Proponent Joyful View Garden Real Estate Development ... · Joyful View Garden Real Estate Development Resort Co Pty Ltd (Joyful View) is proposing to develop the Cherrabah Granite

Proponent Joyful View Garden

Real Estate Development Resort

Co Pty Ltd

Cherrabah Granite Mine

Environmental

Management Plan

Framework

April 2019

GHD | Report for Joyful View Garden Real Estate Development Co Pty Ltd - Cherrabah Granite Mine, 4132137 | i

Table of contents 1. Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 1

2. Project Description ......................................................................................................................... 2

2.1 Site establishment ................................................................................................................ 2

3. Environmental Values, Impacts Commitments .............................................................................. 4

3.1 Air Quality ............................................................................................................................ 5

3.2 Noise and Vibration.............................................................................................................. 8

3.3 Waste ................................................................................................................................... 9

3.4 Water ................................................................................................................................. 12

3.5 Ecology .............................................................................................................................. 16

3.6 Other .................................................................................................................................. 20

4. Environmental Management ........................................................................................................ 25

4.1 Financial assurance ........................................................................................................... 25

4.2 Granite mining .................................................................................................................... 25

4.3 Staff training ....................................................................................................................... 26

Table index Table 3-1 - Ambient background dust concentrations (Jondaryan DES station) ..................................... 5

Table 3-2 - Air Quality management plan ................................................................................................ 6

Table 3-3 - Equivalent Outdoor Acoustic Quality Objectives ................................................................... 8

Table 3-4 - Noise and vibration management plan .................................................................................. 8

Table 3-7 - Waste management plan ..................................................................................................... 10

Table 3-8 - EVs and their applicability to the SiteTable ......................................................................... 12

Table 3-9 - Water management plan ..................................................................................................... 14

Table 3-10 - Ecology management plan ................................................................................................ 17

Figure index Figure 1-1 Project Location ...................................................................................................................... 1

Figure 2-1 Site layout ............................................................................................................................... 3

GHD | Report for Joyful View Garden Real Estate Development Co Pty Ltd - Cherrabah Granite Mine, 4132137 | 1

1. IntroductionJoyful View Garden Real Estate Development Resort Co Pty Ltd (Joyful View) is proposing to develop the Cherrabah Granite Mine (the ‘project’) within Lot 1000 SP268215, approximately 25 km south of Warwick in South East Queensland. The project comprises dimension stone mining and associated ancillary works such as stormwater management systems, topsoil and resource stockpiles, access tracks and roads, site office and amenities. The project locality is shown in Figure 1-1.

This Environmental Management Plan (EMP) has been written to assist the Queensland Department of Environment and Science (DES) to prepare an Environmental Authority. The EMP has been prepared in accordance with s125 of the Environmental Protection Act 1994 (EP Act) and Schedule 5 – Pat 3 of the Environmental Protection Regulation 2008 (EP Reg)

OLD ST

ANTH

ORPE

ROAD

KEOGH ROAD

CLOSED ROAD

CHERRIBAH CHERRYGULLY ROAD

DAGGS SWAMP ROAD

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HOPG

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R OAD

FIGURE 1-1

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Project No.Revision No. 0

41-32137Date 25/03/2019

Joyful View Garden Real Estate Development Co Pty LtdCherrabah Granite Mine Environmental Assessment

Map Projection: Transverse MercatorHorizontal Datum: GDA 1994Grid: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 56

Paper Size ISO A3

oData source: DNRME : Road, Mining Lease Area (2018), Mineral Exploration Permit (2019), Watercourse (2014); GHD: Study Area, Disturbance A rea (2018); Royal Duke: Proposed Haul Road (2018); GA:

Populated Places, Mainlands (2007); Imagery Source : Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS, USDA , US GS, A eroGRID, IGN, and the GIS User Community. Created by:ACJackson

\\ghdnet\ghd\A U\Brisbane\Pro jects\41\32137\GIS\Maps\MXD\41-32137_029_ProjectArea_rev0 .mxdPrint date: 26 Mar 2019 - 09:45

Proposed Haul RoadDisturbance FootprintMineral Exploration PermitMining Lease AreaStudy Area

Project locality

Based on or contains data provided by the State of Queensland (Departmentof Natural Resources, Mines and Energy) 2019.In consideration of the State permitting use of this data you acknowledgeand agree that the Stategives no warranty in relation to the data (including accuracy, reliabil ity,completeness, currency or suitabili ty) and acceptsno liabili ty (including without l imitation, liability in negligence) for any loss,damage or costs (including consequentialdamage) relating to any use of the data. Data must not be used for directmarketing or be used in breach of the privacy laws.

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QUEENSLAND

NEW SOUTH WALES

DALBY

WARWICK

BALLINA

BRISBANETOOWOOMBA

GOLD COAST

TENTERFIELD

TWEED HEADS

LegendStreet/Local RoadUnconstructed RoadMinor Watercourse


2. Project Description The project would be located within a portion of Lot 1000 on SP268215, on Freehold land owned by Joyful View, known as ‘Cherrabah’, within the Southern Downs Regional Council local government area and subject to a Mining Lease Application (MLA).

Joyful View has submitted an MLA that covers an area of 17.42 ha, and comprises less than one per cent of the Cherrabah property area (1,988 ha). The disturbance footprint within the MLA is estimated at 7.39 ha comprising:

An extraction area (including internal access)

Stormwater management system

Stockpiles and material processing areas

Site amenities.

