Construction Environmental Management Plan - Essential Energy

Lismore to Mullumbimby 

Electricity Network Upgrade 

Construction Environmental 

Management Plan 

Final Report (Rev. D) 

for Country Energy 

April 2010 

0051706 

www.erm.com 

Delivering sustainable solutions in a more competitive world

FINAL 

Country Energy 

Lismore to Mullumbimby 

Electricity Network 

Upgrade 

Construction Environmental 

Management Plan 

April 2010 

Reference: Document No. 0051706 

Environmental Resources Management 

Australia 

Suite 3/146 Gordon Street 

PO Box 5711 

Port Macquarie, NSW 2444 

Telephone +61 2 6584 7155 

Facsimile +61 2 6584 7160 

www.erm.com

Construction Environmental Management Plan 

Uncontrolled when Printed: Revision D 

Last printed 3 June 2010 

Revision History and Approval: 

Rev Date Description By Review Approved 

1.0 Final CEMP 

A 

B 

19 September 

2009 

12 January 

2010 

Final Draft CEMP 

Final CEMP 

C 8 March 2010 Final CEMP 

D 24 April 2010 Final CEMP 

Director- 

General, DoP 



ERM Australia 


ERM Australia 


ERM Australia 


ERM Australia 

Brett Hayward 

Brett Hayward 

Murray Curtis 

Brett Hayward 

Murray Curtis 

Brett Hayward 

Murray Curtis 

Brett Hayward 

Murray Curtis 

This Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) is considered a dynamic document and will be reviewed as part of 

the annual review process (see Section 8). The CEMP and any subsequent revisions must be approved by the Country Energy 

Project Manager. Initial approval of the CEMP must also be obtained from the Director-General (or delegate), NSW Department 

of Planning in accordance with the Minister’s Conditions of Approval. Subsequent CEMP revisions do not require Director- 

General (or delegate) approval; however, a copy of the revised CEMP will be submitted for information.




CONTENTS 

GLOSSARY 

1 INTRODUCTION 

1.1 OVERVIEW 1 

1.2 PURPOSE 1 

1.3 SCOPE OF THE CEMP 1 

1.4 OBJECTIVES OF THE CEMP 2 

1.5 CONSULTATION AND APPROVAL PROCESS FOR THE CEMP 2 

1.6 EMP STRUCTURE AND MANAGEMENT PLANS 3 

1.7 COUNTRY ENERGY EMS 6 

1.8 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 6 

1.9 PROJECT STAGING 9 

2 CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES AND LOGISTICS 

2.1 UPGRADE OF TRANSMISSION LINE INFRASTRUCTURE 11 

2.1.1 SITE ESTABLISHMENT AND ACCESS 11 

2.1.2 POLE REMOVAL 11 

2.1.3 SURVEYING AND SERVICE LOCATING 12 

2.1.4 FOUNDATION EXCAVATION AND POLE ERECTION 12 

2.1.5 CONDUCTOR AND EARTH WIRE INSTALLATION 12 

2.2 INSTALLATION OF UNDERGROUND TRANSMISSION LINES 13 

2.3 UPGRADE OF EXISTING SUBSTATIONS 13 

2.4 CONSTRUCTION OF NEW SUBSTATIONS 13 

2.5 ANCILLARY FACILITIES 15 

2.6 HOURS OF WORK 15 

2.7 PROPERTY ACCESS 16 

2.8 CONSTRUCTION WORKFORCE 16 

3 ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECTS, IMPACTS AND RISK ASSESSMENT 

3.1 ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECTS 17 

3.1.1 MULLUMBIMBY TO EWINGSDALE 17 

3.1.2 EWINGSDALE TO SUFFOLK PARK 17 

3.1.3 SUFFOLK PARK TO LENNOX HEAD 18 

3.1.4 LENNOX HEAD TO BALLINA 18 

3.1.5 BALLINA TO ALSTONVILLE 19 

3.1.6 ALSTONVILLE TO LISMORE 19 

3.2 RISK MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK 20 

3.3 RISK IDENTIFICATION AND ASSESSMENT 22 

3.4 SENSITIVE AREAS AND RECEPTORS 22 

3.5 ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL MEASURES AND PROCEDURES 23




CONTENTS 

4 LEGISLATIVE AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS 

4.1 OVERARCHING PROJECT LEGISLATIVE POSITION 

AND CONDITIONS 24 

4.1.1 MINISTER’S CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL 24 

4.1.2 PROJECT ENVIRONMENTAL OBLIGATIONS 25 

4.2 LEGISLATION AND POLICIES 25 

4.2.1 COMMONWEALTH LEGISLATION 26 

4.2.2 STATE LEGISLATION 26 

4.2.3 LOCAL GOVERNMENT 27 

4.2.4 POLICIES, PROCEDURES AND OTHER GUIDANCE 27 

4.3 APPROVALS, LICENCES AND PERMITS 29 

5 ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES, TARGETS AND PERFORMANCE 

INDICATORS 

6 CEMP IMPLEMENTATION 

6.1 STRUCTURE, ROLES, RESPONSIBILITIES AND AUTHORITY 33 

6.1.1 CONSULTANTS 37 

6.2 SUBCONTRACTOR MANAGEMENT 37 

6.3 TRAINING, AWARENESS AND COMPETENCE 39 

6.3.1 TRAINING 39 

6.3.2 PROJECT INDUCTION 39 

6.3.3 DAILY PRE-START TALKS 40 

6.3.4 “TOOLBOX” TRAINING 40 

6.3.5 PROJECT ENVIRONMENTAL ALERTS 41 

6.4 COMMUNICATION AND CONSULTATION 41 

6.4.1 INTERNAL COMMUNICATION 41 

6.4.2 EXTERNAL COMMUNICATION 43 

6.4.3 COMPLAINT MANAGEMENT AND RESPONSE 44 

6.5 INCIDENT AND EMERGENCY PLANNING, PREPAREDNESS 

AND RESPONSE 44 

7 EVALUATION OF COMPLIANCE 

7.1 INSPECTIONS, MONITORING AND AUDITING 46 

7.1.1 SITE INSPECTIONS 46 

7.1.2 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING 46 

7.1.3 AUDIT SCHEDULE 47 

7.1.4 INTERNAL AUDITING 48 

7.1.5 EXTERNAL AUDITING 48 

7.2 OPPORTUNITIES FOR IMPROVEMENT, NON-CONFORMANCE, 

CORRECTIVE AND PREVENTATIVE ACTION 49 

7.3 INTERNAL REPORTING 49




CONTENTS 

7.4 EXTERNAL REPORTING 50 

7.5 NOTIFICATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL RELATED INCIDENT 50 

7.6 DOCUMENT CONTROL AND RECORDS 51 

7.6.1 GENERAL 51 

7.6.2 CONTROLLED COPY 51 

7.6.3 UNCONTROLLED COPIES 51 

7.6.4 AMENDMENTS 51 

7.6.5 RECORDS 52 

8 REVIEW AND IMPROVEMENT OF CEMP 

9 REFERENCES 

APPENDICES: 

APPENDIX A COUNTRY ENERGY ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY 

APPENDIX B FIGURES - REGIONAL PROJECT AREA AND SENSITIVE AREA PLANS 

APPENDIX C SCHEMATIC SHOWING PROJECT STAGING 

APPENDIX D RISK ASSESSMENT 

APPENDIX E MINISTER'S CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL 

APPENDIX F STATEMENT OF COMMITTMENTS 

APPENDIX G AUDIT SCHEDULE 

APPENDIX H ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SUB-PLANS




LIST OF TABLES 

TABLE 1.1 

TABLE 1.2 

CEMP AND MANAGEMENT PLAN CONSULTATION 

REQUIREMENTS 2 

MCOA NOT ADDRESSED IN THE THREE CHAIN ROAD 

SUB-PLAN 3 

TABLE 1.3 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SUB-PLAN REQUIREMENTS 4 

TABLE 3.1 QUALITATIVE MEASURES OF CONSEQUENCE OR IMPACT 22 

TABLE 3.2 QUALITATIVE MEASURES OF LIKELIHOOD 22 

TABLE 3.3 QUALITATIVE RISK ANALYSIS MATRIX – LEVEL OF RISK 23 

TABLE 4.1 MCOA REQUIREMENTS 26 

TABLE 4.2 ENVIRONMENTAL STANDARDS, POLICIES AND GUIDELINES 29 

TABLE 5.1 OBJECTIVES, TARGETS AND KPI’S 32 

TABLE 6.1 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 36 

TABLE 6.2 COMMUNICATION PROTOCOLS 43 

LIST OF FIGURES 

FIGURE 1.1 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT DOCUMENT STRUCTURE 5 

FIGURE 1.2 PROJECT AREA 8 

FIGURE 6.1 CEMP ORGANISATIONAL CHART 35




GLOSSARY 

Audit 

Systematic, independent and documented process for 

obtaining evidence and objectively evaluating it to 

determine the extent to which environmental 

management system meets the criteria set 

Auditor 

Person with appropriate training and competence to 

perform an audit 

CEMP 


CoA 

Conditions of Approval 

Continual improvement 

Recurring process of enhancing the CEMP in order to 

achieve improvements in overall environmental 

performance 

Contractor 

Prime Contractor engaged by Country Energy to 

undertake construction activities associated with the 

project 

Corrective action 

Action to eliminate the cause of non conformance 

Environment 

Surroundings in which Contractor operates including: 

air; water, land, natural resources, flora, fauna, 

humans, heritage and their interrelation 

Environmental aspect 

Element of organisational activities or products that 

can interact with the environment 

Environmental Control Plan (ECP) 

A work instruction, which details the environmental 

protection or control methodology for a particular 

activity 

Environmental impact 

Any changes to the environment, whether adverse or 

beneficial, wholly or partially resulting from an 

organisational aspect 

Environmental management 

The management system used to develop and 

implement the environment system policy and 

manage environmental aspects 

Environmental objective 

Overall environmental goal, consistent with the 

environment policy that an organisation sets itself to 

achieve 

ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA DOCUMENT NO. 0051706/FINAL/3 JUNE 2010 

i




Environmental performance 

Measurable results of an organisation’s management 

of environmental aspects 

Environmental policy 

Overall statement of intent and direction relating to 

environmental performance as expressed by top 

management 

Environmental target 

Detailed performance requirement that arises from the 

environmental objectives and are set in order to 

achieve those objectives 

Non conformance 

Non fulfilment of a requirement 

Performance indicators 

Indicators that have been developed as leading or 

lagging to monitor and assess performance 

Preventive action 

The action required to eliminate the cause of a 

possible non conformance 

Prevention of pollution 

The method employed to avoid, reduce or control the 

creation, emission or discharge of any type of 

pollutant or waste, in order to reduce adverse 

environmental impacts 

Procedure 

Specified way to carry out an activity or a process 

Record document 

Document stating results achieved or providing 

evidence of activities performed 

Subcontractor 

Any company, body or person who is contracted to 

the Contractor for the purpose of supplying services 

or goods. 


ii




1 INTRODUCTION 

1.1 OVERVIEW 

This Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) applies to 

construction activities proposed as part of the augmentation of the Country 

Energy (CE) electricity supply network in the Far North Coast of New South 

Wales (herein referred to as ‘the Project’) and has been prepared giving 

consideration to the Guideline for the Preparation of Environmental Management 

Plans (Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Natural Resources, 2004), 

Country Energy Environmental Management System (EMS) and the 

Minister’s Conditions of Approval (MCoA). 

1.2 PURPOSE 

The purpose of this CEMP is to provide a systematic management framework 

for the protection of the environment during the execution of the Project in 

order to meet the Country Energy Environmental Policy (Appendix A). The 

CEMP has been specifically prepared to assess all of the environmental 

construction risks and issues associated with the Project and provide 

appropriate systems and processes to control and manage those risks. 

1.3 SCOPE OF THE CEMP 

This CEMP has been prepared to meet the NSW MCoA and is applicable to 

the proposed construction activities associated with the augmentation of the 

Country Energy (CE) electricity supply network in the Far North Coast of 

New South Wales. 

It applies to those construction activities proposed in the areas of Lismore, 

Ballina, Ewingsdale and Mullumbimby, defined as the Project Area in the 

Environmental Assessment Report (ERM Australia Pty Ltd, 2009a) and in 

Section 1.5 below. 

Construction activities applicable to this CEMP include, but are not limited to 

those activities required for site access, grubbing and clearing, excavating, 

trenching, backfilling, constructing foundations, construction of sealed 

surfaces (concrete and asphalt), construction of buildings, installation of 

electrical infrastructure, erection of boundary fencing and site commissioning. 

The Commonwealth and New South Wales legislative jurisdictions apply to 

this CEMP and all construction activities associated with the Project. 

ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AUSTRALIA DOCUMENT NO. 0051706/FINAL /3 JUNE 2010 

1




1.4 OBJECTIVES OF THE CEMP 

The objectives of this CEMP are: 

• To govern environmental management of all construction activities 

associated with the Project including those carried out by Country Energy, 

any Contractor(s), Country Energy personnel seconded to the Contractor, 

sub-contractors and visitors. 

• To describe how Country Energy (or a Contractor) will conform to the 

environmental management requirements of the MCoA, Commonwealth 

and State environmental and heritage legislation and the requirements of 

the Country Energy EMS. 

• To provide a systematic framework for the identification, assessment and 

management of environment and heritage risks associated with the 

construction of the Project. 

1.5 CONSULTATION AND APPROVAL PROCESS FOR THE CEMP 

The MCoA prescribe which regulatory authorities are to be consulted in the 

preparation of each component of the CEMP. These requirements are 

summarised in Table 1.1. 

Table 1.1 

CEMP and Management Plan Consultation Requirements 

Regulatory Authority 

Department of Environment, Climate 

Change and Water (DECCW) 

NSW Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA) 

Local Councils 

Aboriginal Community Representatives 

Emergency Services 

Plan/Procedure 

Construction Flora and Fauna Management Plan 

Construction Traffic Management Plan 


Construction Cultural Heritage Management Plan 


A copy of the CEMP and a site specific Three Chain Road Management Plan 

(Sub-plan) were provided to relevant agencies for review and comment in 

accordance with Table 1.1. Remaining issue specific Sub-plans (refer Table 3.1 

and Annex H) were also provided to the relevant agencies (where required) for 

review and comment. 

Taking into account comments made during the review period, the CEMP and 

Sub-plans were revised, prior to re-submitting to DoP for approval. 

Following approval, a controlled copy of this CEMP and all Sub-plans will be 

provided in accordance with the distribution list at the front of this CEMP. 


2




1.6 EMP STRUCTURE AND MANAGEMENT PLANS 

The environmental management strategy for construction consists of this 

framework CEMP document plus a series of issue-specific Management Plans 

(Sub-plans). This framework CEMP contains the environmental system 

elements and general project information. The Sub-plans have been further 

developed to document the aspects, impacts, safeguards and monitoring 

requirements for each key environmental factor, and also nominates who is 

responsible for implementing those controls and the frequency/timing of 

implementation. The Sub-plans include checklists of obligations and 

safeguards in relation to each environment factor. 

The Sub-plans follow prescriptive content requirements of the MCoA and the 

Statement of Commitments (Lismore to Mullumbimby Electricity Network 

Upgrade). 

In view of the need to progress works at the Three Chain Road, Lismore, a 

specific Sub-plan (refer Annex H - EMSP1) was prepared and applies to this 

initial construction phase of the Project. The Three Chain Road Sub-plan deals 

directly with the identified constraints and impacts for this initial component 

of the Project only. As such a number of the MCoA are not considered 

applicable and have not been addressed in the Three Chain Road Sub-plan. 

Table 1.2 provides a list of these MCoA and explanation as to why they are not 

applicable. 

Table 1.2 

MCoA not addressed in the Three Chain Road Sub-plan 

MCoA – Project Plan Approval 

Justification 

2.1.3 Biodiversity Off-sets No native vegetation clearing is proposed for the Three 

Chain Road construction works. 

3.4 a) to f) - Management Plans The detailed management plans (Sub-plans) are to be 

developed as they applicable to the broader Project. Site 

specific impacts and how they will be mitigated have 

been addressed in the Three Chain Road Sub-plan. This 

has included detailed Construction Traffic Management 

Plan, an Aboriginal Burial management Plan and 

Induction Materials, and an EMF protocol. It is noted 

that as the Project works in Three Chain Road are not 

located within close proximity to sensitive receivers, 

there are no requirements for ameliorative measures as 

outlined within the EMF protocol. 

2.20 – Non-indigenous Heritage, 

Lismore Power Station 

The works to be undertaken at the Lismore South Zone 

Substation in order to accommodate the new 66kV 

power lines are minor and will have no direct impact on 

the heritage listed Lismore Power Station. The Project 

lay-down area is located within the existing Country 

Energy Field Service Centre and as such will not impact 

on the heritage listed Power Station. 


3




The remaining Sub-plans have been developed to apply to the broader Project 

(refer Annex H – EMSP2 to EMSP9). This framework CEMP was initially 

provided along with Three Chain Road Sub-plan for approval by the Director- 

General of the NSW Department of Panning for commencement of the initial 

Three Chain Road works. The remaining Sub-plans were also sent to the 

Director General for approval prior to the commencement of works on the 

wider Project. 

