Scoping Report

EPURON PROJECTS PTY LTD
SCOPING REPORT
RICHMOND VALLEY SOLAR FARM
Scoping Report
Report No: 222027/REP
Rev: 001G
8 July 2022
Page
SCOPING REPORT
© Premise 2022
This report has been prepared by Premise Australia for Epuron Projects Pty Ltd; may only be used and relied
on by Epuron Projects Pty Ltd; must not be copied to, used by, or relied on by any persons other than Epuron
Projects Pty Ltd without the prior written consent of Premise. If Epuron Projects Pty Ltd wishes to provide this
Report to a third party recipient to use and rely upon, the recipient agrees: to acknowledge that the basis on
which this Report may be relied upon is consistent with the principles in this section of the Report; and to the
maximum extent permitted by law, Premise shall not have, and the recipient forever releases Premise from,
any liability to recipient for loss or damage howsoever in connection with, arising from or in the respect of
this Report whether such liability arises in contract, tort including negligence.
Document reference: C:\12dS\data\12dSynergy\222027 Rappville Solar

Farm_13293\Out\Reports\222027_REP_001G.docx
DOCUMENT AUTHORISATION
Revision Revision Date Report Details
A 27/08/21 Draft for client review
B 22/03/22 Update to report structure
C 01/04/22 Updates per client comments
D 04/04/22 Updates to figures
E 07/04/22 Updates per client comments
F 16/05/22 Updates per DPE RFI
G 08/07/22 Updates to Sections 5 and 6
Prepared By Reviewed By Authorised By
Hugh Mark David Walker
Shackcloth- Raikhman
Bertinetti
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CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................................................................1
1.1 OVERVIEW ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 1
1.2 APPLICANT ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 2
1.3 PLANNING FRAMEWORK........................................................................................................................................................... 2
1.4 REPORT STRUCTURE .................................................................................................................................................................... 3
2. STRATEGIC CONTEXT .............................................................................................................................3
2.1 POLICY ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 3
2.1.1 NSW ELECTRICITY INFRASTRUCTURE ROADMAP (DPIE 2020) ............................................................... 3
2.1.2 NORTH COAST REGIONAL PLAN 2036 (DPE 2016) ..................................................................................... 4
2.1.3 RICHMOND VALLEY LOCAL STRATEGIC PLANNING STATEMENT ........................................................ 4
2.1.4 RICHMOND VALLEY COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN ................................................................................ 5
2.2 LOCAL CONTEXT ........................................................................................................................................................................... 6
2.3 SITE DESCRIPTION ........................................................................................................................................................................ 8
2.3.1 OVERVIEW .................................................................................................................................................................... 8
2.3.2 ACCESS .......................................................................................................................................................................... 8
2.3.3 EXISTING IMPORVEMENTS .................................................................................................................................... 8
2.3.4 MINING .......................................................................................................................................................................... 8
2.3.5 HERITAGE .................................................................................................................................................................... 10
2.3.6 HYDROGEOLOGY ..................................................................................................................................................... 10
2.3.7 LAND RESOURCES ................................................................................................................................................... 17
2.3.8 LAND USE ................................................................................................................................................................... 17
2.3.9 VEGETATION AND BIODIVERSITY ..................................................................................................................... 17
2.3.10 BUSHFIRE .................................................................................................................................................................... 18
3. PROJECT DESCRIPTION ....................................................................................................................... 23
3.1 PROJECT OBJECTIVES ................................................................................................................................................................ 23
3.1.1 SOLAR FARM ............................................................................................................................................................. 23
3.1.2 BATTERY ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM (BESS) FACILITY ............................................................................. 24
3.1.3 GRID CONNECTION ................................................................................................................................................ 24
3.2 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT OVERVIEW ............................................................................................................................. 25
3.3 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT DETAILS .................................................................................................................................. 25
3.4 JUSTIFICATION FOR THE PREFERRED OPTION ............................................................................................................... 28
3.4.1 OPTION 1 .................................................................................................................................................................... 28
3.4.2 OPTION 2 .................................................................................................................................................................... 28
3.4.3 OPTION 3 .................................................................................................................................................................... 29
4. STATUTORY CONTEXT ........................................................................................................................ 29
5. ENGAGEMENT ...................................................................................................................................... 35
5.1 SCOPING STAGE CONSULTATION ....................................................................................................................................... 35
5.2 EIS CONSULTATION ................................................................................................................................................................... 45
6. PROPOSED ASSESSMENT OF IMPACTS ............................................................................................. 46
6.1 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................................................................... 46
6.2 SOCIAL IMPACT ........................................................................................................................................................................... 46
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6.2.1 GENERAL APPROACH ............................................................................................................................................ 47