The proposed mine will produce approximately 8,000 tonnes of dimension stone product annually from within the nominated extraction area.

The project site borders the Queensland/New South Wales border on the south eastern side with elevations of approximately 940 m at the border to 630 m at the site entrance

2.1 Site establishment

Site establishment (Figure 2-1) requires the following early works activities to be undertaken:

Clearing and grubbing to remove vegetation and topsoil and clearing of internal access tracks

Earthworks to level an appropriate processing and stockpiling area to the north of the resource area, including stormwater drainage infrastructure

Establishment of site infrastructure (including site office and amenities, power and communications).

Site establishment is expected to take three months.

Construction of an access track from the MLA boundary to Keoogh Road is required to facilitate access to the project site. The track will be constructed to rural road standard with a 6 m wide gravel pavement on an 8 m formation. An allowance of 10 m has been made to accommodate construction of the track.

The project site is accessed via local roads, Keogh Road via O’ Deas Road and Cullendore Road. The existing access to the site is via the northeast corner of the property along a formed private road (past the Cherrabah Resort facility) and an unformed track to the project site boundary. Joyful View has committed to upgrading Keogh Road to an 8 m wide sealed pavement once production exceeds 5,000 t annually (refer Section 8). The private access and local roads are not within the footprint of the MLA and development of road infrastructure will be subject to separate environmental and planning approvals.

FIGURE 2-1

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Metres

Project No.Revision No. 0

41-32137Date 25/03/2019

Joyful View Garden Real Estate Development Co Pty LtdCherrabah Granite Mine Environmental Assessment

Map Projection: Transverse MercatorHorizontal Datum: GDA 1994Grid: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 56

Paper Size ISO A3

oData source: DNRME : Road, Mining Lease Area (2018), Watercourse (2014); GHD: Study A rea , Project Area (2018), P roposed Infrastructure (2019); Royal Duke: P roposed Hau l Road (2018); Imagery S ource:

Esri, Dig ita lGlobe, GeoEye, Earthstar Geograph ics, CNE S/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN, and the GIS User Community. Crea ted by: A CJackson\\ghdnet\ghd\A U\Brisbane\Pro jects\41\32137\GIS\Maps\MXD\41-32137_031_SiteInfrastructure_rev0.mxdPrint date: 26 Mar 2019 - 09:50

Minor WatercourseProposed Haul RoadEarthen BundsMining PitProcessing StockpilesRock Linned DrainRock Linned Drainage ChannelSediment BasinStorage ShedTankTopsoil StockpileUpstream DiversionMining Lease AreaStudy Area

Site infrastructure layout

Based on or contains data provided by the State of Queensland (Departmentof Natural Resources, Mines and Energy) 2019.In consideration of the State permitting use of this data you acknowledgeand agree that the Stategives no warranty in relation to the data (including accuracy, reliabil ity,completeness, currency or suitabili ty) and acceptsno liabili ty (including without l imitation, liability in negligence) for any loss,damage or costs (including consequentialdamage) relating to any use of the data. Data must not be used for directmarketing or be used in breach of the privacy laws.

LegendMinor Watercourse


3. Environmental Values, Impacts Commitments This EMP was prepared in accordance with the relevant requirements of the Queensland Environmental Protection Act 1994 and associated Environmental Protection Regulation 2008 for Joyful View’s Cherrabah Granite Mine. Whilst the EMP can be used as a stand-alone document, it has been developed using information from the Environmental Assessment Report used to support Joyful View’s EA Amendment Application for the Cherrabah Granite Mine.

This EMP provides life-of-mine control strategies for specified performance criteria to operate within acceptable levels of environmental harm.

The guiding definitions for the terms that are used throughout the EMP are as follows:

Environmental values: Section 9 of the EP Act describes Environmental Value as:

(1) A quality of physical characteristic of the environment that is conducive to the ecological health of public amenity or safety; or

(2) Another quality of the environment identified and declared to be an environmental value under an environmental protection policy or regulation.

Environmental Protection Objectives: Key elements of the environment and the outcomes to be protected in order to minimise impacts on the environmental values.

Control strategies: Contextual framework for the proposed Environmental Authority conditions and the strategies proposed to meet the environmental protection objectives.

Indicators: Tools by which the level of achievement of the environmental protection objectives can be determined, in a measurable and auditable way.

Standards: Numerical standards for each indicator by which adequate levels of achievement of environmental protection objectives and protection of the environmental values can be determined.

The general structure of the EMP is as follows:

Identify the Environmental Values.

Identify and develop the Environmental Protection Objectives in order to minimise impacts on the environmental values

Develop Commitments (including management plans and strategies) to achieve compliance with the Environmental Protection Objectives


3.1 Air Quality

The construction and operation of the project has the potential to cause air quality impacts, dust generation in particular, on the surrounding environment. Joyful View is committed to minimising impacts from the mining activities by implementing a range of dust control measures and procedures.

3.1.1 Environmental Values

The area surrounding the mine site is of rural character with agriculture being the predominate land use and residential and more intensive uses closer to the township of Warwick. The air pollution model (TAPM) identified the following features:

The predominant annual average wind directions are from the east-southeast and east comprising 33% of all incident winds

The incidence of westerly winds (~4%) is less than easterlies occurring ~11% of the time.

The annual average wind speed measured was 3.25 m/s.

The observed wind speed distribution indicates that the largest proportion of high wind speeds (> 5 m/s) are from the southeast and the southwest, while the largest proportion of light winds (<1.5 m/s) are from the east-southeast to east-northeast.

