Re: Berwick Health and Education Precinct Native Vegetation Assessment (excluding Southern Drain) Methods. 21 December 2016

Transcription

1 21 December 2016 Belinda Smith Strategic Planning Manager Victorian Planning Authority Level 25, 35 Collins Street, Melbourne MELBOURNE VIC Re: Berwick Health and Education Precinct Native Vegetation Assessment (excluding Southern ain) Project no Dear Belinda, Biosis Pty Ltd. was commissioned by the Victorian Planning Authority (VPA) to provide advice on the extent and condition of native vegetation within the Berwick Health and Education Precinct (BHEP), Berwick (Figure 1). This assessment must be read in conjunction with Appendix 3 to this report, Berwick Health and Education Precinct- Vegetation assessment - Southern ain (Biosis Letter Report, 05/05/2015). Methods The assessment was undertaken on 18 November 2016 and a list of plant species observed was collected (#U00J5ZR1). This list will be submitted to the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) for incorporation into the Victorian Biodiversity Atlas. Planted species have not been recorded unless they are naturalised. Native vegetation is defined in the Victoria Planning Provisions as 'plants that are indigenous to Victoria, including trees, shrubs, herbs and grasses' (Clause 72). The Guidelines classify native vegetation into two categories (DEPI 2013): A remnant patch of native vegetation (measured in hectares) is either: Biosis Pty Ltd Melbourne Resource Group An area of native vegetation, with or without trees, where at least 25 percent of the total perennial understorey cover is native plants. An area with three or more indigenous canopy trees where the tree canopy cover is at least 20 percent. Remnant patch vegetation is classified into ecological vegetation classes (EVCs). An EVC contains one or more floristic (plant) communities, and represents a grouping of broadly similar environments. Definitions of EVCs and benchmarks (condition against which vegetation quality at the site can be compared) are determined by DELWP. A scattered tree is defined as (extent measured by number of trees): An indigenous canopy tree that does not form part of a remnant patch of native vegetation. 38 Bertie Street Phone: ACN Port Melbourne VIC 3207 Fax: ABN melbourne@biosis.com.au biosis.com.au