The environmental factors each of the Sub-plan address are detailed in 

Table 1.3. 

Table 1.3 

Environmental Management Sub-plan Requirements 

Number MCoA Environmental Sub-plan 

EMSP 1 x Three Chain Road 

EMSP 2 x Construction Pollution Prevention 

EMSP 3 Construction Noise and Vibration 

EMSP 4 Construction Aboriginal Cultural Heritage 

EMSP 5 Construction Flora and Fauna 

EMSP 6 Electric and Magnetic Field 

EMSP 7 Construction Traffic Management 

EMSP 8 Construction Soil and Water Management 

EMSP 9 Landscape/Revegetation Plan 

A number of Construction Method Statement (CMS) will also be developed by 

the contractor undertaking construction activities. CMSs are developed to 

ensure site and activity specific environmental issues are managed during 

construction. CMSs are developed for major construction methods i.e. site 

grubbing and clearing may incorporate references for specific tasks relating to 

environmental controls such as installation and/or maintenance of sediment 

and erosion controls. 

Figure 1.1 outlines how the CEMP and the supporting environmental 

management Sub-plan documentation are to interact and satisfy the MCoA for 

the project. 


4




Figure 1.1 

Environmental Management Document Structure 


5




1.7 COUNTRY ENERGY EMS 

Country Energy operates in accordance with its EMS and maintains 

compliance with the international EMS standard, AS/NZ ISO 14001:2004. 

The EMS is representative of the commitment and systems in place by 

Country Energy. 

The key elements of the EMS include: 

• A project corporate Environmental Policy (CECP1023 Environmental 

Policy); 

• Assessing environmental risk and identification of legal requirements; 

• Developing objectives and targets for improvement; 

• Training, operational control, communication, emergency response, 

corrective and preventative actions; and 

• Audits and review. 

Country Energy is committed to responsible environmental management of 

the Project and believes that all potential adverse environmental impacts can 

be effectively managed. 

1.8 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 

Country Energy (CE) has identified the need for augmentation of its electricity 

supply network in the Far North Coast of New South Wales which includes 

the areas of Lismore, Ballina, Ewingsdale and Mullumbimby. 

The project includes the upgrade (including any necessary realignments or 

deviations) and construction of transmission lines and substations. 

Specifically, the project will include the following elements: 

• Upgrade of Mullumbimby to Ballina 66kV power lines from the 

Mullumbimby substation to the Ballina substation, to 132 kV; 

• Upgrade of Ballina to Alstonville 66kV power line from the Ballina 

substation to join to the new 132kV Lismore/Alstonville transmission line, 

to 132kV; 


6




• Construction of new transmission lines from Brunswick Heads feeder loop 

-132kV transmission line from the Mullumbimby to Ewingsdale 

transmission line to the Brunswick Heads substation; 

• Construction of new transmission lines from Lismore to Alstonville - 

132kV transmission line from the Lismore 132kV bulk supply point (BSP) 

substation to join to the upgraded Alstonville to Ballina 132kV 

transmission line near Alstonville; 

• Construction of new 66kV power line from Lismore South 66/11kV 

substation to the Lismore 66kV switching station; 

• Construction of two underground 66kV power lines from Lismore bulk 

supply point substation to Lismore South substation; 

• Construction of new 132/11kV substation at Brunswick Heads (the 

Brunswick Heads substation); 

• Construction of new 132/11kV substation at Suffolk Park (the Suffolk Park 

substation); 

• Upgrade of Mullumbimby 132/66/11kV substation (Mullumbimby 

station) to 132/11kV); 

• Upgrade of Ewingsdale 66/11kV substation (Ewingsdale substation) to 

132/11kV; 

• Upgrade of Lennox Head 66/11kV substation (Lennox Head substation) to 

132/11kV; 

• Upgrade of Ballina 66/11kV substation (Ballina substation) to 

132/66/11kV; 

• Upgrade of Lismore 132/66/11kV bulk supply point (Lismore substation); 

and 

• Upgrade of Lismore South 66/11kV substation (Lismore South 

substation). 

Construction activities are proposed to commence in January 2010 over a 

number of construction stages, with completion of the project anticipated by 

December 2014. 

The Project Area spans three Local Government Areas (LGAs) including 

Ballina, Byron and Lismore and encompasses the townships of Mullumbimby, 

Brunswick Heads, Ewingsdale, Suffolk Park, Byron Bay, Lennox Head, 

Ballina, Alstonville and Lismore. The Project Area is illustrated in Figure 1.2. 


7

A 

!Q 

OCEAN SHORES 

BRUNSWICK HEADS 

B 

MULLUMBIMBY !Q Brunswick Heads ZS 

Mullumbimby ZS 

8505 

!Q 

C 

Ewingsdale ZS 

8508 

BYRON BAY 

Legend 

!Q Existing Substation 

!Q Proposed Substation 

Pacific Highway Upgrade 

Casino-Murwillumbah Railway 

Main Roads 

Highway 

Existing 132kV 

Existing 66kV 

SEPP14 Areas 

LGA boundaries 

Project Area 

Built-up Areas 

National Parks 

DUNOON RD 

BANGALOW 

Suffolk Park ZS 

!Q D 

SUFFOLK PARK 

NIMBIN RD 

BANGALOW RD 

PACIFIC HWY 

8508 

Figure 1.2 

Project Area 

Lismore BSP 

Lismore South ZS 

J 

!Q 

I 

0890 & 

0891 

!Q 

8501 

!Q 

LISMORE Lismore East ZS 

H1 

!Q !Q Lismore Uni ZS 

H2 

Lismore Switching Station 

BRUXNER HWY 

0897 

8502 

ELTHAM RD 

ALSTONVILLE 

G 

!Q Alstonville ZS 

8503 

8507 

8504 

E 

F 

!Q 

!Q 

Lennox Head ZS 

LENNOX HEAD 

Ballina ZS 

BALLINA 

Client: 

Project: 


Lismore to Mullumbimby Upgrade 

Drawing No: 0051706_01 Suffix No: A0 

Date: 

Drawn by: 

Source: 

Scale: 

29/07/08 

TH 

Department of Lands 

Refer Scale Bar 

Drawing size: A4 

Reviewed by: WW 

[ 

0 1 2 4 6 8 km 

N 

Environmental Resources Management Australia Pty Ltd 

Building C, 33 Saunders St, Pyrmont, NSW 2009 

Telephone +61 2 8584 8888




The majority of the proposed upgrade works will be located in areas where 

there is an existing cleared transmission line corridor or a disturbed substation 

site. In areas where new substations and transmission lines are proposed, 

detailed environmental assessments have been undertaken. 

The Project spans a significant footprint of the NSW Far North Coast region, 

through one corridor extending generally east-west from Ballina to Lismore 

(approximately 35km) and another corridor extending generally north-south 

from Mullumbimby and Brunswick Heads to Ballina (approximately 35km). 

Appendix B Figures includes a number of maps showing the Project Area by 

region. 

1.9 PROJECT STAGING 

It is anticipated that the Project will be completed by December 2014. The key 

stages of the project are: 

1. Upgrade, including any necessary realignments or deviations of 

transmission lines: 

a. Mullumbimby substation to Ballina substation by June 2012; and 

b. Ballina substation to Alstonville by July 2013. 

2. Construction of new transmission lines: 

a. Brunswick Heads feeder loop by December 2014; 

b. Lismore substation to Alstonville by July 2014; 

c. 66kV power line from Lismore South substation to the Lismore 

switching station by March 2010; and 

d. two underground 66kV power lines from Lismore bulk supply 

point substation to Lismore South substation by February 2010. 

3. Construction of new substations: 

a. Brunswick Heads substation by December 2014; and 

b. Suffolk Park substation by July 2010. 

4. Upgrade of substations: 

a. Mullumbimby substation by December 2011; 

b. Ewingsdale substation by December 2011; 


9




c. Lennox Head substation by December 2011; 

d. Ballina substation by December 2011; 

e. Lismore substation by July 2014; and 

f. Lismore South substation by February 2010. 

A series of schematics indicating the proposed staging of the project is 

provided as Appendix C. 


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2 CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES AND LOGISTICS 

The Project involves a number of discrete components that will involve 

specific construction activities, including the: 

• Upgrade of transmission line infrastructure; 

• Installation of underground transmission lines; 

• Upgrade of existing substations; and 

• Construction of new substations (and associated infrastructure). 

The construction activities and processes that will be associated with each of 

these components are described below. 

2.1 UPGRADE OF TRANSMISSION LINE INFRASTRUCTURE 

Generally, the upgrade of the power lines will require the same construction 

elements as construction of new lines, including: 

2.1.1 Site Establishment and Access 

Access tracks are generally located within the existing transmission line 

corridors, however new access tracks may be required for the proposed 

deviations to the existing alignment. In these cases, vegetation clearing within 

the new transmission line corridor and associated access tracks will be 

required. 

Vegetation clearing will be carried out using mechanical, hand clearing and 

chemical clearing methods prior to commencement of construction activities. 

Any vegetation removed will be chipped and mulched if suitable. 

Temporary site compounds will be located along the transmission line route 

within the existing corridors for storage of transmission poles and electrical 

infrastructure. These will be temporarily fenced and will be progressively 

moved on as the transmission line is constructed. 

2.1.2 Pole Removal 

Assessment of the capability of existing poles to support the additional weight 

and tension of the new lines will be undertaken on a pole by pole basis. 


11




Removal of poles will be undertaken to ensure that any potential 

contamination risk from Copper Chrome Arsenate (CCA) or Creosote is 

appropriately managed. 

For poles being removed, the following one of two methods will be used: 

• Excavation around the base of the pole (keeping the surface soil aside), 

cutting off the base of the pole, burying it with the former surface soil insitu 

into the same hole, and covering with subsurface soils; or 

• Excavation around the base of the pole (keeping the surface soil aside), 

cutting off the base of the pole and disposal of the pole butt at an 

appropriately licensed landfill. 

The remaining length of pole is then either taken to landfill or may be reused 

in landscaping or other works where appropriate. 

2.1.3 Surveying and Service Locating 

Following removal of poles, the centreline of the existing corridor will be 

resurveyed for placement of the new transmission line. Existing services such 

as water, sewer or telecommunications, will be located and clearly marked on 

the ground so all construction personnel are aware of their location. 

2.1.4 Foundation Excavation and Pole Erection 

The foundations for new transmission poles will be bored using a truck 

mounted unit that will access sites via access tracks. Each hole will be 

approximately one metre in diameter and three metres deep. Once each pole 

is erected, the hole will be backfilled with concrete, and spoil material 

respread around the pole, with any excess material removed from the site for 

reuse or disposal to landfill. 

2.1.5 Conductor and Earth Wire Installation 

Conductor and earth wires will be strung by initially manually feeding light 

training lines between poles, then using mechanical equipment the connected 

conductors will be pulled from large drums mounted on the rear of 

specialised vehicles. 


12




2.2 INSTALLATION OF UNDERGROUND TRANSMISSION LINES 

Installation of underground transmission lines is proposed at some locations. 

In these cases, excavation of trenches will be undertaken using standard 

excavation techniques and mechanical equipment (truck, backhoe, front end 

loader). Sand will be delivered to site and installed into trenches via truck. 

Following the laying of cables, trenches will be backfilled and compacted with 

a front end loader. Spoil will be spread during trench reinstatement, with any 

excess material removed from site for reuse or disposal to landfill. 

2.3 UPGRADE OF EXISTING SUBSTATIONS 

A number of existing substations will be upgraded as part of the proposed 

works, including Ballina, Ewingsdale Lismore BSP, Lismore South, Lennox 

Head and Mullumbimby substations. 

Upgrade of the Lismore BSP, Lismore South, Ewingsdale and Lennox Head 

substations from 66kV to 132kV capacity will generally involve replacement of 

existing infrastructure with refurbished equipment, and extensions to existing 

or installation of new bus lines within the current site boundaries. No 

significant excavation activities will be required at any of these sites. 

Upgrade of the Mullumbimby and Ballina substations will involve expansion 

of the facility outside the existing substation compound, this will involve 

construction activities similar to those associated with construction of the new 

substations as described below. 

2.4 CONSTRUCTION OF NEW SUBSTATIONS 

The proposed works include construction of new substations at Suffolk Park 

and near Brunswick Heads that will generally involve the following 

construction activities: 

• Site establishment and access; 

• Site scrubbing and vegetation removal; 

• Foundation excavation and construction of hardstand pads; 

• Construction of bunding and oil containment devices for transformers; 

• Construction of sealed surfaces (concrete and asphalt); 


13




• Construction of buildings; 

• Installation of electrical infrastructure; 

• Erection of boundary fencing; and 

• Site commissioning. 

Further details of the specific works associated with the construction of the 

Suffolk Park substation and associated facilities are provided below: 

• The substation is to be constructed on Lot 9 DP 588885, at the end of Yagers 

Lane. Construction of a new access road will be required from Yagers Lane 

through the disused piggery site to the west, which will include installation 

of a new culvert crossing through a gully adjacent to the substation site. 

The access road will be approximately 6m wide and will consist of a two 

coat bitumen seal; 

• Upgrade works along Yagers Lane and Skinners Shoot Road will be 

required to accommodate the heavy and oversized loads associated with 

construction and operation of the substation. This work will involve 

widening of the existing sealed sections of Skinners Road from 3m to 4m 

and bitumen surfacing of the wider unsealed sections. Sections of Yagers 

Lane will also require widening and upgrade of existing culverts. Some 

trimming of overhanging branches along the access roads will be required 

to minimise the potential for damage to vehicles; 

• Creation of an emergency 4WD access route via Lot 9/588885 via Old 

Bangalow Road will also be required in the case of flooding along Skinners 

Shoot Road; 

• Construction of the substation compound will involve earthworks activities 

and laying of aggregate or compacted gravel surfaces, with two coat 

bitumen seal in areas requiring vehicle access. The site will be surrounded 

by a 3.0m high security chain mesh fence, and 0.6m of razor wire; 

• Within the substation compound, a switch room building (approximate 

dimensions 14m by 5m by 4m high) and a control building (approximate 

dimensions 16m by 5m by 4m high) will be constructed using concrete 

blocks. 

• Electrical infrastructure including numerous 132kV and 11kV feeders, two 

66/11kV transformers and an 11kV capacitor bank will be installed within 

the substation compound; 


14




• Construction of site services, will include construction of a potable water 

main connection to the reservoir at Old Bangalow Road, installation of a 

rainwater tank for non-potable uses, and installation of a septic tank and 

evapotranspiration/absorption beds/shallow disposal trenches for 

treatment of effluent from the toilet facility on site; 

• Site landscaping will include clearing of a minimum 4m buffer zone and 

planting of approximately 15m to 20m vegetation buffer around the 

boundary of the facility. 

The site for the proposed Brunswick Heads substation has not been finalised. 

Further details regarding the construction of the Brunswick Heads substation 

will be provided in a separate sub-plan to this CEMP upon completion of the 

site selection and assessment and approval of same. 

2.5 ANCILLARY FACILITIES 

In relation to this project ancillary facilities include site compounds, laydown 

areas, stockpiles and carparking areas. These facilities will be managed in 

accordance with the MCoA and this CEMP. 

2.6 HOURS OF WORK 

Construction activities will generally be restricted to the hours of 7:00am and 

6:00pm Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 1:00pm Saturdays and at no time on 

Sundays or Public Holidays. In circumstances where specific work activities 

are required outside of these hours they will not be undertaken without the 

prior written approval of the Director-General of the NSW Department of 

Planning. This will require a request accompanied by details of the nature 

and need for the activities undertaken during the varied hours will not 

adversely impact on the acoustic amenity of sensitive receivers in the vicinity 

of the site. Such works will be strictly managed in accordance with the 

appropriate sub plans and consultation with the relevant stakeholders. 

Any activities resulting in impulsive or tonal noise emissions (such as rock 

breaking or rock hammering) will be limited in the vicinity of sensitive 

receivers to 9:00am to 12:00pm Monday to Saturday, and 2:00 pm to 5:00pm, 

Monday to Friday. 


15




2.7 PROPERTY ACCESS 

Country Energy will, prior to the commencement of construction, consult with 

each landholder whose property is directly impacted by the Project regarding 

the terms and conditions relating to access arrangements for construction 

activities on their land. 

Primary access routes to and from properties will be kept open for the 

duration of construction works or alternative access will be provided to land 

holders. 

2.8 CONSTRUCTION WORKFORCE 

It is expected both Country Energy employees and Contractors will perform 

the construction activities during the construction period. Given the staged 

approach to construction, it is estimated that a small construction workforce 

will be required with peak numbers at approximately 100 persons during 

large work programs such as construction of new substations. 


16




3 ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECTS, IMPACTS AND RISK ASSESSMENT 

3.1 ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECTS 

Provided below is a description of the environment through which the project 

traverses. In order to adequately describe the variance in environmental 

conditions across the footprint of the project, this description has been broken 

into regional components. 

3.1.1 Mullumbimby to Ewingsdale 

The Mullumbimby substation is located approximately 5km south west of the 

township of Mullumbimby, adjacent to Wilsons Creek Road. It is located 

within a relatively remote gully adjacent to a hillside and surrounded 

predominantly by rural residential holdings. 