The nearest ambient air quality monitoring station is operated by the Department of Environment and Science (DES) at Jondaryan, located north-northwest of the site.

Monitoring data collected at this station in 2015 are summarised in Table 3-1. The 70th percentile was taken to be representative of background conditions for averaging times less than a year. The maximum recorded daily averages of PM10 and PM2.5 were both above their respective Environmental Protection (Air) Policy 2008 criteria – most likely due to or continental blown dust or smoke, respectively.

Table 3-1 - Ambient background dust concentrations (Jondaryan DES station)

Pollutant Averaging period

Background concentration

Source

Total suspended particles (TSP)

1 year 36 μg/m3 Annual average from Jondaryan 2015

PM10 24 hours 21 μg/m3 70th percentile from daily averages at Jondaryan 2015

PM2.5 24 hours 6.6 μg/m3 70th percentile from daily averages at Jondaryan 2015

1 year 6.2 μg/m3 Annual average from Jondaryan 2015

In Queensland, air quality is managed under the EP Act, EP Reg and the Environmental Protection (Air) Policy 2008 (the EPP (Air)).

The EP Act provides for long-term protection of the environment in a manner consistent with the principles of ecologically sustainable development. The purpose of the EPP (Air) is to achieve the objectives of the Act in relation to Queensland’s air environment. The objective is achieved through:

Identification of environmental values to be enhanced or protected

Specification of air quality indicators and goals to protect environmental values


Provision of a framework for making consistent and fair decisions about managing the air environment and involving the community to achieving air quality goals that best pretect Queensland’s air environment.

3.1.2 Environmental Impacts, commitments and strategies

Table 3-2 highlights the potential impacts of the project, the performance outcomes as identified in the EP Reg, and the control measures that will be implemented by Joyful View to meet the performance criteria.

Table 3-2 - Air Quality management plan

Issues and Impacts

Potential impacts of dust emissions in the air as a result of mining activities include:

• Health impacts from particulate matter • Impacts on amenity

Environmental objective

The activity will be operated in a way that protects the environmental values of air.

Performance outcomes

1. There is no discharge to air of contaminants that may cause an adverse effect on the environment from the operation of the activity.

2. All of the following:

a. Fugitive emissions of contaminants from storage, handling and processing of materials and transporting materials within the site are prevented or minimised

b. Contingency measures will prevent or minimise adverse effects on the environment from unplanned emissions and shut down and start up emissions of contaminants to air

c. Releases of contaminants to the atmosphere for dispersion will be managed to prevent or minimise adverse effects on environmental values.

Control Measures Responsibility

All machinery used during operations is to have proprietary emission control equipment fitted and in working order.

Site Manager

Workers

When not in use, vehicles, and other onsite equipment shall be turned off, when practical and safe.

Workers

Vehicles transporting materials to and from site must have covered loads

Site Manager

Disturbance of the site will be kept to a minimum with only the necessary areas for mining and related activities being disturbed. This includes keeping the number of internal roads to a minimum number.

Site Manager

Maintain / spray internal roads with water using the water truck so that potential for dust production is reduced.

Workers


Maintain low speed limits on internal roads to reduce potential for dust production.

Site Manager

The mine will be operated as a ‘wet mine’ by using wet drilling at wet cutting in order to minimise dust

Site Manager

Apply water as part of dust suppression to stockpiles should it be required.

Site Manager

All dust and particulate wastes are to be wrapped, bagged, or otherwise packaged for disposal, prior to removal from site.

Site Manager

Workers

Monitoring

Undertake inspections / observations of air quality conditions (dust, odour) at the facility on a daily basis. Record findings on the daily site inspection checklist.

Site Manager

Dust monitoring will be undertaken initially to determine whether predicted emissions levels occur. In order to monitor background dust levels, a system of dust deposition gauges at site boundaries will be installed upwind and downwind of the mine site. Dust deposition audit monitoring will be discontinued after an annual cycle if no complaints are received and levels are as low as predicted.

Site Manager

Reporting

Any observations or evidence of air pollution in excess of normal operations to be reported to the Site Manager.

Workers

Maintain an incident and complaints register. Complaints to be recorded using the complaint record form), and record of complaint retained on file.

Site Manager

Corrective action

Where there is exceedances in the monitoring, a review of the operational activity that was being undertaken at the time will be undertaken to identify whether additional controls are required, such as the installation of an exhaust filter or servicing or replacement of machinery or vehicle, or installation of misting.

Site Manager

Appropriate control measures shall be implemented in a timely manner where excessive emissions or nuisance dust and other air quality issues are identified or possess the potential to occur in the future.

Site Manager

All complaints in relation to air quality shall be investigated. Monitoring will be undertaken and the complaint will be addressed using appropriate dispute resolution methods and abatement or attenuation measures. Authorised activities will not result in further environmental nuisance.

Site Manager


3.2 Noise and Vibration

The construction and operation of the Project has the potential to generate noise and vibration impacts on nearby sensitive places.


The local meteorology largely determines the pattern of off-site noise impact. The characterisation of local wind patterns requires accurate site-specific or site-representative hourly recordings of wind speed and direction over a period of at least 12 months (one year).

Due to the lack of site-representative weather stations surrounding the subject site, GHD has utilised prognostic meteorological data generated in TAPM. The identified values are the same as identified in Section 3.1.1.

In Queensland, a typical façade noise reduction of 7 dB(A) is assumed through a partially open window of a dwelling, which results in external noise criteria for health, well-being, and for the night time the ability to sleep. These criteria are summarised in Table 3-3.

