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Hinze Dam Stage 3 COMMUNITY ADVISORY COMMITTEE Briefing Kit #3

Hinze Dam Stage 3

COMMUNITY ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Briefing Kit #3

Hinze Dam Stage 3

Contents

1.0 Purpose 1

2.0 Project Update 1

2.1 Where to From Here 1

2.2 Ongoing Technical Assessments 1

2.3 Map 3

Appendix A

Appendix B

Appendix C

Recreation Issues Paper & Current Recreation Use Map

Environment Protection and Biodiversity Act 1999 Referral Form

Gold Coast City Council (GCCC) Draft Terms of Reference (ToR)

for the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)

Appendix D Glossary of Terms

Hinze Dam Stage 3

1.0 Purpose

This briefing kit will provide Community Advisory Committee

(CAC) members with an update of the Hinze Dam Stage 3

upgrade.

This kit also contains four key documents for review:

1. Recreation Issues Paper & Current Recreation Use Map

(Appendix A);

2. Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation

Act 1999 Referral Form (Appendix B);

3. Gold Coast City Council (GCCC) Draft Terms of

Reference (Appendix C) and

4. Glossary of Terms (Appendix D).

2.0 Project Update

2.1 Where to From Here

Jan 2007 Dec 2010

Concept Design and Total Outturn Cost (TOC)

n Optimisation (Jan 2007)

n Concept design ( Jan - Feb 2007 )

n Develop TOC (Jan – April 2007)

Early Works

n ToR (late Jan - March 2007)

n EIS and detailed design (Jan – July 2007)

2.2 Ongoing Technical Assessments

Dam Design

The Alliance has undertaken further development and

assessment of designs for the two preferred options short

listed in December 2006. The assessments have included

further consideration of constructability and risks. The design

development and cost planning has included measures to

mitigate specific risks for the two options. Updates on the

option designs, assessments will be presented to the CAC

on 16 January. An Alliance workshop on 19 January will

facilitate selection of the preferred option.

Recreation Planning

The initial stages of the preparation of a recreation

continuance plan for the dam construction phase and

recreation master plan have been undertaken. During

this process there has been extensive engagement with

recreation user groups, the community recreating at the

dam, community stakeholders, GCCC staff and councillors,

and GCW. In addition, inspections of both the dam and

catchment areas have provided essential information to

the Alliance to enable an understanding of the current

recreation use of the dam. This information has also

been essential in exploring possible future recreation

opportunities.

A recreation issues paper has been prepared and the

detailed recreation planning process has commenced.

Direction setting for the future recreational use of the dam is

a key requirement. With this clear direction the preparation

of both the recreation continuance plan and master plan will

be undertaken.

n

Community consultation on the ToR & EIS

(Jan – July 2007)

n Detailed design (Mar – late 2007)

n Approvals (mid 2007)

n Early works construction (late 2007)

Works Delivery

n Final approvals (late 2007)

n Final detailed design (late 2007)

n Construction (late 2007 - 2010)

n

Handover from GCCC to Gold Coast Water (GCW) for

operation (ready to store water 2010)

Environmental Approvals

Under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity

Conservation Act 1999 (Commonwealth); the Hinze Dam

Alliance has referred the project to the Commonwealth

Minister for Environment and Heritage for his assessment.

The referral has been attached for your information.

In making the referral the Alliance believes that it is a

controlled action which means that approval from the

Commonwealth Department of Environment and Heritage

will be necessary for the project.

ToR and EIS Consultation Period

Gold Coast City Council will undertake a full Environmental

Impact Statement (EIS) as part of the project design

phase. The EIS must address the Terms of Reference (ToR)

approved by the Co-ordinator General (Department of State

Development and Trade, QLD). The EIS will address all social,

economic and environmental issues associated with the

Hinze Dam Stage 3 upgrade.

The community is encouraged to comment on the ToR and

the EIS as per the timeframes outlined in the diagram below.

Geotechnical Investigations

Geotechnical investigations re-commenced on 8 January

2007 and are estimated to be completed by the end of

February 2007. Residents and Recreational users will be

advised that as part of the Hinze Dam Stage 3 Geotechnical

Studies the access road across the dam will be limited to one

lane access from Saturday 13 January 2007 until Saturday 20

January 2007.

From Saturday 20 January the access road will then be

closed to all traffic for approximately 3 weeks. There are

alternative routes to access Hinze Dam; from the east via

Gilston Road or from the west via Advancetown Road.

A PUBLIC NOTICE INFORMING RESIDENTS AND

RECREATIONAL USERS OF THE ROAD CLOSURE HAS

BEEN PLACED IN THE GOLD COAST BULLETIN

Minimising impact on the environment is a priority for

Council, hence, all construction will be underpinned by

Environmental Management plans in accordance with

State and Federal Government Legislation will underpin the

construction work.

Phase 1

Late January – March 2007

Terms of Reference

(ToR)

How the EIS is undertaken will

be guided by the ToR.

The community is encouraged

to comment on the ToR

between late Jan – March

2007.

For more information please

visit:

www.goldcoastcity.com.au/

hinzedamstage3

Environmental Impact

Statement (EIS)

COMMUNITY CONSULATION

Community feedback is encouraged to

ascertain potential impacts, benefits and

possible mitigation strategies for input

into the final EIS.

It is anticipated that the formal EIS

consultation period will occur between

late May – June 2007.

INTEGRATED OPTION DESIGN

n

Phase 2

Late May – June 2007

Hydraulic Modelling

Detailed design (preferred option)

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STUDIES

n Aquatic ecology studies

n Dam Survey

n Cultural Heritage Studies

n Geotechnical Investigations

n Infrastructure Survey

n Recreational Planning

n Terrestrial Fauna and Flora

n Traffic Studies

Phase 3

Late 2007

Approvals

State and Federal Government

approve Stage 3 upgrade

option

SPILLWAY ROAD

BEECHMONT ROAD

LITTLE NERANG ROAD

Hinze Dam Stage 3

2.3 Map

SAN FERNANDO DRIVE

EVANITA DRIVE

WORONGARY ROAD

THE SPUR

HUGH GUINEA COURT

ARTHUR PAYNE COURT

HARRY MILLS DRIVE

INCLINE DRIVE

GLENAURA DRIVE

GLENROWAN DRIVE

CHARLES KURZ DRIVE

NANCY YAUN COURT

RANDOM WAY

UPLANDS COURT

LEISURE LANE

VINCE HINDE DRIVE

IMFELD COURT

COORUMBENE COURT

XANADU COURT

CORALCOAST DRIVE

THE PANORAMA

FOXTAIL COURT

UTOPIA COURT

VISCOUNT DRIVE

EARLE COURT

DUKE COURT

DUCHESS COURT

VERONICA DRIVE

OTIOSE COURT

TALLAI ROAD

RANGE ROAD

TOLHURST COURT

BAILEYS ROAD

GRANDVIEW TERRACE

STRIKE WAY

KERALA COURT

WALLANDRA ROAD

KAGOOLA DRIVE

BERRIGANS ROAD

RAYNER LANE

MARK WAY

JULIE WAY

PINETREE COURT

TARRANT DRIVE

GILWARD DRIVE

MANUKA ROAD

ROAD

HORSESHOE DRIVE

TYALGUM STREET

WALLABY DRIVE

MONARO ROAD

JOHNS ROAD

BELMONT PARK DRIVE

SWANSON PLACE

LOWRY COURT

ROAD

AUSTINVILLE ROAD

BROMFIELD DRIVE

CAMP DRIVE

DUNBAR ROAD

ARAUCARIA LANE

ROAD

KNACK ROAD

STAGHORN DRIVE

DAVENPORT DRIVE

RED OAK DRIVE

ROAD

HINZE DAM

STAGE 3

SITE PLAN

Legend

Property Boundary

Roads

Full Supply Level

±

0 425 850 1,700

Meters

Scale - 1:20,000

(at A1)

Projection: MGA Zone 56

ROAD

TALLAI ROAD

MOUNT NIMMEL ROAD

ROAD

GILSTON ROAD

DUNCAN ROAD

TOULA COURT

ADVANCETOWN ROAD

ROAD

NARROWLEAF ROAD

ROAD

NARROWLEAF ROAD

ROAD

BRUSHBOX ROAD

NORTH ROAD

LOOP ROAD

NERANG MURWILLUMBAH ROAD

ROAD

CLOSED ROAD

TARLINGTON ROAD

MIRANI STREET

JARDINE ROAD

POCKET ROAD

CLOSED ROAD

ELIMBAH COURT

ROAD

I:\QENV\Projects\QE09395\Spatial\Arc_MXD\061114_Sitemap_MGA56_A1.mxd Produced: 15/11/2006

Hinze Dam Stage 3

Appendix A

Hinze Dam Alliance - Recreation Issues Paper

Hinze Dam Recreation Issues Paper

1. Purpose

Recreation planning is an important component of the proposed Stage 3 upgrading of Hinze

Dam. Recreation planning for this project has two important elements:

Planning for disruption to community access and recreation use whilst construction works

are underway, and

Planning for sustainable, long term recreation use that balances the requirements for

protecting the water quality while providing sustainable recreation opportunities for the

community.

This Issues Paper has been developed to summarise the key issues and opportunities at a

strategic level, and identify future recreation options. Consultation has occurred with GCCC

officers from various Council directorates, Councillors, recreation user groups, commercial

operators, as well as occasional visitors to the dam.

The primary use of the dam for Gold Coast City’s potable water sets an essential

management parameter for recreation use of the dam; managing risks to water quality

underlies much of the direction for recreation. Sustainable recreation use requires a balance

between the protection of the City’s water supply, and allowing community access and

appreciation of this highly valued and increasingly sought-after resource.

This Issues Paper summarises what are typically complex and often competing interests

around the current context of recreation use and trends, important issues, and options for

future recreation direction. Its focus is on the dam and immediately surrounding land that is

owned by Gold Coast City Council. This area is referred to as ‘the catchment’ in this paper.

This paper provides background for the next CAC meeting (Jan 16th) which will seek

feedback and direction on a framework for sustainable recreation use and identify important

principles that will guide a future recreation management plan. Important considerations

include:

1. balance between recreation use and water quality;

2. managing recreation – Council’s resources, staff, costs, staff and maintenance;

3. acceptable type and level of facilities;

4. acceptable mix of activities.

2. Current recreation use

Current recreation use can generally be described as nature based recreation: that is,

recreation that requires a natural or semi-natural setting, and builds an appreciation of the

natural environment as part of the experience. Activities are non-motorised, with the

exception of electric motorboats for fishing. Most activities could be described as ‘low impact’

– that is they do not noticeably degrade the natural environment.

Page 1 of 12 December 2006

Hinze Dam Alliance - Recreation Issues Paper

Visitor numbers to Hinze Dam in 1997 were estimated at approximately 7,300 each week; this

equivalent to approximately 380,000 visitors p.a. Given increases in visitation, these numbers

would now likely exceed 500,000 visitors p.a.

Most visitors are located in the park areas, on the water (access usually via 4 boat ramps), or

along a series of walking, riding or cycling trails that are confined to small areas of the

surrounding catchment. Public access particularly to the catchment is limited, and confined to

a few access points and trails.

Table 1 and Table 2 show the level or frequency of use of the Hinze Dam and its surrounds

by the different user groups.

Table 1 Land and Water Based Activities and Frequency of Use

Land based activities Frequency of use Water based activities Frequency of use

Bushwalking Daily Canoeing Daily

Picnicking Daily Dragon-boating Monthly

Model plane flying Monthly Kayaking Weekly

Camping Restricted (weekly) Rowing Monthly

Cross-country running Annually Swimming Weekly

Orienteering Annually Sailing Weekly

Mountain Biking Daily Fishing Daily

Horse riding Daily Boating Daily

Table 2 Events and Commercial Operations and Frequency of Use

Main Events and Commercial Operations

Spectators/participants

per event

Rowing Regattas 400 - 6000 6 per year

Dragon Boat Regattas 400 3 per year

Canoeing Competitions 400 Annually

Rogaine/Bigaine 150 - 250 Biannually

Mountain Bike Races 15 - 200 Monthly

Fishing Competitions 30 - 150 Quarterly

Fishing Tours 5 - 15 Weekly

Fun Run/Cross Country 400 - 600 6 per year

Frequency of Event

3. Stakeholder Views

3.1 Site Surveys

316 observational and 25 face to face surveys were conducted at the Hinze Dam during a

weekend survey in November 2006. The survey recorded the number of users on the dam

and in the parkland areas surrounding the dam, as well as interviews with selected users.

The observation and face to face survey results are shown in Graph 1 and Graph 2 and found

the following:

majority of people were sighted at the northern boat ramp and waterside park;

picnicking was the most popular activity;

majority of visitors were residents of the Gold Coast; and

Page 2 of 12 December 2006

Hinze Dam Alliance - Recreation Issues Paper

frequency of visitors to the area were evenly spread from weekly, monthly, to yearly and

less often than a year.

The features of the dam most valued by visitors were the scenery, peacefulness and the

freshwater. The most popular types of activities the respondents said they participated in

while at the dam included picnicking, sailing, walking, canoeing, and swimming.

Approximately half of the respondents also said that they used the café for drinks, ice-cream

or lunch, but were not likely to stop at other locations during the visit to the area.

Suggestions for improving the area included more picnic areas down the western side of the

dam, more bbq’s in picnic areas, more shelters for shade, and more walking tracks around

different parts of the dam.