6.2.2 SOCIAL BASELINE .................................................................................................................................................... 47
6.2.3 IMPACT IDENTIFICATION ..................................................................................................................................... 48
6.3 LAND USE ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 49
6.3.1 MINING ........................................................................................................................................................................ 49
6.3.2 OTHER USES .............................................................................................................................................................. 49
6.4 HERITAGE........................................................................................................................................................................................ 49
6.5 HYDROGEOLOGY ........................................................................................................................................................................ 50
6.6 VEGETATION AND BIODIVERSITY ......................................................................................................................................... 50
6.7 BUSHFIRE ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 57
6.8 ACCESS AND TRAFFIC ............................................................................................................................................................... 57
6.9 VISUAL IMPACT ............................................................................................................................................................................ 58
6.10 NOISE AND VIBRATION ........................................................................................................................................ 59
6.11 AIR QUALITY .............................................................................................................................................................. 60
6.12 WASTE .......................................................................................................................................................................... 60
6.13 HAZARD....................................................................................................................................................................... 60
6.14 CUMULATIVE IMPACT............................................................................................................................................ 61
7. REFERENCES ......................................................................................................................................... 61
FIGURES
Figure 1 – Regional Context ................................................................................................................................................................... 1
Figure 2 – Local Context .......................................................................................................................................................................... 7
Figure 3 – Site analysis ............................................................................................................................................................................. 9
Figure 4 – Heritage .................................................................................................................................................................................. 12
Figure 5 – Geology ................................................................................................................................................................................... 13
Figure 6 – Soil landscapes ..................................................................................................................................................................... 14
Figure 7 – Hydrology............................................................................................................................................................................... 15
Figure 8 – Land and soil capability .................................................................................................................................................... 19
Figure 9 – Land use .................................................................................................................................................................................. 20
Figure 10 – Vegetation ........................................................................................................................................................................... 21
Figure 11 – Bushfire prone land.......................................................................................................................................................... 22
Figure 12 – Proposed materials transport route .......................................................................................................................... 27
Figure 13 – Land use zoning ................................................................................................................................................................ 34
Figure 14 – Non associated residential receivers......................................................................................................................... 36
TABLES
Table 1 – The site ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 2
Table 2 – Groundwater bore data ...................................................................................................................................................... 16
Table 3 – Land use summary within 2 km of the site ................................................................................................................. 17
Table 4 – Development options.......................................................................................................................................................... 28
Table 5 – Statutory requirements for a project ............................................................................................................................ 29
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Table 6 – June non associated receiver engagement ................................................................................................................ 38

