APPENDIX I. Great Barrier Reef Draft Strategic Assessment: PTP Response

Transcription

1 APPENDIX I Great Barrier Reef Draft Strategic Assessment: PTP Response

2 Review of the Impacts of the Pacificus Tourism Project against the outcomes of the GBRWHA Strategic Assessments 1. Introduction The Great Barrier Reef Strategic Assessment draft reports were released in November 2013, after the PTP EIS was finalised for public release. Although the Strategic Assessment was not included in the EIS Guidelines for PTP, and was released after the EIS was finalised for release, at request of Department of the Environment we have reviewed the Strategic Assessment and prepared an assessment of consistency of PTP with the outcomes of the Strategic Assessment. This review has focussed on: Whether the PTP EIS has adequately addressed the pressures and impacts identified in the Strategic Assessment as being associated with coastal (tourism) development, island development and tourism and recreation activities The extent to which PTP will contribute to or exacerbate the identified pressures and impacts and contribute to benefits and enhancement of the GBR Whether the measures proposed in the PTP EIS to avoid, mitigate and otherwise manage impacts are consistent with those identified as best practice in case studies. The Strategic Assessment was prepared in two parts, with one report for the coastal component (Coastal SA) and one for the marine component (Marine SA). There is considerable geographical overlap between the two assessments. The Marine SA was prepared by the GBRMPA and covers an area called the Great Barrier Reef Region, which is described as including all waters seaward of the low water mark, except Queensland internal waters, and approximately 70 islands that are managed by the Commonwealth. It is not clear whether marine areas outside the GBRMP but inside the GBRWHA are included in the Great Barrier Reef Region. The Marine SA also looks at land based activities in terms of impacts on water quality and values of and impacts on terrestrial ecosystems that support marine environmental values. The Coastal SA was prepared by the Queensland Government and covers Queensland coastal waters, islands in the GBRWHA and the catchments draining to the GBR. As both the Marine and Coastal components of the Strategic Assessment dealt with the impacts of coastal/island development and tourism and recreational activities on MNES, both components have been reviewed in relation to PTP. The review contains the following sections: Section 2 Summary Attachment - Page 1

3 Section 3 Coastal SA Pressures and Impacts Section 4 Marine SA Pressures and Impacts Section 5 Review against Island Management Demonstration Case. Information presented in this review is a summary of information presented in the PTP EIS. Reference should be made to relevant sections of the PTP EIS wherever further detail is sought. 2. Summary In summary: The PTP EIS has addressed all of the impacts identified in the SA as being associated with coastal (tourism) development, island development and tourism and recreation activities With measures in place to avoid, mitigate and manage impacts, PTP will not exacerbate any of the identified impacts and may contribute to reduced impacts particularly through enhanced resilience of terrestrial ecosystems. In particular, the footprint of PTP avoids disturbance to all potentially significant habitats and other features that contribute to the OUV of the GBRWHA and to other MNES values, and proposes best practice design and management of water, wastewater and stormwater. Management and mitigation measures are backed with comprehensive monitoring programs that will determine the iveness of these measures in avoiding impacts on MNES and allow for adaptive management if impacts are detected that are attributable to PTP. PTP will deliver on the benefits of tourism identified in the SA while avoiding and managing potentially adverse impacts PTP is consistent with all of the legislative and policy controls identified in the SA as important to management of the MNES values of the GBR. 3. Coastal Assessment Pressures and Impacts Section 5 of the Coastal SA identifies key pressures and impacts on MNES in the coastal zone. Activities identified as impacting on MNES are as follows: Urban and industrial development Tourism development and use Port development and dredging Agriculture Mining and quarrying Natural resource management. Of these, urban and industrial development, tourism development and use and natural resource management are considered relevant to PTP. It is assumed that recreational use is included in tourism development and use. The assessment also identified the following groupings of pressures and impacts: Climate variability and change Loss of habitat and connectivity Decline in water quality Attachment - Page 2

4 Pests, weeds and diseases Modified fire regimes Disturbance of species, for example from fishing, hunting, vehicle / vessel strike, noise and light Altered flow regimes. All of these potential impacts were examined in detail in the PTP EIS. Table 3-1 summarises the extent to which PTP may contribute to these pressures and impacts. Note that the assessment of impacts on the OUV of the GBRWHA is not broken down into impacts on each of the four listing criteria. The general focus of the assessment in the Coastal SA is on impacts on habitat and biodiversity values with less attention paid to aesthetic values, superlative natural phenomena and geological/geomorphological impacts. The assessment of the relative significance of the impact is taken from Table of the Coastal SA and relates to the overall significance of the impact identified in the Coastal SA. It is not clear whether threatened and migratory species include only terrestrial species, or also marine species. In the assessment of potential contribution from PTP, consideration has generally only been given to terrestrial species as impacts on marine species are covered in Table 4-3 below. The assessment of the contribution of different activities to the impact is taken from Table of the Coastal SA and again, relates to the overall significance of the impact identified in the Coastal SA. Table 3-1 Potential Contribution of PTP to Identified Pressures and Impacts Pressure/Impact Climate variability and change Relative significance of impact: GBRWHA very high Threatened species essential habitat High Migratory species habitat: Very high Threatened ecological communities high Contribution of activities to the impact not applicable A climate change risk assessment is provided in Section Section addresses cumulative impacts of PTP in terms of exacerbation of climate change impacts or vulnerability of ecosystems to climate change. PTP will be designed to withstand damage from extreme weather events. The presence of PTP will not exacerbate the s of extreme weather events. In particular, development is set back from the erosion prone area along the coastline to allow for geomorphological changes to the coastline that may occur in severe weather events. Projects and activities that reduce the resilience of ecosystems can make ecosystems, habitats and individual species more vulnerable to the s of extreme weather events. Design of the PTP footprint to avoid more sensitive habitats on HHI and mitigation measures to prevent degradation of terrestrial and aquatic habitats by indirect impacts will maintain resilience. Active management of the balance of HHI as a conservation area may also improve resilience of terrestrial habitats to extreme weather events. A range of design and mitigation measures have been adopted to prevent degradation of water quality, which could in turn reduce resilience of aquatic ecosystems to ocean acidification. The water/wastewater and stormwater management approaches ensure no increases in discharges of contaminants compared to the pre-development status for HHI. A range of mitigation and awareness raising measures are proposed to Attachment - Page 3

