LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT IMPLEMENTATION PLAN ......All landscape management zones provide places for outdoor and informal learning. These include These include grassed areas, ovals, clearings

LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT IMPLEMENTATION PLAN

Callaghan Campus

Prepared for

University of Newcastle

September 2012

Ca l l a g h a n C am p us L a n d sc a p e M a n a g em en t I m p l em e n ta t i o n P l a n

© E C O L O G I C A L A U S T R A L I A P T Y L T D i

DOCUMENT TRACKING

ITEM DETAIL

Project Name Callaghan Campus Landscape Management Plan

Project Number 11SUTPLA-21

File location G:\Synergy\Projects\11SUTPLA\11SUTPLA-0021 Callaghan Campus Landscape Plan\Report

Project Manager

Beth Medway

02 8536 8612

PO Box 12 Sutherland NSW 1499

Prepared by Rob Humphries, Gordon Patrick, Mick Ward, Niels Rueegger

Approved by Beth Medway

Status Final

Version Number 5

Last saved on 3 September 2012

This report should be cited as ‘Eco Logical Australia 2012. Callaghan Campus Landscape

Management Implementation Plan. Prepared for the University of Newcastle.’

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

This document has been prepared by Eco Logical Australia Pty Ltd with support from the University of

Newcastle.

Disclaimer

This document may only be used for the purpose for which it was commissioned and in accordance with the contract between

Eco Logical Australia Pty Ltd and the University of Newcastle. The scope of services was defined in consultation with the

University of Newcastle, by time and budgetary constraints imposed by the client, and the availability of reports and other data

on the subject area. Changes to available information, legislation and schedules are made on an ongoing basis and readers

should obtain up to date information.

Eco Logical Australia Pty Ltd accepts no liability or responsibility whatsoever for or in respect of any use of or reliance upon this

report and its supporting material by any third party. Information provided is not intended to be a substitute for site specific

assessment or legal advice in relation to any matter. Unauthorised use of this report in any form is prohibited.


© E C O L O G I C A L A U S T R A L I A P T Y L T D ii

Contents

PART A – MANAGEMENT CONTEXT..................................................................................................... 1

1 Introduction ................................................................................................................................. 2

1.1 Need for implementation plan....................................................................................................... 2

1.2 Objectives of this plan .................................................................................................................. 2

1.3 Vision and mission ........................................................................................................................ 2

1.4 Landscape management principles .............................................................................................. 3

1.5 Landscape management zones ................................................................................................... 4

1.6 Funding ......................................................................................................................................... 4

2 Responsibilities .......................................................................................................................... 6

PART B – TECHNICAL GUIDELINES ..................................................................................................... 9

3 Vegetation maintenance .......................................................................................................... 10

3.1 Current situation ......................................................................................................................... 10

3.2 Objectives ................................................................................................................................... 10

3.3 Recommendations ...................................................................................................................... 10

3.3.1 Consider planning requirements................................................................................................. 10

3.3.2 Bushfire protection ...................................................................................................................... 11

3.3.3 Personal safety and security ...................................................................................................... 11

3.3.4 Vegetation health ........................................................................................................................ 11

3.3.5 Vegetation maintenance principles ............................................................................................ 11

3.3.6 Annual vegetation management schedule ................................................................................. 12

4 Replanting in the mixed use zone .......................................................................................... 14


4.2 Objectives ................................................................................................................................... 14


4.3.1 Soil .............................................................................................................................................. 14

4.3.2 Seed and plant supply ................................................................................................................ 14

4.3.3 Species selection ........................................................................................................................ 15

4.3.4 Planting ....................................................................................................................................... 15

4.3.5 Mulch .......................................................................................................................................... 15

4.3.6 Swales ........................................................................................................................................ 15

4.3.7 Species lists for revegetation of precincts .................................................................................. 15

5 Landscape infrastructure ........................................................................................................ 23


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5.2 Objectives ................................................................................................................................... 23


5.3.1 Audit ............................................................................................................................................ 23

5.3.2 Priorities for upgrades and new infrastructure ............................................................................ 23

5.3.3 Aboriginal cultural immersion trail............................................................................................... 23

5.3.4 Fitness trail ................................................................................................................................. 24

5.3.5 Treatments and materials ........................................................................................................... 24

6 Construction of minor capital works ...................................................................................... 25


6.2 Objectives ................................................................................................................................... 25


6.3.1 Tool-box talk ............................................................................................................................... 25

6.3.2 Environmental safeguards .......................................................................................................... 25

7 Sports oval management ......................................................................................................... 27


7.2 Objectives ................................................................................................................................... 27


7.3.1 Oval maintenance ....................................................................................................................... 27

7.3.2 Irrigation ...................................................................................................................................... 27

7.3.3 Perimeter treatments .................................................................................................................. 28

7.3.4 Expansion of facilities ................................................................................................................. 28

8 Biodiversity offsets management ........................................................................................... 30


8.2 Objectives ................................................................................................................................... 30

8.3 Biodiversity offsets ...................................................................................................................... 30


8.4.1 Scope of the offsetting strategy .................................................................................................. 31

8.4.2 Definition – significant impact ..................................................................................................... 31

8.4.3 Offsetting rationale ..................................................................................................................... 31

8.4.4 Environmental impact assessment ............................................................................................. 32

8.4.5 Offsetting key .............................................................................................................................. 34

8.4.6 Offset area .................................................................................................................................. 40

8.5 Other options for offsetting ......................................................................................................... 40

9 Bushland management ............................................................................................................ 41


9.2 Objectives ................................................................................................................................... 41


© E C O L O G I C A L A U S T R A L I A P T Y L T D iv


9.3.1 Overarching recommendations .................................................................................................. 42

9.3.2 Funding and priorities ................................................................................................................. 42

9.3.3 Action Plan - Zone 1 ................................................................................................................... 44

9.3.4 Action Plan - Zone 2 ................................................................................................................... 45

9.3.5 Action Plan - Zone 3 ................................................................................................................... 46

9.3.6 Action Plan - Zone 4 ................................................................................................................... 47

9.3.7 Action Plan - Zone 5 ................................................................................................................... 48

9.3.8 Action Plan - Zone 6 ................................................................................................................... 49

9.3.9 Action Plan - Zone 7 ................................................................................................................... 50

9.3.10 Action Plan - Zone 8 ................................................................................................................... 51

9.3.11 Action Plan - Zone 9 ................................................................................................................... 52

9.3.12 Action Plan - Zone 10 ................................................................................................................. 53

9.3.13 Action Plan - Wetland 1 .............................................................................................................. 54

9.3.14 Action Plan - Wetland 2 .............................................................................................................. 55

10 Community involvement .......................................................................................................... 56


10.2 Objectives ................................................................................................................................... 56


References ............................................................................................................................................. 57

Appendix A: Offsetting principles ...................................................................................................... 59

Appendix B: Revegetation in the bushland management zone ....................................................... 62


© E C O L O G I C A L A U S T R A L I A P T Y L T D v

List of Figures

Figure 1: Campus precincts ....................................................................................................................... 5

Figure 2: Sports ovals .............................................................................................................................. 29

Figure 3: EIA framework ........................................................................................................................... 33

Figure 4: Bushland management zones (adapted from Ecobiological 2011) .......................................... 43

List of Tables

Table 1: Skills matrix for on-ground work ................................................................................................... 7

Table 2: Arts precinct species list for revegetation ................................................................................... 16

Table 3: Hunter precinct species list for revegetation .............................................................................. 17

Table 4: Eastern precinct species list for revegetation............................................................................. 18

Table 5: Engineering and architecture precinct species list for revegetation ........................................... 18

Table 6: Sports precinct species list for revegetation............................................................................... 20

Table 7: Shortland precinct species list for revegetation ......................................................................... 21

Table 8: South precinct species list for revegetation................................................................................ 22

Table 9: Offsetting (to be read with key in Section 8.4.5) ........................................................................ 35


© E C O L O G I C A L A U S T R A L I A P T Y L T D vi

Abbreviations

ABBREVIATION DESCRIPTION

BRB Bush regeneration budget

EIA Environmental impact assessment

EP&A NSW Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979

EPBC Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

MNES Matter of National Environmental Significance

TSC NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995

UoN University of Newcastle


© E C O L O G I C A L A U S T R A L I A P T Y L T D 1

PART A – MANAGEMENT CONTEXT



1 Introduction

1.1 NEED FOR IMPLEMENTATION PLAN

The University of Newcastle’s (UoN) Callaghan Campus is known and promoted as ‘the bushland

campus’ because of its natural bushland setting. There are currently about 23,900 students and 2,500

staff at the Callaghan Campus. Student numbers are expected to grow to about 30,000 by 2021 which

will increase pressures on the bushland landscape.

The 2011-2013 Environmental Sustainability Plan for the university identified the need to preserve the

bushland character of the Callaghan Campus while achieving a balanced approach to campus

functionality and development. A framework is needed to guide the university in its landscape

management activities associated with gardens and sports fields, through to protecting and improving

bushland areas, and creating and maintaining biodiversity offsets for development within the campus.

1.2 OBJECTIVES OF THIS PLAN

This landscape management implementation plan will assist staff to plan, prioritise and implement

landscape works. The plan:

• Identifies the vision and principles that will guide landscape management

• Outlines the roles and responsibilities for landscape management, and the skills and

qualifications required

• Identifies management zones within the campus based on landscape features and values

• Identifies actions required in different management zones so that funding can be obtained and

work programs developed

This plan has been developed in close consultation with UoN staff and builds on previous plans and

strategies, such as the:

• Landscape Management Plan (Terras Landscape Architects 2008) including Technical Manual

• Ecological Conservation Zone Report, Callaghan Campus, University of Newcastle

(Ecobiological 2011)

• University of Newcastle Strategic Masterplan (DEGW 2008)

• Bushfire reports (Newcastle Bushfire Consulting 2010)

• 2011-2013 Environmental Sustainability Plan (University of Newcastle 2011)

Previous studies should be referred to during planning and implementation of landscape activities,

where relevant.

This plan does not seek to replicate or replace information presented in contract documents for

landscape management on campus.

1.3 VISION AND MISSION

A vision and mission for the landscape at Callaghan were developed by the University of Newcastle’s

Landscape Consultative Group (minutes of meeting 3 March 2011).



The vision for the landscape at Callaghan is:

To inspire our students, staff and visitors in our unique bushland campus, by leading in

environmental excellence.

The mission is:

Through leadership in environmental sustainability and innovation in outdoor space design,

realize a campus landscape where the bushland character is valued and admired by our staff,

students and visitors, and an effective blend of ecological conservation and campus

functionality is achieved.

1.4 LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT PRINCIPLES

The 2011-2013 Environmental Sustainability Plan for the Callaghan Campus sets the following

principles for landscape and biodiversity management, which are consistent with the objectives of the

Landscape Management Plan (Terras 2008).

• Preserve the bushland character and image of the university through the protection of native

flora and fauna

• Seek a practical balance between biodiversity and a safe and usable environment, minimising

potential risks to people, buildings and property

• Use Australian plant species, and preferably local provenance species, for new and

supplementary landscape plantings

• Utilise water sensitive urban design techniques to manage rainwater and stormwater on-site

and capture for reuse

• Apply best practice bush regeneration and landscape maintenance techniques

• Target noxious weeds and feral animals through the use of integrated pest management

approaches

• Actively promote the ecosystem services and amenity benefits of the bushland campus

• Promote a ‘bushwise’ and environmentally sensitive approach to occupying and moving around

the campus to engender tolerance and appreciation of flora and fauna

• Minimise, or at best avoid, native vegetation removal in capital works projects, and employ

compensatory offsets where native vegetation must be removed

• Avoid development in locations of high ecological value

• Maximise the opportunities for building occupants to have a view to the outside, and to source

fresh outside air

• Integrate building and landscape design to provide external meeting and teaching and learning

spaces

While this landscape implementation plan strongly supports these principles, a number of additional

principles have been identified in consultation with university staff:

• Minimise environmental impacts that may result from development through appropriate

planning, construction specifications and techniques, inductions and training

• Where possible, develop within the existing footprint of disturbed areas

• Provide opportunities for Aboriginal and environmental education

• Provide opportunities for minimum impact nature-based recreation

• Maintain high quality sports precincts

• Manage bushfire risk in accordance with recognised guidelines

• Provide opportunities for greater community involvement



• Provide opportunities for ongoing involvement of the special needs workforce

• Apply best practice bush regeneration principles in bushland areas

• Provide opportunities in the landscape for informal learning

1.5 LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT ZONES

For the purposes of this plan the campus landscape has been divided into three management zones

(Figure 1) according to its broad features and management requirements:

• Mixed use management zone encompasses the paths, roads, carparks, building precincts,

bushfire asset protection zones, constructed gardens and swales within the Arts, Eastern,

Engineering, Hunter, Shortland and South precincts

• Sports management zone covers ovals one to five (including the Ray Watt Oval) and

landscaped areas within the Sports precinct

• Bushland management zone relates to bushland areas within the campus

Figure 1 also shows the location of a proposed biodiversity offset area that would be established and

maintained to offset impacts associated with development across the campus. Further detail about

biodiversity offsetting is given in Section 8.

All landscape management zones provide places for outdoor and informal learning. These include

grassed areas, ovals, clearings along paths, or sheltered areas under trees where students may study

together or in solitude. These areas may require the provision of outdoor furniture such as shelters,

benches and tables, or could simply involve maintenance of lawns for students to sit on. Suitable

locations for informal learning should be identified and mapped as a component in the development of

the next Masterplan for the Callaghan Campus.