Table 3-3 - Equivalent Outdoor Acoustic Quality Objectives

Sensitive Receptor Time of day

Acoustic Quality Objectives, dB(A) Environmental Value

LAeq,adj,1hr LA10,a

dj,1hr LA1,adj,1hr

Dwelling (equivalent outdoor)

Daytime and evening 42 47 52 Health and wellbeing

Night time 37 42 47 Health, wellbeing and the ability to sleep

3.2.2 Environmental Impacts, commitments and strategies

Table 3-4 highlights the potential impacts of the project, the performance outcomes as identified in the EP Reg, and the control measures that will be implemented by Joyful View to meet the performance criteria.

Table 3-4 - Noise and vibration management plan

Issues and Impacts

Noise generation from the crushing and screening of secondary/ grade B material may cause noise impacts at sensitive receivers

Environmental objectives

The activity will be operated in a way that protects the environmental values of the acoustic environment.


1. Sound from the activity is not audible at a sensitive receptor

2. The release of sound to the environment from the activity is managed so that adverse effects on environmental values including health and wellbeing and sensitive ecosystems are prevented or minimised.



Ensure operational equipment is in good working order Workers

Operating hours be during daylight hours between 7:00 am to 6:00 pm Workers

Notification will be given to sensitive receptors prior to screening and crushing activities (once or twice a year). The activities will be limited to the hours of 9:00 am to 5:00 pm for no more than give consecutive days at a time

Site Manager

To limit noise of haul trucks passing the resort, trucks will be selected as lower noise equipment or modified to ensure that they are nominally quieter (with a sound power level of equal to or less than 107 dB(A)) using suitable improved muffler design and/or engine compartment lining.

Site Manager

Monitoring

Monitoring will be undertaken in the form of a complaints register. Where complaints are received, an investigation will be undertaken on the activities undertaken at the time of the complaint.

Site Manager

Reporting

An incident and complaints register will be maintained. Complaints will be recorded using the complaint record form, and record of complaint retained on file.

Site Manager

Corrective action

Complaints relating to noise shall be investigated promptly and appropriate actions identified and executed.

Site Manager

3.3 Waste

The construction and operation of the Project has the potential to increase waste generation and cause waste related impacts such as pollution on nearby sensitive places.


There are various regulatory requirements in Queensland for (non-mineral) waste. They include:

Environmental Protection Act 1994 (EP Act)

Environmental Protection (Waste Management) Policy 2000 (EPP Waste)

Environmental Protection (Waste Management) Regulation 2000 (EPR)

Waste Reduction and Recycling Act 2011

The environmental values recognized in the EPP Waste include:

Life, health and well-being of people

Diversity of ecological processes and associated ecosystems

Land use capability


The EPP also provides a strategic framework for establishing a waste management hierarchy that identifies the following waste management practices in the preferred order of adoption:

Waste avoidance

Waste re-use

Waste recycling

Energy recovery from waste

Waste disposal

3.3.2 Environmental impacts, commitments and strategies

Table 3-7 highlights the potential impacts of the project, the performance outcomes as identified, and the control measures that will be implemented by Joyful View to meet the performance criteria.

Table 3-5 - Waste management plan

Issues and Impacts

Inappropriate storage of waste can result in litter and potentially attract pest animals, affect water quality and reduce amenity of the site.


To prevent or minimise the generation of wastes and to appropriately contain, control and dispose of all waste generated.

Performance outcome


a. Waste generated, transported or received is managed in accordance with the waste and resource management hierarchy in the Waste Reduction and; Recycling Act 2011.

b. If waste is disposed of, it is disposed of in a way that prevents or minimises adverse effects on environmental values.


Lidded bins are provided to minimise mobilisation of wastes in high winds.

Site Manager

All users of the facility will be required to utilise the bins on site, and advised of their environmental obligations in relation to littering.

Site Manager

Waste will be removed by an appropriately licenced waste contractor on a regular basis.

Site Manager

Wastewater and other liquid wastes are not to be released to stormwater drainage systems, stormwater, ground water or discharged to waterways.

Site Manager

Workers

Where waste is a contaminant, it must not be released to the environment, which will or may cause environmental harm or nuisance.

Workers


Monitoring

Waste generated on site will be tracked and measured against the waste management hierarchy (to be outlined in a waste management plan). Appropriate disposal of waste will be monitored to ensure waste is not released into the adjacent environment.

Site Manager

Reporting

No reporting required

Corrective Action

If waste containment is a recurring issue, review bin locations and types. Consider shelters and prevailing winds.

Site Manager


3.4 Water

The construction and operation of the project has the potential to cause water quality impacts, contaminated stormwater runoff in particular, on the surrounding environment.


The Site is situated in the Condamine headwaters region, which has been designated ten of the twelve EVs by the Healthy Water Management Plan. Table 3-8 outlines the ten EVs and their relevance to the Site and receiving environment, and therefore their applicability in the context of the local area. Human consumer and drinking water are environmental values applicable to the region.

Table 3-6 - EVs and their applicability to the SiteTable

Environmental Value

Relevance to Site and Receiving Environment Applicable

Aquatic Ecosystems

The aquatic ecosystem value is applicable to all regions

The aquatic ecosystem at the Site and surrounding areas, including the receiving environment for the Site, is considered Moderately Disturbed (MD)

Yes

Irrigation Farming, including irrigated farming, is a current land use feature along the banks of the Condamine River and Lord John Creek.

