felltimber creek nature conservation reserve...2017, the aboriginal cultural heritage due diligence...

Felltimber Creek Nature Conservation Reserve

Mountain Bike Trail Network

Environmental Assessment

Prepared for

Parklands Albury-Wodonga

March 2018

94 Kirby Flat Road, Yackandandah, VIC 3749

Phone: 0402 344 574 ABN: 797 823 838 29

[email protected]

All rights reserved. No part of this document may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without the written approval of Red---Gum Environmental Consulting. The content of this Report is based on all available information at the time of preparation. Management Actions and recommendations are based on best practice methods that are current industry standards. Red---Gum Environmental Consulting is not responsible

for the outcomes of activities undertaken based on this Report.

Version 2, 7/3/18

Environmental Assessment Swainsona & McFarlanes Hill NCRs

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Felltimber Creek Nature Conservation Reserve (“the reserve”) consists of McFarlanes Hill (aka Hunchback Hill) and Swainsona reserves in West Wodonga have become increasingly popular with walkers, mountain bikers (from beginners to advanced standards), trail runners, orienteers, photographers, birdwatchers and other day-use only visitors. The Wodonga Hills Activation Strategy (Gondwana Consulting, 2016) and the Hunchback Hill Masterplan (CoW, 2016) set out strategies to increase visitor numbers to the site, including proposals to expand the network of walking tracts, improve cycling facilities, add visitor facilities and the potential for vehicle access to particular vantage points. The plan also identifies areas of conservation priority and offset areas.

To date, 119 ha of the total reserve area has been fenced to exclude stock. Cattle grazing under an annual lease is managed by Parklands Albury-Wodonga (PAW) on the remaining 116 ha of the NCR.

The majority of the mountain bike trail network has been constructed in a largely hap-hazard fashion with majority of mountain bike trails in particular, being ‘riden-in’ over existing animal tracks and/or constructed without any formal cultural heritage due-diligence assessment, planning or consideration of appropriate design and siting principles.

This has resulted in a degree of environmental impact on remnant native vegetation (which includes threatened species) and available native fauna habitat. The reserves contain habitats that are likely to support a range of reptile species (in particular) including the federal Environment Protection Biodiversity Conservation Act (EPBC Act) listed Pink-tailed worm lizard (Aprasia parapulchella) and the Woodland blind snake (Ramphotyphlops Proximus) listed as Near Threatened in Victoria. Although not recorded during the survey period for this assessment, there is also a reasonable chance of both reserves supporting threatened mammals including the Brush-tailed Phascogale (Phascogale tapoatafa) and Squirrel Glider (Petaurus norfolcensis), both Flora & Fauna Guarantee Act (FFG Act) listed species.

A known population of Smooth Darling pea (Swainsona galegifolia) exists within the bounds of the Swainsona reserve. The existing mountain bike trail network traverses through this site and is likely to have had some effect on individual plants. In Victoria the species is known only from two (2) populations, in the Indigo Creek and Felltimber Creek catchments, 12 and 8 km respectively west of Wodonga and it is listed as threatened in accordance with Section 10 of the FFG Act 1998.

Red-Gum Environmental Consulting Pty Ltd (‘Red-Gum’) was commissioned by PAW (‘the Proponent’) to undertake an Environmental Assessment of the trail network within the NCR (“the Site”). The assessment was guided by the factors that must be considered by decision makers, to assess whether the current use of the NCR (by mountain bike trail riders) is having (or likely to have) a significant effect on the natural environment and threatened native flora & fauna that may be using the site.

The environmental assessment comprised primarily of two (2) stages. Stage 1 consisted of a review of online and contextual information relating to ecological assets likely present at the site, and Stage 2 involved inspections of the site to assess current environmental conditions, impacts, threats and opportunities. This report discusses the findings of both the Stage 1 and 2 assessments in relation to site values and recommends mitigation measures that may help avoid or reduce these impacts into the future.


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A third stage of assessment, conducted in parallel with Stages 1 & 2, was to clearly identify (and quantify) impacts on native vegetation in accordance with current native vegetation regulation requirements, to the satisfaction of the Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning (DELWP). The resultant Biodiversity Impacts & Offsetting Requirements (BIOR) report considers the findings of this assessment. Losses were determined using a 1m buffer of the centreline of each track (mapped in the field) creating a series of two-metre-wide corridors. The 2m wide polygon was used to calculate the area of a ‘patch’ affected by the track alignments and/or the percentage of a scattered tree’s individual Tree Protection Zone (TPZ) which was also calculated from Diameter at Breast Height (DBH) measurements captured during the field assessment phase.

The losses attributable to the establishment of the trail network were calculated to be 2.21 ha, comprising only remnant patches and no (zero) scattered trees, across two (2) Location Zones (Zone A and Zone C). Native vegetation removal within Location Zone C is expected to have a high impact on the local landscape. As a result, the damage to native vegetation considered by the report was assessed in terms of the High Risk-based Pathway and offsets for the determined losses will be negotiated with DELWP. Of note, is that a specific offset for habitat for Smooth Darling-pea (Swainsonia galegifolia) may be required.

Two species (2) listed on the DSE advisory list for threatened species were recorded during the September 2017 survey; A large adult Lace Monitor (Varanus varius) was recorded on the upper southern slopes of McFarlands Hill and two (2) adult Woodland Blind Snakes (Ramphotyphlops Proximus) were recorded on Swainsona Reserve within the brood chamber of a large ant nest (Rhytidoponera sp.).

The Dwyer’s Snake (Parasuta dwyeri), Olive Legless Lizard (Delma inornata), Eastern Stone Gecko (Diplodactylus vittatus) and Burton’s Snake-lizard (Lialis burtonis) are locally uncommon and have rarely been recorded with the Wodonga LGA. None of these species have previously been recorded within the Fell Timber Creek Conservation Reserve (VBA 2017).

By way of remnant native vegetation values, the average Habitat Hectare (HabHa) score across the NCR was 59/100, however there was a distinct difference in scores between areas subject to cattle grazing (53/100) and those where stock have been excluded (64/100). However, the survey team did encounter and record a 12,300 m² patch of Smooth Darling pea (Swainsona galegifolia) with an anticipated density of between 500 & 800 individual plants.

The majority of the NCR is dominated by annual exotic grasses in the Spring and exotic perennial grasses like Rye or Phalaris in higher fertility areas, making it very difficult for the persistence and expansion of sensitive forbs like Blue pincushion (Brunonia australis), lilies and orchids. In addition, a significant proportion of McFarlanes Hill reserve is also used for controlled grazing by cattle under a lease arrangement managed by PAW. The competition posed by these grass (or grass like) species and continued grazing under the current paddock plan, are the main threats to the conservation values of the NCR.

The seventeen (17) recommendations made in this report cover three (3) themes; Planning for impact minimisation & avoidance; Strategies to reduce the impacts of current NCR uses on the environment; and Rehabilitation & enhancement of threatened species habitat.

Not-the-least-of-which is a recommendation for Parklands-Albury Wodonga to oversee the implementation of a single UP and DOWN Main Track Loop (9.8 km) and a single UP and DOWN Mini-Track Loop (4.3 km) that both begin and end at the current car-park area on Felltimber Creek Road. The new loops will see the closure of 9.4 km of DOWN trail, 4.6 km of UP trail and 700m of ‘un-specified’ trail, which is an overall reduction in trails by 63% in the NCR. The “Mixed Tape” alignment through Swainsona reserve is to remain open, with some closures and realignments.


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This report is to be read in-conjunction with the IMBA Assessment for Felltimber Nature Conservation Reserve 2017, the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Due Diligence Assessment for Felltimber Nature Conservation Reserve 2017 and the High Risk-based Pathway Biodiversity Assessment for Removal of Vegetation in Felltimber Creek Conservation Reserve Mountain Bike Trail Network – all produced by Red-Gum under the same engagement.

Mr Damian Wall Managing Director 7/3/18


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CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION .........................................................................................................................................6

1.1 Environmental Assessment Scope ................................................................................................................. 6

1.2 Statement of Limitations ................................................................................................................................ 8

2. INVESTIGATION METHODOLOGY ...............................................................................................................9

2.1 Stage 1 Assessment ........................................................................................................................................ 9

2.2 Stage 2 Assessment ........................................................................................................................................ 9

3. REGULATORY FRAMEWORK FOR ASSESSMENT ........................................................................................ 10

3.1 Legislation & Policy ....................................................................................................................................... 10

3.2 Guidelines & Standards ................................................................................................................................ 11

3.3 Regulatory Framework in the Context of this Assessment ........................................................................... 12

4. SITE DESCRIPTION .................................................................................................................................. 13

5. ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING ..................................................................................................................... 13

5.1 Geographic Area ........................................................................................................................................... 13

5.2 Landform & Geology .................................................................................................................................... 13

5.3 Vegetation .................................................................................................................................................... 14

5.4 Land Use History ........................................................................................................................................... 16

5.5 Current Land Use .......................................................................................................................................... 16

5.6 Aboriginal Cultural Heritage ......................................................................................................................... 17

5.7 Threatened Species ...................................................................................................................................... 17

6. ECOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT....................................................................................................................... 18

6.1 Native Vegetation & Available Habitats ....................................................................................................... 18

6.2 Native Vegetation Losses ............................................................................................................................. 20

6.3 Threatened Species Assessment .................................................................................................................. 21

6.4 Summary of Findings .................................................................................................................................... 26

7. DISCUSSION ............................................................................................................................................ 27

8. RECOMMENDATIONS .............................................................................................................................. 28

8.1 Planning for Impact Minimisation & Avoidance ........................................................................................... 28

8.2 Strategies to reduce the impacts of current NCR uses on the environment ............................................... 35

8.3 Rehabilitation & enhancement of threatened species habitat .................................................................... 39

9. REFERENCES & BIBLIOGRAPHY ................................................................................................................ 42

10. APPENDIX ......................................................................................................................................... 44

Appendix A: Flora Species Recorded on Site ...................................................................................................... 44

Appendix B: Fauna Species Recorded on Site during targeted surveys .............................................................. 49

Appendix C: Threatened Flora Species – EPBC Act ............................................................................................. 50

Appendix D: Threatened Fauna Species – EPBC Act ........................................................................................... 51

Appendix E: Threatened Flora Species – FFG Act ............................................................................................... 54


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Appendix F: Threatened Fauna Species – FFG Act .............................................................................................. 54