5 Pressure/Impact address water quality impacts from recreational boating activities. PTP will make a minor contribution to greenhouse gas emissions through energy consumption in construction and operation of the project, but will comply with all relevant legislation and requirements in relation to greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, the proponent has committed to utilising best practice energy conservation measures in design, construction and operation of the PTP. Given the significance of climate changerelated s on the OUV of the GBRWHA and other MNES, the proponent will revisit whether it is practicable to utilise renewable energy for some or all of PTP s energy demands, however it should be noted that the amount of greenhouse gas emissions from PTP is extremely small on a regional or national scale. Loss of habitat and connectivity Relative significance of impact: GBRWHA High Threatened species essential habitat High Migratory species habitat: Low Threatened ecological communities high Contribution of activities to the impact: Urban and industrial development Very high Tourism development and use low Natural resource management positive The footprint of PTP has been carefully designed to avoid threatened ecological communities, known migratory shorebird foraging and roosting sites and habitat that may be suitable for listed threatened species. This is discussed in Section 2.2.2, Section 4 and Sections and of the EIS. Although potential habitat for species of conservation significance will not be severed by PTP, the development footprint also allows for maintenance of wildlife movement across the development through making elements of the development porous and locating the golf course to provide east-west connectivity (see Sections of the EIS). PTP also proposes an innovative dual carriageway design where the main access road passes through the wildlife corridor. Fauna crossings will be provided where detailed surveys or monitoring indicate these to be necessary. It should be noted that most of the fauna of HHI that is likely to move between terrestrial habitat areas is aerial, and hence not at significant risk from vehicle strike. The water mouse will be able to move under the bridge. Further information is provided in Section The proposal to protect the balance of the special lease and HHI in a managed conservation area will protect terrestrial habitats and threatened ecological communities from risk of development and enhance habitat values of these areas. A management plan will be prepared for the conservation area. Within the PTP footprint, a Wildlife Habitat Management Plan will form the basis for enhancing and managing habitat within the development, and interfaces between the development and adjacent conservation area will be managed. Management activities in the conservation area and within the development footprint will include weed and pest control and rehabilitation of disturbed areas as well as maintenance and enhancement of habitat values and connectivity and management of access and access restrictions to various parts of HHI. The proponent will fund management during the Attachment - Page 4

6 Pressure/Impact development phase (approximately 16 years) and then management will be transferred to Gladstone Regional Council with funding obtained from a bushland levy. Further information on management arrangements and approaches is provided in Section 2.6, and Catchment runoff and decline in water quality Relative significance of impact: GBRWHA Very high Threatened species essential habitat Low Migratory species habitat: Very low Threatened ecological communities Very low Contribution of activities to the impact: Urban and industrial development High Tourism development and use low Natural resource management positive The Coastal SA noted that impacts of diffuse runoff and point source discharges from urban and industrial areas were of localised minor significance. Section 8.5 of the EIS discusses potential impacts on water quality from PTP and identifies measures to avoid and manage potential impacts. Water, stormwater and wastewater management systems for PTP have been designed to: Avoid any point source discharges of wastewater, treated or untreated. This is primarily achieved through a closed loop wastewater treatment and reuse system. Ensure that the quality and quantity of stormwater leaving the development area is unchanged from pre-development conditions or, in the case of stormwater quality, improved. This is achieved through application WSUD principles. In relation to nutrients PTP s stormwater management systems have been designed so that nutrients in stormwater runoff are attenuated using stormwater quality improvement devices. This is discussed in Section of the EIS. Additional management and monitoring measures are proposed for the golf course to manage application of fertiliser and prevent increase in release of nutrients. First flush and low flow runoff events will be collected for reuse. Management will meet the requirements of Australian Golf Course Superintendents Association (AGCSA) (2001) Guidelines and e- par, which is an ISO based EMS specifically designed for golf courses by AGCSA. This is discussed further in Sections and of the EIS. An emergency discharge point will be required for the wastewater treatment system as this is a standard requirement for such systems. The system has been designed with a number of avoidance and back up measures to prevent emergency discharge and in the event that such a discharge was to occur, the quantity of nutrients that would be released is negligible, and would occur over a timeframe of one to two days. This is discussed further in Section In relation to sediments Sections and discuss the potential impacts from sediment releases during construction and development. Given the very small quantities of sediment that might be released, and the likely iveness of erosion and sediment controls, no additional impact on coastal and marine environments is expected. In relation to pesticides, Section sets out management Attachment - Page 5

7 Pressure/Impact approaches for use of pesticides in landscaped and garden areas, for pest and insect control and at the golf course. By minimising pesticide use, selecting low toxicity and low persistence pesticides and following legislative and best practice guidelines, PTP and the adjacent managed conservation area can be managed to avoid pesticide contamination in adjacent waters. A monitoring program will be used to check the iveness of pesticide management and allow for amendment to management practices (adaptive management) if pesticides are detected in the receiving environment. Potential direct and indirect impacts on water quality from chemical and oil/hydrocarbon spills and releases are discussed in Sections , , and Established standards for storage, handling and management of hydrocarbons and other potentially hazardous substances are well established and will be followed. These measures are expected to be ive in minimising risk of spills occurring and in responding to spills in the event that they do occur. Additionally, in the event that spills or releases do occur, the quantities involved, and the nature of the materials likely to be present is such that only minor, localised impacts are expected. Pests, weeds and diseases Relative significance of impact: GBRWHA Very high Threatened species essential habitat high Migratory species habitat: high Threatened ecological communities high Contribution of activities to the impact: Urban and industrial development High Tourism development and use low Natural resource management very high [suspect an error in the assessment] Modified fire regimes Relative significance of impact: GBRWHA No Threatened species essential habitat very high Migratory species habitat: Low Threatened ecological communities Very high Weed and pest animal management will be undertaken within the development footprint, in all landscaped areas and in all areas set aside for conservation. It is expected that levels of existing weeds, predators and other introduced species can be reduced through active management, and as HHI is separated from the mainland by a minimum of several hundred metres, prevention of reinfestation and recolonisation should be achievable. Barriers will also be established on the bridge to prevent introduced animals from reaching HHI from the mainland. A particular conservation benefit will be achieved through removal of rubber vine from the patches of littoral coastal vine thicket as this is identified in EPBC Act Policy Statement 3.9 Littoral Rainforest and Coastal Vine Thickets of Eastern Australia A nationally threatened ecological community as a weed of particular concern. Further information is provided in Sections 8.3.8, 8.3.9, and Section of the EIS assess the increased risk to terrestrial habitats from bushfires. Most of the vegetation community types adjacent to PTP will benefit from burning on a regular basis, with appropriate intervals for burning varying amongst the vegetation communities. Three communities will not benefit from regular burning, one of which is the critically endangered coastal vine thicket ecological community. Fire prevention and management regimes will be incorporated Attachment - Page 6

8 Pressure/Impact Contribution of activities to the impact: Urban and industrial development No Tourism development and use No Natural resource management very high [suspect an error in the assessment] Disturbance of species, including fishing, hunting, vehicle / vessel strike, noise, light Relative significance of impact: GBRWHA High Threatened species essential habitat Low Migratory species habitat: Very low Threatened ecological communities Very low Contribution of activities to the impact: Urban and industrial development High Tourism development and use low Natural resource management low into the Wildlife Habitat Management Plan and Conservation Area Management Plan. Vegetation communities that are vulnerable to fire will be protected by fire breaks and access restrictions. Queensland regulations already prohibit smoking in public places, but further restrictions will be placed at the golf course and beach access points. Where fire breaks are necessary, these will be incorporated into the development footprint. In addition, building design will include measures for fire prevention and response, including automated sprinkler systems where appropriate. With the proposed measures in place, the EIS concluded that appropriate fire regimes should be able to be achieved and maintained for vegetation on HHI. PTP will increase levels of activity on HHI and in waters around HHI. Potential for disturbance to important migratory shorebird roosting and foraging habitat is discussed in detail in Section Natural restrictions on access to these areas are expected to be sufficient to avoid impacts, however the proponent will also enforce additional access restrictions if necessary. Flatback turtles and little terns may potentially nest on the beach to the east of the proposed development. As this beach will be part of the managed conservation area, it is proposed to monitor the beach for nesting activity and, iof nesting of either species has occurred, to prevent access to this area. This is discussed in Section 8.3.8, and Potential for marine turtles and dugong to be disturbed while foraging is discussed in Section A 6 knot boat speed limit is proposed to minimise disturbance, and it should also be noted that the shallow, enclosed nature of waters to the south and east of HHI is such that boat speed is naturally restricted in any case. PTP will require artificial lighting of buildings and public areas. Potential impacts from artificial lighting are discussed in Section Design controls will be used to minimise light spill to both terrestrial and coastal/marine areas and it is predicted that with design controls and monitoring and further mitigation of light impacts, that impacts on habitat and species can be avoided. As low level, intermittent turtle nesting has been observed on HHI, a more detailed analysis of potential impacts on turtle nesting and hatching has been provided in Section Natural topographical and vegetation barriers are expected to be sufficient to avoid impacts, and these will be preserved and protected in the proposed conservation area. Monitoring will also be carried out and further source-reduction mitigation Attachment - Page 7