Irrigated agriculture occurs along Lord John Creek, beginning approximately 17.5 km downstream from the Site.

Multiple irrigated cropping sites are located along the Condamine River, downstream from the Site. These properties are more than 25 km downstream from the Site.

Irrigation is considered applicable due to the irrigated agriculture and farming sites surrounding the waterways

Yes

Farm Use Supply

A number of farms, including irrigation farms and dryland agriculture areas, exist along Lord John Creek.

Grazing from relatively natural vegetation is the primary land use surrounding the site.

A private reservoir along Lord John Creek is located approximately 8.5 km downstream from site.

Two reservoirs exist at the junction of the Condamine River and Lord John Creek, approximately 21.5 km downstream for the Site.

Farm use supply is considered applicable environmental value due to the current land uses surrounding the waterways

Yes

Stock Water Grazing from relativity natural vegetation is the primary land use surrounding the waterway in the receiving environment.

Stock water is considered an applicable environmental value.

Yes


Human Consumer

The immediate receiving waterway is an ephemeral system, and there is no aquaculture production in the receiving waterway (at Lord John Creek). There is no aquaculture production directly downstream from the Condamine River and Lord John Creek junction.

The human consumption environmental value is considered inapplicable to the Site and the surrounding environment because it is a feature of the local environment

No

Secondary Recreation

Lord John Creek is an ephemeral creek system adjacent to natural vegetation and agricultural land.

There is a potential for indirect contact to humans through wading, boating or other similar recreational activities

There is a potential, but low probability, of water being swallowed.

Secondary recreation is considered an applicable EV to the local area

Yes

Visual Recreation

Lord John Creek and the Condamine River are natural waterways and are visible features for residents and visitors in the region.

Visual recreation is considered an applicable EV to the local area

Yes

Drinking Water

There are no public water supply offtakes from Lord John Creek to a water treatment plant.

Lord John Creek is an ephemeral system, and therefore it would not be a reliable supply waterway for future water supply.

Drinking water is supplied to Warwick from Leslie Dam and Connolly Dam, which are not receiving bodies from the Site.

The Condamine River in the headwaters region reports steady but relatively low flows.

Drinking water is considered as inapplicable to the local area and the Site receiving environment.

No

Industrial use Industrial users include power generation and manufacturing and mining and minerals processing. The proposed project is a mine site which is consistent with this environmental value. Industrial use environmental value is considered applicable to local region.

Yes

Cultural, Spiritual and Ceremonial Values

Lord John Creek and Condamine River are natural waterways within the local region.

Cultural, spiritual and ceremonial values considered applicable environmental values.

Yes




Table 3-7 - Water management plan

Issues and Impacts

Stormwater runoff from the facility may contain contaminants, and could affect water quality downstream and cause environmental harm if not contained on the site or appropriately managed.


The activity will be operated in a way that protects environmental values of waters.


1. There is no actual or potential discharge to waters of contaminants that may cause an adverse effect on an environmental value from the operation of the activity.


a. The storage and handling of contaminants will include effective means of secondary containment to prevent or minimise releases to the environment from spillage or leaks;

b. Contingency measures will prevent or minimise adverse effects on the environment due to unplanned releases or discharges of contaminants to water;

c. The activity will be managed so that stormwater contaminated by the activity that may cause an adverse effect on an environmental value will not leave the site without prior treatment;

d. The disturbance of any acid sulfate soil, or potential acid sulfate soil, will be managed to prevent or minimise adverse effects on environmental values;

e. Acid producing rock will be managed to ensure that the production and release of acidic waste is prevented or minimised, including impacts during operation and after the environmental authority has been surrendered;

f. Any discharge to water or a watercourse or wetland will be managed so that there will be no adverse effects due to the altering of existing flow regimes for water or a watercourse or wetland;

g. For a petroleum activity, the activity will be managed in a way that is consistent with the coal seam gas water management policy, including the prioritisation hierarchy for managing and using coal seam gas water and the prioritisation hierarchy for managing saline waste;

h. The activity will be managed so that adverse effects on environmental values are prevented or minimised.



Stormwater will be captured in sediment basins before being released to the environment

Site Manager

Water released from the site will be monitored Site Manager

Downstream water quality will be monitored during release events Site Manager

Water will only be released if the total suspended solids concentration is less than 50mg/L

Site Manager

Stormwater will be diverted around active areas to prevent contamination.

Site Manager

Stormwater velocity will be reduced where appropriate, including use of bunds, rock linings of diversion and drainage channels and maintaining flat grades wherever appropriate

Site Manager

Stripping, stockpiling and vehicle wash areas will be located away from drainage lines

Workers

Heavy earth moving activity, such as vegetation clearing, will not be undertaken during heavy rainfall

Workers

Vehicle crossings will include under road drainage for varied flow conditions

Site Manager

The use of heavy earth moving equipment will be minimised wherever possible

Workers

Water crossings will be avoided wherever possible Site Manager

All drainage, erosion and sediment management devices are to be checked weekly for the build-up of accumulated sediment.

Site Manager

Monitoring

All water quality control structures (perimeter drains, sediment pits) to be inspected after each storm event and monitoring details recorded in a site inspection checklist.

Workers

Monitoring shall be undertaken in accordance with the Monitoring and Sampling Manual developed by the Department of Environment and Resource Management 2009.

Site Manager

Workers

Water quality monitoring shall be in accordance with the Australian and New Zealand Guidelines for Fresh and Marine Water Quality (ANZECC guidelines) and Environmental Protection (Water) Policy 2009. Water quality objectives as per the Mary River environmental values and water quality objectives for moderately disturbed lowland freshwater (WQ1381).