Appendix I: Site Photos ....................................................................................................................................... 56 List of Photos Photo 1: Echidna recorded at top of Quartz Trail in PTWL habitat. ................................................................................... 56 Photo 2: Olive legless lizard (Delma inorna) recorded in Swainsona reserve..................................................................... 56 Photo 3: Eastern Stone Gecko (Diplodactylus vittatus) recorded in Swainsona reserve and McFarlanes Hill reserve. ..... 57 Photo 4: Coppertailed Skink (Ctenotus taeniolatus) recorded throughout both reserves. ................................................ 57 Photo 5: Greenhood Orchids (Pterostylis concinna) recorded adjacent to V2 up trail. ..................................................... 58 Photo 6: Swainsona galegifolia recorded adjacent to Mixed Tape trail in Swainsona reserve. ......................................... 58 Photo 7: Lace Monitor (Varanus varius) recorded on Quartz Trail DOWN in McFarlanes Hill reserve. ............................. 59 Photo 8: Woodland Blind snake (Anilos Proximus) recorded in Swainsona reserve. ......................................................... 59 Photo 9: Potential PTWL habitat on north face of McFarlanes Hill showing Quartz UP to be closed. ............................... 60 Photo 10: Riden-in track over exotic pasture. Trail is stable but has not been purpose built and is susceptible to erosion eventually. To be closed. .................................................................................................................................................... 60 Photo 11: Scooby UP trail. Trail is small and stable. UP trails generally show less wear and are less susceptible to degradation. ....................................................................................................................................................................... 61 Photo 12: Valley Grassy Forest at events centre. Area is of moderate value and is sustaining a good species mix despite trail network use. ................................................................................................................................................................ 61 List of Maps Map 1: The Proposed Activity Location in Wodonga, Victoria. Scale: 1:5,000 ..................................................................... 7 Map 2: Geographic Area –North East Catchment (Source: North East Catchment Management Authority website) ...... 14 Map 3: Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVCs) at the site..................................................................................................... 15 Map 3: Habitat Hectare Assessment Sites & Results .......................................................................................................... 19 Map 4: Key Habitat Zones – McFarlanes Hill reserve ......................................................................................................... 22 Map 5: Key Habitat Zones – Swainsona Reserve ................................................................................................................ 23 Map 6: Existing v Proposed Mountain Bike Trail Network, McFarlanes Hill reserve, 2017 ................................................ 29 Map 7: New Main Loop vs Mini Loop Trails on McFarlanes Hill reserve ............................................................................ 30 Map 8: Existing v Proposed Mountain Bike Trail Network, Swainsona reserve, 2017 ....................................................... 31 Map 9: Proposed Trail realignments on “V2”, McFarlanes Hill reserve. ............................................................................ 32 Map 10: Proposed Trail Realignments, “Mixed Tape” trail, Swainsona reserve. ............................................................... 33 Map 11: Proposed site of new Parking, Interpretation & Events Centre ........................................................................... 34 Map 12: Proposed Management Zones ............................................................................................................................. 37 Map 13: Fencing Concept Plan for McFarlanes Hill reserve ............................................................................................... 38 List of Tables Table 1: Acts, policies, guidelines and standards relevant for site assessments ................................................................ 12 Table 2: Site details ............................................................................................................................................................. 13 Table 3: Total richness and abundance of reptile species recorded during September 2017 ............................................ 21 List of Figures Figure 1: Squatting Runs in the Wodonga District. Source: Spreadborough & Anderson 1983 ......................................... 16 Figure 2: Native Vegetation Location Risk map from BIOR report 6/12/17. ...................................................................... 20 Figure 3: Trail Signage examples ......................................................................................................................................... 35 Figure 4: Example Interpretive Signage .............................................................................................................................. 36

Environmental Assessment Felltimber Creek NCR

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1. INTRODUCTION The Felltimber Creek Nature Conservation Reserve (“the reserve”) consists of McFarlanes Hill (aka Hunchback Hill) and Swainsona reserves in West Wodonga have become increasingly popular with walkers, mountain bikers (from beginners to advanced standards), trail runners, orienteers, photographers, birdwatchers and other day-use only visitors. The Wodonga Hills Activation Strategy (Gondwana Consulting, 2016) and the Hunchback Hill Masterplan (CoW, 2016) set out strategies to increase visitor numbers to the site, including proposals to expand the network of walking tracts, improve cycling facilities, add visitor facilities and the potential for vehicle access to particular vantage points. The plan also identifies areas of conservation priority and offset areas.

To date, 119 ha of the total reserve area has been fenced to exclude stock. Cattle grazing under an annual lease is managed by Parklands Albury-Wodonga (PAW) on the remaining 116 ha of the NCR.

The majority of the mountain bike trail network has been constructed in a largely hap-hazard fashion with majority of mountain bike trails in particular, being ‘riden-in’ over existing animal tracks and/or constructed without any formal cultural heritage due-diligence assessment, planning or consideration of appropriate design and siting principles.

This has resulted in a degree of environmental impact on remnant native vegetation (which includes threatened species) and available native fauna habitat. The reserves contain habitats that are likely to support a range of reptile species (in particular) including the federal Environment Protection Biodiversity Conservation Act (EPBC Act) listed Pink-tailed worm lizard (Aprasia parapulchella) and the Woodland blind snake (Ramphotyphlops Proximus) listed as Near Threatened in Victoria. Although not recorded during the survey period for this assessment, there is also a reasonable chance of both reserves supporting threatened mammals including the Brush-tailed Phascogale (Phascogale tapoatafa) and Squirrel Glider (Petaurus norfolcensis), both Flora & Fauna Guarantee Act (FFG Act) listed species.

A known population of Smooth Darling pea (Swainsona galegifolia) exists within the bounds of the Swainsona reserve. The existing mountain bike trail network traverses through this site and is likely to have had some effect on individual plants. In Victoria the species is known only from two (2) populations, in the Indigo Creek and Felltimber Creek catchments, 12 and 8 km respectively west of Wodonga and it is listed as threatened in accordance with Section 10 of the FFG Act 1998.

1.1 Environmental Assessment Scope

Red-Gum Environmental Consulting Pty Ltd (‘Red-Gum’) was commissioned by PAW (‘the Proponent’) to undertake an Environmental Assessment of the trail network within the NCR (“the Site”). The assessment was guided by the factors that must be considered by decision makers, to assess whether the current use of the NCR (by mountain bike trail riders) is having (or likely to have) a significant effect on the natural environment and threatened native flora & fauna that may be using the site. The site is located within the City of Wodonga, accessed off Fell Timber Creek Road (Map 1).

The environmental assessment comprised primarily of two (2) stages. Stage 1 consisted of a review of online and contextual information relating to ecological assets likely present at the site, and Stage 2 involved inspections of the site to assess current environmental conditions, impacts, threats and opportunities. This report discusses the findings of both the Stage 1 and 2 assessments in relation to site values and recommends mitigation measures that may help avoid or reduce these impacts into the future.


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Map 1: The Proposed Activity Location in Wodonga, Victoria. Scale: 1:5,000


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A third stage of assessment, conducted in parallel with Stages 1 & 2, was to clearly identify (and quantify) impacts on native vegetation (caused by the un-authorised extension of the trail network in 2013) in accordance with current native vegetation regulation requirements, to the satisfaction of the Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning (DELWP). The resultant Biodiversity Impacts & Offsetting Requirements (BIOR) report considers the findings of this assessment.

This report is to be read in-conjunction with the IMBA Assessment for Felltimber Nature Conservation Reserve 2017, the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Due Diligence Assessment for Felltimber Nature Conservation Reserve 2017 and the High Risk-based Pathway Biodiversity Assessment for Removal of Vegetation in Felltimber Creek Conservation Reserve Mountain Bike Trail Network – all produced by Red-Gum under the same engagement.

1.2 Statement of Limitations

This report has been prepared by Red-Gum for the sole use by PAW in their negotiated interactions with DELWP and City of Wodonga Council (CoW).

It should be noted that this report contains interpretations and conclusions, which are uncertain due to the nature of the investigations. No study can completely eliminate risk, and even a rigorous assessment and/or sampling program may not detect all problem areas within a site. The following information sets out the limitations of the report.

This report should only be presented in full and should not be used to support any objective other than those detailed within the Scope (Section 1.1). In particular, the report does not contain sufficient information to enable it to be used for any use other than the project specific requirements for which the report was carried out. Red-Gum accepts no liability for any loss and/or damage incurred as a result of use of the site.

It is imperative to note that the report only considers the site conditions current at the time of investigation (April to November 2017) and to be aware that conditions may have changed due to natural forces and/or operations on or near the site. Any decisions based on the findings of the report must take into account any subsequent changes in site conditions and/or developments in legislative and regulatory requirements. Red-Gum accepts no liability to the Proponent for any loss and/or damage incurred as a result of a change in the site conditions and/or regulatory/legislative framework since the date of the report.

The report is based on an interpretation of factual information available and the professional opinion and judgement of Red-Gum. Unless stated to the contrary, Red-Gum has not verified the accuracy or completeness of any information received from the Proponent or a third party during the performance of services, and Red-Gum accepts no liability to the Proponent for any loss and/or damage incurred as a result of any inaccurate or incomplete information.

Any reliance on this report by a third party shall be entirely at such party’s own risk. Red-Gum provides no warranty or guarantee to any third party, express or implied, as to the information and/or professional advice indicated in the Report, and accepts no liability for or in respect of any use or reliance upon the report by a third party.


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2. INVESTIGATION METHODOLOGY 2.1 Stage 1 Assessment

A Stage 1 assessment (also referred to as a Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment) is typically undertaken to establish site conditions, historical site uses and practices. As part of this Stage 1 assessment the following sources of information have been reviewed: • Relevant reports, • Topographical maps, • Geological maps, • EPBC Protected Matters Online Search Tool, • DELWP NatureKit (formally known as Biodiversity Interactive Map), • Victorian Biodiversity Atlas (VBA); and • Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Register Information System (ACHRIS).

The Stage 1 assessment seeks to identify: • Ecological assets that may be on the site, and; • The likelihood of Threatened Species utilising aspects of the site.

2.2 Stage 2 Assessment

For this investigation, the site inspection / field survey is referred to as a Stage 2 assessment. The site inspection included numerous site inspections, a vegetation survey employing the Habitat Hectares methodology1 (separate report) an assessment considering the International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA) construction guidelines (separate report), opportunistic fauna surveys and an inventory of any key habitats on site or threatening processes currently impacting the site, or likely to impact the site as a result of the current use (Section 6) and an Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Due Diligence assessment (separate report). Key contributors to the Stage 2 assessment included:

1. Dr Damian Michael2 of Ecotone Wildlife and Habitat Assessments. Dr Michael was engaged by Red-Gum Environmental Consulting to undertake a habitat assessment for threatened reptiles within Fell Timber Creek NCR. The assessment was confined to land managed by Parklands Albury-Wodonga (McFarlanes Hill, Hunchback and Swainsona Reserve). The aim of the assessment was to: • Assess the likelihood of threatened reptile species occurring on the hills; • Identify zones of suitable threatened reptile habitat; • Conduct a preliminary survey for threatened reptiles; and • Evaluate the likely impacts of existing mountain bike trails on threatened reptile habitat within the

study area.

2. Mr Nigel Jones of the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Trust and long-term resident of north-east VIC was invited to assist with floristic survey. Mr Jones is a highly regarded ecologist who is credited with a leading role in the development of the Habitat Hectare Assessment methodology which is now used by the Victoria Government to assess native vegetation quality, losses and offsets.

1 As at the published date of this report, Mr Damian Wall is an accredited Native Vegetation Assessor and on the register maintained by DELWP. 2 Dr Damian Michael has a Bachelor of Applied Science (Parks, Recreation and Heritage) (Hons, CSU) PhD (ANU) Ecology and conservation of reptiles in southern New South Wales and the implications for inselberg management in agricultural systems.


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3. Mr Stuart Roberton. Mr Roberton is a former PAW and Red-Gum employee who has intricate knowledge of the vegetation associations in the NCR after personally conducting several Habitat hectare and floristic surveys during his time with PAW (2013 to 2014). Mr Roberton was also the PAW contact during the development of the mountain bike trail Cultural Heritage Management Plan developed by Red-Gum in 2015 and as such has excellent knowledge on the trail network, its evolution and challenges.

4. Mr Leigh Hollands of Terrain Trail Construction was engaged by Red-Gum Environmental Consulting to undertake a full audit of all existing mountain bike trails within the NCR. The assessment was against the International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA) construction guidelines and for each trail, was to report on: • The state of general trail factors (i.e. Trail construction method, Trail Flow, Average grade) • The overall condition considering factors including whether immediate maintenance was required,

the presence/likelihood of erosion, appropriate drainage, armouring and signage. • The implementation of principles of sustainable trail design including application of the ‘Half Rule’,

presence of rolling contours, outslope, grade reversals, rolling grade dips, trail anchors, chokes, switchbacks & berms.