9 Pressure/Impact measures adopted if necessary. Noise levels from PTP are discussed in Section Noise emissions from construction and operation are predicted to be low, and there is significant separation distance to potentially noise sensitive habitats such as migratory shorebird roosting and foraging habitat. Altered flow regime Relative significance of impact: GBRWHA Low Threatened species essential habitat Low Migratory species habitat: Low Threatened ecological communities Very low HHI features minor ephemeral streams that make very limited contribution to freshwater flows into the GBRWHA and no flows into the GBRMP. The stormwater management systems for PTP have been designed such that there is no measurable change in flows from existing ephemeral watercourses, using the principles of Water Sensitive Urban Design. Harvesting of overland flow for water supply is not proposed. This is discussed in detail in Section Contribution of activities to the impact: Urban and industrial development High Tourism development and use low Natural resource management Low The assessment of potential impacts presented in the EIS includes robust assessment of the potential for PTP to contribute to each of the identified pressures and impacts. Overall, PTP is not expected to exacerbate any of the pressures and impacts identified in the Coastal SA, nor is it expected to reduce resilience of any of the MNES values represented on our around HHI to external pressures such as climate change. Terrestrial ecosystem diversity and resilience will benefit from the proposed managed conservation area through improved habitat for native animals and increases resilience to other influences. No new or additional management or mitigation measures are identified as being necessary to address these pressures and impacts. Section 5.6 of the Strategic Assessment also identified gaps in knowledge in relation to evaluation of condition of MNES. The EIS studies already undertaken for PTP, and proposed management and monitoring programs will contribute to several of these, including: Estuarine habitat data Condition measures for those attributes that contribute to the OUV of the GBRWHA on and around HHI Attachment - Page 8

10 Long term monitoring of the status and trends for MNES species habitats and changes over time, and attributes that contribute to the OUV of the GBRWHA. Importantly, this monitoring will link with long term monitoring at a regional level that has been undertaken for PCIMP and Gladstone Ports Corporation. A better understanding of the iveness of certain mitigation measures in protecting and enhancing MNES habitat and attributes that contribute to the OUV of the GBRWHA, including iveness of water, wastewater and stormwater management and golf course management in protecting coastal water quality An improved understanding of the environmental processes that underpin MNES in the coastal environment around HHI An inventory of Indigenous cultural heritage and explicit recognition of linkages to environmental management. 4. Marine Strategic Assessment Pressures and Impacts 4.1 Marine SA - Section 5 Drivers and Activities Section 5.4 of the Marine SA discusses the general pressures from tourism and recreation activities, which include provision of accommodation and other supporting infrastructure. PTP will also potentially increase boat-based recreational and commercial tourism activities as well as recreational activities generally. Both commercial and recreational activities make a significant contribution to local and regional economies. A range of benefits of tourism and recreation are identified and these are summarised in Table 4-1, together with an assessment of the contribution to these benefits from PTP. Table 4-1 Tourism and Recreational Activities Benefits Tourism Benefit Contribution to the regional economy and employment opportunities. PTP will provide: $925 million direct value added regional income from building and construction Predicted expenditure from domestic, interstate and international visitors of $65pa million by 2016 and $95pa million by 2024 An estimated average of 190 jobs per year from 2015 to 2030 directly generated during construction Regional employment opportunities for both skilled and unskilled positions, including in engineering design, construction supervision and trades, earthmoving, equipment operation, transport and building and landscaping during construction 700 direct jobs in tourism, hospitality and related activities once PTP reaches full capacity An additional estimated 850 jobs from flow on activities in Queensland alone Importantly, PTP will provide diversification of regional employment opportunities and economic activities. The Gladstone and Central Queensland regional economies are centred heavily on mining and Attachment - Page 9

11 Tourism Benefit industrial activity while PTP will provide employment opportunities in hospitality, tourism and related industries. The proponent also has an agreement with the traditional owners (Port Curtis Coral Coast claimant group) in relation to training and employment of indigenous people in various aspects of construction, tourism and hospitality, but also particularly focussing on conservation area management and monitoring and activities through the proposed indigenous cultural heritage centre. Contribution to funding through the environmental management charge [a charge levied by GBRMPA on tourists accessing the GBRMP via commercial tourism activities]. Tourism operators are actively involved as stewards of the reef As PTP itself is not located in the GBRMP, the proposal will not directly contribute to the environmental management charge. However, PTP is expected to generate additional demand for commercial tourism activities which will increase revenue both from tourism permitting and the environmental management charge. It is proposed to partially fund environmental management initiatives proposed as part of PTP from a levy on council rates. This ensures ongoing sustainable funding for aspects such as the managed conservation area. PTP includes a strong focus on environmental awareness and stewardship over and above the range of design features and mitigation measures proposed to avoid or minimise impacts on environmental values. Initiatives include: Management of habitat values within the development footprint and an actively managed conservation area on the balance of HHI An indigenous cultural centre promoting cultural heritage and traditional management of natural resources, involving traditional owners in providing ranger and interpretation services A visitor centre including material to raise environmental awareness of visitors, both in terms of understanding and appreciating the environmental values of the area, and being aware of measures that individuals can take to minimise impacts of their activities Information and interpretive signs to reinforce messages from the visitor centre Information signs at the boat ramp and other access points to inform users of legislative requirements in relation to use of the GBRMP/GBRCMP, fishing restrictions, boat speed restrictions, litter and waste management and other requirements as relevant. A terrestrial and marine research centre with a focus on research on local environmental management issues and environmental education and awareness A comprehensive marine water quality and ecosystem monitoring program that will link with regional monitoring programs and also test the iveness of mitigation measures proposed for land based development and recreational activities and thus support adaptive management of the marine environment around HHI (see Section ). It is noted that these initiatives align well with information gaps and opportunities for improvement identified in the Marine SA and Coastal SA. Provision of access to the GBR and There are very limited opportunities to access either land or water Attachment - Page 10