Graph 1 – Recreation Usage

Hinze Dam Access Points and Parkland Usage

Small Park on way

to Koala Park

Koala Park

South East Boat

Ramp

Western Boat

Ramp

South West Boat

Ramp

North Boat Ramp

and Waterside Park

Graph 2 – Recreation Activities

Activities at Main Boat Ramps and Parklands

Number of People

180

160

140

120

100

80

60

40

20

0

Mountain biking

Driving / appreciating view

Picnicing/BBQ

Boating

Boat Trailers in Carpark

Sailing

Activities

Windsurfing

Canoeing/Rowing

Swimming/paddling

Western Boat Ramp

Northern Boat Ramp and Park

Page 3 of 12 December 2006

Hinze Dam Alliance - Recreation Issues Paper

3.2 Councillor Interviews

Nine Councillors (including the Mayor) were interviewed for their views on future recreation

use. Many had no strong views, although protection of water quality was seen to be

fundamental to any future plan.

Points that emerged from a number of interviews include:

Continuing of large events (e.g. rowing) was questioned;

Acknowledging the value of having views and a park overlooking the water;

Recognising the area as important for recreation to the community; and

Little interest in encouraging large crowds or increased use of vehicles. Councillors

valued the natural, tranquil setting which provides feeling of solitude.

3.3 Recreation Stakeholder Group Surveys

The Hinze Dam Alliance undertook a telephone survey of recreation user groups of the dam

to develop an understanding of the current level of recreation, as well as gauge the value of

the area for recreation. There is a wide range of recreation groups who use the Hinze Dam;

over twenty stakeholders participated in the survey. They included education centres and

school camps, scouts, canoeing and rowing groups, horse riders, mountain bikers, fishing

clubs and competition bodies (Australian Bass Tournaments) and a model flying club.

Table 3 provides a brief summary of the survey results including the values and future

opportunities for Hinze Dam as identified by the different recreation groups.

Page 4 of 12 December 2006

Hinze Dam Alliance - Recreation Issues Paper

Table 3 Recreation User Group Survey Results

User Group Values Alternative Locations Future Opportunities

Fishing Groups

Gold Coast Mountain Bike

Club

Queensland Canoeing

Burleigh Fire Dragons

Rowing Queensland

Schools

Education groups

Great location in SEQ, and on Gold Coast

Very quiet and pretty, natural location

Few freshwater water bodies around.

Good for picnics, BBQs and away from the busy

coastal areas. Good for families and swimming.

Well stocked with fish and easy to fish

120,000 fingerlings released each year

Accessibility for the riders.

Facilities – toilets, swimming, kiosk.

Delight to paddle on when it is calm and the

scenery is beautiful.

No sharks.

Freshwater (is harder to paddle on then

saltwater)

Good facilities: racing lanes, boat ramp and land

for picnic and car park.

Only 2000m buoyed course in SEQ– well set up

with the finishing lodge.

Council assistance is good for the events as

well.

Very attractive area that is away from the school

and offers a new environment for the kids.

Safe place for canoeing.

It has a variety of terrains.

Natural setting, beautiful views.

Isolation with no public interference.

Location in SEQ

A magical place to fish, challenging but good all

year.

No power boats.

Good dam for water activities, sheltered from

the wind.

Clarrie Hall dam, Lake Awonga, Lesley Dam

(near Warwick), Wivenhoe, Maroon Dam.

No sites on the Gold Coast.

Not really other places for riding on Gold Coast

Lake Kawana on the Sunshine Coast is now

used for events. New facility and is liked by QLD

Canoeing.

Waterways near Pacific Fair, Clear Island,

Currumbin creek, Burleigh backwaters.

Varsity Lakes is an alternative but doesn’t have

as good facilities.

No other freshwater locations on Gold Coast.

Coomera is a possible development site –

currently looking for alternative sites.

Broadwater is not very safe, particularly for

overnight. Wivenhoe, lake Cootharabah, Noosa

River are also alternatives but are far away.

Cross county race has been held at

Coombabah and Runaway Bay, but these

courses are not as good.

There are some sites in the Gold Coast but they

don’t have water.

Sites for water activities are over an hour away.

Other locations too far to travel or don’t have the

same natural feel or isolation as Hinze.

Potential alternatives: Brisbane River, Gold

Coast Canals, Lake Samsonvale, Lake

Wivenhoe or Moreton Bay, Lake Moogarah,

Maroon Dam.

Maintain recreation facilities such as picnic

tables, BBQs and continue as is.

Extra boat ramps for closures and upgrade

lower ramps.

Use outboard motors for filming TV show

More mountain biking, canoeing.

Track around the dam.

Canoeing needs easy access to water by a

trailer, access to pontoons is preferable than

banks.

Toilets also required for events and nice to have

shaded areas and places to eat (picnic areas,

BBQs)

Sailing would be good - calmer conditions than

Broadwater.

Works well as it is.

Would like to see some more walking tracks and

possibly some camping facilities

Shed for the boats close to the water.

Retain current natural feeling and minimal

infrastructure and permitted activities.

Learn to sail opportunities for children

Improve ramp access to eastern arm and picnic

area. Improve ramp at western arm

Improved mgt of Pine Creek (South West) area

(litter, alcohol, glass).

Create rafting course from the Nerang River into

the dam. Create kayak course out of the wind.

Extend the current bushwalks from the wall

down the arms of the lake.

Page 5 of 12 December 2006

Hinze Dam Alliance - Recreation Issues Paper

User Group Values Alternative Locations Future Opportunities

Logan and Beaudesert

Bushwalking Club

Pretty areas, Pleasant outlook in the picnic

area.

Short, easy walk,

National parks, but other locations don’t have

water.

Stay natural.

Rogaine/Bigaine

Location in SEQ

Aesthetically pleasing, and good climate, with a

mixture of terrain.

Water good for the bigaine – not suitable area

for a regular rograine though.

Yes, there are events held in a number of

locations around SEQ and other parts of QLD.

On the Border Rangers, D’Agular Ranges, near

Warwick, Sunshine Coast,

We are self sufficient so no suggestions for the

future.

Mudgeerabah and

Hinterland Trail Riders

Club

Location near the horse stables.

One of the only trails left in the area.

Scenery is beautiful - gums, rainforest. Tracks

are good and are maintained fairly well.

No, they are all closing down, - state

government have closed some – wanting to

close this one as well.

More tracks in the area would be good.

State Government trail from Hinterland to

Beaudesert apparently going ahead.

In summary:

The natural, tranquil setting is highly valued by users;

The large body of freshwater offers a recreation setting that is difficult to experience elsewhere in Gold Coast area;

Canoeing, rowing, horse riding, dragon boating and mountain biking are restricted in terms of alternative locations;

The area is safe – for learners, schools and others (free from sharks, strong currents, large numbers of the general public);

A number of groups expressed an interest in increasing the number of trails for walking around the dam; and

Most groups felt that facilities at the dam were adequate for their current needs. But any closure of the top (northern) boat ramps would require the ramps

in the upper reaches of the dam to remain open and possibly be upgraded.

Page 6 of 12 December 2006

Hinze Dam Alliance - Recreation Issues Paper

3.4 GCCC and Alliance Workshop

A workshop was held on 17 th November 2006 with a range of officers from various

directorates of GCCC and the Alliance team to discuss the direction for recreation on Hinze

Dam and its surrounds. The main issues discussed were the current situation of recreation on

the dam, the future direction for recreation, and the importance of ensuring recreation

activities do not impact water quality.

Important points to emerge from the workshop included the consensus that vehicle access

across the dam wall would not be necessary post construction. It was suggested that

pedestrian access and viewing platforms on the dam wall would be sufficient to provide water

views.

It was also agreed that because the main picnic areas with access and views of the water will

be inundated, an alternative location/s for a similar facility is preferable. Quarry Ridge was

suggested as a potential site that could provide a parkland connection to water.

4. Background Research

4.1 Recreation in Water Catchments

An investigation of the levels of recreation activities in drinking water catchments across

Australia was conducted to understand how other water authorities manage their catchments.

The case studies that were chosen provide a representation of the major metropolitan water

supply catchments for most Australian states.

The case studies highlighted that there is no consistent approach to managing recreation in

drinking water catchments in Australia. Some water authorities totally restrict access to entire

catchments or parts of some catchments, while allowing limited recreation use of other areas.

Within the Melbourne Water jurisdiction some catchments are totally closed to public access,

although there are also dams are within agricultural areas that allow low impact recreation

such as fishing and sailing. Sydney Water manages recreation activities through a series of

restriction zones. This is similar to WA Water Corporation that also has restriction zones

upstream of the dam wall, but allows some activities outside of these areas. SEQ Water

dams are located within agricultural and rural catchments. Recreation activities such as

fishing, boating, canoeing, camping, picnicking and walking are all allowed in designated

areas of the SEQ Water dams. Table 4 provides a brief summary of recreation access to

other drinking water catchments in Australia.

Table 4 Recreation Access in Metropolitan Water Catchments

Authority / Water

body

Meander Dam Tasmania,

Department of Primary

Industries and Water

Tasmania

Melbourne Water

Access policy

Multipurpose dam, primary objective is to supply water for

irrigation, open for low impact recreation activities such as

picnicking, bushwalking, canoeing and kayaking. Camping,

water skiing, jet skiing, competitive rowing, horse riding and

mountain biking were considered not suitable due to other

opportunities available, costs, risks and potential for

disturbance.

90% of areas are closed to public either as native forest

catchments or with 80 meter buffers from waters edge. Only

one reservoir is open to bushwalking, fishing and sailing and

that is because the reservoir flows into the Yarra River,

which is not in a pristine condition.

Commercial

operations

None

Some on the Yarra

River, not dams.

Page 7 of 12 December 2006

Hinze Dam Alliance - Recreation Issues Paper

Authority / Water

body

Sydney Catchment

Authority

SEQ Water

Water Corporation

Western Australia

Access policy

Majority of areas is no entry except for some limited walking

tracks. Three dams allow walking, camping, fishing,

swimming and non-powered boats due to historical use

when the reservoirs were owned by Sydney Water

Allows access, but the type of access and locations varies.

Most activities are supported except boating, camping, horse

riding, mountain biking, 4WDing or swimming. Camping,

swimming and boating are supported at Lake Somerset and

Wivenhoe, however there are no motorboats allowed on

Wivenhoe. Access is managed through permits and club

memberships.

A restriction zone of 2km surrounds the majority of dams

that supply Perth. No recreation activities are allowed within

these restriction zones, except where activities such as bush

walking or riding were historically permitted.

Picnic areas are all located below the spillway, away from

the dam catchment areas.

Commercial

operations

Canoeing operation

on Lake Yeronga.

Activities negotiated

with community

during construction

None

5. Recreation Demand

The increased demand for nature-based recreation is demonstrated at regional, national, and

international scales. A survey of outdoor recreation demand in South East Queensland

(Queensland Outdoor Recreation Federation, 2001) has shown that there are large

percentages of the population participating in a diverse range of outdoor recreation activities.

The most popular activities were picnicking, walking, nature study and water activities.

Table 5 Participation in recreation activities from survey September to November

2001 (1998 figures)

Activity

% participated

in previous 12

months

Frequency

(average

p.a.)

Somewhat

natural (%)

Recreational setting

Very natural (%)

Totally natural

(%)

Picnicking 67% 4 59% 33% 8%

Water

Activities

Walking or

Nature Study

56% 12 62% 31% 7%

49% 12 49% 34% 17%

Camping 33% 2 29% 51% 20%

Bicycle Riding 26% 11 83% 15% 2%

Horse riding 7% 2 27% 46% 27%

Residential population predictions project a further increase of 265,000 persons for the Gold

Coast over the next 20 years and over 1.17 million for South East Queensland (LGPSR,

2006). International tourists are predicted to grow at an average annual growth rate of 5.5%

from 2006 to 2015 for both Australia as a whole and Queensland, with Queensland expected

to attract a total of 43% of the international visitors (Tourism Queensland 2006).

6. Recreation and water quality

There is a recognised increased risk to water quality from recreation use; although it is not a

linear or direct cause-effect relationship. This reflects the complex interactions and processes

occurring in the natural environment (geological, biological, and hydrological), making it

Page 8 of 12 December 2006

Hinze Dam Alliance - Recreation Issues Paper

difficult to demonstrate a direct or causal link between increased recreation use and impact

on water quality.

The most recent and comprehensive study of this issue 1 raises the following points:

There are different approaches to managing recreation by water authorities across

Australia; ranging from closed to public access, to selective and managed recreation use

in particular areas, to broad public access and use. Table 6 and Table 7 provide

additional detail.

The variety in approaches reflects the purpose of the dam, the level of control over the

catchment areas by the water authority, historical precedents, availability of alternative

opportunities and public perception of their ‘right’ to access land and water areas.

Catchment management and water source protection is the first barrier for protection of

water quality. Typically most potable water supplies have multiple barriers to protect

water quality. These do not remove contaminants, but reduce their concentrations.

The greatest risk to consumers of drinking water is pathogenic micro-organisms.

Protection of water supplies from this type of contamination should never be

compromised.

In the absence of certainty of the cumulative impact of recreation on water quality, a

precautionary approach is recommended.

That is, recreation activity should be limited, managed, and restricted to activities that pose a

lower risk to water quality.