Table 7 – Study area ................................................................................................................................................................................ 48
Table 8 – Threatened species with potential to be present on site...................................................................................... 51
Table 9 – Biodiversity characteristics ................................................................................................................................................ 56
Table 10 – References ............................................................................................................................................................................. 61
APPENDICES
APPENDIX A SCOPING REPORT SUMMARY TABLE
APPENDIX B LOCAL LAND SERVICES PNP-PLAN-06868
APPENDIX C AHIMS SEARCH RESULTS
APPENDIX D NATIVE TITLE INFORMATION
APPENDIX E PROTECTED MATTERS SEARCH TOOL (PMST) RESULTS
APPENDIX F EPURON ENGAGEMENT SUMMARY
APPENDIX G REGULATORY AUTHORITY AND COMMUNITY CONSULTATION
APPENDIX H TRANSGRID CONSULTATION
APPENDIX I SOCIAL IMPACT SCOPING WORKSHEET
APPENDIX J VISUAL ASSESSMENT MEMO
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1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Overview
Premise Australia has been engaged by Epuron Projects Pty. Ltd (Epuron, ‘The Applicant’) to prepare this
Scoping Report to support a State Significant Development (SSD) application for electricity generating works
(solar farm, battery energy storage system and associated works) across multiple lots detailed in Table 1.
Together, these lots form 255 and 420 Avenue Road, Myrtle Creek (hereafter referred to as ‘the site’). The
estimated output of the solar farm is approximately 500-megawatts (MWAC), equivalent to the electricity
required to power approximately 100,000 homes, with an approximately 500MW BESS.
The intent of the Scoping Report is to seek the Secretary’s Environmental Assessment Requirements (SEARs)
from the Department of Planning and Environment (DPE) which will inform the preparation of an EIS in
support of a SSD application submitted under Part 4 of the EP&A Act. The project is SSD under the State
Environmental Planning Policy (Planning Systems) 2021 (Systems SEPP) and the applicable consent authority
for the proposal is the NSW Minister for Planning or the Minister’s delegate. A Scoping Report Summary
Table is provided at Appendix A.
The site is located in the Richmond Valley Council (RVC) Local Government Area (LGA), approximately seven
kilometres east of the town of Rappville (refer to Figure 1). With an area of approximately 1,132 hectares, it is
accessible from and bisected by Avenue Road. The site is currently predominantly used for primary
production following previous use as a plantation forest. A single dwelling house is located in Lot 29
DP755607 (hereafter referred to as ‘the associated dwelling’).
The project is to be known as the Richmond Valley Solar Farm (RVSF). The RVSF includes the following within
a development footprint of approximately 955 hectares, to be leased from the landowner:
• Installation of photovoltaic solar panel modules, using either Crystaline silicone or thin film technology,
mounted on an east-west tracking system with a total capacity of 500 MWAC.
• Installation of containerised lithium-ion batteries with a capacity of up to 500 MWAC and 500 MW hours.
• Installation of an enclosed site substation within the north-western corner of Lot 29 DP755607 including
a transformer to increase voltage to 132kv or 330kV and a connection to existing TransGrid power lines
to the north-west.
• An array of inverters and transformers together with an AC collection system consisting of underground
22kV or 33 kV sub-transmission lines to connect the Solar Farm and BESS to the site substation;
• Cabling and collector units, site office, storage area, internal access tracks, on-site parking, security
fencing, lighting and temporary construction laydown area; and
• Utilisation of existing site access via Avenue Road
A transmission line would be required to facilitate connection of the substation to TransGrid powerlines to
the north-west. The expected connection route extends through a partially cleared corridor along northern
boundary of Lot 32 DP755607 and Lot 34 DP755607, which is impacted by a Private Native Forestry Plan
(PNP-06868; refer to Appendix B).
Whether connections would be managed as an ancillary component of the project and addressed in the
Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) or managed by Epuron via Part 5 of the Environmental Planning and
Assessment Act 1979 (the EP&A Act) is to be confirmed as the project progresses.
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Figure 1 – Regional Context
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Table 1 – The site
Lot DP Size (hectares)

32 755607 124.2
1 540060 60.81
2 540060 56.19
36 755607 58.12
29 755607 264.3
30 755607 205.9
62 755607 202.3
57 755607 237.9
TOTAL 1209.72
1.2 Applicant
Epuron Projects Pty Ltd is an Australian owned company that specialises in the design and planning of utility
scale wind and solar energy facilities. Epuron have been developing solar and wind energy projects
throughout Australia since 2003, managing projects from site identification through all phases of
development to construction and operation.
As expert project developers, Epuron aim to work closely with local communities and key stakeholders to
provide broad social and environmental benefits. With a diverse range of experience and successful delivery
of renewable energy projects in NSW, Queensland, Northern Territory, Western Australia and Tasmania,
Epuron are well placed to continue their success in solar and wind energy projects across the country.
Epuron’s address is Level 11, 75 Miller Street, North Sydney, NSW, 2060 and ABN is 84 150 163 143
1.3 Planning Framework