12 Tourism Benefit presentation of the GBRWHA values. Significant enjoyment is also derived by both tourists and local residents from accessing the GBR region components of the Mackay-Capricorn region of the GBRWHA and the GBRMP. PTP will provide access in a controlled, managed and monitored manner supported by public education, awareness raising and interpretive material to reinforce the need to care for the environment. The master planning of PTP has taken into account the need to provide accommodation facilities for a range of socio-economic groups and personal preferences, with accommodation options ranging from a caravan and camping park (limited duration stays only) to family oriented villas and units, motel style accommodation and luxury resort hotels. A wide range of formal and informal activities will also be available and facilities will also be provided for day trippers. The EIS evaluates potential impacts of increased access and concludes that access can be provided without degrading the environmental values of HHI and surrounding waters (see Sections 8.4.6, 8.4.7, 8.4.8, , , , , 8.7, 8.8, 11.7, 12.2). PTP will improve access to the land and coastal areas of the southern GBRWHA and GBR region through provision of a boat ramp, access to beaches and the other land based recreational opportunities that will be available at PTP. There are limited current opportunities for access to the GBRWHA and GBRMP in the Gladstone area and PTP will enhance this. It should also be noted that the proponent Eaton Place is a gold member of Ecotourism Australia which the Marine SA identifies as important to maintaining high standards in relation to tourism activities. Section of the Marine SA also identifies the benefits of research activities. PTP includes a proposal to establish a Terrestrial and Marine Research Centre as part of the development. Discussions are underway with leading Queensland universities to enable the centre to contribute to academic and scientific research in relation to development in the region. In addition to commitments made in the EIS, PTP will also review the information gaps identified in the Strategic Assessment and consider targeting research activities at the centre to address some of these gaps. Section 5 of the Marine SA also generically identifies potential impacts in relation to increased tourism and recreation usage. Potential impacts are summarised in Table 4-2, together with an assessment of the potential for PTP to contribute to these impacts. The Marine SA notes that, with the controls in place in relation to permitting of commercial tourism activities and through zoning and access controls, tourism and recreation are considered low risk activities. The exception to this is recreational fishing, the impacts of which are poorly understood. This is acknowledged in the PTP EIS (refer Sections and Section 11 and 12.2). The proposed marine water quality and ecology monitoring programs (see Section ) will assist in identifying degradation of marine habitats and triggering further controls on recreational boating that may be required. Attachment - Page 11

13 Table 4-2 Tourism and Recreational Activities Impacts Tourism Impact Conflict between and displacement of various users Damage to benthic habitats including seagrass and coral from anchoring. Dredging, clearing and modification of coastal habitats for tourism facilities and maintenance activities Discharge of sewage from boats Increased pressure on fish stocks from recreational fishing. Litter, including discarded fishing gear leading to entanglement of marine megafauna. It is unlikely that the intensity of activity generated by PTP will be such that conflict between users occurs, particularly given the current low levels of activity. The potential for anchor damage to seagrass beds is identified in Section and evaluated in detail in Section The proponent proposes to monitor the health of shallow seagrass beds adjacent to HHI and has proposed contingency measures in the event that anchor damage occurs, with the key contingency measure being establishment of a no anchor zone over this area. No anchoring zones have been implemented in parts of the GBRMP as a response to anchor damage and this measure is expected to be ive. No dredging is required for PTP, and with the exception of the bridge and boat ramp, no development will take place in the coastal zone as defined by the erosion prone area. Clearing of mangroves and seagrass is not required except for minor clearing for the bridge and the boat ramp, which are located in an already cleared and disturbed area. Most recreational boats associated with PTP will be small and will not have sewage holding tanks but will also generally not be at sea for long periods of time, nor carry large numbers of people. As discussed in Section , marine water quality monitoring will detect impacts and PTP can implement measures such as provision of sewage disposal at the boat ramp if required. A toilet block will be provided at the boat ramp and information signs will also include information encouraging boaters not to discharge human wastes directly to the marine environment. The Marine SA acknowledges that the impacts of recreational fishing on fish stocks are poorly understood and are likely to be higher in inshore areas close to major population centres. As discussed in Section of the EIS, the increase in recreational fishing that may arise from PTP will be manifested largely through a redistribution of fishing activity caused by the provision of a formal, all tide boat ramp in Boyne Creek rather than an overall regional increase in the number of people engaged in recreational fishing. There will however be a localised increase in recreational fishing. Controls are also in place under GBRMPA zoning plan and Queensland Fisheries Act and PTP will ensure that users of the boat ramp are made aware of these limitations. Signs will be provided at the boat ramp reminding boaters of these requirements. PTP may give rise to increased levels of marine debris from land based sources. This is discussed in Section and Section also discusses potential impacts of littering from recreational boating activities. The assessment identifies ive controls that will minimise litter from land based sources, and also notes that there are laws in Attachment - Page 12

14 Tourism Impact place regarding littering on land or at sea. The proponent acknowledges that in spite of anti-littering laws, people are often careless with litter and commits to monitoring litter levels on coastal and inshore areas around PTP and implementing clean ups if controls to prevent litter and debris are not fully ive PTP will raise awareness of the importance of proper disposal of fishing gear and through the marine ecological monitoring program, detect whether further management actions are required. Injury or death to marine animals from boat strike. PTP is expected to generate an increase in small recreational boat traffic in waters around HHI, this potentially increasing the likelihood of boat strike on turtles and dugong which occur in these waters. This is discussed in Section and detailed assessments of potential impacts on marine turtles and dugong are provided in Sections and A 6 knot boat speed limit is proposed to control this risk, and it should also be noted that the shallow, enclosed nature of waters to the south and east of HHI is such that boat speed is naturally restricted in any case. 4.2 Marine SA Section 6 Impacts on the Values Overview Section 6 of the Marine SA identifies and reviews impacts on the GBR Region s values. The values are grouped into biodiversity values, geomorphological features and Indigenous and heritage values. An assessment of the potential for PTP to contribute to impacts on biodiversity values geomorphological values and indigenous heritage values is provided in Sections 4.2.2, and respectively. Impacts on aesthetic values, and superlative natural phenomenon (Criteria vii of the GBRWHA) are not explicitly dealt with in the Strategic Assessment Biodiversity Values Table 6.2 of the Marine SA identified impacts on biodiversity values against various activities undertaken in the GBR catchment and region. PTP will introduce additional levels of activity for urban development, tourism, fishing recreational and recreation. Using the matrix in Table 6.2 of the Marine SA, the relevant pressures and impacts from PTP are then identified and a summary of the potential contribution to each of these impacts by PTP is provided in Table 4-3. Table 4-3 also includes the assessment on habitats and species/groups of species provided in Tables 6.6 and 6.7 of the Marine SA. Only those habitat types and species/groups of species represented in areas likely to be influenced by PTP are included. As the nearest coral reef is over 50km from PTP, coral reef habitats were not included. Section 10 of the Marine SA has also provided an assessment of the future risk to biodiversity from the identified impacts over the next 25 years. The risks, rated low, medium, high and very high, are included in Table 4-3. Attachment - Page 13

15 Table 4-3 Impacts on Biodiversity Values Pressure/ Impact Scale (1) and Trend (2) Effects on habitats (2) Effects on species and groups of species (3) Future Risk (25 years) (4) Altered ocean currents Reef-wide No (or unknown) No (or unknown) Medium PTP will not have any on ocean currents. PTP does not require any infrastructure that may interfere with ocean currents, nor is any modification of the coastline required. Increased freshwater inflow Regional Seagrasses low Mangroves low Beaches and coastlines no Islands no Benthic macroalgae very low Bony fish no Marine turtles very low Shorebirds no Dugong no High HHI features minor ephemeral streams that make very limited contribution to freshwater flows into the GBRWHA and no flows into the GBRMP. The stormwater management systems for PTP have been designed such that there is no measurable change in flows from existing ephemeral watercourses, using the principles of Water Sensitive Urban Design. Harvesting of overland flow for water supply is not proposed. This is discussed in detail in Section Nutrients from catchment runoff Reef-wide Stable Islands no Beaches and coastlines low Mangroves no Seagrasses high Benthic macroalgae High Bony fish no Marine turtles very low Shorebirds No Dugong Low Very high PTP s stormwater management systems have been designed so that nutrients in stormwater runoff are attenuated using stormwater quality improvement devices. This is discussed in Section of the EIS. Additional management and monitoring measures are proposed for the golf course to manage application of fertiliser and prevent increase in release of nutrients. First flush and low flow runoff events will be collected for reuse. Management will meet the requirements of Australian Golf Course Superintendents Association (AGCSA) (2001) Guidelines and e-par, which is an ISO based EMS specifically designed for golf courses by AGCSA. This is discussed further in Sections and of the EIS. Attachment - Page 14

