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Mount Dore Mine Lease Expansion

Baseline Ecological Assessment

Prepared for

Ivanhoe Australia

Level 1, 282 Wickham Street Fortitude Valley, Queensland, 4006 PO Box 419, Fortitude Valley, 4006 Queensland, Australia Telephone +61 7 3852 3922 Facsmile +61 7 3852 4766 Email: [email protected] Web: www.placedesigngroup.com

PLACE DESIGN GROUP

Ivanhoe Australia Mount Dore Mine Lease (ICM08) Baseline Ecological Report

DISCLAIMER This report has been prepared in accordance with the scope of services described in the contract or agreement between PLACE Design Group Pty Ltd ACN 082 370063 (PDG) and the Client. The report relies upon data, surveys, measurements and results taken at or under the particular times and conditions specified herein. Any findings, conclusions or recommendations only apply to the aforementioned circumstances and no greater reliance should be assumed or drawn by the Client. Furthermore, the report has been prepared solely for use by the Client and PDG accepts no responsibility for its use by other parties.

REVIEW AND APPROVAL

Authored by: Valerie Bares Position: Senior Environmental Manager

Authored by: Chris Kahler Position: Botanist (Ecological Interpretation)

Reviewed by: Anna Maccheroni Position: Senior Environmental Planner

Approved by: Chris Isles Position: Manager – Planning

Date: 28/07/2012

Document Reference:

ICM08_MtDore_Ecological Assessment_v1.0.doc

Report: Post-wet Season Ecological Assessment for the Mount Dore ML Expansion

DOCUMENT HISTORY

Date Change Description Version No.

22/06/2012 Draft for Client Review 1.0 DRAFT

28/07/2012 Original 1.0

PLACE DESIGN GROUP

Ivanhoe Australia Mount Dore Mine Lease (ICM08) Baseline Ecological Report | Page i

GLOSSARY, ACRONYMS & ABBREVIATIONS

Term Definition

Arboreal Living in a tree or trees

Biodiversity The variety of all life forms, the genes they contain and the ecosystems and ecological processes they are part of

Bioregion Broad landscape patterns that reflect major structural geologies and climate as well as major changes in floristic and faunal assemblages

Connectivity A behaviourally determined, species specific parameter, which depends on both landscape composition and movement ability and of animals; a parameter that measures the processes by which sub-populations in a landscape are interconnected

Data Search Area An area defined as a 150 km radius around the Study Area (defined as a central point Latitude: 22.1026, Longitude: 140.5623).

DERM Department of Environment and Resource Management

DSEWPAC Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities

Ecological Corridors Retained and or restored systems of linear habitat, which at a minimum enhance the connectivity of wildlife populations and may help them overcome the main consequences of habitat fragmentation (Wilson & Lindenmeyer 1995); A defined area of contiguous habitat that facilitates the dispersal of subpopulations throughout the landscape. Corridors may be structural, being identifiable physical/spatial features of habitat, and functional being a measure of whether a species can move between habitat patches (Bennett 1990).

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

Fauna Animals of a given region or period considered as a whole

Flora The plants of a particular region, habitat or geological period (pl. floras or florae)

ha Hectare

HERBRECS Botanical database of the Queensland Herbarium

IAL Ivanhoe Australia Ltd

kHz Kilohertz

km Kilometre

LP Act Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002 (Qld)

m Metre

mm Millimetre

MGD Mitchell Grass Downs Bioregion

MII Mount Isa Inlier; subregion 3 of the NWH Bioregion

ML Mining Lease

NC Act Nature Conservation Act 1992 (Qld)

NES National Environmental Significance

NWH North West Highlands Bioregion

PDG PLACE Design Group

QLD Queensland

RE Regional Ecosystem; REs describe the relationship between vegetation communities in a particular bioregion that are consistently associated with a particular combination of geology, landform and soil

REDD Regional Ecosystem Description Database

SOCS Species of Conservation Significance

Study Area Part of the Mount Dore ML comprising 1,600 ha (approx.)

Terrestrial Ground dwelling

Threatened Species Species listed as critically Endangered, Endangered, Vulnerable in the EPBC Act or Endangered, Vulnerable and Near Threatened in the NC Act and Regulation

Vegetation Community An assembly of different species of plants growing together in a particular habitat; the floral component of an ecosystem

VM Act Vegetation Management Act 1999 (Qld)

WONS Weeds Of National Significance

PLACE DESIGN GROUP

Ivanhoe Australia Mount Dore Mine Lease (ICM08) Baseline Ecological Report | Page ii

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY In February 2012 Ivanhoe Australia (IA) engaged PLACE Design Group (PDG) to undertake post-wet season flora and fauna assessments for the Mount Dore Mine Lease (ML) group. IA intend to expand the current disturbance areas within the Mount Dore ML to create new dumps, stockpile areas, leaching facilities and evaporation ponds associated with a processing plant. This new disturbance area is sandwiched between the existing mining facilities and the airstrip which services the mine and comprises an area of approximately 1,600 hectares, forming the Study Area. Flora and fauna assessments were conducted in accordance with Department of Environment and Resource Management’s (DERM) “Guidelines for Flora Assessment in North Queensland” and “Recommended Fauna Survey Methodology for Environmental Impact Assessments”. Targeted surveys for known Species of Conservation Significance (SOCS) identified from database records and regional surveys were conducted by transects, meanders searches, incidental sightings, active trapping and habitat analysis. Field assessments were conducted during the late wet season (14 – 20 March, 2012) to capture the highest account of seasonal variations within the herb and forbs populations inhabiting the Study Area as well as seasonal migratory variance in fauna communities. Previous dry and post-wet season surveys were conducted by PDG in 2010 and 2011 respectively and those reports were used to support the findings of this current survey. Flora Of the 170 species recorded in the Study Area, none have a conservation status under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 (Qld) or the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth). One species, Brachychiton collinus is classified as a Type A plant under the Nature Conservation (Administration) Regulation 2006. A licence will be required for its removal but the regulation is aimed at controlling the trade of sought after plants. Of the 170 vascular plants recorded in the Study Area, 13 species or 7.6% are exotic species naturalised in Queensland. None of the species identified are declared weeds under the schedules of the Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route) Management Act 2002 (Qld). Vegetation Communities and Regional Ecosystem Thirteen vegetation communities were recorded in the Study Area. The assigned regional ecosystem (RE) codes have a management status under the Vegetation Management Act 1999 of Least Concern. However one RE has a biodiversity status of Endangered (RE 1.3.7) with two having a biodiversity status of Of Concern (RE 1.3.6 and RE 1.5.6). Fauna No fauna species identified in this survey have a conservation status under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 (Qld) or the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth). Based on the analysis of their likelihood of occurrence it is anticipated that 4 species (all birds) would utilise the Study Area however the proposed mine expansion would not have a significant impact on these species given their large home range. Landscape Ecological Values The proposed expansion would sever a large riparian channel which traverses the Study Area. This channel is one of the main ecological features of the Study Area, providing good quality habitat. However these channels are common in the area and its severance would not constitute a significant impact at the regional scale. Conclusion

PLACE DESIGN GROUP

Ivanhoe Australia Mount Dore Mine Lease (ICM08) Baseline Ecological Report | Page iii

The proposed expansion of the Mount Dore facilities occurs adjacent to the currently active areas of the ML. The proposed expansion will have a concise impact on vegetation and habitats within the Study Area and region. The impact proposed does not however result in the creation of new isolated activities. Due to this the likelihood of increased edge impacts will not significantly increase nor will any habitats be severed as a result. Direct physical habitat loss will result from the removal of approximately 1008 ha of remnant vegetation and their associated habitats. These habitats are well represented in the Study Area, and common throughout the region. Development would not result in the severance of significant habitat corridors, or affect ecological dispersal. The proposed expansion is not likely to cause a significant impact on these common habitats within the region nor are they likely to impact upon any known SOCS or threatened ecological communities/regional ecosystems. No threatened vegetation communities, flora, fauna or critical habitat features will be impacted upon by the proposed expansion works.