The proposed solar farm and BESS is defined as electricity generating works under the Richmond Valley Local
Environmental Plan (RVLEP) 2012, being;
a building or place used for the purpose of—
(a) making or generating electricity, or
(b) electricity storage
The proposed development is SSD on the following basis:
1. Section 4.36(2) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (the Act) provides that a State
Environmental Planning Policy may declare any development, or any class or description of
development, to be SSD.
2. Clause 2.6(1) of the Systems SEPP provides that development is declared to be SSD for the purposes of
the Act if:
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(a) the development on the land concerned is, by the operation of an environmental planning
instrument, not permissible without development consent under Part 4 of the Act, and
(b) the development is specified in Schedule 1 or 2.
The proposed development satisfies clause 2.6(1)(a) of the Systems SEPP as electricity generating works are
permitted with consent within prescribed rural zones under clause 2.36(1)(b) of State Environmental Planning
Policy (Transport and Infrastructure) 2021 (the Infrastructure SEPP). Under clause 2.35 of the Infrastructure
SEPP, prescribed rural zones include the RU1 Primary Production zone which applies to the site under the
Richmond Valley Local Environmental Plan 2012 (RVLEP). A proposed power line connection to the grid is
permissible as an ancillary component of an electricity generating works.
The proposed development satisfies clause 2.6(1)(b) of the Systems SEPP on the grounds that it is for the
purposes of electricity generating works which have a capital investment value (CIV) of more than $30 million
in accordance with clause 20, Schedule 1 of the Systems SEPP.
1.4 Report Structure

In accordance with the State Significant Development Guidelines – Preparing a Scoping Report (DPIE 2021),
the report is structured as follows:
• Section 1 provides an introduction to the site, its location, the proposed development and the planning
framework.
• Section 2 details the development’s strategic and local context and provides an analysis of the site.
• Section 3 provides a description of the proposed development and alternative options considered.
• Section 4 provides an assessment of the proposed development against the planning framework.
• Section 5 provides details of completed and proposed engagement.
• Section 6 provides a summary of the assessment of project impacts.
2. STRATEGIC CONTEXT
2.1 Policy
2.1.1 NSW ELECTRICITY INFRASTRUCTURE ROADMAP (DPIE 2020)
DPIE released the NSW Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap in November 2020. Key actions from the Roadmap
include:
• Renewable Energy Zones (REZs);

• Transmissions development scheme;
• Electricity Infrastructure Investment Safeguard;
• Pumped Hydro Recoverable Grants Program; and
• Internationally competitive NSW industries.
Five REZs are at various stages of development including in the Central West-Orana, New England, South-
West, Hunter-Central Coast and Illawarra, selected based on the availability of resources and existing
connecting infrastructure. Whilst the site is not located within any of the current REZs:
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• The site is mapped under the Renewable Energy Map of New South Wales (NSW Government 2018) as
receiving the same or higher level of average daily solar exposure (megajoules per square metre) as
parts of the New England REZ and parts of the Hunter-Central Coast REZ; and
• There is a high density of existing and planned wind and solar energy projects in the vicinity of the site.
2.1.2 NORTH COAST REGIONAL PLAN 2036 (DPE 2016)

The North Coast Regional Plan 2036 (the Plan) is the NSW Government’s strategy for guiding land use
planning decisions for the North Coast Region for the next 20 years. The plan has set the following core
vision for the region as, The best region in Australia to live, work and play thanks to its spectacular
environment and vibrant communities, supported by four regionally focussed goals and associated
directions. The following directions are relevant to the proposed development:
• Goal 1 – The most stunning environment in NSW
– Direction 1 – Deliver environmentally sustainable growth
– Direction 3 – Manage natural hazards and climate change
– Direction 4 – Promote renewable energy opportunities
• Goal 2 – A thriving, interconnected economy
– Direction 11 – Protect and enhance productive agricultural lands
– Direction 13 – Sustainably manage natural resources
• Goal 3 – Vibrant and engaged communities
– Direction 15 – Develop healthy, safe, socially engaged and well-connected communities
– Direction 16 – Collaborate and partner with Aboriginal communities
– Direction 18 – Respect and protect the North Coast’s Aboriginal heritage
– Direction 21 – Coordinate local infrastructure delivery
The project supports renewable energy generation in the region and is considered to be generally consistent
with Goal 1, and particularly Direction 1, 3 and 4 of the Regional Plan.
2.1.3 RICHMOND VALLEY LOCAL STRATEGIC PLANNING STATEMENT