16 Pressure/ Impact Scale (1) and Trend (2) Effects on habitats (2) Effects on species and groups of species (3) Future Risk (25 years) (4) Outbreak of Crown of Thorns starfish Regional Islands no Beaches and coastlines no Mangroves no Seagrasses no Bony fish Low Marine turtles no Shorebirds no Very high There are no coral reefs within 50km of HHI and hence, there is limited opportunity for PTP to influence crown of thorns outbreaks. In any case, PTP has been designed with a closed loop water and wastewater treatment and management system such that there will not be any discharge of nutrients to the environment. This is discussed in Section of the EIS. Dugong no As above, stormwater systems have also been designed to attenuate nutrients from the development footprint and golf course management will prevent increases in nutrient levels in catchment runoff from the golf course. Pesticides from catchment runoff Regional Stable Islands no Beaches and coastlines no Mangroves low Seagrasses high Benthic macroalgae high Bony fish very low Marine turtles low Shorebirds very low Dugong low High Section sets out management approaches for use of pesticides in landscaped and garden areas, for pest and insect control and at the golf course. By minimising pesticide use, selecting low toxicity and low persistence pesticides and following legislative and best practice guidelines, PTP and the adjacent managed conservation area can be managed to avoid pesticide contamination in adjacent waters. A monitoring program will be used to check the iveness of pesticide management and allow for amendment to management practices (adaptive management) if pesticides are detected in the receiving environment. Sediments from catchment runoff Reef-wide Stable Islands very low Beaches and coastlines very low Mangroves very low Seagrasses high Benthic macroalgae low Bony fish no Marine turtles low Shorebirds no Dugong low Very high Sections and discuss the potential impacts from sediment releases during construction and development. Given the very small quantities of sediment that might be released, and the likely iveness of erosion and sediment controls, no additional impact on coastal and marine environments is expected. Attachment - Page 15

17 Pressure/ Impact Scale (1) and Trend (2) Effects on habitats (2) Effects on species and groups of species (3) Future Risk (25 years) (4) Urban and industrial discharge Local Islands very low Beaches and coastlines very low Mangroves very low Benthic macroalgae very low Bony fish no Marine turtles very low Medium PTP has been designed with a closed loop water and wastewater management system such that there is no planned discharge of treated wastewater or any other effluent (brine from the desalination plant will be treated by evaporation). This is discussed further in Sections and of the EIS. Seagrasses very low Shorebirds no Dugong no An emergency discharge point will be required for the wastewater treatment system as this is a standard requirement for such systems. The system has been designed with a number of avoidance and back up measures to prevent emergency discharge and in the event that such a discharge was to occur, the quantity of nutrients that would be released is negligible, and would occur over a timeframe of one to two days. This is discussed further in Section Acid sulphate soils Local Islands very low Beaches and coastlines low Mangroves low Seagrasses very low Bony fish low Marine turtles no Shorebirds very low Dugong no Medium Small quantities of potential acid sulphate soils may be disturbed or displaced during construction. Section discusses how potential acid sulphate soils will be identified and managed. The Queensland Acid Sulfate Soil Technical Manual sets out management and treatment approaches for acid sulphate soils that are reliably ive and by following these measures, impacts on the adjacent coastal and marine environments from disturbance of acid sulphate soils can be avoided. Artificial barriers to flow Regional Islands very low Beaches and coastlines low Mangroves low Seagrasses very low Bony fish low Marine turtles low Shorebirds high High PTP will not create any artificial barriers to flow. In any case streams on HHI are all highly ephemeral and do not provide for fish passage, or feed into coastal (brackish) wetlands. Subject to approval under the EPBC Act, it is proposed to breach the existing causeway across Boyne Creek to facilitate passage of dugong, turtle and other large marine animals and remove this Attachment - Page 16

18 Pressure/ Impact Scale (1) and Trend (2) Effects on habitats (2) Effects on species and groups of species (3) Future Risk (25 years) (4) Dugong no existing partial barrier to tidal flows. Atmospheric pollution Local No /not understood No /not understood Low PTP will make minimal contribution to atmospheric pollution. The proposal does not include any fuel burning equipment or other point source emissions to air. Exhaust emissions from vehicles and recreational boats will make very minor, localised contributions to air emissions. During construction, minor amounts of dust may be released but can be easily contained to the immediate area of activity (see Section 8.4.5). Coastal reclamation Local NA NA Medium Coastal reclamation is not required for PTP. Light impacts (artificial) Local No /not understood Bony fish very low Marine turtles low Shorebirds very low Medium PTP will require artificial lighting of buildings and public areas. Potential impacts from artificial lighting are discussed in Section Design controls will be used to minimise light spill to both terrestrial and coastal/marine areas and it is predicted that with design controls and monitoring and further mitigation of light impacts, that impacts on habitat and species can be avoided. Dugong no effecet As low level, intermittent turtle nesting has been observed on HHI, a more detailed analysis of potential impacts on turtle nesting and hatching has been provided in Section Natural topographical and vegetation barriers are expected to be sufficient to avoid impacts, and these will be preserved and protected in the proposed conservation area. Monitoring will also be carried out and further source-reduction mitigation measures adopted if necessary. Modifying supporting Regional Islands Low Beaches and coastlines Very high PTP will require partial or full clearing of up to 410 ha of terrestrial woodland and open forest habitat (see Section 8.3.2). The Attachment - Page 17

19 Pressure/ Impact Scale (1) and Trend (2) Effects on habitats (2) Effects on species and groups of species (3) Future Risk (25 years) (4) terrestrial habitats High Mangroves High Seagrasses no Bony fish high Marine turtles low Shorebirds low Dugong no development footprint has been specifically designed to ensure that: Vegetation types with identified conservation significance are retained The overall diversity of individual plants and vegetation communities within the GBRWHA is retained Habitat for particular species of conservation significance is retained Connectivity is maintained Representative examples of all vegetation community and habitat types are retained. Remnant vegetation within the development footprint will be actively managed for habitat and wildlife values (see Section 8.3.9). The remainder of HHI will be actively managed as a conservation area and the proponent will seek protection for this area under the Queensland Nature Conservation Act 1993 (see Section 8.3.8). This will mean that the remainder of vegetation on HHI will be protected from future development threats, and enhanced through active management. Potential indirect impacts from PTP on terrestrial vegetation are assessed in Section 8.4 of the EIS and management and mitigation measures are identified that ively address indirect impacts. Dredging Local No trend NA NA Medium Dredging is not required for PTP. Exotic species and diseases Regional Islands high Beaches and coastlines Medium HHI currently has low to moderate levels of weeds and introduced animals. There are no known outbreaks of diseases affecting waters around HHI, however diseases present throughout the region could Attachment - Page 18