2 Elm Ct Avenue Ct Gretel Pl Tingle Cl Jarrah Ct Argus Ct Song St Albens Ct Coventry Rd CaulfieldCt Silver Birch Ct Hansford Ct Herald Ct Fern Way Angus Ct Salinger Lane Hilltop Moonbeam Cl Pad stow C t Winnie Ct Lasiandra Cct Keys Ct Lancaster Av Wesley Palm er Jindalee Ct D r Sou th ern Bvd Littlecroft Av Narre Warren North Rd Victor Floret Pl Verdun Sabre Ct Promenade The Balwyn Ct Meadow Pl Century Rd Teesdale Ct Chesil Ct Sollya Ct Gardenia Ct Pinnata Pl The Maples The Oaks Princes Hwy Rosemont Cl Hillbrick Ct St Joh ns C t Plymtree Ct Crowley Av The Elms St Jam es Ct Vegas Ct AvishaWay Whitehall Ct Piccadilly St Ives Rd Kurrajong Kallara Saxonwood Cypress Hill Cr Norfolk Sherbrooke Ct Sham rock Cl Gra n d view Tce Burgundy Way Kim Cl M a itla nd St Azure Pl Rad iata R ise Cr Wauchope Av Gumnut Ct Prestige Pl Walton Ct Rolstone Ct Sweeney Ct Monterey Ct Ferny Ct Ch e rry Tree La ne Monash Fwy Upton Cr Fleetwood The W o od ru sh C t The Quadrant Mulga Rise Oxford Ct Torino Cl Cremona Pl Dianthus Ct Toptani Eucalpyt Ct Magdalena Pl Tussock St Sheffield Ct Messina Pl Buttonwood Ct Ct Boree Shearer Ct W im m era Woodrow Ct H icko ry D r The Hallam Main ain Legend Heritage Study area Shinners Woodley St Federation Ct Oscar Ct Dillya Ct Sage Pl Dell St NandinaR d San Rem o Ct Curringa Cl Perrott Pl Immy Pde Viewm oun t Ct Rahni Cl Evergold Cl Kippenross Braybrook A ura ria Cl Penny Lane Fairview Av HillcrestAv Hanley St Toulouse Tce Ct Culmara Ct Dulkara Pl Gateway Darling Coowarra Tralee Cct Ardblair Berwick Acknowledgement: VicMap Data State of Victoria Wood Rd Av Bundoora Ct Messmate Ct Basano Rtt Lavender Pl Beldale Ct Sallyb ro o k Cct Konac Ct Stringybark Koorang Pl Birch Ct Pen d ula C t Nadeen St Tarrangow er Pl W ay Lantana Aurea Ct Tce Nangwarry Ct Wattlebird Ct Bewley Way Melba St Ellen Armitage Avendon Ct Dylan Ct Parkhill W ay Berwick Town ain Tilba Ct AlbertaWay Parish Ct Caledonia Ct Melaleuca Ct A ttunga Ct Ct Euroa Av Magarra Cr Bowen Ct Argyle Ct Melzak Way Larne Cl Jeune Gr Cullen Cl Cooma Ct Hessell Rd Florence Av Clark Ct Walsh Rtt Rodlarni Cr Eglinton Cl Centre Rd The Springs Prom Q uays Rd Cribb Cove Sturrock Ct Kalastaire Gr Lexcen Cl Golf Links Rd Greaves Rd The The Springs Cl Jerilderie Princes Hwy Esplanade Sach iko Pl Ezard Cl Cam bridge C t D a lpu ra Avebury Watson Gdns Civic Pl Central Tce South Tce Orsino Pl Glenn Erin Way Euston Ct Lorikeet Sheldon Shane Ct Logan Pl Bertrand Cl D un ne ll Rise Collins Cr Els Ct Celeste Ct East Tce Madden Rtt Hatten Pl Max Prim e C t Kuranda Cr Turella Harm on Cl Homestead Rd Berwick Springs Ernst Wanke Cl Bree Ct Roxby Maryn Cl Rd Telford Bellevue Lodge Dom ain Julius Ct Chin Ct Stephanie Cl Gargeney Ct Oakhill Ct Carter Ganaway Glover Ct Hyland Ct Grenville Ct Wilm ott Cl Brewster St JackW illiam W ay Lia A m ie P l Natren Ct Ct Harley Thirlmere Ct Yemaya Pl Jianni Way Blue Wren Pl Hillview Pl Fieldhouse Lane Pendulum Pl Clocktower Ct Jam ieson Way Moondarra William Rd Cr Whistler Fantail Way Jim Ct Tarago Ct Petrel Pl Barellan Mews Willunga Ct Ashford Ct Ct M ansfield Sing Gwendoline Summer Ct Chong Ct Stefan Mondous Ct Buffalo Ct Gellibrand Ct Eucumbene Denison Ct Hasken Ct Tottington Rise Marida Ct Riverglen Rd Mallard St Werona Ct Ambleside Cr Marsh Gr Balfour Ct PenrithCt Bushlark Ct Moloney Ct Raneen Pl Cr Derwent Ct Warrock Ct Ashfield Michelle St Deauville Ct Millwood Av Intrepid Tum ut Ct Barina Ayr Ct Golf Links Rd Tyrell Pl Pioneer Ct Tamara Cl Caserta Queens Ct St M argaret Martin Ct Grove Gdns Norham Ct Carluke Cl Nyon Pl Clyde Rd Kingsm ill Tce M araleect Viewpoint Pl Selkirk Ct Lords Rise Selby Ct Hayman St Bernly Bvd Denham Pl Chiltern Ct Shute Richardson Gr Kelso Pl Neilian Rtt Highvale Panoram ic Royston Av Rheanva St St York Rd W illslie Bournevale Wilson Hill County Clyde Rd Evan St Clyde Rd Cr Hedgeley Cresthaven Bvd Ridgem ont M cnabb Av Adams Lane Gibb St Yarrow Ct Hillgrove Cr The Oval Old Coach Rd Fiddlers Grn O rch ard Sq W arw ick Augustus Hilda Ct Montham Cl Cr Tce Outlook R eserve M ildura St Russel St Harkaway Rd Gloucester Av Av Cheviot Av C t Rydaldene Way Lauder Pl Adare Ct Gardiner St Fiddlers Grn Bemersyde Skyline Way Ararat Ham ilton Sw an Hill Warrn amb ool Roundhay Lyall Hall Ct Marina Ct Yardley Ct M athoura Ct Duke St CASEY Echuca CITY Hazeldene Ct Rd Wilson St GranthamCr Miller St M arg arets Pl Jo h n Gair Cl Wilona Way Ettrick Pl Ct Spencer Ct Vivienne Kerang Berwick Rutland Rd St Astrid Ct Albrecht Clendon St Holder Pl Graneel High St Haverbrack Embling St Cord Cl M elville Fish er Kangan Princes Fwy Oshea Rd Kerferd Reid M ews Linton Ct Bain St Renwarl Cl Fin do n W a y Ellesse Way St G r Edwardes St Strathavan Way View grand Peel St Beaumont Rd Av Dorian Cl GladeCt Ambrose Ct April Cl Park Deakin C t Canning Church St Edrington Fairholm e Chirnside Rd Grasmere Creek Streeton Riviera Albu ry Wangaratta Be ndigo M ansfield Ba llarat M elbou rn e Geelong Tra ralgon Buchanan Rd Landra Ct Tabak Ct Pagebrook Rd Ascot Rise Lakewood Pl Bishop Pl Scanlan St High St Kruger St Higinbotham Rise Shannon Killarney Ct SumnerCt Lincoln Av Oconnell St Buchanan Rd Lakes Denmark Hill Rd Duffy Ct Warne Pl Panmure Ct Roxy Cl Daventry Ct Southgate Mcilwraith Ct Dunmore Pl Inglis Rd R e gin ald Michael Ct C l Way Valda Palmerston St Park Bvd Turner St Neill St Whisken Way Kenny Ct Hudson St Allira Cl Jamie Mews Boynton Pl Cl Avard Ct M an durah Ch Packard St Mallaig Cloverfield Cl Piermont Way Entra nce Cr Marisa Howell Soldiers Rd Cann Rive r Slingsby Innes Ct Bryn Rise Grasmere Creek M awr Bvd Sue Pl Strahan Cl Manuka Rd Av Kingsm ere Kelly M ews Ex ford Pl Earlsfield Biosis Pty Ltd Ballarat, B risbane, Canberra, H obart, M elbourne, Newcastle, Sydney, Wangaratta & Wollongong Figure 1: Location of the study area - Berw ick, Victoria Matter: 23541, Date: 13 December 2016, Checked by: SN, awn by: AC, Last edited by: acurtis Location:P:\23500s\23541\M apping\23541_prop_f1_locality_autogen ± ,000 M etres Scale A4, GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55

3 Enterprise Av Craig Watson Gdns Collins Cr Madden Rtt Daniher Cl Ambleside Cr Windemere St Derwent Ct Margaret St Evan St Mildura Jane St Clyde Rd Swan Hill Kerang Wodonga Bendigo Stawell Mansfield Ballarat Hamilton Lakes Entrance Warrnambool Morwell Intrepid St Legend Venture Southern ain(bios is leterreport, 05/05/2015) Princes Fwy CASEY CITY Cadell Pl Rodlarni Cr Orsino Pl Glenisla Way Els Ct Turella Cl Dempster Way Prime Ct MelzakWay Clyde Rd Kangan Native Vegetation As s es s ment Excluding s outherndrain (Bios is leter report, 21/12/2016) Fig 1B. Study area locations within the Berwick Health and Education Precinct Bellevue Acknowledgements: Vicmap State of Victoria Chin Ct Sing Cr Golf Links Rd Gwendoline Cindy Ct Chong Ct Stefan County Golf Links Rd Clyde Rd Metres Scale: A4 Coordinate System: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55 Biosis Pty Ltd Ballarat, Brisbane, Canberra, Hobart, Melbourne, Newcastle, Sydney, Wangaratta & Wollongong ± Matter: 23541, Date: 13 February 2017, Checked by: SN, awn by: SSK, Last edited by: snerenberg Location:P:\23500s\23541\Mapping\ 23541_F1B_StudyAreas