Table 6 Water Based Recreation in Other Metropolitan Water Catchments

City Fishing Passive

Boating

Power

Boating

Swimming

Perth

Darwin

Adelaide

Melbourne

Comments

One pumpback source only

allows these activities

One emergency source only

allows these activities

Trial access for limited fishing

on water bodies.

One off-stream source only

allows these activities.

Sydney Permitted on reserve sources.

Brisbane

- no catchments - all - some

Situated on large dams, water

travels 60km from dam before

treatment. Access generally

from land not owned by utility.

Table 7 Land Based Activities in Other Metropolitan Water Catchments

City Hunting Vehicle

access

Mountain

Bikes

Rogaine /

orienteeri

ng

Camping

Bush

walking

Picnicking

Perth

Darwin

Adelaide

Melbourne

Horse

riding

1 Miller, R, Bennett, B. Birrell, J. and Deere, D. (2006). Recreational Access to Drinking Water

Catchments and Storages in Australia. CRC for Water Quality and Treatment Research Report 24.

Page 9 of 12 December 2006

Hinze Dam Alliance - Recreation Issues Paper

City Hunting Vehicle

access

Mountain

Bikes

Rogaine /

orienteeri

ng

Camping

Bush

walking

Picnicking

Sydney

Brisbane n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a

- no catchments - all - some

7. Future recreation direction

7.1 Important issues to consider

Any increase or change in recreation activity will most likely result in changes to maintenance

and management, levels of access and facilities. It also gradually changes the recreation

experience; more users mean increased ‘hardening’ or re-design of facilities to cater for the

additional use, and greater numbers result in a more ‘social’ experience with less solitude.

Horse

riding

The overall level and nature of sustainable recreation use. What is a sustainable mix of

recreation activities into the future What is an appropriate balance in the context of

protecting a potable water supply, and an increasing demand by the community to access

natural areas for both active recreation and passive appreciation

Events that attract crowds, with a reliance on speed and competition are seen by some

as inappropriate for the setting. Rowing would be relocated at the planned Coomera

Aquatic Sports Precinct – although the course is currently inadequate for national titles

(too short). Completion is planned in 6-9 months.

Relocation of the main waterside park which will be flooded. It will be challenging to

relocate the park with views overlooking the water. A number of options could include:

Trails with water vistas and viewing platforms;

One option being further assessed is along Quarry Ridge, this area is away from

the water’s edge, and so reduces risk to water quality from the current situation;

Upgrading other parks in the hinterland that offer similar setting as alternative

locations; and

Developing existing parks behind the dam wall.

Commercial enterprises: these are currently at very low levels (e.g. small group

outdoor adventure tours). There is increasing demand for nature-based adventure

activities or commercial activities managed by the operator which require facilities and

permanent infrastructure. Commercial activities could extend to an eco-lodge, solarpowered

ferry or high lookout tower that provides 360 0 views.

Economic return: the area has potential to yield a higher economic return to Council

than at present – particularly through a higher profile to the tourism sector and

encouraging selected commercial enterprises that would offer a novel experience unique

to South east Queensland. Commercial activities could be planned as part of an

integrated economic development strategy for the wider Hinze catchment or hinterland

area.

Management and resourcing costs: current management is very ‘low key’, with two

rangers spending approx 50% of their time on recreation issues. There are few formal

commercial arrangements in place (e.g. leasing of areas, licences, fee collection, formal

agreements re access).

Page 10 of 12 December 2006

Hinze Dam Alliance - Recreation Issues Paper

No public car access across the spillway: currently visitors can drive across the

spillway to recreation parks and boat ramps. A narrow dam wall with public pedestrian

access only has major benefits of reduced cost and amount of rock fill.

8. Two options for future management direction

Recreation opportunities at Hinze Dam can be presented along a ‘spectrum’ from virtually no

public access and use to a high level of use. Generally risks to water quality increase as

levels of recreation use increase along the spectrum.

As the level of recreation use increases, management and costs will increase – in terms of

facilities, maintenance, and ranger presence. The benefits are greater access, enjoyment

and appreciation by the community, and some economic return and tourism profile if

commercial enterprises are encouraged. All options assume recreation will remain naturebased,

non-motorised and be designed suitable for the natural setting.

The following diagrams illustrate the current situation and two options along this spectrum.

The options include:

Option A: current levels of recreation access and use are largely maintained but with

greater emphasis on education and interpretation through a visitors centre and new

walking trails;

Option B: increase in the use and profile of the area with commercial activity including

accommodation and outdoor adventure tourism and a wider network of trails.

Addition information about each option is outlined in Figure 1 and Figure 2. All options will

see an improvement in facilities.

Figure 1 Spectrum of Options for Recreation

Page 11 of 12 December 2006

Hinze Dam Alliance - Recreation Issues Paper

Figure 2 Options Details for Recreation

A

B

Events

Commercial Enterprises

Vehicle Access -

Water Access -

Trails

Park

Built infrastructure

7.3 Facilities/uses immediately downstream of spillway

Outside the dam catchment and downstream of the spillway, all options have the opportunity

for:

Integrated, master-planned parkland with improved facilities;

Interactive, educational visitor centre and interpretive materials around trails;

Pedestrian access across the spillway with views across the water and viewing platforms

(spillway design still to be determined).

Page 12 of 12 December 2006

XY

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±

HINZE DAM

STAGE 3

EXISTING RECREATIONAL

ACTIVITIES

G:\Spatial\Arc_MXD\061201_Recreational_Acivities_MGA56_A3.mxd Produced: 11/12/2006

0 500 1,000

250

Metres

Projection: MGA Zone 56

Scale - 1:30,000 (at A3)

Beechm ont Road

Neran g Murwillumbah Ro ad

Gold Coast Springbroo k Road

Worongary Road

Lake Advancetown

Pine Cre e k

Road

Education Centre

Regatta Centre

Rowing Infrastructure

Legend

Building/Shelter

Rowing Course

Horse Trail

Walking Track

Biking

Model Flying Club

Grave

Road

Vehicle Access

Mountain Bike Track

Walking Track

Parkland

Fishing and Canoeing Area

XY

Proposed

Full Supply Level (94.5 m)

Boat Ramp

Toilets

! Access Point

Intake Tower

Hinze Dam Stage 3

Appendix B

153°10'0"E

BRISBANE 48km

153°20'0"E

153°30'0"E

G:\Spatial\Arc_MXD\061204_RAMSAR_MGA56_A3.mxd Produced: 20/12/2006

SOUTH STRADBROKE ISLAND

COOMBABAH

SOUTHPORT

HINZE DAM STAGE 3

EPBC REFERRAL

FIGURE 1

OVERVIEW

28°0'0"S

NERANG

28°0'0"S

Legend

Gold Coast City Council

LGA Boundary

Nerang River Catchment

HINZE DAM

Advancetown Lake

ROBINA

Ramsar Wetland

Central Eastern

Rainforest Reserves

World Heritage Property

Queensland

MUDGEERABA

BURLEIGH HEADS

Little Nerang Dam

±

28°10'0"S

COOLANGATTA

28°10'0"S

4 2 0 4

Kilometres

Scale - 1:250,000 (at A4)

SPRINGBROOK

NATIONAL PARK

Projection: MGA Zone 56

NATURAL BRIDGE

LAMINGTON NATIONAL PARK

New South Wales

153°10'0"E

153°20'0"E

153°30'0"E

G:\Spatial\Arc_MXD\061220_General_Construction_Areas_MGA56_A4.mxd Produced: 20/12/2006

Lower Intake

Workshops

Advancetow n Road

Mott e e Court

Office

Gilston Road

HINZE DAM STAGE 3

EPBC REFERRAL

FIGURE 3

GENERAL

CONSTRUCTION

AREAS

Legend

Dam Face

V Intake Tower

Construction Areas

Auxillary spillway

V

Map Key

Offices and Workshops

Lower Construction Area

Quarry

Inset

Upper Construction

Area

Advancetown Lake

Hinze Dam Stage 3

Appendix C

Gold Coast City Council

Hinze Dam Stage 3

Draft Terms of Reference

August 2006

CONTENTS

Part A - Preamble 1

Project Summary 1

Regulatory Environment 2

Administrative Details for these Terms of Reference 2

Purpose of the Terms of Reference 2

EIS Guidelines 3

EIS Objectives and Key Issues 4

Part B – Specific Requirements - Content of the EIS 2

Executive Summary 2

Glossary of Terms 2

1. Introduction 3

1.1 Project Proponent 3

1.2 Project Description 3

1.3 Project Objectives and Scope 4

1.4 The Environmental Impact Assessment Process 4

1.4.1 Methodology of the EIS 4

1.4.2 Objectives of the EIS 4

1.4.3 Submissions 4

1.5 Public Consultation Process 4

1.5.1 Consultation Overview 5

1.5.2 Objectives of Community Consultation 5

1.5.3 Stakeholders for the Project 5

1.5.4 The General Community 6

1.6 Project Approvals 6

1.6.1 Relevant legislation and policy requirements 6

1.6.2 Planning Context 6

2. Project Need and Alternatives 8

2.1 Need for the Project 8

2.2 Relationship to other Projects 8

2.3 Alternatives 8

3. Description of the Project 9

3.1 Location and General Description 9

3.2 Proposed Works 9

3.3 Inundation Areas 9

3.4 Construction Methodology 9

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3.4.1 Construction Materials 9

3.4.2 Transport and Access 10

3.4.3 Employment 10

3.5 Quarry Management 10

3.6 Auxiliary Infrastructure Requirements 10

3.7 Water Supply Operations 10

3.8 Erosion Control 10

3.9 Waste Management 10

3.10 Operations 10

4. Environmental Values and Management of Impacts 11

4.1 Land 11

4.1.1 Description of Environmental Values 11

4.1.2 Potential Impacts and Mitigation Measures 13

4.2 Climate 14

4.3 Water Resources 14

4.3.1 Description of Environmental Values 14

4.3.2 Potential Impacts and Mitigation Measures 15

4.4 Terrestrial Flora 17

4.4.1 Description of Environmental Values 17

4.4.2 Potential Impacts and Mitigation Measures 18

4.5 Terrestrial Fauna 19

4.5.1 Description of Environmental Values 20

4.5.2 Potential Impacts and Mitigation Measures 20

4.6 Aquatic Biology 21

4.6.1 Description of Environmental Values 21

4.6.2 Potential Impacts and Mitigation Measures 21

4.7 Cultural Heritage 22

4.7.1 Description of Environmental Values 22

4.7.2 Potential Impacts and Mitigation Measures 22

4.8 Air Environment 23

4.8.1 Description of Environmental Values 23

4.8.2 Potential Impacts and Mitigation Measures 23

4.8.3 Greenhouse Gas Impacts 23

4.9 Noise and Vibration 24

4.9.1 Description of Environmental Values 24

4.9.2 Potential Impacts and Mitigation Measures 24

4.10 Socio-Economic Environment 24

4.10.1 Description of Environmental Values 25

4.10.2 Potential Impacts and Mitigation Measures 25

4.11 Waste Management 26

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4.11.1 Waste Generation 26

4.11.2 Waste Management 26

4.12 Traffic Management 27

4.12.1 Construction Related Impacts 27

4.12.2 Road Realignment 27

4.13 Hazard and Risk 27

5. Environmental Management Plan 28

6. Conclusions and Recommendations 29

7. References 30

8. Recommended Appendices 31

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Part A - Preamble

The proponent for this Proposal is Gold Coast City Council (GCCC). The project will be

delivered by way of an Alliance between GCCC and a consortium of private sector companies.

Project Summary

The Project to which this draft terms of reference is proposed to apply involves the

augmentation of Hinze Dam to the Stage 3 height. The Hinze Dam Stage 3 Project (HDS3) will

provide greater flood mitigation capacity significantly benefiting properties downstream on the

Nerang River, improve the yield and reliability of the dam for water supply and make the dam

compliant with current dam safety design guidelines and standards. Based on the above

requirements and preliminary investigations undertaken to date, the height of the main dam

embankment crest is planned to increase from 93.5 m AHD to 106 m AHD 1 . The height

increase consists of:

» 8.2 meters to accommodate dam safety requirements, based on the revised Bureau of

Meteorology methodology for estimating Peak Mean Flow (PMF) events;

» 4.8 meters (79,000 ML) for flood mitigation purposes (Q100 flood events); and

» 10.3 meters for additional water storage capacity 2 . 3

The project scope of works is expected to include:

» quarrying

» raising of the existing dam wall

» upgrading saddle dams, spillways and chutes

» augmentation of the upper and lower intake towers

» bridge and road upgrades

» vegetation clearing and restoration

Hinze Dam is located approximately 15 km southwest of Nerang on the Nerang River and

supplies the majority of the water needs for Gold Coast City, a rapidly growing urban centre with

a buoyant economy. In addition to being a major water source for the region, the Hinze Dam

catchment provides significant and appreciable benefits to the community through flood

mitigation, environmental protection, tourism and recreation.

Council owns the majority of the land immediately around Hinze Dam, which has a Community

Infrastructure Designation (CID) (Lot 4 SP164198).

1

AHD – Australian Height Datum

2

The capacity for additional water supply to be accommodated in the detailed design will be determined subject to a

dam optimisation study.

3

The height increase indicated for the dam is expected to be less than the sum of the individual components as the

dam design is expected to allow non-exclusive storage to give effect to the required capacities.

41/15842/342881 Hinze Dam Stage 3

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GCCC has prepared an Initial Advice Statement (IAS), which provides further detail relating to

the Project.