The proposed transmission line upgrade works between Mullumbimby and 

Ewingsdale will occur within the existing cleared electricity easement, with 

the exception of a deviation at it’s entry to the Ewingsdale substation. The 

majority of the existing easement is cleared agricultural land with some 

scattered trees. 

The section around Mullumbimby traverses hilly country before crossing a 

ridgeline at Coolomon Scenic Drive where it then follows an undulating 

valley to Ewingsdale. 

3.1.2 Ewingsdale to Suffolk Park 

Ewingsdale substation is located approximately 500m east of the Pacific 

Highway, adjacent to Ewingsdale Road, and approximately 180m north west 

of the nearest residences within the township of Ewingsdale. 

The transmission line upgrade works between Ewingsdale and Suffolk Park 

are generally located within the existing electricity easement, with the 

exception of a new underground section through Ewingsdale and an altered 

alignment running into the Suffolk Park substation. The majority of the 

existing easement is cleared agricultural land with some scattered trees. 

The transmission line passes through the residential area of Ewingsdale then 

through low lying areas of swamp south east of Ewingsdale, where it also 

traverses a 1km section of native vegetation that provides a corridor for fauna 

movement, before extending to Skinners Shoot. 


17




Approaching Skinners Shoot, the transmission line spans an existing quarry 

and extends through approximately 0.3km of adjacent significant vegetation, 

including vegetation identified as Swamp Schlerophyll Forest and Moist 

Sclerophyll Forest. 

Approximately three kilometres of land classed as medium probability Acid 

Sulfate Soil is intersected by the network. 

3.1.3 Suffolk Park to Lennox Head 

The proposed Suffolk Park substation site is located at the end of Yagers Lane, 

approximately 1.3km west of the fringe of the township of Suffolk Park, and is 

surrounded by cleared agricultural lands. 

The transmission line upgrade works between Suffolk Park and Lennox Head 

are generally located within the existing electricity easement, with the 

exception of a small realignment adjacent to the railway line. The majority of 

the existing easement is cleared agricultural land with some scattered trees. 

From the Suffolk Park substation site, the transmission line crosses the main 

North Coast Railway Line then passes through generally cleared hilly rural 

land to the Lennox Head substation. Along this route, the easement intersects 

two areas of native vegetation that act as corridors for fauna movement. At 

Newrybar Swamp Road, the easement extends through an area adjacent to a 

vegetation community identified as Swamp Oak Forest, and further south 

past a Swamp Schlerophyll Forest. 

Greater than half the line travels through land classified as medium 

probability of Acid Sulfate Soils. 

3.1.4 Lennox Head to Ballina 

The Lennox Head substation is located approximately 4km north west of the 

township of Lennox Head, and is surrounded predominantly by rural land 

uses including an adjoining sugar cane field to the east. 

The transmission line upgrade works between Lennox Head and Ballina are 

generally located within the existing electricity easement, with the exception 

of a section that is currently being relocated by the RTA as part of the Pacific 

Highway Ballina Bypass project, and another that will deviate around a 

residential development at Ferngrove. 

The majority of the existing easement is cleared agricultural land with some 

scattered trees. Adjacent vegetation is predominantly cleared pasture and 

roadside vegetation. 


18




The easement passes two adjacent communities of Swamp Schlerophyll Forest 

and one community of Swamp Oak Forest. The easement passes through two 

areas of native vegetation that act as fauna movement corridors. 

3.1.5 Ballina to Alstonville 

The Ballina substation is located within the township of Ballina, and is 

surrounded predominantly by residential development. 

The transmission line upgrade works between Ballina and Alstonville are 

generally located within the existing electricity easement, however in order to 

position the line away from local residential areas a number of realignments 

are proposed along sections of Barlows Road, the Bruxner Highway near Gap 

Road, and through an area just outside Alstonville. Transmission lines will 

also be realigned along a section leading into and around the Alstonville 

substation. 

The majority of the proposed route upgrade occurs within agricultural land 

and road reserves. Vegetation within the easement generally consists of exotic 

grasses, weeds, sugarcane and exotic garden trees. 

The easement corridor extends adjacent to areas of residential, open space, 

industrial and wetlands. Just west of Ballina, the corridor spans a SEPP 14 

wetland. It also intersects three areas of native vegetation that act as fauna 

movement corridors and extends adjacent to a number of vegetation 

communities identified as Swamp Oak Floodplain Forest and Swamp 

Sclerophyll Forest. 

3.1.6 Alstonville to Lismore 

The Alstonville substation is located approximately 2km south of the 

township of Alstonville, and is surrounded predominantly by rural land uses. 

The proposed works between Alstonville and Lismore are generally located 

within existing electricity easements, however there are some minor 

deviations proposed to the east of the Lismore switching station, and the 

section leading into the Lismore substation west of the Bruxner Highway. 

The proposed dual circuit into the Lismore substation includes one line that 

skirts to the south of the township of Lismore, and another that connects to 

the Lismore South substation and traverses under the take-off/landing zones 

of the Lismore Airport. 

The Lismore to Alstonville line traverses a number of waterways including 

Marom Creek, Tucki Tucki Creek and the Wilsons River. 


19




The Lismore South Substation to Lismore Switching Station route traverses 

the Wilsons River and the low lying flood affected land at the base of ‘Mount 

Wilson’. It passes through rural land and the residential area of south 

Lismore. 

Lismore substation is located approximately 2km southwest of the township 

of Lismore, and is surrounded predominantly by rural land uses, with the 

nearest residences located on rural properties approximately 400m to the west 

and 500m to the southeast. 

Lismore South substation is located on the outskirts of Lismore within an area 

dominated by light industry. The site comprises a heritage listed power 

station, along with other infrastructure. 

The majority of vegetation within the area is cleared pasture and Macadamia 

crops with occasional patches of isolated Eucalypt and Camphor Laurel trees. 

3.2 RISK MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK 

Country Energy aims to integrate risk management into all that it does and 

prevent environmental incidents from occurring and to appropriately control 

any incident which may occur. This aim is supported by the Country Energy 

Risk Management Policy dated July 2007. 

The Country Energy risk assessment process is based on AS/NZS 4360:2004 

and aims to identify potential environmental hazards, assess risks and 

provide a mechanism for developing risk controls. 

The following risk matrix tables outline Country Energy’s risk assessment 

process and may be adopted as a guide when predicting the potential level of 

risk of construction activities. 


20




Table 3.1 

Qualitative Measures of Consequence or Impact 

Insignificant Minor Moderate Major Catastrophic 

Minimal impact on natural 

or cultural resources 

Minimal environmental 

Reversible environmental Irreversible 

damage not violating law 

or regulation 

Mitigatable environmental 

damage without violation 

of law or regulation where 

restoration activities can be 

accomplished. 

damage causing a violation 

of law or regulation 

1. Source: CORPORATE GUIDELINE – Safety, Health and Environmental Management: No. CECG1000 

severe 

environmental damage that 

violates law or regulation. 

Table 3.2 

Qualitative Measures of Likelihood 

Level Description Detail Description Probability Per Annum 

1 Rare The event is known to have occurred elsewhere – once every 20 years + 0% - 5% 

2 Unlikely The event has not yet occurred but could occur at some time – once every 5% - 10% 

10 to 20 years 

3 Possible The event could occur once or at any time – once every 5 to 10 years 10% - 20% 

4 Likely The event will occur several times – once every 1 to 5 years 20% – 98% 

5 Almost Certain This event will occur frequently during the year 98% - 100% 

1. Source: CORPORATE GUIDELINE – Safety, Health and Environmental Management: No. CECG1000 


21




Table 3.3 

Qualitative Risk Analysis Matrix – Level of Risk 

Likelihood 

Almost 

Certain 

Consequences 

Insignificant Minor Moderate Major Catastrophic 

Low Moderate High Very High Very High 

Likely Low Low Moderate High Very High 

Possible Very Low Low Moderate High High 

Unlikely Very Low Very Low Low Moderate High 

Rare Very Low Very Low Low Moderate Moderate 

1. Source: CORPORATE GUIDELINE – Safety, Health and Environmental Management: No. 

CECG1000 

3.3 RISK IDENTIFICATION AND ASSESSMENT 

The environmental hazards and risks associated with the proposed 

construction activities will be identified and assessed by the constructor prior 

to works commencing. 

Appendix D outlines the risk assessment prepared as part of the project impact 

assessment and Environment Assessment Report (ERM Australia, 2009a). 

This risk assessment should be used as a basis and further defined prior to 

construction by the constructor to outline any additional environmental risks 

and implementation of associated controls. 

3.4 SENSITIVE AREAS AND RECEPTORS 

Sit specific sensitive area diagrams will be prepared in conjunction with the 

site CMSs. These diagrams will include locations of all sensitive receptors and 

will be distributed for display in site compounds. Sensitive area diagrams will 

include as appropriate: 

• River and creek crossings including riparian areas, mangroves etc; 

• Aboriginal/ heritage locations; 

• State Forests and National Parks; 

• Ecologically Endangered Communities; 

• Threatened species, populations or their habitats; 

• Fauna Corridors; 

• Areas of Potential Acid Sulphate Soils; 

• Proximity to neighbouring properties and fencing; 


22




• Construction buffer boundaries; and 

• Local service roads. 

The diagrams will also provide a visual, day to day management tool for onsite 

environmental management personnel, auditors and regulatory agencies. 

Key sensitive areas are shown on the sensitive area plans provided in 

Appendix C. 

3.5 ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL MEASURES AND PROCEDURES 

A range of environmental obligations and control measures have been 

identified in the environmental documents including the project 

Environmental Assessment Report, MCoA and Country Energy requirements. 

Specific measures and procedures have been identified to address each of the 

obligations and included in relevant Sub-plans. This process of matching 

actions with obligations and assigning responsibility for each action will 

ensure that each project obligation is being implemented. 

In addition, CMSs will be prepared for specific activities to ensure sound 

environmental practices are implemented and to minimise the risk of 

environmental incidents or system failures. 

• works in waterways including any culvert installations and temporary 

waterway crossings; 

• working near sensitive areas; 

• installation and management of erosion and sediment controls; and 

• excavation and/or treatment of contaminated soil. 

CMS’s will be prepared in consultation with the Country Energy’s 

Superintendant and the Project Environmental Representative (ER) prior to 

the commencement of identified activities. 

The timing of installation of control measures will be critical to ensuring that 

environmental obligations are met within the required timeframe and that 

controls are effective in achieving their purpose. For example, the installation 

of controls or crossings in a watercourse must consider seasonal weather 

patterns (flooding or scouring), fish migration times and general disturbance 

issues. 


23




4 LEGISLATIVE AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS 

4.1 OVERARCHING PROJECT LEGISLATIVE POSITION AND CONDITIONS 

In November 2007, Country Energy submitted a request to the Minister for 

Planning for a project specific order to be made under Section 75B of the 

Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act) and to authorise 

the lodgement of a concept plan for the Project. A project specific order and 

authorisation for the lodgement of a concept plan was issued on 1 February 

2008. 

A Line Route Selection (LRS) Study was completed by ERM in 2008, which 

involved desktop and site investigations and examined a number of 

transmission line route options. The investigations revealed that much of the 

upgrade can be accommodated within existing transmission line corridors, 

thereby reducing the environmental and social implications of the project. 

In January 2009, ERM completed the Environmental Assessment report (EA) 

for the project, which was submitted to the Minister for Planning seeking 

Concept Approval for the project under Part 3A of the EP&A Act and Project 

Approval for Phase 1 of the project. Draft Project approval/development 

consent has been received from the NSW Department of Planning. 

The Project was not considered to be a controlled action under the 

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

trigger any other Commonwealth environmental legislation. 

4.1.1 Minister’s Conditions of Approval 

In accordance with section 75B(1) of the EP&A Act, the Project was considered 

a ‘Major Infrastructure Project’ and Concept Approval for the Project 

Approval for Phase 1 of the project has been received from the NSW 

Department of Planning. 

Condition 3.3 of the Project Approval outlines the requirements for the 

preparation and approval by the Department of Planning of a CEMP. 

Numerous other construction related MCoA elements have been addressed 

within this CEMP and a summary of these requirements and where they are 

addressed in this CEMP are outlined in Table 4.1. 


24




Table 4.1 

MCoA Requirements 

MCoA Item No. Detail CEMP Response 

Condition 2.1- 2.3 Hours of Construction and Operation CEMP Section 2.6 

Noise & Vibration Sub-plan 

Condition 2.4- 2.6 Construction noise and vibration conditions Noise & Vibration Sub-plan 

Condition 2.8- 2.12 Construction ecological conditions Flora and Fauna Sub-plan 

Condition 2.14- 2.17 Construction indigenous heritage conditions Aboriginal Cultural Heritage 

Sub-plan 

Condition 2.18- 2.24 Construction non-indigenous heritage conditions Aboriginal Cultural Heritage 

Sub-plan 

Condition 2.25- 2.29 Roadworks and Traffic Management Traffic Management Sub-plan 

Condition 2.30- 2.31 Property access conditions CEMP Section 2.7 

Condition 2.32- 2.36 Construction soil and water quality conditions Soil and Water Management 

Sub-plan 

Condition 2.37 Contaminated land conditions Pollution Prevention Sub-plan 

Condition 2.38-2.39 Construction air quality conditions Pollution Prevention Sub-plan 

Condition 2.40-2.43 Waste generation and management conditions Pollution Prevention Sub-plan 

Condition 2.44 Lighting conditions Pollution Prevention Sub-plan 

Condition 2.45 Bunding and spill management conditions Pollution Prevention Sub-plan 

Condition 3.2 Environmental Representative condition CEMP Section 6.1 

Condition 3.3 

The Proponent shall prepare and implement a CEMP 


Condition 3.4 Construction related plans CEMP Sub-plans 

1. Source: NSW Minister for Planning, draft Project Approval MCoA, file reference S07/01493 

4.1.2 Project Environmental Obligations 

In summary, the following environmental obligations are applicable to the 

Project: 

• Minister’s Conditions of Approval for Concept Plan; 

• Minister’s Condition of Approval for Project; and 

• Preferred Project Report (ERM Australia, 2009b) Revised Statement of 

Commitments. 

A copy of the Minister’s Conditions of Approval is included as Appendix E and 

the Statement of Commitments are included as Appendix F. 

4.2 LEGISLATION AND POLICIES 

The applicable legal and other requirements related to environmental 

management for the Project are outlined below: 


25




4.2.1 Commonwealth Legislation 

Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 

4.2.2 State Legislation 

Protection of the Environment and Operations Act 1997 and subordinate 

legislation including: 

• Protection of the Environment Operations (Clean Air) Regulation 2002; 

• Protection of the Environment Operations (Noise Control) Regulation 2008; 

• Protection of the Environment Operations (Waste) Regulation 2005; and 

• Protection of the Environment Operations (General) Regulation 2009 

Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 

Environmentally Hazardous Chemicals Act 1985 and Environmentally Hazardous 

Chemicals Regulation 2008 

Pesticides Act 1999 

Waste Avoidance and Resource Recovery Act 2001 

Water Management Act 2000 

Contaminated Land Management Act 1997 

Local Government Act 1993 

Roads Act 1993 

Heritage Act 1977 

Historic Houses Act 1980 

Native Vegetation Act 2003 

Noxious Weeds Act 1993 

Rural Fires Act 1997 

Water Act 1912 

OHS Act 2000 


26




Country Energy subscribes to Lawlex Legislation Service and Environment 

Essentials. These services provide up-to-date legislative and regulatory 

change – across all jurisdictions such as follows: 

• New bills; 

• Assents; 

• Proclamations; 

• New regulations; 

• Amendments; and 

• Repeals. 

Legislative updates will be directly presented to the Project Environmental 

Coordinator who will be responsible for updating relevant documentation 

and informing/training personnel on any new or changed requirements. 

4.2.3 Local Government 

The Project footprint spans the Local Government Areas of Byron, Ballina and 

Lismore, thus the key local planning provisions applicable to the project 

include: 

• Byron Local Environmental Plan 1988 (Byron LEP); 

• Ballina Local Environmental Plan 1987 (Ballina LEP); and 

• Lismore Local Environmental Plan 2000 (Lismore LEP). 

4.2.4 Policies, Procedures and Other Guidance 

All project activities will be undertaken in accordance with Country Energy’s 

Environmental Policy. Country Energy will ensure that this environmental 

policy and environmental management procedures are understood and 

adhered to by project personnel at all levels, throughout all stages of 

construction. 

Country Energy has a comprehensive internal manual for environmental risk 

management, CEM7022 Environmental Operations Manual, which details 

potential issues and mitigation measures for the range of potential 

environmental issues applicable to this Project. These and other standards, 

policies and guidance (i.e. Australian Standards) are outlined below in 

Table 4.2. 