PLACE DESIGN GROUP

Ivanhoe Australia Mount Dore Mine Lease (ICM08) Baseline Ecological Report | Page iv

TABLE OF CONTENTS

GLOSSARY, ACRONYMS & ABBREVIATIONS ........................................................................................ I

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ..................................................................................................................... II

1.0 INTRODUCTION ....................................................................................................................... 1

1.1 Purpose and Intent ............................................................................................................ 1 1.2 Proposed Development ...................................................................................................... 1 1.3 Scope ................................................................................................................................ 1 1.4 Timing ............................................................................................................................... 2

2.0 REGIONAL SETTING................................................................................................................. 5

2.1 General.............................................................................................................................. 5 2.2 Climate .............................................................................................................................. 5 2.3 Bioregionalisation .............................................................................................................. 5 2.4 Land Zones ........................................................................................................................ 7 2.5 Vegetation and Regional Ecosystems ................................................................................. 9 2.6 Fauna and Habitats ............................................................................................................ 9 2.7 Previous Reports ................................................................................................................ 9

3.0 ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY ................................................................................................ 11

3.1 Desktop Review ............................................................................................................... 11 3.2 Field and Assessment Work ............................................................................................. 12

3.2.1 General ........................................................................................................... 12 3.2.2 Flora ................................................................................................................ 12 3.2.3 Fauna .............................................................................................................. 12

4.0 DESKTOP ASSESSMENT ......................................................................................................... 14

4.1 Background Data Review ................................................................................................. 14 4.2 Plants and Vegetation Communities ................................................................................ 14

4.2.1 Commonwealth Matters ................................................................................. 14 4.2.2 State Matters – Species of Conservation Significance ....................................... 14 4.2.3 State Matters – Weed and Pest Species ........................................................... 15

4.3 Fauna .............................................................................................................................. 17 4.3.1 Commonwealth Matters ................................................................................. 17 4.3.2 State Matters ................................................................................................... 17 4.3.3 Predictive Analysis ........................................................................................... 17

5.0 FLORA FIELD ASSESSMENT .................................................................................................... 22

5.1 Land Zones ...................................................................................................................... 22 5.2 Plant Species List .............................................................................................................. 22

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Ivanhoe Australia Mount Dore Mine Lease (ICM08) Baseline Ecological Report | Page v

5.3 Regional Ecosystems ........................................................................................................ 22 5.4 Species of Conservation Significance ............................................................................... 29 5.5 Vegetation Quality ........................................................................................................... 29 5.6 Exotic and Declared Species ............................................................................................. 30

6.0 FAUNA FIELD ASSESSMENT ................................................................................................... 31

6.1 Sampling Locations .......................................................................................................... 31 6.2 Fauna Species List ............................................................................................................ 31 6.3 Fauna Groups of the Study Area ...................................................................................... 32

6.3.1 Amphibians ..................................................................................................... 32 6.3.2 Reptiles ........................................................................................................... 32 6.3.3 Birds ................................................................................................................ 32 6.3.4 Mammals ........................................................................................................ 34

6.4 Species of Conservation Significance ............................................................................... 35 6.5 Exotic and Declared Pests ................................................................................................. 36 6.6 Habitats of the Study Area ............................................................................................... 38

6.6.1 North Western Section of Study Area .............................................................. 38 6.6.2 North Eastern Section of Study Area ................................................................ 39 6.6.3 Central Section of Study Area .......................................................................... 39 6.6.4 Southern Section of Study Area ....................................................................... 40

7.0 ECOLOGICAL CORRIDORS AND CONNECTIVITY .......................................................................... 41

8.0 POTENTIAL IMPACTS ............................................................................................................. 42

8.1 Overview of Operations ................................................................................................... 42 8.2 Effects on Flora ................................................................................................................ 42

8.2.1 Impacts on Vegetation Communities ............................................................... 42 8.2.2 Impacts on Flora SOCS .................................................................................... 43

8.3 Effects on Fauna .............................................................................................................. 43 8.3.1 Impacts on Habitat and Fauna ......................................................................... 43 8.3.2 Impacts on Fauna SOCS .................................................................................. 43

9.0 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ................................................................................. 45

REFERENCES ................................................................................................................................ 46

APPENDIX A CLIMATIC DATA ...................................................................................................... A

APPENDIX B DATABASE SEARCHES ............................................................................................... B

APPENDIX C SURVEY METHODOLOGY ........................................................................................... C

APPENDIX D FLORA SURVEY RESULTS .......................................................................................... D

APPENDIX E FAUNA SURVEY RESULTS ............................................................................................ E

PLACE DESIGN GROUP

Ivanhoe Australia Mount Dore Mine Lease (ICM08) Baseline Ecological Report | Page vi

FIGURES

Figure 1: Regional Context and Locality .......................................................................................... 3 Figure 2: Study Area ....................................................................................................................... 4 Figure 3: Bioregions of the Study Area ........................................................................................... 6 Figure 4: Geology of the Study Area ............................................................................................... 8 Figure 5: Vegetation Communities of the Study Area ................................................................... 23 Figure 6: Impact on Vegetation Communities ............................................................................... 44

PHOTOPLATES

Photoplate 1: Representative Photos of Mount Dore Vegetation Communities ............................. 24

TABLES

Table 1: Geological Descriptions (Relating to the 1:250,000 Map Sheets) ....................................... 7 Table 2: Habitat Quality Assessment ............................................................................................. 13 Table 3: Listed Weed Species of Cloncurry Shire ........................................................................... 15 Table 4: Flora Species of Conservation Significance Within the Region ......................................... 16 Table 5: Fauna Species of Conservation Significance Within the Region ....................................... 18 Table 6: Landzone Descriptions and Evidence to Support Landzone Determination ...................... 25 Table 7: RE code, Status and Area of Mapped Plant Communities ................................................ 26 Table 8: Brachychiton collinus location information ...................................................................... 29 Table 9: Integrity of Regional Ecosystems in the Study Area .......................................................... 29 Table 10: Mount Dore Fauna Species of Conservation Significance .............................................. 37 Table 11: Impact of Expansion on Remnant Regional Ecosystems ................................................. 42 Table 12: Faunal sampling techniques and their application .........................................................C5

PLACE DESIGN GROUP

Ivanhoe Australia Mount Dore Mine Lease (ICM08) Baseline Ecological Report | Page 1

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Purpose and Intent In February 2012 Ivanhoe Australia (IA) engaged PLACE Design Group (PDG) to undertake post-wet season flora and fauna assessments for the Mount Dore Mine Lease (ML) group (FIGURE 1). IA intend to expand the current disturbance areas within the Mount Dore ML to create new dumps, stockpile areas, leaching facilities and evaporation ponds associated with a processing plant (FIGURE 2). These investigations aimed to determine the area’s inherent ecological values, identify and assess potential effects resulting from the proposed expansion of the mine’s facilities as well as reviewing any applicable legislative constraints. PDG have previously completed detailed fauna and flora assessments throughout this region which include the following MLs and Haul Road alignments (FIGURE 1):

• Lady Ella ML; • Mount Elliott (1-5) MLs; • Lucky Luke ML and Haul Road; • Victoria ML; • Mt Cobalt ML; • Selwyn (1- 3) MLs; • Houdini ML; • Osborne ML; and • Trekelano ML and Haul Road.

1.2 Proposed Development The Mount Dore ML group consists of seven lease areas which are located approximately 110 kilometres (km) south of Cloncurry. The mine’s operations are serviced by an airstrip and a mine camp (FIGURE 1). The Study Area for this study overlapped the lease areas but also comprises the land between the ML group and the airstrip to cover an area of approximately 1,600 hectares (ha). FIGURE 2 illustrates the Study Area in context with the immediate surrounding landscape. IA provided PDG with coordinates for the Study Area to be investigated which did not include the totality of the proposed footprint (as provided to PDG in drawing “Ivanhoe Mt Dore, Layout Option 3”, dated Dec 2011, prepared by AMC Consultants).

1.3 Scope PDG conducted an initial desktop assessment of the Study Area’s vegetation and fauna values via the interrogation of relevant databases. The results were used to design targeted surveys for Species of Conservation Significance (SOCS) and provided the basis for any legislative constraint which may apply. PDG then undertook a detailed vegetation community, flora, fauna and fauna habitat assessment (including fauna trapping) of the 1,600 ha (approx.) Study Area. These surveys were conducted in accordance with (but not limited to) the Department of Environment and Resource Management’s (DERM) most recent “Guidelines for Flora Assessment in North Queensland” and “Recommended Fauna Survey Methodology for Environmental Impact Assessments”. Targeted surveys for known SOCS were conducted by transects, meander searches, incidental sightings, active trapping and habitat analysis. Finally, an analysis of the potential impacts of the proposed expansion was undertaken and recommendations for mitigation measures provided.

PLACE DESIGN GROUP


1.4 Timing Field assessments were conducted during the late wet season (14 – 20 March 2012) to capture the highest account of seasonal variations within the herb and forbs populations inhabiting the Study Area as well as seasonal migratory variance in fauna communities. Due to equipment failure, the bat survey was conducted at a later date (3 – 4 April 2012). The area had been receiving good rainfalls and the weather was wet and windy during the survey period.