3. REGULATORY FRAMEWORK FOR ASSESSMENT 3.1 Legislation & Policy 3.1.1 Planning and Environment Act 1987

The Planning and Environment Act 1987 sets out the requirements of planning authorities when preparing planning schemes or amendments to planning schemes. The Act requires planning authorities to “take into account any significant effects which it considers the scheme or amendment might have on the environment or which it considers the environment might have on any use or development envisaged in the scheme or amendment”.

3.1.2 Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Act (EPBC Act) is Australia’s key piece of environmental legislation. The Act provides identification and listing of threatened species and ecological communities that are recognised as a matter of environmental significance. Any action that is likely to have significant impact on listed threatened species and ecological communities must be referred to the Commonwealth Minister for Environment and undergo environmental assessment and approval process.

When determining whether or not a proposed action will need formal assessment, the Act provides Significant Impact Guidelines and the protected matters search tool to assist in determining if the proposed action is likely to have significant impact and if so, the species it may affect. Subsection 26(2) of the Act requires action taken by any person outside of Commonwealth Land that is likely to have a significant impact on the environment on Commonwealth Land be referred for formal assessment.

3.1.3 Flora & Fauna Guarantee Act 1988

The purpose of the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act (FFG Act) is to establish a legal and administrative structure to enable and promote the conservation of Victoria’s native flora and fauna. The Act provides procedures that can be used for the conservation, management and control of flora and fauna and the management of potentially threatening processes. The Department of Environment Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) maintains the Threatened List and the Process List, which have been assessed and determined by an external expert Scientific Advisory Committee.


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3.1.4 Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006

The main purposes of this Act are to provide for the protection of Aboriginal cultural heritage and Aboriginal intangible heritage in Victoria and to empower traditional owners as protectors of their cultural heritage on behalf of Aboriginal people and all other peoples. The Aboriginal Heritage Regulations 2007 gives effect to the Act and the Regulations prescribe standards, set out the circumstances in which a Cultural Heritage Management Plan should be prepared.

A CHMP is prepared by a Heritage Adviser and contains results of an assessment of the potential impact of a proposed activity on Aboriginal cultural heritage. It outlines measures to be taken before, during and after an activity in order to manage and protect Aboriginal cultural heritage in the activity area.

A CHMP is required when high impact activities (i.e. subdivision) are planned in an area of cultural heritage sensitivity. In such an area, planning permits, licences and work authorities can't be issued unless a CHMP has been approved for the activity. Areas of cultural heritage sensitivity are registered Aboriginal cultural heritage places, as well as landforms and land categories that are generally regarded as more likely to contain Aboriginal cultural heritage.

3.1.5 Clause 52.47 Planning for Bushfire & 44.06 Bushfire Management Overlay (BMO)

The purpose of the Bushfire Management Overlay (BMO) is to identify areas where bushfire hazard warrants bushfire protection measures to be implemented, and to ensure development is only permitted where the risk to life and property from bushfire can be reduced to an acceptable level. The BMO aims to ensure that the development of land prioritises the protection of human life and strengthens community resilience to bushfire.

Clause 52.47 applies to applications under the BMO, and aims to ensure that the location, design and construction of development appropriately responds to bushfire hazard. The Planning for Bushfire clause also aims to ensure that development is only permitted where the risk to life, property and community infrastructure from bushfire can be reduced to an acceptable level, and specifies location.

3.2 Guidelines & Standards

3.2.1 International Mountain Biking Association guidelines

The International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) has developed a series of guidelines and principles for designing and locating sustainable mountain bike tracks, published in their 2004 book “Trail Solutions: IMBA’s Guide to Building Sweet Singletrack” (Felton, 2004). The guidelines are commonly used in the creation and maintenance of mountain bike trails, and in the context of this report they are used to assess the quality of construction, sustainability of design, and current condition of trail in the NCR.

3.2.2 Permitted clearing of native vegetation – Biodiversity assessment guidelines

The Permitted clearing of native vegetation – Biodiversity assessment guidelines guide the consideration of impacts on biodiversity when assessing an application for a permit to remove, lop or destroy native vegetation. Under the guidelines, a requirement for offset of native vegetation loss can be calculated for the purposes of acquiring a permit. In the context of this report, the guidelines are used to assist in the identification of high-conservation value areas, and to calculate the required offset for any vegetation lost in the NCR without a permit since 2015.


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3.2.3 AS4970---2009 Protection of Trees on Development Sites

This Standard provides guidance on the principles for protecting trees on land subject to development. This includes determination of Tree Protection Zones (TPZs) and Structural Root Zones (SRZs), which are used to protect trees within developments. TPZs and SRZs were considered in this report when determining if trees had been sufficiently impacted to be considered “lost” under the Permitted clearing of native vegetation – Biodiversity assessment guidelines.

3.2.4 Wodonga Environmental Lands Bushfire Management Strategy

The Wodonga Environmental Lands Bushfire Management Strategy (Terramatrix, 2016) guides the approach to fire management in environmental lands across the Wodonga LGA to meet public safety, environmental care, community and organisational expectations. The Strategy includes a “treatment tool box” that sets out the range of bushfire treatments that could be applied to mitigate the bushfire risk across the reserve estate. The treatments set out in this plan have been selected from the treatment toolbox based upon the level of risk at the Hunchback Hill cluster, their efficacy in treating the risk, how practical the treatment is to implement, and the cost-benefit of the treatment.

3.3 Regulatory Framework in the Context of this Assessment

The acts, policies, guidelines and standards relevant for each stage of assessment are set out in Table 1. Table 1: Acts, policies, guidelines and standards relevant for site assessments

Stage of Assessment Relevant Acts & Policies Relevant Guidelines and Standards

Desktop Investigation

• Planning and Environment Act 1987 • Environment Protection and Biodiversity

Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC) • Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 (FFG)

• Permitted clearing of native vegetation – Biodiversity assessment guidelines

• Clause 52.47 Planning for Bushfire

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

• Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 (FFG)

• AS4970---2009 Protection of Trees on Development Sites

• Permitted clearing of native vegetation – Biodiversity assessment guidelines

• International Mountain Biking Association guidelines

• Clause 52.47 Planning for Bushfire


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4. SITE DESCRIPTION General information relating to the site is presented in Table 2. Refer to Map 1 for a site location. See Appendix I for site photos taken during the field assessment. Table 2: Site details

Location / Address Felltimber Creek Road, West Wodonga, VIC Approximate Coordinates (GDA94 MGA Zone 55)

Carpark location at 482997 E 6001998 N

Current Title Information Allot. 8A & 9B, Sec. 2, PARISH OF BELVOIR WEST Site Area (ha) 235 Local Council Wodonga City Council Current Land Zoning Public Conservation and Resource Zone (PCRZ)

Schedule to the Public Conservation and Resource Zone (PCRZ)

Zoning of Surrounding Land FZ (Farming), GRZ1 (General Residential), PUZ1 (Public Use– Service and Utility), Development Plan Overlay (DPO), Environmental Significance Overlay (ESO), Significant Landscape Overlay (SLO) , Bushfire Management Overlay (BMO)

Overlay Affecting Land Bushfire Management Overlay (BMO), Areas of Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Sensitivity

Environmental Audit Overlay Not applicable Current Land Uses Nature Conservation (Crown Land), Public Recreation, Public Use, Stock grazing.

Possible Land Uses NIL Surrounding Land Uses Nature Conservation (Crown Land), Agriculture, Residential, Public Recreation,

Public Use (Roads and Footpaths).

5. ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING 5.1 Geographic Area

The site is located in the City of Wodonga Local Government Area (LGA) and is situated within the North East catchment (Map ). The North-East Catchment is located in northern Victoria and is part of the Murray Darling Basin. The region is bounded by the Murray River in the north, the Victorian Alps in the south, the NSW border in the east and the Warby Ranges in the west. It takes in the local government municipalities of Wodonga, Indigo, Wangaratta, Alpine and Towong, plus parts of the Moira and East Gippsland shires.

5.2 Landform & Geology

The study area is located within the riverine plains of the Murray Basin Plains, characterised by flat to undulating land on recent unconsolidated sediments (Cuddy et. al., 1993).

The landscape in the region has altered greatly over the past 500 million years. Over 500 million years ago the area was part of a sea and layers of marine sediments settled on top of lava that erupted from the ocean floor. Approximately 450 million years ago the region was rocked by a period of massive earth movements which deformed the cooled lava layers and marine sediments. Many of the rocks pushed up were well above sea level. The region was quiet between 300 and 65 million years ago and erosion occurred during this period producing a flat landscape. Later, as the ground began to subside, the Murray Basin was created.


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Map 2: Geographic Area –North East Catchment (Source: North East Catchment Management Authority website)

About 1.8 million years ago, the Basin continued to sink and thick layers of alluvium and swamp deposits lay over the top of the volcanic and marine sediments. Deposits of river alluvium continue today with the flooding of creeks and rivers in the region (Cuddy et. al., 1993). There have been three major geomorphological and hydrological events/complexes in the last 50,000 years within the Murray River valley near Echuca and Yarrawonga (Craib 1991: 29-31). The oldest is the Green Gully-Tallygaroopna complex when the Murray River flowed downstream north-east from the Barmah Region, rather than turning towards Echuca, over 30,000 years ago. Between 30,000 and 25,000 years ago earth movements blocked the Murray River and diverted the Murray River north to Deniliquin from the Barmah area. This is the Kotupna complex. Approximately 15,000 years ago the Murray River altered its course once more and by 6,000 years ago had settled into the route we see today.

5.3 Vegetation

The site at Wodonga is within the Victorian Riverina bioregion, west of the Great Dividing Range. The vegetation types associated with the site are mapped as Grassy Woodland (EVC 175), Grassy Dry Forest (EVC 22) & Valley Grassy Forest (EVC 47). EVC 175 and 47 are both regarded Endangered in the bioregion, whereas EVC 22 is Depleted (Map 3). Due to past disturbances such as clearing for agriculture and grazing (the later of which continues to date) the dominant vegetation and structures of the local EVC have been significantly altered structurally, but a native intact overstorey persists.


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Map 3: Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVCs) at the site


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5.4 Land Use History

The first Europeans to pass through the Albury Wodonga area were Hume and Hovell in 1824 (Zobel 1984: 17). They were followed by squatters who established large runs where agricultural activities were undertaken. The activity area once formed a part of the Wodonga pastoral run (Figure 1) which was originally estimated at 41,000 acres and licenced to Paul Huon in 1848 before being leased to William Huon in 1849. The lease was abandoned in 1881 (Spreadborough & Anderson 1983).

Figure 1: Squatting Runs in the Wodonga District. Source: Spreadborough & Anderson 1983

The NCR has been subject to continuous grazing in the past 100 years and associated activities that go hand-in-hand with post-European settlement and establishment in the region. The valleys and lowlands within the reserve would have been home to many large gum and box trees that were cleared to build fences, houses and support a growing population. Likewise, a dominant shrub layer consisting of various species of Acacia and groundcovers including forbs (plus native orchids) are likely to have given way to introduced annual pasture species and grazing pressure. Evidence of the NCRs sheep and cattle grazing history are still located on the climb to the ridge walking trail in the north-west corner of the McFarlanes Hill reserve.