20 Pressure/ Impact Scale (1) and Trend (2) Effects on habitats (2) Effects on species and groups of species (3) Future Risk (25 years) (4) high Bony fish no affect waters around HHI at any time. Mangroves no Seagrasses no Marine turtles no Shorebirds no Dugong no Measures to prevent and manage increases in weed infestation are provided in Section In addition, weed and introduced predator control will be key foci of the Wildlife Habitat Management Plan and of management of the proposed conservation area (see Sections and 8.3.9). Weed hygiene measures will be applied to construction vehicles and equipment (See Section 8.4.2). Extraction death of discarded species Extraction fishing in spawning aggregations Regional Stable Reef-wide Stable No (at a habitat level)/not understood No (at a habitat level)/not understood Bony fish low Marine turtles high Shorebirds no Dugong high Bony fish high Marine turtles no Shorebirds no Dugong no Very high (species of conservation significance) High (other species) High PTP will not lead to an increase in commercial fishing or other mechanisms that result in significant amounts of bycatch and death of discarded species. PTP has committed to assist the Queensland Government should the Queensland Government wish to raise the protection level of the Rodds Bay Dugong Protection Area (DPA) from Level B to Level A by purchasing fishing licences from the area. If this change in designation of the DPA goes ahead, this will reduce commercial fishing pressure and may reduce bycatch from commercial fishing in the area. This is discussed further in Section PTP may increase recreational fishing activity in waters around HHI due to provision of a formal, all weather boat ramp. Section discusses potential impacts from increased recreational fishing effort in waters around HHI. Further assessment in terms of potential impacts on the GBRMP is provided in Section It is acknowledged that the impacts of recreational fishing are poorly understood and PTP is committed to: Raising awareness of current regulations and limitations Attachment - Page 19

21 Pressure/ Impact Scale (1) and Trend (2) Effects on habitats (2) Effects on species and groups of species (3) Future Risk (25 years) (4) Extraction herbivores Reef-wide Stable No (at a habitat level)/not understood Bony fish very low Marine turtles low Shorebirds no Medium applying to recreational fishing in waters around HHI, including restrictions under the GBRMP/GBRCMP zoning plan and the Queensland Fisheries Act. Working with GBRMPA and Queensland government to support enforcement of illegal fishing Assisting where possible with research and data collection in relation to recreational fisheries. Dugong high Extraction lower order predators Reef-wide Stable No (at a habitat level)/not understood Bony fish low Medium Marine turtles low Shorebirds no Dugong no Extraction lower trophic orders Reef-wide Stable No (at a habitat level)/not understood Bony fish very low Medium Marine turtles no Shorebirds no Dugong no Extraction top predators Reef-wide No (at a habitat level)/not understood High Attachment - Page 20

22 Pressure/ Impact Scale (1) and Trend (2) Effects on habitats (2) Effects on species and groups of species (3) Future Risk (25 years) (4) Stable Bony fish low Marine turtles no Shorebirds no Dugong no Illegal fishing and poaching Reef-wide No (at a habitat level)/not understood Bony fish low Marine turtles high Shorebirds no Dugong high Very high PTP is not likely to increase the level of illegal fishing and poaching that occurs in waters around HHI as these waters are already accessible to those wishing to undertake illegal activities. The waters are also readily open to scrutiny. As above, PTP is committed to raising awareness of regulations and limitations applying to fishing and other marine extractive activities and supporting relevant agencies in enforcement of these requirements. Marine debris Reef-wide Islands very low Beaches and coastlines low Mangroves no Seagrasses no Bony fish very low Marine turtles low Shorebirds low Dugong low High PTP may give rise to increased levels of marine debris from land based sources. This is discussed in Section and Section also discusses potential impacts of littering from recreational boating activities. The assessment identifies ive controls that will minimise litter from land based sources, and also notes that there are laws in place regarding littering on land or at sea. The proponent acknowledges that in spite of anti-littering laws, people are often careless with litter and commits to monitoring litter levels on coastal and inshore areas around PTP and implementing clean ups if controls to prevent litter and debris are not fully ive. Physical damage other Local Islands no Beaches and coastlines Benthic macroalgae very low Medium The potential for anchor damage to seagrass beds is identified in Section and evaluated in detail in Section The Attachment - Page 21

23 Pressure/ Impact Scale (1) and Trend (2) Effects on habitats (2) Effects on species and groups of species (3) Future Risk (25 years) (4) no Mangroves no Seagrasses low Bony fish no Marine turtles no Shorebirds no Dugong no proponent proposes to monitor the health of shallow seagrass beds adjacent to HHI and proposes contingency measures in the event that anchor damage occurs, with the key contingency measure being establishment of a no anchor zone over this area. No anchoring zones have been implemented in parts of the GBRMP as a response to anchor damage and this measure is expected to be ive. Spill small chemical or oil Local Islands very low Beaches and coastlines very low Mangroves very low Seagrasses very low Benthic macroalgae very low Bony fish very low Marine turtles very low Shorebirds very low Dugong very low Medium Potential direct and indirect impacts on water quality from chemical and oil/hydrocarbon spills and releases are discussed in Sections , , and Established standards for storage, handling and management of hydrocarbons and other potentially hazardous substances are well established and will be followed. These measures are expected to be ive in minimising risk of spills occurring and in responding to spills in the event that they do occur. Additionally, in the event that spills or releases do occur, the quantities involved, and the nature of the materials likely to be present is such that only minor, localised impacts are expected. Vessel strike on wildlife Local No (at a habitat level)/not understood Bony fish no Marine turtles low Shorebirds no Dugong low Medium PTP is expected to generate an increase in small recreational boat traffic in waters around HHI, thus potentially increasing the likelihood of boat strike on turtles and dugong which occur in these waters. This is discussed in Section and detailed assessments of potential impacts on marine turtles and dugong are provided in Sections and A 6 knot boat speed limit is proposed to control this risk, and it should also be noted that the shallow, enclosed nature of waters to the south and east of HHI is such that boat speed is naturally restricted in any case. The ability of larger boats to access waters around HHI will not be altered as such boats will not be able to launch from the proposed boat ramp, and there will be no change to the depth of waters in tidal channels around HHI. Attachment - Page 22

24 Pressure/ Impact Scale (1) and Trend (2) Effects on habitats (2) Effects on species and groups of species (3) Future Risk (25 years) (4) Although not identified in the marine SA as an impact, the EIS also examined potential risk to migratory shorebirds from aircraft strike and an aircraft exclusion zone is proposed over key shorebird roosting and foraging areas (see Sections and Waste discharge from vessels Local Islands very low Beaches and coastlines very low Mangroves no Seagrasses no Benthic macroalgae very low Bony fish no Marine turtles no Shorebirds no Dugong no Medium PTP may give rise to an increase in recreational boating activity in waters around HHI. Boats using the boat ramp are expected to be small boats, less than 6m. Human wastes and other wastes may be discharged from the boats to water. Potential impacts are assessed in Section and and, given the low quantities of wastes involved, ability of the marine environment to attenuate these wastes in low concentrations and the good tidal flushing in waters around HHI, degradation of water quality is not expected. The marine water quality monitoring program will identify if degradation is occurring and restrictions can be put in place if necessary. Wildlife disturbance Local No (at a habitat level)/not understood Bony fish very low Marine turtles low Shorebirds low Medium PTP will increase levels of activity on HHI and in waters around HHI. Potential for disturbance to important migratory shorebird roosting and foraging habitat is discussed in detail in Section Natural restrictions on access to these areas are expected to be sufficient to avoid impacts, however the proponent will also enforce additional access restrictions if necessary. Dugong very low Flatback turtles and little terns may potentially nest on the beach to the east of PTP. As this beach will be part of the managed conservation area, it is proposed to monitor the beach for nesting activity and, if nesting of either species has occurred, prevent access to this area. This is discussed in Section 8.3.8, and Potential for marine turtles and dugong to be disturbed while Attachment - Page 23