Regulatory Environment

The HDS3 Project is expected to require a number of approvals at the Commonwealth and

State levels in order to proceed. The ToR will be drafted to meet the legislative requirements of

all Government agencies.

At the Commonwealth level, the project may trigger the Environment Protection and Biodiversity

Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) in relation to potential impacts on matters of National

Environmental Significance, including listed endangered and migratory species.

At the State level, the project will be subject to a number of approvals under various legislations.

The project approvals process will either proceed under the State Development and Public

Works Organisation Act 1971 as a declared ‘Significant Project’ through the carriage of the

State Government Coordinator General or under the IDAS process of the Integrated Planning

Act 1997. The relevant legislation and policy identified includes:

» State Development and Public Works Organisation Act 1971;

» Integrated Planning Act 1997;

» Vegetation Management Act 1999;

» Environmental Protection Act 1994;

» Water Act 2000;

» Fisheries Act 1995;

» Nature Conservation Act 1992;

» Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2003;

» Transport Infrastructure Act 1994; and

» Land Act 1994.

Much of the project area is already subject to a Community Infrastructure Designation and this

will be extended to cover the additional impoundment area. In addition the project has been

listed as an emergency water supply for the SEQ Region under the Part 8 of the Water

Regulation 2002 and accordingly is an ‘Authorised Works’ under the State Development and

Public Works Organisation Act 1971. As such, it is expected that no Gold Coast City Council

Planning Scheme approvals are required.

Administrative Details for these Terms of Reference

Purpose of the Terms of Reference

The draft Terms of Reference (ToR) are for the HDS3, and relate to the assessment of the

impacts on the environment of the proposals as described in this document.

This ToR essentially outlines the issues that should be considered in preparing the

Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). Furthermore, the ToR provides a framework for the

41/15842/342881 Hinze Dam Stage 3

Draft Terms of Reference

EIS, including information on the purpose and role of the EIS, and the factors considered to be

most significant for the proposal. It indicates the types of necessary studies and the data that

should be provided.

In preparing the EIS, the proponent should be cognisant of the following aims of the EIS and

public review process:

» To provide a source of information from which interested individuals or groups may gain an

understanding of the proposal, the need for the proposal, the alternatives, the environment

which it would affect, the impacts that may occur and the measures to be taken to minimise

these impacts;

» To provide a forum for public consultation and informed comment on the proposal;

» To provide a framework in which decision-makers can consider the environmental aspects of

the proposal in parallel with economic, technical and other factors.

All potentially significant impacts of the proposed development on the environment are to be

investigated, and intentions for the mitigation of any adverse impacts are to be detailed in the

EIS. Any prudent and feasible alternatives should be discussed and treated in sufficient detail

and reasons for selection of the preferred option should be clearly identified. The nature and

level of investigations should be relative to the likely extent and gravity of impacts. The

guidelines should, however, not be interpreted as excluding from consideration any matters

which are currently unforeseen, which may arise during ongoing scientific studies or which may

arise from any changes in the nature of the proposal during the preparation of the Draft EIS, the

community consultation process and associated documentation.

The EIS should address at least the requirements as set out in this ToR.

EIS Guidelines

The objective of the EIS is to identify potential environmental impacts and to ensure that

impacts are avoided where possible. Where unavoidable, impacts must be examined fully and

addressed so that the development is based on sound environmental protection and

management criteria.

An EIS should provide:

» A description of the relevant aspects of the existing social, economic, natural and built

environment;

» A description of the development proposal and means of achieving the development

objectives;

» Definition and analysis of the likely impacts of the development on the environment;

» A framework against which Government decision – makers can consider the environmental

species of the proposal and set conditions for approval to ensure environmentally sound

development;

» Definition of all significant impacts and measures proposed to mitigate adverse effects; and

» Recommendations on the need for and consents of any environmental management plans

and/or operational plans to mitigate adverse effects.

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Draft Terms of Reference

EIS Objectives and Key Issues

Objectives

The objectives of the EIS are as follows:

» to provide information on the proposal and development process to the community and

decision makers;

» to comprehensively identify and evaluate all relevant issues associated with the proposal;

» to identify all potential environmental, social, transport and land use planning impacts of the

preferred concept, and recommend infrastructure and facilities needs together with other

design and operational measures required to minimise or compensate for adverse impacts

and enhanced benefits;

» to consult with the community and relevant stakeholders in the process of identifying,

assessing and responding to the impacts of the proposal;

» to identify all necessary licences, planning and environmental approvals including approval

requirements pursuant to the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999,

Queensland State Development and Public Works Organisation Act 1971, Integrated Planning

Act 1997 (including the Vegetation Management Act 1995, Environmental Protection Act

1994, Water Act 2000, Fisheries Act 1995), Native Title Act 1993, Aboriginal Cultural

Heritage Act 2003, Nature Conservation Act 1993, Land Act 1994, Transport Infrastructure

Act 1994 and Acquisition of Land Act 1967 and other legislation; and

» to provide an input to the decision-making process, assisting with the determination of

whether to accept or modify the proposal, approve it with conditions or carry out further

studies.

Key Issues

The issues to be addressed as part of the EIS can be divided into the following categories:

» project justification and alternatives;

» impacts on terrestrial flora and fauna;

» impacts on aquatic environment;

» impacts on hydrology and water quality;

» erosion control issues;

» impacts on areas of cultural heritage

value or indigenous significance;

» dust generation and greenhouse gas

emissions;

» impacts on noise and vibration;

» impacts on surrounding land uses and

land use planning;

» economic issues (including impacts on

businesses in surrounding areas);

» hazard and public risk; and

» impacts on local residents and the

broader community.

The EIS will be required to consider in detail all relevant issues under each of these categories

and all other impacts on the physical and social environment. The information required is

described in the following sections.

41/15842/342881 Hinze Dam Stage 3

Draft Terms of Reference

Part B – Specific Requirements - Content of the EIS

The EIS Report will be used to inform the public, decision-makers and relevant stakeholders of

the potential impacts of the project, and the management of those impacts. The Report should

be written in a clear, plain English style easily understood by the general reader. Text within the

report should be references and where appropriate, supported by coloured maps, plans,

diagrams and other descriptive details.

The report should be supported by appendices, which include detailed results of technical

studies and results of community consultation (including detailed submissions where

appropriate, summaries of submissions, comments and inputs provided, details of individuals

and organisation consulted etc).

An overview of the methodology used to undertake the various assessments should be

provided in each section. The EIS Report should contain and address at least the following

components and may be structured with similar headings to the ToR.

Executive Summary

The Executive Summary should be written as a stand-alone document, able to be reproduced

on request for interested parties who may not wish to read or purchase the EIS as a whole. The

structure of the executive summary should follow that of the EIS, though focused strongly on the

key issues allowing the reader to obtain a clear understanding of the HDS3 Project, its

environmental and socio economic implications and management objectives. The summary

should include:

» The title of the Project;

» Name and contact details of the Proponent, and a discussion of previous projects

undertaken by the Proponent and their commitment to effective environmental management;

» A concise statement of the aims and objectives of the Project;

» The legal framework, decision-making authorities and advisory agencies;

» An outline of the background to and need for the Project, including the consequences of not

proceeding with the Project;

» An outline of the alternative options considered and reasons for the selection of the

proposed development option;

» A brief description of the Project (pre-construction, construction and operational activities)

and the existing environment, utilising visual aids where appropriate; and

» An outline of the principal environmental impacts predicted and the proposed environmental

management strategies (including waste minimisation and management) and commitments

to minimise the significance of these impacts.

Glossary of Terms

A glossary of technical terms, acronyms and references should be provided.

41/15842/342881 Hinze Dam Stage 3

Draft Terms of Reference

1. Introduction

The Introduction to the EIS should detail the key drivers and reason/s for the EIS, the audience

whom will be reviewing the document, the approval process and legislative context, structure of

the document and the level of detail provided in the EIS.

1.1 Project Proponent

This section should provide details regarding GCCC and key contact details for Project staff and

the Project consultants and any other sub-consultants, detailing their primary function and areas

of expertise.

1.2 Project Description

This section should provide a description of the Project in sufficient detail to allow the reader to

gain an understanding of the key element of the Project, including the following:

» All components of the Project;

» the current features of the site: the existing dam wall and associated water supply

infrastructure, current yield of Hinze Dam, current inundation area and ancillary features

such as kiosk, picnic area and up stream facilities;

» the proposed works, including:

– Water Supply Infrastructure Upgrades - This section should describe the upgrade of the

dam wall, spillway, saddle dams, intake towers, downstream works and other

infrastructure directly related to the dam infrastructure;

– Inundation Area - This section should describe the inundation area, including land tenure

and land use; and

– Related Works - This section should describe other related works required as a result of

the proposed Stage 3 raising. This will include the road relocations and upgrades,

quarries (within and external to Lot 4), any changes to water supply system.

» The precise location of any works to be undertaken, structures to be built or elements of the

action that may have relevant impacts;

» How the works are to be undertaken and design parameters for those aspects of the

structures or elements of the project that may have revenant impacts;

The description should include the use of aerial photographs, maps, figures and diagrams (with

a scale), where appropriate. Reference should be made to detailed technical information in

appendices, where relevant.

This section should also provide a brief description of background studies which have informed

the development of the Project.

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1.3 Project Objectives and Scope

This section should provide a statement of the objectives which have led to the formulation of

the project and brief outline of the events which have influenced the formulation of the project.

This should include a brief discussion of feasible alternative, proposed time frames for

implementation and expected Project life, anticipated establishment costs and relevant actions

already undertaken in relation to the Project.

1.4 The Environmental Impact Assessment Process

This section will clearly identify which legislative process is relevant and the methodology being

adopted to comply with the relevant legislation.

1.4.1 Methodology of the EIS

This section should include a description of the impact assessment process steps, timing and

decision making process for the relevant stages of the Project. This should also include a

description of how the consultation process will be integrated with other elements of the impact

assessment, including timing and stages for public input.

1.4.2 Objectives of the EIS

This section should provide a succinct statement of the EIS objectives. The structure of the EIS

can be outlined as an explanation of how the EIS will meet its objectives.

The objectives of the EIS are to:

» Provide public information on the need for an likely effects of the Project on the natural,

social and economic environment;

» to set out acceptable standards and levels of impacts (both beneficial and adverse) on

environment; and

» demonstrate how these impacts can be managed.

The role of the EIS in providing the project’s draft environmental management plan (EMP)

should also be discussed, particularly in relation to providing management measures that can

become condition for the Project.

1.4.3 Submissions

Details on how public submissions on the Draft EIS will be addressed and considered in the

decision making process.

1.5 Public Consultation Process

This section should outline the methodology that will be adopted to identify and mitigate socioeconomic

impacts of the project. Information about the consultation that has already taken

place and the results of such consultation should be provided. This section should also detail

how outcomes of the consultation process have been incorporated into the project design

and/or management.

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1.5.1 Consultation Overview

Community consultation is an essential element of the EIS process, as it will assist with

identifying the broad scale community issues to the local community and interest groups.

Consultation will facilitate ongoing communication and allow the community to become involved

in both the design and decision-making processes. The involvement of the community will need

to occur throughout the EIS.

The community consultation program should also be broad enough to ensure wide awareness

of the proposal and the EIS process, and provide adequate opportunities for input.

1.5.2 Objectives of Community Consultation

The objectives for community consultation for the EIS are to:

» Enhance community awareness and understanding of the project, with the provision of

adequate and appropriate information;

» Identify key stakeholders (including representatives of stakeholder groups), their needs and

values;

» Facilitate involvement by the community;

» Provide information on the EIS process;

» Seek input in terms of key issues and concerns and suggestions to mitigate these concerns;

» Seek feedback on the preferred concept;

» Provide information on the outcomes of the study; and

» Demonstrate that the issues of concern to the community have been identified and

considered during the EIS.

1.5.3 Stakeholders for the Project

The stakeholder, or ‘community’, for the project will include advisory bodies (such as

government agencies and authorities), community and special interest groups.

Different methods and approaches to consultation will be necessary, depending on the needs of

difference stakeholders.

Advisory Bodies

Advisory bodies include government departments, authorities, agencies and key service

providers. These organisations will need to be consulted to obtain their view and identify any

statutory requirements they consider relevant to the study. Advisory bodies will include, but not

be limited to;

» Environmental Protection Agency (EPA);

» Department of Natural Resources, Mines and Water (DNRMW); and

» Department of Primary Industry (Fisheries) (DPI(F)).

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Advisory bodies will be provided with copies of the final ToR for the EIS and sent copies of the

draft EIS for review. Written submissions should be invited from advisory bodies, with

submissions provided to be included in full in the EIS report.

Other Stakeholder, Community and Special Interest Groups

Relevant stakeholder, community and special interest groups should be identified and

consulted. Such groups include:

» Local authorities;

» Relevant local progress associations and other resident organisations;

» Indigenous and Native Title Claimant organisations;

» Relevant community groups such as ratepayers association, environmental and heritage

groups; and

» Service providers.

1.5.4 The General Community

The general community, who are not represented by established interest groups, are also

important stakeholders for the project. The consultation process should also include

appropriate mechanisms targeted at ensuring adequate involvement of the general community

booth in the study are and in the broader Queensland region as appropriate.

1.6 Project Approvals

This section should explain the legislation and policies controlling the approvals process.