27




Table 4.2 

Environmental Standards, Policies and Guidelines 

Environmental 

Risk Issue 

Flora and Fauna 

Heritage 

Noise 

vibration 

and 

Standards, Policies and Guidelines 

• CEPG 8008 Vegetation Management Plan 

• CEM7022 Environmental Operations Manual: 

o CEM7022.07 – Land Use 

o CEM7022.08 – Flora and Fauna 

• NPWS Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Standards 

• NSW Heritage Branch guidelines 

• NSW Department of Environment and Conservation’s Interim 

Community Consultation Guidelines for Applicants (Draft, December 

2004) 


o CEM7022.10 – Cultural and Heritage 

• AS 1055 (1997) Acoustic – Description and Measurement of 

Environmental Noise 

• AS 1259 -1990: Acoustic – Sound Level Meters 

• AS2107 Acoustics – Recommended Design Sound Levels and 

Reverberation Times for Building Interiors 

• NSW DECCW Industrial Noise Policy, January 2000 

• NSW DECCW Environment Criteria for Road Traffic Noise, May 1999 

• NSW DECCW Assessing Vibration: A Technical Guide, February 2006 

• NSW DECCW Interim Construction Noise Guidelines, July 2009 


o CEM7022.05 – Noise 

Soil and Water • Urban Erosion and Sediment Control Handbook, DLWC, 1992 

• Managing Urban Stormwater: Soils and Construction, “The Blue Book” – 

Landcom, 2004 

• The NSW Wetlands Management Policy, DLWC – June 1996 & Action 

Plan – DLWC 1998/99 

• ANZECC Australian Water Quality Guidelines for Fresh and Marine 

Waters, 2000 

• Guidelines for the Planning, Construction and Maintenance of Access 

Tracks, DLWC 1994 


o CEM7022.04 – Water 

o CEM7022.07 – Land Use 

Acid 

Soils 

Sulphate 

Contaminated 

Sites 

• DLWC Acid Sulphate Soils Maps 

• DECCW publication “Assessing and Managing Acid Sulphate Soils” 

• ASSMAC Acid Sulphate Soil Management Guidelines 1998 

• Acid Sulphate Soils Manual – DUAP 

• Lismore DCP Part A – Chapter 17 


o CEM7022. 07 Land Use 

• National Environment Protection Measure 1999 

• DECCW Waste Classification Guidelines 2008 

• DECCW – Contaminated Sites – Guidelines for Consultants Reporting on 

Contaminated Sites 1997 

• DECCW – Contaminated Sites – Sampling Design Guidelines 1995 

• Occupational Health & Safety Regulation 2001 

• Code of Practice for the Safe Removal of Asbestos [NOHSC 2002 (2005)] 

• Code of Practice for the Management and Control of Asbestos in 

Workplaces [NOHSC 2018 (2005)] 


28





Risk Issue 

Air Quality and 

Dust 

Standards, Policies and Guidelines 


o CEM7022. 07 Land Use 

o CEM7022.11 Hazardous Materials 

• AS 2922 (1987) Ambient Air Guide for Siting of Sampling Equipment 

• AS 3580.10.1 (1991) Depositional Dust Monitoring 


o CEM7022.03 – Air 

Waste • DECCW Waste Classification Guidelines 2008 


o CEM7022.06 Waste 

o CEM7022.07 Land Use 

o CEM7022.08 Flora and Fauna 

o CEM7022.11 Hazardous Materials 

Traffic 

• CEPG2328 Traffic Control Safety 

• RTA Traffic Control at Worksites 2003 

4.3 APPROVALS, LICENCES AND PERMITS 

In accordance with section 75B(1) of the EP&A Act, the Project was considered 

a ‘Major Infrastructure Project’ and Concept Approval and Project Approval 

Project Approval have been received from the NSW Department of Planning. 

Condition 3.3 of the Project Approval outlines the requirements for the 

preparation by Country Energy and subsequent approval by the NSW 

Department of Planning of a CEMP. The Project CEMP incorporates other 

MCoA requirements related to construction environmental issues and 

management as detailed in Table 4.1 above. 

The Environmental Management Sub-plans detail ‘other’ specific legislative 

obligations, however, contractors are responsible for identifying and obtaining 

any additional approvals and/or permits relating to construction activities. 

However, no specific permits or licences have been identified pertaining to 

constructions activities. 

Other service provision contractors will be required to have all necessary 

licences for undertaking their works (i.e. appropriately licensed solid and 

liquid waste contractors). 


29




5 ENVIRONMENTAL OBJECTIVES, TARGETS AND PERFORMANCE 

INDICATORS 

Objectives and targets have been developed in line with Country Energy’s 

Environment Policy (Appendix A), values and mission and reflect emerging 

trends in environmental sustainability and construction management. 

The CEMP objectives and targets link to the Environmental Assessment 

Report (ERM Australia, 2009a) to Country Energy’s own Environmental 

Policy and to the specific requirements of the MCoA. Updated annually, these 

objectives and targets will reflect the risks identified in the risk assessment 

process. 

The performance against the set objectives and targets will be measured and 

monitored through a number of processes including analysis of the 

information provided for monthly performance measurement reports, 

operational meetings, incident reports and staff performance management. 

Key Performance Indictors (KPIs) will be further developed by the constructor 

to demonstrate the successful implementation of the environmental 

commitments for the project. KPIs may be further defined to cover: 

• Regulatory compliance; 

• Compliance with EMP processes; 

• Demonstration of continuous improvement; 

• Reportable environmental incidents or offences; and 

• Minimising environmental impacts and meeting objectives. 

Table 5.1 outlines the CEMP objectives, targets, and key performance 

indicators for the Project. 


30




Table 5.1 

Objectives, Targets and KPI’s 

Environmental Issue Objective Target Key Performance Indicators 

(Reference) 


Approvals 


Aboriginal Heritage 

European Heritage 

Soil and Water 

Management 

Comply with all applicable legislation, regulations, 

standards, codes and licenses that relate to the project. 

Minimise disturbance to native flora and fauna. 

Minimise removal of existing native vegetation and 

potential fauna habitat. 

To protect all Aboriginal heritage items impacted by 

the Project’s construction. 

To protect all European heritage items impacted by 

the Project’s construction. 

To implement appropriate Environmental 

Management Practices (EMPs) to soil and water 

quality management. 

• 100% compliance. CEMP and/or Sub Plan 

• Carry out activities within existing cleared 

transmission corridors wherever possible. 

• Where vegetation removal is required, conduct 

pre clearance assessment. 

• No harm to fauna. 

• Avoid and minimise disturbance to Aboriginal 

heritage wherever practicable. 

• Where disturbance of items of Aboriginal heritage 

is unavoidable, implement appropriate 

management measures to ensure protection of all 

disturbed items. 

• Avoid and minimise disturbance to European 

heritage wherever practicable. 

• Where disturbance of items of European heritage 

is unavoidable, implement appropriate 

management measures to ensure protection of all 

disturbed items. 

• Manage disturbed and contaminated soil, 

groundwater and PASS in accordance with 

Environmental Legislation and DECCW 

Guidelines. 

Noise Management To implement EMPs to minimise noise impacts. • To minimise noise related impacts resulting from 

construction and associated activities. 

• Zero noise related complaints from community. 

Air Quality 


To implement EMPs to minimise air quality impacts. • To minimise air pollution resulting from 

construction and associated activities. 

• Zero air quality related complaints from 

community. 

Flora and Fauna Sub Plan 

Aboriginal and Cultural 

Heritage Sub Plan 

Aboriginal and Cultural 

Heritage Sub Plan 

Soil and Water Management 

Sub Plan 

Noise and Vibration 

Management Sub Plan 

Pollution 

Prevention 

Management Sub-plan 


31




Environmental Issue Objective Target Key Performance Indicators 

(Reference) 

Waste Management 

To minimise waste resulting from the Project’s 

construction, and maximise recycling. 

To avoid pollution to the environment caused by 

fuels, oils or chemicals stored or used during the 

Project’s construction. 

• Manage waste in accordance with Environmental 

Legislation and DECCW Guidelines. 

Pollution 

Prevention 

Management Sub-plan 

Traffic Management 

Community 


To minimise traffic impacts resulting from the 

Project’s construction. 

The community is to be kept fully informed of the 

Project. 

• Manage traffic in accordance with Council and 

RTA Guidelines. 

• Respond to community enquiries and complaints 

within 48 hours and in accordance with Country 

Energy’s guidelines. 

Traffic Management Sub Plan 

CEMP 


32




6 CEMP IMPLEMENTATION 

6.1 STRUCTURE, ROLES, RESPONSIBILITIES AND AUTHORITY 

This section of the CEMP designates the responsibilities of Country Energy 

personnel, the independent Environmental Representative and the 

constructors in implementing this CEMP. It also sets out the role, 

responsibility, authority and accountability of the personnel relevant to the 

construction of the Project. All personnel and contractors are accountable 

through conditions of employment or contracts with each individual 

responsible for ensuring that their work complies with the stated CEMP 

procedures. 

Figure 6.1 provides a diagram that shows the roles and responsibilities of the 

key Country Energy personnel, the independent Environmental 

Representative and the constructors in implementing this CEMP. 


33




DoP 

Country 

Energy 

Project 

Manager 

Country 


ER 

GHD 

Construction 

Work 

Coordinator 

Country 


Project 


Coordinator 



Site Supervisor 

Consultants 

Personnel 

Figure 6.1 

CEMP Organisational Chart 


34




The duties and responsibilities of all Country Energy staff and the 

independent Environmental Representative are defined in Position 

Descriptions, a copy of which is held by the staff member. Table 6.1 provides a 

summary of the roles and responsibilities. 

Table 6.1 

Roles and Responsibilities 

Role 

Project Manager 

Responsibility and Authority 

The Project Manager is responsible for ensuring adequate 

environmental resources and budget is allocated to the Project 

and that the CEMP has been developed and all hazards and 

risks associated with the works to be carried out have been 

identified and effective control measures implemented 

throughout the project to minimise the health and safety risk 

to all persons and the local environment, directly or indirectly 

involved in the project. 

Construction Works 

Coordinator 

Authority is given for: 

• Approval of the CEMP; 

• Dismissal of personnel if required for environmental noncompliance. 

The Works Coordinator is responsible for ensuring the project 

has the necessary resources allocated to allow the project to 

run smoothly and without health, safety and environment risk 

to the persons and property involved in the completion of the 

works. 

Construction Site 

Supervisor 


• Stopping work if unacceptable impact is likely to occur. 

The Site Supervisor is responsible for ensuring the day to day 

running of the project is performed in a safe manner and that 

all employees and contractors adhere to all relevant 

regulations, policies and procedures identified in the CEMP. 

The Site Supervisor is responsible for notifying the Project 

Manager if any archaeological remains are discovered during 

the course of the works. 



Project Environmental 

Coordinator 

Accountable for environmental outcomes and compliance of 

the Project with client requirements and legislative regulatory 

framework. 

Project Environmental Coordinator is responsible for: 

• Ensuring appropriate internal resources are dedicated to 

the Project and that Contractor commitment is 

demonstrated and effective; 

• Ensuring the Project complies with all current 

environmental and safety legislation as well as all relevant 

Country Energy policies and procedures; and 

Auditing the Environment Management Plans (in accordance 

with their audit schedule) and providing reports to interested 


35




Role 

parties. 


The Project Environmental Coordinator is also responsible to 

ensure that all works are performed in an environmentally 

friendly manner and to carry out regular checks to identify 

possible hazards and risks that may have arisen as a result of 

the works being performed. 

With regard to the above, the key responsibilities are to: 

• Liaise with designers and construction manager with 

regard to construction program and activities on site; 

• Provide input to the CEMP and sub-plans prior to the 

start of construction; 

• Implement the project environmental management 

system; 

• Maintain, assess and monitor the CEMP; 

• Ensure that all project environmental obligations are met; 

• Ensure no work requiring a licence or permit is 

undertaken without the (up to date) licence or permit 

required; 

• Complete environmental checklists; 

• Provide input and advice to engineers on work method 

statements; 

• Provide environmental induction and training; 

• Identify and prepare environmental induction and 

training materials; 

• Liaise with government agencies and relevant 

stakeholders; 

• Providing a regular construction program identifying 

critical construction activities to the ER; 

• Manage the environmental budget; 

• Respond to environmental incidents; 

• Manage environmental sub-consultants; 

• Oversee the maintenance of environmental documents; 

• Prepare reports on compliance; and 

• Monitor the revegetation activities along the project route. 


Representative 

(independent person) 


• Amendment and revision of the CEMP; 

• Issuing of non-conformances; 


The key responsibilities are to: 

• Principal point of advice in relation to all questions and 

complaints concerning environmental performance of the 

project; 

• Compliance with MCoA; 

• Monitor implementation of CEMP and monitoring 

programs; 

• Facilitate induction & training program; 

• Monitor outcomes of all CEMP and advise Proponent 

upon the achievement of all project environmental 

outcomes; 

• Authority to require reasonable steps to be taken to avoid 

or minimise environmental impacts; 


36




Personnel 

Role 


• Have responsibility for considering and advising the 

Proponent on all matters specified in MCoA and other 

licences and approvals relating to environmental matters; 

• Stopping work if unacceptable impact is likely to occur; 

• Ensure environmental auditing is undertaken in 

accordance with the requirements of the CEMP; and 

• Given authority and independence to require reasonable 

steps to be taken to avoid or minimise or minimise 

environmental impacts and direct for work to be stopped 

should an adverse impact on the environment be likely to 

occur. 

All construction employees are equally responsible for Safety 

and Environment management at the work site and through 

the Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment and Control 

(HIRAC) process will be involved in: 

• Identifying the hazards 

• Assessing the risks 

• Implementing the control measures after considering the 

Hierarchy of Controls 

• Evaluating and monitoring the controls 

All work on this project shall be done in accordance with 

Country Energy’s Overhead and Underground design manual 

or as requested by the principal contractor. 

6.1.1 Consultants 

Environmental and/or heritage consultants (i.e. ecologists, archaeologists) 

may be commissioned by Country Energy (as required) to provide specialist 

input and advice on environmental matters, undertake surveys, inspections 

and monitoring. Any consultants engaged will be required to undertake their 

activities in accordance with this CEMP. 

6.2 SUBCONTRACTOR MANAGEMENT 

Some construction activities and services may be required to be performed by 

subcontractors, and as such, Country Energy requires that its subcontractors 

demonstrate an understanding and management of their potential 

environmental impact. 

Depending upon the complexity of the sub-contractor’s work, Country Energy 

may require the sub-contractor to produce documentation detailing their own 

environmental management systems and where necessary to prepare their 

own Project specific CEMPs, and/or Environmental Procedures to augment 

this Project CEMP. Details within the sub-contractors EMP/s will be 

consistent with this CEMP and the environmental requirements. 


37




Sub-contractors working on the Project will be required to: 

• Observe sub-contract and statutory requirements relating to 

environmental protection and all relevant Environmental Law and to 

follow instructions issued by the Country Energy management and 

supervisory personnel; 

• Nominate site representatives to liaise with the Contractor or Country 

Energy with respect to environmental requirements for the site activities; 

• Cooperate fully with site emergency incident procedures and consultative 

arrangements; and 

• Follow procedures, mitigation measures and relevant reporting 

requirements identified in the CEMP and associated Sub-plans. 

The Project Manager in consultation with the Project Environmental 

Coordinator will determine the appropriate environmental management 

requirements which will be applicable to specific sub-contractors during 

contract meetings, and include these in any subcontract agreement or contract. 

In addition, relevant references to environmental management and control 

reflecting the Environmental Assessment report and associated MCoA will be 

included in sub-contract documentation. 

Subcontractor personnel will be included in the on-site induction process prior 

to accessing any site, procedure reviews and any daily pre-start talks. 

Country Energy will ensure that work undertaken by subcontractors is 

monitored through the site inspection process. Regular site surveillance 

(including inspections and audits) of subcontractors will be made by the 

Superintendents/Supervisors and the Project Environmental Coordinator to 

assess the effectiveness of the environmental protection measures being used 

by the subcontractor and to determine compliance with the requirements of 

the CEMP. 

Internal audits will also be undertaken to assess: 

• Compliance with contractual requirements; 

• Knowledge of and compliance with the CEMP; and 

• Work procedures and environmental management controls used on site as 

identified in the CEMP and associated Sub-plans. 


38




6.3 TRAINING, AWARENESS AND COMPETENCE 

6.3.1 Training 

Country Energy provides environmental training to its employees. The 

objectives of the training are to provide a base level understanding of their 

individual role in maintaining this CEMP. Training is also provided for 

specific tasks to ensure employees are competent to perform their required 

duties. 

Country Energy will identify environmental training requirements during the 

conduct of the Project using a specific Identification of Immediate Training 

Needs analysis and maintaining a Staff Training Register. The Project 

Environmental Coordinator will assist in the identification of training needs, 

the preparation of training material and the running of training sessions 

where appropriate. 

6.3.2 Project Induction 

Country Energy inducts all employees, contractors, subcontractors and 

visitors prior to commencing works and conducts annual refresher inductions. 

As part of the induction process personnel are made aware of key 

environmental risks relevant to their works, this CEMP and CMSs and 

Country Energy’s expectations regarding environmental performance and 

commitment. 