25 Pressure/ Impact Scale (1) and Trend (2) Effects on habitats (2) Effects on species and groups of species (3) Future Risk (25 years) (4) foraging is discussed in Section A 6 knot boat speed limit is proposed to minimise disturbance, and it should also be noted that the shallow, enclosed nature of waters to the south and east of HHI is such that boat speed is naturally restricted in any case. (1) From Table 6.1 of the Marine SA (2) From Table 6.6 of the Marine SA (3) From Table 6.7 of the Marine SA (4) From Table 10.3 of the Marine SA Attachment - Page 24

26 4.2.3 Geomorphological Features The Marine SA notes that many of the impacts affecting the condition of biodiversity values may also be affecting the geomorphological features of the Region as the geomorphology and ecology of the Great Barrier Reef are strongly interdependent. The Marine SA lists out those pressures and impacts with particular relevance to geomorphological features and an assessment of the potential for PTP to contribute to these impacts is provided in Table 4-4. This assessment confirms the conclusions in Section 8.10 and 11.3 of the PTP EIS that impacts on geological and geomorphological features, and hence impacts on the contribution that these impacts make to the OUV of the GBRWHA are not predicted. Some enhancement may arise from removal of the existing causeway in Boyne Channel. Table 4-4 Impacts on Geomorphological Features Pressure/Impact Cyclones Artificial barriers to flow Modifying supporting terrestrial habitats Dredging Dumping and resuspension of dredge material Sediment from catchment runoff PTP will be designed to withstand damage from extreme weather events. The presence of PTP will not exacerbate the s of extreme weather events. In particular, development is set back from the erosion prone area along the coastline to allow for geomorphological changes to the coastline that may occur in severe weather events. HHI features minor ephemeral streams that make very limited contribution to freshwater flows into the GBRWHA and no flows into the GBRMP. The stormwater management systems for PTP have been designed such that there is no measurable change in flows from existing ephemeral watercourses, using the principles of Water Sensitive Urban Design. Harvesting of overland flow for water supply is not proposed. This is discussed in detail in Section The Queensland Government has also requested PTP to partially breach the existing causeway across Boyne Creek once the bridge is in place (see Section and It is also proposed to upgrade an existing causeway across supratidal saltflats along the Clark s Road reserve on the mainland which will include culverts to restore tidal flows across the saltflats. See Table 3-1. Modification of terrestrial habitats is not expected to have any impact on geomorphological features as no major changes to island topography and drainage characteristics are proposed, and sediment loads in runoff will be controlled through erosion and sediment controls (construction) and stormwater systems (operation). There is no dredging or dumping of dredged material required for PTP. See Table 3-1 and Table 4-3. Given controls on sediment in catchment runoff during construction and operation, it is not expected that current sediment deposition patterns in adjacent coastal areas will change. Attachment - Page 25

27 Pressure/Impact Physical damage from fishing activities PTP will not contribute to an increase in the types of fishing activities that might cause physical damage to the sea bed. Increased freshwater flow See Table 3-1 and Table 4-3. As the stormwater management system is designed to maintain flows in ephemeral creeks on HHI, no change to coastal processes associated with freshwater flows are expected. Coastal reclamation PTP does not require any coastal reclamation Cultural Heritage Values Section 6 of the Marine SA also examines impacts and pressures of activities on cultural heritage values. A range of impacts identified in Section 6 of the Marine SA have the potential to impact on traditional owner harvesting and hunting of food by reducing stocks of traditionally hunted and harvested species. These impacts include: Death of discarded catch Extraction of lower order herbivores Extraction of lower order predators Extraction of lower trophic orders Illegal take Vessel strike on wildlife. The potential for PTP to contribute to these impacts and the proposed mitigation measures is addressed in Table 4-3. The Marine SA also identifies that development activities can result in loss of cultural heritage sites, artefacts and materials. In this regard, the proponent has a registered cultural heritage management plan in place with the Port Curtis Coral Coast traditional owner representative group. This plan was prepared under the requirements of the Queensland Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2003 and deals with management of items and places of cultural heritage value, and other cultural heritage matters. The Marine SA also notes that impacts on water quality from urban and industrial discharges and pesticide contaminated runoff can affect marine plants and animals that are linked to indigenous cultural heritage values. PTP does not involve any discharge of treated wastewater or other contaminants to the environment. The stormwater management system has been designed in accordance with the principles of Water Sensitive Urban Design with the fundamental design principles being that there is no significant change to the quality or quantity of runoff, or the locations from which land-based runoff is discharged to the coastal and marine environment. Pesticides will be carefully selected to minimise toxicity to and persistence in the receiving environment and special management measures will be applied to the golf course and other areas where pesticides are used to ensure that toxic substances are not discharged to the environment. Attachment - Page 26

28 5. Island Management Demonstration Case (Joint Coastal and Marine SA) The Strategic Assessment includes a demonstration case on island management prepared jointly by Queensland Government and GBRMPA. The demonstration case focusses largely on islands that are managed as National Parks under the Queensland Nature Conservation Act 1993, or by GBRMPA. HHI is not one of these islands, nor does either GBRMPA or Queensland Government undertake any conservation management actions on HHI. The demonstration case notes that conservation management actions for islands of the GBR are determined on a priority basis. The demonstration case does provide more general information on the contribution that islands make to the OUV of the GBRWHA, including examples of particular features of value. The assessment of the contribution that HHI makes to the OUV of the GBRWHA provided in Section 7.2 of the EIS is consistent with the assessment provided for the demonstration case both in terms of the attributes identified and the importance of these attributes. Section 1.3 of the Demonstration Case discusses pressures and impacts on islands. As these are similar to those identified in the Coastal SA and Marine SA, these are not repeated here. The extent to which PTP contributes to identified impacts and pressures is discussed in Table 3-1, Table 4-3 and Table 4-4. Section of the Demonstration Case identifies some additional impacts from tourism and recreation activities. A summary of how each of these impacts will be avoided or managed for PTP is provided in Table 5-1. Table 5-1 Tourism and Recreation Activity Impacts Pressure/Impact Disturbance from artificial lighting turtle hatchlings can be disoriented by artificial light so that they head landward instead of seaward. Waste discharge (including litter, bush toileting and sewage). Low level, intermittent flatback turtle nesting has been observed on one beach of HHI. This beach is not immediately adjacent to the proposed development footprint and is screened from the development by topography and vegetation. The vegetation screen will be retained as it is in the proposed conservation area, and is a threatened ecological community. It is not proposed to allow human activity adjacent to this beach as the beach is backed by critically endangered coastal vine thicket ecological community. Regardless, building design will minimise obtrusive s of lighting (as per AS4282). In addition, it is proposed to monitor lighting levels on the beach once the development is underway and if an increase in lighting over background levels is detected, the source will be identified and attenuated. Note that the beach is currently subject to some obtrusive lighting s from the Tannum Sands urban area and Boyne Island Smelter. Potential impacts from artificial lighting are discussed in Section with a more detailed analysis in relation to turtle nesting and hatching provided in Section Management of wastewater, stormwater and general wastes is discussed in Sections 3, 4 and 5. Attachment - Page 27