In accordance with Section 3.9 of the Act, Richmond Valley Council adopted the Richmond Valley Local
Strategic Planning Statement (LSPS) in May 2020. The LSPS sets the following vision for Richmond Valley to
2040:
A collaborative community working together to advance a resilient and robust economy which reflects a
strong sense of community, successful businesses and a healthy environment.
The vision is supported by the following themes:
• Our Community
• Our Environment
• Our Economy.
The LSPS sets 8 planning priorities for the LGA, being:

1. Plan for the delivery of infrastructure to support growth
2. Align development, growth and infrastructure
3. Improve the delivery of planning services
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4. Look after our environment.

5. Create resilient communities
6. Celebrate our heritage
7. Protect productive agriculture land & significant resources
8. Diversify the range of services and employment options.
The project is consistent with and supports planning priorities 1, 2, 4 and 8 through the provision of a
renewable form of electrical production that diversifies employment options and improves the sustainability,
resilience and reliability of the energy network.
2.1.4 RICHMOND VALLEY COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

The Richmond Valley Community Strategic Plan (CSP) identifies the community’s main priorities and
aspirations for the future. It contains the vision for the Richmond Valley region being:
A great community with a relaxed lifestyle, beautiful environment and vibrant economy
The CSP identifies the following themes:
• Leadership
• Accessibility
• Transparency
• Good services
• Sustainability
• Innovation
The vision is supported by a range of community priorities being:
1. Connecting people and places

2. Growing our economy
3. Looking after our environment
4. Making Council Great
The CSP community objectives are:
• Fresh & Vibrant Community

• Getting Around
• Working Together
• Driving Economic Growth
• Building on our Strengths
• Managing our Waste and Water
• Promoting the Protection of the Environment
• Leading and Advocating for our Community
• Great Support
The project delivers a form of sustainable and renewable energy generation, which reduces reliance on
traditional forms of energy protection, such as the burning of fossil fuels. This provides for diversity in the
region and supports the local community. On balance, the project is not inconsistent with the vision and
objectives of the CSP.
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2.2 Local Context

As shown in Figure 2, the site is situated approximately 7 kilometres to the west of the town of Rappville, 25
kilometres south of Casino and 26 kilometres to the west of Woodburn. Rappville accommodates a small
residential population with commensurate facilities including commercial services, a train station, Post office,
a public school, and recreational amenities. The North Coast Railway, connecting Maitland to the south and
Brisbane to the north runs through Rappville in a north to south alignment.
The site is within a predominantly rural area, bordered by Bungawalbin State Forest in the east, surrounding
primary production land and the proposed Myrtle Creek solar farm to the south-west. The surrounding
locality is characterised by predominantly rural land uses with land in the immediate vicinity occupied by
scattered rural residential dwellings and used for forestry and plantation purposes.
The site is located on Avenue Road which links with Summerland Way to the west via Main Camp Road and
with Myall Creek Road to the east. Summerland Way runs from Grafton (approximately 65 kilometres to the
south of the site) to the Mount Lindesay Highway in southern Queensland (approximately 89 kilometres to
the north-west) via Casino (approximately 25 kilometres to the north) and Kyogle (approximately 51
kilometres to the north). National Parks within proximity include the Bungawalbin National Park
(approximately four kilometres to the east), Bungawalbin State Conservation Area (approximately 3.5
kilometres to the north-east) and Bungawalbin Nature Reserve (approximately three kilometres to the south-
east).
The locality is predominantly used for rural uses including grazing native vegetation, plantation forests and
production native forestry. The Bungawalbin State Forest is located to the east and Myrtle Creek solar farm to
the south-west. Other State forests in the vicinity of the site include Ellangowan State Forest (approximately
one kilometre to the north-west) and Myrtle State Forest (approximately eight kilometre to the south-west.
While the locality is predominantly rural, there are forty-two (42) rural residential dwellings located within a
two kilometre radius of the site, including:
• The associated landowner C3-4 situated within Lot 29 DP 755607;