SELWYN HEMATITES NO 1



LADY ELLA

COBALT BLOOM NO 1

MT DORE EXTENDED NO 2

STUART







MARILYN 1

VICTORIA

NEW HOPE

MT COBALT NO 1

MT ELLIOT

FIGURE 1: REGIONAL CONTEXT AND LOCALITYDATE: 22/06/2012

PROJECT NO: ICM08

ISSUE: A

SCALE: 1:15,000 @ A3MT DORE EXPANSION

PLACE Design Group Pty Ltd

Level 1, 282 Wickham Street

Fortitude Valley, Qld 4006 AUSTRALIA

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This mapping document utilizes geographic information and digital data resources under agreement with the following suppliers: The State of Queensland (DERM); Google Earth pro (image dated:)

0 1 2 3 4 50.5Kilometers F

Mt Dore Subject Site

LegendSubject Site

MLA-Ivanhoe_Swann-LuckyLuke




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FIGURE 2: STUDY AREADATE: 22/06/2012

PROJECT NO: ICM06

ISSUE: A


Final Pit South

South Waste Dump

Leaching Facilities

North Waste Dump

Evaporation and Process Ponds

HG Stockpile

LG Stockpile

Camp

Process Plant

Final Pit North

1 cm equals 200 m

This mapping document utilizes geographic information and digital data resources under agreement with the following suppliers: Nearmaps (image dated:26-04-2010)

0 500 1,000 1,500 2,000 2,500250Meters F

Legend

Study Area

Expansion Area

PLACE DESIGN GROUP


2.0 REGIONAL SETTING

2.1 General The Study Area is located to the south of the Selwyn Ranges, approximately 108 kms south of Cloncurry, in north-western Queensland. FIGURE 1 illustrates the Study Area’s position within the region, with FIGURE 2 outlining the specific attributes of the Study Area and its immediate surrounds. The Study Area encompasses approximately 1,600 ha comprising of generally flat to gently undulating colluvial plains, lateritic caps, mesozoic plains and deep impervious bed rock associated with siltstone and mudstone. Historically the Study Area and surrounding landscape have been subject to disturbance from agricultural pursuits, and more recently by vehicular access and current mining activities which have facilitated exclusion of cattle. Consequently the majority of the Study Area can be considered to have been subjected to physical disturbance and inappropriate fire regimes for the vegetation types present.

2.2 Climate The Study Area falls within a semi-arid, monsoonal climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Although summer rainfall is unpredictable and droughts are common most of the regions rainfall occurs in the summer months between November and March. The region has experienced above average rainfall since 2009, with significant rainfall occurring as a result of cyclonic activity (APPENDIX A). The two nearest Bureau of Meteorology weather stations are situated at Cloncurry airport some 108 km to the north of the Study Area and Boulia Airport some 155 km to the south west. Cloncurry is strongly influenced by weather patterns affecting the Gulf Country, however the Selwyn Ranges, a significant regional geological feature which lies between the Mount Dore ML and Cloncurry, is likely to create a discernible difference in rainfall patterns. Boulia is on the edge of the arid zone and so rainfall is less than that experienced in the Study Area. Analysis of both sets of data is therefore useful for discerning longer term patterns within the region. Weather data has been collected at Cloncurry Airport since 1978. Average annual rainfall for Cloncurry is 541mm, with the wettest period being December to March when 85% of the long term average rainfall is experienced. During the period 2008-2011 the average annual rainfall was exceeded three times: 690mm in 2011, 721mm in 2010 and 740mm in 2009. 2008 was an exceedingly dry year with only 117 mm recorded. For the period January to March 2012, 412 mm has been recorded, exceeding the average total rainfall for the period by 18%. Weather data has been collected at Boulia since 1886. Average annual rainfall for Boulia is 266 mm, with the wettest period being December to March when 63% of the long term average rainfall is experienced. During the period 2008-2011 the average annual rainfall was exceeded three times: 407mm in 2011 (which is 1.5 times the average), 363mm in 2010 and 273mm in 2009. For the period January to March 2012, 160.4mm (145mm in March alone) has been recorded, exceeding the average total rainfall for the period by 12%.

2.3 Bioregionalisation The Study Area is located within the southern portion of the Mount Isa Inlier Subregion (subregion 3) of the Northwest Highlands (NWH) Bioregion (Sattler and Williams, 1999) (FIGURE 3).




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FIGURE 3: BIOREGIONS OF THE STUDY AREA

DATE: 22/06/2012

PROJECT NO: ICM08

ISSUE: A


HOUDINI

6 MILE

OSBORNE

KULTHOR

LUCKY LUKE

SELWYN HEMATITES NO 1SELWYN HEMATITES NO 3


LADY ELLA

SWAN NO 3SWAN NO 2

SWAN NO 4SWAN NO 5

COBALT BLOOM NO 1STUART


VICTORIA

F

0 5 10 15 20 25km

KEYMt Dore Study Areaml selectionIvanhoe Cloncurry Mine LeasesHaul Road

Qld Biosubregions 250KBiosubregions

1.3 Mt Isa Inlier2.8 Donors Plateau4.2 South Western Downs4.3 Kynuna Plateau

North WestHighlandsMitchellGrass Downs

MitchellGrass Downs

GulfPlains

PLACE DESIGN GROUP


The Mount Isa Inlier subregion is by far the largest province. It contains almost all the heavily folded sediments of the bioregion. Small areas of alluvium occur throughout. There are small areas of Mesozoic sediments of both the Carpentaria and Eromanga Basis capping some hills. There are also small outliers of Thorntonia province along its western margins. The province drains northward into the Gulf of Carpentaria, via the Leichhardt and Cloncurry Rivers, and southwards into Lake Eyre, via tributaries of Georgina Creek and the Hamilton River. (Sattler and Williams, 1999) The Study Area is situated in the southern extremity of NWH and is proximately located to the north and east of the Mitchell Grass Downs bioregion (approximately 25 kms from the defined Bioregional boundary). This portion of the greater region drains to the south with the closest major river being the Mort River a large tributary of the Burke River. The Mount Isa Inlier province includes a wide range of geologies and landforms, and consequently a diversity of REs. Like most of the bioregion detailed vegetation data is sparse, and further regional ecosystems are likely to be defined. The pre-Cambrian ranges that dominate the province carry low open woodlands of snappy gum (Eucalyptus leucophloia) on siliceous rocks (REs 1.11.2 and 1.12.1), and Cloncurry box (E. leucophylla) on more basic geologies (RE 1.11.3). Deeper soils on gently undulating valley floors between these ranges carry silver-leaved box (Eucalyptus pruinosa) (RE1.11.4) or Cloncurry box (E. leucophylla) (RE 1.5.4). An unusual and restricted ecosystem is the low woodland of Eucalyptus melanophloia subsp. dajarra that occurs on the Sybella granites south-west of Mount Isa (RE 1.12.2). (Sattler and Williams, 1999)

2.4 Land Zones With reference to digitally available geological map sheets produced at a scale of 1:250,000, three main geological types were identified as possibly occurring within the Study Area with one type situated at the south-eastern edge (TABLE 1 and FIGURE 4).

TABLE 1: GEOLOGICAL DESCRIPTIONS (RELATING TO THE 1:250,000

MAP SHEETS)

Geological Code

Description Era/Period Equivalent Landzone

Selwyn 7054 (July 08)

Cz Miscellaneous unconsolidated sediments; sand, silt, gravel: alluvial, colluvial and residual

Cainozoic

3

PLkr Kuridala Formation. Metamorphosed sedimentary rock; schist, meta-arenite, slate, phyllite, calc-silicate rocks, metarhyolite

Proterozoic

11

PLgic Mount Cobalt Granite. Granitoid; Non-porphyritic biotite granite

Proterozoic

12

PLgid Mount Dore Granite. Granitoid; Non-porphyritic hornblende-biotite and biotite granite, minor aplite

Proterozoic

12

Source: Queensland Geological Mapping (polygonised vector) Data Regional 1:500,000 & Detailed 1:100 000 Sheet Areas © The State of Queensland (Department of Mines and Energy) July 2008 Landzones: as described by Sattler and Williams (1999) and Nelder et al, (2005)




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FIGURE 4: GEOLOGY OF THE STUDY AREA

DATE: 22/06/2012

PROJECT NO: ICM08

ISSUE: A


PLkr

PLkr

Cz

Cz

q

PLgidq

PLkr/s

dl

PLkr/p

PLkr/q

Cz

PLkr/q

PLgq

PLkr/c

PLkr/s

PLkr/s

q

q

dl

q

dl

Czq

PLkr/s

q

PLkr/g

PLgid

Cz

Cz

PLgid

PLkr/f

PLgid

Cz

PLkr/g

PLkr/g

dl

PLkr/g

PLkr/g

dl

PLgid

PLkr/g

PLgic

dl

PLkr/s

dl

PLkr/g

PLgid

dl

PLkr/s

dl

PLkr/g

PLgid

dl

dl

F

0 1 2 3 4 5km

KEYMt Dore Study Area

GeologyCzdlPLkr/sPLkr/gPLkrPLgidPLgis/gPLkr/pPLkr/cPLgisPLkr/fPLkr/chPLgicPLgcPLgePLg

PLACE DESIGN GROUP


2.5 Vegetation and Regional Ecosystems The central and northern portions of the Mount Dore ML group are currently subject to exploration mining activities, with the remainder of the area intersected with associated infrastructure and access trails. Although predominantly sparse, the existing undisturbed vegetation across the remainder of the area is in excellent condition. Four REs were indentified within the Mount Dore ML group during PDG’s previous surveys (PDG 2010). These included RE 1.3.7, RE 1.5.3, RE 1.11.2 and RE 1.12.1. All of these REs have a management status of No Concern at Present. RE 1.3.7 (red gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) woodland) has a biodiversity status of Endangered, with the remaining REs assigned a biodiversity status of No Concern at Present. None of the REs have any equivalency with threatened ecological communities listed under the Commonwealth’s Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act). No flora Species of Conservation Significance listed under either the Nature Conservation (Qld) Act 1992 (NC Act) or the EPBC Act were recorded within this area.