29 Pressure/Impact While it is intended to provide walking tracks and nature based recreational activities at PTP, camping will not be allowed outside the campground and most activities will be of short duration. Public toilets will be provided at the beach access point and at other areas likely to be visited by day visitors. Bush toileting is therefore expected to be negligible. Public toilets will be connected to the reticulated sewerage system such that all sewage will be treated and reused within PTP. Litter control is discussed in Section The initial management focus is based on gross pollutant traps in stormwater systems, and awareness raising for land and water based activities. Litter disposal receptacles will be provided at visitor access locations and rangers will assist in reinforcing no littering requirements. Retention of coastal woodland and mangrove vegetation will also assist in trapping litter from land based activities. If monitoring indicates litter control is not ive, the proponent will arrange for regular clean-up events. Transfer of pests (invasive species and pathogens) from the mainland and between islands. Trampling and vehicular traffic can lead to the localised permanent damage to vegetation cover and consequent erosion of soil. This can reduce burrowing substrate for birds and, during heavy rainfall, lead to the flooding and deposition of sediment in downslope breeding areas, changing vegetation and soil structure and possible disruption to breeding activities. Soil disturbance also leads to increased weed colonisation, which can in turn lead to increased fire risk. HHI already has low to moderate levels of weed invasion and introduced animals including some predators. Weed and pest control measures will be implemented as part of the Wildlife Habitat Management Plan and Conservation Area Management Plan (see Sections and 8.3.9). Further measures to prevent and manage increases in weed and pest infestation, including weed hygiene protocols for construction vehicles and equipment are provided in Section It is not expected that there will be significant inter-island traffic from boats launched at PTP due to the small size of the boats. These programs are likely to reduce this impact rather than increase it. It is proposed to provide walking tracks through woodland areas and controlled access to the northern beach. Walking tracks will be constructed so as to minimise erosion and concentration of flows, particularly on steeper slopes of the main ridgeline. In addition, the soils and vegetation cover of much of HHI are expected to be reasonably resilient to trampling. Access tracks will be checked for weed invasion and control measures implemented if necessary. Access will not be provided to more sensitive areas such as the coastal vine thicket and, if access is seen to be occurring, signs and fencing can be used to further restrict access. Access to the main migratory shorebird roosting and foraging sites is currently very difficult due to dense vegetation, intertidal waterways and muddy conditions and fencing is not expected to be necessary to prevent access to this area. Vehicles will not be allowed off-road, and vehicle access to the beach will not be permitted. The beach to the east of the headland may be utilised by flatback Attachment - Page 28

30 Pressure/Impact turtles and terns for nesting in some years. Access to this beach will be limited, but visitors will be able to walk onto the beach from the headland. The beach will be monitored for turtle or tern nesting in late spring/summer of each year and if nesting is observed, signs and temporary fencing will be used to further restrict access. As the balance of HHI will be a managed conservation area, it will be possible to monitor impacts of access to and use of the remnant vegetation and habitat areas and implement additional management measures if impacts re occurring. Weed and fire control will be incorporated into the Wildlife Habitat Management Plan and conservation area management plan. More information is provided in Sections and of the EIS. Risk of wildfire from campfires. Increased development pressure for facilities, resorts, vessel landing areas (jetties, boat ramps). Domestic animals. Development of informal tracks and camping sites. Campfires will not be permitted. Gas barbecues may be provided at public access areas, however these are not associated with increased fire risk. The proponent has committed to converting the balance of the special lease area to a managed conservation area with protected area status under the Queensland Nature Conservation Act The proponent also has an agreement with the Queensland government that the remainder of the island will also be converted to a conservation area. This will remove pressure for further development. More information is provided in Sections and It is proposed to ban cats and allow dogs only under strict control. Camping at PTP will only be allowed within the designated Caravan and Camping Park. As the balance of HHI will be managed as a conservation area, it will be possible to monitor and prevent development of informal tracks and camping sites. Section of the case study discusses impacts from clearing or modifying habitat and notes that 27 islands have resorts and/or residential development, phosphate mining has previously occurred on a number of islands and Curtis Island has significant industrial development. This section notes that Despite changes in many islands of the GBR being substantial, the impact of clearing or modifying island habitat overall has had a low, requiring limited additional intervention. The impact assessment for PTP has concluded that clearing of habitat for the development will not affect the contribution that HHI makes to the OUV of the GBRWHA, or the ecological values of the island itself, as representative areas of all habitat types and vegetation communities will be retained, protected and actively managed. All areas identified as having potential national or State environmental significance will be retained, protected and managed. Section 1.4 of the case study discusses the iveness of legislation, policies, guidelines and strategies in managing conservation values of, and impacts of development and use on MNES found on islands, including the contribution that islands make to the OUV of the GBRWHA. PTP is consistent with all identified legislation, policies, guidelines and strategies and specific reference to those directly relevant to PTP is provided in Section 3 of the EIS. PTP has also received a Coordinator-General s Report under Attachment - Page 29

31 the Queensland State Development and Public Works Organisation Act 1971 indicating that the project can proceed under relevant State legislation. The management iveness of these programs is evaluated in Section 1.8 of the case study and found to be partially ive in relation to islands such as HHI. In particular, there is no formal or informal management of islands such as HHI that for conservation values. Information gaps and opportunities for improvement of management iveness have been identified in Sections 1.6 and 1.10 respectively. The additional management and mitigation measures adopted for PTP are consistent with these and will assist both in filling information gaps and in actively managing MNES values on and around HHI. For example: A wildlife and habitat management plan will be developed for management of habitat within the development footprint and a conservation area management plan will be developed for the balance of HHI. The plans will include active management of weeds, pests and fire regimes, rehabilitation of degraded habitats, measures to protect known and potential habitat for threatened and migratory species and presentation of the island s environmental values to the community. The plans will be backed up with monitoring and feedback mechanisms to ensure that an adaptive management approach is taken. Water quality and marine ecology monitoring programs will be used to check the iveness of land-based impact avoidance and mitigation measures on the marine environment. Funding for environmental management and monitoring activities will be provided by the proponent, and in the longer term, these activities will be managed by the regional council using funds collected from a bushland levy. Resource constraints are therefore addressed. Condition and trend monitoring and reporting will be incorporated into management plans. Monitoring programs will be consistent with and, preferably, in collaboration with existing monitoring activities undertaken for the nearby Gladstone Harbour healthy harbours program and the Port Curtis Integrated Monitoring Program The PTP will provide visitor opportunities that are currently lacking in the southern part of the GBR and address predicted increased demand for tourism and recreational access in a managed and sustainable manner. Thus, visitor enjoyment and economic and social benefits of tourism will be balanced with a healthy, well-presented island. The proponent has a cultural heritage management plan in place with the Port Curtis Coral Coast people, and it is expected that, if PTP goes ahead, this will form the basis for traditional owner involvement in management of conservation values of HHI, presentation of these values to visitors to PTP and protection of Aboriginal cultural heritage values of HHI. The proposed wildlife and habitat management plan and conservation area management plan will use adaptive management approaches to check the iveness of management actions and adjust as necessary. This in turn will promote resilience of the terrestrial ecosystems on HHI to external threats such as climate change. As HHI contains some vegetation communities that are threatened and/or not well represented in the GBRWHA, this will maintain and potentially enhance the contribution that these vegetation communities make to the OUV of the GBRWHA. Attachment - Page 30