1.6 FUNDING

Funding for implementation of this landscape plan will be provided primarily through UoN’s capital

works program and maintenance program. Other funds will be sought from grants and in-kind

contributions, and these should be directed to projects that are unlikely to be funded directly by UoN.

Information about a bush regeneration budget for to support biodiversity offsets is provided in

Section 8.



Figure 1: Campus precincts



2 Responsibilities

Responsibility for implementation of this plan ultimately rests with the UoN’s Facilities Management

Unit. A skills matrix for staff and contractors that are responsible for on-ground works is provided on the

following page.

The UoN will continue to utilise the services of a range of contractors to manage the vegetation and

landscape environment within Callaghan campus. Contractual services that are administered by

Facilities Management include:

• General landscape management within designated areas of the mixed use management zone

by a landscape maintenance contractor

• Specific landscape management tasks within designated areas of the mixed use management

zone by a contractor that employs staff with disabilities

• Tree assessment and management services by an arborist / tree worker contractor

• Sports oval maintenance by a contractor with relevant expertise

This plan outlines opportunities for contractors or university staff to be involved in future management of

bushland areas within the campus, including a proposed biodiversity offset area.

All on-ground workers, including community volunteers, need to undergo a site-specific environmental

induction prior to commencing work.

Staff or contractors / consultants responsible for infrastructure planning and design need to have

relevant qualifications and experience (e.g. engineering, planning, architecture). Infrastructure needs to

be planned, designed and developed in accordance with the landscape principles listed in Section 1.4

of this plan as well as statutory and other requirements.



Table 1: Skills matrix for on-ground work

TYPE MINIMUM SKILLS / QUALIFICATIONS APPLICATION CURRENT & PROPOSED WORKFORCE

Supervisor Landscape or Land Management &

Conservation Diploma Plan and supervise on-ground works

Currently one supervisor - needs to cease

involvement in doing on-ground work to allow more

time for planning and supervision

Labourer (A) Basic level skills and training

Grounds maintenance (e.g. mowing, line trimming,

edging, sight line pruning, path cleaning, garden care,

waste mulching, chipping and recycling)

Currently six labour hire staff; to be replaced by

contractor

Labourer (B) Conservation & Land Management

Certificate III As above plus weed control and revegetation

Currently two labour hire staff; to be replaced by

contractor

Disabled / special

needs

Basic level skills and training

(Supervisor to have Land Management

& Conservation Certificate II or

equivalent training)

Grounds maintenance in flat / low risk areas (e.g.

mowing & slashing)

Services provided by the disability crews are

effective and good value for money. Contractor with

approximately 20 staff and 5 supervisors

Greenkeeper Horticulture (Turf) Certificate III

Care and maintenance of sports ovals including

measures to address damage and excessive wear

and tear, and perimeter maintenance

Contractor engaged under long-term contract; works

well and should be reviewed every five years

Bush regenerator

Conservation and Land Management

Certificate III * (Supervisor to have

Land Management & Conservation

Diploma)

Bushland management zone (e.g. weed control,

revegetation, seed collection (in accordance with

Florabank guidelines), propagation)

Currently none – a permanent bush regeneration

team of four (including one supervisor) should be

considered (either contractors or staff)

Arborist

Horticulture (Arboriculture) Certificate

IV and current International Society of

Arboriculture Certified Member

Advice regarding the tree health; plus tree surgery

On-call contractor

Tree worker Horticulture (Arboriculture) Certificate III Tree management On-call contractor



TYPE MINIMUM SKILLS / QUALIFICATIONS APPLICATION CURRENT & PROPOSED WORKFORCE

Students and

research staff - Research projects

Demand/supply is driven by the researchers and

may be supported by on-ground staff (e.g.

maintaining wallaby yards)

Community

volunteers incl.

students

- Revegetation, weed control, nursery, monitoring etc

Currently, Trees for Newcastle has a plant nursery

on Transgrid land adjacent the campus; opportunity

for additional community involvement

Minor capital

works Appropriate to the work required

E.g. path rebuild or new, traffic pavement repair and

minor alterations, external signage, seats, bins, bin

enclosures, cycle racks

Currently contracted on short-term basis as

required.

Need to ensure that minor capital works are done

consistent with the principles in this Landscape

Implementation Plan (e.g. minimal impact; use of

appropriate materials)

*This is the minimum requirement for a section 132c licence under the Threatened Species Conservation Act, which is needed to work in endangered ecological communities



PART B – TECHNICAL GUIDELINES



3 Vegetation maintenance

3.1 CURRENT SITUATION

Vegetation maintenance within the mixed use management zone (Figure 1) is currently managed on an

ad hoc and generally reactive basis. It involves:

• Vegetation pruning, trimming, edging and removal:

o To maintain bushfire asset protection zones

o For security e.g. where vegetation obstructs CCTV lines of sight or provides

potential hiding places

o For safety e.g. where vegetation overhangs paths or roads, or near electricity wires

o To remove diseased vegetation and weeds

o For stormwater management (e.g. removal of leaf litter from building gutters1 or

street drains)

o For lawn management

• Removal of leaf litter from street drains and building gutters to reduce flooding and bushfire risk

• Planting

• Mulching and chipping

On ground works are primarily done by contractors under supervision by UoN’s Facilities Management.

3.2 OBJECTIVES

To ensure the landscape management principles in Section 1.4 are being met as well as any statutory

obligations, a more pro-active approach is needed regarding vegetation maintenance. This will require

better planning and scheduling of work, particularly routine activities.

3.3 RECOMMENDATIONS

3.3.1 Consider planning requirements

Newcastle City Council allows trees to be removed without planning approval if they meet at least one

of the following criteria:

• Be located within 3 m of the wall of buildings (excluding carports, pergolas, fences, retaining

walls and the like) measured from the closest point of the trunk to the footings of the building

• Have a circumference at breast height not greater than 450 mm for a single trunk tree or not

greater than 300 mm for each trunk of a multi-trunk tree

• Be dead and not provide a habitat for hollow-dependent fauna (e.g. birds, possums)

Council permission is not required to prune vegetation or remove dead branches.

1 This also reduces bushfire risk



If trees need to be removed and the above criteria are not satisfied (e.g. for construction of new

infrastructure), additional planning approval may be needed. Consult with the University’s

Environmental Manager, Facilities Management on how to proceed.

3.3.2 Bushfire protection

The Callaghan Campus has been designated as ‘bushfire prone land’ by the Rural Fire Service (RFS)2.

General requirements for bushfire prone lands are dealt with under the:

• NSW Rural Fire Service (2006) Planning for Bushfire Protection

• NSW Rural Fire Service Standards for Asset Protection Zones

• NSW Rural Fire Service (2006) Bushfire Environmental Assessment Code

Newcastle Bushfire Consulting (2010) developed a series of bushfire reports for the Callaghan Campus

which included recommendations for vegetation management as well as building upgrades. However,

further review is required in consultation with the RFS because of some inconsistency with RFS

guidelines. For example, the NSW Bushfire Environmental Assessment Code requires a maximum

20 m asset protection zone (APZ) whereas Newcastle Bushfire Consulting recommends APZs greater

than this (e.g. inner APZ of 25 m plus outer APZ of 10 m for the engineering classrooms).

3.3.3 Personal safety and security

The UoN gives high priority to personal safety and security on campus. This includes maintaining

sufficient lines of sight by pruning vegetation adjacent to paths, roads, carparks, buildings, bus stops,

lights and CCTV security cameras. Alternatively, vegetation could be removed and replaced with more

suitable species that do not provide potential hiding places or obstruct lines of sight. Known high risk

areas (e.g. approach to Warabrook train station and vicinity of bus stop at the south-west corner of the

campus) should be given highest priority for vegetation maintenance.

3.3.4 Vegetation health

Vegetation can be adversely affected by disease, litter, weather, human activity (e.g. compaction of

roots, changes to drainage patterns) and weeds. Unhealthy or damaged vegetation should be

assessed to determine if it can recover unaided, recover with treatment, or if it should be removed.

Causes of poor vegetation health should be treated if possible, e.g. remove litter and weeds, redirect

human activity.

Tree health needs to be regularly assessed by a qualified arborist to ensure stability in areas of frequent

public use (refer to Section 3.3.6 for further details about baseline assessments and annual work

plans).

3.3.5 Vegetation maintenance principles

Vegetation maintenance should be undertaken in accordance with the following principles:

• Ground cover and shrubs should be maintained at a maximum height of 0.5 m along path

edges for personal security. Appropriate species selection in these areas will reduce the need

for ongoing maintenance (refer to Section 4)

2 http://www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0005/64670/CertifiedBFPLNewcastle8.4.09.pdf



• Avoid whipper-snipping at the base of trees because this can cause ring-barking and tree

death. Plant low groundcovers or grasses at the base of trees instead

• Prune trees only to remove branches or trees that are likely to pose a risk to public safety

• Suitable timing for pruning should be determined by the aborist so as to maintain vegetation

health

• Dead limbs containing hollows should not be removed unless there is a risk to public safety;

limbs with hollows that are trimmed from trees should be left on the ground to provide habitat

• The installation of nest boxes should be considered if tree hollows are removed

• Removed timber and native vegetation, unless diseased, should be reused on-site either as

habitat in bushland areas or mulched in garden beds

• Prune to reduce continuous canopy within the APZ

• Prune so that there is a vertical clearance of 4 m above parking spaces and 3 m above

walkways

• Any tree pruning should be conducted by a qualified arborist, and follow the Australian

Standard ‘Pruning of Amenity Trees – AS 4373-2007’

• Vegetation can be removed immediately if there is a significant threat to property or life e.g.

where a tree falls following storms or strong winds

• Refer to the Landscape Management Plan for the Callaghan Campus (Terras Landscape

Architects 2008) if additional information is required

3.3.6 Annual vegetation management schedule

An annual vegetation maintenance schedule needs to be developed collaboratively by an arborist and

the landscape supervisor for the mixed use zone. The schedule should identify and prioritise works to

address requirements for bushfire protection, personal safety, vegetation health and amenity. These

works are expected to focus on tree pruning done in accordance with the principles in Section 3.3.5.

An annual schedule will make it easier to allocate and control budgets, and report costs. An allowance

for contingencies should be made in each annual schedule to manage unexpected events e.g.

vegetation damaged by storms.

An excel spreadsheet or database 3 for the annual work plan should be developed using the following

headings:

• Date of assessment

• Name of assessor

• Location

• Costs/budget

• For all trees in the mixed use zone:

o Identification code

o Species

o Height (m)

o Spread (m)

o DBH (m)

3 Alternatively, the UoN could consider procuring a suitable software system that allows for the proactive

management of trees



o Age class (over-mature, mature, young)

o Health (good, fair, poor)

o Structure (good, fair, poor)

o SULE - to establish a baseline, all mature trees within the mixed use zone should be

audited and the Safe Useful Life Expectancy (SULE) for each tree determined. This

tree inventory would assist planning and ensure continuous tree cover by planting

replacement trees within the vicinity of trees that received a short SULE

o Hollows

o Tree significance (1, 2, 3)

o Position in APZ

o Comments

o Work required

o Frequency of work

The template, which would be developed into a work plan for each precinct, refers to the location of

works and tree identification code. To match database records to the on-ground vegetation, a small nail

with the identification code could be inserted in or near the subject vegetation.

The annual schedules, together with records of work performed, will assist the UoN in ongoing planning

and management of vegetation within the mixed use zone.

Records of work performed could be incorporated into the excel database. This could include the date

of when work was done and who carried out the work.



4 Replanting in the mixed use zone


In recent years, vegetation management in the mixed use zone has focussed on providing lines of sight

to address safety of staff, students and visitors to the campus. This has resulted in understorey plants

in some garden beds, swales and vegetated edges being replaced by mulch and a limited selection of

plant species being used. In some areas, particularly near carparks, the garden beds have not been

established and comprise exposed soil or fill.

4.2 OBJECTIVES

There is a need to replace vegetation in some garden beds with more suitable species and

progressively plant garden beds that are currently unvegetated. This replanting strategy aims to:

• Give a fresh and clear identity to different precincts within campus

• Reduce safety and bushfire risks

• Reduce maintenance costs

• Improve amenity

• Support existing native vegetation communities

• Increase the likely success of growth by providing a suitable soil medium, particularly in areas

associated with carparks

• Maintain the ‘bushland campus’ identity

Revegetation needs to balance the application of the principles of Crime Prevention through

Environmental Design with the landscape and biodiversity policy statements in the UoN’s Environmental

Sustainability Policy.

4.3 RECOMMENDATIONS

Highest priority for renewal should be given to areas that pose a security risk (see Section 3.3.3) or are

currently high maintenance.

4.3.1 Soil

Prior to replanting, the suitability of soil should be investigated and improved, if necessary. Soils that

are currently unvegetated and compacted may be prepared for planting by turning over the soil to break

up and loosen the soil and thus improve plant growth. In addition, once the plants are in ground they

should be watered regularly for approximately six weeks (depending on the weather conditions).

Mulching of newly planted areas is considered beneficial as this suppresses weed growth and improves

soil moisture retention.

4.3.2 Seed and plant supply

Ideally, any seeds and plants used in the landscaping should be locally indigenous and / or sourced

from local provenance stock. Seed or other propagative materials (e.g. cuttings) are generally easily

collected from the Callaghan Campus grounds or in the local area. The collected material could then be

used to produce the necessary plants in the Trees for Newcastle nursery or other local nurseries.