• 16 receivers located approximately one kilometre to the north;
• Seven receivers located approximately one kilometre to the west;
• Eight receivers located approximately 1.6 kilometre to the south-east, on the opposite side of the
Bungawalbin State Forest;
• Four receivers located approximately 3.5 kilometre to the south;
• Three receivers located approximately 3.4 kilometre to the north-east;
• Two receivers located approximately 3.9 kilometre to the east; and
• One isolated receiver located approximately 1.1 kilometre to the south of the proposed development.
The closest non-associated landowner to the project, C3-5, is located approximately 270 metres to the north.
High voltage transmission lines (330kv and 132kv), running in a north-east to south-west alignment, are
located approximately one kilometre to the north-west of the site. These transmission lines form part of the
TransGrid transmission and distribution network.
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Figure 2 – Local Context
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2.3 Site Description

2.3.1 OVERVIEW
As shown in Figure 3, the subject site has an irregular shape with an area of 1132 hectares. Existing access to
the site from Avenue Road is via driveways at the boundaries of Lot 29 DP755607 and Lot 1 DP540060.
The eastern portion of the site is generally flat, rising towards the Bungawalbin State Forest to the east via a
high-point of RL 51 metres in the north-eastern corner of the site and the Ellangowan State Forest to the
west via a high-point of RL 65 metres in the western portion of the site. Mapped watercourses extend
through re-entrants eastward across the site before draining south.
The site is predominantly cleared of vegetation, featuring several isolated patches together with larger
connected strands towards the east and south. It is predominantly used for primary production purposes and
features a number of single storey dwellings together with several farm dams and sheds.
A Private Native Forestry Plan-(06868) applies to Lot 32 DP755607 and Lot 34 DP755607 in the north-western
portion of the site (refer Appendix B). TransGrid-owned high voltage transmission lines (330kv and 132kv)
run in a north-east to south-west alignment, approximately one kilometre to the north-west of the site.
An Aboriginal site of heritage significance is located approximately 350m to the south of the site.
2.3.2 ACCESS
As shown in Figure 3, vehicular access to the site is provided via Avenue Road which bisects the north-
western portion of the site. Avenue Road is a local road with a single lane in each direction with a posted
speed limit of 100 km/hr. It links with Summerland Way (designated state road) via Main Camp Road to the
west and with Woodburn Coraki Road (designated regional road) via Myall Creek Road to the east. Existing
access to the site from Avenue Road is available from driveways at the boundaries of Lot 29 DP755607 and
Lot 1 DP540060. Upgrades to vehicular access to enable the proposed development are to be determined in
a Traffic Impact Assessment to be provided as part of the EIS.
2.3.3 EXISTING IMPORVEMENTS