Triggers for the application of each of these should be discussed and relevant approval

requirements should be identified.

1.6.1 Relevant legislation and policy requirements

The EIS should identify all the approvals and licenses that will need to be obtained for the HDS3

Project. This should include necessary licenses, planning and environmental approvals

including approval requirements under the Commonwealth Environment Protection and

Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, Queensland State Development and Public Works

Organisation Act 1971, Integrated Planning Act 1997 (including the Vegetation Management Act

1995, Environmental Protection Act 1994, Water Act 2000, Fisheries Act 1995), Native Title Act

1993, Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2003, Nature Conservation Act 1993, Land Act 1994,

Transport Infrastructure Act 1994 and Acquisition of Land Act 1967 and other legislation.

Approval and license requirements will need to cover all aspects associated with raising of the

dam, including any environmentally relevant activities as defined under the Environmental

Protection Act 1994. These will need to be identified early in the EIS process.

1.6.2 Planning Context

This section should discuss the project and provide an assessment of the project’s consistency

with relevant planning policy for the area and region. This should include an assessment of the

project’s consistency with the following:

41/15842/342881 Hinze Dam Stage 3

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» the GCCC local planning scheme. It should be noted that much of the project area is already

subject to a Community Infrastructure Designation and this will be extended to cover the

additional impoundment area and as such no Gold Coast City Council Planning Scheme

approvals are required within this area.

» planning controls, by-laws and policies relating to the study area and adjacent lands,

including the Water Resource Planning and Entitlements;

» details of all licences, planning and environmental approvals required;

» regional strategies or plans (such as the South East Queensland Regional Plan) that relate

to the area or proposal (these include those that are in preparation); and

» relationship to other significant developments (existing or proposed) in the study area or

surrounding area.

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2. Project Need and Alternatives

2.1 Need for the Project

This section should discuss justification and need for the project in context of regional, State

and national context. This section will relate to the flood mitigation requirements and the Gold

Coast Water Futures need for additional water resources. Particular reference should be made

to the environmental, economic and social costs and benefits.

2.2 Relationship to other Projects

This section should also describe how the project relates to any other water infrastructure

projects including the strategies outlined in the Queensland Regional Water Supply Strategy

(SEQRWSS).

2.3 Alternatives

This section should also describe all feasible alternatives that have been investigated, as well as

the option of taking no action i.e. of not upgrading the dam. Sufficient detail should be provided

to establish an understanding of the reasons for preferring certain options and rejecting others.

The discussion should include:

» A discussion of the consequences of not proceeding with the project;

» Identification of feasible alternatives, including:

– Provision of flood mitigation for the lower Nerang River; and

– Alternative water supply scenarios as identified in the GCCC Water Future report.

» Discussion of the methodology adopted too discern between feasible options. The

alternative options should be discussed in sufficient detail to enable an understanding of the

reasons for preferring certain options and courses of action and rejecting others.

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3. Description of the Project

The purpose of this section is to provide a description of the Project through its lifetime of

construction, operation and maintenance stages.

3.1 Location and General Description

The project should be described in the local, regional and national context. Maps at suitable

scales should be provided showing the precise location of the project area, the location and

boundaries of the project footprint, location and boundaries of land tenures. The following

should be addressed:

» Project area description - The overall project area should be described, including upstream

and downstream natural and anthropogenic environments of the Hinze Dam and Nerang

River Catchments.

» Current structure and facilities - The current structures and facilities at and around Hinze

Dam and upstream locations should be described.

» Construction footprint - The area to be affected by the construction and operation of the dam

should be described in detail including details of the area to be directly affected such as the

areas to be inundated, quarries, construction sites, road upgrades, areas to be cleared, land

requirements for ancillary facilities and infrastructure and recreational facilities.

3.2 Proposed Works

A brief description of the proposed works for the Project should be provided.

3.3 Inundation Areas

A description to the various inundations areas should be provided along with maps at an

appropriate scale. The frequency and length of probable inundations should also be provided.

3.4 Construction Methodology

The extent and nature of the Project's construction phase should be described, including

proposed construction methodology, construction staging (if proposed), type and methods of

construction to be used, location of construction site office, quarrying requirements and the

construction equipment to be used. Locations for equipment storage during construction, and

logistics for moving equipment should be outlined. The volume and source of proposed general

construction materials should be clearly identified along with suitable access routes.

The following should be addressed:

3.4.1 Construction Materials

This section should outline all construction materials and quantities required for the raising of

the dam wall and likely quarry sources.

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3.4.2 Transport and Access

This section should describe the methods for the transport of construction equipment, quarry

materials, wastes and personnel during both the construction and operational phases of the

Project. The description should address the use of existing facilities and all requirements for the

construction, upgrading or relocation of any transport related infrastructure.

3.4.3 Employment

This section should provide details on the employment requirements and skills base of the

required workforce for both the construction and operations phases of the Project.

3.5 Quarry Management

This section should outline all key issues for the commissioning, operation and

decommissioning of quarries used for the project. Issues to be highlighted include vegetation

clearing, stormwater discharge, noise and vibrations, dust control, safety and rehabilitation

requirements.

3.6 Auxiliary Infrastructure Requirements

This section should provide descriptions of requirements for constructing, upgrading or

relocating all auxiliary infrastructure in the vicinity of the project area. The matters to be

considered include roads, bridges, tracks and pathways, power lines and recreational facilities.

3.7 Water Supply Operations

The EIS should provide information on how the dam will remain operational for water supply

during the construction period.

3.8 Erosion Control

A brief overview should be provided of the proposed erosion control and stormwater drainage

systems to ensure water quality within the impoundment remains acceptable during

construction.

3.9 Waste Management

This section should provide a brief overview of the waste management requirements of the

project. Full details on Waste Management should be provided in Section 4.11.

3.10 Operations

The nature of operational requirements for the Project should be briefly described.

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4. Environmental Values and Management of

Impacts

This section should provide information on the physical, biological social and economic

environment in the vicinity Hinze Dam (such as land, water, nature conservation, cultural

heritage, social and economic, air, noise, waste, transport and traffic and hazards and risk).

Aspects of the environment should be described to the extent necessary for the assessment of

potential impacts of the Project. Baseline information from relevant studies should be used and

referenced where appropriate. Any relevant studies undertaken and commitments given in

relation to previous studies should be identified and assessed for their relationships to the

Project.

The functions of this section are to:

» Describe existing environmental values of the area that may be affected by the proposal;

» Describe potential adverse and beneficial impacts of the proposal on the identified

environmental values;

» Outline cumulative impacts on environment values;

» Present environmental protection objectives and the standards and measurable indicators to

be achieved; and

» Examine viable strategies for managing impacts.

Environmental protection objectives may be derived from legislative and planning requirements

which apply to the Project including Commonwealth strategies, State planning policies, local

authority strategic plans, environmental protection policies under the Environmental Protection

Act 1994, and any catchment management plans prepared by local water boards or land care

groups. Special attention should be given to those mitigation strategies designed to protect the

values of any sensitive areas and any identified ecosystems of high conservation value within

the area of possible proposal impact.

It is recommended that the EIS follow the heading structure shown below. The mitigation

measures, monitoring programs, etc., identified in this section of the EIS should be used to

develop the Environmental Management Plans for the project (see Section 5).

4.1 Land

4.1.1 Description of Environmental Values

This section describes the existing environment values of the land area that may be affected by

the Project, including areas to be inundated, quarries and construction areas.

Topography and Geomorphology

Maps should be provided locating the Project in both regional and local contexts. The

topography of the proposal site should be detailed with contours at suitable increments, shown

with respect to Australian Height Datum (AHD). Significant features of the locality should be

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included on the maps. Such features would include any locations subsequently referred to in the

EIS (e.g. sensitive locations, significant environmental features) that are not included on other

maps for this section. Commentary on the maps should be provided highlighting the significant

topographical features.

Geology and Soils

The EIS should provide a description and maps of the geology of the Project area and discuss

the current dam wall foundations and any geological limitation in raising the wall. The

availability and suitability of locations in the vicinity of the impoundment for quarry material is

also to be discussed.

Soils should be mapped at a suitable scale and described according to the Australian Soil and

Land Survey Field Handbook (Gunn et al 1988 and McDonald et al, 1990) using the Australian

Soil Classification (Isbell, 1996). An appraisal of the depth and quality of useable soil should be

undertaken. Acid sulphate soil studies are not required for the project.

Land use and Infrastructure

The EIS should provide a description of current land uses, including Native Title issues, in the

proposal area, with particular mention of land with special purposes. Maps at suitable scales

showing existing land uses and tenures, reserves, roads and road reserves, and the proposed

inundation areas should be provided for the entire area that could be affected by the Project.

Also indicate locations of gas and water pipelines, power lines and any other easements. The

maps should identify locations of conservation value, existing dwellings and recreational areas,

and the zoning of all affected lands according to any existing town or strategic plan.

Identify lots within the proposed route listed on the Environmental Protection Agency's

Environmental Management Register/Contaminated Lands Register.

All existing infrastructure at the existing dam wall and any to be affected by the project both

upstream and downstream of the impoundment should be identified and locations indicated on

a suitably scaled map.

Sensitive Environmental Areas

The EIS should identify all sensitive environmental areas that are proximal to the proposal or

could be affected, directly and indirectly, by the proposal. In particular, the EIS should indicate

if the land affected by the proposal is, or is likely, to become part of the protected area estate, or

is subject to any treaty. Consideration should be given to national parks, conservation parks,

declared fish habitat areas, wilderness areas, aquatic reserves, heritage/historic areas or items,

national estates, world heritage listings and sites covered by international treaties or

agreements (e.g. Ramsar, JAMBA, CAMBA), areas of cultural significance and scientific

reserves.

Landscape and Visual Amenity

This section should describe existing landscape character and features, panoramas and views

for the Project area, in particular from the existing dam wall and recreational areas. Information

in the form of maps, sections, elevations and photographs is to be used, particularly where

addressing the following issues:

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» major views, view sheds, existing viewing outlooks, ridgelines and other features contributing

to the amenity of the area, including assessment from private residences in the affected area

along the route;

» focal points, landmarks (built form or topography), gateways associated with project site and

immediate surrounding areas, waterways, and other features contributing to the visual

quality of the area and the project site; and

» character of the local and surrounding areas including character of built form (scale, form,

materials and colours) and vegetation (natural and cultural vegetation) directional signage

and land use.

4.1.2 Potential Impacts and Mitigation Measures

This section should describe the potential for the construction and operation of the Project to

change the existing and potential uses of the current impoundment area and adjacent areas,

and the measures to minimise these impacts.

Land Resources and Infrastructure

» Discuss the Project in the context of major topographic features and any measures taken to

avoid or minimise impact to such (if required).

» The objectives to be used for the Project in re-contouring and landscaping, especially any

quarries and recreational areas should be described. Consideration should be given to the

use of threatened plant species during any landscaping and revegetation.

Land Use and Tenure

» The potential for the construction and operation of the Project to change existing and

potential land uses of the proposal site and adjacent areas should be detailed.

» The potential environmental harm caused by the proposal on the adjacent areas currently

used for urban development, recreation, tourism, other business and the implications of the

proposal for future developments in the impact area including constraints on surrounding

land uses should be described.

» Outline incompatible land uses, whether existing or potential, adjacent to all aspects of the

project, including essential and proposed ancillary developments or activities and areas

directly or indirectly affected by the construction and operation of these activities should be

identified and measures to avoid unacceptable impacts defined.

» Indicate the range of measures to be taken to minimise the described impacts on

surrounding land uses.

Land Disturbance

» The methods to be used for quarry management, including blasting, stockpiles, stormwater

control, re-contouring, topsoil handling and revegetation, should be described.

Consideration should be given to the use of threatened plant species during any landscaping

and revegetation.

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» Information should be provided regarding decommissioning of any site/quarry, removal of

processing plant, rehabilitation of concrete footings and foundations, hard stand areas,

storage tanks and wharfage (including any potential for reuse of these facilities).

Soil Erosion

For all permanent and temporary landforms, possible erosion rates and management

techniques should be described. For each soil type identified, erosion potential (wind and water)

and erosion management techniques should be outlined. Methods proposed to prevent or

control erosion should be specified and should be developed to prevent soil loss in order to

maintain land capability/suitability, and to prevent significant degradation of local waterways by

suspended solids.

Methods proposed to prevent or control erosion should be specified and should be developed

with regard to (a) preventing soil loss in order to maintain land capability/suitability, and (b)

preventing significant degradation of the water quality within Hinze Dam by suspended solids.

Landscape and Visual Amenity

» Describe the potential impacts of the project landscape character of the site and the

surrounding area. Particular mention should be made of any changes to the broad-scale

topography and vegetation character of the area.

» This section should analyse and discuss the visual impact of the proposal on particular

panoramas and outlooks. It should be written in terms of the extent and significance of the

changed skyline as viewed from places of residence, work, and recreation, from road, cycle

and walkways, from the air and other known vantage points.

» Detail should be provided of all management options to be implemented and how these will

mitigate or avoid the identified impacts.

» Details should be provided of measures to be undertaken to mitigate or avoid the identified

impacts.

4.2 Climate

This section should describe the rainfall patterns (including magnitude and seasonal variability

of rainfall), air temperatures, humidity, wind (direction and speed) and any other special factors

(eg temperature inversions) that may affect air quality within the region of the proposal.