4.3.3 Species selection

Species to be planted in gardens for each precinct are tabulated on the following pages. Species have

been selected according to their current vegetation community type. The main species to be planted

will characterise each precinct, thus assisting with way-finding and amenity.

The form of nominated species has been chosen to address security and bushfire concerns. The

recommended species are primarily either groundcovers or small to low growing shrubs. Occasional

taller shrubs and small trees are also listed in the tables, although these are species that generally

comprise a single trunk and usually have low foliage of a sparse nature.

If species cannot be supplied from the nursery which is operated by Trees in Newcastle, a selection of

species presented should also be fairly readily available from local indigenous tubestock suppliers.

4.3.4 Planting

Planting will be done in accordance with the following:

• For security reasons, edges of paths, roads etc will be planted with groundcovers and shrubs

that grow to less than 0.5 m high

• Taller shrubs and trees will be positioned so they do not impede lines of sight or overhang

buildings

• The ‘main species’ identified in the following tables will be used to revegetate each precinct with

a distinctive character, with ‘other species’ providing minor supplementary plantings

• Grasses and herbs will generally be planted in dense groups (i.e. as clumps of each individual

species (5 -15 plants) interspersed with groupings of the other groundcover species) with small

remote sections containing isolated individuals or small groups of shrub / small tree species.

This will give an overall low appearance with some taller sections.

4.3.5 Mulch

All currently mulched areas should gradually be converted to groundcover. Mulch should continue to be

applied until groundcover is established to retain moisture and minimise weeds. Mulch applied should

be weed-free.

4.3.6 Swales

In the past, stormwater drainage swales were constructed at various locations throughout the campus.

Many of these have been planted with vegetation that has become a risk to security because it blocks

lines of sight. Some swales have grass that requires mowing, which can present a safety risk because

of the slopes and proximity to water. In addition, mowing of swales is labour intensive as it generally

requires the use of trimmers (i.e. whipper-snippers).

Vegetation on swales should be replanted with groundcovers less than 0.5 m high to minimise security

problems and maintenance. Suitable groundcover species should be selected for the precinct in which

the swale is located (see tables below).

Care should be taken when removing existing vegetation on swales in case frogs are present. Any

fauna should be relocated to nearby suitable habitat.

4.3.7 Species lists for revegetation of precincts

The following tables detail the species to be used in the various precincts to rejuvenate and revegetate

the garden beds and swales in the mixed use management zone.



Table 2: Arts precinct species list for revegetation

ARTS PRECINCT Current Vegetation Types: Coastal Foothills Spotted Gum – Ironbark Forest - Dry Variant Proposed landscaping theme: This precinct will be dominated by purple and mauve pea flowers - Twining Glycine, Purple Coral Pea and Native Indigo

Main species to be used Common Name Form Species Comments

Glycine clandestina Twining Glycine Twiner A slender twiner with purple pea flowers

Hardenbergia violacea Purple Coral Pea Shrub Climbing or prostrate, glabrous subshrub with purple pea flowers

Indigofera australis Native Indigo Shrub Small open shrub to around 1 / 1.5m with lilac pea flowers in spring

Other species Common Name Form Species Comments

Aristida vagans Threeawn Speargrass Grass Erect tufted or rhizomatous perennial

Billardiera scandens Hairy Apple Berry Shrub/Twiner Small shrubs up to 0.5 m high

Cymbopogon refractus Barbed Wire Grass Grass Perennial grass.

Daviesia ulicifolia Gorse Bitter Pea Shrub Attractive pea flowered shrub species

Digitaria parviflora Small-flowered Finger Grass

Grass

Entolasia stricta Wire Panic Grass Straggling or shrubby wiry rhizomatous perennial

Goodenia hederacea Forest Goodenia Herb Prostrate to ascending herb to 80 cm high

Laxmannia gracilis Slender Wire Lily Herb A herb up to 40cm height

Lissanthe strigosa Peach Heath Shrub Usually 15–70 cm high. Has lovely white-purplish Erica heath flowers

Lomandra filiformis Wattle Mat-rush Herb Perennial tussock, sparse or occasionally in short, dense mats to 20 cm diam

Lomandra multiflora Many-flowered - Mat-rush Herb Tufted perennial herb,

Microlaena stipoides Weeping Grass Grass Slender, tufted perennial



Panicum simile Two-colour Panic Grass Perennial

Pomax umbellata Herb Erect to spreading subshrub to 40 cm high

Brachyscombe multifida Cut-leaf Daisy Herb Small spreading perennial herb with beautiful lilac to mauve flowers.

Goodenia ovata Hop Goodenia Shrub Small bushy shrub to approx. 1m in height with yellow flowers.

Dianella caerulea var producta Blue Flax Lily Herb A tufted herb to around 0.7m tall. Will spread vegetatively. Blue flowers in spring / summer. Edible fruit.

Themeda australis Kangaroo Grass Grass A spreading tufted grass.

Table 3: Hunter precinct species list for revegetation

HUNTER PRECINCT Current Vegetation Type: Coastal Foothills Spotted Gum – Ironbark Forest - Dry Variant Proposed landscaping theme: This precinct will be dominated in the overstorey by the Prickly Shaggy Pea displaying attractive yellow and red pea flowers and an understorey dominated by pea-flowered twiners (False Sarsaparilla & Dusky Coral Pea)

Main species Common Name Form Species Comments

Hardenbergia violacea False Sarsaparilla Twiner An attractive twiner / scrambler with deep purple flowering racemes in spring.

Kennedia rubicunda Dusky Coral Pea Twiner A robust scrambling twiner with attractive large red pea flowers in spring / summer.

Podolobium ilicifolium Prickly Shaggy Pea Shrub A spiky erect shrub to around 1.5m high with attractive yellow and red flowers in spring.


Echinopogon caespitosus var caespitosus

Tufted Hedgehog Grass Grass Slender and erect grass to around 0.5 to 1m.

Echinopogon ovatus Forest Hedgehog Grass Grass Slender and erect grass to around 0.6m.

Entolasia stricta Wiry Panic Grass A spreading tufted grass, having a wiry stems / appearance.



Table 4: Eastern precinct species list for revegetation

EASTERN PRECINCT Current Vegetation Types: Coastal Foothills Spotted Gum – Ironbark Forest - Dry Variant Proposed landscaping theme: This precinct will be dominated by plants that display yellow flowers - Pultenaea villosa and Lomandra multiflora subsp multiflora

Main species to be used Common Name Form Species Comments

Pultenaea villosa A Bush Pea Shrub A compact to spreading shrub 0.5 to 2m high. Foliage is soft to touch. Has yellow pea flowers.

Lomandra multiflora subsp multiflora

Many-flowered Mat Rush Herb An erect grass-like herb with leaves to 0.5m long. Dense flowering heads.


Lomandra obliqua Fish Bones Herb Attractive small and low sprawling herb.

Dianella revoluta Blueberry Lily Herb Perennial with small bluish flowers and berries.

Glycine clandestina Twining Glycine Twiner A slender twiner with purple pea flowers.

Austrodanthonia tenuior A Wallaby Grass Grass A slender erect grass ranging from 0.5 to 0.7m high.

Joycea pallida Red-anther Wallaby Grass

Grass Tall attractive grass with flowering spikes to 1.2m high.

Poa affinis Poa Grass A tussocky grassy with a flowering panicle to often over 1m.

Pratia purpurascens Whiteroot Herb Small herb with whitish flowers

Table 5: Engineering and architecture precinct species list for revegetation

ENGINEERING & ARCHITECTURE PRECINCT

Current Vegetation Types: Coastal Foothills Spotted Gum – Ironbark Forest - Moist Variant & Riparian Closed Forest Proposed landscaping theme: This precinct will be dominated by ferns with a sparse cover of Native Frangipani and Tree Ferns


Adiantum aethiopicum Common Maidenhair Fern A small delicate fern to ~0.3m high, often forming dense colonies.



Fern

Asplenium australasicum Bird's-nest Fern Fern Attractive epiphytic fern suitable for ground growth.

Cheilanthes sieberi Mulga Fern Fern This fern is usually up to 25 cm tall

Christella dentata Binung Fern Fern Fern forming small clumps to 0.8m high.

Cyathea australis Rough Treefern Fern Treefern ranging from 2.5 to 6m in height.

Doodia aspera Rasp Fern Fern Small fern with very rough erect fern fronds to 0.4m. Attractive new growth.

Hymenosporum flavum Native Frangipani Shrub / Tree Generally a tall shrub to small tree with 1 main trunk. Foliage is very open and can be partially deciduous. Attractive flowers in spring.


Gymnostachys anceps Settler's Flax Herb Tall strappy graceful herb to 2m.

Polyscias sambucifolia Elderberry Panax Shrub Open shrub to around 2m high.

Carex appressa Carex Sedge Graceful tufted sedge to around 1m in height.

Omalanthus populifolius Bleeding Heart Shrub A generally open but leafy shrub of 2 to 4m in height. Attractive foliage – leaves turning red before falling.

Synoum glandulosum Scentless Rosewood Shrub Small attractive and leafy shrub to around 1.5 to 3m in height.

Wilkiea huegeliana Veiny Wilkiea Shrub Generally a shrub to ~2m in height with unusually stiff and leathery leaves.

Lepidosperma laterale Sedge Tufted perennial

Melaleuca thymifolia - Shrub Small shrub to around 1m in height. Very attractive purple flowers in spring / summer.

Pittosporum revolutum Rough-fruit Pittosporum Shrub To ~ 1.5m in height and generally open foliage. Attractive fruit.

Clerodendrum tomentosum Hairy Clerodendrum Shrub An attractive shrub to around 2 to 3m in height. Foliage is velvety to the touch.

Viola hederacea Ivy-leaved Violet Herb Small creeping groundcover with attractive purple & white flowers.

Cordyline stricta Narrow-leaved Palm Lily Shrub 1.5 to 5m in height. Generally an open trunk section with a leafy upper section.



Table 6: Sports precinct species list for revegetation

SPORTS PRECINCT Current Vegetation type: Coastal Foothills Spotted Gum – Ironbark Forest - Dry Variant Proposed landscaping theme: This precinct will be dominated by small shrubs with aromatic leaves and attractive white to purplish flowers (Mint Bush & Sandfly Zieria) supplemented with the Golden Guinea Flower (a beautiful climber with yellow flowers).


Hibbertia scandens Golden Guinea Flower Climber Robust scrambler with beautiful yellow flowers and fairly dense foliage.

Prostanthera incisa Mint Bush Shrub Aromatic shrub to around 2m high with purple flowers.

Zieria smithii subsp smithii Sandfly Zieria Shrub Small aromatic shrub to approx. 1m high.


Pandorea pandorana Wonga Wonga Vine Twiner A vigorous woody climber with large attractive flowering displays of white flowers in spring.

Hardenbergia violacea False Sarsaparilla Twiner An attractive twiner / scrambler with deep purple flowering racemes in spring.

Anisopogon avenaceus Oat Speargrass Grass Tall graceful grass to 1.5m.


Breynia oblongifolia Native Coffee Bush Shrub A shrub to around 2m high with fairly dense foliage.

Crinum pedunculatum Swamp Lily Herb Large perennial herb to 2m long.



Table 7: Shortland precinct species list for revegetation

SHORTLAND PRECINCT Current Vegetation Type: Coastal Foothills Spotted Gum – Ironbark Forest - Dry Variant Proposed landscaping theme: This precinct will be dominated by small Acacia shrubs (Red-stemmed Wattle, Sweet-scented Wattle & Prickly Moses) and grass trees


Acacia myrtifolia Red-stemmed Wattle Shrub Small (usually erect) shrub to 0.5 - 1m high. Foliage and stems often tinged with a red. Pale yellow flowers in late winter.

Acacia suaveolens Sweet-scented Wattle Shrub An attractive erect shrub to around 1.5m high with blue-green foliage and stems. Cream flowers in winter.

Acacia ulicifolia Prickly Moses Shrub A prickly shrub to around 1.5m high. Cream flowers in autumn / spring.

Xanthorrhoea latifolia subsp latifolia Grass Tree Grasstree An attractive plant with a short trunk at maturity and long flowering spike.


Lomandra multiflora subsp multiflora

Many-flowered Mat Rush Herb An erect grass-like herb with leaves to 0.5m long. Dense flowering heads.

Dianella revoluta var. revoluta Mauve Flax Lily Herb An erect herb to around 0.5m high and having mauve to blue flowers in spring.

Aristida vagans Threeawn Speargrass Grass A very slender grass of around 0.2 to 0.5m high.

Cymbopogon refractus Barbed Wire Grass Grass A tall wiry tufted grass to around 1m.

Dichelachne micrantha Shorthair Plumegrass Grass A graceful slender grass with a dense flowering panicle. Reaches around 0.8m high.




Table 8: South precinct species list for revegetation

SOUTH PRECINCT (CAR PARKING AREA)

Current Vegetation Type: Coastal Foothills Spotted Gum – Ironbark Forest - Dry Variant Proposed landscaping theme: This precinct will be dominated by yellow and red pea flowered shrubs (Gorse Bitter Pea & Prickly Shaggy Pea) supplemented in the understorey with native flax lilies.


Daviesia ulicifolia Gorse Bitter Pea Shrub An erect prickly shrub to approx. 1.5m high with yellow and red pea flowers.