Site Manager


Reporting

Any malfunctions of any component of the stormwater treatment train to be recorded and corrected as soon as practically possible.

Site Manager

Workers

Maintain an incident and complaints register. Evidence and records to be maintained and available for external audit for all discharges from site.

Site Manager

Corrective action

All complaints relating to water quality will be investigated promptly and appropriate actions taken.

Site Manager

Where investigations show unacceptable stormwater pollutant concentrations, revision of treatment train and management plan will be undertaken and further controls implemented as necessary.

Site Manager

3.5 Ecology

The construction and operation of the Project has the potential to negatively impact the ecology of nearby sensitive places.


The project is located within the Stanthorpe Plateau sub-region of the New England Tableland bioregion. The bioregion is characterised by a high altitude (i.e. > 800 m), granite (ademellite) bathylith geologically contiguous with NSW, often with ridgelines characterised by granite tors. Vegetation communities present within the bioregion include shrublands, mountain heaths, rock pavement gardens and sedgelands with a diverse heathland / woodland flora with affinities to southern states or coastal areas (EPA, 2006).

Regional Ecosystem mapping

Field vegetation assessments identified the following four RE communities:

RE 13.12.2 (Least concern – VM Status) – Eucalyptus andrewsii, E. youmanii, E. prava, E. deanei, Angophora floribunda, Callitris endlicheri shrubby woodland or open forest. Occurs on Mesozoic to Proterozoic igneous rocks. Rocky hillsides.

RE 13.12.4 (Of concern VM Status) – Eucalyptus caliginosa, E. tereticornis grassy open forest. Occurs on Mesozoic to Proterozoic igneous rocks. More gentle topographic situations, especially lower slopes.

RE 13.12.6 (Of concern VM status) – Shrubland and/or heath to areas of bare/lichen covered rocks +/- emergent Eucalyptus prava, E. andrewsii, E. youmanii and E. codonocarpa. Occurs on rock pavements on Mesozoic to Proterozoic igneous rocks.

RE 13.12.10 (Endangered VM status) – Eucalyptus crebra, Eucalyptus tereticornis, Angophora leiocarpa woodland. Occurs on igneous rocks.

Essential habitat mapping

Essential habitat for the following species is mapped within the study area:

Spotted tailed quoll (Dasyurus maculatus)

Powerful owl (Ninox strenua)


Conservation significant flora species

One conservation significant flora species was confirmed present within the study area: Melaleuca williamsii subsp. fletcheri. This species was previously identified at two locations within the study area, one recorded under the current name Melaleuca williamsii subsp. fletcheri and one under the species’ former name (Callistemon pungens), prior to its reclassification.

Conservation significant fauna species

Seven conservation significant species were confirmed present within the study area:

– Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) vulnerable under the EPBC Act and NC Act – Spotted-tailed quoll (Dasyurus maculatus maculatus) endangered under the EPBC Act

and vulnerable under the NC Act – Glossy black-cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus lathami) vulnerable under the NC Act – Border thick-tailed gecko (Uvidicolus sphyrurus) vulnerable under the EPBC Act – Echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus) – special least concern under the NC Act – Black-faced monarch (Monarchus melanopsis) – migratory under the EPBC Act

Two conservation significant species are likely to occur within the study area:

– Powerful owl (Ninox strenua) vulnerable under the NC Act – Grey-headed flying-fox (Pteropus poliocephalus) vulnerable under the EPBC Act



Table 3-8 - Ecology management plan

Issues and Impacts

Direct loss of vegetation

Direct injury or mortality of wildlife

Indirect habitat fragmentation

Loss of habitat connectivity and opportunities for fauna movement

Distribution of wildlife behaviour through light, noise and vibration

Habitat degradation


The activity is operated in a way that protects the environmental values of land including soils, subsoils, landforms and associated flora and fauna.


1. There is no adverse effect on local ecology from the operation of the activity.

2. Contingency measures will prevent or minimise adverse effects on the environment and ecology from unplanned operations.


3. Activities that disturb land, soil, subsoils, landforms and associated flora and fauna will be managed in a way that prevents or minimises adverse effects on the environmental values of land.

4. The activity will be managed to prevent or minimise adverse effects on the environmental values of land due to unplanned releases or discharges, including spills and leaks of contaminants.

5. The application of water or waste to the land is sustainable and is managed to prevent or minimise adverse effects on the composition or structure of soils and subsoils.


Pre-clearance surveys will be undertaken to mark the locations of all potential breeding places for wildlife and the locations of any breeding places for conservation significant species.

Site Manager

Pre-clearance surveys will specifically target areas of potential habitat for conservation significant species that have the potential to occur within the clearing footprint e.g. spotted-tailed quoll

Site Manager

Preparation of a high risk Species Management Program (SMP) will be undertaken in accordance with the requirements of Section 332 of the Nature Conservation (Wildlife Management) Regulation.

Site Manager

All clearing will be supervised by suitably qualified and experienced fauna spotter-catchers.

Site Manager

Any resident fauna found inside the clearing footprint will be relocated to the nearest suitable, safe habitat outside the clearing area.

Site Manager

Sequential clearing practices, in accordance with guidelines for reducing impact on koalas, will be employed.