4.3 Water Resources

4.3.1 Description of Environmental Values

Surface Water and Waterways

A description should be given of the surface watercourses and their quality and quantity within

the Hinze Dam Catchment. Details provided should include a description of existing surface

drainage patterns, flows in major streams and wetlands. Also provide details of the likelihood of

flooding, history of flooding including extent, levels and frequency, and a description of present

and potential water uses downstream of the areas affected by the proposal. Flood studies

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should include a range of annual exceedance probabilities for affected waterways, where data

permits.

An assessment is required of existing water quality in the impoundment and waterways and

wetlands likely to be affected by the proposal. The basis for this assessment should be a

monitoring program, with sampling stations located upstream and downstream of the proposal.

Complementary stream-flow data should also be obtained from historical records (if available) to

aid in interpretation.

The water quality should be described, including seasonal variations or variations with flow

where applicable. A relevant range of physical, chemical and biological parameters should be

measured to gauge the environmental harm on any affected creek or wetland system.

A description of the environmental values of the surface waterways of the affected area should

be provided in terms of:

» values identified in the Environmental Protection (Water) Policy;

» sustainability, including both quality and quantity;

» physical integrity, fluvial processes and morphology of watercourses, including riparian zone

vegetation and form; and

» any Water Resource Plans (including reference to Environmental Flow Objectives outlined in

the Gold Coast Water Resources Plan), land and water management plans relevant to the

affected catchment.

Also provide details of the likelihood of flooding, history of flooding including extent, levels and

frequency, and a description of present and potential water uses downstream of the areas

affected by the proposal. Flood studies should include a range of annual exceedance

probabilities for affected waterways, where data permits.

Groundwater

The EIS should review the quality, quantity and significance of groundwater in the proposal

area.

4.3.2 Potential Impacts and Mitigation Measures

This section is to assess potential impacts on water resource environmental values identified in

the previous section. It will also define and describe the objectives and practical measures for

protecting or enhancing water resource environmental values, to describe how nominated

quantitative standards and indicators may be achieved, and how the achievement of the

objectives will be monitored, audited and managed.

Key water management strategy objectives include:

» protection of the integrity of the marine environment, and ultimately the Moreton Bay Marine

Park and Ramsar Wetland;

» maintenance of sufficient quantity and quality of surface waters to protect existing beneficial

downstream uses of those waters (including maintenance of in-stream biota and the littoral

zone); and

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» minimisation of impacts on flooding levels and frequencies both upstream and downstream

of the project.

Waterways and Water Quality

The potential impact of the Project on local waterways should be discussed.

Water quality characteristics discussed should be those appropriate to the downstream and

upstream water uses that may be affected. The Australian and New Zealand Environment and

Conservation Council (ANZECC, 2000) National Water Quality Management Strategy,

Australian Water Quality Guidelines for Fresh and Marine Waters and the Environmental

Protection (Water) Policy 1997 should be used as a reference for evaluating the effects of

various levels of contamination.

The potential impacts on water quality within the dam for potable supply as a result of

construction activities needs to be addressed and mitigation measures proposed.

Hydrology and Flooding

The potential environmental harm to the flow and the quality of surface waters, in particular the

current impoundment during the construction phase of the Project should be discussed, with

particular reference to their suitability for the current and potential downstream uses, including

the requirements of any affected riparian area, wetland, estuary, littoral zone, and any marine

and in-stream biological uses. The impacts of surface water flow on existing infrastructure

should be considered. Refer to the Environmental Protection (Water) Policy 1997 and Water

Act 2000.

The environmental flow regime downstream of the dam wall should be reviewed in detail to

balance the benefits of reduced flooding potential with the potential reduction of water quality in

the Nerang River. This should occur in the context of the Water Resource Plan that is being

prepared by the State Government for the Gold Coast region. Ongoing monitoring downstream

of the raised dam wall should be conducted to ensure that environmental flow objectives are

appropriate and are maintaining or improving aquatic ecosystem health in the Nerang River.

The hydrological impacts of the proposal should be assessed, particularly with regard to

scouring and erosion, and changes to flooding levels and frequencies both upstream and

downstream of the project. When flooding levels will be affected, modelling of afflux should be

provided and illustrated with maps. Assessment of impacts on the flow and the quality of

surface waters and effects on ecosystems should include an assessment of the likely effects on

mangrove and other estuarine habitats as a result of changes in flooding regimes.

Options for mitigation and the effectiveness of mitigation measures should be discussed with

particular reference to flooding, environmental flows, sediment and salinity to human health,

flora or fauna.

Ground Water

The EIS should include an assessment of the potential environmental harm caused by the

Project to local groundwater resources. An assessment of the potential to contaminate

groundwater resources and measures to prevent, mitigate and remediate such contamination

should be discussed.

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4.4 Terrestrial Flora

This section should detail the existing nature terrestrial flora and vegetation values of the

Project area in terms of:

» integrity of ecological processes, including habitats of rare and threatened species;

» biological diversity, including habitats of rare and threatened species;

» integrity of landscapes and places including wilderness and similar natural places; and

» threatened terrestrial ecosystems.

The EIS should identify any actions of the Project would be assessable development for the

purposes of the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Act 1999, Nature Conservation Act

1992 and Vegetation Management Act 1999.

The flora communities should be described, in particular those that are rare or threatened, in

environmentally sensitive localities, including waterways, wetlands, estuarine environment,

riparian zones, littoral zones, rainforest remnants, old growth indigenous forests and wilderness

areas. The description should include species lists.

Reference should be made to both State and Commonwealth legislation and policies on

threatened species and ecological communities including Ramsar wetlands and World Heritage

areas.

All surveys undertaken should be in accordance with best practice advice from the EPA and

should include consideration of seasonality, potential for occurrence of significant species, rarity

of species and the sensitivity of the species to disturbance.

This section should also discuss all likely direct and indirect environmental harm on flora and

vegetation communities.

4.4.1 Description of Environmental Values

The terrestrial vegetation communities within the Project area should be described at an

appropriate scale (i.e. 1:10,000) with mapping produced from aerial photographs and ground

truthing, showing the following:

» Location and extent of vegetation types using the EPA’s regional ecosystem type

descriptions in accordance with the Regional Ecosystem Description Database [REDD]

available at the EPA’s website.

» Location of species listed as Protected Plants under the Nature Conservation (Wildlife)

Regulation 1994 and subsequent amendments.

» Sensitive or important vegetation types should be highlighted and their value as habitat for

fauna and conservation of specific rare floral and faunal assemblages or community types

discussed.

Details of any riparian and rainforest vegetation, and their value for fauna habitat and

conservation of specific rare floral and faunal assemblages or community types, from both a

local and regional perspective, should be provided. Any special landscape values of any

natural vegetation communities should be described.

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Conduct targeted survey for legislatively or otherwise significant flora species listed under State

and Commonwealth legislation within areas to be permanently and periodically inundated.

Flora surveys should be undertaken within each defined vegetation community to be affected by

the project and methodology should be discussed with the EPA, the following should be used as

a guide:

» site data should be recorded in a form compatible with the Queensland Herbarium CORVEG

database;

» information should be recorded for community structure, assemblage and diversity;

» a complete list of plant species present at each site should be recorded;

» the relative abundance of plant species present should be recorded;

» any plant species of conservation, cultural, commercial or recreational significance should be

identified; and

» specimens of species listed as protected plants under the Nature Conservation (Wildlife)

Regulation 1994, other than common species, are to be submitted to the Queensland

Herbarium for identification and entry into the HERBRECS database.

Methodology used for flora surveys should be specified in the appendices to the EIS. Any

existing information should be revised and comments provided on whether the areas are

degraded, cleared or affected in ways that would affect their environmental value.

The occurrence of pest plants (weeds), particularly declared plants under the Land Protection

(Land and Stock Route Management) Act 2002 should be shown on a map at an appropriate

scale.

4.4.2 Potential Impacts and Mitigation Measures

» The area of each remnant regional ecosystem to be cleared or affected by the Project shall

be detailed.

» Development of mitigation plans to address anticipated impacts arising from land clearing

and temporary inundation, as required. This can include identification of suitable areas for

offsets (in consultation with Council and NRMW) to compensate vegetation loss and allow

for the maintenance or enhancement of habitat and corridor functions in the area. The

following should be considered in determining suitable offset locations:

– a cooperative approach between relevant government agencies be taken when

considering offsets;

– proximity to the cleared area;

– located within the same Local Government Area, or possibly an adjacent Local

Government Area;

– one large area, as opposed to several small areas;

– located adjacent to a network of protected areas;

– located within an area with a strategic conservation intent but currently having a low level

of protection;

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– located within Large Habitat Systems or Major Linkages in Gold Coast City Conservation

Strategy Plan; and

– located within a State Wildlife Corridor.

» Where required, outline rehabilitation strategies for any compensatory habitat areas and

provisions for protecting such areas.

» Discuss the ability of identified stands of vegetation to withstand any increased pressure

resulting from the Project. In relation to periodic inundation events the EIS should discuss

the likelihood of long-term impacts, such as dieback occurring.

» The future use (such as erosion control or habitat) or method of disposal of cleared

vegetation shall be detailed.

» Describe the methods to ensure rapid rehabilitation of disturbed areas following construction

including the species chosen for revegetation which should be consistent with the

surrounding associations. Include details of any post construction monitoring programs and

what benchmarks will be used for review of monitoring.

» Identify necessary permits/authorities required by the Project including Clearing Permits

under the Vegetation Management Act 1999.

» Describe methods of minimising the potential for the introduction and/or spread of weeds,

including:

– Identification of the origin of construction materials, machinery and equipment.

– The need for vehicle and machinery washdown and any other hygiene protocols.

– Staff/operator education programs.

» Include a weed management plan in the EMP, to be developed in consultation with local

government environmental officers, to cover construction, rehabilitation and operation

periods.

4.5 Terrestrial Fauna

This section should detail the existing nature conservation values of the Project area in terms of:

» integrity of ecological processes, including habitats of rare and threatened species; and

» biological diversity, including habitats of rare and threatened species.

The EIS should identify any actions of the Project that require an authority under the

Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Act 1999 and Nature Conservation Act 1992.

The fauna communities should be described, in particular those that are rare or threatened, in

environmentally sensitive localities, including waterways, wetlands, estuarine environment,

riparian zones, littoral zones, rainforest remnants, wilderness and habitat corridors. The

description should include species lists. The description should indicate any areas of state or

regional significance identified in an approved biodiversity planning assessment (BPA)

produced by the EPA.

Reference should be made to both State and Commonwealth legislation and policies on

threatened species and ecological communities including any species protected under bilateral

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agreements between Australia and Japan (JAMBA) and between Australia and China

(CAMBA).

All surveys undertaken should be in accordance with best practice advice from the EPA and

should include consideration of seasonality, potential for occurrence of significant species, rarity

of species and the sensitivity of the species to disturbance.

This section should also discuss all likely direct and indirect environmental harm on fauna

communities in terrestrial environments in sensitive areas.

4.5.1 Description of Environmental Values

The terrestrial, and riparian fauna occurring in the areas affected by the proposal should be

described, noting the broad distribution patterns in relation to vegetation, topography and

substrate. The description of the fauna present or likely to be present in the area should

include:

» species diversity (i.e. a species list) and abundance of animals, including amphibians, birds,

reptiles, mammals and bats;

» any species that are poorly known but suspected of being rare or threatened;

» habitat requirements and sensitivity to changes; including movement corridors and barriers

to movement;

» the existence of feral or exotic animals;

» existence of any rare, threatened or otherwise noteworthy species/communities in the study

area, including discussion of range, habitat, breeding, recruitment, feeding and movement

requirements, and current level of protection (e.g. any requirements of protected area

management plans);

» use of the area by migratory birds and terrestrial fauna;

» identify Glossy Black Cockatoo feeding tree locations, and provide measures to retain these

trees where possible.

» conduct habitat surveys and assess likelihood of threatened fauna occurring within or

utilising habitat within areas to be permanently or periodically inundated.

The EIS should contain results from surveys for species listed as threatened or migratory under

the State and Commonwealth legislation likely to occur within areas to be permanently and

periodically inundated. Surveys are to be conducted at the appropriate time of year when the

species is known to be present on the site, so that identification and location of these species is

optimal.

The EIS should indicate how well any affected populations are represented and protected

elsewhere in the subregion where Project occurs.

Site data should be recorded in a format compatible with EPA WildNet databases.

4.5.2 Potential Impacts and Mitigation Measures

» Identify any impact the proposal may have on terrestrial fauna, relevant wildlife habitat and

other fauna conservation values.

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» Identify suitable areas for compensatory habitat (in consultation with Council and NRMW)

that will maintain/enhance wildlife habitat and corridor functions in the area.

» Development of mitigation strategies to provide information on the following:

– provision of nest hollows;

– use of cleared vegetation for ground-level habitat;

– provision of fauna spotter during clearing actives;

– fauna management actions for quarry sites; and

– removal/retention of the known nesting trees/locations.

» Discuss the method of minimising the introduction/ongoing management of feral animals,

and other exotic fauna.

4.6 Aquatic Biology

4.6.1 Description of Environmental Values

This section should discuss aquatic values affected by the proposal, noting the patterns and

distribution in the dam impoundment, waterways and downstream associated freshwater and

estuarine environments. The description of the aquatic fauna and flora present or likely to be

present in the area should include:

» fish species, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, crustaceans and aquatic invertebrates

occurring in the waterways within the affected area, and downstream estuarine environment;

» any rare or threatened marine species in downstream environments;

» aquatic plants;

» aquatic and benthic substrate;

» habitat downstream of the project or potentially impacted due to changes in flooding regimes

on associated lacustrine and marine environments; and

» discussions of any critical migration/breeding requirements for native aquatic species.