Country Energy employees, contractors, subcontractors and visitors are 

inducted into: 

• The importance of conformity with the environmental policy, procedures 

and the requirements of this CEMP; 

• The significance of the environmental aspects related to the actual or 

potential impacts associated with particular work activities; 

• The identification of relevant MCoA as they apply to specific work 

elements; 

• The role contractors and subcontractors play in achieving conformity with 

the contract and this CEMP and ultimately in protecting the environment; 

• The potential damage to the environment or the reputation of Country 

Energy, contractor or the subcontractor that may be caused by departing 

from the procedures specified in this CEMP; 


39




• Country Energy provides staff with specialist training as necessary to 

operate or maintain building services, building control and automation 

systems, security systems and specialised tools and equipment; 

• Country Energy employees are inducted using CEPG2260 – 

Employee/Contractor Induction supported by a Project-specific Induction 

Presentation; 

• Employee and Contractor training records are maintained using the 

Induction Checklists (CEFD6040 and CEF6378 - Short Term Induction 

Checklist) and shall be completed and returned to the Training Coordinator 

and Database Administrator; and 

• Visitors entering the project site shall be inducted using the Visitors Entry 

Permit CEFD6058. The visitor shall be accompanied by a representative of 

the contractor or Country Energy at all times. 

Procedures for incident response and reporting are also outlined through the 

induction process (see Section 6.5). 

6.3.3 Daily Pre-Start Talks 

At the commencement of each day’s work a short discussion will be held with 

all personnel to discuss: 

• The day’s construction activities; 

• Likely weather and any influence it may have on environmental controls; 

• Any impending visitors; and 

• Key health, safety and environment risks and controls required to be 

implemented during construction throughout the day. 

6.3.4 “Toolbox” Training 

A record shall be kept of all Tool Box Meetings on CEF6379 – Tool Box 

Meeting Record and a copy kept for the duration of the Project. 


40




The frequency of these meetings shall be at the discretion of the site supervisor 

however they should be held weekly as a minimum, or more often depending 

on the activity at the Project site. All items discussed at the meeting and all 

personnel attending that meeting shall be recorded. 

6.3.5 Project Environmental Alerts 

Where required, Project Environmental Alerts (consistent in nature with safety 

alerts) will be prepared to convey approved important information to the 

Construction Project Team. This information can be triggered by a recent 

incident (not necessarily within the Project site but a similar project 

throughout Australia or within a current project undertaken by Country 

Energy, infringement notice, change in acceptable work practices, good 

practices, significant weather changes, etc. 

Project Environmental Alerts will be approved for issue by the Project 

Manager with a counter approval by the relevant discipline manager. 

Project Environmental Alerts will be presented by the relevant Supervisor or 

Leading Hand at the next Shift Pre-Start, on the next staff member computer 

log in, on all Project Notice Boards and other means suitable for applicable 

project team members. 

6.4 COMMUNICATION AND CONSULTATION 

6.4.1 Internal Communication 

Country Energy employs several techniques to communicate with contractors 

and other key stakeholders. These include telephone, email and face to face 

correspondence for general environmental issues and/or specific feedback on 

a particular issue or plan i.e. review of this CEMP. 

Adequate records shall be maintained to demonstrate conformance to 

specified environmental requirements. The records to be maintained include, 

but are not limited to: 

• Important email and telephone correspondence; 

• Meeting notes; 

• Monthly performance reports; 

• Monitoring and testing records; 

• Training records; 


41




• Audit records; 

• Construction Method Statements; 

• Emergency procedures; and 

• Incident reports and investigations. 

To ensure that Project Team as a whole is effective and aware of project-wide 

lessons and issues, relevant personnel will meet at least weekly. Team 

members will also be able to table issues and seek feedback from others on 

proposed methods of construction and appropriate environmental 

management resolution. 

Typical weekly meeting agenda items will include: 

• Administration and resources; 

• Incidents and monthly reporting; 

• Environmental awareness (alerts, procedures, response flowcharts); 

• Environmental aspects / project specific tasks; and 

• New business. 

Meetings notes will be taken, with any actions noted and will be distributed to 

all attendees and any other personnel in the wider construction team on an as 

needs basis. 

In terms of managing the construction project, internal communication falls 

into the following categories: 

Table 6.2 

Communication Protocols 

Method/Medium Frequency Participants Record 

Induction 

Tool Box meeting 

and/or Daily Prestart 

Talks 

Upon commencement of 

employment (refreshed 

annually) 

Where relevant to a 

particular work activity 

All staff and 

subcontractors 

Relevant project 

personnel and 


Site meeting As required Relevant project 

personnel and 


Interested 

party/Community 

Group meeting 

As required Project Manager / 



Representative / 

Project 


Formal Record 

or Form 

Formal Record 

and/or Site 

Diary 

Notes 

Notes 


42




Method/Medium Frequency Participants Record 

Coordinator 

Management Review 

(internal) 

After 3 months, then 

once / 6months, then 

annually. 

Project Manager / 



Representative / 

Project 


Coordinator / 

Construction Works 

Coordinator 

Notes 

6.4.2 External Communication 

Country Energy will establish and maintain a dedicated Project web-site for 

the provision of electronic information in accordance with Section 4.2 of the 

Concept Plan Approval. This will be established as a dedicated site linked 

within Country Energy’s main web site (www.countryenergy.com.au). 

Country Energy has prepared a Community Information Plan in accordance 

with Section 4.3 of the Concept Plan Approval which identifies key 

stakeholders and sets out community consultation processes to be undertaken 

throughout the Project. This includes mechanisms for disseminating 

information and for receiving feedback relating to environmental 

management of the Project. Communication to stakeholders external to 

Country Energy or subcontractors will be conducted via the provision of 

electronic information through the dedicated project website, written 

correspondence on Country Energy marked letter or email, and via direct 

discussion including a dedicated telephone complaints line. 

Country Energy has an established complaints procedure for the project in 

accordance with Section 4.4 of the Concept Plan Approval. This includes the 

provision of a dedicated telephone number, postal address and email address 

for the receipt of community complaints. The details will be advertised in 

local print media, displayed on signs at the Project work sites, and will also be 

provided on the dedicated project website. 

Country Energy will record the details of all complaints in accordance with 

Section 4.5 of the Concept Plan Approval. The Complaints Register will be 

incorporated in to Country Energy’s existing complaints handling system 

(Contact Management System) which meets the requirements of Section 4.5 of 

the Concept Plan Approval (see Section 6.4.3 below). 


43




6.4.3 Complaint Management and Response 

Any site problems identified and brought to the attention of Country Energy 

by the local community or relevant authorities will be documented and acted 

upon to avoid reoccurrence. All complaints will be handled according to the 

procedure CEPG2042 Customer Complaint Handling. Procedures for 

handling complaints will include: 

• All complaints / concerns raised by local community / relevant authorities 

are to be recorded on the Complaints Register by the Project Environmental 

Coordinator; 

• All complaints to be brought to the attention of the Construction Project 

Manager immediately; 

• Project Manager is to identify and initiate appropriate action in response to 

complaint and follow-up contact with complainant; 

• Problems / issues to be reviewed and procedures modified as appropriate; 

• Project Manager is to confirm complaint is closed out in the Complaint 

Register; 

• Complaint Register to be checked daily using the Site Condition Checklist; 

and 

• Summary of complaints to be reported to Country Energy weekly. 

All site staff are responsible for recording any complaints on the Complaints 

Register and the Site Manager is responsible for initiating follow-up action 

and contact with complainant. 

6.5 INCIDENT AND EMERGENCY PLANNING, PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE 

Country Energy will ensure that all environmental incidents are promptly and 

effectively managed to minimise environmental impacts during the Project. 

An Environmental Incident is an event that has the potential to harm the 

environment. Examples of Environmental Incidents include fuel spillage, 

failure of erosion or sediment controls and excessive noise or dust generation. 

All environmental incidents will be handled according to the Country Energy 

procedure CEFD6336 – Incident Management Process. 

Procedures for handling an Environmental Incident include: 

• Stop action(s) causing the incident (e.g. switch off equipment); 


44




• Stop all work in the immediate vicinity of the incident until advised to 

continue work by the Project Manager – inform nearby workers if 

required; 

• Notify Project Manager; 

• If there is a fuel spill – block flow paths or install temporary barriers or 

controls as necessary. Dispose any contaminated spill containment 

materials to appropriately licensed landfill facility; 

• Site Manager is to ensure the incident area is controlled, cleaned up, the 

problem rectified and prevention measures are put in place; 

• Fire extinguishers are to be carried by all machinery used onsite; 

• Site Conditions Checklist to be completed regularly (daily); and 

• Immediate reporting of an incident causing or threatening harm to the 

environment (see Section 7.5). 

All site staff are responsible for their own actions in preventing incidents 

occurring, in containing spills etc. The Project Manager is responsible for 

investigation of incidents, notification and written reports to regulatory 

authorities as required, and declaring an area safe after an incident. 


45




7 EVALUATION OF COMPLIANCE 

7.1 INSPECTIONS, MONITORING AND AUDITING 

7.1.1 Site Inspections 

Weekly inspections of construction work areas will be conducted by the 

Project Environmental Coordinator or their representative and Environmental 

Representative (when on-site) to monitor work practices and identify nonconforming 

areas and activities or work practices which could lead to 

potential environmental harm. It is noted that as the Project is to be 

constructed in stages there are expected periods of minimal to no construction 

activity where the regularity of inspections may need to be revised down 

accordingly. A Site Conditions Checklist will be used to record and report any 

improvements required. 

The purpose of the inspections is to: 

• Provide a surveillance tool to ensure that safeguards are being 

implemented; 

• Identify where problems might be occurring (or have the potential to 

occur); 

• Identify where sound environmental practices are not being implemented; 

and 

• Facilitate the identification and early resolution of problems. 

It is noted that weekly inspections of active construction work sites also 

provide an opportunity for the Site Project Environmental Coordinator to 

address issues raised by construction superintendents/supervisors/project 

engineers etc and assist in the implementation to environmental controls. 

Often this continued support leads to better ownership of environmental 

management and becomes a coaching exercise for field personnel to improve 

their skills in this specialised and complex discipline. 

7.1.2 Environmental Monitoring 

Monitoring and measurement procedures are developed and implemented to 

confirm that all Project construction activities undertaken comply with 

relevant limits and standards, and that Country Energy is performing in 

accordance with stated CEMP requirements. 


46




The timing, frequency, applicable sampling standard, comparison criteria, 

locations and responsibilities for any proposed environmental monitoring 

programs are specified in the respective Environmental Management Subplans. 

The monitoring programs range from those involving formal sample 

collection, analysis and measurement to those involving a more qualitative 

assessment. All environmental monitoring equipment – such as noise meters, 

water quality meters etc – will be calibrated and maintained according to 

manufacturer’s specifications. 

Irrespective of the type of monitoring conducted, the results will be used to 

objectively identify potential or actual problems arising from construction 

processes. Where a non-compliance with nominated performance goals is 

detected: 

• A TotalSafe Notice will be raised by the Project Environmental 

Coordinator; 

• The results will be analysed by the Project Manager and Environmental 

Representative in more detail with the view of determining possible causes 

for the non-conformance; 

• Relevant personnel will be contacted and advised of the problem; 

• A site inspection may be undertaken by the Environmental Representative 

(if determined to be necessary due to the specific circumstances); 

• An agreed action will be identified (including planned completion date); 

• Action will be implemented to rectify the problem; 

• Close out of the TotalSafe Notice. 

Where monitoring methods permit, results will be obtained at the time of the 

assessment and analysed by the Project Environmental Coordinator (or 

relevant consultant). This will allow a prompt response to be initiated should 

an exceedance of accepted goals /criteria be identified. 

7.1.3 Audit Schedule 

Country Energy has developed and maintains an audit schedule to ensure 

continuous improvement and alignment with this CEMP. This schedule 

(available in Appendix G) includes audit type and frequency, the overall 

objective of the audit and a brief description of the audit process to be 

implemented. 


47




The schedule itself will be reviewed annually to ensure its effective use and 

applicability to both the CEMP and Country Energy’s environmental 

objectives. 

7.1.4 Internal Auditing 

Internal audits will be undertaken on a six monthly basis using Country 

Energy procedure CEPG2250 – Health, Safety and Environmental Process and 

System Auditing. The objective of this audit is to determine the 

appropriateness of the Management System (including the CEMP) in 

achieving environmental objectives and performance goals throughout the 

Project development. 

The Project Environmental Coordinator may also identify additional audits to 

be conducted (and nominate appropriate personnel to conduct the audits) in 

response to identified environmental issues, e.g. in response to water quality 

monitoring results. 

The scope for each audit shall be set by the Project Environmental Coordinator 

in consultation with the Environmental Representative, with operational 

personnel notified and a date set for the audit. The outcomes of any field 

construction audit will be documented using Country Energy report template 

CEFD6281 – OHS & E Field Audit Report (Template). 

Audit reports will be used in conjunction with monitoring results reports, to 

evaluate the project environmental performance and to provide a basis for the 

continual improvement of the CEMP. 

7.1.5 External Auditing 

External audits will be conducted by the Environmental Representative, an 

independent third party auditor or relevant Government Bodies. Audits may 

address: 

• Compliance with regulatory requirements; 

• Compliance with the CEMP; 

• Documentation and record keeping; 

• Compliance with approval, permit and licence obligations; and 

• Complaint response. 

A program of annual independent environmental auditing in accordance with 

AS/NZ ISO 19011:2003 - Guidelines for Quality and/or Environmental Management 

Systems Auditing will be undertaken throughout the Project. This will 


48




continue through to the operation phase until such time as compliance with 

relevant approval conditions have been met. County Energy will engage a 

suitably qualified environmental auditor to undertake the annual audits. The 

findings of the audits will be provided to the Director General. 

The outcomes of any audit will be documented and noted (including any nonconformances, 

TotalSafe Notices’s). Non-conformances will be addressed 

immediately following the closing meeting using draft audit findings and 

resolved within two (2) weeks of receiving the final audit report (where 

possible). 

7.2 OPPORTUNITIES FOR IMPROVEMENT, NON-CONFORMANCE, CORRECTIVE AND 

PREVENTATIVE ACTION 

Country Energy uses CEPG2148 – Procedural Guideline: Guideline (Internal) 

Safety: Incident/Situation Reporting and CEM7075.03 – Manual: Incident and 

Hazard Management: Environmental Management Reporting to outline the 

process to be followed to ensure issues, non-conformances and incidents are 

recorded and appropriate actions taken, including reporting to external 

agencies as required. 

Non-conformances, TotalSafe Notices and corrective actions are registered on 

a TotalSafe Register to identify and correct non-conformance and to take 

action to control environmental impacts and prevent future reoccurrence. 

More details about TotalSafe is provided in the Lismore to Mullumbimby 

Electricity Network Upgrade - Compliance Tracking Program report (ERM 2009c). 

Non-conformances may be identified by anyone involved with the site 

construction including the public, construction management personnel, 

employees, visitors, subcontractors and external auditors. 

These procedures document the process of raising and reporting on action 

requests. The underlying cause or the system failure that gave rise to the 

action request is evaluated in order to take action to avoid recurrences. 

7.3 INTERNAL REPORTING 

Country Energy will maintain an appropriate and auditable record system in 

accordance with the Project CEMP and EMS. Environmental reporting shall 

be conducted in accordance with licence conditions. Environmental reporting 

information shall include, but not be limited to: 

• Monthly Project Reports (including environmental performance); 

• Non-conformance reports (TotalSafe Notices); 


49




• Quantitative records of discharges to the environment (i.e. accidental spills) 

that are accurate and can be monitored and audited; 

• Detail on fauna capture and release; 

• Inspection reports; 

• Training and induction attendance; 

• Consultation records and meeting notes; 

• Internal and external audit reports; and 

• Monitoring results. 

7.4 EXTERNAL REPORTING 

All external reporting required by the MCoA or other obligation for the 

Project will be approved by the Project Manager. This includes management 

planning documentation associated with this CEMP. 

7.5 NOTIFICATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL RELATED INCIDENT 

The Project Manager (or delegate/incident response controller) will notify the 

Director General of the NSW Department of Planning within 24 hours, along 

with other appropriate regulatory authorities as required including the 

DECCW (or Pollution Hotline - 131555) should an environmental incident 

occur on or around the site which has occurred in the course of activities in the 

following circumstances: 

• If there has been a non-compliance with approval conditions; 

• If the actual or potential harm to the health or safety of human beings or 

ecosystems is not minor; or 

• If actual or potential loss or property damage (including clean-up costs) 

associated with a pollution incident exceeds $10,000. 

The Country Energy Group Manager – Safety and Environment, Audit & 

Investigation will be notified within four (4) hours of any pollution incidents 

involving notification of the DECCW or any other external Government Body. 

Following the initial report to the relevant agencies, the results of the incident 

investigation will be provided within 14 days to the Director-General (or as 

otherwise agreed by the Director-General) in a detailed report including the 

following details: 


50




• The nature of the incident (including conditions, goals or environmental 

requirements that were breached or had the potential to be breached); 

• The extent of the harm; 

• The cause; 

• Corrective actions undertaken; and 

• Preventive actions to minimise the potential for a recurrence of such an 

incident. 

Country Energy will meet the requirement of the Director-General to address 

the cause or impact of any incident within the required period as defined by 

the Director-General. Country Energy will maintain a register of accidents 

and incidents throughout the Project. 

