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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
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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.
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Nothing in this Disclaimer affects any rights or remedies to which you may be entitled under the Trade Practices Act 1974 (as amended).
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Allan Lord Holdings Pty Ltd - Purdys Quarry DP&EMP May 2010 Environmental Service and Design Pty Ltd – PAF #4191
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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]
Allan Lord Holdings Pty Ltd - Purdys Quarry DP&EMP May 2010 Environmental Service and Design Pty Ltd – PAF #4191
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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”.
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Figure 2 Site location plan
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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
4.3.1 Existing conditions
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.
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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
4.3.2 Performance requirements
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
4.3.3 Potential effects
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.
4.3.4 Avoidance and mitigation measures
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.
4.3.5 Assessment of effects
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
4.4.1 Existing conditions
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.
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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.
4.4.2 Performance requirements
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.
4.4.3 Potential effects
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
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either humans or stock, greatly limit any potential for environmental harm or health
effects.
4.4.4 Avoidance and mitigation measures
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.
4.4.5 Assessment of effects
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
4.5.1 Existing conditions
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.
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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.
4.5.2 Performance requirements
The relevant legislative and policy requirements to the operation include;
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.
4.5.3 Potential effects
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.
4.5.4 Avoidance and mitigation measures
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.
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4.5.5 Assessment of effects
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
4.6.1 Existing conditions
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.
4.6.2 Performance requirements
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.
4.6.3 Potential effects
Failure to manage overburden materials effectively may result loss of materials via
erosion and reduced ability to use them for progressive rehabilitation.
4.6.4 Avoidance and mitigation measures
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
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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.
4.6.5 Assessment of effects
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
4.7.1 Existing conditions
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.
4.7.2 Performance requirements
The relevant legislative and policy requirements to the operation include;
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
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4.7.3 Potential effects
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.
4.7.4 Avoidance and mitigation measures
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.
4.7.5 Assessment of effects
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
4.8.1 Existing conditions
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.
4.8.2 Performance requirements
The proposed operation will not impact land capability and is inline with the State Policy
on the Protection of Agricultural Land 2009.
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4.8.3 Potential effects
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.
4.8.4 Avoidance and mitigation measures
Mining plans are presented in Figure 4 and demonstrate potential extent of land
disturbance. Areas outside of the mining lease will not be impacted.
4.8.5 Assessment of effects
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.
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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
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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
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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
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
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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.
Subject Commitment Forecast
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
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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
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Appendix 1 Land title certificate
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Appendix 2 BOM weather data
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Appendix 3 Traffic assessment
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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
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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
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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.
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• 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
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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
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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
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Appendix 4 Risk assessment and risk matrix
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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
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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