey.

The proximity of two nest trees of the White-bellied Sea-eagle on the western shore of

Lake Mikany within 650 metres of the quarry will need to be considered in the

operation of the quarry.

One declared environmental weed, namely Gorse Ulex europaeus was recorded

during the survey and will require attention.

Recommendations:

1. Vegetation Management:

• Retain the remnant forest and vegetation outside of the quarry extent, including the threatened vegetation community Eucalyptus brookeriana Wet Forest, and allow to regenerate. This area should be retained as a visual and sound buffer between the quarry and the forested area which extends to the western shoreline of Lake Mikany where the nest trees of the White-bellied Sea-eagle are located. This will also serve to retain some habitat on the property for the Tasmanian Devil and potentially for the Spotted-tailed Quoll.

• Fence off the south-east corner of the property and allow to regenerate for the same purpose. The Sea-eagle nest trees are located in a line south-east of the property.

• Progressively revegetate worked-out locations of the quarry in accordance with the Quarry Code of Practice.

2. White-bellied Sea-eagle:


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• Develop the quarry in accordance with the prescribed mining and operations plan in order to contain and deflect excess noise from operations to within the amphitheatre to be formed by the quarry faces.

• Ensure that all quarrying operations are carried out below the level of natural surface in order to deflect noise and limit the visual impact of activities by machinery and equipment.

• Standing equipment such as screens or crushers should be stationed on the floor of the quarry to limit noise and visual effects.

• Follow noise limit protocols particularly during the breeding season of the Sea-eagle from September through to December each year.

• No blasting operations within the quarry between September and December. It is understood that no blasting operations are proposed for the quarry.

• Ensure that all employees and contractors on site are aware of the above requirements.

3. Patersons Spider Orchid Caladenia patersonii:

• Undertake a site survey of the remnant vegetation on the property during October to determine if the Patersons Spider Orchid is present, as required by the Project Specific Guidelines from the Environment Protection Authority.

4. Environmental Weed Management.

• Manage and control Gorse observed on the property.

Philip Milner

Vegetation Consultant


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APPENDIX 1: Vegetation Communities and Species Recorded

1. Eucalyptus obliqua Dry Forest (TasVeg Code DOB)

This community is widespread and extensive in north, north-west east and south-east

Tasmania from sea level to about 600 metres. The community is extensively utilized

for forestry purposes and is considered to be under-reserved in some regions of the

state and in its old-growth form it is considered to be under-reserved state wide. The

community in this location has a relatively open understorey probably due to past land

management practices and it includes species commonly associated with a wet forest

community.

DOMINANT TREES

Eucalyptus obliqua Stringy Bark

SECONDARY TREES

Eucalyptus nitida Western Peppermint

Acacia melanoxylon Blackwood

UNDERSTOREY TREES / LARGE SHRUBS

Acacia mucronata Caterpillar Wattle

Acacia verticillate Prickly Moses

Pomaderris apetala Dogwood

Nematolepis squamea Satinwood

Ziera arborescens Stinkwood

MEDIUM SHRUBS

Cassinia aculeate Dollybush

Leptospermum scoparium Manuka

Monotoca sp A Broomheath

Olearia lirata Forest Daisybush

Pultenaea daphnoides Native Daphne


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SMALL SHRUBS

Epacris impressa Common Heath

Gonocarpus teucroides Common Raspwort

Pimelea linifolia Slender Riceflower

HERBS & Herb-like Plants

Acaena novae-zelandiae Buzzy

Senecio sp. A Fireweed

GRASSES & GRAMINOIDS

Drymophila cyanocarpa Turquoise Berry

Gahnia grandis Cutting Grass

Lepidosperma elatius Tall Swordsedge

ORCHIDS

Chiloglottis sp. A Bird-orchid

FERNS & ALLIED PLANTS

Pteridium esculentum Bracken


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2. Eucalyptus brookeriana Wet Forest (TasVeg Code WBR)

This community occur mainly in the King Bioregion with less than 5% in other

bioregions. In the north-west of the state the community occurs adjacent to Blackwood

swamps on flats and in wet forests often associated with Eucalyptus obliqua. The

community is listed as vulnerable under the Nature Conservation Act 2002 and is

considered to be under-reserved across the state including in its old-growth form.

DOMINANT TREES

Eucalyptus brookeriana Brookers Gum

SECONDARY TREES

Eucalyptus obliqua Stringy Bark

Acacia melanoxylon Blackwood

UNDERSTOREY TREES / LARGE SHRUBS

Acacia mucronata Caterpillar Wattle

Acacia verticillate Prickly Moses

Leptospermum scoparium Manuka

Nematolepis squamea Satin Wood

Melaleuca squarrose Scented Paperbark

Monotoca sp. A Broomheath

Ziera arborescens Stinkwood

MEDIUM SHRUBS

Ozothamnus ferrugineus Tree Everlastingbush

CLIMBING PLANTS

Billardiera longifolia Climbing Blueberry

Muehlenbeckia gunnii Macquarie Vine

HERBS & HERB-LIKE PLANTS


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Gonocarpus micranthus Creeping Raspwort

Hydrocotyle sp. A Pennywort

Pratia pedunculate Matted Pratia

ORCHIDS

Caladenia sp (in leaf only)

GRASSES & GRAMINOIDS

Baloskion tetraphyllum Tassel Cordrush

Carex appressa longleaf Tallsedge

Centrolepis strigosa Hairy Bristlewort

Gahnis grandis Cutting Grass

Juncus procera Tall Rush

Juncus sp. A Rush

Lepidosperma elatius Tall swordsedge

FERNS & ALLIED PLANTS

Dicksonia antarctia Soft Treefern

Histiopteris incisa Bat’swing Fern

Hypolepis rugulosus Ruddy Groundfern

Pteridium esculentum Bracken

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