2.6 Fauna and Habitats Areas of the Mount Dore MLs are subject to current mining structures and exploration. The majority of these disturbance areas contain limited habitat and comprise of access roads, exploration areas and mining operation infrastructure. There are a number of linear rocky escarpments and smaller rocky knolls containing a range of crevices. A distinct lack of cave habitat was noted within these MLs. The higher escarpment areas provide quality shelter habitat for a range of small terrestrial fauna. These areas of higher rocky escarpments are surrounded by steeper sloping foot hills and incised gullies with dense groundcovers and sparse canopy vegetation on very rocky surfaces. These areas provide higher quality forage, nesting and movement habitat for a number of small terrestrial fauna and avifauna. A high number of smaller incised higher slope gullies aligned with drainage lines from the upper slopes are present. These areas have a very rocky surface on fine alluvial sands, and are dominated by dense clumps of Triodia molesta (pincushion spinifex) and Acacia chisholmii (Chisholm’s wattle). These areas provide high quality forage and shelter habitat for cryptic avifauna and small terrestrial mammals, as well as corridor connectivity from higher slopes to flatter plains. The higher slope gullies flow into a number of large riparian channels and narrow lower alluvial drainage lines that dissect the ML provide potential corridor connectivity throughout the landscape, as well as high quality forage, nesting and movement habitat for a range of mammal, reptile, amphibian and avifauna.

2.7 Previous Reports In 2010, PDG conducted an extensive dry season survey of Mt Dore 1 (15-23 September), mapping all of its Regional Ecosystems (RE) and habitat areas (PDG 2010). The remaining six MLs were rapidly investigated to define REs and habitat types present. A post-wet season survey of the same areas was undertaken in 2011 (20-24 January) (PDG 2011b). The results of these earlier surveys have been incorporated to support the findings of this report. The following PDG reports detailing surveys undertaken within the Data Search Area were consulted to form a composite list of values and habitat / vegetation community information:

• PDG (2010), ‘Ivanhoe Cloncurry Mine Leases and Associated Infrastructure, Baseline Ecological Report’. Prepared by PLACE Design Group for Ivanhoe Cloncurry Mines Pty Ltd.

• PDG (2011a), ‘Osborne Mine Lease, Baseline Ecological Assessment’. Prepared by PLACE Design Group for Ivanhoe Cloncurry Mines Pty Ltd.

PLACE DESIGN GROUP


• PDG (2011b), ‘Ivanhoe Cloncurry Mine Leases and Associated Infrastructure, Post wet-season Survey’. Prepared by PLACE Design Group for Ivanhoe Cloncurry Mines Pty Ltd.

From these earlier reports the following SOCS were anticipated to be identified during the current survey:

• Migratory Merops ornatus (Rainbow bee-eater) (EPBC Act) • Near Threatened Falco hypoleucos (Grey falcon) (NC Act) • Near Threatened Amytornis striatus (Striated grasswren) (NC Act)

No flora SOCS were identified during earlier surveys. It is highly likely that the full suite of pest species found within the locality would persist within the Study Area. Smaller terrestrial mammal species not readily visible are likely to occur in higher densities in the disturbed mining operation areas.

PLACE DESIGN GROUP


3.0 ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY The study methodology has combined the use of on-ground data collected by previous site survey describing habitats, habitat features, vegetation communities and threatened species cross referenced with current existing information sourced from databases to facilitate an assessment of ecological values and impacts.

3.1 Desktop Review A desktop review of both Commonwealth and State conservation databases and ecological reports for the area was performed to provide a composite list of Species Of Conservation Significance (SOCS) and ecological communities of conservation significance that have been recorded or potentially occur within the Study Area and the broader locality. The possible presence and likely distribution of site values were sourced from the following statutory databases and mappings and published references listed below:

• Commonwealth o Protected Matters Search Tool for listed species under the

Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act)

• State o Wildlife Online database for listed species under the Nature

Conservation Act 1992 o Lists of Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) (Qld) Act

2002 (LPA) and Weeds of National Significance (WONS) o Vegetation Management (Qld) Act 1999 (VM Act) Regional Ecosystem

and Remnant Mapping version 6.1 o VM Act Essential Habitat Mapping version 6.1 o VM Act Regrowth Vegetation Map version 2.1 o VM Act Watercourse Stream Order Mapping version 2.1 o Queensland Museum’s fauna database o Queensland Herbarium’s HERBRECS Database o Referrable Wetland Mapping

• Local o Local (Cloncurry Shire) Pest Management Plans (PMPs)

• Other o Northwest Highlands bioregion description and rare and threatened

flora list (Table 1.7, Sattler and Williams, 1999) o Northwest Highlands bioregion description and rare and threatened

fauna list (Table 1.6, Sattler and Williams, 1999) o Birds Australia’s New Atlas database

With respect to the databases, data was collected for the area comprising of a 150 kilometre radius around the Study Area (Data Search Area: Latitude: 21.747, Longitude: 140.415). With respect to accuracy considerations, the Queensland Museum and Queensland Herbarium databases are records of specimens actually lodged and formally identified by staff of those organisations. A high degree of reliability can therefore be placed on these records. Whist RE descriptions for each of the bioregions present within the Data Search Area are well described and understood, Regional Ecosystem mapping is incomplete.

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The WildNet and Birds Australia New Atlas databases are based on records of species from a wide variety of observers and although the records are reasonably accurate in terms of spatial location not all records have been verified. The EPBC Online Protected Matters Search Tool, whilst based on some species records, relies on modelling of suitable habitats and is largely predictive. In relation to fauna, the nomenclature in use across the above databases is not uniform and may lead to erroneous interpretation of a species presence/absence.

3.2 Field and Assessment Work

3.2.1 General Fieldwork was carried out from 16 to 21 March 2012. Rain had fallen in the preceding weeks. Light rain fell on 20 March. Good coverage of the mining lease was possible due to the number of vehicle access tracks.

3.2.2 Flora Annual plants were common and most perennial woody and herbaceous plants were flowering. All mapped REs and Vegetation Communities (VCs) were visited on foot. The methodology for the survey included a review of existing information on flora and vegetation communities (regional ecosystems) of the region, as outlined within SECTION 3.1, and field surveys as described below. Recent amendments to DERM’s draft assessment guidelines (Wannan 2011) were employed. DERM’s guidelines and a detailed synopsis of the employed methodologies are been provided within APPENDIX C and technical results outlined in APPENDIX D. Regional Ecosystems (and major vegetation communities recognised by the Queensland Herbarium (2011)) within the Study Area were identified through satellite imagery interpretation and field investigation of observed vegetation and landform patterns utilising GIS mapping tools at a scale of around 1:15000. Plant communities were surveyed using methods in line with those outlined by Neldner et al. (2005).

3.2.3 Fauna Habitat assessments and fauna field surveys were conducted using a variety of direct and indirect survey techniques. Methods used were:

• Elliot A and B Trapping; • Mawbrey trapping; • Pitfall trapping; • Point and area counts for birds and herpetiles; • Call playback for nocturnal bird species; • Collection of scats and bone fragments; • Analysis of tracks and scratches; • Spotlighting; • Motion cameras; and • Anabat call detection.

The purpose of these surveys were to document as many of the fauna species (mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians) that occur on the site as possible, as well as identify and note any incidental observation of fauna habitat, and evidence of fauna presence (e.g. scat collection, trunk scratching). Incidental observations of species outside of the Study Area were recorded if habitats were similar. Sampling efforts were conducted utilising (but not limited to) the most recent amendments of the “Recommended Fauna Survey Methodology for Environmental

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Impact Assessments” (DERM August 2009). Full details of the sampling and survey methodology, and noted limitations are outlined in APPENDIX C2. A detailed breakdown of daily weather conditions for February/March 2012 is provided in APPENDIX A. It should be noted that timing, weather conditions and the survey techniques employed are considered sufficient to detect the widest suite of fauna species likely to inhabit the Study Area. Habitats assessments were qualified based on the presence of the following habitat features:

• Vegetation cover and structure; • Size and range of arboreal and terrestrial hollows; • Rocky outcrops, overhangs & crevices; • Freestanding water bodies, ephemeral drainage or seepage areas; • Disturbances including weed incursion, clearing and/or inappropriate fire

regimes;

• Connectivity to offsite habitats; and • Surrounding habitats.