As shown in Figure 3, the site is predominantly vacant, with the exception of fences throughout and farm
structures including single storey dwellings, including farm dams and sheds, within Lot 29, 32 and 39
DP755607 and Lot 1 DP540060. A Private Native Forestry Plan (PNP-06868) applies to the site (refer to
Appendix B) and is located on Lot 32 DP755607 and Lot 34 DP755607.
2.3.4 MINING
The site is not located on land the subject of any current exploration or mining title claims or applications.
Historic titles applying to the site include:
• EL4430, held by BHP Minerals Pty Ltd between 1992 and 1994;
• EL7146, held by gradient Energy Limited between 2008 and 2011;
• PEL13, held by Metgasco Ltd between 1995 and 2015;
• PEL66 held by Clarence River Basin Oil Exploration Co. NL (n.d);
• PEL207, held by Magnum Exploration N. L. (n.d); and
• PEL258, held by Endeavour Resources Ltd, Clarence Petroleum NL, Target Exploration Pty Ltd, Charterhall
Oil Australian Pty Ltd, Oil Compa, (n.d).
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Figure 3 – Site analysis
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2.3.5 HERITAGE
Whilst the site is not identified as being or adjoining an item of Aboriginal or European heritage significance
or within a heritage conservation area under the RVLEP, AHIMS Basic Search on 18 August 2021 (Appendix
C) identified an Aboriginal site approximately 350 metres from the southern boundary at Lot 16 in DP 755607
(refer to Figure 4). An AHIMS Extensive Search on 18 August 2021 identified that this site is recorded as a
Modified Tree (Carved or Scarred).
A review of Native Title Vision mapping from the National Native Title Tribunal, identifies that the eastern
boundary of the site borders a Native Title Determination Area (Bandjalang People #2, Tribunal No:
NCD2013/002), associated with Bungawalbin State Forest, Conservation Area and National Park (refer to
Appendix D).
A review of the RVLEP 2012, State Heritage Register and Department of the Environment Australian Heritage
Database identified the following items of heritage significance proximate to the site:
• Locally heritage listed I143 “Main Camp Homestead and Surrounds” is located at 840 Main Camp Road,
approximately 800 metres to the south of the site; and
• Locally heritage listed I120 “’Hindmarsh’ Grave” is located at Ellangowan Myrtle Creek Road,
approximately 3.65 kilometres to the north of the site.
2.3.6 HYDROGEOLOGY
2.3.6.1 Geology
As shown in Figure 5, the site is located within Grafton formation and undifferentiated alluvial plain. The
latter is characterised by Sandstone and shale: thinnly to thickly bedded sandstone (volcanilithic to quartz-
volcanilithic arenite and wacke), clayey siltstone and claystone, minor coal and carbonate concretions, rare
tuff. The former is characterised by Sand, silt, clay and gravel of alluvial deposits; includes beach, levee and
backswamp deposits, point bars, overbank and some residual and colluvial deposits.
The site is not within proximity to any mapped naturally occurring asbestos.
The site is not mapped as Landslide Risk under the RVLEP 2012.
2.3.6.2 Soil Landscape

As shown in Figure 6, three mapped soil landscapes occur within the site, including:
• The Ellangowan soil landscape in the north-western, north-eastern, and south-western portions of the
site;
• The Physics Lagoon soil landscape in the central, southern and south-eastern portions of the site; and
• Physics Lagoon variant plb) soil landscape, in an isolated patch within the central eastern portion of the
site.
The site is not mapped as containing Acid Sulfate Soils under the RVLEP 2012.
2.3.6.1 Groundwater
A search of the Australian Groundwater Explorer has indicated that there are no bores located within the
development site. As shown in Figure 7, 17 registered bores are located within three kilometres of the site.
Two (2) bores were identified as functioning while the status of 14 bores is unknown. One bore,
GW306605.1.1, was previously used for Water Supply but is now listed as abandoned. The details of
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surrounding groundwater bores are summarised in Table 2. The average drill depth of the identified bores is
32.5 metres.
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Figure 4 – Heritage
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Figure 5 – Geology
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Figure 6 – Soil landscapes
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Figure 7 – Hydrology
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Table 2 – Groundwater bore data
Bore Depth Drilled Depth Elevation Purpose