Dianella caerulea var producta Blue Flax Lily Herb A tufted herb to around 0.7m tall. Will spread vegetatively. Blue flowers in spring / summer. Edible fruit.

Dianella revoluta var. revoluta Mauve Flax Lily Herb An erect herb to around 0.5m high and having mauve to blue flowers in spring.

Podolobium ilicifolium Prickly Shaggy Pea Shrub A spiky erect shrub to around 1.5m high with attractive yellow and red pea flowers.


Acacia falcata Falcate Wattle Shrub An erect and open shrub of 4 to 5m in height. Cream flowers in winter.

Acacia fimbriata Fringed Wattle Shrub An attractive large shrub to around 5m. Lemon–yellow flowers in winter /spring.

Acacia myrtifolia Red-stemmed Wattle Shrub Small (usually erect) shrub to 0.5 - 1m high. Foliage and stems often tinged with a red. Pale yellow flowers in late winter.

Acacia ulicifolia Prickly Moses Shrub A prickly shrub to around 1.5m high. Cream flowers in autumn / spring.

Cymbopogon refractus Barbed Wire Grass Grass A tall wiry tufted grass to around 1m.


Xanthorrhoea latifolia subsp latifolia Grass Tree Grasstree An attractive plant with a short trunk at maturity and long flowering spike.



5 Landscape infrastructure


Landscape infrastructure on campus includes a variety of outdoor seating, signs, lighting and paths.

For example, there are over thirty types of paving within the campus in external public areas. This

causes problems for replacement and maintenance, creates difficulty for way-finding, and reduces

amenity.

5.2 OBJECTIVES

There is a need to ensure infrastructure contributes to the amenity and safety of staff, students and

visitors. Landscape infrastructure should be constructed and maintained so that it complements, rather

than detracts from, the ‘bushland campus’ environment. Proposals for new landscape infrastructure

should be developed in consultation with relevant stakeholders.

5.3 RECOMMENDATIONS

5.3.1 Audit

Conduct an audit of existing infrastructure to determine:

• Type of infrastructure

• Location

• Condition

• Costs associated with ongoing maintenance

• Potential risks e.g. security, trip hazard (risk should consider the level of use, which has been

determined by Terras 2008 – Appendix M)

The audit also needs to identify gaps in existing infrastructure. For example, the Aboriginal community

has expressed a desire for a cultural immersion trail, and NUsport has indicated that there is demand

for a recreational trail (see Sections 5.3.3 and 5.3.4 below).

5.3.2 Priorities for upgrades and new infrastructure

A schedule to upgrade or replace existing infrastructure should be developed based on the results of

the audit. Priorities for upgrades should be allocated according to risk (i.e. high risk equals high

priority). Known security hotspots should be given highest priority for upgrading (e.g. south-west corner

of campus and approach to train station).

The timing for construction of new infrastructure will depend on the availability of funds, as well as

results of the design and planning process. Priorities for new trails are outlined below. Routes have not

yet been determined.

5.3.3 Aboriginal cultural immersion trail

A cultural immersion trail is proposed to be constructed between Biribahn and the Kevin McDonald

Chair (pers. com. Cheryl Newton, Senior Administrator Wollotuka Institute, 24/1/12). The precise route

needs to be identified in consultation with Facilities Management and the Wollotuka Institute, and

should consider:



• Opportunities to link with existing trails and facilities (e.g. the Don Morris Walk, which is a

priority for track remediation and weed removal)

• The need to minimise environmental impacts during construction and ongoing use (i.e. avoid

crossing topographic contours where possible to minimise soil erosion, align the trail with

existing tracks where possible to negate the need to clear vegetation)

• Use of appropriate materials for the trail and associated features (e.g. seats and signs)

The trail would feature signs to highlight Aboriginal cultural heritage e.g. history, bush food and

medicine. Information for the signs could be derived from John Maynard’s research report Whose

Traditional Land?, as well as through further consultation with the Aboriginal community. Development

of this trail should be completed in time for the 2015 anniversary of UoN.

5.3.4 Fitness trail

NUsport propose to develop a fitness trail along the route of existing tracks and paths, including

sections through bushland. The trail would enable users to travel a circuit from/to The Forum. Existing

cleared areas could feature fitness equipment.

The minimal impact design principles for the Aboriginal cultural immersion trail would also apply to the

fitness trail.

5.3.5 Treatments and materials

It is not necessary to ‘lock in’ to a particular type of infrastructure because this could result in

opportunities for improved or lower cost materials not being considered. However, landscape

infrastructure across the campus should be upgraded or maintained consistent with the following

principles for treatments and materials:

• Fit for purpose

• Have a long life

• Low maintenance

• Value for money when assessed against life-cycle costing

• Be environmentally sensitive (e.g. where possible, made from renewable or recycled sources

with low embodied energy)

The Landscape Management Plan (Terras Landscape Architects 2008) has further details and should

be referred to when designing new or replacement landscape infrastructure.



6 Construction of minor capital works


Minor capital works include activities such as trenching for pipes and installing landscape infrastructure

(e.g. seats and signage). Work activities and associated environmental impacts include:

• Digging soil (potential to damage tree roots)

• Stockpiling soil (potential for sediment runoff and soil compaction)

• Removal of vegetative groundcover (potential for soil erosion and sediment runoff)

• Changing area from a pervious to an impervious surface (change of water regime and runoff)

• Soil compaction (potential to restrict plant growth)

• Importing weed propagules via construction equipment and machinery

• Use of herbicides (potential for incorrect dosage or use in wrong areas)

• Clearing or pruning vegetation and habitat

• Use of machinery or equipment (potential for oil spill or excessive noise)

Currently, there are no guidelines in place by the UoN to protect the environment from minor

construction impacts. This means that there is a risk of environmental harm, with potential

consequences (e.g. under the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1989) for staff involved in

the works and to the university itself.

6.2 OBJECTIVES

This section provides simple environmental management guidelines for construction of minor capital

works. It is intended to provide guidance for site supervisors and staff conducting on-ground works.

This guideline does not cover major development impact assessment or management.

6.3 RECOMMENDATIONS

6.3.1 Tool-box talk

Environmental protection during on-ground works is the responsibility of the site supervisor. The

supervisor should give a ‘tool-box talk’ to staff prior to commencing on-ground works at a particular

location to identify any sensitive environmental features and any environmental controls that need to be

in place during construction. If there is uncertainty about the environmental values of an area to be

impacted (e.g. native plants or weeds?), the supervisor should contact the UoN Environmental Manager

for further information or adopt the precautionary principle. A precautionary approach requires that the

environmental values should be protected until additional information becomes available.

6.3.2 Environmental safeguards

Appropriate environmental safeguards should be discussed during the tool-box talk. Examples of

safeguards include:

• Erection of temporary sediment fence or bunds downslope or around disturbed soils to prevent

runoff carrying sediment into drainage lines. Sediment fences and bunds should be removed

once the construction area is stabilised and/or revegetated

• Do not stockpile spoil, machinery or equipment under trees within the drip-zone



• Identify exclusion or ‘no-go’ zones, such as around planted areas and bushland. If necessary,

demarcate exclusion zones by temporary flagging tape which should be removed once work is

complete

• If access is needed in vegetated areas, carry materials and equipment by hand to minimise

disturbance along the access route

• Prune rather than remove vegetation to allow access

• Do not undertake work during heavy rain because of the risk of runoff/sedimentation

• Maintain equipment and machinery in good working order; undertake repairs in areas away

from vegetation and waterways

Further information is available regarding soil and water management from the Landcom ‘Blue Book’

(Managing Urban Stormwater: Soils and Construction 2004).



7 Sports oval management


Newcastle University Sport (NUsport) is an incorporated body of the UoN which is charged with the

development of sport and fitness through services, facilities and activities. These facilities include The

Forum, squash and tennis courts, rowing pavilion, and sporting ovals (Figure 2). NUsport also

coordinates and supports sporting clubs and bodies associated with the UoN.

NUsport receives income from the use of the sports ovals and the Forum, then pays a lease to the

university. The ovals are maintained by a contractor engaged and funded by the university.

During peak periods (during semester from 4.30 pm - 8.30 pm on weekdays, plus weekends) the ovals

are at capacity. Current use of sports ovals includes:

• Ray Watt Oval - soccer and cricket (Newcastle Jets train on this oval)

• University No.1 Oval – cricket and rugby (plus adjacent squash pavilion and six tennis courts

which will be removed to allow for development of new accommodation buildings)

• University No.2 Oval – rugby league and soccer

• University No.3 Oval – baseball, softball, rugby league and soccer (Newcastle Knights train on

this oval)

• University No.4 Oval is not managed by NUsport and is not currently used for organised sport

or fitness activities

• University No.5 Oval requires upgrading / remediation

7.2 OBJECTIVES

The UoN needs to maintain sufficient sports ovals at high standard, suitable for a range of intended

uses. Use of resources should be more environmentally sustainable, particularly water for irrigation.

Amenity of spectators should be enhanced.

7.3 RECOMMENDATIONS

7.3.1 Oval maintenance

Sports ovals will continue to be maintained by a contractor who has expertise in this type of landscape

management. This approach has worked well in recent years. To assist the contractor maintain the

ovals to a high standard, the university should consider upgrading grounds maintenance equipment. An

audit of the type and condition of existing equipment is needed to determine priorities for future

investment.

7.3.2 Irrigation

One of the goals of the UoN 2011-2013 Environmental Sustainability Policy is to ‘adopt further water

sensitive urban design practices to minimise potable water consumption’. It recommends that current

irrigation practices for the sports ovals are reviewed to identify water efficiency and drought proofing

strategies. This could include:

• Harvesting stormwater from nearby buildings for irrigation of ovals, and/or

• Use of sub-surface irrigation to achieve significant reductions in water use



As well as addressing the requirements of the Sustainability Policy, improved irrigation practices may

have long term financial benefits as the cost of potable water is likely to rise.

7.3.3 Perimeter treatments

There is a need to improve amenity of the perimeter of ovals by providing adequate shade trees and

seating.

Table 6 lists shrubs and groundcovers that are recommended for use in landscaping within the sports

precinct (e.g. around buildings and carparks). Trees need to be planted at various locations around the

perimeter of sports ovals to improve shade for spectators. Suitable species include:

• Corymbia maculata (spotted gum) which grows 25 m high and 10 m wide

• Lophostemon confertus (brush box) which grows to 15 m high and 10 m wide

• Waterhousia floribunda which grows 15 m high and 10 m wide

Trees should be positioned so that their canopy will not overhang the oval itself and cause grass

dieback. Saplings should be protected by temporary barriers (e.g. wooden stakes) and watered

regularly until established.

The row of trees on Oval 4 needs to be thinned or removed to improve the oval’s functionality. The

Aboriginal community needs to be consulted prior to removal of these trees because of the relationship

with Birabahn.

Bench seats need to be installed on the perimeter of ovals to improve amenity for spectators; some

seats should be installed beneath shade trees, some in areas that will receive full sun. Priority should

be given to providing seating adjacent ovals that experience the greatest numbers of spectators.

7.3.4 Expansion of facilities

Demand for sports facilities continues to grow and the available ovals are reaching capacity, particularly

during peak periods. To cater for increasing demand, the university should:

• Investigate use of Oval 4 for social sports and personal training – this would suit people who

may not have time or inclination to travel to the northern parts of the campus where the current

ovals and The Forum are located

• Investigate use of Oval 5 as a sports oval – consideration should be given to what types of

sports it would cater for given its smaller size and irregular shape



Figure 2: Sports ovals



8 Biodiversity offsets management


UoN’s Callaghan Campus covers an area of approximately 140 ha of which approximately 25 ha

retains remnant native bushland and wetlands that have been identified as having high local

conservation value (Ecobiological 2011). The university is currently going through a growth phase

with proposed additions to the Medical Science Building, NIER building and student accommodation.

Each of these projects will have varying degrees of environmental impact; requiring removal of a few

to over 100 native trees.

8.2 OBJECTIVES

A strategy is needed to assist the UoN to:

• Negotiate requirements with planning authorities such as Newcastle City Council to offset

potential vegetation losses associated with development within the campus

• Understand how the offset area should be established and managed in perpetuity

8.3 BIODIVERSITY OFFSETS

Biodiversity offsets refer to actions taken outside of a development site to compensate for the direct

and indirect effects of that development on native vegetation and biodiversity. Offsetting is a practical

tool for decision makers allowing them to balance the relative environmental, social and economic

merits of development proposals under the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A

Act). If used strategically, offsetting can lead to maintenance of environmental viability, an overall net

improvement in environmental viability across a region, a net gain in vegetation cover and / or an

additional level of security for vegetation that is currently not protected.

There is no mandatory legislative requirement to provide biodiversity offsets, however, they may be

triggered at either the local (Newcastle City Council LEP, DCP and bushland protection policies

including tree preservation orders), State (EPA Act 1979 and Threatened Species Conservation Act

1995) and in some instances the Commonwealth level (Environment Protection & Biodiversity

Conservation Act 1992). Landowners/managers like the UoN may adopt offset policies that are

outside of any legislative requirement to provide offsets as a demonstration of their commitment to the

environment.

It is understood that the UoN Council has made a commitment to implement best practice in native

vegetation management via the Environmental Sustainability Policy 2011. This policy includes a

commitment to provide offsets for impacts to native vegetation. Offsets have also been required by

Newcastle City Council for loss of trees on campus as part of conditions of approval and may, subject

to more detailed environmental impact assessments of larger projects, be required by State/Federal

agencies to offset impacts to areas of native vegetation.