7.6 DOCUMENT CONTROL AND RECORDS 

7.6.1 General 

Amendments to this plan will be prepared in conjunction with the Country 

Energy Project Environmental Coordinator and approved by the Country 

Energy Project Manager. Redundant copies will be removed and filed for 

future reference. 

7.6.2 Controlled Copy 

The electronic CEMP is the controlled copy and is available on the Country 

Energy information management system. The Country Energy Project 

Environmental Coordinator is responsible for updating and maintaining the 

distribution of this document. 

7.6.3 Uncontrolled Copies 

Any additional copies (hard copy) of the CEMP are uncontrolled copies and 

are not controlled by Country Energy. Uncontrolled copies of the CEMP are 

not subject to automatic amendment and the holder of an uncontrolled copy is 

responsible for verifying its currency against the controlled copy. 

7.6.4 Amendments 

Annual amendments to the EMP (refer Section 8 below) will be prepared by 

the Country Energy Project Environmental Coordinator and approved by the 


51




Country Energy Project Manager. Redundant copies will be removed and 

archived for future reference. 

7.6.5 Records 

Records shall be kept during the implementation and review of this CEMP 

with a copy kept at the Project site or in a suitable location and subsequently 

for five years after the completion of the Project. 

Country Energy procedure CEPG1060 – Records Management will be 

implemented during the implementation of this CEMP. 


52




8 REVIEW AND IMPROVEMENT OF CEMP 

Country Energy will review the CEMP (including associated Sub-plans) and 

its operation and implementation at least every 12 months (annual) in 

consultation with relevant senior managers. The purpose of the review is to 

ensure that the system is meeting the requirements of relevant legislation, 

standards, policies, licences, permits, approvals and objectives. A report will 

be provided to the Project Manager with any recommendations for change to 

the system. The Project Manager will review and approve changes to the 

system (as required). 

The review will consider (but not be limited to) the following: 

• Site personnel comments; 

• State Agency/Administering Authorities comments; 

• Audit findings; 

• Environmental and Community Committee meeting 

recommendations/opportunities for improvement; 

• Environmental monitoring records; 

• Complaints; 

• Details of corrective and preventative actions taken; 

• Environmental non-conformances, environmental inspection notices, 

inspection reports, and non-conformance reports; 

• Incident reports; 

• Changes in organisation structures and responsibilities; 

• The extent of compliance with objectives and targets; 

• The effect of changes in Standards and Legislation; 

• Coordination of environmental management of sub-contractors. 

The Project Environmental Coordinator will implement any changes arising 

from the reviews of the policies and/or the CEMP. Records of such reviews 

will be maintained. 

Details of any significant changes made to the CEMP and associated Sub Plans 

will be summarised in a table and forwarded in a memo to all relevant project 

personnel. 


53




In addition to the annual CEMP review the Project Environmental 

Coordinator will regularly review the CEMP and all related system 

documentation to ensure compliance with project policies and objectives. 

The CEMP will be revised when any of the following occurs (but not limited 

to the following): 

• An inconsistency with environmental requirements is detected through 

monitoring and audits; 

• Identification of improvement opportunities; 

• The CEMP does not adequately reflect the environmental management 

requirements of the MCoA or adequately respond to environmental risks 

and compliance requirements identified within the EMS; 

• A relevant amendment of the design, construction method, or 

implementation method occurs; 

• There are relevant changes to environmental conditions or generally 

accepted environmental management practices; 

• Previous unforeseen environmental risks are identified; 

• Previously unidentified areas of contamination are discovered; 

• There is a change in relevant legislation that impacts on either the design 

outputs or construction activities; 

• There is a request made to Country Energy, by the NSW Department of 

Planning, DECCW or any other relevant Government Bodies; or 

• There is a non-conformance relevant to the CEMP (not of minor nature). 

The CEMP and any subsequent revisions must be approved by the Country 

Energy Project Manager. Initial approval of the CEMP must also be obtained 

from the Director-General (or delegate), NSW Department of Planning in 

accordance with the Minister’s Conditions of Approval. Any significant 

CEMP revisions will require Director-General (or delegate) approval, while a 

copy of the revised CEMP will be submitted where minor changes are made. 


54


Uncontrolled when Printed: Revision C 


9 REFERENCES 

Country Energy, 14 May 2008, Environmental Operations Manual, Manual 

CEM7022. 

Country Energy, 25 July 2008 Procedural Guideline: Safety, Health and 

Environmental Management, Guideline CECG1000. 

Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Natural Resources, 2004, 

Guidelines for the Preparation of Environmental Management Plans. 

Environmental Resources Management Australia Pty Ltd (ERM), 2009a, 

Lismore to Mullumbimby Electricity Network Upgrade Environmental 

Assessment Report. 

Environmental Resources Management Australia Pty Ltd (ERM), 2009b, 

Lismore to Mullumbimby Electricity Network Upgrade Preferred Project 

Report. 

Environmental Resources Management Australia Pty Ltd (ERM), 2009c, 

Mullumbimby Electricity Network Upgrade - Compliance Tracking Program. 


55




Appendix A 


Environmental Policy



Last printed 3 June 2010




Appendix B 

Figures - Regional Project 

Area and Sensitive Area Plans

8505 


!Q 

A 

MULLUMBIMBY 


!Q Brunswick Heads ZS 

B 

DUNOON RD 

Ewingsdale ZS 

!Q 

EWINGSDALE RD 

C 

8508 

BYRON BAY 

BANGALOW 

Suffolk Park ZS (Site 7) 

!Q 

D 

SUFFOLK PARK 

8508 

BANGALOW RD 

PACIFIC HWY 

ELTHAM RD 


8504 

!Q 

E 

LENNOX HEAD 

BRUXNER HWY 

8503 

8502 

ALSTONVILLE 

0897 

Alstonville ZS 

G 

!Q 

8507 

Ballina ZS 

F 

BALLINA !Q 

Legend 





Main Roads 

Highway 


Existing 66kV 

SEPP14 Wetlands 

SEPP26 Littoral Rainforest 

Study Area 



Client: 

Project: 




Date: 

Drawn by: 

30/09/08 

TH 



Source: 

Scale: 



0 0.5 1 2 3 4 5 

[ 

N 

km 

Figure 1 

Existing Transmission Line Corridor 

(Mullumbimby to Ballina) 



Telephone +61 2 8584 8888

NIMBIN RD 

DUNOON RD 

BANGALOW RD 

BANGALOW 

PACIFIC HWY 

Legend 




Main Roads 

Highway 


Existing 66kV 

SEPP14 Wetlands 

SEPP26 Littoral Rainforest 

Study Area 


Water Features 


8508 


ELTHAM RD 


8504 

!Q 

E 

J 

!Q 

0890 & 

0891 

!Q 

I 

8501 

H2 

!Q 

!Q 

H1 

LISMORE 

Lismore Uni ZS 

!Q 

Lismore East ZS 

BRUXNER HWY 

8503 

Figure 2 

Existing Transmission Line Corridor 

(Ballina to Lismore) 

Lismore BSP 


0897 

8502 

ALSTONVILLE 

!Q 

G 


8507 

F 

!Q 

BALLINA 

Ballina ZS 

Client: 

Project: 

Drawing No: 0051706_01 

Date: 

Drawn by: 

Source: 



30/09/08 

TH 


Suffix No: 

A0 



Scale: 

[ 


0 1 2 4 6 8 km 

N 



Telephone +61 2 8584 8888

A 

!Q 


COOLAMON SCENIC DR 

MULLUMBIMBY 

ARGYLE ST 

PIPECLAY CK 

KINGS CK 

THE SADDLE RD 

OCEAN SHORES 


!Q 

B 

Brunswick Heads ZS 

Legend 





Main Roads 

Highway 


Existing 66kV 

SEPP14 Areas 


Project Area 


MCAULEYS L 

OLD PACIFIC HWY 

DUNOON RD 

8505 

PACIFIC HWY 

Figure 3 

Brunswick Heads Feeder Loop 

Corridor 

Client: 

Project: 


Drawing No: 0051706_01 


Suffix No: 

A0 

Date: 

30/09/08 


Drawn by: 

TH 

Reviewed by: MC 

Source: 


C 

!Q 

Ewingsdale ZS 

Scale: 

[ 


0 0.3 0.6 1.2 1.8 2.4 km 

N 



Telephone +61 2 8584 8888

NIMBIN RD 

DUNOON RD 

BANGALOW RD 

ELTHAM RD 

Legend 



Main Roads 

Highway 


Existing 66kV 

LGA Boundaries 

Project Area 



CASINO RD 

Lismore BSP 

J 

!Q 

THREE CHAIN RD 

0890 & 

0891 

Lismore 

Airport 

!Q 

I 


8501 

Mount 

Wilson 

WYRALLAH RD 

H1 

!Q 

!Q 

LISMORE 

Lismore Uni ZS 

H2 


0897 

!Q 

Lismore East ZS 

ROUS RD 

BRUXNER HWY 

MAROM CK 

8502 

ALSTONVILLE 

Figure 4 

New Transmission Line Corridors 

(Lismore to Alstonville) 

Lismore Waste 

Treatment Depot 

WILSONS RIVER 

Lismore Botanic Gardens 

G 

!Q 


Client: 

Project: 

Drawing No: 0051706_01 

Date: 

Drawn by: 



30/09/08 

TH 

Suffix No: 

A0 



Source: 


LISMORE RD 

DALWOOD RD 

Scale: 

[ 


0 0.5 1 2 3 4 km 

N 



Telephone +61 2 8584 8888 

TUCKI TUCKI CK

Legend 

Roadway 

Highway 


SEPP 14 Areas 

Substation Site 

BAYSIDE WY 

Proposed Access Way 

PACIFIC HWY 

BASHFORTHS LANE 

Proposed Substation Site 

B 

Brunswick Heads 

Approximately 1.3 km 

Figure 5 

Brunswick Heads Substation Site 

THE SADDLE RD 

Client: 

Project: 




Date: 

Drawn by: 

Source: 

Scale: 

07/08/08 

TH 





[ 

0 30 60 120 180 240 

N 

m 


BuildingC,33SaundersSt,Pyrmont,NSW2009 

Telephone +61 2 8584 8888

YAGERS L 

8508 

Legend 

Existing 66kV 


Roadway 


Proposed Substation Site (Site 7) 

OLD BANGALOW RD 

D 

Figure 6 

Suffolk Park Substation Site 

BANGALOW RD 

BANGALOW RD 

Client: 

Project: 




Date: 06/08/2008 Drawing size: A4 

Drawn by: 

TH 


Source: 


8508 

COOPERS SHOOT RD 

RED BEAN CL 

Scale: 

[ 


0 37.5 75 150 225 300 

m 

N 



Telephone +61 2 8584 8888

Legend 

Existing 66kV 


Roadway 


YANKEE CREEK RD 

ROBINSONS RD 

Directlink 

Converter 

Station 

ALIDENES RD 

A 

WILSONS CREEK RD 

Figure 7 

Mullumbimby Substation Site 

Mullumbimby Substation 

8505 

CEDAR RD 

MONTECOLLUM RD 

Client: 

Project: 




Date: 

Drawn by: 

30/09/2008 

TH 



Source: 

Scale: 

Department of Lands 2008 


[ 

0 55 110 220 330 440 

m 

N 



Telephone +61 2 8584 8888

PACIFIC HWY 

QUARRY L 

Legend 

Existing 66kV 

Highway 

Roadway 



8505 

MYOCUM RD 

Ewingsdale Substation 

(Under Construction) 

EWINGSDALE RD 

C 

Proposed 

Hospital Site 

Figure 8 

Ewingsdale Substation Site 

MCGETTIGANS L 

WILLIAM FLICK DR 

AVOCADO CR 

8508 

Client: 

Project: 





CITRIADORA DR 

Drawn by: 

TH 


Source: 


PLANTATION DR 

BROOKVIEW CT 

Scale: 

[ 


0 50 100 200 300 400 

m 

N 



Telephone +61 2 8584 8888 

PARKWAY DR

8508 

NEWRYBAR SWAMP RD 

Legend 

Existing 66kV 

Highway 

Roadway 



Lennox Head Substation 

E 

Figure 9 

Lennox Head Substation Site 

8504 

ROSS LANE 

Lennox Head 

Approximately 4.8 km 

Client: 

Project: 





Drawn by: 

TH 


Source: 


DUFFICYS LANE 

Scale: 

[ 


0 55 110 220 330 440 

m 

N 



Telephone +61 2 8584 8888

Legend 

Existing 66kV 

Highway 

Roadway 

SEPP 14 Areas 


Figure 10 

Ballina Substation Site 

A0 

A4 

WW 



0051706_01 Suffix No: 

06/08/2008 Drawing size: 

TH 

Reviewed by: 



0 20 40 80 120 160 

Client: 

Project: 

Drawing No: 

Date: 

Drawn by: 

Source: 

Scale: 

[ 

N 



Telephone +61 2 8584 8888 

LEESON AV 

JAMES ST 

BUCHANAN ST 

CROWLEY AV 

HICKEY ST 

BURNETT ST 

CHRISTINE PL 

SWIFT ST 

FOX ST 

CLAVAN ST 

TEMPLE ST 

VERA ST 

BROADBENT L 

UNNAMED 

CLAVAN CT 

VERA PL 

JAMIE PL 

ELLE PL 

F 

Ballina Substation 

Property newly acquired 

by Country Energy 

m 

CANAL RD 

MARSHALL ST 

8504 

8503 

BAGOT ST 

TAMAR ST 

NORTH CREEK CANAL 

BAGOT PL 

8507 

UNNAMED 

FISHERY CREEK RD 

PACIFIC HWY

Legend 



Existing 66kV 

Roadway 

Lismore Bulk Supply Point Substation 

0892 

J 

THREE CHAIN ROAD 

0897 

CANIABA RD 

0891 

0890 

Figure 11 

Lismore Bulk Supply Point 


Client: 

Project: 




Date: 

Drawn by: 

30/09/2008 

TH 



Source: 

Scale: 

Department of Lands 2008 


[ 

0 90 180 360 540 720 

m 

N 



Telephone +61 2 8584 8888

CROMER ST 

Legend 

Existing 66kV 

Roadway 

Highway 


COOK ST 

WILSON RIVER 

SNOW ST 

Lismore Field 

Service Centre 

0890 

I 

Lismore South Substation 

0891 

Figure 12 

Lismore South Substation Site 

Lismore Airport 

HABIB DR 

KRAUSS AV 

BRUXNER HWY 

8501 

EAST GUNDURIMBA RD 

Client: 

Project: 




Date: 

Drawn by: 

Source: 

Scale: 

06/08/2008 

TH 





[ 

0 30 60 120 180 240 

Meters 

N 



Telephone +61 2 8584 8888




Appendix C 

Schematic Showing Project 

Staging

Upgrade sections to 60MVA 

2009

Cables to South Lismore end 2009 

8514 

8515

Dec 2010 

8514 

8515 

8511 

8510 

8516 

3rd 66kV circuit to Lismore Uni

VT and Surge 

Arrestor change 

required 

66kV to 132kV line insulation upgrade 

OPGW installation 

By Dec 2011 

8512 

8513 

8514 

8515 

8511 

8516 

8510

98505 

98509 

Voltage Change Apr-Jun Jul 2012 2012 

132kV ring in service 

98508 

98504 

8512 

8513 

8514 

8515 

8511 

8516 

8510

98505 98505/1 

98509 

Final network 

2013/14/15 

configuration 

98508 

98504 

8512 

8513 

8514 

8510 

8502 

8053 

8515 

8511 

8516 

0897 

98507




Appendix D 

Risk Assessment





Issue 

Strategic 

Planning 

Potential Impacts Actions/ Proposed Mitigation Measures Residual Environmental Impacts 

Remaining After Application of Mitigation 

Measures 

Electricity upgrades 

where it is not required 

Country Energy has undertaken a study titled Lismore – 

Mullumbimby Sub-transmission Network Development (Country 

Energy, 2005) which investigated the current and future 

requirements on terms of electricity supply on the Far North 

Coast. This document identified a need to upgrade the network in 

the area to meet future demands. 

Land use conflicts • Upgraded line route generally keeping within existing 

corridors; and 

• Undergrounding of the line within Ewingsdale, reducing 

corridor width requirements 

Development not in 

accordance with State, 

Regional and Local 

planning policies 

As part of the background planning of the Project the direction of 

the region in terms of growth areas identified in strategic planning 

documents was considered. 

EAR 

Reference 

Nil. Section 4.4 

Minimal as most of the Project involves 

upgrading existing infrastructure. 

Section 4.6 

Nil. Section 4.3 


Removal of habitat or 

direct disturbance during 

construction activities 

• Conduct pre-clearance fauna surveys in areas where potential 

fauna habitat is identified and where removal is required; and 

• Stage works to avoid disturbance to threatened fauna that 

may potentially inhabit the area during their breeding season 

(e.g. Koala). 

• utilization of compensatory plantings for vegetation removed 

during new cleared easement and substation construction 

works; and 

• development of a site specific construction environmental 

management plan for upgrade works within the Skinners 

Shoot Road reserve such that impacts upon the SEPP 14 

wetland are avoided. 