Site Manager

The width of the haul road will be minimised to the smallest, safe operation width and will be located along the existing access track wherever possible

Site Manager

The haul road will have an enforced speed limit of 40 km/hr. Workers

The mine and haul road will only operate within daylight hours. Workers

All trucks travelling along the haul road will have covered loads. Workers

Stockpiling and laydown areas will be located in cleared areas. Workers

Cleared areas will be stabilised as soon as practicable. Workers

The footprint of mine extraction operations and cleared areas will be kept to a minimum.

Site Manager

Workers

Progressive rehabilitation will be undertaken throughout the life of the mine.

Site Manager


Habitat connectivity will be maximised within the project site, where appropriate.

Site Manager

Construction operations will occur only during daylight hours. Workers

Site lighting will be installed to meet minimum safety and construction operation requirements.

Site Manager

Broadband reversing alarms will be utilised, in replacement of beepers, during construction and operation

Site Manager

Plant and equipment will be regularly maintained. Site Manager

Workers

A Weed Management Plan will be prepared for the project and include hygiene protocols requiring the weed-free certification of construction machinery and plant at the commencement of construction.

Site Manager

The Weed Management Plan will also include hygiene protocols restricting the movement of vegetation and soil between impacted areas and areas of significantly lower weed infestation.

Site Manager

An Erosion and Sediment Control Plan will be developed as part of the Construction CEMP for the project. This will include the installation and maintenance of sediment fences, detention basins and necessary diversions, where required.

Site Manager

Stockpiles will be designed to minimise erosion risk. Workers

Progressive rehabilitation of rock benches will be undertaken to minimise exposed soil.

Workers

Construction and operation will be temporarily controlled during extreme weather events.

Workers

Rock drills will have appropriate dust extraction systems or utilise wet drilling.

Site Manager

Cleared areas will be stabilised as soon as practicable. Workers

Monitoring

Undertake inspections / observations of environmental and ecological conditions (habitat connectivity, SMP etc.) at the facility on a regular basis. Record findings and action any issues.

Site Manager

Monitoring will be undertaken in the form of a complaints register. Where complaints are received, an investigation will be undertaken on the activities undertaken at the time of the complaint.

Site manager

Reporting

Any observations or evidence of ecological issues will be reported to the Site Manager.

Workers


Maintain an incident and complaints register. Complaints to be recorded using the complaint record form and record of complaint retained on file.

Site Manager

Corrective action

All complaints or issues in relation to ecology shall be investigated. Monitoring will be undertaken and the complaint will be addressed using appropriate measures. Authorised activities will not result in further environmental nuisance.

Site Manager

Appropriate control measures shall be implemented in a timely manner where ecological issues are identified or possess the potential to occur in the future.

Site Manager

3.6 Other

3.6.1 Bushfire Management Plan

Issues and Impacts

Inadequate bushfire management can result in high fire risk and bushfire occurrence.

Performance objectives

Compliance with the Southern Downs Regional Council Planning Scheme 2012 and the Queensland State Planning Policy 2016, including; adequate onsite water storage, access and protection of infrastructure and community uses.

Performance indicators

All activities to be managed in accordance with the Southern Downs Regional Council Planning Scheme 2012 and the Queensland State Planning Policy 2016.

No complaints are received from regulatory authorities or the community in relation to bushfire management issues.


Firebreaks will be created in extraction, processing and stockpiling areas on site and will act as the main fire mitigation measure.

Site Manager

Additional firebreaks will be created along ridgeline areas. Site Manager

All firebreaks will be regularly maintained and cleared of vegetation. Workers

The main water storage dam on-site will be sufficiently maintained and used to assist with fire-fighting efforts via the site water truck or rural fire brigade.

Site Manager

Workers

The water tanks located near the office and storage shed will be fitted with appropriate fittings for rural fire brigade use.

Site Manager


Monitoring

Monitoring of firebreaks will be undertaken every quarter to ensure regrowth of vegetation has not impacted on the effectiveness of the firebreaks

Workers

Reporting

N/A

Corrective Action

Review the operational activity that was being undertaken at the time and identify whether additional bushfire controls are required, such as the creation of additional firebreak areas or servicing or replacement of water storage equipment and fittings.

Site Manager

Appropriate bushfire control measures shall be implemented in a timely manner where firebreaks are maintained and issued are identified and rectified.

Site Manager

3.6.2 Visual Amenity Management Plan

Issues and Impacts

Visual amenity will not be affected due to the ridgelines surrounding and effectively ‘screening’ the mine location.


Visual amenity is not negatively affected by the facility.


No complaints are received in relation to visual amenity of the facility.


No control measures are necessary for visual amenity management as the natural topography provides visual barrier from sensitive receptors.

Monitoring

N/A

Reporting

A record of complaints will be kept on site. If complaints associated with visual amenity continue to be received an investigation will be undertaken to determine the cause

Site Manager

Corrective Action

No corrective actions are necessary for visual amenity management.


3.6.3 Pest and Weed Management Plan

Issues and Impacts

Inappropriate management of pests and weeds can negatively affect other species of flora and fauna and result in outbreaks of invasive species.


To eradicate or control of weeds and pests in accordance with the Queensland Biosecurity Act 2014.


No weeds or pest concerns are identified within the facility.


Appropriate weed treatment and control measures will be undertaken including both chemical spraying and mechanical methods such as slashing.

Workers

Weed hygiene will be incorporated into site specific inductions. Site Manager

Vehicles will be adequately cleaned-down prior to entering haul road and exiting mining area where practical.

Workers

Appropriate pest control measures will be undertaken including and biological controls and containment of waste as food sources.