5.5 Current Land Use

The site has become increasingly popular with walkers, mountain bikers (from beginners to advanced standards), trail runners, orienteers, photographers, birdwatchers and other day-use only visitors. The Wodonga Hills Activation Strategy (Gondwana Consulting, 2016) and the Hunchback Hill Masterplan (CoW, 2016) set out strategies to increase visitor numbers to the site, including proposals to expand the network of walking tracts, improve cycling facilities, add visitor facilities and the potential for vehicle access to particular vantage points. To date, 119 ha of the total reserve area has been fenced to exclude stock. Cattle grazing under an annual lease is managed by Parklands Albury-Wodonga (PAW) on the remaining 116 ha of the NCR.

Felltimber NCR


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5.6 Aboriginal Cultural Heritage

A Cultural Heritage Management Plan (CHMP) was prepared for a proportion of McFarlanes Hill in 2015 by Red-Gum Environmental Consulting. The activity area consisted of 8.115 km of existing and proposed mountain bike track alignments on elevated areas ranging from 250 AHD to 460 AHD. The survey method used was a pedestrian survey (Standard Assessment) followed by sub-surface investigation (Complex Assessment). Two (2) 1m x 1m test pits and one hundred and forty-eight (148) shovel probes were excavated across eight (8) designated tracks within the Fell Timber Creek NCR. Aboriginal cultural material was found at two (2) locations. These included the 1m x 1m test pit east of the proposed Hunchback Hill South track (VAHR 8225-0269) and shovel probe 146 on the Hunchback Hill West track (VAHR 8225-0268). None of the radials excavated at either location yielded cultural material.

With regard to the remainder of the Felltimber NCR, and generally speaking, Aboriginal places would be expected to be situated close to either an ephemeral or permanent water source, providing adequate shelter from the elements and rising floodwaters, and have access to a food source. Additionally, for Aboriginal places to remain in these situations through time, the landscape will not have sustained significant ground disturbance activities. The results of the desktop assessment indicate that the Activity area comprises a hill slope landform, leading down into closed gullies with large rock outcrops cut by ephemeral creeks. Search of the VAHR database for registered Aboriginal Places within the defined Geographic Region, suggest that scarred tree, low density artefact distributions and artefact scatters are the Aboriginal place types most likely to be found in association with this landform.

5.7 Threatened Species 5.7.1 EPBC Threatened Flora

Consultation with the EPBC Protected Matters Online Search Tool within a 5 km radius of the site indicated that four (4) vulnerable species, two (2) endangered species, two (2) Endangered Ecological Community and one (1) Critically Endangered Ecological Community may occur within that specified geographic range. Appendix C considers their likelihood of occurring in the project area. Two (2) species are considered to have potential to occur within the site, but are not confirmed.

5.7.2 EPBC Threatened Fauna Species

Consultation with the EPBC Protected Matters Online Search Tool within 5 km of the site returned nine (9) vulnerable species, five (5) endangered species, and five (5) critically endangered species whose habitat may occur within that specified geographic range. Additionally, twelve (12) migratory species may utilise habitat within the defined range. Appendix D considers their likelihood of occurring in the project area. One (1) species (Pink-tailed Worm-lizard, Aprasia parapulchella) is considered to have potential to occur within the site, but was not identified during the field assessment.

5.7.3 FFG Act Threatened Flora

A search of the DELWP Biodiversity Atlas for threatened flora species under the FFG Act previously recorded within 5 km of the project site returned two (2) endangered species. Appendix E considers their likelihood of occurring in the project area. Wooly Ragwort (Senecio littoralis) is considered to have potential to occur within the site, but was not identified during the field assessment. One of two known populations of Smooth Darling Pea (Swainsona galegifolia) in Victoria is located within the site.


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5.7.4 FFG Act Threatened Fauna

A search of the DELWP Biodiversity Atlas for FFG listed threatened fauna species previously recorded within 5 km of the project site returned nine (9) species. Appendix F considers their likelihood of occurring in the project area. Three (3) species are considered to have potential to occur within the site, but were not confirmed during the field assessment.

6. ECOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT This section identifies the type and condition of vegetation and any threatened flora / fauna species, as identified by the Commonwealth’s Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) and Victoria’s Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 (FFG Act), whose habitat may occur within and around the site and specified geographic range.

6.1 Native Vegetation & Available Habitats

An assessment of condition of the vegetation on site was undertaken in late April and early November 2017 by Red-Gum involving Mr Nigel Jones of the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Trust and local ecologist. The objectives of the survey were to: • Assess the general condition of the vegetation across the site to determine its conservation significance

and presence of key fauna habitat; • List all the native and exotic flora observed via targeted Habitat Hectare (Habha) assessments across

seven (7) zones throughout the NCR; • Undertake an opportunistic survey of fauna in the area, and • Note the presence of any regionally significant or threatened flora or fauna.

Appendix A lists flora species observed on site, Map 3 denotes the locations of the HabHa assessments and the derived scores for each zone. See Appendix B for a list of fauna observed on site throughout the survey period (April-November 2017). An objective consideration of the conservation significance of any site should be considered in context of both legislation and regional guiding conservation strategies and its local importance relative to other extant examples in the local landscape with respect to the quality of the vegetation and range of habitats. The Felltimber NCR definitely has some areas which are of high significance especially in regard to the diversity of native plants found in the understorey, which are not common on other lands so close to Wodonga’s residential areas. However, these patches are a relatively minor component of the entire NCR.

The condition of the understorey / ground cover is a direct result of the past 150 years of agricultural practices/management, which has been mainly set stock grazing with seemingly minimal (to nil) inputs like fertiliser or lime. Consequently, the highest quality patches of native vegetation (as a proxy for available habitat) are located in the areas which historically have not been fertilised, ploughed or subject to stock camps, such as steep slopes. The majority of the NCR is dominated by annual exotic grasses in the Spring and exotic perennial grasses like Rye or Phalaris in higher fertility areas, making it very difficult for the persistence and expansion of sensitive forbs like Blue pincushion (Brunonia australis), lilies and orchids.

The competition posed by these grass (or grass like) species is the main threat to the conservation values of the NCR. Soil damage, trampling of plants and erosion from inappropriate mountain bike trail use is certainly not assisting the situation, but if managed appropriately, it does not pose a significant threat to NCR inherent values when considering the overall threats posed by species competition.


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Map 3: Habitat Hectare Assessment Sites & Results


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6.2 Native Vegetation Losses

Red-Gum was commissioned by PAW to develop a Biodiversity Impact and Offset Requirements (BIOR) report to retroactively considered the damage to native vegetation caused by the construction of the mountain bike trail network in terms of the Biodiversity Assessment Guidelines 2013 (BAG2013).

Losses were determined using a 1m buffer of the centreline of each track (mapped in the field) creating a series of two-metre-wide corridors. The 2m wide polygon was used to calculate the area of a ‘patch’ affected by the track alignments and/or the percentage of a scattered tree’s individual Tree Protection Zone (TPZ) which was also calculated from Diameter at Breast Height (DBH) measurements captured during the field assessment phase.

The losses were calculated to be 2.21 ha, comprising only remnant patches and no scattered trees, across Location Zone A and Location Zone C (Figure 2). Native vegetation removal within Location Zone C is expected to have a high impact on the local landscape. As a result, the damage to native vegetation considered by this report will be assessed in terms of the High Risk-based Pathway.

With regard to offsets for the determined losses, PAW will negotiate applicable offset credits with DELWP. Of note, is that a specific offset for habitat for Smooth Darling-pea (Swainsonia galegifolia) may be required.

Figure 2: Native Vegetation Location Risk map from BIOR report 6/12/17.


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6.3 Threatened Species Assessment 6.3.1 Reptiles

Habitat assessments involved walking existing mountain bike trails, visually assessing the trails (including two metres either side of the trail) for critical habitat components (e.g. surface rocks, swards of native grass species, hollow-bearing trees) and conducting active searches of suitable habitat (e.g. turning logs and rocks). The assessment was conducted between 0900 – 1400 hours on 29th April 2017 and 20th September 2017. The temperature during the two surveys ranged from 11°C to 17.5°C (29.4.2017) and 10°C to 18.3°C (20.9.2017).

A total of 11.6 km of mountain bike trails were visually accessed for threatened species habitat, and approximately 700 rocks were turned and inspected for signs of threatened species (e.g. slough skins or live specimens) during the first assessment. During the second survey, open grassy slopes on the north-eastern side of Swainsona reserve were targeted, along with a follow-up survey of areas identified during the April assessment as supporting high-quality potential Pink-tailed Worm-lizard habitat (e.g. Gneiss loop/Mix Tape and Quartz trails). During the second survey approximately 1,500 rocks were inspected for the presence of threatened reptiles.

No threatened fauna species were detected during the April survey. Incidental reptile species recorded along the mountain bike trails during this assessment included the Eastern Striped Skink (Ctenotus spaldingi) (N = 16) and the Southern Rainbow Skink (Carlia tetradactyla) (N = 7). All individuals were recorded beneath surface rocks located on the north or north-western-facing slopes of McFarlands Hill and Swainson reserve, and within two meters of the bike trails.

A diverse number of other reptile species were recorded during the September survey (Table 3 & Map 4 and Map 5). Several of these species are locally uncommon and have rarely been recorded with the Wodonga LGA. The Dwyer’s Snake (Parasuta dwyeri), Olive Legless Lizard (Delma inornata) and the Eastern Stone Gecko (Diplodactylus vittatus) are only known from only two (2) records each within the LGA, and Burton’s Snake-lizard (Lialis burtonis) is known from only eleven (11) records within the LGA. None of these species have previously been recorded within the Fell Timber Creek Conservation Reserve (VBA 2017). Table 3: Total richness and abundance of reptile species recorded during September 2017

*Recorded on the upper southern slope of Hunchback Hill adjacent to Quartz trail.


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Map 4: Key Habitat Zones – McFarlanes Hill reserve


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Map 5: Key Habitat Zones – Swainsona Reserve


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6.3.2 Ground-dwelling mammals

Given nature of construction and use of mountain bike trails, the survey team placed particular effort into surveying for ground-dwelling mammals whose habitat may be affected by the current use of the NCR. The Brush-tailed Phascogale (Phascogale tapoatafa tapoatafa) was specifically targeted during Spring time surveys.

Also known as the Tuan, the Brush-tailed Phascogale is a small, nocturnal, arboreal, carnivorous marsupial. It is a uniform deep grey on the head, back and flanks, light grey to pale cream underneath with large naked ears and a conspicuous, black 'brushy' tail. In Victoria, the Brush-tailed Phascogale has a fragmented distribution from Broadford to Wodonga in the North-east region and are primarily arboreal. The species forage for their diet (large insects, spiders and centipedes) on the trunks and major branches of rough-barked eucalypt trees, fallen logs and amongst litter.

Hollows in dead or live trees provide preferred den sites, although nests constructed under flaking bark, or in tree stumps are sometimes used but provide a less secure substitute against predators in areas where hollows are scarce. There have been no recorded sightings of Phascogale in the Wodonga LGA but twenty-two (22) from 2005-2008 in Chiltern-Mt Pilot National Park (VBA 2017).

Noting that within their home range, Phascogales will use up to thirty (30) tree hollows for shelter and breeding, survey effort was concentrated on those areas of the NCR where the mountain bike trail network intersected either high log density areas (including those with standing stumps) and heavily wooded slopes with a high large tree count (i.e. trees present with available hollows). Survey method was limited to spot-lighting over four (4) nights between August 31 and September 15, 2017. Trapping was not considered feasible given the ease with which traps may be tampered with or vandalised.

No (zero) individuals were recorded, although a range of nocturnal non-target native species were, including Brush-tailed possum (Trichosurus vulpecula), Tawny frogmouth (Podargus strigoides) and Barn owl (Tyto alba).