The quality of habitat persisting within the Study Area was assessed based on criteria outlined within TABLE 2.

TABLE 2: HABITAT QUALITY ASSESSMENT

Rating Description of Habitat

Low

Many fauna habitat elements in low quality areas have been removed or altered such as mature, hollow bearing trees, fallen timber and deep leaf litter. For terrestrial habitats remnants are often small in size, support substantial weed infestations and are poorly connected to other areas of remnant vegetation. For aquatic habitats these may be waterways that have been de-snagged and riparian vegetation removed, or constructed drains.

Moderate

Some habitat components are present but others are lacking. For terrestrial habitats an example is remnant may have a reasonably intact understorey but lack fallen timber and hollow bearing trees. Linkages with other remnant habitats in the landscape may be lacking or somewhat tenuous. For aquatic habitats these may be semi-natural streams (including artificial channels and wetlands) with varying degrees of overhanging and in-stream vegetation with some snags and connectivity.

High

Most habitat components are present. For terrestrial habitats, habitats with old-growth trees, fallen timber, lack of weeds, the remnant is large enough to support forest dependant species and is well connected or contiguous with other areas of native vegetation. Habitat features such as rocky outcrops, steep jumps and areas supporting caves provide significant habitat features for a great many fauna species persisting within arid areas. For aquatic habitats these are natural water bodies (or water bodies designed along natural ecological functioning principles) with a high degree of in-stream and riparian features and good connectivity.

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4.0 DESKTOP ASSESSMENT

4.1 Background Data Review The primary aim of the survey efforts was to assess the potential impacts of the proposed expansion project on flora and fauna that are confirmed or likely to be present within the Study Area. Survey efforts targeted, but were not limited to, the potential presence of SOCS listed under relevant Commonwealth (EPBC Act) and Queensland (NC Act and NC (Wildlife) Regulation) legislation. Determining the suitability of the Study Area for SOCS provides an indication of the overall habitat values of the Study Area for a wider range of species. For this reason comparative assessments of the Study Area’s flora and fauna suite have been referenced to PDG (2010, 2011a, 2011b). A review of government data bases coupled with a review of previous reports prepared for sites within the locality was conducted. The review of existing literature encompassed a radius of approximately 100kms (PDG 2010, 2011a and 2011b) around the Study Area with government searches being buffered to 150kms to comply with DERM’s latest ecological assessment guidelines - “Guidelines for Flora Assessment in North Queensland”. It was noted that several records of flora and fauna SOCS protected under both the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) and the Nature Conservation Act 1992 (NC Act). The likelihood of these species occurring within the Study Area is defined in the following sections along with their broad habitat requirements. It should be noted that since production of earlier reports by PDG, NC Act and EPBC Act species listings have been revised and as a result a number of previously listed SOCS are no longer considered to be of concern.

4.2 Plants and Vegetation Communities

4.2.1 Commonwealth Matters Results of the Commonwealth’s EPBC Act Protected Matters database search (APPENDIX B.1) identified that one Threatened Ecological Community: The Community of Native Species Dependent on Natural Discharge of Groundwater from the Great Artesian Basin. It should be noted that these Ecological Communities are not associated with the geological features of the Study Area, however are more likely to occur in areas to the west and south where there is extensive low lying areas that are subject to natural discharge of groundwater from the Great Artesian Basin. Database searches have picked up the potential occurrence of these Ecological Communities from surrounding areas within this bioregion. The Commonwealth’s EPBC Act Protected Matters database (APPENDIX B.1) identified no flora SOCS that have known geographic ranges/distributions that overly of the Study Area.

4.2.2 State Matters – Species of Conservation Significance The VM Act mapping of Regional Ecosystems and Remnant Vegetation currently does not extend over the Study Area. Wildnet database searches for threatened species (APPENDIX B.2) identified the presence of one flora SOCS listed under the NC Act that have been recorded from within a 150 km radius of the Study Area (TABLE 4).

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4.2.3 State Matters – Weed and Pest Species England (2008) lists weed species in the Cloncurry shire recognised by the Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002 (LP Act) as well as Weeds of National Significance (WONS). These species are given in TABLE 3.

TABLE 3: LISTED WEED SPECIES OF CLONCURRY SHIRE

Scientific Name Common Name Priority for Control

WONS listing

LP Act listing

Acacia nilotica prickly Acacia high WONS Class 2

Azadirachta indica neem low – –

Calotropis gigantea and C. procera

calotrope low – –

Cryptostegia grandiflora rubber vine medium WONS Class 2

Eichhornia crassipes water Hyacinth very high – Class 2

Hybrid Prosopis sp. and P. pallida

mesquite high WONS Class 2

Jatropha gossypiifolia bellyache bush high – Class 1

Lantana camara Lantana low WONS Class 3

Leucaena leucocephala Leucaena low – –

Mimosa pigra giant sensitive plant very high WONS Class 1

Parkinsonia aculeata Parkinsonia high WONS Class 2

Parthenium hysterophorus

Parthenium high WONS Class 2

Ricinus communis castor oil bush low – –

Salvinia molesta Salvinia very high WONS Class 2

Senna alata candle bush low – –

Sporobolus pyramidalis and S. natalensis

giant rats tail grasses very high – Class 2

Thevetia peruviana Captain Cook tree low – Class 3

Thunbergia annua, T. fragrans and T. laurifolia

Thunbergia low – Class 1

Xanthium strumarium and X. pungens

Noogoora bur low – –

Ziziphus mauritiana chinese apple medium – Class 2

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TABLE 4: FLORA SPECIES OF CONSERVATION SIGNIFICANCE WITHIN THE REGION

Family Scientific Name Conservation Status1

Preferred Habitat4

EPBC Act2

NC Act3

MIMOSACEAE Acacia peuce V Alluvial plains, gully drainage lines, slope or hills Goodwood (10km south of Bouilea); Boulia; Montague Downs (approximately 120km southwest of the Study Area).

STERCULIACEAE Brachychiton collinus Type A Fire refugia, typically rocky hilltops.

MYOPORACEAE Eremophila tetraptera V Slopes and in drainage hollows. Usually on clay soils but also recorded on sandy gravel. Known from the Diamantina River system in south-west Queensland and in the vicinity of Narcissus, Munduran, Cork and Old Cork Homesteads, about 130 km south-west of Winton.

ERIOCAULACEAE Eriocaulon carsonii E Found in aquatic environments associated with the Great Artesian Basin.

GOODENIACEAE Goodenia angustifolia NT No data. All Goodenia species found were identified in the field or collected for later ID.

CONVOLVULACEAE Ipomoea antonschmidii NT No data. All Ipomoea species found were identified in the field or collected for later ID.

AMARANTHACEAE Ptilotus maconochiei NT No data. All Ptilotus species found were identified in the field or collected for later ID.

AMARANTHACEAE Ptilotus pseudo-helipteroides

NT No data. All Ptilotus species found were identified in the field or collected for later ID.

SCROPHULARIACEAE Rhamphicarpa australiensis

NT Marshy areas, typically perennial soaks or discharge areas near the bases of hills and slopes.

CHENOPODIACEAE Sclerolaena walkeri V Plains, inland sand dunes Diamatina-Mackunda creek channels (Approximately 100km to the southeast of the Study Area)

Notes

1. Source: (*) Wildnet, HERBRECs and Matters of NES Database

2. Endangered (E), Vulnerable (V); according to the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Act 1999

3. Endangered (E), Vulnerable (V), Near Threatened (NT); according to the Nature Conservation (Wildlife) Regulation 2006 (Qld)

4. Habitat information sourced from PDG (2010). NC Act Listing sourced from the Nature Conservation (Wildlife) Regulation 2006. EPBC Act listings sourced from Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities, 2009.

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4.3 Fauna

4.3.1 Commonwealth Matters The search results of the Commonwealth’s EPBC Act Protected Matters database (APPENDIX B.1) identified five SOCS which have known geographic ranges/distributions that may overly the Study Area, including one migratory bird species. A further eight migratory bird species and one listed marine reptile species have been identified within this database search (TABLE 5).

4.3.2 State Matters Wildnet database searches (APPENDIX B.2) identified the presence of three state listed SOCS (NC Act) that have been recorded from within a 150 km radius of the Study Area. These include two additional species not listed under the EPBC Act (TABLE 5). Only the Pezoporus occidentalis (Night parrot) was identified in both the EPBC Act and NC Act threatened species search results. No Essential Habitat mapping (from DERM’s Regional Ecosystem and Remnant Mapping version 6.1) exists which could have been analysed to identify the presence of habitat for state threatened species within or nearby the site.