8.4 RECOMMENDATIONS

8.4.1 Scope of the offsetting strategy

Under the Environmental Sustainability Policy 2011, UoN must assess the environmental impact of all

of its activities. The University must seek to avoid, minimise and mitigate these impacts, even if the

works do not have a ‘significant impact’ (see definition below). The following offsetting strategy

provides a systematic and consistent method of mitigating and offsetting the biodiversity related

impacts of the University’s operations, consistent with the offsetting principles in Appendix A. The

strategy can be expanded to include more significant impacts if these are likely in the context of future

growth.

8.4.2 Definition – significant impact

In broad terms, a ‘significant impact’ can be considered to be any form of development, activity, or

undertaking, which may, or which is likely to, place threatened species, populations, ecological

communities, or their habitats, at risk of extinction in that locality, as defined under relevant

assessment processes. Indirect as well as direct impacts need to be considered.

The relevant assessment processes are subject to change, but currently include the ‘Assessment of

Significance’ (or 7-part test) under s.5A of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979

(EP&A Act), for threatened species, populations or ecological communities listed under the

Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act) or the Fisheries Management Act 1994

(FM Act). Proposals assessed under Part 4 and Part 5 of the EP&A Act which trigger a ‘significant

impact’ require the preparation of a Species Impact Statement (SIS), and usually require negotiation

with the Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) on suitable outcomes, which may include offsets.

Activities causing a ‘significant impact’ also include those which will cause a significant effect upon

matters of national environmental significance (MNES) under the Commonwealth Environment

Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act). The grey-headed flying-fox, which has

been recorded on campus, is a MNES.

Offsetting strategies for activities that result in a ‘significant impact’ will primarily be negotiated with

government authorities through the legal planning process. For this reason, such proposals are not

currently included under this offset strategy.

8.4.3 Offsetting rationale

The UoN undertakes activities ranging from impacts to individual trees in routine maintenance

operations to larger impacts associated with development of new buildings.

Due to the need to cluster buildings in precincts to facilitate teaching disciplines, completely avoiding

impacts sometimes cannot be achieved. Nevertheless, the following hierarchy of controls should be

utilised, with avoidance and mitigation of impacts sought wherever possible:

• Avoid – where possible the UoN will seek alternatives to proposed development or

maintenance activities that will result in a negative ecological impact (i.e. redesigning the

proposal, or choosing an alternative site).

• Mitigate – where is it not possible to avoid a negative ecological impact, control measures will

be employed to minimise the impact, e.g. management of stormwater runoff.

• Offset – where negative impacts will occur after all avoidance options to have been

considered, offsetting shall be used in conjunction with mitigation measures.



Offsetting shall aim to offset all negative impacts associated with vegetation removal for maintenance

and development activities.

8.4.4 Environmental impact assessment

Ecosystem approach

The UoN recognises the value of ecosystems; meaning a community of living organisms, the

environment in which they live, and the interaction between the living and non-living components to

form a functional ecosystem. For example, whilst trees have intrinsic value, they may also support a

wide range of other plants, animals and micro-organisms.

Therefore, it is important to assess all areas on an individual basis, due to variability and differences

between sites. It is important that assessments be carried out by a competent environment officer,

prior to activities, in order to determine their biodiversity values. Specific trees being considered for

removal during normal maintenance should be assessed for risks to infrastructure and human safety

by a qualified arborist.

Impact assessment

The magnitude of the UoN’s environmental impacts on biodiversity range from the disturbance of a

single tree during routine maintenance works to significant impacts on native flora and fauna, which

occur during larger capital works programs.

All of the University’s activities should be assessed within the environmental impact assessment

framework (Figure 3).

For the purpose of determining options for offsetting pathways, biodiversity impacts have been

categorised into the following three types:

• Minor impacts – Very small to small impacts, usually associated with approved maintenance

works, such as removal of an individual ‘at risk’ trees within the campus

• Moderate impacts – Larger scale impacts that are not considered to be significant e.g.

removal of vegetation associated with minor building expansion or access roads

• Major impacts – Activities resulting in ‘significant impact’ as defined by section 5A of the

EP&A Act

Minor and moderate impacts, as illustrated within Figure 3 are addressed within this strategy. Major

impacts are not currently addressed in this strategy and offsets shall be negotiated with approving

authorities.



Project or

maintenance activity

Environmental impact

assessment (EIA

Framework)

‘Significant impact’ triggered ‘Significant impact’ is not triggered

Major impact Moderate impact Minor impact

Negotiate offset with

approving authorities Apply this offsetting strategy

Figure 3: EIA framework



8.4.5 Offsetting key

The following key can be used to determine the appropriate offsetting option in Table 9.

1. Will the activity involve pruning or removing vegetation fully within approved vegetation clearance guidelines (refer to Section 3)? If yes, undertake works as per approval conditions (no offset required) If no, continue to question 2

2. Will there be a ‘significant impact’ on threatened species, populations, ecological communities, or their habitats?

If yes, this offset policy does not apply - negotiate directly with relevant approval agencies.

If no, continue to question 3

3. Will the activity impact on a vegetation community that forms part of a vulnerable, endangered, or critically endangered ecological community (i.e. threatened vegetation)? If yes, go to item 1 in Table 9 If no, continue to question 4

4. Will the activity impact on a threatened flora population or species? If yes, go to item 2 in Table 9 If no, continue to question 5

5. Will the activity impact on remnant native vegetation? If yes, go to item 3 in Table 9 If no, continue to question 6

6. Will the activity result in the removal of native trees? If the activity is tree pruning rather than tree removal, go to minor offset options in item 4 in Table 9

If yes, go to item 4 in Table 9 If no, continue to question 7

7. Will the activity result in the pruning or removal of exotic vegetation and weeds? If the activity is pruning, rather than removal, go to minor offset options in item 5 in Table 9

If yes, go to item 5 in Table 9 If no, continue to question 8

8. Will the activity impact on vegetation fringing or within a watercourse, lake, wetland, or other body of water? If yes, go to item 6 in Table 9 If no, continue to question 9

9. Will the activity impact on a cleared area with no flora or fauna values? No offset is required. Cleared areas with fauna habitat value are not addressed by this strategy and will be considered on a case by case basis.

In the following table, BRB refers to a bush regeneration budget administered by UoN to support

biodiversity offsets.



Table 9: Offsetting (to be read with key in Section 8.4.5)

Ecological loss

resulting from

activity

Questions Mitigation Measures

Offset Options

Minor

(i.e. no to all questions)

Moderate

(i.e. yes to 1 or > questions)

This column identifies

the potential ecological

loss.

This column provides a list

of questions designed to

determine the degree of

ecological impact and

appropriate offset (minor

or major) for that value,

e.g. are there hollows

present in trees?

This column provides

guidance to university

personnel on appropriate

control measures designed

to mitigate the impacts,

e.g. minimise loss of fauna

during clearing activities

Additional mitigation

measures may also be

outlined in EIA documents

Minor impacts are identified by answering

no to the entire ‘Questions’ column.

For minor impact levels, this column

identifies appropriate offset pathways, e.g.

create a buffer zone around remaining

vegetation

Moderate impacts are identified by answering yes to

one or more of the questions in the ‘Questions’

column.

For moderate impact levels, this column identifies

appropriate offset pathways, e.g. contribute to a BRB

On and off site options are provided, however on site

rehabilitation is the preferred offsetting option, where it

is possible

1. Threatened

Vegetation

Vegetation

communities that are

listed as critically

endangered,

endangered, or

vulnerable

1. Of the main body of

vegetation to be cleared

does the threatened

vegetation being removed

account for 10% or more

of the canopy cover?

2. Will any remaining

threatened vegetation

become isolated from a

main vegetation body?

3. Is there potential that

the threatened vegetation

would be used by one or

more threatened fauna

species for:

• Shelter

• Breeding

Seek an alternative

location and/or modify the

activity to minimise

impacts

Ongoing bush

regeneration and weed

control

Minimise loss of fauna


Community liaison where

appropriate

1. Where possible:

Undertake bush regeneration and

targeted weed removal of the disturbed

area for a minimum of 2 years AND

Regeneration to increase the area of

threatened vegetation by at least 20%,

using relevant species from the

threatened vegetation affected, with

regeneration located (where possible) to

provide a buffer effect AND

Contribute $10/m2 of threatened

vegetation that will be disturbed to the

BRB to rehabilitate land supporting the

same threatened vegetation

OR

2. If the above is not possible, contribute

1. Where possible:

Undertake bush regeneration using locally native

species and targeted weed removal of the disturbed


Regeneration to increase the area of threatened

vegetation by at least 50%, using relevant species

from the threatened vegetation affected, with

regeneration located (where possible) to provide a

buffer effect AND

Contribute $20/m2 of threatened vegetation that will

be disturbed to the BRB to rehabilitate land

supporting the same threatened vegetation AND

If the tree contained hollows, then install 3 or more

nest boxes for each tree hollow removed in adjacent

trees (or nearby areas) or on posts

OR



Ecological loss

resulting from

activity


Offset Options

Minor


Moderate


$20/m2 of threatened vegetation

community that will be disturbed to the

BRB

2. If the above is not possible, contribute $30/m2 of

threatened vegetation community that will be disturbed

to the BRB to rehabilitate land supporting the same

threatened vegetation community

2. Threatened Flora

Known threatened

flora species, and

habitat


vegetation, does the

threatened flora habitat

being removed account for

10% or more of the extent

or estimated population

size of the threatened

species or population?


threatened flora habitat

become isolated from a

main vegetation body?


the area would be used by

one or more threatened

fauna species for:

• Shelter

• Breeding

Seek an alternative



impacts

Ongoing bush

regeneration




appropriate

1. Where possible:

Undertake bush regeneration using

locally native species and targeted weed

removal of the disturbed area for a

minimum of 2 years AND

Regeneration to increase the area of

threatened flora habitat by at least 20%,

using relevant species from the

threatened vegetation affected, with

regeneration located (where possible) to

provide a buffer effect AND

Contribute $10/m2 of threatened flora

habitat that will be disturbed to the BRB

to rehabilitate land supporting the same

threatened species

OR


$20/m2 of threatened flora habitat to the

BRB

1. Where possible:




Regeneration to increase the area of threatened

flora habitat by at least 40%, using relevant species

from the threatened vegetation affected, with

regeneration located (where possible) to provide a

buffer effect AND

Contribute $20/m2 of threatened flora habitat that will

be disturbed to the BRB to rehabilitate land

supporting the same threatened species AND




OR


threatened flora habitat to the BRB to rehabilitate land

supporting the same threatened flora habitat



Ecological loss

resulting from

activity


Offset Options

Minor


Moderate


3. Remnant Native

Vegetation

Native vegetation

community

(i.e. not supporting any

threatened species,

populations or

vulnerable,

endangered, or

critically endangered

vegetation

communities

addressed in table

sections 2-3)


vegetation, does the native

vegetation being removed

account for 20% or more

of the canopy cover?


native vegetation become

isolated from a main

vegetation body?




fauna species for:

• Shelter

• Breeding

Seek an alternative



impacts

Ongoing bush

regeneration/ weed control



1. Where possible:

Undertake bush regeneration over the

entire remnant (including the disturbed

areas) for a 2 year period to encourage

rehabilitation of the site, using locally

native species. Ensure that all weed

species are targeted during the period

AND

Contribute $10/m2 of native vegetation

community that will be disturbed to the

BRB

OR


$15/m2 of native vegetation community

that will be disturbed to the BRB

1. Where possible:

Undertake bush regeneration over the entire

remnant (including the disturbed areas) for a 2 year

period to encourage rehabilitation of the site, using

locally native species. Ensure that all weed species

are targeted during the period AND

Contribute $15/m2 of the native vegetation

community that will be disturbed to the BRB AND




OR


native vegetation community that will be disturbed to

the BRB

4. Native tree

removal

NOTE: For tree pruning go

to ‘Minor’ column.

Tree Removal Questions:


the locally native tree

would be used by one or

more threatened fauna

species for:

• Shelter

• Breeding

Limit tree removal to that

required



Notification when

impacting immediate

neighbour (i.e. loss of

amenity)


appropriate

Pruning

1. No offset is required for minor pruning

of foliage only that does not affect the

continued health of the locally native tree

(i.e. pruning is not of the trunk or primary

branches of the tree)

UNLESS

2. For pruning of primary branches or tree

trunk – contribute $100 to the BRB for

each locally native tree pruned in this

manner

Tree Removal

1. Where possible:

Regeneration required in the same area (at least

50m2 for each locally native tree removed), using

locally native tree, shrub and ground cover species

AND

Contribute $300 to the BRB for each locally native

tree removed AND





Ecological loss

resulting from

activity


Offset Options

Minor


Moderate


2. Is there a hollow

present?

3. Is the locally native tree

removal likely to generate

neighbour or community

complaints?