6.3.3 Threatened & Significant flora

A known population of Smooth Darling pea (Swainsona galegifolia) exists within the bounds of the Swainsona reserve. The existing mountain bike trail network traverses through this site and is likely to have had some affect on individual plants. In Victoria the species is known only from two (2) populations, in the Indigo Creek and Felltimber Creek catchments, 12 and 8 km respectively west of Wodonga and it is listed as threatened in accordance with Section 10 of the FFG Act 1998.

Two (2) other species the Crimson spider orchid (Caladenia concolor) and Currawang (Acacia doratoxylon) are considered to both frequent the exact same slopes, aspects and EVCs that are present in the NCR. However, field survey did not encounter either species.

The Crimson spider orchid is highly susceptible to inappropriate fire regimes, set stocking and serious infestations of weed species (Briza spp. in particular) which occur in the immediate vicinity of individuals of the orchid (OEH 2017). These facts alone suggest that finding a viable population of this species (within the defined ‘most suitable’ habitat area – being rocky north facing outcrops and ridges) within the NCR, is highly un-likely. Set stocking and weed load within McFarlanes Hill reserve would be a major inhibiting factor at present, with some drastic management changes required before consideration of the reserve as a suitable site for this and other orchid species.


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Surveys in 1993 found that the Smooth Darling pea (Swainsona galegifolia) population in the Wodonga region comprised four stands (about 10,000 plants over 20 ha) within a 2 km long, 65 ha area of forested habitat on land managed by the Albury Wodonga Development Corporation (AWDC) and it was estimated that <5% of this population actually overlapped into an adjoining road reserve managed by the Wodonga City Council (DSE 2004).

It is unclear whether the site referred to by DSE (2004) is the Swainsona reserve, however it matters little given that the Smooth Darling pea (Swainsona galegifolia) was recorded by this assessment (at the location it has previously been mapped) within Swainsona reserve. The survey team encountered a patch size of approximately 12,300 m² with an anticipated density of between 500 & 800 individual plants (Map 5).

The population is persisting, and perhaps expanding along a steep (between 20° & 35°) heavily timbered south-facing slope dominated by Red Stringybark (Eucalyptus macrorhyncha) and Red Box (E.polyanthemos) on the drier upper slopes, with Apple Box (E. bridgesiana) and Long-leaf Box (E. goniocalyx) on lower slopes and in gullies to the north and south of the ridge. The associated vegetation includes Rock fern (Cheilanthes austrotenuifolia), Wallaby-grass (Danthonia spp.), Weeping grass (Microlaena stipoides) and various herbs including Slender fire weed (Senecio tenuiflorus), Kidney weed (Dichondra repens), Stinking pennywort (Hydrocotyle laxiflora). Some Lightwood (Acacia implexa) and Redstemmed wattle (A.rubida) persist and form a sparse mid-storey throughout the zone.

Soils in the zone are generally well mulched on the lower slopes where the ridge flattens and a depositional zone from upslope granitic wash has settled. Some individual pea plants have established in rocky outcrops and younger plants are prominent in amongst fallen branches where they may find shelter from grazing Kangaroos.

The ‘Mixed Tape’ mountain bike track dissects the patch area and does not appear to be affecting the distribution and/or health of the population. With appropriate signage, track design and management of pedestrian access, it is conceivable that the population will continue to expand outward onto the rocky open grassland area to the immediate north – nearing the summit of the Mixed Tape trail. This area was also identified as potentially important habitat for the Woodland Blind Snake (Ramphotyphlops Proximus) that was recorded nearby by the survey team in November 2017.

Threatened flora species were not recorded anywhere else in the NCR. However, species that are perhaps considered indicator species of low disturbance sites (i.e. un-grazed or lightly stocked environs) or companion species to threatened species (i.e. those that share growth form characteristics, life-cycle patterns, slope and aspects etc) were recorded.

Species including Tall Sundew (Drosera peltata ssp. Auriculate), Greenhood Orchid (Pterostylis concinna), Common Onion Orchid (Microtis unifolia), Austral Cranesbill (Geranium solanderi s.l.) and Chocolate Lily (Arthropodium strictum s.l.) were all present in the Valley Grassy Forest Habha site, central to the trail network and species including Blue Pincushion (Brunonia australis), Curved Rice-flower (Pimelea curviflora s.s.) and Vanilla Lily (Arthropodium milleflorum s.l.) were found within the Grassy Dry Forest EVCs through which the ‘Qaurtz DOWN’ trail has been constructed, mid-slope and under canopy.


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6.4 Summary of Findings

• Two species listed on the DSE advisory list for threatened species were recorded during the September 2017 survey.

o A large adult Lace Monitor (Varanus varius) was recorded on the upper southern slopes of McFarlands Hill basking at the base of a large tree adjacent to Quartz trail (36°07’22.2” S 146°49’18.9” E).

o Two adult Woodland Blind Snakes (Ramphotyphlops Proximus) were recorded on Swainsona Reserve within the brood chamber of a large ant nest (Rhytidoponera sp.). The ant nest was constructed beneath a deeply embedded rock. This location was approximately within 20 m from an existing mountain bike trail (Mix Tape) (36°07’23.7” S 146°48’05.1” E).

• The Dwyer’s Snake (Parasuta dwyeri), Olive Legless Lizard (Delma inornata), Eastern Stone Gecko (Diplodactylus vittatus) and Burton’s Snake-lizard (Lialis burtonis) are locally uncommon and have rarely been recorded with the Wodonga LGA. None of these species have previously been recorded within the Fell Timber Creek Conservation Reserve (VBA 2017).

• Average HabHa score across the NCR was 59/100, however there was a distinct difference in scores between areas subject to cattle grazing (53/100) and those where stock have been excluded (64/100).

• The majority of the NCR is dominated by annual exotic grasses in the Spring and exotic perennial grasses like Rye or Phalaris in higher fertility areas, making it very difficult for the persistence and expansion of sensitive forbs like Blue pincushion (Brunonia australis), lilies and orchids.

• The competition posed by these grass (or grass like) species is the main threat to the conservation values of the NCR. Soil damage, trampling of plants and erosion from inappropriate mountain bike trail use is certainly not assisting the situation, but if managed appropriately, it does not pose a significant threat to NCR inherent values when considering the overall threats posed by species competition.

• The survey team encountered a 12,300 m² patch of Smooth Darling pea (Swainsona galegifolia) with an anticipated density of between 500 & 800 individual plants (Map 5).

• The population is persisting, and perhaps expanding along a steep (between 20° & 35°) heavily timbered south-facing slope dominated by Red Stringybark (Eucalyptus macrorhyncha) and Red Box (E.polyanthemos) on the drier upper slopes, with Apple Box (E. bridgesiana) and Long-leaf Box (E. goniocalyx) on lower slopes and in gullies to the north and south of the ridge.

• The ‘Mixed Tape’ mountain bike track dissects the patch area and does not appear to be affecting the distribution and/or health of the population.

• Threatened flora species were not recorded anywhere else in the NCR. However, species that are perhaps considered indicator species of low disturbance sites (i.e. un-grazed or lightly stocked environs) or companion species to threatened species (i.e. those that share growth form characteristics, life-cycle patterns, slope and aspects etc) were recorded.


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7. DISCUSSION This report has considered present day land uses and activities associated with Felltimber Creek NCR while attempting to highlight all potential impacts that those (and future activities) may have on the receiving environment and local biodiversity. The field assessments have demonstrated that:

1. The confirmed presence of two (2) fauna species listed on the DSE advisory list (FFG Act) and five (5) other species of reptile that are locally uncommon and have rarely been recorded with the Wodonga LGA. None of these species have previously been recorded within the Fell Timber Creek Conservation Reserve (VBA 2017).

2. The confirmed presence of a 12,300 m² patch of Smooth Darling pea (Swainsona galegifolia) approximately with an anticipated density of between 500 & 800 individual plants. S. galegifolia is listed as Threatened in accordance with Section 10 of the FFG Act 1998.

3. Threatened flora species were not recorded anywhere else in the NCR. However, species that are perhaps considered indicator species of low disturbance sites (i.e. un-grazed or lightly stocked environs) or companion species to threatened species (i.e. those that share growth form characteristics, life-cycle patterns, slope and aspects etc) were recorded.

4. Average HabHa score relating to native vegetation across the NCR was 59/100, however there was a distinct difference in scores between areas subject to cattle grazing (53/100) and those where stock have been excluded (64/100).

5. Vegetation losses attributable to the establishment of the trail network were calculated to be 2.21 ha, comprising only remnant patches and no (zero) scattered trees, across Location Zone A and Location Zone C (Figure 2). Native vegetation removal within Location Zone C is expected to have a high impact on the local landscape.

6. The majority of the NCR is dominated by annual exotic grasses in the Spring and exotic perennial grasses like Rye or Phalaris in higher fertility areas, making it very difficult for the persistence and expansion of sensitive forbs like Blue pincushion (Brunonia australis), lilies and orchids. A significant proportion of McFarlanes Hill reserve is also used for controlled grazing by cattle under a lease arrangement managed by PAW. The competition posed by these grass (or grass like) species and continued grazing under the current paddock plan, are the main threats to the conservation values of the NCR.

7. If managed appropriately, mountain bike trail riding within the current network of tracks, does not pose a significant threat to the reserves inherent values when considering the overall threats posed by competition from annual exotic grasses in the Spring and exotic perennial grasses like Rye or Phalaris in the summer months.

8. Results of the IMBA Assessment concluded that of the 17.38 km of trails assessed3: o 3.8 km of the existing network should be closed as it does not meet the IMBA requirements; o 3.1 km of the existing network requires immediate maintenance for the track to remain open; and o 10.4 km of the existing network can remain open as it satisfies the IMBA requirements.

3 The remaining 5.92 km that were not assessed consist of animal tracks and vehicle access that may form part of the trail network opportunistically.


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8. RECOMMENDATIONS The recommendations from this report cover three (3) themes: 1. Planning for impact minimisation & avoidance, 2. Strategies to reduce the impacts of current NCR uses on the environment; and 3. Rehabilitation & enhancement of threatened species habitat.

8.1 Planning for Impact Minimisation & Avoidance

Notwithstanding the obvious ecological assets and identified values of the Felltimber NCR, it is useful to consider the site in context with the mountain bike trail areas on Nail Can Hill in Albury, NSW (~10 km north) to gain some perspective.

The track network on Nail Can Hill is arguably located in an area of much higher conservation significance with higher quality understorey (pers.comm N.Jones & D.Michael 2017), yet Nail Can Hill provides great examples of how passive recreation pursuits (bush-walking etc) and bike riding can co-exist in a patch of extremely high quality.

Based on consideration of ecological values, threatened species, Aboriginal Cultural Heritage sensitivities and the IMBA Assessment, Red-Gum recommends:

Rec1: In McFarlanes Hill reserve, PAW oversee the implementation of a single UP and DOWN Main Track Loop (9.8 km) and a single UP and DOWN Mini-Track Loop (4.3 km) that both begin and end at the current car-park area on Felltimber Creek Road as shown in Map 6 & Map 7. The new loops will see the closure of 9.4 km of DOWN trail, 4.6 km of UP trail and 700m of ‘un-specified’ trail, which is an overall reduction in trails by 63% in the NCR. The “Mixed Tape” alignment through Swainsona reserve is to remain open, with some closures and realignments (Map 8).