4 A canopy tree is a mature tree that is greater than three metres in height and is normally found in the upper layer of a vegetation type. Ecological vegetation class descriptions provide a list of the typical canopy species. A condition score and extent is applied to each scattered tree based on information provided by DELWP's NVIM. Species nomenclature for flora follows the Flora Information System (2016). Results: Vegetation of the study area is not mapped as native vegetation according to DELWP's mapping (see the 2005 EVC layer in the Biodiversity Interactive Map 3.2), with the original vegetation (pre 1750) identified as a mosaic of Plains Grassland (EVC 132) and Plains Grassy Woodland (EVC 55) with low lying areas supporting a mosaic of Swampy Riparian Woodland (EVC 83) and Swamp Scrub (EVC 53). Small remnants of this mosaic are identified by DELWP along the Princes Freeway at the southern boundary of the study area. The pre-1750 vegetation of this site would have varied throughout the study area according to topography and soil type. Typically, woodland vegetation types would have had an open canopy of River Red-gum Eucalyptus camaldulensis or Swamp Gum Eucalyptus ovata and Narrow-leaf Peppermint Eucalyptus radiata. The understorey typically consisted of shrubs including Black Wattle Acacia mearnsii, Blackwood Acacia melanoxylon, Swamp Paperbark Melaleuca ericifolia and Black Sheoak Allocasuarina littoralis that overtop a species-rich grassy and herbaceous ground layer. Grassland areas would have been dominated by native perennial grasses such as Kangaroo Grass Themda triandra and Wallaby-grass Rytidosperma spp., interspersed with a diversity of herbs. Low-lying areas would have formed seasonal wetlands dominated by semi-aquatic herbaceous vegetation like sedges (Carex spp. ) and rushes (Juncus spp.). The vegetation throughout the study area is highly modified from its original condition and degraded due to the extensive land clearing that has occurred within Berwick and its surrounds. Overall, the condition of the vegetation is poor due to a lack of canopy trees, loss of native species diversity, and the presence of a high cover of weeds, including a number of noxious weeds such as Blackberry Rubus anglocandicans and Gorse Ulex europaeus (Appendix 1). Most of the study area comprises lawn areas with planted amenity vegetation within the Monash campus and destocked paddocks adjacent to the campus supporting exotic pasture (e.g. Toowoomba Canary Grass Phalaris aquatic and Ryegrass Lolium rigidum) and weeds. Two constructed hydrological features are also included in the study area: an unnamed drainage line draining into the southern drain and a farm dam, which is currently fenced, with access provided by Monash security. Notwithstanding the above, the site inspection confirms the presence of four patches of native vegetation as defined above. These are mapped in Figure 2a and 2b and described below. These are referred to as Habitat Zones (HZ) and they cover a total area of 0.93 ha. Outside of these patches, native vegetation persists as scattered understorey trees such as Silver Wattle Acacia dealbata and Blackwood and Black Wattle (Figure 2b). HZ1. Plains Grassland. These patches are near a sports field and around the dam. They contain no canopy species or shrubs but the perennial component of the ground-layer vegetation includes native grasses consistent with Plains Grassland (Weeping Grass Microlena stipoides, Wallaby-grass and Blown Grass Lachnogrostis filiformis) so has been assessed as a treeless vegetation type. The characteristic herbs of this EVC are no longer present but some native herbs such as Willow Herb Epilobium hirtigerum, Loosetrife Lythrum hyssopifolia, Crane's Bill Geranium sp. and Cotton Fireweed Senecio quadridentatus persist. Weed species typical for the EVC are also found throughout the patch including Cat's Ear Hypochoeris radicata, Toowoomba Canary Grass Phalaris aquatica, Spear Thistle Cirsium vulgare and Ribwort Plantago lanceolata. Biosis 2015 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 4

5 HZ2. Plains Grassy Wetland. Habitat Zone 2 patch is a small constructed drainage channel that drains into the southern drain. The native vegetation of this patch was observed to largely consist of herbaceous semi-aquatic species including Knob sedge Carex inversa, rushes Juncus spp., Narrow-leaf Cumbungi Typha domingensis and Slender Knotweed Persicaria decipiens. Common Onion-orchid Microtis unifolia was also found. High weed cover was also present in the patch including Umbrella Sedge Cyperus eragrostis, Cocksfoot Dactylis glomerata, Toowoomba Canary Grass, Blue Pigroot Sisyrinchium iridifolium and Pampas Grass Cortaderia selloana. The vegetation was assessment as treeless vegetation and scattered wattles mapped near the patch were not included in the assessment. HZ3. Plains Grassy Woodland. Habitat Zone 3 is contiguous with the southern drain section previously assessed by Biosis but is separated from the drain by fencing. While none of the characteristic Plains Grassy Woodland canopy species were found in the patch, understorey trees such as Black Wattle and Blackwood and high native perennial ground-layer consistent with this EVC were still present. The quality of the ground-layer varied throughout the patch but in places was dominated by Spear Grass Austrostipa rudis with almost 100% cover. Other native perennial grass species observed were Kangaroo Grass, Weeping Grass and Common Tussockgrass Poa labillardieri. Some native herbs also persisted including Pale Flax-lily Dianella longifolia and Grassland Wood-sorrel Oxalis perennans. The ground-layer was degraded in places by the presence of noxious weeds such as Blackberry and Gorse and the invasion of pasture species from the adjoining paddock. HZ4. Plains Grassy Woodland. Habitat Zone 4 is formed by a mid-layer of Black Wattle consistent with remnants of a Plains Grassy Woodland understorey but the ground-layer and canopy trees of the EVC are no longer present. Instead, the ground-layer is mostly weed and pasture species and includes a high cover of noxious weeds (Blackberry and Gorse). These infestations smother other vegetation and prevent many other species from recolonising the site. Biosis 2015 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 5

6 Ambleside Cr Princes Hwy Berwick High St 1 CASEY CITY 2 3 Princes Fwy Legend EVC Plains Grassy Woodland H ha Enterprise Av Figure 2C.1: Berwick Health and Education Precinct - Ecological features of the study areas Metres Scale: A3 Coordinate System: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55 ± Biosis Pty Ltd Ballarat, Brisbane, Canberra, Hobart, Melbourne, Newcastle, Sydney, Wangaratta & Wollongong Acknowledgements: State Government of Victoria - VicMap - Nearmap Matter: 23541, Date: 13 February 2017, Checked by: SN, awn by: SSK, Last edited by: snerenberg Location:\\biosisresearch.local\BIO-