4.3.3 Predictive Analysis An assessment of habitat suitability was prepared for SOCS that may occur in the locality. The primary focus of the assessment was to identify significant fauna issues in the context of potential disturbance to the Study Area and of sites in surrounding environments. Prior to field assessment an analysis of each species range, habitat and dispersal requirements, habits and limiting resource requirements were cross referenced against known habitats within the surrounding environments that were identified by PDG (2010, 2011a). On the basis of these results a predictive analysis of species likely to be present was undertaken (confirmed presence, likely presence, possible presence, unlikely presence) targeted field survey methodologies were developed. An analysis for all SOCS is provided in TABLE 5; however those species that are considered unlikely to occur within the Study Area have not been discussed further beyond this section of the report.

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TABLE 5: FAUNA SPECIES OF CONSERVATION SIGNIFICANCE WITHIN THE REGION

Scientific Name

Common Name

Conservation Status

Known Distribution / Preferred Habitat / Likelihood of occurrence3

EPBC Act

1

NC Act

2

Birds

Apus pacificus Fork-tailed swift M The Fork-tailed Swift is almost exclusively aerial. They are widespread west of the Great Divide, and are commonly found west of the line joining Chinchilla and Hughenden. They are found to the west between Richmond and Winton, Longreach, Gowan Range, Maraila National Park and Dirranbandi. They are rarely found further west to Windorah and Thargomindah.

They mostly occur over dry or open habitats, including riparian woodland and tea-tree swamps, low scrub, heathland or saltmarsh. They are also found at treeless grassland and sandplains covered with spinifex, open farmland and inland and coastal sand-dunes.

The Fork-tailed Swift leaves its breeding grounds in Siberia from August–September and usually arrives in Australia around October; it leaves southern Australia from mid-April and departs via north-east Queensland, with sightings common from February–March and most birds having departed by May.

Whilst the Study Area offers suitable habitat and the survey timeframes fits their migration patterns, the Study Area falls outside of their normal distribution range. Therefore there is only a possibility that this species will be found within the Study Area.

Ardea ibis Cattle egret M, W The Cattle Egret occurs in tropical and temperate grasslands, wooded lands and terrestrial wetlands. It has occasionally been seen in arid and semi-arid regions however this is extremely rare. It is commonly associated with the habitats of farm animals, particularly cattle. It uses predominately shallow, open and fresh wetlands including meadows and swamps with low emergent vegetation and abundant aquatic flora.

Given this species’ typical habitat it is unlikely that it will occur in the Study Area.

Ardea alba Great egret M, W The Eastern Great Egret has been reported in a wide range of wetland habitats (for example inland and coastal, freshwater and saline, permanent and ephemeral, open and vegetated, large and small, natural and artificial).

Given this species’ typical habitat it is unlikely that it will occur in the Study Area.

Charadrius veredus

Oriental plover W The Oriental Plover is a non-breeding visitor to Australia, where the species occurs in both coastal and inland areas, mostly in northern Australia. Most records are along the north-western coast, between Exmouth Gulf and Derby in Western Australia. The species also often occurs further inland on the 'blacksoil' plains of northern Western Australia, the Northern Territory and north-western Queensland ('the Gulf Country').

Immediately after arriving in non-breeding grounds in northern Australia, Oriental Plovers spend a few weeks in coastal habitats such as estuarine mudflats and sandbanks, on sandy or rocky ocean beaches or nearby reefs, or in near-coastal grasslands, before dispersing further inland. Thereafter they usually inhabit flat, open, semi-arid or arid grasslands, where the grass is short and sparse, and interspersed with hard, bare ground, such as claypans, dry paddocks, playing fields, lawns and cattle camps.

The Study Area occupies an area further south than this species’ normal distribution range although suitable habitat may be present. There are no records of this species in the Wildlife Online database. It is therefore unlikely that this species occurs in the Study Area.

Ephippiorhynchus asiaticus

Black-necked stork

NT This species can be found along north and east coasts of Australia, sometimes as far south as Sydney, but less common in southern part of its range. It frequents lakes, swamps, freshwater pool and mangroves. They are freshwater foragers where their main food is fish but they eat reptiles, frogs, crabs, rodents and carrion (Schodde and Tideman 1993).

There are records of this species in the locality (Barrett et al. 2003; Schodde and Tideman 1993) probably as a result of higher quality

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Scientific Name

Common Name

Conservation Status


EPBC Act

1

NC Act

2

habitat present in the surrounding environments (e.g. Mort River).

As there are no suitable freshwater pools within the Study Area it is therefore considered unlikely that this species would utilise the Study Area.

Falco hypoleucos Grey falcon NT Timbered plains of the dry interior are the home of this species. They can be found hunting along eucalypt-lined river channels (Schodde and Tideman 1993).

Previously confirmed in surrounding areas (PDG 2011b).

The Study Area could be used for foraging (as a component of a much larger home range), although the riparian habitats associated with the Mort River further south of the Study Area are more likely to be productive and provide the better nesting areas given the tall vegetation and prey abundance.

It is possible that this species would utilise the Study Area however it would not form a critical or significant component of its habitat.

Glareola maldivarum

Oriental pratincole W Within Australia the Oriental Pratincole is widespread in northern areas, especially along the coasts of the Pilbara Region and the Kimberley Division in Western Australia, the Top End of the Northern Territory, and parts of the Gulf of Carpentaria. It is also widespread but scattered inland, mostly north of 20° S.

In non-breeding grounds in Australia, the Oriental Pratincole usually inhabits open plains, floodplains or short grassland (including farmland or airstrips), often with extensive bare areas.

The Study Area occupies an area further south than this species’ normal distribution range although suitable habitat may be present. It is therefore possible that this species occurs in the Study Area.

Haliaeetus leucogaster

White-bellied Sea-Eagle

T The White-bellied Sea-Eagle is distributed along the coastline (including offshore islands) of mainland Australia and Tasmania. It also extends inland along some of the larger waterways, especially in eastern Australia. The inland limits of the species are most restricted in south-central and south-western Australia, where it is confined to a narrow band along the coast.

The habitats occupied by the sea-eagle are characterised by the presence of large areas of open water (larger rivers, swamps, lakes, the sea). Terrestrial habitats include coastal dunes, tidal flats, grassland, heathland, woodland, forest (including rainforest) and even urban areas.

It is unlikely that this species will occur in the Study Area due to the lack of suitable habitat and the extended range from its normal distribution.

Melithreptus gularis

Black-chinned honeyeater

NT This species inhabits open eucalypt woodland and fringing forest and desert scrub, mainly along western slopes of the Great Dividing Range and across the mid-north where they range into spinifex scrubs. Their large feeding home-ranges, which they search for insects, nectar and honeydew, makes this species locally nomadic. (Schodde and Tideman 1993)

Previously confirmed in surrounding areas (PDG 2011b).

The Study Area provides suitable habitat and given this species’ large home range, it is possible that it may be encountered within the Study Area however the Study Area would not constitute critical or significant habitat.

Merops ornatus Rainbow bee-eater

T The Rainbow Bee-eater is distributed across much of mainland Australia. It occurs mainly in open forests and woodlands, shrublands, and in various cleared or semi-cleared habitats, including farmland and areas of human habitation.

Given the wide ranging habitats frequented by this species and its extended distribution range, it is highly likely that this species occurs within the Study Area.

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Scientific Name

Common Name

Conservation Status


EPBC Act

1

NC Act

2

Pezoporus occidentalis

Night parrot E, T E The distribution of the Night Parrot is very poorly understood. There are a small number of confirmed and well-regarded records from arid and semi-arid regions of Queensland. The most recent records of this species occur in the Diamantina National Park in 2006.

The Night Parrot inhabits arid and semi-arid areas that are characterised by having dense, low vegetation. Based on accepted records, the habitat of the Night Parrot consists of Triodia grasslands in stony or sandy environments, and of samphire and chenopod shrublands, on floodplains and claypans, and on the margins of saltlakes, creeks or other sources of water.

This species was not reported in the Wildlife Online database search.

The Study Area supports Spinifex however it is considered that the habitat is depauparate for this species’ requirements. The lack of sightings within the surrounding area would also suggest that it is unlikely this species occurs in the Study Area.

Rostratula australis

Australian painted snipe

V, W V The Australian Painted Snipe has been recorded at wetlands in all states of Australia. It is most common in eastern Australia, where it has been recorded at scattered locations throughout much of Queensland, NSW, Victoria and south-eastern South Australia.

The Australian Painted Snipe generally inhabits shallow terrestrial freshwater (occasionally brackish) wetlands, including temporary and permanent lakes, swamps and claypans.


This species is unlikely to occur within the Study Area due to the lack of suitable habitat.