Rec2: PAW seek the appropriate (and necessary) statutory approvals for the construction of 1.27 km of purpose built mountain bike trail to:

• Turn the end of trail “V2” in McFarlanes Hill reserve from a DOWN trail to an UP trail (Map 9);

• Facilitate a complete re-build of “Cattle Track” in Mcfarlanes Hill reserve totalling 530m to facilitate the user experience on Main Track Loop DOWN;

• Realign the end of “Mixed Tape” trail before it crosses the un-named waterway to prevent further erosion & realign “Mixed Tape” so that it avoids future harm to a patch of Swainsona galegifolia in the Swainsona reserve (Map 10); and

• Construct 720m of new walking trail to facilitate separation between mountain bike trail users and walking trail users.

Rec3: PAW consider the development of a new carpark, finish line facilities and interpretation hub at the site of the existing ‘Events centre’ off Felltimber Creek Road (Map 11). The site is of little value floristically, being dominated by exotic annual grasses, is highly disturbed by prior earthworks, is flat and well connected to the proposed new alignments. The area is however within the mapped extent of VAHR 8225-0209 and a CHMP will be required before any new development is proposed.


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Map 6: Existing v Proposed Mountain Bike Trail Network, McFarlanes Hill reserve, 2017


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Map 7: New Main Loop vs Mini Loop Trails on McFarlanes Hill reserve


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Map 8: Existing v Proposed Mountain Bike Trail Network, Swainsona reserve, 2017


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Map 9: Proposed Trail realignments on “V2”, McFarlanes Hill reserve.


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Map 10: Proposed Trail Realignments, “Mixed Tape” trail, Swainsona reserve.


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Map 11: Proposed site of new Parking, Interpretation & Events Centre


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8.2 Strategies to reduce the impacts of current NCR uses on the environment

With appropriate signage and interpretation, there are many opportunities for effective and meaningful community engagement, regardless of their personal interpretation of the values of the NCR as a whole. This in turn may promote further appreciation of conservation reserves and rationales for provision of funding for their maintenance.

In addition, and by means of mobilising community engagement, PAW may be able to address long-term erosion issues on the existing walking trail. It should be noted that while there were notable areas of erosion on the bike trail network, some of the worst erosion was encountered on poorly designed and sited walking trails.

The engagement of the MTB community in conservation activities and planning is essential for the future of the NCR and as per the Nail Can example, appropriate management zoning can buffer areas of ecological sensitivity and implement landscape appropriate treatments that minimise detrimental effects on the best patches of habitat.

Rec4: PAW engage appropriately qualified personnel and contractors to improve drainage and halt erosion on the 630m section of walking trail that extends from Main Loop DOWN to the first creek crossing, east of the events centre. The area, whilst not subject to this assessment, was identified as the worst area of track erosion in the NCR.

Rec5: PAW engage appropriately qualified personnel and contractors to decommission all but the main walking trail at the entry to the Ridge Walking Trail. This area is a very wet, steep southern aspect where access should be controlled and minimised wherever and whenever possible.

Rec6: PAW develop a whole of reserve Management Plan that builds upon past efforts at strategic planning, incorporates the findings of this assessment and considers the Management Zones map (Map 12) and Fencing Concept map (Map 13) for McFarlanes Hill reserve. Swainsona reserve is largely un-grazed at present and the paddock plan is adequate.

Rec7: PAW develop a Signage Strategy for the new Main Loop and Mini-Loop Trails. The signage strategy is to be focussed on clear rider navigation, directing users to trails of appropriate difficulty, and risk mitigation. All trails are to include signage with trail names and trail grade, flags hazards to riders effectively and easily read and understood. See Figure 3 & Figure 4 for examples.

Figure 3: Trail Signage examples


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Figure 4: Example Interpretive Signage


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Map 12: Proposed Management Zones


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Map 13: Fencing Concept Plan for McFarlanes Hill reserve


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8.3 Rehabilitation & enhancement of threatened species habitat

The majority of trails assessed on McFarlanes Hill are unlikely to have had a significant impact on threatened reptile habitat (Michael, 2017). This assessment is based on the fact that most of the trails are on the southern slopes of the hill, an aspect generally not conducive to high reptile diversity. Most of the trails on the lower slopes have not resulted in the displaced of surface rocks, although some sections of trail cross areas of exposed rock, this is unlikely to have has a significant impact on threatened reptile species habitat within the reserve.

Where potential impacts arise, they are on the upper slopes and on the northern and north-westerly aspects of the reserve, particularly where trails pass through rocky terrain. The displacement of rocks is potentially a threatening process, and one that can affect the micro-environment for threatened fossorial reptiles and their host ant species.

Although the Pink-tailed Worm-lizard (Aprasia parapulchella) (PTWL) was not recorded during the surveys, an area supporting high quality potential habitat for this threatened species was identified on Swainsona reserve on the upper section of the trail ‘mix tape’ (centre coordinates 36°07’28” S 146°48’08” E). This site supports a large, open grassy area with suitable amounts of shallowly-embedded surface rocks within the size-range used by the PTWL (typically dinner plate-sized rocks) (Michael and Herring 2005; Wong et al. 2011). The site has a gentle slope, a northerly aspect and supports a ground cover of native grasses. Approximately 40m of trail extends into the open grassy area and includes several jumps and berms. A large number of rocks have been displaced and repositioned along this section of the trail, including the construction of several rock piles. The open grassy area extends further up slope and connects with the location the Woodland Blind Snake (Ramphotyphlops Proximus) was recorded. Given the close proximity of these records and the presence of suitable habitat, it is likely that this species occurs in other open rocky areas throughout reserve.

A second site was identified along the trail ‘quartz accent’ (also known as Flinstone Trail) (trail head 36°07’13” S 146°49’10” E). The trail passes through a large section of suitable rocky habitat on the northern side of McFarlands Hill. It supports large amounts of shallowly-embedded surface rock of the preferred dimensions used by the PTWL, some native grass and areas of open canopy cover, although the ground cover is heavily dominated by exotic grasses and broad-leaved weeds. In this area, trail construction has involved the displacement and disturbance of significant amounts of surface rock, with many suitably-sized rocks having been removed and placed in small piles along the trail. The disturbance and removal of surface rocks (habitat degradation) is one of the main processes that threaten PTWL populations in Victoria and New South Wales (Wong et al. 2015).

Rec8: Restrict further trail construction to the minimum disturbance footprint required to facilitate the proposed Main-Loop Trail and Mini-Loop Trail (Map 6 & 7). This includes vehicle access parameters required for bushfire protection in accordance with Section 5.8 of the Hunchback Hill Cluster of Reserves Bushfire Management Plan 2017 (BMP) prepared by Terramatrix for PAW and CoW.

Rec 9: Any future trails and vehicle access planned within the NCR are not be constructed without a threatened flora and fauna impact assessment focussing on those that may be directly impacted but the type and scale of works (i.e. native reptiles and ground-dwelling birds or mammals).


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Rec10: Minimise disturbance to identified high-quality habitat. Implementing measures to avoid ongoing disturbance to the two areas identified in this assessment as supporting high-quality potential PTWL habitat is strongly recommended. This includes managing grazing pressure on McFarlanes Hill by introducing ‘zone based’ management of grazing (Map 12 & 13) and avoiding any further disturbance to surface rock microhabitat on Swainsona reserve.

Rec11: Dismantle rock piles on tracks deemed to be closed. All rock piles that have been created during the trail construction process should be deconstructed and repositioned so that the top layers of rock are placed in contact with the soil, in open areas away from the canopy of overstorey trees and away from existing trails. Rocks should be moved only during the summer months when reptiles are active and able to colonise repositioned rocks.

Rec12: Retain un-piled rocks used for berm construction. A number of reptile species (e.g. Eastern Stone Gecko, Eastern Striped Skink, Copper-tailed Skink and Southern Rainbow Skink) were recorded sheltering beneath single rocks that had been purposefully positioned along sections of the trails or used to construct berms. These rocks now provide habitat and therefore should be left in place should any trails be closed and rehabilitated. Likewise, any rocks with active ant nests should be left in situ.

Rec13: Threatened reptile monitoring. Further surveys for the PTWL and Woodland Blind Snake should be conducted between August and November 2018. Pitfall traps and funnel traps, in conjunction with active searches, are appropriate surveys methods for detecting this species.

Rec14: Compensatory habitat for threatened reptiles. PAW engage Dr Damian Michael to design a suitable threatened reptiles compensatory habitat plan to account for lost habitat caused by trail construction. The use roofing tiles or sheets of corrugated iron (artificial covers) (Michael et al. 2012) placed in strategic areas near the trails are to be monitored on a regular basis in accordance with Rec 13.

Rec15: Revegetation to offset native vegetation losses (as a result of the existing trail network) are to be EVC specific and targeted at areas within the Events centre precinct and proposed carpark area (Map 11). Revegetation density is to be mindful not to create un-manageable fire-fuel loads and wed management is to be prioritised. Non-obtrusive planting methods (i.e. hand planting) is to be used in both Statutory and Non-Statutory Aboriginal Cultural Heritage sensitivity zones (Map 14). No deep rip or direct seeding in these areas.

Rec16: Use of vehicle access tracks to link new loop trails. PAW is to engage with the mountain bike community and the Country Fire Authority on ways a means to design access appropriate dual-purpose access in the NCR. Primarily on the ascent to Main-Loop trail and top of Quartz DOWN and through the grazing management zone connecting Quartz DOWN to the proposed carpark area off Felltimber Creek Road.

Rec17: Existing track management (especially within McFarlanes Hill reserve) is to be mindful of Rec 9 & 10 when proposing annual maintenance, redesign and/or redevelopment of vehicle access tracks noting that the minimum allowable specifications in section 5.8 of the BMP are not always practical or appropriate.


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Map 14: Mapped areas of Cultural Heritage sensitivity and Registered Aboriginal Sites


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9. REFERENCES & BIBLIOGRAPHY ALA (2017) Atlas of living Australia. www.ala.org.au (Accessed 10 May, 2017).

ASRIS, 2014. Australian Soil Resources Information System Online Map. URL: http://www.asris.csiro.au/mapping/viewer.htm Date Accessed: July 2017.

Australian Government, 2015. Department of the Environment: EPBC Act Protected Matters Search Tool. URL: http://www.environment.gov.au/epbc/protected---matters---search---tool Date Accessed: July 2017.

Craib, J.L. 1991, Archaeological Survey in the Moira-Millewa State Forests, Report to National Parks and Wildlife Service, NSW.

Cuddy, J., A. Maclean, R. Ryan and M. Kelly, 1993, Statement of Resources, Uses and Values for the Mid Murray Forest Management Area, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Trade & Resources (DEDJTR), 2017. Online Geological Map. URL: http://www.energyandresources.vic.gov.au/earth---resources/maps---reports--- and---data/geovic Date Accessed: July 2017

Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning (DELWP), 2017. Biodiversity Atlas. URL: http://maps.biodiversity.vic.gov.au/viewer/?viewer=NatureKit Date Accessed: July 2017.

Department of Environment, Land, Water & Planning (DELWP), 2017. Ecological Vegetation Class Benchmarks. URL: http://www.delwp.vic.gov.au/environment---and---wildlife/biodiversity/evc--- benchmarks Date Accessed: July 2017.

Department of Transport, Planning and Local Infrastructure, 2017. Victorian Planning Schemes Online. URL: http://planningschemes.dpcd.vic.gov.au/schemes/vpps Date Accessed: July 2017.

Dunn, M. & Wall, D.J 2015 Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Management Plan for McFarlanes Hill Mountain Bike Network. Produced for Parklands Alburt-Wodonga. CHMP13204.