7 HZ ha HZ ha Princes Hwy Berwick HZ ha 1 High St CASEY CITY 2 3 Princes Fwy Legend EVC Plains Grassy Woodland Plains Grassland ha HZ ha ha ha ha ha Princes Fwy Melzak Way Figure 2C.2: Berwick Health and Education Precinct - Ecological features of the study areas Sing Cr Cindy Ct Chong Ct Metres Scale: A3 Coordinate System: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55 ± Biosis Pty Ltd Ballarat, Brisbane, Canberra, Hobart, Melbourne, Newcastle, Sydney, Wangaratta & Wollongong Acknowledgements: State Government of Victoria - VicMap - Nearmap Matter: 23541, Date: 13 February 2017, Checked by: SN, awn by: SSK, Last edited by: snerenberg Location:\\biosisresearch.local\BIO-

8 Princes Hwy Berwick High St 1 CASEY CITY Kangan 2 3 Princes Fwy Legend EVC Plains Grassy Woodland HZ ha Plains Grassy Wetland Plains Grassland HZ ha Clyde Rd HZ ha HZ ha HZ ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha Figure 2C.3: Berwick Health and Education Precinct - Ecological features of the study areas Metres Scale: A3 Coordinate System: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55 ± ha Biosis Pty Ltd Ballarat, Brisbane, Canberra, Hobart, Melbourne, Newcastle, Sydney, Wangaratta & Wollongong Acknowledgements: State Government of Victoria - VicMap - Nearmap Matter: 23541, Date: 13 February 2017, Checked by: SN, awn by: SSK, Last edited by: snerenberg Location:\\biosisresearch.local\BIO-

9 Princes Hwy High St Berwick High St CASEY CITY Princes Fwy Legend Study Area Scattered Understorey Tree Plains Grassy Woodland Plains Grassy Wetland Plains Grassland Figure 2B: Berwick Health and Education Precinct - Ecological features of the study area Metres Scale: A3 Coordinate System: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55 ± Biosis Pty Ltd Ballarat, Brisbane, Canberra, Hobart, Melbourne, Newcastle, Sydney, Wangaratta & Wollongong Acknowledgements: State Government of Victoria - VicMap - Nearmap Matter: 23541, Date: 21 December 2016, Checked by: SN, awn by: LH, Last edited by: snerenberg Location:\\biosisresearch.local\BIO-

10 Condition and health of native vegetation The extent of native vegetation patches was mapped within the study area (Figure 2) and the condition was assessed in relation to standard methods provided by DSE (2004). The condition of native vegetation was assessed using the DSE Vegetation Quality Assessment Sheet (DSE 2004) and pre-determined EVC benchmarks: DELWP's Native Vegetation Information Management system was also used to determine vegetation extent and condition. Native vegetation patches were assessed as remnants of the EVCs described above. Habitat hectares As noted above, for the purpose of determining vegetation condition, patches are termed habitat zones. Each EVC was assessed as a separate habitat zone. Some habitat zones consist of multiple patches of the same EVC with the same vegetation quality. Where there was a visually assessed difference in 2 or more habitat components, EVCs were divided into separate habitat zones as per DSE (2004). The condition score of the habitat zone is multiplied by the extent of the zone to give a value in Habitat hectares. Scores allocated to each of the four habitat zones identified within the study area are outlined in Table 1. Total habitat hectares across all HZs is as calculated below. Table 1: Native vegetation Habitat hectares calculations for the BHEP (excluding Southern ain) Habitat Zone ID EVC #: Name Site Condition Landscape Value Max Score PG (132) PGWet (125) PGW (55) PGW (55) Score Score Score Score Total Large Old Trees 10 NA NA 0 0 Canopy Cover 5 NA NA 0 0 Lack of Weeds Understorey Recruitment Organic Matter Logs 5 NA NA 0 0 Treeless standardiser NA NA Total Site Score Patch Size Neighbourhood Distance to Core Total Landscape Score HABITAT SCORE Habitat points = #/ Habitat Zone area (ha) Habitat Hectares (Hha) Notes to table: NA = Not Applicable, PG = Plains Grassland, PGW = Plains Grassy Woodland, PGWet = Plains Grassy Wetland Biosis 2015 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 10

11 Vegetation Health Native vegetation within the study area did not appear to be impacted by any obvious diseases or was otherwise impacted by any obvious insect attack which reduced or would otherwise lead to a conclusion that the vegetation present was in poor health. The two main wattle species present, Blackwood and Black Wattle, were present as a range of age cohorts and appeared to be present as naturally sustaining populations. Some scattered wattles appear to be reaching the end of their natural lifespans and are beginning to die off (senesce). Implications of the Assessment Any clearing of native vegetation within the study area may require a permit under the Planning and Environment Act Applications for the clearing of native vegetation are regulated under Victoria's Biodiversity Assessment Guidelines (DEPI 2013) (the Guidelines). DELWP classify most of the study area as Location A although parts of the study area boundary along Princes Freeway is identified as Location B and Location C. If the study area is proposed to be impacted by development which would result in the clearing of native vegetation then it is likely that proposal would be assessed under the high risk pathway. This assessment includes relevant information for such an application. Native vegetation patches are subject to offset requirements under a planning permit application, however, the total habitat hectares of the site is very low. Scattered understorey trees outside of patches would still be subject to a planning permit application should they need to be removed but offsets would not be required. Conclusion We assessed four habitat zones to be patches of native vegetation as defined under Victoria's Biodiversity Assessment Guidelines. Remaining woody species that formed these remnants appeared to be healthy and were recruiting. The presence of noxious weeds, generally high weed cover and lack of canopy trees in treed EVCs reduced the condition of most of the native vegetation. Outside of native patches, native vegetation was present only as scattered understorey trees in various stages from seedlings to aging. Remaining areas were paddocks and lawns of mostly introduced species. The patches of native vegetation identified occupy a total of 0.93 ha. This native vegetation is considered to be degraded in condition and was assessed to have low habitat scores between 14/100 and 37/100. The vegetation therefore represents a total of habitat hectares. NB. This is additional to the 0.13 ha identified in the previous report to make a total of habitat hectares for the Berwick HEP. Clearing of native vegetation patches and understorey trees would require a permit under the Planning and Environment Act and it is likely this application would be required to satisfy the information requirements defined under the high risk-based pathway defined by the Guidelines. This report provides the relevant data for any such application. Please contact me on or if you would like to discuss further. Yours sincerely, Steve Mueck Senior Consultant Botanist Biosis 2015 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 11