Consultation with the Hinze Dam Fish Management Advisory Committee with respect to the

potential raising of the Dam and impact to stocked fish and fishing access to the dam should be

conducted as part of the EIS process.

The presence of the existing dam blocks passage of fish up and down stream and any project

involving a dam or dam raising requires an application to be made to Department of Primary

Industries for a Waterway Barrier Works Approval. DPI&F may require a fishway to be installed

on the dam or, in the event that it can be established that there is no benefit from providing fish

passage across the dam wall, a Fish Movement Exemption Notice may be issued. Discussions

with DPI&F on appropriate methodology for aquatic studies to determine the requirement for a

fish way should be undertaken prior to aquatic surveys being completed. .

4.6.2 Potential Impacts and Mitigation Measures

» Discuss the requirement or otherwise for a fishway to be constructed as part of the project.

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» Detail strategies for protecting the Moreton Bay Marine Park and Ramsar Wetland as a

result of changes in downstream flooding regimes.

» Any rare or threatened species should be described, and any obligations imposed by State

or Commonwealth legislation or policy or international treaty obligations (i.e. JAMBA,

CAMBA) should be discussed. Emphasis should be given to potential environmental harm

to downstream benthic and intertidal communities, seagrass beds and mangroves.

4.7 Cultural Heritage

4.7.1 Description of Environmental Values

This section should describe the existing cultural heritage values that may be affected by the

Project activities.

A cultural heritage study if required, will describe indigenous and non-indigenous cultural

heritage sites and places, and their values. Any such study must be conducted by an

appropriately qualified cultural heritage practitioner and must include the following:

» liaison with relevant indigenous community/communities concerning:

– places of significance to that community (including archaeological sites, natural sites,

story sites etc;

– appropriate community involvement in field surveys;

» any requirements by communities and /or informants relating to confidentiality of site data

must be highlighted. Non-indigenous communities may also have relevant information;

» a systematic survey of the proposed development area to locate and record indigenous and

non-indigenous cultural heritage places;

» significant assessment of any cultural heritage sites/places located;

» the impact of the proposed development on cultural heritage values;

» a report of work done which includes background research, relevant environmental data and

methodology, as well as results of field surveys, significance assessment and

recommendations; and

» a permit to conduct the research and survey will be required under the provisions of the

Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2003 and/or the Queensland Heritage Act 1992.

4.7.2 Potential Impacts and Mitigation Measures

This section defines and describes the objectives and practical measures for protecting or

enhancing cultural heritage environmental values, describes how nominated quantitative

standards and indicators may be achieved for cultural heritage management, and how the

achievement of the objectives will be monitored, audited and managed.

The environmental harm to cultural heritage values in the vicinity of the project should be

managed under a cultural heritage management plan (CHMP) developed specifically for the

project. The CHMP will provide a process for the management of cultural heritage places both

identified and sub-surface at the project sites. It is usual practice for the CHMP to be based on

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information contained in archaeological and/or anthropological reports on the survey area and

cultural reports and/or information from affiliated traditional owners. The CHMP should address

and include the following:

» a process for including Aboriginal/Torres Strait islander people associated with the

development areas in protection and management of indigenous cultural heritage;

» processes for mitigation, management and protection of identified cultural heritage places

and material in the Project area, including associated infrastructure developments;

» cultural awareness training or programs for project staff; and

» a conflict resolution process.

The development of the CHMP should be negotiated with the lead agency, the Department of

Natural Resources and Mines, and all stakeholder representatives, and where there is a role or

responsibility identified for the Environmental Protection Agency, such as managing the EIS

process under the EP Act, it should be party to the discussions.

Any collection of artefact material as part of a mitigation strategy will need to be done by an

appropriately qualified cultural heritage practitioner holding a permit under provisions of the

Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2003. The EPA regional manager should be consulted for the

provision of general advice including the appropriate conduct of cultural heritage surveys and

the necessary permits.

4.8 Air Environment

4.8.1 Description of Environmental Values

This section should describe the existing air environment, which may be affected by the

proposal in the context of environmental values as defined by the Environmental Protection Act

1994 and Environmental Protection (Air) Policy.

4.8.2 Potential Impacts and Mitigation Measures

The following air quality issues should be considered:

» Impacts of dust generation from construction activities, especially from blasting activities

associated with quarries and in close proximity to residences.

» Identification of climatic patterns that could affect dust generation and movement.

» Predicted changes to existing air quality from vehicle emissions and dust generation during

construction.

» Propose any amelioration or mitigation measures for each identified impact relating to dust

generation vehicle, and equipment emissions, and gaseous emissions.

4.8.3 Greenhouse Gas Impacts

This section of the EIS should:

» provide an inventory of projected annual emissions for each relevant greenhouse gas, with

total emissions expressed in ‘CO 2 equivalent’ terms;

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» briefly describe method(s) by which estimates were made.

The Australian Greenhouse Office Factors and Methods Workbook (available via the internet)

can be used as a reference source for emission estimates and supplemented by other sources

where practicable and appropriate.

4.9 Noise and Vibration

4.9.1 Description of Environmental Values

This section describes the existing environment values that may be affected by noise and

vibration from the proposal.

Project activities, especially in regards to quarry operation could adversely impact on noise and

vibration at proximal sensitive receptors and baseline monitoring should be undertaken at a

selection of sensitive sites potentially affected by the proposal. Noise sensitive places are

defined in the Environmental Protection (Noise) Policy 1997. The locations of sensitive sites

should be identified on a map at a suitable scale. The results of any baseline monitoring of

noise and vibration in the proposed vicinity of the proposal should be described.

Comment should be provided on any current activities near the proposal area that may cause a

background level of ground vibration (for example: major roads, quarrying activities, etc.).

4.9.2 Potential Impacts and Mitigation Measures

» The potential environmental harm of noise at all potentially sensitive places, in particular any

places of work or residence, should be quantified and compared with objectives, standards

to be achieved and measurable indicators. This should also include environmental harm on

terrestrial animals.

» Proposals to minimise or eliminate these effects should be provided, including details of any

screening, lining, enclosing or mounding of construction sites, or timing schedules for

construction that would minimise environmental harm and environmental nuisance from

noise and vibration.

» Assessment should be made of the potential emission of low-frequency noise (noise with

components below 200Hz) from major construction equipment. If necessary, measures

should be described for reducing the intensity of these components.

» A discussion should be supplied on blasting which might cause ground vibration or fly rock

on, or adjacent to, the site. The magnitude, duration and frequency of any vibration should

be discussed.

» A discussion should be provided of measures to prevent or minimise environmental nuisance

and harm. Blasting noise and vibration limits are provided in section 61 of the Environmental

Protection Regulation 1998. Reference should also be made to the EPA Guideline: Noise

and vibration from blasting.

4.10 Socio-Economic Environment

This section describes the existing social values that may be affected by the proposal.

41/15842/342881 Hinze Dam Stage 3

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4.10.1 Description of Environmental Values

The social amenity and use of the proposal area and adjacent areas for recreational, fishing,

sporting, educational or residential purposes should be described. Consideration should be

given to:

» community infrastructure and services, access and mobility;

» population and demographics of the affected community;

» local community values, vitality and lifestyles;

» recreational, cultural, leisure and sporting facilities and activities in relation to the affected

area;

» local businesses in relation to the affected area, including the kiosk and Cedar Lake Country

Resort;

» educational and community facilities;

» sports clubs and groups in the area;

» current property values;

» number of properties and owners directly affected by the project; and

» properties, businesses and residencies indirectly affected by the Project both upstream and

downstream.

4.10.2 Potential Impacts and Mitigation Measures

The social impact assessment of the project should consider the information gathered in the

community consultation program and the analysis of the existing socio-economic environment,

and describe the project’s impact, both beneficial and adverse, on the local community. The

impacts of the project on local and regional residents, community services and recreational

activities are to be analysed and discussed. The nature and extent of the community

consultation program are to be described and a summary of the results incorporated in the EIS.

The EIS should address the following matters:

» An assessment of impacts on local residents, current land uses and existing lifestyles and

enterprises.

» An assessment of downstream flooding on residential, commercial and community facilities,

and anticipated reduction in flooding potential and associated reduction in flood damage

costs.

» An assessment of the inundation of existing community and recreational facilities during

construction and discussion on the relocation/re-establishment of recreational and sporting

facilities and any community requirements identified during the community consultation

process.

» Discussion on the anticipated increased supply and reliability of water within the Gold Coast

region and flow on affects.

» The EIS should address impacts of both construction and operational workforces and

associated contractors on housing demand, community services and community cohesion.

41/15842/342881 Hinze Dam Stage 3

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The capability of the existing housing stock, including rental accommodation, to meet any

additional demands created by the project is to be discussed.

» The assessment of impacts should take account of relevant demographic, social, cultural

and economic profiles.

» Include an assessment of impacts on existing local residents’ values and aspirations.

» For the construction and operational phases of the development, describe the effects of the

proposal on local and regional residents, including flooding, land acquisition and road

relocation issues and property valuation and marketability, community services and

recreational activities .

» Discuss the potential environmental harm on the amenity of adjacent areas used for forestry,

recreation, education, aesthetics, or scientific or residential purposes.

For identified impacts to social values, suggest mitigation and enhancement strategies and

facilitate initial negotiations towards acceptance of these strategies. Practical monitoring

regimes should also be recommended.

4.11 Waste Management

4.11.1 Waste Generation

» Provide an inventory of all wastes to be generated by the Project during construction and

operation phases.

» Any waste treatment process involved, including site drainage and erosion controls.

» Hazardous materials to be stored and/or used on-site, provide their Material Safety Data

Sheets and environmental toxicity data and biodegradability for raw materials and final

products.

4.11.2 Waste Management

Waste management strategies should incorporate measures to avoid waste generation where

possible. Discuss waste management strategies, including reduction, reuse, recycling, storage,

transport and disposal of waste, including measures to minimise attraction of vermin, insects

and pests.

The following guidelines and standards should be considered:

» the Environmental Protection (Waste Management) Policy 2000, Environmental Protection

(Waste Management) Regulation 2000 and any recent or proposed amendments that

incorporate recommendations of the National Environment Protection Measures; and

» EPA Waste Tracking Guideline (2000).

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4.12 Traffic Management

4.12.1 Construction Related Impacts

This section should assess traffic management during the construction phase of the project,

including:

» assessment of existing traffic levels and pattern in the area and

» volumes, tonnage, and composition of construction inputs.

Undertake a traffic impact assessment to determine the likely impacts and mitigation strategies

of increased traffic on local road networks with reference to:

» road safety issues on public roads, including danger from large transport vehicles, safe

access to construction sites (e.g. consideration of the need for turning lanes, improved sight

lines, waiting areas, off-road parking locations).

» reduced efficiency of traffic flows on roads and intersections along key routes, during

construction.

» additional wear/reduced life of pavements requiring additional or accelerated rehabilitation

and maintenance if any.

Findings of studies and assessments should be incorporated into a road management strategy

including Transport and Traffic Management Plans.

4.12.2 Road Realignment

This section should assess the requirement for road upgrades to provide flood immunity

including potential to isolate communities (such as Springbrook) and identify social,

environmental and economic considerations with road upgrade and any necessary land

acquisitions.

4.13 Hazard and Risk

This section describes the potential hazards and risk that may be associated with the Project

during the construction and operation. A preliminary risk assessment for all components of the

Project (dam wall, quarries, clearing, downstream flooding) shall be undertaken as part of the

EIS process in accordance with appropriate parts of AS/NZS Risk Management Standard

4360:1999.

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Draft Terms of Reference

5. Environmental Management Plan

An Environmental Management Plan (EMP) should be provided detailing the measures to be

adopted to address identified impacts during the construction, operation and maintenance

phased of the Project. The EMP should detail:

» Environmental element – the environmental aspect requiring management consideration.

» Potential impacts – potential impacts identified in the EIS.

» Performance objective – the target or strategy to be achieved through management.

» Management actions – the actions to be undertaken to achieve the performance objective,

including any necessary approvals, applications and consultation.

» Performance indicators – criteria against which the implementation of the actions and the

level of achievement of the performance objectives will be measured.

» Monitoring – process of measuring actual performances.

» Responsibility – assign responsibility for carrying out each action to a relevant

person/organisation.

» Reporting – the process and responsibility for reporting monitoring results.

» Corrective action – the action to be implemented in the case of non-compliance and the

person/organisation responsible for action.

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6. Conclusions and Recommendations

The EIS should make conclusions and recommendations with respect to the Project, based on

the studies presented, the Environmental Management Plans and conformity of the proposal

with ESD policy. This should include reference to proponent commitments for the management

and operation of the project.

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Draft Terms of Reference

7. References

References should be presented in a consistent and recognised format.

41/15842/342881 Hinze Dam Stage 3

Draft Terms of Reference

8. Recommended Appendices

Items that should be located in the Appendices may include:

» Term of Reference;

» Statutory Permits and Development Approvals;

» Site Plans;

» Community Consultation Report;

» Project Team Qualifications and Experience; and

» Research Reports and Specialist Studies.