Mammals

Macrotis lagotis Greater Bilby V E Before European settlement the Greater Bilby was found on over 70% of the Australian mainland; the species now only occurs in less than 20% of its former range. Wild Bilby populations are now restricted predominantly to the Tanami Desert, Northern Territory, the Great Sandy and Gibson Deserts, Western Australia, and an outlying population between Boulia and Birdsville in south-west Queensland.

Extant population of the Greater Bilby occur in a variety of habitats, usually on landforms with level to low slope topography and light to medium soils. It occupies three major vegetation types; open tussock grassland on uplands and hills, mulga woodland/shrubland growing on ridges and rises, and hummock grassland in plains and alluvial areas.


The Study Area is situated north-west of the known population of this species. It is unlikely that this species would occur within the Study Area.

Petrogale purpureicollis

Purple-necked rock-wallaby

V The preferred habitat of this medium-sized rock-wallaby is rocky outcrops, boulder piles, cliffs and ogres in limestone, sandstone and quartzite formations associated with dry eucalypt and acacia woodlands, and Spinifex grasslands.

The Wildlife Online database search reported this species within the eastern section of the Database Search Area. This would correlate with the rocky environment to the east of the Study Area (~25 km) which would provide shelter and foraging habitat.

Previous surveys (PDG 2011b) have reported this species in steeper terrain and mine waste rock dumps situated within the Selwyn Ranges and Starra Range (north).

It is unlikely that these wallabies would utilise the Study Area due to its distance from suitable habitat.

Sminthopsis douglasi

Julia Creek Dunnart

E E Scattered records of this species occur in the area surrounding the township of Julia Creek 200 km to the north east, Bladensberg National Park (NP) some 280 km to the south east and Moorrinya National Park some 480 km to the east north east of the Study Area.

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Scientific Name

Common Name

Conservation Status


EPBC Act

1

NC Act

2

The Bladensberg NP and Moorrinya NP populations are the subject of a DERM recovery program and McKinlay Shire Council are working with DERM to manage an area of habitat around Julia Creek Aerodrome.

Prior to 1992 Sminthopsis douglasi (Julia Creek dunnart) was known only from four specimens collected in a limited area between Richmond and Julia Creek. Surveys conducted during the 1990s extended the species geographic range considerably within both the Mitchell Grass Downs and Desert Uplands Bioregions, although sightings were patchy and abundances low. The number of known localities increased from three to eleven using indirect survey methods.

Little is known about the habitat requirements of the Julia Creek Dunnart, however preferred habitats are characterised by predominately grass-covered cracking clay soils. Habitat selection appears to be based on the density of holes and cracks in the soil, rather than vegetation cover which is dependent on season and unpredictable rainfall events and not a reliable source of shelter.

Source: DERM 2011a.

It is not expected that the Study Area supports areas of cracking clay therefore no suitable habitat would be available for this species. It is therefore considered unlikely that this species would occur within the Study Area.

Sharks

Pristis microdon Freshwater Sawfish

V The Freshwater Sawfish may potentially occur in all large rivers of northern Australia from the Fitzroy River, Western Australia, to the western side of Cape York Peninsula, Queensland. It is mainly confined to the main channels of large rivers.

The preferred habitat of this species is mud bottoms of river embayments and estuaries, but they are also found well upstream. They are not found near riparian vegetation. They are usually found in turbid channels of large rivers over soft mud bottoms more than 1 m deep, but they will move into shallow waters when travelling upstream or while hunting prey.

In northern Australia, this species appears to be confined to freshwater drainages and the upper reaches of estuaries, occasionally being found as far as 400 km from the sea.

No suitable habitat is present within the Study Area for this species therefore is unlikely to occur.

Notes

1. (E) Endangered, (V) Vulnerable, migratory bird species: (T) terrestrial, (W) wetland, (M) marine; according to the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Act 1999

2. (E) Endangered, (V) Vulnerable, (NT) Near Threatened; according to the Nature Conservation (Wildlife) Regulation 2006 (Qld)

3. All habitat and distribution information was extracted from the EPBC Act Species Profile and Threat Database except where noted.

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5.0 FLORA FIELD ASSESSMENT Around 150 quaternary level and 25 tertiary level (woody plant species list; heights, canopy cover values and names of dominant plants in each stratum noted; landform and soil notes made) site observations were made over the Study Area. Thirteen separate plant communities were identified and mapped using GIS (APPENDIX D.2 and FIGURE 5). Each was visited, described and searched for SOCS.

5.1 Land Zones The complex nature of the geology in the study area makes RE mapping difficult. Meta-sedimentary rocks of different types are layered and folded so that associated soil and vegetation changes occur over a very small scale. As a result, photo and satellite image patterns cannot always be reliably associated with vegetation communities. Although map units were checked through on-ground survey, mapping may not be entirely accurate in areas that were not well traversed. Definitions for Land zones encountered in the survey area, sourced from the Queensland Herbarium (2011), are given in TABLE 6 along with on-ground evidence used to make Land zone determination for mapped Plant Communities. Whereas regional geological mapping identified three dominant Land zones, site scale assessment, based on vegetation analysis has identified four Land zones as being present.

5.2 Plant Species List A full species list with each species marked according to the vegetation community or communities in which it occurs is given as APPENDIX D.1. Thirty-one collected specimens were unable to be identified following fieldwork. These were assigned collection codes and sent to the Queensland Herbarium for identification (APPENDIX D.3). Of the 170 species recorded on site, none have a conservation status under the NC Act or the EPBC Act.

5.3 Regional Ecosystems All mapped Plant Communities described in APPENDIX D.2 have been ascribed RE codes to which they most closely accord with under the REDD Database. Plant communities however may not specifically align with RE descriptions from this database, however have been assigned the most appropriate RE code with a unique lettering sequence following this code. The Vegetation Management and Other Legislation Act (Qld) 2009 (VMOL Act) status and the Biodiversity status of each are given below in TABLE 7. Thirteen (TABLE 7) Regional Ecosystems have been identified in the Study Area and mapped (FIGURE 5). All have a management status of Least Concern, the lowest conservation significance levels (greater than 30% of the pre-settlement RE remains). Representative photographs of each RE are provided in PHOTOPLATE 1. Riparian areas present throughout the Study Area are aligned with RE 1.3.7 “River red gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) woodland on channels and levees (south)”. This RE coincides with the main riparian feature of the Study Area, starting in the north-western corner of the Study Area and traversing in a south-easterly direction to exit just south of the airstrip. This RE has a biodiversity status of Endangered. RE 1.3.6x1a has been mapped as two tributaries to the main riparian corridor as well as along a channel in the southern portion of the Study Area. This RE has a biodiversity status of Of Concern. RE 11.5.6 features prominently in the southern portions of the Study Area, as well as part of a mixed polygon with RE 11.5.8 on either side of the main riparian corridor. This RE also has a biodiversity status of Of Concern. All remaining REs have a biodiversity status of No Concern at Present which is the lowest significance level (greater than 30% of the pre-settlement RE remains).




T + 61 7 3852 3922

F + 61 7 3852 4766

FIGURE 5: VEGETATION COMMUNITIESOF THE STUDY AREA

DATE:27/07/2012

PROJECT NO: ICM08

ISSUE: A


!(!(

1.11.2a

1.12.1xa

1.11.2a

1.5.8/1.5.6

1.5.6

1.11.2e/1.11.2x2

1.11.2e

1.11.2e

1.11.2e

1.5.6

1.11.3b

1.12.1xc

1.5.6/1.5.8

1.11.2a/1.11.2e/1.11.2x2

non-remnant

1.11.2a/1.11.2x6

1.11.2e

1.12.1xb

1.5.6/1.5.8

1.5.6/1.5.8

1.11.2a/1.11.2x6

1.12.1xb

1.12.1xa

1.3.7/1.3.6a

1.11.2a/1.11.2e/1.11.2x2

1.11.2e/1.11.2x2

1.5.6

1.5.6/1.5.8

1.5.6

1.11.2e/1.11.2x2

1.5.6

1.5.6

1.12.1xa

1.11.2e/1.11.2x6

1.5.6

1.11.2a

1.5.6/1.5.8

non-remnant

1.11.2e

1.11.2e

1.12.1xa

non-remnant

1.12.1xb/1.12.1xa

1.11.2a

1.12.1xa

1.11.2a

1.3.6x1a

1.11.2a/1.11.2x2

1.11.2e/1.11.2x2

1.5.6/1.5.8

1.12.1xa

1.11.2a/1.11.2x2

1.3.6x1a

1.12.1xb

1.11.2a

1.12.1x4

1.12.1xa

1.5.61.3.6x1a

1.11.2a

1.11.2a/1.11.2x2

1.5.6

1.11.2a

1.12.1x41.12.1x4

1 cm equals 200 m

This mapping document utilizes geographic information and digital data resources under agreement with the following suppliers: The State of Queensland (DERM); Google Earth pro (image dated:)