Tree Removal

1. Contribute $300 to the BRB for each

locally native tree removed


OR

2. If regeneration is not an option:

If the locally native tree contained hollows, then

install 3 or more nest boxes for each tree hollow

removed in adjacent trees or on posts AND

Contribute $1,000 to the BRB for each locally native

tree removed

Note: where trees provide screening or shade to neighbours appropriate mitigation measures shall

be agreed in consultation with the neighbours

5. Exotic Vegetation

and Weeds

Areas that are exotic

vegetation and weeds




fauna species for:

• Shelter

• Breeding

Ongoing weed

maintenance



If “yes” for question 1 and

the area is more than

200m2, then weed removal

needs to be staged to

allow an area to be

revegetated

1. No offset necessary 1. Where possible, revegetate the area where exotic

vegetation or weed infestation has been (if the site is

identified in the BMP as a suitable regeneration site),

using appropriate native species as per LMP

OR

2. If the area cannot be revegetated, i.e. has been

replaced with infrastructure, or is identified for an

alternative vegetation management strategy in the

BMP, contribute $10/m2 of exotic or weed vegetation

cleared to the BRB

6. Watercourse

Vegetation

Vegetation fringing or

within a watercourse,



one or more species,

populations or ecological

Sediment and erosion

controls, i.e. runoff and

bank stability

Stormwater runoff controls

1. Where possible, regeneration of

disturbed vegetation for a 2 year period

OR


1. Where possible:






Ecological loss

resulting from

activity


Offset Options

Minor


Moderate


lake, wetland, or other

body of water

communities listed under

the NSW Fisheries

Management Act?




fauna species for:

• Shelter

• Breeding

3. Will the activity cause

alterations to hydrological

regimes?

Ongoing weed control/

bush regeneration


appropriate

$20/m2 of vegetation community that will

be disturbed to the BRB

Contribute $20/m2 of the disturbed vegetation to the

BRB

OR

2. If not practical in the same area, use a nearby area

on the same watercourse for the above regeneration

activities, this can either be on or off the corridor AND

Contribute $20/m2 of the disturbed vegetation to the

BRB

OR


vegetation community that will be disturbed to the BRB

If ‘yes’ to Question 1 –

Impacts to aquatic flora and fauna associated with works within a watercourse are to be assessed

separately by a suitably qualified person for offset options. These should be decided on a case by

case basis.

Should there be impacts on fauna species or estuarine vegetation, e.g. mangroves or saltmarsh,

then input from a qualified aquatic ecologist should be considered.

Note 1: Monetary values expressed within this table are valid for the 2012 calendar year. Offsets provided in subsequent years will be subject to Consumer Price Index (CPI) values. The

monetary figures expressed in this table will be reviewed periodically by the Biodiversity Specialist to reflect current pricing and suitability.

Note 2: In some instances offset contributions may go to the local council to rehabilitate land supporting the same biodiversity values affected by the university activity (e.g. threatened

species, threatened vegetation). Should this occur, it will replace, and be to the same value, as the contribution that would have been made to the BRB. Any such contribution to a local

council should be for biodiversity management works in addition to already allocated council funding.



8.4.6 Offset area

The university has identified an area within campus that will be used to receive biodiversity offsets

(shown in Figure 1). This land will be protected in perpetuity by a section 88 covenant on the land title

certificate/s under the NSW Conveyancing Act 1919. Rehabilitation work within this area will be funded

on an ongoing basis through the UoN’s bush regeneration budget.

The covenant will describe the offset and refer to an approved stand-alone management plan that

needs to be prepared using information from the action tables in Section 9. The management plan will

indicate how to rehabilitate the offset area using weed control, natural regeneration and revegetation. It

will set requirements for annual performance reporting.

A plan showing the offset area, with dimensions, in relation to cadastre will need to be appended to the

covenant.

The covenant needs to be made in favour of Newcastle City Council and the draft covenant will need to

be negotiated with Council. UoN will sign the covenant as the proponent, and other authorities may

also need to sign if they have relevant land tenure. A solicitor acting on behalf of UoN will lodge the

completed covenant with NSW Land and Property Information to register the covenant on title.

8.5 OTHER OPTIONS FOR OFFSETTING

Other options available for offsetting include purchasing and/or dedicating suitable land off campus for

conservation (including at the Ourimbah and/or Port Macquarie campuses), or purchasing

environmental services provided by others (e.g. Biobanking credits). Biobanking is now OEH’s

preferred method of calculating offset requirements and securing offsets on both private and public

land. These options would need to be investigated further if significant additional new development is

proposed on campus.



9 Bushland management


Ecobiological (2011) conducted a comprehensive study of the ecological values of Callaghan Campus.

The campus has good to moderate quality habitat supporting:

• 188 native flora species

• 30 introduced flora species

• 116 bird species (including five introduced species)

• 14 native mammal species

• 11 frog species

• 18 reptile species

• The following vegetation communities:

o Coastal Foothills Spotted Gum-Ironbark Forest (dry forest variant and wet forest

variant), which is found on the sheltered slopes and ridges

o Riparian Closed Forest, which is found in the gullies and characterised by a diversity

of mesic species in the mid and lower stratum with a high foliage cover

o Freshwater Wetlands

Four threatened fauna species have been recorded on campus:

• Little Lorikeet

• Little Eagle

• Varied Sittella

• Grey-headed Flying Fox

A further thirteen threatened species may occur on the campus due to the presence of suitable habitat.

Up to 25 migratory bird species may also occur on the campus due to the close proximity of nationally

significant Hunter Estuary Wetlands to the north.

In addition to its ecological value, bushland areas contribute significantly to the amenity and character of

the Callaghan Campus. However, bushland areas are subject to weed invasion, habitat clearing,

rubbish and other degrading factors.

9.2 OBJECTIVES

This section provides the UoN guidance on how to maintain the ecological integrity and amenity of

bushland areas within the campus, using best practice bush regeneration techniques.

9.3 RECOMMENDATIONS

To guide this process and facilitate initial management of the area, overarching recommendations for

the bushland areas are provided below with bush regeneration Action Plans for management zones

identified by Ecobiological (2011). The plans include results of a short site assessment and refer to

information in the Ecological Conservation Zone Report (Ecobiological 2011).



It is noted that the hours suggested in the following sections are intended to provide guidance only and

are accurate for a period of up to summer 2012-2013. If works commence beyond this time, due to

weed growth potential, the information should be used as a guide with some reassessment likely to be

necessary.

9.3.1 Overarching recommendations

• To maximise resources and if funding permits, a bushland management team of four should be

employed, including a co-ordinator / supervisor, two experienced bushland regenerators and a

trainee. All team members should be suitably qualified, having completed or be undertaking

Certificate III in Conservation and Land Management or equivalent as a minimum.

• Facilities Management should pursue opportunities to secure funding to undertake works, such

as from the Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority. Opportunities for actively

involving the Callaghan student and staff body in the management of bushland should also be

investigated.

• Mowing should be excluded from areas with a native canopy adjacent to bushland (where

practicable i.e. beyond fire / hazard reduction zones). This will facilitate the natural

regeneration of native trees and shrubs in such areas, which will provide a buffer to core

bushland areas. Similarly, landscaped areas adjacent to bushland should be planted with

locally indigenous species for relevant vegetation communities (Figure 4 and Appendix B).

• Additional to the target weed species recognised in the Ecobiological (2011) report (Table 10)

several other species were identified as being of similar high importance to control within each

of the specific management zones. If these species were not also targeted during any

proposed weed management works, it would be highly likely that the species would become

problematic. As such, the weed species presented within the following Action Plans for each

zone will need to be controlled as a complete unit.

9.3.2 Funding and priorities

• Based on current fees (February 2012) a team of four experienced bushland regenerators

(including supervisor) used on a contract basis would cost in the vicinity of $1,200 to $1,400 per

eight hour day. These rates are dependent on various factors, including the experience of the

team members, use of herbicides and specialist equipment (e.g. splatter gun, backpack

sprayer).

• If only partial funding is available, the areas (zones) which have secured funding will need to

have works prioritised as follows:

o Ongoing funding commitment to managing ‘in perpetuity’ biodiversity offset area

(shown in Figure 4 – minimum funds for this area should be provided via the bush

regeneration budget administered by UoN (refer to Section 8 for further details))

o Other priorities for rehabilitation to be allocated as per zone Action Plans.

o Alternatively, if funding is sourced for bushland management purposes for no

specific zone, then zones containing the most intact remnant vegetation

communities should be targeted as a priority (i.e. zones 1, 2B, 4, 6, 8, 10). These

zones will benefit to a higher degree than other more highly degraded areas, if

limited funding is available. Wetland 2 should also be given priority in regard to the

initial removal and control of canopy smothering climbers such as Morning Glory /

Coastal Morning Glory.



Figure 4: Bushland management zones (adapted from Ecobiological 2011)



9.3.3 Action Plan - Zone 1

• As indicated in the tables below, target weeds for Zone 1 should be treated on a timeframe as per the recommendations.

• Tradescantia fluminensis (Wandering Jew) in this zone should be managed with the long-term goal of confining it to areas where it is

currently growing very densely (i.e. at over 50% density). Within these dense patches, T. fluminensis should be treated within one

metre of all native vegetation, excluding trees and shrubs over five centimetre diameter at breast height (DBH). To conserve

resources, such treatment should involve raking or pulling T. fluminensis away from native vegetation and ensuring that no stem

fragments remain. All treated T. fluminensis can be discarded in adjacent dense T. fluminensis, away from native vegetation.

• Planting of locally indigenous tubestock should be undertaken in various locations, including at the top of the catchment of the

watercourse, near University entrance. Plantings should include a combination of trees, shrubs and groundcover species suitable to

the vegetation community type (refer to Figure 4 and Appendix B). Higher proportions of shrubs and groundcovers are

recommended an overall ratio of 1(trees) - 2(shrubs) - 4(groundcovers).

• Mowing should be excluded from within two metres of watercourse, and suitable rushes and sedges should ideally be planted in this

area for continuous appropriate native vegetative cover along the riparian zone.

Zone 1

Zone 1 target weeds

SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME CURRENT

DENSITY

TARGET

DENSITY

(1yr)

TARGET

DENSITY

(3yrs)

TARGET

DENSITY

(10yrs)

Acetosa sagittata Turkey Rhubarb < 5% 1% < 1% < 1%

Ageratina adenophora Crofton Weed 10 - 15% < 5% 5% 0%

Araujia sericifera Moth Vine < 5% < 1% < 1% 0%

Asparagus aethiopicus Asparagus Fern < 5% 1% < 1% < 1%

Cinnamomum camphora Camphor Laurel < 5% < 1% < 1% 0%

Cestrum parqui Green Cestrum < 5% < 1% < 1% 0%

Ipomoea cairica Coastal Morning Glory 20 - 25% < 5% < 1% < 1%

Lantana camara Lantana 15 - 20% < 3% 1% < 1%

Lonicera japonica Japanese Honeysuckle < 5% 1% < 1% 0%

Rubus fruticosus Blackberry < 5% 1% < 1% 0%

Salix sp. Willow < 5% < 1% 0% 0%

Senna pendula var. glabra Senna < 5% 1% < 1% < 1%

Tradescantia fluminensis Wandering Jew 5 - 10% < 5% < 5% < 1%

Triadica sebifera Chinese Tallowwood < 5% < 1% 0% 0%

Person days and planting recommended for Zone 1

WEED CONTROL (person days) PLANTING

YEAR TOP END

(west)

MIDDLE

SECTION

BOTTOM END

(east)

TOTAL

DAYS Days Plants

Year 1 12 8 12 2 250 34

Year 2 12 8 12 2 250 34

Year 3 6 4 6 2 250 18

Year 4 4 4 4 12

Year 5 2 2 2 6

Year 6 2 1 2 5

Year 7 1 1 1 3

Year 8 1 1 1 3

Year 9 2 2

Year 10 2 2

Totals 750 118




• This zone consists of two disjunct patches, Zone 2A in the west and Zone 2B in the east.

• As indicated in the tables below, target weeds for Zone 2 should be treated on a timeframe as per the

recommendations.

• Dense stands of Lantana camara (Lantana) in Zone 2B should be treated in a mosaic pattern during three

years of primary weed control.

• A buffer approximately two metres wide should be created along all edges of Zone 2B within which no L.

camara is treated. Other target species, particularly Ipomoea cairica (Coastal Morning Glory), should be

treated within the buffer. The buffer will act as a physical barrier to wind-borne weed seeds and should

remain in place for a minimum of four years so that native vegetation has a chance to regenerate after

primary weed control is completed.

• Plantings of appropriate species (refer to Figure 4 and Appendix B) should be undertaken at stormwater

entry points in Zone 2B, and in the south-west corner of Zone 2A, where there is a large gap in the canopy.

Estimate 20 – 30 local provenance native species - combination of both shrubs and tree species.