12 References DEPI Permitted clearing of native vegetation - Biodiversity assessment guidelines. Victorian Government Department of Environment and Primary Industries, Melbourne (September 2013). DSE Native Vegetation: Sustaining a living landscape. Vegetation Quality Assessment Manual Guidelines for applying the Habitat hectares scoring method. Version 1.3. Victorian Government Department of Sustainability & Environment, Melbourne. Biosis 2015 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 12

13 Appendix 1: Flora Table A1.1. Flora species (35 native, 67 weeds) recorded from the study area. Status Scientific Name Common Name Indigenous species Acacia dealbata Silver Wattle P Acacia mearnsii Black Wattle Acacia melanoxylon Blackwood Alisma plantago-aquatica Water Plantain Austrostipa rudis Veined Spear-grass Carex inversa Knob Sedge P Cassinia arcuata ooping Cassinia P Cotula australis Common Cotula Cynodon dactylon Couch Dianella longifolia s.l. Pale Flax-lily Eleocharis acuta Common Spike-sedge Epilobium hirtigerum Hairy Willow-herb Gahnia spp. Saw Sedge Geranium spp. Crane's Bill Isolepis hookeriana Grassy Club-sedge Juncus bufonius Toad Rush Juncus sp. (subgenus Genuini) Rush Lachnagrostis filiformis s.l. Common Blown-grass Lemna spp. Duckweed Lomandra longifolia Spiny-headed Mat-rush Lythrum hyssopifolia Small Loosestrife Melaleuca ericifolia Swamp Paperbark Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides Weeping Grass P Microtis unifolia Common Onion-orchid Oxalis perennans Grassland Wood-sorrel Persicaria decipiens Slender Knotweed Poa labillardierei Common Tussock-grass Rumex brownii Slender Dock Rytidosperma pallidum Silvertop Wallaby-grass Rytidosperma spp. Wallaby Grass Schoenus apogon Common Bog-sedge P Senecio quadridentatus Cotton Fireweed Solanum aviculare Kangaroo Apple Themeda triandra Kangaroo Grass Typha domingensis Narrow-leaf Cumbungi Introduced species Acetosella vulgaris Sheep Sorrel Agrostis capillaris Brown-top Bent Biosis 2015 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 13

14 Anthoxanthum odoratum Sweet Vernal-grass Arctotheca calendula Cape Weed Aster subulatus Aster-weed Avena fatua Wild Oat Bellis perennis English Daisy Brassica rapa White Turnip Briza minor Lesser Quaking-grass Bromus catharticus Prairie Grass Bromus diandrus Great Brome Bromus hordeaceus subsp. hordeaceus Soft Brome Cenchrus clandestinus Kikuyu Cerastium glomeratum s.l. Common Mouse-ear Chickweed RC Cirsium vulgare Spear Thistle Conyza bonariensis Flaxleaf Fleabane Cortaderia selloana Pampas Grass RC Crataegus monogyna Hawthorn Cyperus eragrostis ain Flat-sedge Dactylis glomerata Cocksfoot Daucus carota Carrot RC Echium plantagineum Paterson's Curse Ehrharta erecta var. erecta Panic Veldt-grass Ehrharta longiflora Annual Veldt-grass Erica lusitanica Spanish Heath Festuca arundinacea Tall Fescue Fumaria muralis subsp. muralis Wall Fumitory Galium aparine Cleavers Helminthotheca echioides Ox-tongue Holcus lanatus Yorkshire Fog Hypochaeris radicata Flatweed Isolepis levynsiana Tiny Flat-sedge Lactuca serriola Prickly Lettuce Lolium perenne Perennial Rye-grass Lolium rigidum Wimmera Rye-grass Lotus spp. Trefoil Lysimachia arvensis Pimpernel Malva parviflora Small-flower Mallow Modiola caroliniana Red-flower Mallow Paspalum dilatatum Paspalum Pentameris airoides subsp. airoides False Hair-grass Phalaris aquatica Toowoomba Canary-grass Plantago coronopus Buck's-horn Plantain Plantago lanceolata Ribwort Poa annua Annual Meadow-grass Polygonum aviculare s.l. Prostrate Knotweed Polypogon monspeliensis Annual Beard-grass Biosis 2015 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 14

15 Prunus cerasifera Ranunculus spp. Cherry Plum Buttercup Romulea rosea Onion Grass Rubus anglocandicans Common Blackberry Rumex conglomeratus Clustered Dock Rumex crispus Curled Dock Sisyrinchium iridifolium Striped Rush-leaf Solanum nigrum Black Nightshade Sonchus asper Rough Sow-thistle Sonchus oleraceus Common Sow-thistle Sporobolus africanus Rat-tail Grass Taraxacum officinale spp. agg. Garden Dandelion Tragopogon porrifolius subsp. porrifolius Salsify Trifolium campestre var. campestre Hop Clover Trifolium repens var. repens White Clover Trifolium subterraneum Subterranean Clover RC Ulex europaeus Gorse Vicia sativa Common Vetch Vicia spp. Vetch Vulpia bromoides Squirrel-tail Fescue Biosis 2015 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 15

16 Appendix 2: Photos of vegetation within the BHEP Plate 1: Scattered understorey trees outside of defined native vegetation patches. Some appear to be in good health and flowering (top) while others appear to be in decline (bottom). Biosis 2015 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 16

17 Plate 2: Habitat Zone 1: Mown native grass at edge of drains containing Weeping Grass Microlena stipoides and Wallaby Grass Rytidosperma spp. (top) and dam banks colonized by native herbs and grasses (bottom) Biosis 2015 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 17

18 Plate 3: Habitat Zone 2: drain dominated by native rushes and sedges but with weeds also present Biosis 2015 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 18

19 Plate 4: Habitat Zone 3: native grasses along boundary of southern drain with native understorey trees Biosis 2015 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 19