Minimal as vegetation removal proposed is 

minor. 

Section 6.3 

Impacts to aquatic 

habitats downstream 

• Implement erosion and sediment control measures during 

any clearing in accordance with Country Energy’s CEM 7022 

Environmental Operations Manual; 

Nil – mitigation measures will prevent 

impacts from erosion and sedimentation and 

potential chemical or petrochemical 

pollution. 

Section 6.4 

& Section 

13.2.4 


D1





Issue 



Measures 

• All oils, fuels, lubricants and chemicals associated with plant 

operation in the easement should not be stored for extended 

periods; 

• All refuelling and hardstanding areas, if required, should also 

be bunded to reduce water contamination from runoff; and 

• Where possible, all machinery should avoid streambed areas 

at all times, ensuring natural buffer areas are present to 

waterways. 

EAR 

Reference 

Impacts to the 

surrounding environment 

• Responsible management of weeds in accordance with 

Country Energy’s CEM 7022 Environmental Operations 

Manual, CEM7022.06: Waste and the requirements of the 

Noxious Weeds Act 1993; 

• Minimise disturbance / removal of existing native vegetation 

and potential fauna habitat where possible; 

• Construct protection barriers around areas of vegetation near 

the existing route to prevent potential damage; and 

• Obtain professional advice from an Arborist in areas where 

there is potential for root damage to native trees. 

Minimal as vegetation removal proposed is 

minor. 

Sections 6.3 

and 6.4 

Heritage: 

Aboriginal 

Disturbance or 

destruction of heritage or 

cultural resources 

• A Cultural Heritage Induction of the construction crew 

supervisors should take place prior to construction. This is to 

explain the nature of the monitoring and the requirements for 

when an archaeologist is to be notified. Handouts showing 

Aboriginal sites will be circulated and the procedure to follow 

in the case of Aboriginal burials being uncovered explained. 

The induction can be carried out by an archaeologist. In 

addition, a Site Contractors Heritage Handbook can be 

provided if required. This summarises all the key heritage 

issues and recommendations, provides contact details of 

archaeologists and LALCs, provides maps indicating areas 

that require monitoring and has information sheets showing 

archaeological sites sand areas to be fenced off and avoided. 

Moderate – The Project has the potential to 

involve relocation of items at the Brunswick 

Heads Substation site. Also, the Suffolk 

Park Substation is proposed in areas where 

burials are possible and may be disturbed as 

a result of the Project. 

Chapter 7 


D2





Issue 



Measures 

EAR 

Reference 

• If ground disturbance or vegetation removal is proposed 

outside existing power line corridors in any sensitive areas 

identified in Section 6.1.2 and illustrated in on Figures 6.1 to 

6.3 of the Aboriginal Heritage Assessment (Appendix I), 

archaeological surveys and further assessment should be 

completed. 

• Any works that result in the disturbance of the ground surface, 

such as excavation for new transmission line poles, removal 

of vegetation or trenching, should be monitored by LALC 

representatives and other interested parties between the 

Lismore BSP substation south to the existing Alstonville 

power line. 

• A Burial Management Plan and monitoring of all clearance 

and earth works is to occur at the proposed Suffolk Park 

substation site (Site 7) due to the sensitive nature of the area. 

Monitoring by LALC representatives and other interested 

parties should also be carried out when clearing or excavation 

works are being undertaken for transmission line connection 

of the new substation to the existing network. 

• Further archaeological investigation is recommended at the 

Brunswick Heads Substation site prior to the construction 

commencing. As this is a Part 3A Project a S87 permit will 

not be required, but the investigation should be undertaken to 

the usual standards for a S87 permit. The investigation 

should be conducted in the manner discussed in Section 7.5.2 

of the Aboriginal Heritage Assessment (Appendix I). 

Heritage: Non- 

Aboriginal 

Disturbance or 

destruction of heritage or 

cultural resources 

• Preparation of an archival recording in accordance with NSW 

Heritage Branch guidelines of the Mullumbimby Power 

Station building and its associated machinery and equipment 

will be undertaken. Copies of the archival recording will be 

lodged with the Brunswick Valley Historical Society, State 

Library of NSW and the NSW Heritage Branch. 

Minimal – the Mullumbimby Power Station 

will not be impacted, however its context 

may be changed slightly as a result of works 

in the vicinity for new substations. 

Chapter 8 


D3





Issue 

Noise Impacts 



Measures 

Potential noise impacts 

of new and upgraded 

substations 

Ballina Substation: 

• The final noise mitigation options included in the detailed 

design phase will be modelled by a suitably qualified 

acoustical consultant to confirm the substation once 

operational is predicted to meet relevant DECC noise criteria. 

• Post construction noise monitoring will be undertaken by a 

suitably qualified acoustic consultant confirming noise levels 

actually generated by the upgraded substation. The 

consultants report will recommend any necessary additional 

amelioration measures to be carried out. 

• Once commissioned a noise compliance monitoring report 

will be prepared by a suitably qualified acoustic consultant 

confirming noise levels generated by the upgraded 

substation comply with DECC’s Industrial Noise Policy 

(2000). 

Minimal – all substations will meet the 

criteria specified in the DECC’s Industrial 

Noise Policy (2000). 

EAR 

Reference 

Chapter 9 

Noise impacts resulting 

from operation of 

transmission lines 

(including maintenance 

activities) 

• All work will be restricted to the hours of 7:00am and 6:00pm 

Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 1:00pm Saturdays and at no 

time on Sundays or Public Holidays except: 

• Any works which do not cause emissions to be audible at any 

nearby residential property; 

• the delivery of materials which is required outside these 

hours as requested by police or other authorities for 

safety reasons; 

• emergency work to avoid the loss of lives, property 

and/or to prevent environmental harm; and 

• any other work as agreed through negotiations between 

Country Energy and potentially affected noise receivers. 

• All work to be completed in as short a timeframe as possible. 

• Residents potentially affected by noise are to be informed in 

advance that work is to take place and is likely to generate 

some noise, with residents being kept informed of progress at 

regular intervals. 

Minor – Transmission lines, once operational 

produce very little noise. Any maintenance 

activities that are likely to be noisy will be 

short-term and consultation with affected 

landholders will be undertaken. 

Chapter 9 


D4





Issue 

Visual Amenity 



Measures 

Potential impacts to the 

visual catchment 

• Transmission line upgrade works to generally be kept to the 

existing disturbed corridor. 

• New transmission line corridors have been selected with a 

view to reducing existing visual impacts and minimising any 

new visual impacts. 

• Mitigation measures such as use of green coloured 

transmission poles and undergrounding of transmission line 

to be used in some visually sensitive areas. 

• Landscaping options are to be considered (i.e. detailed 

Landscape Plan) to reduce the visual impact from the 

proposed upgrade of the Ballina zone substation. 

• New communications towers to be installed at Mullumbimby 

zone substation and Lismore BSP will be installed within the 

existing substation boundaries at these remotely located 

sites. A green pole will be used at Mullumbimby to blend in 

with the vegetation backdrop. 

Minimal – minor variations to poles will occur 

in the Project Area but no significant visual 

impacts will result. Substation upgrades will 

generally not involve significant additional 

visual impacts. Landscaping will be 

undertaken to visually screen the proposed 

upgrade works at Ballina zone substation, 

which is expected to improve the visual 

amenity in this area. The proposed 

communication towers to be installed at 

Mullumbimby zone substation and Lismore 

BSP will not add significantly to the visual 

landscape at these sites that is already 

dominated by existing electrical 

infrastructure. 

EAR 

Reference 

Chapter 10 


Impacts 

Noise impacts during 

construction 

• Residents potentially affected by construction noise to be 

informed in advance that work to take place and is likely to 

generate some noise, with residents being kept informed of 

progress at regular intervals; 

• All construction activities will be restricted to the hours of 

7:00am and 6:00pm Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 1:00pm 

Saturdays and at no time on Sundays or Public Holidays 

except: 

• any works which do not cause emissions to be audible at 

any nearby residential property; 

• the delivery of materials which is required outside these 

hours as requested by police or other authorities for 

safety reasons; 

• emergency work to avoid the loss of lives, property 

and/or to prevent environmental harm; and 

• any other work as agreed through negotiations between 

Country Energy and potentially affected noise receivers. 

Moderate – Possible exceedences of 

DECC’s construction noise criteria are 

possible however these will be short-term 

and consultation with potentially affected 

landholders will be undertaken. 

Chapter 9 


D5





Issue 



Measures 

EAR 

Reference 

• Construction in close proximity to residences be completed in 

as short a time frame as possible; 

• Where practical, pushing topsoil or fill to form earth mounds 

between the construction site and residences; 

• Where possible barriers should be placed nearest to plant 

equipment to maximise barrier attenuation; 

• Maximise the offset distance between noisy plant items and 

nearby noise sensitive receivers; 

• Avoiding any coincidence of noisy plant working together in 

close proximity simultaneously adjacent to sensitive receivers; 

• Minimising the occurrence of consecutive or ongoing out of 

hours works in the same locality; 

• Orienting noisy plant or equipment away from sensitive areas; 

• Carrying out loading and unloading away from noise sensitive 

areas, if loading near sensitive receiver’s acoustic enclosures 

or barriers of a suitable height is constructed to minimise the 

noise impacts; 

• Should blasting be required, specific assessment should be 

undertaken regarding impacts to any nearby residences 

• Monitor construction noise levels throughout the varying 

stages of the project to quantify potential impact at most 

sensitive residences; and 

• The contractor must take reasonable steps to manage and 

control noise from all plant and equipment. Examples of 

appropriate noise management and control may include 

installation of acoustic silencers, low noise mufflers and 

alternatives to reversing alarms. 


D6





Issue 



Measures 

EAR 

Reference 

Traffic Impacts • Minimal clearance heights above road surface to be adhered 

to in all line upgrade and construction; 

• Utilise construction techniques that allow for the erection and 

ongoing maintenance of the lines to be carried out with 

minimal disruption to traffic; 

• A Traffic Management Plan is to be prepared in the event of 

unavoidable traffic impacts, including any relevant 

requirements in the RTA’s Traffic Control at Worksites (2008); 

• Any impacts to traffic will be scheduled for less busy periods 

to minimise delays; 

• Consultation to occur with landholders regarding preferred 

access routes for works to be undertaken on private property; 

and 

• Before construction activities commence, Council and RTA to 

be notified of heavy vehicle movements to sites and details of 

traffic control measures. 

Water Quality Impacts • Disturbance of soils to be kept to minimum; 

• Sediment fencing to be constructed around stockpiled soil; 

• Exposed areas susceptible to dust generation are to be 

revegetated with fast growing grasses or sealed; 

• Dust generating activities will be limited during unfavourable 

conditions and dust suppression measures (i.e. water cart) will 

be used as required; 

• All trucks containing soil/gravel material are to be kept damp 

and covered during transportation; 



waterways; 

• All works will be carried out in accordance with Country 

Energy’s CEM7022 Environmental Operations Manual: 

Handbook; 

Minimal – Most work will be undertaken 

within the existing transmission line corridor 

and substation compounds. Impacts to 

traffic should only occur during the delivery 

of equipment. Significant additional 

amounts of traffic will not be generated as a 

result of the Project. 


impacts from erosion and sedimentation and 

potential chemical or petrochemical 

pollution. 

Section 

13.2.1 

Section 

13.2.4 


D7





Issue 



Measures 

EAR 

Reference 

• All oils, fuels, lubricants and chemicals associated with plant 

operation in the easement should not be stored for 

extended periods; and 

• All refuelling hardstand areas, if required, should also be 

bunded to reduce the potential for water contamination from 

site runoff. 

Disturbance of Soils 

leading to Erosion and 

Sedimentation 

• Disturbance of soils to be kept to minimum; 

• Sediment fencing to be constructed around stockpiled soil; 

• Exposed areas susceptible to dust generation are to be 

revegetated with fast growing grasses or sealed; 



be used as required; 

• All trucks containing soil/gravel material are to be kept damp 




waterways; and 

• All works will be carried out in accordance with Country 

Energy’s CEM7022 Environmental Operations Manual: 

Handbook. 


impacts from erosion and sedimentation. 

Section 

13.2.4 

Air Quality Impacts • All trucks containing soil/gravel material are to be kept damp 




be used where deemed necessary; 

• All equipment will be maintained and operated in accordance 

with manufacturer specifications; and 

• Areas susceptible to dust generation are to be revegetated or 

sealed. 

Minimal – mitigation measures will prevent 

impacts from dust generation. 

Section 

13.2.2 


D8





Issue 



Measures 

EAR 

Reference 

Human Health 

Impacts 

Impacts to health as a 

result of EMF exposure. 

• Adopt a ‘prudent avoidance’ and design certification approach 

(where required). In the case that sensitive receivers are 

located within 30 of a substation site, 20m of an overhead 

powerline or 8 metres of an underground powerline as 

prescribed in the EMF Management Protocol (Annex K) the 

final designs will be certified by an appropriately qualified 

independent EMF expert. 

• The management of all general and construction waste will be 

undertaken in accordance with Country Energy CEM7022 

Environmental Operations Manual: Handbook. 

• All wastes will be classified, stored and disposed in 

accordance with the NSW DECC (2008) Waste Classification 

Guidelines. 

• Opportunities for waste reduction and the beneficial reuse of 

materials will be identified in accordance with Country 

Energy’s obligations with regard to the Waste Avoidance and 

Resource Recovery Act 2001; 

• Where possible grass and topsoil will be set aside and 

reused to establish groundcover to reduce the potential for 

erosion; 

• Vegetation removal would be undertaken in accordance with 

Country Energy’s CEM7022 Environmental Operations 

Manual: Handbook. Where possible removed vegetation will 

be mulched and reuse for site stabilisation and/or landscaping 

purposes; 

• Concrete and timber (i.e. pole butts) will be assessed in 

accordance with the above guidelines and where suitable for 

reuse returned to the excavation in accordance with industry 

practice and CEM7022 Environmental Operations Manual: 

Handbook. 

• Materials deemed unsuitable for in-situ reuse would be 

appropriately stored, disposed or recycled off-site; 

• If contaminated materials are encountered during construction 

Nil Chapter 11 

Waste 

Production and 


Environmental impacts 

as a result of 

inappropriate handling of 

waste. 

Minimal – the proposed mitigation measures 

will ensure that impacts to the environment 

from wastes are avoided. 

Chapter 14 


D9





Issue 



Measures 

(i.e. potential PCB containing transformers) work will stop until 

such time as the material can be classified and/or appropriate 

waste management measures put in place; 

• No on-site maintenance of construction equipment unless 

disposal of any wastes generated is undertaken; 

• Any construction staff amenities at substation sites would be 

serviced by a licensed liquid waste contractor as required; 

• Skip bins or other containers will be used on-site for the 

collection of general waste. An appropriately licensed waste 

contractor will collect such general waste; 

• Any asbestos waste will be managed in accordance with 

Country Energy’s policy and procedural guidelines which meet 

the relevant regulatory requirements; 

• In the event of any oil waste occurring on-site, this would be 

collected and transported to the nearest oil recycling facility; 

and 

• If contaminated materials are encountered during construction 

(i.e. potential PCB containing transformers) work will stop until 

such time as the material can be classified and appropriate 

waste management measures put in place. 

EAR 

Reference 


D10





Issue 

Contaminated 

Land 



Measures 

Contamination of land as 

a result of the Project. 

• Country Energy will consider site specific options for disposal 

and soil remediation in relation to power poles; 

• Any proposed excavation works within the existing and new 

transmission line corridors will be assessed during 

construction using the using the DPI register and available 

mapping, and through direct consultation with relevant 

landholders. If it is considered possible that a dip site could 

potentially be impacted by the development, an alternative 

route deviation will be considered; and 

• Asbestos materials will be appropriated managed in 

accordance with Country Energy’s policy and procedural 

guidelines which meet the requirements of the relevant 

regulatory authorities. 

Minimal – the proposed mitigation measures 

will ensure that contamination impacts are 

avoided. 

EAR 

Reference 

Chapter 12 


D11




Appendix E 

Minister's Conditions of 

Approval




Appendix F 

Statement of Commitments




Item 

Number 

Item Commitment Responsibility Timing 

1 Scope of 

Development 

2 Community 

Consultation 

3 Environmental 


Plan - 


Overall Project Commitments 

The development will be carried out generally in accordance with Environmental 

Assessment Report (EAR), prepared by ERM, September 2008 and supporting reports, 

except where amended by other items of this Statement of Commitments. 

• Prior to the commencement of construction, Country Energy must institute, 

publicise and list with a telephone company a 24 hour toll free complaints contact 

telephone number, which would enable any member of the general public to reach 

a person who can arrange an appropriate response action to the complaint. 

• All directly affected landowners and occupiers must be consulted regarding the 

Project. Consultation must address, but not be limited to, final pole locations, 

construction activities and mitigation measures that may affect workings of 

properties and timing of such activities to minimise disruption; proposed site 

accesses; landscaping measures; and the nature and timing of maintenance 

activities. 

All reasonable and feasible requests from directly affected landowners must be taken 

into consideration and records of consultation must be maintained, and these records 

must be made available to the Director-General on request. 