Zone 2A

Zone 2B

Zones 2A & 2B target weeds

SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME

CURRENT

DENSITY

(ZONE 2A)

TARGET

DENSITY

(1yr)

TARGET

DENSITY

(3yrs)

TARGET

DENSITY

(10yrs

ZONE 2A)

CURRENT

DENSITY

(ZONE 2B)

TARGET

DENSITY

(1yr)

TARGET

DENSITY

(3yrs)

TARGET

DENSITY

(10yrs ZONE

2B)

Ageratina adenophora Crofton Weed - - - - 5 - 10% < 3% <1% 0%

Asparagus aethiopicus Asparagus Fern < 5% 1% <1% < 1% < 5% 1% <1% < 1%

Cinnamomum camphora Camphor Laurel - - - - < 5% 1% <1% 0%

Erythrina X sykesii Coral Tree < 5% 1% <1% 0% - - - -

Ipomoea cairica Coastal Morning Glory - - - - 5 - 10% 3% 1% < 1%

Lantana camara Lantana < 5% 1% <1% < 1% 20 - 25% 5% < 3% < 1%

Ligustrum lucidum Large-leaved Privet < 5% 1% <1% 0% < 5% 1% <1% 0%

Ligustrum sinense Small-leaved Privet - - - - < 5% 2% < 1% < 1%

Ochna serrulata Mickey Mouse Plant - - - - < 5% <2% < 1% < 1%

Ricinus communis Castor Oil Plant - - - - < 5% < 2% < 1% 0%

Rubus fruticosus Blackberry - - - - < 5% < 2% 1% < 1%

Senna pendula var. glabra Senna - - - - < 5% < 2% <1% 0%

Person days and planting recommended for Zone 2

WEED CONTROL (person

days) PLANTING

YEAR ZONE 2A ZONE 2B TOTAL

DAYS Days Plants

Year 1 2 20 22

Year 2 2 20 22

Year 3 1 12 1 50 15

Year 4 1 12 0.5 25 13.5

Year 5 0.5 4 0.5 25 5

Year 6 0.5 4 0.5 25 5

Year 7 2 2

Year 8 2 2

Year 9 1 1

Year 10 1 1

Totals 125 88.5




• A small patch of Acetosa sagittata (Turkey Rhubarb) was recorded to the east of Architecture Bridge, on the northern side of the

creek. The entire zone should be inspected for this species and all infestations controlled as a priority.

• As indicated in the tables below, remaining target weeds for Zone 3 should be treated on a timeframe as per the recommendations.

• After controlling A. sagittata infestations, works should commence from the west of Architecture Bridge until the primary weed control

is completed in this section.

• Dense stands of L. camara in this zone should be treated in a mosaic pattern during three years of primary weed control, or via a

splatter gun in areas where there is no chance of incidental damage (overspray) to native vegetation.

• T. fluminensis in this zone should be managed with the long-term goal of confining it to areas where it is currently growing very

densely (i.e. at over 50% density). Treatment of T. fluminensis in such areas is detailed in Zone 1 recommendations.

• A buffer approximately two metres wide should be created along all edges of this zone within which no L. camara is treated, as

detailed in Zone 2 recommendations.

Zone 3

Zone 3 target weeds


DENSITY

TARGET

DENSITY

(1yr)

TARGET

DENSITY

(3yrs)

TARGET

DENSITY

(10yrs)

Acetosa sagittata Turkey Rhubarb < 5% 1% < 1% < 1%

Ageratina adenophora Crofton Weed < 5% < 5% 5% 0%



Cestrum parqui Green Cestrum < 5% < 1% < 1% 0%


Ligustrum lucidum Large-leaved Privet < 5% <1% <1% 0%

Ligustrum sinense Small-leaved Privet < 5% < 2% 1% <1%

Lonicera japonica Japanese Honeysuckle < 5% 1% < 1% 0%

Ochna serrulata Mickey Mouse Plant < 5% <1% <1% 0%

Senna pendula var. glabra Senna < 5% 1% < 1% 0%


Person days for weed control recommended for Zone 3

YEAR WEST OF BRIDGE EAST OF BRIDGE TOTAL

Year 1 4 - 4

Year 2 4 - 4

Year 3 2 20 22

Year 4 2 20 22

Year 5 1 20 21

Year 6 1 8 9

Year 7 1 8 9

Year 8 2 2

Year 9 2 2

Year 10 2 2

Total 97





• Works should commence to the east of the creek until the primary weed control is completed in this section.


splatter gun in areas where there is no chance of incidental (over spray) damage to native vegetation.

• A buffer approximately two metres wide should be created along all edges of Zone 4 within which no L. camara is treated, as

detailed in Zone 2 recommendations. This L. camara buffer area should be treated once all other sections within the zone are

controlled.

Zone 4

Zone 4 target weeds


DENSITY

TARGET

DENSITY

(1yr)

TARGET

DENSITY

(3yrs)

TARGET

DENSITY

(10yrs)

Ageratina adenophora Crofton Weed < 5% < 2% <1% 0%



Cortaderia selloana Pampas Grass < 5% < 1% < 1% 0%





Rubus fruticosus Blackberry < 5% <1% <1% 0%


Solanum mauritianum Wild Tobacco < 5% 1% < 1% 0%


YEAR EAST OF CREEK WEST OF CREEK TOTAL

Year 1 10 - 10

Year 2 10 - 10

Year 3 4 20 24

Year 4 4 20 24

Year 5 1 20 21

Year 6 1 8 9

Year 7 1 8 9

Year 8 2 2

Year 9 2 2

Year 10 2 2

Total 137




• The entire zone should be inspected for Acetosa sagittata and all infestations controlled as a priority.



splatter gun in areas where there is no chance of incidental damage to native vegetation.


densely (ie at over 50% density). Treatment of T. fluminensis in such areas is detailed in Zone 1 recommendations.



Zone 5

Zone 5 target weeds


DENSITY

TARGET

DENSITY

(1yr)

TARGET

DENSITY

(3yrs)

TARGET

DENSITY

(10yrs)

Ageratina adenophora Crofton Weed < 5% < 2% <1% 0%

Lantana camara Lantana 50 - 75% <10% <5% < 1%


Ricinus communis Castor Oil Plant < 5% <1% <1% 0%

Solanum mauritianum Wild Tobacco < 5% 1% < 1% 0%

Tradescantia fluminensis Wandering Jew 10 - 15% <10% <5% <5%


YEAR ZONE 5

Year 1 20

Year 2 20

Year 3 20

Year 4 12

Year 5 12

Year 6 4

Year 7 4

Year 8 1

Year 9 1

Year 10 1

Total 95






splatter gun in areas where there is no chance of incidental damage to native vegetation.


densely (ie at over 50% density). Treatment of T. fluminensis in such areas is detailed in Zone 1 recommendations.



• Plantings of appropriate species (refer to Figure 4 and Appendix B) should be undertaken at stormwater entry points in this zone in

the initial three years.

Zone 6

Zone 6 target weeds


DENSITY

TARGET

DENSITY

(1yr)

TARGET

DENSITY

(3yrs)

TARGET

DENSITY

(10yrs)

Ageratina adenophora Crofton Weed 5 - 10% < 3% <1% 0%



Ipomoea cairica Coastal Morning Glory < 5% < 3% < 1% < 1%






Tradescantia fluminensis Wandering Jew < 5% < 3% < 1% < 1%

Person days recommended for Zone 6

YEAR

PLANTING

WEED CONTROL

(person days) Days

No.

plants

Year 1 1.5 150 5.5

Year 2 1 50 5

Year 3 1 50 3

Year 4 2

Year 5 1

Year 6 1

Year 7 1

Year 8 1

Year 9 1

Year 10 1

Total 250 18





• Dense stands of L. camara and Ligustrum sinense (Small-leaved Privet) in this zone should be treated in a mosaic pattern

during three years of primary weed control.


densely (i.e. at over 50% density). Treatment of T. fluminensis in such areas is detailed in Zone 1 recommendations.

• A buffer approximately two metres wide should be created along all edges of this zone within which no L. camara or L. sinense

is treated. Within the buffer, remaining target species should be treated and L. sinense seeds should be collected and

disposed of appropriately. The buffer will act as a physical barrier to wind-borne weed seeds and should remain in place for a

minimum of four years so that native vegetation has had a chance to regenerate after primary weed control is completed.

• Signage should be installed along Don Morris Walk, informing people about the bushland management works and

acknowledging any funding bodies.

Zone 7

Zone 7 target weeds


DENSITY

TARGET

DENSITY

(1yr)

TARGET

DENSITY

(3yrs)

TARGET

DENSITY

(10yrs)



Lantana camara Lantana 25 - 50% < 10% < 3% < 1%

Ligustrum sinense Small-leaved Privet 25 - 50% <10% < 5% <1%

Lonicera japonica Japanese Honeysuckle < 5% < 2% < 1% <1%

Solanum mauritianum Wild Tobacco < 5% < 1% < 1% 0%



YEAR ZONE 7

Year 1 20

Year 2 20

Year 3 20

Year 4 12

Year 5 12

Year 6 12

Year 7 4

Year 8 4

Year 9 1

Year 10 1

Total 106





• Dense stands of L. camara and L. sinense in this zone should be treated in a mosaic pattern during three years of primary

weed control.

• A buffer approximately two metres wide should be created along all edges of this zone within which no L. camara or L. sinense

is treated, as detailed in Zone 7 recommendations.

• There is potential for other highly invasive weed species (as present in other weed management zones) to also be

encountered in this zone, particularly once weed control works have progressed - as such they should be treated as

necessary.

Zone 8

Zone 8 target weeds


DENSITY

TARGET

DENSITY

(1yr)

TARGET

DENSITY

(3yrs)

TARGET

DENSITY

(10yrs)



Ligustrum sinense Small-leaved Privet 25 - 25% <10 - 15% < 10% <1%


YEAR

NORTH OF

WALKING TRACK

SOUTH OF

WALKING TRACK TOTAL

Year 1 40 20 60

Year 2 20 12 32

Year 3 20 8 28

Year 4 12 8 20

Year 5 12 4 16

Year 6 12 4 16

Year 7 8 2 10

Year 8 8 8

Year 9 8 8

Year 10 8 8

Total 206





• Dense stands of L. camara and L. sinense in this zone should be treated in a mosaic pattern during three years of primary weed

control.

• A buffer approximately two metres wide should be created along all edges of this zone within which no L. camara or L. sinense is

treated, as detailed in Zone 7 recommendations.

Zone 9

Zone 9 target weeds


DENSITY

TARGET

DENSITY

(1yr)

TARGET

DENSITY

(3yrs)

TARGET

DENSITY

(10yrs)


Ligustrum sinense Small-leaved Privet 25 - 50% <10 - 15% < 5% <1%

Ricinus communis Castor Oil Plant < 5% < 2% <1% 0%


Solanum mauritianum Wild Tobacco < 5% < 2% <1% 0%

Tradescantia fluminensis Wandering Jew < 5% < 3% <1% <1%


YEAR ZONE 9

Year 1 20

Year 2 20

Year 3 20

Year 4 12

Year 5 12

Year 6 12

Year 7 4

Year 8 4

Year 9 1

Year 10 1

Total 106




• As indicated in the tables below, target weeds for Zone 10 should be treated on a timeframe as per the

recommendations.

• Dense stands of L. camara in this zone should be treated in a mosaic pattern during three years of primary

weed control, or via a splatter gun in areas where there is no chance of incidental damage to native vegetation.

• A buffer approximately two metres wide should be created along all edges of this zone within which no L.

camara is treated, as detailed in Zone 2 recommendations.

Zone 10

Zone 10 target weeds


DENSITY

TARGET

DENSITY

(1yr)

TARGET

DENSITY

(3yrs)

TARGET

DENSITY

(10yrs)

Araujia sericifera Moth Vine < 5% < 1% < 1% 0%


Cestrum parqui Green Cestrum 5 - 10% < 1% < 1% 0%

Genista monspessulana Montpellier Broom < 5% < 2% < 1% 0%

Ipomoea cairica Coastal Morning Glory 15 - 20% < 10% < 5% < 1%

Ipomoea indica Morning Glory 5 - 10% <5% < 2% < 1%


Ricinus communis Castor Oil Plant < 5% < 2% <1% 0%


YEAR ZONE 10

Year 1 20

Year 2 12

Year 3 12

Year 4 8

Year 5 8

Year 6 6

Year 7 6

Year 8 4

Year 9 4

Year 10 2

Total 82



9.3.13 Action Plan - Wetland 1

• As indicated in the tables below, target weeds for Wetland 1 should be treated on a timeframe as per the recommendations.

• The non-indigenous Nymphaea gigantea (Giant Waterlily) should be controlled via hand removal of leaves and flowers from a

boat. A boat will also be required to undertake works on the islands not connected via bridges / walkways and other

inaccessible areas.

Wetland 1

Wetland 1 target weeds


DENSITY

TARGET

DENSITY

(1yr)

TARGET

DENSITY

(3yrs)

TARGET

DENSITY

(10yrs)

Cortaderia selloana Pampas Grass 10 - 15%


Ligustrum sinense Small-leaved Privet 25 - 50% <10% < 5% <1%

Nymphaea gigantea Giant Waterlily > 75% of

wetland

< 50% < 25% < 20%

Person days for weed control recommended for Wetland 1

SECTION TERRESTRIAL

(inc. islands)

AQUATIC

(Giant water lily) TOTAL

Year 1 20 24 44

Year 2 20 12 32

Year 3 20 8 28

Year 4 12 8 20

Year 5 12 8 20

Year 6 4 4 8

Year 7 4 4 8

Year 8 4 4 8

Year 9 1 4 5

Year 10 1 4 5

Total 178



9.3.14 Action Plan - Wetland 2

• This is a relatively large and much disturbed area with high concentrations of highly invasive environmental weed species.

• It is recommended that a separate management plan / strategy be developed for Wetland 2. The area contains severe

infestations and dense aggregations of several species of environmental weeds (tabulated below), particularly Ipomoea sp.

that are threatening mature remnant native trees and more recently regenerated and planted areas.

• As a high priority, Ipomoea species growing on native vegetation should be controlled as the species will ultimately smother

the native vegetation.

• Indicative hours to carry-out the control of the Ipomea sp. are presented in the table below.

• Also, many sections would benefit from revegetation after weeds are controlled. It is estimated that due to the size and the

amount of degradation, that over 30,000 native plants would be required to allow this area to regain a native natural

environment.