20 Plate 5: Habitat Zone 4: native understorey trees with weedy ground-layer, including Blackberry infestation (bottom) Biosis 2015 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 20

21 Plate 6: Most of the study area is made up of paddocks with introduced pasture species and weeds (top) or lawn and weedy areas within the campus (bottom). Biosis 2015 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 21

22 Appendix 3: Berwick Health and Education Precinct - Vegetation Assessment - Southern ain Biosis 2015 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 22

23 05 May 2015 Anna Batters Senior Precinct Structure Planner Metropolitan Planning Authority Level 25, 35 Collins Street, Melbourne MELBOURNE VIC Re: Berwick Health and Education Precinct- Vegetation assessment - Southern ain Our Ref job # Dear Anna, Biosis Pty Ltd. was commissioned by the Metropolitan Planning Authority to undertake a survey of the health and condition of the vegetation in the drainage line in the southern section of the Berwick Health and Education Precinct, 100 Clyde Road, Berwick (Figure 1). Methods The survey was undertaken on 24 April 2015 and a list of plant species observed was collected (#T25562). This list will be submitted to the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) for incorporation into the Victorian Biodiversity Atlas. Planted species have not been recorded unless they are naturalised. Native vegetation is defined in the Victoria Planning Provisions as 'plants that are indigenous to Victoria, including trees, shrubs, herbs and grasses' (Clause 72). The Guidelines classify native vegetation into two categories (DEPI 2013): A remnant patch of native vegetation (measured in hectares) is either: An area of native vegetation, with or without trees, where at least 25 percent of the total perennial understorey cover is native plants. An area with three or more indigenous canopy trees where the tree canopy cover is at least 20 percent. Remnant patch vegetation is classified into ecological vegetation classes (EVCs). An EVC contains one or more floristic (plant) communities, and represents a grouping of broadly similar environments. Definitions of EVCs and benchmarks (condition against which vegetation quality at the site can be compared) are determined by DELWP. A scattered tree is defined as (extent measured by number of trees): An indigenous canopy tree that does not form part of a remnant patch of native vegetation. Biosis Pty Ltd Melbourne Resource Group 38 Bertie Street Phone: ACN Port Melbourne VIC 3207 Fax: ABN melbourne@biosis.com.au biosis.com.au

24 Julius Ct Daniher Cl Hillview Pl Vista Ct Lodge Mason Way Cr Greystoke Ct Quarry Hills Thirlmere Windemere St Berwick Penrith Ct Ambleside Cr Brae Princes Princes Ct Hwy Hwy Millwood Av Derwent Ct Queens Ct Ayr Ct Margaret St Jane St York Rd Mansfield St Rheanva St Evan St Patricia Ct Clyde Rd Outlook Anne St Clyde Rd John Barr Ct Shute Av Kramer Mcnabb Adams Lane Gibb St St Russel Av CASEY CITY Richardson Gr Gloucester Av Harkaway Lyall Rd Rd Paternoster Lane Wheeler St Berwick Wilson St Roundhay Melbourne Langmore Lane Cameroun Ct Rutland Rd Ct Brisbane St High St Marygate Pl High St Lilydale Ringwood Miller St Bain St Linton Ct Dandenong Cord Cl Peel St Edwardes St Scanlan St Church St Peel St Fiddlers Grn Jomary Ct Renwarl Pakenham Palmerston St Enterprise Av Intrepid St Reserve St Newman Ct Cl Venture Clyde Rd Fiddlers Grn Fyffe St Enmore Cl Grantham Cr Gair Cl Biralee Andval Ct Ct Chin Ct Sing Melzak Way Cr Cindy Ct Golf Links Rd Chong Ct MilparinkaWay Melville Normanton Pl Park John Sherman Ct Fisher Edrington Wilona Way Siandra Pl Jancol Ct Astrid Ct Canning Park Fairholme Bvd Ryan Ct Salisbury Ct Golf Links Rd Prime Ct Hancock Yemaya Pl Gwendoline Legend Study area Summer Ct Stefan Audrey Lane County Lily Vale Cl Murndal Malanda Ct Ct Escott Gr Clyde Rd NorhamCt Cheviot Av Kangan Princes Fwy Tottington Local government boundary Rise Warrock Ct Hollydale Cl Greenlaw Acknowledgement: VicMap Data Copyright The State of Victoria, Department of Environment and Primary Industries 2014 Biosis Pty Ltd Ballarat, Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, Sydney, Wangaratta & Wollongong Kelso Pl Figure 1: Location of the Study Area - Berwick, Victoria Matter: 19994, Date: 29 April 2015, Checked by: SGM, awn by: LDM, Last edited by: lmilne Location:P:\19900s\19994\Mapping\ Cr Broxburn Ct Lauder Pl ± Metres Scale A4, GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55