0 500 1,000 1,500 2,000 2,500250Meters F

Legend

Study Area

Expansion Area

!( Brachychiton Collinus

RE Goupings

1.11.2

1.11.3

1.12.1

1.3.6

1.3.7/1.3.6

1.5.6

1.5.6/1.5.8

1.5.8/1.5.6

non-remnant

Brachychiton Collinus




T + 61 7 3852 3922

F + 61 7 3852 4766

PHOTO PLATESMT DORE EXPANSION

DATE: 29/06/2012

PROjECT NO: ICM08

DWG NO./ISSUE: A

SCALE: NTS

RE1.3.6x1a RE1.3.7 RE1.5.6

RE1.5.8 RE1.11.2a RE1.11.2e

RE1.11.2x2 RE1.11.2x6 RE1.11.3b




T + 61 7 3852 3922

F + 61 7 3852 4766

PHOTO PLATESMT DORE EXPANSION

DATE: 29/06/2012

PROjECT NO: ICM08

DWG NO./ISSUE: A

SCALE: NTS

RE1.12.1xb

RE1.12.1x2 RE1.12.1x4 RE1.12.1xa

PLACE DESIGN GROUP


TABLE 6: LANDZONE DESCRIPTIONS AND EVIDENCE TO SUPPORT LANDZONE DETERMINATION

Land Zone Code

Description DERM (2011) Evidence Used to Support Determination

3 Quaternary alluvial systems, including floodplains, alluvial plains, alluvial fans, terraces, levees, swamps, channels, closed depressions and fine textured palaeo-estuarine deposits. Also includes estuarine plains currently under fresh water influence, inland lakes and associated dune systems (lunettes). Excludes talus slopes, colluvial deposits and pediments.Includes a diverse range of soils, predominantly Vertosols and Sodosols, also with Hydrosols in higher rainfall areas.

Alluvial landforms (levees, floodplains, benches etc.) formed from unconsolidated material by active alluvial processes present. Coarse material at least partly rounded.

5 Extensive, uniform near level or gently undulating Cainozoic plains with sandy or loamy soils. Includes dissected remnants of these surfaces. Also includes plains with sandy or loamy soils of uncertain origin, and plateau remnants with deep soils usually overlying duricrust. Excludes Quaternary alluvial deposits (land zone 3), exposed duricrust (land zone 7), and soils derived from underlying bedrock (land zones 8 to 12). Soils are usually Tenosols and Kandosols, also minor deep sandy surfaced Sodosols and Chromosols. There may be a duricrust at depth.

Planar or near planar landforms present, formed on unconsolidated material transported short distances through slopewash. Coarse material angular.

11 Metamorphosed rocks, forming ranges, hills and lowlands. Primarily lower Permian and older sedimentary formations which are generally moderately to strongly deformed. Includes low- to high-grade and contact metamorphics such as phyllites, slates, gneisses of indeterminate origin and serpentinite, and interbedded volcanics. Soils are mainly shallow, gravelly Rudosols and Tenosols, with Sodosols and Chromosols on lower slopes and gently undulating areas. Soils are typically of low to moderate fertility.

Hills and lowlands on (implied) metamorphic rocks; closest appropriate designation and is based specifically on landform similarities.

12 Mesozoic to Proterozoic igneous rocks, forming ranges, hills and lowlands. Predominantly granitic rocks and intermediate to acid volcanics such as granites, granodiorites, andesites and rhyolites, as well as minor areas of associated interbedded sediments and basic intrusive rock types such as gabbros and dolerites. Excludes serpentinites (land zone 11) and younger igneous rocks (land zone 8). Soils are mainly Tenosols and Rudosols on steeper slopes with Chromosols and Sodosols on lower slopes and gently undulating areas. Soils are typically of low to moderate fertility.

Skeletal soil on crests and upper slopes of steep hills and plateaus of Palaeozoic biotite granite; Coarse sandy soil on granite rises.

PLACE DESIGN GROUP


TABLE 7: RE CODE, STATUS AND AREA OF MAPPED PLANT COMMUNITIES P

lan

t C

om

mu

nit

y

ID

Short Description from Field Observations RE Code Status RE Description3 Area

Mapped (ha)

Ma

na

gem

en

t S

tatu

s1

Bio

div

ers

ity

S

tatu

s2

1 Mixed woodland including Cloncurry box (Eucalyptus leucophylla), snappy gum (Eucalyptus leucophloia), desert bloodwood (Corymbia terminalis) and ghost gum (Corymbia aparrerinja) on stream banks, levees and floodplains.

1.3.6x1a Least Concern

Of Concern

Floodplain (other than floodplain wetlands). Eucalyptus leucophylla and/or E. pruinosa woodland often with Corymbia terminalis and Acacia cambagei with a sparse mixed shrub layer and a sparse ground layer dominated by Bothriochloa ewartiana and Sehima nervosum, often with Triodia longiceps. Occurs on ephemeral watercourses with active beds. (BVG1M: 19b)

14.91

2 River red gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) woodland with bare sand or tussock grass ground layer on streambeds and lower banks.

1.3.7 Least Concern

Endangered

Fringing woodland of Eucalyptus camaldulensis, with Melaleuca bracteata on levees of smaller channels and M. argentea on those of larger ones. Lophostemon grandiflorus usually present, occasional Terminalia aridicola. Eucalyptus microtheca or E. leucophylla on finer textured soils. Melaleuca leucadendra may dominate creek lines where water is available for extended periods each year. Occurs on recent levees and channel deposits of larger tributaries; alluvial soils. (BVG1M: 16a)

24.27

3 Whitewood (Atalaya hemiglauca) scattered low trees with annual grass dominated ground layer on Cainozoic plain.

1.5.6 Least Concern

Of Concern

Low open-woodland of Atalaya hemiglauca, Acacia excelsa, Ventilago viminalis, Grevillea striata, Hakea lorea subsp. lorea, Ehretia saligna, Owenia spp., Corymbia terminalis and C. aparrerinja. Shrubby understorey includes Acacia spp. and Carissa lanceolata. Occasional Acacia aneura in the west. Ground cover dominated by Aristida spp., sometimes forming grasslands. Occurs on outwash plains from ranges of strongly folded pre-Cambrian rocks, usually adjacent to clay plains; red earths and clays. (BVG1M: 27b)

229.15

4 Gidgee (Acacia cambagei) open woodland with annual grass dominated ground layer on Cainozoic plain.

1.5.8 Least Concern

No Concern at Present

Low open-woodland of Acacia cambagei, Atalaya hemiglauca and Ventilago viminalis. Sparse shrub layer and sparse ground cover of annual and perennial grasses. Occurs on Tertiary and Quaternary outwash plains; red-brown earths and red-brown solonetz. (BVG1M: 26a)

112.23

5 Snappy gum (Eucalyptus leucophloia) scattered low trees or low open woodland with wattle (Acacia acradenia) open shrub layer and spinifex (Triodia molesta) ground layer on hills and footslopes of coarse-grained meta-sediments.

1.11.2a Least Concern


Low open-woodland of Eucalyptus leucophloia often with Corymbia spp., Terminalia aridicola and E. leucophylla with shrub layer of Acacia spp. and ground layer of Triodia spp. Occurs on steep hills and strike ridges (BVG1M: 19a)

605.15

PLACE DESIGN GROUP


Pla

nt

Co

mm

un

ity

ID

Short Description from Field Observations RE Code Status RE Description3 Area

Mapped (ha)

Ma

na

gem

en

t S

tatu

s1

Bio

div

ers

ity

S

tatu

s2

6 Mixed low open woodland or scattered low trees including whitewood (Atalaya hemiglauca) and desert bloodwood (Corymbia terminalis) with spinifex (Triodia molesta) ground layer on footslopes and hills of fine-grained meta-sediments.

1.11.2e Least Concern


Low open-woodland of Eucalyptus leucophylla and E. leucophloia often with Acacia cambagei and Corymbia terminalis with a sparse ground layer of Triodia pungens and/or Triodia longiceps. Occurs on footslopes and lower slopes, broken by creeks and drainages (BVG1M: 19b)

227.70

7 Gidgee (Acacia cambagei) low woodland with sparse ground layer on hills of fine-grained meta-sediments.

1.11.2x2 Least Concern


Acacia cambagei low woodland. Occurs on hills and ranges of fine grained metamorphic sediments. (BVG1M: 26a)

16.93

8 Normanton box (Eucalyptus normantonensis) low woodland with bare ground or tussock grass ground layer fringing small drainage lines in hills and footslopes of coarse-grained meta-sedimentary material.

1.11.2x6

Least Concern


New unit. Normanton box (Eucalyptus normantonensis) low woodland with bare ground or tussock grass ground layer fringing sma

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