41/15842/342881 Hinze Dam Stage 3

Draft Terms of Reference

GHD Pty Ltd ABN 39 008 488 373

201 Charlotte Street Brisbane Qld 4000

GPO Box 668 Brisbane Qld 4001 Australia

T: (07) 3316 3000 F: (07) 3316 3333 E: bnemail@ghd.com.au

This document is and shall remain the property of GHD Pty Ltd. The document may only be used for the

purposes for which it was commissioned and in accordance with the Terms of Engagement for the

commission. Unauthorised use of this document in any form whatsoever is prohibited.

Document Status

Rev

No.

Author

Reviewer

Approved for Issue

Name Signature Name Signature Date

1 M. Toner L. Eykamp B. Skarratt

0 L. Eykamp B. Skarratt B. Skarratt 29/08/06

41/15842/342881 Hinze Dam Stage 3

Draft Terms of Reference

Hinze Dam Stage 3

Appendix D

Hinze Dam Stage 3

Appendix D Glossary of Terms

The following glossary defines key terms that are referred to as part of the Hinze Dam Stage 3 upgrade:

Aboriginal Cultural

Heritage Act

Aboriginal

Cultural Heritage

Management Plan

(CHMP)

Australian Height

Datum (AHD)

Average Recurrence

Interval (ARI)

Buffer Storage

Easement

Endangered species

Environment

Environmental Flows

Environmental

Impact Assessment

(EIA)

The Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2003 commenced on 16 April 2004. The Act:

n Introduces substantial penalties for new offences dealing with harming, excavating, relocating

or taking away Aboriginal cultural heritage;

n Requires cultural heritage management plans (CHMP) to be negotiated and approved under the

Act in accordance with procedures under the Act in certain limited circumstances; and

Imposes a cultural heritage duty of care requiring the taking of all reasonable and practicable

measures to ensure an activity does not harm Aboriginal cultural heritage.

A CHMP is a document providing for how activities for a project are to be managed for their

impact on Aboriginal cultural heritage. A CHMP will be required under the Aboriginal Cultural

Heritage Act if a project requires an environmental impact statement and an approval/permit/

licence/authority etc is required. Where a CHMP is not a mandatory requirement under the Act,

and there is a reasonably strong prospect of Aboriginal cultural heritage being encountered, a

CHMP may also be used as a comprehensive means by which to demonstrate compliance with

the duty of care requirements under the Act.

National reference for the relative height measurement in Australia.

The average or expected value of the period between exceedances of a given variable.

An allocated volume of water, which ensures the dam does not drop below a certain level, even

during the worst drought in history. This level is the lowest pumping level available.

A right held by the Proponent to make use of the land of another, for example, for the installation

and operation of a pipeline. Also referred to as a right of way.

Species in serious risk of disappearing from the wild state within one or two decades if present

land use and other causal factors continue to operate.

The term ‘environment’ is used in the broadest sense to include physical, biological, cultural and

sociological aspects.

The minimum amount of water flow needed in a watercourse to avoid significant degradation of

the natural aquatic and riparian ecosystems.

In essence, an EIA is an assessment process typically involving the setting of terms of reference

by a government department, followed by the proponent undertaking studies to address the

Terms of Reference, leading to the preparation of a document discussing how the Terms of

Reference have been addressed, describing the development in sufficient detail to establish likely

environmental impacts, identifying beneficial and adverse environmental impacts and stating

the way any adverse environmental impacts may be mitigated. An EIA process usually requires

the document to be advertised for public comment and the proponent to take into account

submissions in finalising the document. The requirement to undertaken an EIA may be triggered

under legislation, including the Environment Protection & Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

(Cth) and Part 7A of the Integrated Planning Act 1999.

Appreciably the Terms of Reference for an EIA are often exhaustive in order to fully identify,

analyse and manage the environmental impact of any proposed action. As a result, the technical

studies and reporting that supports an EIA is very detailed in nature and often requires a range of

technical experts to investigate components of the overall development. This adds considerable

complexity, time and risk to any project.

Environmental

Protection and

Biodiversity

Conservation (EPBC)

Act

EPBC Act Controlled

Action

EPBC Act

Uncontrolled Action

EPBC Act Referral

Hinze Dam Stage 2

(Existing Situation)

Hinze Dam Stage 3

(Original Design)

Hinze Dam Stage 3

(Base Case provided

to the Alliance)

Material Change

of Use (Impact

Assessment)

The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act 1999 is Commonwealth

Government legislation that is administered by the Commonwealth Department of Environment

and Heritage (DEH). The EPBC Act provides a national framework for environment protection

through a focus on protecting matters of national environmental significance and on the

conservation of Australia’s biodiversity.

To identify whether certain activities or areas are affected by such legislation, the proposed

flood storage and water storage options for Hinze Dam will need to be referred to the DEH for

assessment against the EPBC Act to determine their level of environmental impact. In broad

terms, all activities referred to the DEH fall into 2 categories being “controlled” or “un-controlled”

actions (these terms are explained in further detail in the glossary of terms). “Controlled” actions

require a detailed Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) to be prepared and subsequent

approval to be issued by the DEH for the action to occur, whereas “uncontrolled” actions are

considered unlikely to have an impact on a matter of national environmental significance.

Preliminary advice suggests that raising the Hinze Dam for flood storage only is not likely to

be considered a “controlled” action and therefore no EIA or approval of the DEH is required.

However, any proposal to raise the Hinze Dam for Water Supply which provides for permanent

inundation of additional land is likely to be determined a “controlled” action and therefore

involve a detailed EIS and lengthy approval process. Of note, if the activity is determined to be a

“controlled” action it will have a ripple affect through other legislation as the Integrated Planning

Act (IPA) will trigger an EIA process as well which is administered by the Department Local

Government & Planning (DLGP) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will also require a

Cultural Heritage Management Plan to be prepared in accordance with the Cultural Heritage Act.

Accordingly, the DEH’s decision is critical as it has the potential to add considerable complexity,

risk and time to the project.

A proposed action (i.e. activity) that has, will have, or is likely to have a significant impact on a

matter of national environmental significance and, as such, requires assessment and approval

under the EPBC Act.

A proposed action (i.e. activity) that does not have, will not have or is unlikely to have a significant

impact on a matter of national environmental significance, with the result that assessment and

approval of the action is not required under the EPBC Act.

A person is required to refer a project to the Minister if the project may have a significant impact

on a matter protected under Part 3 of the EPBC Act. The matters protected under Part 3 of

the EPBC Act are: the “matters of national environmental significance”; the environment on

Commonwealth land; and the environment generally where the project is being taken by the

Commonwealth or a Commonwealth agency.

Current configuration of Hinze Dam (Described as existing situation or Base Case) – Completed in

1989 dam wall crest at 93.5mAHD Full Supply Level at 82.2mAHD.

The original stage 3 development studied by DAMCORP in 1985, in which the dam Full Supply

Level is positioned at 98.6mAHD and the dam crest is raised to 106mAHD. The DAMCORP

proposal to raise Hinze Dam 3 was for additional water supply purposes only.

An option recommended by the Gold Coast Waterfuture Advisory Committee (GCWFAC) to be

investigated further. This proposal was developed through flood mitigation investigations for the

Nerang River system catchment. This Option involves raising Hinze Dam wall to its Stage 3 height

(106mAHD) and allocating part of the increased water supply storage from the stage 2 to 3

raising for flood mitigation.

These applications are assessed against the whole Planning Scheme and as such require detailed

technical reports and a rigorous assessment process by Council particularly in regard to potential

environmental impacts. Such applications require public notification, which adds considerable

time to the assessment process and uncertainty as third party appeal rights exist in relation to

Council’s decision.

Hinze Dam Stage 3

Material Change

of Use (Code

Assessment)

Native Title Act

Native Title “future

act”

Native Title Higher

Order “future act”

Provisions

Native Title Lower

Order “future act”

Provisions

Probable Maximum

Flood (PMF)

Probable Maximum

Precipitation (PMP)

Q100

Remnant Vegetation

These applications are assessed against relevant Codes contained in the Planning Scheme and

provided compliance with the Codes is demonstrated such applications cannot be refused by

Council as the associated type of land use is considered to be generally consistent with the intent

of the given Domain. Also, these applications do not involve public notification and are not

exposed to third party appeal rights.

The Native Title Act 1993 is Commonwealth legislation. Its State counterpart is the Native

Title (Queensland) Act 1993. The Acts provide for the protection of native title rights from

extinguishment and deal with the consequences of recognition of native title for other rights

and interests in land. The Acts set out a number of “future act” provisions which are essentially

authorisation provisions for the granting of approvals and tenure by the State where native title

may be affected by the grant.

The term “future act” is defined in the Native Title Act 1993. A “future act” is essentially an

act, which affects native title (or would affect native title if it were valid) and: consists of the

making, amendment or repeal of legislation which takes place on or after 1 July 1993 (the date

of the Mabo decision); or is any other act taking place on or after 1 January 2004 (the date of

commencement of the Native Title Act 1993). An act will “affect” native title if it extinguishes

the native title rights and interests or if it is otherwise wholly or partly inconsistent with their

continued existence, enjoyment or exercise. The Native Title Act 1993 identifies a variety of

“future acts” and prescribes criteria pursuant to which the “future acts” are to be carried out if

they are to be valid. “Future acts” are usually the grants of a permit or approval in respect of land

and waters where native title may continue to exist.

This is not a term used in the Native Title Act 1993 but is used as a convenient description of

certain types of “future act” provisions in the Act. For present purposes, a Higher Order future act

Provision is a provision in the Native Title Act which provides that, in order for the identified act to

be valid, native title rights and interests must be compulsorily acquired or surrendered by entering

into an Indigenous Land Use Agreement which provides that the Traditional Owners consent to

the future act on agreed terms. A Higher Order future act Provision for example would need to be

applied to facilitate the granting of freehold title over land.

Similarly, a Lower Order “future act” Provision is not a term defined in the Native Tile Act 1993.

For present purposes it is a provision in the Native Title Act, which deems certain future acts

to be valid and applies what is called the non-extinguishment principle. This means that native

title rights and interests are not extinguished by the doing of the act but merely suppressed for

the duration of the act. In circumstances where a Lower Order future act Provision applies the

Traditional Owners will be entitled to compensation by the State but must first prove the existence

of native title rights and demonstrate that they have been adversely affected. These future act

provisions require the State to provide to the Traditional Owners an opportunity to comment on

the proposed act but do not amount to a right of veto. An example of a Lower Order future act

Provision is section 24HA of the Native Title Act 1993 which provides that an act consisting of the

grant of an approval, under legislation, that relates to the management or regulation of water will

be valid and that the non extinguishment principle will apply.

The flood resulting from PMP and, where applicable, snow melt, coupled with the worst floodproducing

catchment conditions that can be realistically expected in the prevailing meteorological

conditions.

The theoretical greatest depth of precipitation for a given duration that is physically possible over

a particular catchment area.

Q100 refers to a flow recurrence interval; Q100 is the flow that occurs, on the average, only once

in 100 years (also known as the 1% frequency, or recurrence, event). The recurrence interval

is a statistical average, not a fixed number of years. Q10, Q25, and Q100 are common design

standards for flood control projects.

Remnant vegetation is defined as vegetation where the predominant stratum of the vegetation is

still intact, i.e. has at least 50% of the cover and more than 70% of the height, and is composed

of species characteristic of the vegetation’s undisturbed predominant stratum. This definition

includes all woody structural formations as well as those dominated by shrubs, grasses and other

life forms (Source EPA).

Sluice Gates

Self Assessable

Development

Spillway

Target Outturn Cost

(TOC)

Temporary Use

Sluice gates are structures that control gravity induced flow of liquid through an opening.

The gates act as a switch to turn flow on or off, or can be used to regulate it. Sluice gates

are comprised of two major parts: the frame and the slide. The slide, when fully inserted into

the frame, blocks the flow of liquid. As the slide is raised it uncovers the area of the opening,

releasing the liquid. In the case of flood mitigation the sluice gates are used to release water from

the reservoir / dam (i.e. when water must be moved quickly from the reservoir to maintain flood

storage volume).

Provided all acceptable solutions in the relevant Planning Scheme codes are complied with, such

land uses do not require a formal approval to be issued by Council.

A Weir, Channel, conduit, tunnel, gate or other structure designed to permit discharges from the

dam / reservoir when pondage levels rise above full supply level.

Total estimated value of Direct Project Costs to deliver the works required to complete the raising

of Hinze Dam as specified in the Project Alliance Agreement.

The Gold Coast Planning Scheme defines a “temporary use” as follows: “a use that is irregular

or infrequent that does not require the construction of permanent building, the installation of

permanent infrastructure or services, or works such as vegetation clearing or other operational

work. A temporary use must not occur for more than 28 days in any one calendar year.”

Volume Kilolitre (kL) = 1,000 Litres or 1 cubic metre Megalitre (ML) = 1,000,000 Litres Gigalitre (GL) =

1,000,000,000 Litres.

Water Entitlement

Yield (dam)

Water entitlement (under the Water Act 2000) means a water allocation, interim water allocation

or water licence. Approval given by the State to an Authority to take water. (granted under

section 121 or 122 of the Water Act 2000).

The annual average volume of water that can be taken from a dam, usually expressed as ML/day.

The yield of a storage is calculated as the volume of water that can be continuously withdrawn

from the storage without drawing the water level below an acceptable minimum level. That

minimum level for Hinze Dam is the top level of the Buffer Storage.

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