25 A canopy tree is a mature tree that is greater than three metres in height and is normally found in the upper layer of a vegetation type. Ecological vegetation class descriptions provide a list of the typical canopy species. A condition score and extent is applied to each scattered tree based on information provided by DELWP's NVIM. Species nomenclature for flora follows the Flora Information System (FIS 2014 edition). Results: Vegetation along the southern drain is not mapped (2005 EVC layer) as native vegetation according to DELWP mapping (see Biodiversity Interactive Map 3.2), with the original vegetation (pre 1750) identified as a mosaic of Plains Grassland (EVC 132) and Plains Grassy Woodland (EVC 55). Small remnants of this mosaic are identified by DELWP along the Princes Freeway in close proximity to the drain. The pre-1750 vegetation of this site is described as an open eucalypt woodland with a canopy of River Redgum Eucalyptus camaldulensis and Gippsland Red-gum Eucalyptus tereticornis. The understorey typically consists of shrubs including Black wattle Acacia mearnsii, Blackwood Acacia melanoxylon and Black Sheoak Allocasuarina littoralis that overtop a species-rich grassy and herbaceous ground layer. The vegetation along the drain is highly modified and degraded due to the extensive land clearing that has occurred within Berwick and surrounds. The drain itself is not a natural drainage line but an engineered feature that drains directly into the Berwick town drain to the west of the study area. Overall, the condition of the vegetation along the drain is poor with a high cover of a number of noxious weeds (Appendix 1). Infestations of Blackberry Rubus fruticosus spp. agg, Wandering Jew Tradescantia fluminensis and Flax-leaf Broom Genista linifolia are extensive (Plates 1, 2 & 3). These infestations smother other vegetation and prevent many other species from recolonising the site. Notwithstanding the above, the site inspection confirms the presence of small remnant patches of native vegetation along the drain (Figure 2). This includes areas dominated by shrubs and understorey trees such as Blackwood Acacia melanoxylon and Black Wattle Acacia mearnsii, narrow bands of aquatic species such as Narrow-leaf Cumbungi Typha domingensis and Slender Knotweed Persicaria decipiens and small patches of indigenous grasses including Veined Spear-grass Austrostipa rudis, Kangaroo Grass Themeda triandra, Weeping Grass Microlaena stipoides, Mat Grass Hemarthria uncinata and wallaby-grass species Rytidosperma spp as well as other herbs. The vegetation along the slopes of the drain is devoid of any native eucalypts that would normally characterise areas of Plains Grassy Woodland. Rather, the remnant patches of native vegetation are formed by the presence of understorey trees including Blackwood and Black wattle (Plate 4). Scattered occurrences of other shrubs included Hedge wattle Acacia paradoxa, Prickly Tea-tree Leptospermum continentale and ooping Cassinia Cassinia arcuata. Indigenous groundcover species occur as scattered individuals or small species poor patches. The eastern end of the study area lacks a native ground layer and is dominated by weedy pasture grasses such as Couch Cynodon dactylon var. dactylon and Kikuyu Cenchrus clandestinus (Plate 5). However, a small remnant native grassland is present along the northern bank at the western end of the study an area. This grassland is dominated by Kangaroo Grass and Veined Spear-grass Austrostipa rudis subsp. rudis (Plate 6). Isolated occurrences of herbaceous species that characterise Plains Grassland are also recorded. These include Sheep's Burr Acaena echinata, Pale Flax-lily Dianella longifolia, Kidney Weed Dichondra repens and fireweeds Senecio spp. Biosis 2015 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 3

26 1 2 3 Legend Scattered tree Study area Native vegetation HZ ha HZ ha Figure 2.1: Ecological features of the study area Princes Fwy Metres Scale: A4 Coordinate System: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55 ± Biosis Pty Ltd Ballarat, Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, Newcastle, Sydney, Wangaratta & Wollongong Matter: 19994, Date: 29 April 2015, Checked by: SGM, awn by: LDM, Last edited by: lmilne Location:P:\19900s\19994\Mapping\ 19994_F2_EcoFeatures_A4

27 1 2 3 Legend Scattered tree Study area Native vegetation HZ ha HZ ha HZ ha HZ ha HZ ha HZ ha Figure 2.2: Ecological features of the study area Metres Scale: A4 Coordinate System: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55 ± Biosis Pty Ltd Ballarat, Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, Newcastle, Sydney, Wangaratta & Wollongong Matter: 19994, Date: 29 April 2015, Checked by: SGM, awn by: LDM, Last edited by: lmilne Location:P:\19900s\19994\Mapping\ 19994_F2_EcoFeatures_A4

28 1 2 3 HZ ha HZ ha HZ ha HZ ha Legend Scattered tree Study area Native vegetation HZ ha HZ ha HZ ha HZ ha Clyde Rd Figure 2.3: Ecological features of the study area HZ ha Metres Scale: A4 Coordinate System: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 55 ± Biosis Pty Ltd Ballarat, Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, Newcastle, Sydney, Wangaratta & Wollongong Matter: 19994, Date: 29 April 2015, Checked by: SGM, awn by: LDM, Last edited by: lmilne Location:P:\19900s\19994\Mapping\ 19994_F2_EcoFeatures_A4

29 The drainage channel and association wetted perimeter also supported patches of native species (Plate 7). Patches of Slender Knotweed Persicaria decipiens, Narrow-leaf Cumbungi Typha domingensis and Common Spike-sedge Eleocharis acuta were located along the drain and extended onto the bank. Isolated herbs in these wetter areas include Shrubby Fireweed Senecio minimus and Crane's Bill Geranium sp. 14 (Plate 8). These areas were incorporated into patches of vegetation identified as remnants of Plains Grassy Woodland as the cover of these wetland plants was typically overshadowed by wattles. Condition and health of native vegetation The extent of native vegetation patches was mapped within the study area (Figure 2) and the condition was assessed in relation to standard methods provided by DSE (2004). The condition of native vegetation was assessed using the DSE Vegetation Quality Assessment Sheet (DSE 2004) and pre-determined EVC benchmarks: DELWP's Native Vegetation Information Management system was also used to determine vegetation extent and condition. All native vegetation patches were assessed as remnants of Plains Grassy Woodland. Habitat hectares Patches are termed habitat zones. Due to the relatively degraded nature of the native vegetation present all patches of native vegetation were identified as a single habitat zone. The condition score of the habitat zone is multiplied by the extent of the zone to give a value in Habitat hectares. Scores allocated to the habitat zone identified within the study area are outlined in Table 1. Table 1: Habitat hectares of native vegetation within the study area Site ID 1 Habitat Zone ID EVC #: Name A 55 Plains Grassy Woodland Max Score Score Site Condition Landscape Value Large Old Trees 10 0 Canopy Cover 5 0 Lack of Weeds 15 4 Understorey Recruitment 10 6 Organic Matter 5 2 Logs 5 0 Total Site Score 22 Patch Size 10 1 Neighbourhood 10 0 Distance to Core 5 1 Total Landscape Score 2 HABITAT SCORE Habitat points = #/ Habitat Zone area (ha) Habitat hectares (Hha) 0.13 Biosis 2015 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 7