Environment Protection Authority (EPA Vic), 2014. Environmental Audit: Certificates and Statements. URL: http://www.epa.vic.gov.au/our-work/environmental-auditing/environmental-audit-reports-online Date Accessed: July 2017

Environment Protection Authority (EPA Vic), 2014. Priority Sites Register. URL: http://www.epa.vic.gov.au/your-environment/land-and-groundwater/priority-sites-register.Date Accessed: July 2017.

Michael, D.R. (2004) Distribution, habitat preferences and conservation status of reptiles in the Albury-Wodonga region. The Victorian Naturalist 121, 180-193.

Michael, D.R. and Alexander, J. (2015) Historical records of the Inland Carpet Python Morelia spilota metcalfei (Serpentes: Pythonidae) in North East Victoria and the implications for fire planning. The Victorian Naturalist 132, 36-43.

Michael, D.R. and Herring, M.W. (2005) Habitat of the Pink-tailed Worm-lizard Aprasia parapulchella in Albury, NSW. Herpetofauna 35, 103-111.

Michael, D.R. and Lindenmayer, D.B. (2008) Records of the Inland Carpet Python, Morelia spilota metcalfei (Serpentes: Pythonidae), from the South-western Slopes of New South Wales. Proceedings of the Linnean Society of New South Wales 129, 253-261.

http://www.asris.csiro.au/mapping/viewer.htm

http://www.environment.gov.au/epbc/protected-

http://www.energyandresources.vic.gov.au/earth-

http://mapshare2.dse.vic.gov.au/MapShare2EXT/imf.jsp?site=bim

http://mapshare2.dse.vic.gov.au/MapShare2EXT/imf.jsp?site=bim

http://www.delwp.vic.gov.au/environment-

http://planningschemes.dpcd.vic.gov.au/schemes/vpps

http://www.epa.vic.gov.au/our-work/environmental-auditing/environmental-audit-reports-online

http://www.epa.vic.gov.au/your-environment/land-and-groundwater/priority-sites-register


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Michael, D.R. and Lindenmayer, D.B. (2010) Reptiles of the NSW Murray catchment: a guide to their identification, ecology and conservation. CSIRO Publishing, Collingwood, Melbourne.

Michael, D.R., Cunningham, R.B., Donnelly, C.F. and Lindenmayer, D.B. (2012) Comparative use of active searches and artificial refuges to survey reptiles in temperate eucalypt woodlands. Wildlife Research 39, 149-162.

VBA (2017) Victorian Biodiversity Atlas. www.vba.dse.vic.gov.au (Accessed 10 May, 2017).

Webb, J.K. and Shine, R. (2000) Paving the way for habitat restoration: can artificial rocks restore degraded habitats of endangered reptiles? Biological Conservation 92, 93-99.

Wong, D.T.Y, Brown, G.W., Jones, S.R., Osborne, W.S., Robertson, P., Michael, D.R. and Kay, G. (2011) The life history and ecology of the Pink-tailed Worm Lizard Aprasia parapulchella Kluge – A review. Australian Zoologist 35, 927-940.


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10. APPENDIX Appendix A: Flora Species Recorded on Site

Scientific Name Common Name Exotic

Trees Apple Box Eucalyptus bridgesiana Blakely’s Red Gum Eucalyptus blakelyi Bundy Eucalyptus goniocalyx Kurrajong Brachychiton populneus Red Box Eucalyptus polyanthemus Red Stringybark Eucalyptus macrorhyncha Weeping Willow Salix babylonica * White Box Eucalyptus albens White Cypress-pine Callitris columellaris Shrubs Apple tree Malus sp. * Austral Indigo Indigofera australis Blackberry Rubus fruticosus L. agg. * Blackwood Acacia melanoxylon Box elder Acer negundo * Box mistletoe Amyema miquelii Broad leaf privet Ligustrum lucidum * Cherry Ballart Exocarpos cupressiformis Cherry Plum Prunus sp. * Crab Apple Malus sp. * Curved Rice-flower Pimelea curviflora s.s. Diggers Speedwell Veronica perfoliata Drooping Sheoak Allocasuarina verticillata Erect Guinea Flower Hibbertia riparia Fig tree Ficus carica * Grey Guinea Flower Hibbertia obtusifolia Grey Parrot Pea Dillwynia cinerascens Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna * Lightwood Acacia Implexa Narrow-leaf Bitter Pea Daviesia leptophylla Narrow-leaf Hop Bush Dodonaea viscosa ssp. angustissima Native Raspberry Rubus parvifolius Nettle Tree Celtis australis * Red-stem Wattle Acacia rubida Shiny Cassinia Cassinia longifolia Silver Wattle Acacia dealbata Sweet Bursaria Bursaria spinosa Sticky Everlasting Xerochrysum viscosum Sweet Briar Rosa rubiginosa * Tree Tobacco Nicotiana glauca *


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Varnish wattle Acacia vernicifula White Cedar Melia azedarach * Herbs Austral Bears Ear Cymbonotus preissianus Austral Cranesbill Geranium solanderi s.l. Australian Sheep’s Burr Acaena echinata Bastard's fumitory Fumaria bastardii * Birds Foot Trefoil Lotus corniculatus * Black-anther Flax-lily Dianella revoluta s.l. Blackberry nightshade Solanum nigrum * Blue Pincushion Brunonia australis Bulbine Lily Bulbine bulbosa Canadian Fleabane Conyza canadensis * Capeweed Arctotheca calendula * Cat’s Ear Hypochaeris radicata * Chocolate Lily Arthropodium strictum s.l. Cleavers Galium aparine * Clustered Dock Rumex conglomeratus * Common Centaury Centaurium erythraea * Common Heliotrope Heliotropium europaeum * Common Onion Orchid Microtis unifolia Common Raspwort Gonocarpus tetragynus Common Spike-sedge Eleocharis acuta Common vetch Vicia satvia * Common Woodruff Asperula conferta Cotton Fireweed Senecio quadridentatus Creeping Knotweed Persicaria prostrata Curly dock Rumex sp. * Duckweed Lemna sp. Dwarf Mallow Malva sp. * Early Nancy Wurmbea dioca Evening primrose Oenothera sp. * Fiddle Dock Rumex pulcher * Fireweed Groundsell Sinecio linearifolius Fleabane Conyza bonariensis * Garden Geranium Pelargonium alchemilloides * Grassland Wood-sorrel Oxalis perennans Greenhood Orchid Pterostylis concinna Hairy Burr-daisy Calotis hispidula Hares-foot Clover Trifolium arvense var. arvense * Hawksbit Leontodon taraxacoides * Hill Raspwort Gonocarpus elatus Hollow Rush Juncus amabilis Hop Clover Trifolium campestre var. campestre * Jersey Cudweed Pseudognaphalium luteoalbum Kidney Weed Dichondra repens


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Lesser Broomrape Orobanche minor * Little Bluebell Whalenbergia Mallow Malva sp. * Milk Maids Burchardia umbellata Native Carrot Daucus sp Native Dock Rumex sp. Nodding blue lily Stypandra glauca Paddy Melon Cucumis myriocarpus * Patterson’s Curse Echium plantagineum * Pink bindweed Convolvulus arvensis Plantain Plantago lanceolata * Purple Top Verbena bonariensis * Red Inkweed Phytolacca octandra * Scaly Buttons Leptorhynchos squamatus Scarlett Pimpernell Anagallis arvensis * Sheep Sorrel Rumex acetosella * Skeleton Weed Chondrilla juncea * Slender Darling Pea Swainsona galegifolia Slender Fireweed Senecio tenuiflorus Slender Thistle Carduus pycnocephalus * Slender tick-trefoil Desmodium varians Small Loosestrife Lythrum hyssopifolia Small St. John’s Wort Hypericum gramineum Sow Thistle Sonchus oleraceus * Spear Thistle Cirsium vulgare * St. John’s Wort Hypericum perforatum * Stinking Pennywort Hydrocotyle laxiflora Tall Bluebell Wahlenbergia stricta Tall Cudweed Gnaphalium microcephalum Tall Flat-sedge Cyperus exaltatus Tall Raspwort Gonocarpus elatus Tall Sedge Carex appressa Tall Sundew Drosera peltata ssp. auriculata tiny star Yucca gloriosa Toad flax Linaria vulgaris * Twiggy mullein Verbascum virgatum * Twining Fringe Lily Thysanotus patersonii Twining Glycine Glycine clandestina Vanilla Lily Arthropodium milleflorum s.l. Variable Sida Sida corrugata Variegated Thistle Silybum marianum * Water Pepper Persicaria hydropiper Water Primrose Ludwigia peploides Wattle mat-rush Lomandra filiformis White Clover Trifolium repens * Wild mint Mentha sp. *


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Willow herb Epilobium billardierianum Wireweed Polygonum aviculare * Yam Daisy Microseris sp. Yellow Clover Trifolium sp * Yellow Rush-lily Tricoryne elatior Prickly Lettuce Lactuca serriola * Horehound Marrubium vulgare L. * Watercress Nasturtium officinale * Grasses Annual Fog Grass Holcus annuus * Annual Rye Grass Lolium rigidum * Annual veldt grass Ehrharta longiflora * Barley Grass Hordeum sp. * Barnyard Grass Echinochloa crus-galli * Basket Grass Lomandra longifolia Brome Bromus spp. * Brush Wire-grass Aristida behriana Cocks foot Dactylis glomerata * Common Tussock Grass Poa labillardierei var. labillardierei Common Wallaby-grass Austrodanthonia caespitosa Couch Grass Elymus repens * Crows foot grass Eleusine indica * Dense Spear-grass Austrostipa densiflora False Hair-grass Pentaschistis airoides ssp. airoides Great brome Bromus diandrus * Grey tussock grass Poa sieberiana Hedgehog Grass Echinopogon caespitosus Kangaroo Grass Themada trianda Kentucky Blue grass Poa pratensis * Kerosene Grass Aristida ramosa Kikuyu Grass Pennisetum clandestinum * Large Quaking-grass Briza maxima * Lesser Quaking-grass Briza minor * Onion Grass Romulea rosea * Panic Grass Panicum sp. Paspalum Paspalum dilitatum * Perennial Rye Lolium perenne * Phalaris Phalaris aquatica * Pigeon Grass Setaria gracillis * Prairie Grass Bromus catharticus * Red Anther Wallaby Grass Joycea pallida Red-leg Grass Bothriochloa macra Rough Dogs Tail Grass Cynosurus echinatus * Rough Spear-grass Austrostipa scabra Silver grass Vulpia myuros * Soft Brome Bromus hordeaceus *


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Stink Grass Eragrostis cilianensis * Sweet Vernal-grass Anthoxanthum odoratum * Sword sedge Lepidosperma gladiatum Tall Fescue Festuca arundinacea * Water couch Paspalum distichum Weeping Grass Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides Wild Oats Avena fatua * Winter Grass Poa annua * Yorkshire Fog Holcus lanatus * Ferns Bat-wing Fern Histiopteris incisa Bracken Pteridium sp. Green Rock Fern Cheilanthes austrotenuifolia Maidenhair fern Adiantum sp. Mother Shield Fern Polystichum proliferum Narrow Rock-fern Cheilanthes sieberi Necklace fern Asplenium flabellifolium *Exotic species have been categorised based on their level of threat.