Wetland 2

Wetland 1 target weeds


DENSITY

TARGET

DENSITY

(1yr)

TARGET

DENSITY

(3yrs)

TARGET

DENSITY

(10yrs)

Ageratina adenophora Crofton Weed 10 - 15% < 1%

Canna indica Indian Shot < 5% < 1%

Ipomoea cairica Coastal Morning Glory 15 - 20% < 10% < 5% <1%

Ipomoea indica Morning Glory 10 - 15% < 10% < 5% <1%


Ligustrum sinense Small-leaved Privet < 5% <10% < 5% <1%

Ricinus communis Castor Oil Plant 15 - 20%

Person days for weed control recommended for Wetland 2

SECTION TOTAL

Year 1 20

Year 2 16

Year 3 16

Year 4 8

Year 5 8

Year 6 8

Year 7 6

Year 8 6

Year 9 4

Year 10 4

Total 178



10 Community involvement


Existing opportunities for community involvement in landscape management within the campus are via:

• Callaghan Campus Landscape Consultative Group

• Trees in Newcastle

• Research programs by staff and students

10.2 OBJECTIVES

• Increase the numbers of people involved in landscape management on campus

• Increase links between landscape management and research / teaching activities

• Foster a greater sense of community within the campus through greater environmental

awareness and interaction with the environment

• Improve environmental sustainability

• Showcase the ‘bushland campus’ to prospective students and staff, as well as the wider

community, to generate greater appreciation of the natural values of the campus

10.3 RECOMMENDATIONS

Current avenues for involving the community should continue to be supported. The following actions

are proposed to increase community involvement and awareness:

• Schedule special events e.g. Clean Up Australia, commemorative tree planting, fauna

observation

• Establish a campus bushcare group(s) to conduct planting, weed control, erosion control,

rubbish removal

• Provide education material regarding conservation and habitat values, stormwater and waste

management, and sustainability

Newcastle City Council may be able to collaborate with the UoN for some of these activities.



References

Campus Book Committee and The Friends of the University of Newcastle 1993. Bushland Campus – A

description of the natural ecology and the human development of the grounds of The University of

Newcastle.

City of Newcastle 2011. Draft Development Control Plan – 7.02 Landscaping, Open Space and Visual

Amenity.

City of Newcastle 2011. Technical Manual – Landscaping. Prepared by the Future City Group, City of

Newcastle.

City of Newcastle 2010. Urban Forest Technical Manual.

DEWG 2008. University of Newcastle Strategic Masterplan – Callaghan Campus and Central Coast

Campus. Prepared for the University of Newcastle.

Ecobiological 2011. Ecological Conservation Zone Report (Parts 1, 2 and 3) – Callaghan Campus,

University of Newcastle. Prepared for the Facilities Management, Major Projects and Strategic

Planning Unit, University of Newcastle.

Ecobiological 2011. Ecological Conservation Methods Manual. Prepared for the Department of

Facilities Management, University of Newcastle, Callaghan.

Maynard, J. Undated. Callaghan, The University of Newcastle – Whose Traditional Land?

Newcastle Bushfire Consulting 2010. Draft University of Newcastle Bushfire Risk Reduction (Phase 2)

Options Paper – 3 Year Works Plan. Prepared for the University of Newcastle, Callaghan Campus.

Newcastle Bushfire Consulting 2010. University of Newcastle Bushfire 3 Year Works Plan – Tender

Specification Building. Prepared for the University of Newcastle, Callaghan Campus.

Newcastle Bushfire Consulting 2010. University of Newcastle Bushfire Program of Works Options

Paper – Immediate Works. Prepared for the University of Newcastle, Callaghan Campus.

Newcastle Bushfire Consulting 2010. University of Newcastle Bushfire Options Plan – Tender

Specification. Prepared for the University of Newcastle, Callaghan Campus.

Newcastle Bushfire Consulting 2010. University of Newcastle Bushfire Program of Works Immediate –

Tender Specification. Prepared for the University of Newcastle, Callaghan Campus.

Terras Landscape Architects 2008. Landscape Management Plan for the Callaghan Campus.

Prepared for the University of Newcastle.

University of Newcastle undated. Draft Callaghan Campus Native Vegetation Offset Strategy.

University of Newcastle 2011. 2011-2013 Environmental Sustainability Plan.

University of Newcastle undated. Landscape Management (c) Landscape Tender Document.



University of Newcastle undated. University Wetlands Conservation and Rehabilitation Management

Plan.

Woodland, M. Undated. Natural and Designed Environmental Management Plan – Callaghan Campus,

University of Newcastle. Prepared as an Environmental Management Specialist Study.



Appendix A: Offsetting principles

NSW Office of Environment and Heritage

These offset principles are taken from the OEH website:

1. Impacts must be avoided first by using prevention and mitigation measures.

Offsets are then used to address remaining impacts. This may include modifying the proposal to avoid

an area of biodiversity value or putting in place measures to prevent offsite impacts.

2. All regulatory requirements must be met.

Offsets cannot be used to satisfy approvals or assessments under other legislation, e.g. assessment

requirements for Aboriginal heritage sites, pollution or other environmental impacts (unless specifically

provided for by legislation or additional approvals).

3. Offsets must never reward ongoing poor performance.

Offset schemes should not encourage landholders to deliberately degrade or mismanage offset areas in

order to increase the value from the offset.

4. Offsets will complement other government programs.

A range of tools is required to achieve the NSW Government’s conservation objectives, including the

establishment and management of new national parks, nature reserves, state conservation areas and

regional parks and incentives for private landholders.

5. Offsets must be underpinned by sound ecological principles.

They must:

• include the consideration of structure, function and compositional elements of biodiversity,

including threatened species

• enhance biodiversity at a range of scales

• consider the conservation status of ecological communities

• ensure the long-term viability and functionality of biodiversity.

Biodiversity management actions, such as enhancement of existing habitat and securing and managing

land of conservation value for biodiversity, can be suitable offsets. Reconstruction of ecological

communities involves high risks and uncertainties for biodiversity outcomes and is generally less

preferable than other management strategies, such as enhancing existing habitat.

6. Offsets should aim to result in a net improvement in biodiversity over time.

Enhancement of biodiversity in offset areas should be equal to or greater than the loss in biodiversity

from the impact site.

Setting aside areas for biodiversity conservation without additional management or increased security is

generally not sufficient to offset against the loss of biodiversity. Factors to consider include protection of



existing biodiversity (removal of threats), time-lag effects, and the uncertainties and risks associated

with actions such as revegetation.

Offsets may include enhancing habitat, reconstructing habitat in strategic areas to link areas of

conservation value, or increasing buffer zones around areas of conservation value and removal of

threats by conservation agreements or reservation.

7. Offsets must be enduring & they must offset the impact of the development for the period that the

impact occurs.

As impacts on biodiversity are likely to be permanent, the offset should also be permanent and secured

by a conservation agreement or reservation and management for biodiversity. Where land is donated to

a public authority or a private conservation organisation and managed as a biodiversity offset, it should

be accompanied by resources for its management. Offsetting should only proceed if an appropriate

legal mechanism or instrument is used to secure the required actions.

8. Offsets should be agreed prior to the impact occurring.

Offsets should minimise ecological risks from time-lags. The feasibility and in-principle agreements to

the necessary offset actions should be demonstrated prior to the approval of the impact. Legal

commitments to the offset actions should be entered into prior to the commencement of works under

approval.

9. Offsets must be quantifiable & the impacts and benefits must be reliably estimated.

Offsets should be based on quantitative assessment of the loss in biodiversity from the clearing or other

development and the gain in biodiversity from the offset. The methodology must be based on the best

available science, be reliable and used for calculating both the loss from the development and the gain

from the offset. The methodology should include:

• the area of impact

• the types of ecological communities and habitat/species affected

• connectivity with other areas of habitat/corridors

• the condition of habitat

• the conservation status and/or scarcity/rarity of ecological communities

• management actions

• level of security afforded to the offset site.

• the best available information/data should be used when assessing impacts of biodiversity loss

and gains from offsets.

Offsets will be of greater value where:

• they protect land with high conservation significance

• management actions have greater benefits for biodiversity

• the offset areas are not isolated or fragmented

• the management for biodiversity is in perpetuity (e.g. secured through a conservation

agreement)

• management actions must be deliverable and enforceable

10. Offsets must be targeted.



They must offset impacts on the basis of like-for-like or better conservation outcome. Offsets should be

targeted according to biodiversity priorities in the area, based on the conservation status of the

ecological community, the presence of threatened species or their habitat, connectivity and the potential

to enhance condition by management actions and the removal of threats. Only ecological communities

that are equal or greater in conservation status to the type of ecological community lost can be used for

offsets. One type of environmental benefit cannot be traded for another: for example, biodiversity offsets

may also result in improvements in water quality or salinity but these benefits do not reduce the

biodiversity offset requirements.

11. Offsets must be located appropriately.

Wherever possible, offsets should be located in areas that have the same or similar ecological

characteristics as the area affected by the development.

12. Offsets must be supplementary.

They must be beyond existing requirements and not already funded under another scheme. Areas that

have received incentive funds cannot be used for offsets. Existing protected areas on private land

cannot be used for offsets unless additional security or management actions are implemented. Areas

already managed by the government, such as national parks, flora reserves and public open space

cannot be used as offsets.

13. Offsets and their actions must be enforceable through development consent conditions, licence

conditions, conservation agreements or a contract.

Offsets must be audited to ensure that the actions have been carried out, and monitored to determine

that the actions are leading to positive biodiversity outcomes.

Commonwealth (DEWR 2007)

While the Commonwealth do not have a formal methodology for calculating offset requirements, there

are draft policies in place that provide the principles deemed appropriate when offsetting the impact of

vegetation clearance (DEWR 2007). The Australian Government’s position is summarised as follows.

• Environmental offsets should be targeted to the matter protected by the EPBC Act that is being

impacted.

• A flexible approach should be taken to the design and use of environmental offsets to achieve

long-term and certain conservation outcomes which are cost effective for proponents.

• Environmental offsets should deliver a real conservation outcome.

• Environmental offsets should be developed as a package of actions - which may include both

direct and indirect offsets.

• Environmental offsets should, as a minimum, be commensurate with the magnitude of the

impacts of the development and ideally deliver outcomes that are ‘like for like’.

• Environmental offsets should be located within the same general area as the development

activity.

• Environmental offsets should be delivered in a timely manner and be long lasting.

• Environmental offsets should be enforceable, monitored and audited.

This policy identifies two kinds of biodiversity offset, ‘direct offsets’ including such measures as long-

term protection of existing habitat, and ‘indirect offsets’ for such measures as implementing recovery

plan actions or contributions to relevant research.



Appendix B: Revegetation in the bushland management zone

The following information has been adapted from Section 2.6 of Ecobiological’s report and the

Scientific Committee Determinations (http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/determinations/)

and should be used as a guide to selecting species suitable for use in revegetation of these

communities (refer to Figure 4 for the map of vegetation communities).

Coastal Foothills Spotted Gum - Ironbark Forest

This community is dominated by Corymbia maculata in combination with one or several

ironbark species E. siderophloia, E. paniculata or E.fibrosa. E. acmenoides, E. umbra and

Syncarpia glomulifera are common associate trees.

In the dry forest variant at the study site Angophora costata, E. globoidea and Corymbia

gummifera were common associated species.

The moist variant had higher density of E. propinqua and Syncarpia glomulifera, often co-

dominant with C. maculata.

The upper mid-storey is often composed of an open stratum of Allocasuarina torulosa, which

was evident yet sparse in the dry forest variant at the study site. As the community became

sheltered the upper mid-storey had higher composition of mesic species such as Glochidion

ferdinandi, Cryptocarya microneura and Alphitonia excelsa.

Typically the shrub layer is open in the exposed locations (dry forest variant) with species

such as Polysicas sambucifolius, Daviesia ulicifolia, Bursaria spinosa and Leucopogon

juniperinus frequent. Common native shrubs in the sheltered and moist locations were

Pittosporum undulatum, Notelaea longifolia, with Polysicas sambucifolius, Backhousia

myrtifolia and Melicope micrococca found in small numbers.

The ground cover in the dry forest variant is dominated by a number of common grasses

including Themeda australis, Entolasia stricta, Aristida vagans, Cymbopogon refractus and

Imperata cylindrica var major. Common herbs were Dianella cearulea, D. revoluta,

Gonocarpus teucrioides, Pratia purpurescens, Dichondra repens, Glycine species and

Lomandra species.

Riparian closed forest

The Riparian Closed Forest is a restricted narrow band of vegetation over the drainage lines

through the study site. The dominant canopy species was Alphitonia excelsa, Glochidion

ferdinandi and Backhousia myrtifolia. Often a eucalypt tree (C. maculata, E. propinqua, E.

acmenoides) was present, however, the eucalypt canopy cover over the Riparian Closed

Forest was low.

Ficus coronata was present in large numbers over the creek, and Pittosporum undulatum and

Notelaea longifolia was common also.



The ground cover had Oplismenus imbecillis, Panicum obseptum and Doodia aspera

common in moist to wet areas, and Christella dentata, Lomandra longifolia and Carex

appressa clumps found on creek edges.

Freshwater wetlands

Locally endemic wetland species include Typha orientalis (Cumbungi), Phragmites australis

(Common Reed), Enydra fluctuans, Persicaria strigosa (Spotted Knotweed), Triglochin

microtuberosa (Eastern Ribbonweed) and Eleocharis sphacelata (Hairless Spikerush).



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