30 Vegetation Health Native vegetation within the study area did not appear to be impacted by any obvious diseases or was otherwise impacted by any obvious insect attack which reduced or would otherwise lead to a conclusion that the vegetation present was in poor health. The two main wattle species present, Blackwood and Black Wattle, were present as a range of age cohorts and appeared to be present as a naturally sustaining population (Plates 1, 4, 5 & 6). Implications of the Assessment Any clearing of native vegetation within the study area may require a permit under the Planning and Environment Act Applications for the clearing of native vegetation are regulated under Victoria's Biodiversity Assessment Guidelines (DEPI 2013) (the Guidelines). DELWP classify most of the study area as Location A although the western end of the drain is identified as Location C. If the study area is proposed to be impacted by development which would result in the clearing of native vegetation then it is likely that proposal would be assessed under the high risk pathway. This assessment includes relevant information for such an application. Conclusion The study area supports patches of native vegetation as defined under Victoria's Biodiversity Assessment Guidelines. Many of the species which formed these remnants appeared to be healthy and were actively recruiting. The patches of native vegetation identified occupy a total of ha. This native vegetation is considered to be degraded in condition and was assessed to have a relatively low habitat score (24/100). The vegetation therefore represents a total of 0.13 habitat hectares. Clearing of this vegetation would require a permit under the Planning and Environment Act and would likely be required to satisfy the information requirements defined under the high risk-based pathway defined by the Guidelines. This report provided the relevant data for any such application. Please contact me on if you would like to discuss further. Yours sincerely Steve Mueck Senior Consultant Botanist References DEPI Permitted clearing of native vegetation - Biodiversity assessment guidelines. Victorian Government Department of Environment and Primary Industries, Melbourne (September 2013). Biosis 2015 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 8

31 Appendix 1: Flora Table A1.1. Flora species (32 native, 54 weeds) recorded from the study area. Status Scientific name Common name Indigenous Species Acacia mearnsii Acacia melanoxylon Acacia paradoxa Acaena echinata Acaena novae-zelandiae Amyema pendula Austrostipa rudis subsp. rudis Carex inversa Cassinia arcuata Dianella longifolia Dichondra repens Einadia nutans Eleocharis acuta Epilobium hirtigerum Geranium spp. (?sp. 14, L. Tozer pers. comm.) Hemarthria uncinata var. uncinata Juncus spp. Leptospermum continentale Lomandra filiformis subsp. filiformis Lomandra longifolia Melaleuca ericifolia Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides Oxalis perennans Persicaria decipiens Poa labillardierei Rytidosperma caespitosum Black Wattle Blackwood Hedge Wattle Sheep's Burr Bidgee-widgee ooping Mistletoe Veined Spear-grass Knob Sedge ooping Cassinia Pale Flax-lily Kidney-weed Nodding Saltbush Common Spike-sedge Hairy Willow-herb Valley Crane's Bill Mat Grass Rush Prickly Tea-tree Wattle Mat-rush Spiny-headed Mat-rush Swamp Paperbark Weeping Grass Grassland Wood-sorrel Slender Knotweed Common Tussock-grass Common Wallaby-grass Biosis 2015 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 9

32 Status Scientific name Common name Rytidosperma semiannulare Senecio minimus Senecio quadridentatus Themeda triandra Tricoryne elatior Typha domingensis Wetland Wallaby-grass Shrubby Fireweed Cotton Fireweed Kangaroo Grass Yellow Rush-lily Narrow-leaf Cumbungi Exotic Species Acacia iteaphylla Agrostis capillaris Flinders Range Wattle Brown-top Bent RR Allium triquetrum Angled Onion Anthoxanthum odoratum Sweet Vernal-grass RR Asparagus asparagoides Bridal Creeper Aster subulatus Brassica rapa Bromus catharticus Bromus hordeaceus subsp. hordeaceus Callitriche stagnalis Cenchrus clandestinus Centaurium tenuiflorum Aster-weed White Turnip Prairie Grass Soft Brome Common Water-starwort Kikuyu Slender Centaury RC Cirsium vulgare Spear Thistle Conyza bonariensis Cortaderia selloana Flaxleaf Fleabane Pampas Grass RC Crataegus monogyna Hawthorn Cynodon dactylon var. dactylon Cyperus eragrostis Dactylis glomerata Daucus carota Ehrharta erecta var. erecta Erica lusitanica Erigeron karvinskianus Euryops abrotanifolius Couch ain Flat-sedge Cocksfoot Carrot Panic Veldt-grass Spanish Heath Seaside Daisy Winter Euryops Biosis 2015 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 10

33 Status Scientific name Common name Fraxinus angustifolia Fumaria spp. Galium aparine Gamochaeta purpurea s.s. Desert Ash Fumitory Cleavers Spiked Cudweed RC Genista linifolia Flax-leaf Broom Helminthotheca echioides Holcus lanatus Hypochaeris radicata Lonicera japonica Malus spp. Nasturtium officinale Paspalum dilatatum Phalaris aquatica Pinus radiata Plantago lanceolata Prunella vulgaris Prunus cerasifera Romulea rosea Ox-tongue Yorkshire Fog Flatweed Japanese Honeysuckle Apple Watercress Paspalum Toowoomba Canary-grass Radiata Pine Ribwort Self-heal Cherry Plum Onion Grass RC Rubus fruticosus spp. agg. Blackberry Rumex conglomeratus Rumex crispus Clustered Dock Curled Dock RR Salix spp. Willow Solanum nigrum s.s. Sonchus asper s.s. Sporobolus africanus Stenotaphrum secundatum Tradescantia fluminensis Black Nightshade Rough Sow-thistle Rat-tail Grass Buffalo Grass Wandering Jew RC Ulex europaeus Gorse Vicia sativa subsp. sativa Viola odorata Common Vetch Common Violet Biosis 2015 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 11

34 Appendix 2: Photos of vegetation along the Clyde Road drain Plate 1: A Blackberry infestation along the banks of the drain Plate 2: A Blackberry infestation along the drain with an introduced wattle flowering in the foreground. Biosis 2015 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 12

35 Plate 3: An area of Blackberry infestation with Flax-leaf Broom and Desert Ash Plate 4: Blackwoods along the banks of the drain determine the extent of Plains Grassy Woodland. Biosis 2015 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 13

36 Plate 5: Mown pasture grasses flanking the boundary of the Clyde road drain. Plate 6: Native grassland at the western end of the study area containing Kangaroo Grass and Veined Spear-grass. Biosis 2015 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 14

37 Plate 7: A patch of native vegetation within the drain containing Narrow-leaf Cumbungi and Slender Knotweed. Plate 8: The banks of the drain support scattered native herbs such as Geranium sp. 14. Biosis 2015 Leaders in Ecology and Heritage Consulting 15