E Environmental Weed P Regionally Prohibited Weed C Regionally Controlled Weed R State Restricted Weed ‘#’ Non---Local Native Species


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Appendix B: Fauna Species Recorded on Site during targeted surveys

Scientific Name Common Name Listed in EPBC Act Listed in FFG Act Diplodactylus vittatus

Eastern Stone Gecko Delma inornata Olive Legless Lizard Lialis burtonis Burton’s Legless Lizard Ctenotus spaldingi Eastern Striped Skink Ctenotus taeniolatus Copper-tailed Skink Carlia tetradactyla Southern Rainbow Skink Lampropholis guichenoti Garden Skink Lerista bougainvillii Bougainville’s Skink Morethia boulengeri Boulenger’s Skink Parasuta dwyeri Dwyer’s Snake Anilos proximus Woodland Blind Snake Varanus varius Lace Monitor Trichosurus vulpecula Brush-tailed possum Podargus strigoides Tawny frogmouth Tyto alba Barn owl

*Exotic or introduced species


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Appendix C: Threatened Flora Species – EPBC Act

Species Preferred Habitat FFG Act Status

EPBC Act Status Likelihood¹

Ecological Communities Buloke Woodlands of the Riverina and Murray-Darling Depression Bioregions

N/A N/A Endangered No

White Box – Yellow Box – Blakleys’s Red Gum Grassy Woodland and Derived Native Grassland

N/A N/A Critically endangered

No

Grey Box (Eucalyptus microcarpa) Grassy Woodlands and Derived Native Grasslands of South-eastern Australia

N/A N/A Endangered No

Plants Amphibromus fluitan (River Swamp Wallaby-grass, Floating Swamp Wallaby-grass)

Permanent swamps, lagoons, billabongs, dams and roadside ditches.

Not Listed. Vulnerable No

Caladenia concolor – Crimson Spider-orchid

A variety of woodland and open forest habitats, usually within Box-Ironbark ecosystems.

Listed Vulnerable Potential

Glycine latrobeana – Clover Glycine

Native grasslands, dry sclerophyll forests, woodlands and low open woodlands with a grassy ground layer

Not Listed Vulnerable Potential

Prasophyllum petilum – Tarengo Leek Orchid

Relatively fertile soils in grassy woodland or natural grassland.

Not Listed Endangered Unlikely

Prasophyllum validum – Sturdy Leek-orchid

Relatively undisturbed woodland.

Threatened Vulnerable Unlikely

Swainsona recta – Small Purple-pea

Often associated with Box-gum woodland.

Listed Endangered Unlikely

¹ Five categories for the ‘likelihood of occurrence’ have been used. The categories are based on recorded sightings listed in credible databases, the presence or absence of suitable habitat, other features of the site, results of the field survey and professional judgement. The 5 categories are:

‘Yes’ The species/community was or has been observed on the site. ‘Likely’ A medium to High probability that a species uses the site. ‘Potential’ A suitable habitat for a species occurs on the site, but there is insufficient information to

categorise the species as ‘likely’ or ‘unlikely’ to occur. ‘Unlikely’ A Very Low to Low probability that a species uses the site. ‘No’ Habitat on the site and in the vicinity in unsuitable for the species.


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Appendix D: Threatened Fauna Species – EPBC Act

Species Preferred Habitat FFG Act Status EPBC Act Status Likelihood¹

Birds Anthochaera phrygia - Regent Honeyeater

Dry open forest and woodlands on inland slopes and valleys


Botaurus poiciloptilus - Australasian Bittern

Southern coastal areas and in the Murray River region of central northern Victoria


Calidris ferruginea - Curlew Sandpiper

Intertidal mudflats in sheltered coastal areas and around non-tidal swamps, lakes and lagoons near the coast, and ponds in saltworks and sewage farms.

Listed Critically endangered

Unlikely

Grantiella picta - Painted Honeyeater

Inhabits mistletoes in eucalypt forests/woodlands, riparian woodlands of black box and river red gum, box-ironbark-yellow gum woodlands.

Listed Vulnerable Unlikely

Lathamus discolor - Swift Parrot

Forests and box gum woodlands dominated by winter flowering eucalypts


Numenius madagascariensis - Eastern Curelw, Far Eastern Curlew

Sheltered coasts, mangrove swamps, bays, harbours and lagoons that contain mudflats and sandflats, often with beds of seagrass.


Unlikely

Pedionomus torquatus - Plains-wanderer

Sparse grasslands with ~50% bare ground, with most vegetation less than 5 cm in height and some widely-spaced plants up to 30 cm high.


Unlikely

Rostratula australis --- Australian Painted Snipe

Margins of densely vegetated swamps and wetlands


Fish Galaxias rostratus - Flathead Galaxias

Still or slow flowing waters. Spawns in spring when water temperatures rise above 10.5°C.


No

Maccullochella peelii — Murray Cod

Complex structural cover such as large rocks and snags.

Listed Vulnerable No

Macquaria australasica — Macquarie Perch

Upper reaches of the Mitta Mitta, Ovens, and Broken Rivers.

Listed Endangered No

Frogs Litoria raniformis – Southern Bell Frog

Semi-permanent swamps, streams and lagoons

Listed Vulnerable No

Insects Synemon plana – Golden Sun Moth

Native temperate grassland and open grassy woodlands dominated by wallaby grass.

Listed Critically Endangered

No


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Mammals Nyctophilus corbeni – Corben’s Long-eared Bat

Tree hollows, crevices and under loose bark in box, ironbark and cypress-pine woodlands.


Petauroides Volans – Greater Glider

Old growth forests and large remnant patches.

Not Listed Vulnerable Unlikely

Phascolarctos cinereus – Koala

Temperate, sub-tropical and tropical forest, woodland and semi-arid communities dominated by Eucalyptus species.

Not Listed Vulnerable Unlikely

Pteropus poliocephalus – Grey-headed Flying-fox

Rainforests, open forests, closed and open woodlands, Melaleuca swamps and Banksia woodlands.


Reptiles Aprasia parapulchella --- Pink--- tailed Worm - lizard

Grassy woodland and woodland communities including mallee.

Listed Vulnerable Potential

Delma impar - Striped Legless Lizard

Natural Temperate Grassland of the Victorian Volcanic Plain; Grassy Eucalypt Woodland of the Victorian Volcanic Plain.


Migratory Marine Birds

Apus pacificus --- Fork---tailed Swift

Spend most their life airborne. Build their nests on cliffs.

Not Listed Migratory Unlikely

Migratory Terrestrial Birds

Hirundapus caudacutus – White-throated Needletail

Almost exclusively aerial. Above wooded areas, including open forest and rainforest, and may also fly between trees or in clearings, below the canopy. They also commonly occur over heathland.


Monarcha melanopsis – Black-faced Monarch

Primarily rainforest systems and nearby open eucalypt forests.


Motacilla flava – Yellow Wagtail

Damp or wet areas with low vegetation, e.g. pastures, meadows, hay fields and marshes, damp steppe and grassy tundra.


Myiagra cyanoleuca – Satin Flycatcher

Heavily vegetated gullies in eucalypt-dominated forests and taller woodlands.


Rhipidura rufifrons – Rufous Fantail

Wet sclerophyll forests, often in gullies dominated by eucalypts.


Migratory Wetland Birds

Actitis hypoleucos – Common Sandpiper

Mostly found around muddy margins or rocky shores and rarely on mudflats



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Calidris acuminata – Sharp-tailed Sandpiper

Muddy edges of shallow fresh or brackish wetlands, with inundated or emergent sedges, grass, saltmarsh or other low vegetation


Calidris melanotos – Pectoal Sandpiper

Shallow fresh to saline wetlands Not Listed Migratory Unlikely

Gallinago hardwickii - Latham's Snipe, Japanese Snipe

Permanent and ephemeral wetlands in temperate and tropical regions.


Calidris ferruginea – Curlew Sandpiper

Intertidal mudflats in sheltered coastal areas, such as estuaries, bays, inlets and lagoons.

Not Listed Migratory/Critically Endangered

Unlikely

Numenius madagascariensis – Eastern Curlew

Intertidal mudflats and sandflats, often with beds of seagrass, on sheltered coasts, especially estuaries, mangrove swamps, bays, harbours and lagoons.

Not Listed Migratory/Critically Endangered

Unlikely

1 Five categories for the ‘likelihood of occurrence’ have been used. The categories are based on recorded sightings listed in credible databases, the presence or absence of suitable habitat, other features of the site, results of the field survey and professional judgement. The 5 categories are:




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Appendix E: Threatened Flora Species – FFG Act


Senecio garlandii – Wooly Ragwort

Dry sclerophyll forest and open woodland. Found on upper parts of rocky outcrops on south and south-east slopes.

Listed, Endangered (DEPI Advisory List)

Not Listed Potential

Swainsona galegifolia – Smooth Darling-pea

Two known populations in NE Victoria, including one in the NCR.


Not Listed Yes




Appendix F: Threatened Fauna Species – FFG Act

Species Preferred Habitat FFG Act Status EPBC Act Status

Likelihood¹

Bird Ardea modesta – Eastern Great Egret

Found in most wetland types

Listed, Vulnerable (DEPI Advisory List)

Not Listed Unlikely

Porzana pusilla palustris – Baillon’s Crake

Vegetated wetlands, usually with fresh or brackish water, preferably with floating aquatic vegetation.

Vulnerable (DEPI Advisory List)

Not Listed Unlikely.

Stagonopleura guttate – Diamond Firetail

Grassy eucalypt woodlands, including Box-Gum Woodlands.

Listed, Near Threatened (DEPI Advisory List)

Not Listed Potential.

Ninox connivens connivens – Barking Owl

Inhabits woodland and open forest, including fragmented remnants and partly cleared farmland.




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Species Preferred Habitat FFG Act Status EPBC Act Status

Likelihood¹

Oxyura australis – Blue-billed Duck

Large, deep open freshwater dams and lakes


Not Listed No.

Reptiles Vermicella annulata – Bandy Bandy

Found in a variety of habitats. Preys on blind snakes

Listed, Vulnerable (DEPI Advisory List)


Fish Macquaria ambigua – Golden Perch

Warm, turbid, slow-flowing rivers.


Not Listed No.

Invertebrates Euastacus armatus – Murray Spiny Crayfish

Aquatic habitats, feeding on decaying plant and animal matter.


Not Listed No.

Mammals Petaurus norfolcensis - Squirrel glider

Inhabits mature or old growth Box, Box-Ironbark woodlands and River Red Gum forest.


Not Listed Unlikely.





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Appendix I: Site Photos

Photo 1: Echidna recorded at top of Quartz Trail in PTWL habitat.

Photo 2: Olive legless lizard (Delma inorna) recorded in Swainsona reserve.


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Photo 3: Eastern Stone Gecko (Diplodactylus vittatus) recorded in Swainsona reserve and McFarlanes Hill reserve.

Photo 4: Coppertailed Skink (Ctenotus taeniolatus) recorded throughout both reserves.


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Photo 5: Greenhood Orchids (Pterostylis concinna) recorded adjacent to V2 up trail.

Photo 6: Swainsona galegifolia recorded adjacent to Mixed Tape trail in Swainsona reserve.


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Photo 7: Lace Monitor (Varanus varius) recorded on Quartz Trail DOWN in McFarlanes Hill reserve.

Photo 8: Woodland Blind snake (Anilos Proximus) recorded in Swainsona reserve.


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Photo 9: Potential PTWL habitat on north face of McFarlanes Hill showing Quartz UP to be closed.

Photo 10: Riden-in track over exotic pasture. Trail is stable but has not been purpose built and is susceptible to erosion eventually. To be closed.


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Photo 11: Scooby UP trail. Trail is small and stable. UP trails generally show less wear and are less susceptible to degradation.

Photo 12: Valley Grassy Forest at events centre. Area is of moderate value and is sustaining a good species mix despite trail network use.

felltimber creek nature conservation reserve...2017, the aboriginal cultural heritage due diligence...

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