Workers

Monitoring

NA

Reporting

NA

Corrective Action

Outbreaks or concerns regarding weeds and pests shall be investigated promptly and appropriate control actions identified and executed.


3.6.4 Rehabilitation Management Plan

Issues and Impacts

Facility establishment and operations can create issues regarding overall disturbed areas, topsoil management, native vegetation and weed management.


Eliminate or minimise erosion in areas where facility operations occur.

Maintain quality and quantity of topsoil material.

Regenerate native vegetation in accordance with the site rehabilitation program and Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.

Eradicate or control identified weeds in accordance with the ‘Weed Control Methods’ issued by the Department of Primary Industries & Fisheries (DPI) and the Queensland Biodiversity Act 2014.


Erosion is controlled for facility operations.

Topsoil quality and quantity is maintained and seedbanks remain fertile.

Native vegetation is adequately regenerated site-wide.

No weeds or pest concerns are identified within the facility.


Where earthmoving is required appropriate erosion control measures will be implemented including diversion bunds, contour drains, table drains with rock bars and if required temporary erosion controls such as sediment fences.

Workers

Only areas that required for operation will be disturbed Workers

Topsoil will be stockpiled for a maximum of 12 months only. Workers

Topsoil will only be handled once to prevent losses, where appropriate.

Workers

Native vegetation will be regenerated and consistently monitored in accordance with the site rehabilitation program.

Site Manager

Vehicles/plant that have come in contact with contaminated soil or noxious weeds will be washed down prior to leaving site.

Workers

Appropriate weed treatment and control measures will be undertaken including both chemical spraying and mechanical methods such as slashing.

Workers


Monitoring

Review the operational activity and identify whether additional erosion controls are required, such as the creation of additional drainage contours or temporary erosion controls.

Site Manager

Where investigations show unacceptable topsoil control and seed bank sterilisation, revision of management plan will be undertaken and further controls implemented as necessary.

Site Manager

Where investigations show unacceptable native vegetation regeneration, revision of management plan will be undertaken and further controls implemented as necessary.

Site Manager

Outbreaks or concerns regarding weeds will be investigated promptly and appropriate control actions executed.

Site Manager

weed monitoring will be undertaken in the form of monthly observations by the site personnel

Workers

Reporting

A log book will be maintained on site where the site manager will record the outcomes from the monitoring.

Site Manager

Corrective action

NA


4. Environmental Management 4.1 Financial assurance

Joyful View will provide to the administering authority financial assurance in accordance with the Environmental Authority prior to commencement of mining activities.

4.2 Granite mining

The proposed mine will produce approximately 8,000 tonnes of dimension stone product annually from within the nominated extraction area.

4.2.1 Maintenance of measures, plant and equipment

Joyful View will install all measures, plant and equipment necessary for compliance with the EA. The mining activities will take place generally in accordance with the ISO14001 Standard for Environmental Management Systems (EMS).

The EMS will be the cornerstone of Joyful View’s due-diligence approach to environmental management, and encompasses the measures and tools used to prevent or minimise environmental harm, ensure compliance and promote continuous improvement.

4.2.2 Monitoring and records

Environmental monitoring and records management will occur in accordance with the requirements of the Environmental Authority and this EMP.

Ongoing environmental monitoring during mining activities will including surface water quality, groundwater quality and levels, particulate and dust deposition and rehabilitation success. Other monitoring, which will be undertaken periodically or in response to complaints, will include noise, vibration, odour and landfill gas. Commitments and control strategies have been included in the relevant sections of this EMP.

4.2.3 Reporting

Joyful View aims to provide timely, relevant and appropriately presented information to government authorities, the local community and the general public on the environmental performance of the mine.

Reporting commitments under the Environmental Authority and other legislation will be complied with.

4.2.4 Notification of emergencies and Incidents

The mining activities will take place under an environmental management system (EMS) which will be developed to conform to the ISO14001 Standard. The EMS will include procedures that describe how the notification of emergencies and incidents will be provided to the administering authority within the 24 hour timeframe specified in the Environmental Authority.

4.2.5 Risk management

Joyful View will implement the mining activities under a risk management system for mining activities that conforms to the Standard for Risk Management (ISO3100:2009).

4.2.6 Activity

Joyful View is committed to keeping environmental harm to minimum practicable levels. All land subject to mining will be rehabilitated to a safe, stable and self-sustaining land form.


4.3 Staff training

Joyful View will ensure that employees, contractors and visitors receive appropriate environmental awareness training. This will be achieved through a variety of methods including induction training, formal training of relevant personnel, presentations at meetings, and toolbox meetings.

Specifically Joyful View will require that employees, contactors and visitors are aware of:

Their roles and responsibilities (including environmental incident reporting)

The environmental impacts, potential or actual, or their activities on site

The potential consequences of poor environmental performance

Site emergency procedures

GHD

Level 9 145 Ann Street T: 61 7 3316 3000 F: 61 7 3316 3333 E: [email protected]

© GHD 2019

This document is and shall remain the property of GHD. The document may only be used for the purpose for which it was commissioned and in accordance with the Terms of Engagement for the commission. Unauthorised use of this document in any form whatsoever is prohibited. 4132137-71115/https://projects.ghd.com/oc/sqoc2/cherrabahgranitemine/Delivery/Documents/EAR and EA application/4132137_Report_EM Plan docx.docx

Document Status

Revision Author Reviewer Approved for Issue Name Signature Name Signature Date

1 B Laxman G Squires S Wilson 29/03/2019