• Prior to the commencement of construction a Construction Environmental 

Management Plan (CEMP) will be prepared. 

• The CEMP document must, but is not limited to: 

• Address construction activities associated with all key construction sites, 

including staging and timing of the proposed works. 

• Describe management measures to be implemented in respect of key 

environmental elements. 

• Cover specific environmental management objectives and strategies for 

environmental system elements including, but not limited to: water quality; 

noise and vibration; air quality; erosion and sedimentation; access roads; 

construction access and traffic; heritage and archaeology; acid sulphate 

soils; contamination; waste management; flora and fauna; weed control; 

rehabilitation; refuelling and fuel storage areas; energy use, resource use 

and recycling; and utilities. 

• address, but not be limited to: 

o Identification of the statutory and other obligations which Country 

Energy is required to fulfil during project construction, including all 

approvals and consultations/agreements required from other 

authorities and stakeholders, and key legislation and policies which 

control Country Energy’s construction of the project. 




For the duration of the 

Project. 

Prior to commencement 

of construction & 

ongoing during the 

construction phase of 

the Project. 


of construction. 


F1




Item 

Number 


o 

o 

o 

o 

o 

o 

o 

o 

o 

Definition of the role, responsibility, authority, accountability and 

reporting of personnel relevant to compliance with the EMP. 

Measures to avoid and/or control the occurrence of environmental 

impacts. 

Measures (where practicable and cost-effective) to provide positive 

environmental offsets to unavoidable environmental impacts. 

Strategies (where reasonable and feasible) for reducing exposure of 

residences or sensitive receivers to electric and magnetic fields. 

Environmental management procedures for all construction 

processes which are important for the quality of the environment in 

respect of permanent and/or temporary works. 

Environmental management instructions for all complex 

environmental control processes which do not follow common 

practice or where the absence of such instructions could be 

potentially detrimental to the environment. 

Monitoring, inspection and test plans for all activities and 

environmental qualities which are important to the environmental 

management of the project. 

Consultation requirements with relevant government agencies. 

Community consultation and notification strategy (including local 

community, Local Aboriginal Land Councils, relevant government 

agencies, and Council), and complaint handling procedures. 

The CEMP will incorporate the management measures identified elsewhere within 

this Statement of Commitments. 

4 Ecology • No additional vegetation removal or land disturbance is to be undertaken within the 

SEPP 14 wetland areas, including the existing transmission line corridor and the 

road corridor at Skinner Shoot. 

• Disturbance/removal of existing native vegetation and potential fauna habitat will be 

minimised where possible. 

• Pre-clearance fauna surveys will be undertaken in areas where potential fauna 

habitat is identified and where removal is required. 

• A detailed ecological assessment of the proposed new 66kV line 8516 between 

Lismore South and Lismore Switching Station will be undertaken including 

assessment under SEPP 44. 

Prior to construction commencing a Construction Environmental Management Plan 

(CEMP) will be prepared which will include the following: 






the Project. 


F2




Item 

Number 

5 Aboriginal 

Heritage 


• Erosion and sediment control measures in accordance with Country Energy’s CEM 

7022 Environmental Operations Manual will be put in place whilst tree clearing is 

being undertaken. 

• The spread of weeds will be prevented in accordance with Country Energy’s CEM 

7022 Environmental Operations Manual, CEM7022.07: Land Use and Animal 

Diseases and the requirements of the Noxious Weeds Act 1993. 

• Protection barriers will be constructed around areas of vegetation near the existing 

route to prevent potential damage. 

• Professional advice from an Arborist will be sought in instances where there is 

potential for root damage to native trees. 

• Works will be staged to avoid disturbance to threatened fauna that may potentially 

inhabit the area during their breeding season (e.g. Koala). 

• If ground disturbance or vegetation removal is proposed outside existing power line 

corridors in any sensitive areas identified in Section 6.1.2 and illustrated in on 

Figures 6.1 to 6.3 of the Aboriginal Heritage Assessment (Appendix I), 

archaeological surveys and further assessment should be completed. 

• Any works that result in the disturbance of the ground surface, such as excavation 

for new transmission line poles, removal of vegetation or trenching, should be 

monitored by LALC representatives and other interested parties between the 

Lismore BSP substation south to the existing Alstonville zone substation. 

• In the unlikely event of sub-surface construction disturbing archaeological relics 

(any deposit, object or material evidence which relates to the settlement of the area 

that comprises NSW, not being Aboriginal settlement which is 50 or more years 

old) all work likely to affect the site(s) will cease immediately and, in accordance 

with section 146(a) of the Heritage Act (NSW) 1977, the Applicant will ensure the 

Heritage Council of NSW is notified within a reasonable time of the discovery or 

location of any relics. Written notification should be forwarded unless the Applicant 

believes on reasonable grounds that the Heritage Council of NSW is aware of the 

location of the relic. 






the Project. 


F3




Item 

Number 


Prior to construction commencing a Construction Environmental Management Plan 


• Cultural Heritage Induction to be carried out for site supervisors prior to 

construction which explains procedures to be followed in the event that 

Aboriginal archaeological sites are uncovered. A Site Contractors Heritage 

Handbook summarising key heritage issues and recommendations and 

providing contact details for archaeologists and LALC’s may be issued during 

the Cultural Heritage Induction. 

6 Noise Prior to construction commencing a Construction Environmental Management Plan 


• Residents in the vicinity of noisy construction works are to be informed that work is 

to take place and is likely to generate some noise. 

• All construction activities will be restricted to the hours of 7:00am and 6:00pm 

Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 1:00pm Saturdays and at no time on Sundays or 

Public Holidays except: 

• any works which do not cause emissions to be audible at any nearby 

residential property; 

• the delivery of materials which is required outside these hours as requested 

by police or other authorities for safety reasons; 

• emergency work to avoid the loss of lives, property and/or to prevent 

environmental harm; and 

• any other work as agreed through negotiations between Country Energy and 

potentially affected noise receivers. 

• Construction in close proximity to residences be completed in as short a time frame 

as possible; 

• Where practical, pushing topsoil or fill to form earth mounds between the 

construction site and residences; 

• Where possible barriers should be placed nearest to plant equipment to maximise 

barrier attenuation; 

• Maximise the offset distance between noisy plant items and nearby noise sensitive 

receivers; 

• Avoiding any coincidence of noisy plant working together in close proximity 

simultaneously adjacent to sensitive receivers; 

• Minimising the occurrence of consecutive or ongoing out of hours works in the 






the Project. 


F4




Item 

Number 


same locality; 

• Orienting noisy plant or equipment away from sensitive areas; 

• Carrying out loading and unloading away from noise sensitive areas, if loading near 

sensitive receiver’s acoustic enclosures or barriers of a suitable height is 

constructed to minimise the noise impacts; 

• Should blasting be required, specific assessment should be undertaken regarding 

impacts to any nearby residences 

• Compliance attended noise monitoring of construction noise levels throughout 

specific relevant stages of the project (i.e. substation construction) to quantify 

potential impact at the most sensitive residences; and 

• The contractor must take reasonable steps to manage and control noise from all 

plant and equipment. Examples of appropriate noise management and control may 

include installation of acoustic silencers, low noise mufflers and alternatives to 

reversing alarms. 

7 Visual Amenity • Green transmission poles and communication tower poles will be installed in 

visually sensitive areas where a vegetation backdrop is present. 

8 Electric and 

Magnetic Fields 

(EMF) 

• The visual impacts of the new substation at Brunswick Heads will be fully assessed 

and mitigation measures, as deemed necessary, will be included in the final 

designs. 

• A detailed Landscape Plan will be developed for the Ballina zone substation upon 

finalisation of the substation upgrade design. 

• The Project will be undertaken in accordance with the Energy Networks Association 

Policy Statement on Electric and Magnetic Fields (EMFs) (2006) which is adopted 

by Country Energy. 

9 Waste Prior to construction commencing a Construction Environmental Management Plan 


• The management of all general and construction waste will be undertaken in 

accordance with Country Energy CEM 7022 Environmental Operations Manual. 

• All wastes will be classified, stored and disposed in accordance with the NSW 

DECC (2008) Waste Classification Guidelines. 












the Project. 


F5




Item 

Number 


• Opportunities for waste reduction and the beneficial reuse of materials will be 

identified in accordance with Country Energy’s obligations with regard to the Waste 

Avoidance and Resource Recovery Act 2001. This will also include the appropriate 

segregation of materials for recycling to divert such material from the general waste 

stream. 

• Where possible, grass and topsoil will be set aside and reused to establish 

groundcover to reduce the potential for erosion. 

• Vegetation removal will be undertaken in accordance with Country Energy’s CEM 

7022 Environmental Operations Manual. Where possible removed vegetation will 

be mulched and reuse for site stabilisation and/or landscaping purposes. 

• Materials deemed unsuitable for in-situ reuse will be appropriately stored, disposed 

or recycled off-site. 

• If contaminated materials are encountered during construction work will stop until 

such time as the material can be classified and/or appropriate waste management 

measures put in place. 

• No on-site maintenance of construction equipment will be done unless disposal of 

any wastes generated is undertaken. 

• Staff amenities will be serviced by a licensed liquid waste contractor as required. 

• At substations, skip bins or other containers will be used on-site for the collection of 

general waste. An appropriately licensed waste contractor will collect the waste. 

• In the event of any oil waste occurring on-site, this will be collected and transported 

to the nearest oil recycling facility. 

Prior to commencement of construction of the Suffolk Park zone substation an on-site 

waste water treatment system will be designed and implemented in accordance with 

AS 1547-2000 and any requirements of Byron Shire Council. 


F6




Item Item Commitment Responsibility Timing 

Number 

10 Climate Change Prior to construction commencing a Construction Environmental Management Plan Country Energy Prior to commencement 


of construction and 

• Vehicles and machinery will be maintained in accordance with manufacturer’s 

requirements and regularly serviced to ensure optimal performance. 

during the construction 

phase of the Project. 

• All machinery noted to be producing excessive emissions will be stood down for 

maintenance. 

Where practical, vehicles and machinery not in use will be turned off. 

11 Traffic 


12 Brunswick Heads 

Substation 

13 Mullumbimby 

Power Station 

• Prior to construction commencing a Construction Environmental Management Plan 

(CEMP) will be prepared which will identify all accesses required to undertake the 

Project and the key safety and traffic control and mitigation measures that will be 

applied to minimise disruption and ensure that public safety and adequate access 

are maintained. 

Country Energy will be responsible for minimising any disruption to services resulting 

from the Project and will be responsible for advising local residents and businesses on 

disruption to services. 

Site Specific Commitments 

Further archaeological investigation will be undertaken at the Brunswick Heads 

Substation site prior to construction commencing. While a Section 87 permit is not 

required for a Part 3A Project, the investigation will be undertaken to the usual 

standards required for a Section 87 permit. All clearing and earthworks will be 

monitored by LALC representatives at this site. 

• Upgrade works will not directly impact on the heritage listed power station. 

• Preparation of an archival recording in accordance with NSW Heritage Branch 

guidelines of the power station building and its associated machinery and 

equipment will be undertaken. Copies of the archival recording will be lodged with 

the Brunswick Valley Historical Society, State Library of NSW and the NSW 

Heritage Branch. 

A green coloured pole will be used for new transmission poles and the proposed 

communications tower to minimise the visual impact against the vegetated backdrop. 






the Project. 

Country Energy Prior to construction 

commencing. 

Country Energy Ongoing during the 


the Project. 


F7




Item Item Commitment Responsibility Timing 

Number 

14 Suffolk Park 

Substation 

• An Aboriginal heritage Burial Management Plan will be prepared and implemented 

prior to the commencement of works at the Suffolk Park Substation site and all 

clearing and earth works will be monitored by LALC representatives at this site; 

Country Energy Prior to commencement 


• Country Energy will undertake further road design investigations to produce plans 

for the upgrade of Skinners Shoot Road and Yagers Lane. The upgrade will be of 

the nature described in the following paragraph. Plans will be provided to Byron 

Shire Council for their review and, in accordance with Section 45 of the Electricity 

Supply Act 1995, Council will be given 40 days to provide a written submission to 

Country Energy regarding the proposed works. 

A section of Skinners Shoot Road, between the intersection of Wentworth Street 

and Skinners Shoot Road and the Yagers Lane/Skinners Shoot Road intersection 

will be regraded and resealed. Yagers Lane will be upgraded from the intersection 

with Skinners Shoot Road to the Suffolk Park substation access driveway. The 

sealed pavement on both roads will be widened from the current 3m width to 4m. 

Once construction of the substation is complete, Country Energy will repair any 

damage to the road surface caused by construction traffic. 

15 Ballina 

Substation 

16 Lismore 

Substation 

• The final noise mitigation options included in the detailed design phase will be 

modelled by a suitably qualified acoustical consultant to confirm the substation 

once operational is predicted to meet relevant DECC noise criteria. 

• Post construction noise monitoring will be undertaken by a suitably qualified 

acoustic consultant confirming noise levels actually generated by the upgraded 

substation. The consultants report will recommend any necessary additional 

amelioration measures to be carried out. 

• Once commissioned a noise compliance monitoring report will be prepared by a 

suitably qualified acoustic consultant confirming noise levels generated by the 

upgraded substation comply with DECC’s Industrial Noise Policy (2000). 

If the Lismore Power Station is to be demolished: 

• A Moveable Heritage Management Plan will be prepared outlining the 

conservation and relocation of the buildings associated equipment, tools, 

control panels and signage; and 

• Appropriate interpretation signage outlining the heritage significance of the site 

will be erected outside the station where it can be viewed by the public. 






of demolition and any 

construction works. 


F8


Uncontrolled when Printed: Revision C 


Appendix G 

Audit Schedule




Audit Type Location Frequency Audit objectives Audit process Responsibility 

CEMP Audit 

Main Construction 

Site Office 

Bi-Annual 

Annual 

• Monitor compliance and alignment 

with MCoA, legislation, objectives, 

targets and KPIs within the CEMP 

• Monitor compliance with Country 

Energy certification requirements 

and progress with any action plans 

• Gauge effectiveness and adequacy 

of the CEMP system 

• Monitor and evaluate effectiveness 

of risk mitigation measures 

• Identify areas of improvement and 

opportunities to address 

Document review and site walkover 

including: 

• Site inspection 

• Visual assessment 

• Interviews with contractor 

• Incident reports and investigations 

• Risk assessments (see below) 

• CMSs 

• Environmental Sub-plans 

• Objectives and Targets 

Relevant Country 

Energy Corporate 

personnel - Safety 

and Environment 

Audit and 

Investigation 

Coordinator 

Project 


Coordinator 

Environmental Risk 

Assessments 


Site Office 

Annually 

• Identify changes in and address 

risks associated with construction 

activities. 



• Review of documents including 

CEMP, Incident reports and action 

requests 

• Site based audits (see below) 

Project 


Coordinator 

Country Energy input 

my be required for 

some specific 

information 

Site Based Audits 

Disparate substation/ 

transmission line 

construction sites 

Bi-annually for 

each site 

• Assess implementation of the CEMP 

• Assess compliance with MCoA 

• Assess subcontractor management 

and compliance with Country 

Energy procedures 

• Assess non-conformance reporting 

and action request sign-off 

• Assess incident reporting and 

investigation 






• Document review of sample 

procedures and records 

• Incident reports and action requests 

• Interviews with construction 

management team 

Project 


Coordinator 


Representative (if 

requested) 


G1




Subcontractor Audits 

Various sites 

(site selection will be 

dependent on risk 

assessments and level 

of site activity) 

Monthly 

Monitoring of subcontractor 

performance in managing their 

environmental impact and compliance 

with the CEMP 




• Review of previous inspections 

• Licensing 

• Document review – insurances, 

CEMPs, induction sign off 

• Contract (if required) 

Project 


Coordinator 

Program of independent environmental 

auditing in accordance with AS/NZ 

ISO 19011:2003 – Guidelines for Quality 

and/or Environmental management 

Systems Auditing: 

Independent Audits 


Site Office and 

Various sites 

(as deemed necessary 

by auditor) 

Annual 

CEMP – Monitor compliance and 

alignment with MCoA, legislation, 

objectives, targets and KPIs within the 

CEMP 

• Monitor compliance with Country 

Energy certification requirements 

and progress with any action plans 

• Gauge effectiveness and adequacy 

of the CEMP system 



• Identify areas of improvement and 

opportunities to address 

Site Based – 

• Assess implementation of the CEMP 

• Assess compliance with MCoA 

• Assess subcontractor management 

and compliance with Country 

Energy procedures 

• Assess non-conformance reporting 

and action request sign-off 

• Assess incident reporting and 

investigation 

Document review and site walkover 

including: 




• Incident reports and investigations 

• Risk assessments (see below) 

• CMSs 

• Environmental Sub-Plans 

• Objectives and Targets 

• Review of previous inspections 

• Licensing 

• Document review – insurances, 

CEMPs, induction sign off 

• Contract (if required) 

Project 


Coordinator 

Independent 


Auditor 


G2







G3




Appendix H 

Environmental Management 

Sub-plans

Construction Environmental Management Plan - Essential Energy

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