Site ID Drilled Date
(m) (m) (m AHD)
GW039169.1.1 15 18.3 01/05/1997 36.2 Monitoring
GW059097.1.1 N/A 45 01/07/1981 26.6 Irrigation
GW059098.1.1 N/A 47 01/07/1981 26.6 Irrigation
GW073356.1.1 29 30 02/02/1994 25.4 Water Supply
GW073357.1.1 18 18 25/01/1994 26.5 Water Supply
GW073358.1.1 21 21 01/02/1994 26.9 Water Supply
GW300911.1.1 10.5 10.5 25/09/1995 30.9 Monitoring
GW300917.1.1 27 27 23/09/1995 29.7 Monitoring
GW300918.1.1 6 6 23/09/1995 26.9 Monitoring
GW300919.1.1 6 6 02/09/1995 30.9 Monitoring
GW300920.1.1 19.8 19.8 22/09/1995 30.9 Monitoring
GW300924.1.1 18.3 18.3 12/08/1995 28.5 Irrigation
GW300925.1.1 25 25 18/08/1995 24.2 Irrigation
GW300926.1.1 29 29 18/09/1995 30.7 Irrigation
GW300927.1.1 27.5 27.5 30/09/1995 30.6 Irrigation
GW306605.1.1 102 102 20/02/2010 52.8 Water Supply
GW306606.1.1 102 102 22/02/2010 59.5 Water Supply
2.3.6.2 Contamination
A search of the NSW EPA Contaminated Land Record was undertaken for contaminated sites within the
Richmond Valley Council LGA on 19/11/2021. Two notices relating to one site were identified but none of
these are within the suburb of Myrtle Creek or relate to the subject site. A search of the NSW EPA NSW
contaminated sites notified to the EPA on 19/11/2021 did not identify any sites proximate to the site .
2.3.6.3 Surface Water

As shown in Figure 7, the site contains several small waterbodies along with a number of 1st and 2nd order
Strahler streams. A 3rd order Strahler stream transects the northern portion of the site, extending eastwards
before draining south-east towards Physics Creek. A 4th order Strahler stream (Physics Creek), mapped as a
sensitive watercourse, bisects the south-eastern corner of the site, draining towards the north-east before
transitioning to drain south towards Myrtle Creek.
Four wetlands are located within the site. Two additional wetlands are within vicinity to the site, with one
bordering the southern boundary of the site (in adjacent Lot 3 DP755607) and another situated within
proximity to the south-eastern corner (in adjacent Lot 7300 DP113819).
The RVLEP 2012 does not include flood prone land mapping. Flood maps prepared as part of the Richmond
River Flood Warning and Evacuation Management Review (BMT WBM 2010) do not extend to the site.
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2.3.7 LAND RESOURCES

As shown in Figure 8:
• The Ellangowan soil landscape is categorised as Class 4 (Moderate to severe limitations).
• The Physics Lagoon Landscape is categorised as Class 6 (Very severe limitations).
• The Physics Lagoon variant plb landscape is categorised as Class 5 (Severe limitations).
2.3.8 LAND USE

As shown in Figure 9, the site is predominantly used for primary production purposes including native
forestry production and plantation forests. A breakdown of land uses within two kilometres of the site is
provided in Table 3.
Table 3 – Land use summary within 2 km of the site
Land Use Area (ha) %

Other minimal use 1182.560 19.33
Grazing native vegetation 857.519 14.02
Production native forestry 1331.575 21.77
Plantation forests 1416.742 23.16
Grazing modified pastures 381.817 6.24
Cropping 17.670 0.29
Perennial horticulture 2.196 0.04
Irrigated plantation Forests 526.726 8.61
Irrigated perennial horticulture 4.011 0.07
Intensive animal production 1.798 0.03
Residential and Farm 154.726
Infrastructure 2.53
Utilities 52.479 0.86
Transport and communication 61.484 1.01
Reservoir/dam 68.998 1.13
Channel/aqueduct 18.568 0.3
Marsh/wetland 37.870 0.6
TOTAL 6116.739 hectares 100%
2.3.9 VEGETATION AND BIODIVERSITY

As shown in Figure 10:
• Approximately 210.38 hectares of the site is mapped as Terrestrial Biodiversity under the RVLEP 2012,
concentrated in the north-western and south-eastern corners of the site and centrally along its, southern
boundary;
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SCOPING REPORT
• Approximately 6.82 hectares of land mapped under the Biodiversity Value Map (given effect under
Section 7.1(1)(b) of the Biodiversity Conservation Regulation 2017 (the BC Regulation) via Section 7.4(1)
of the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 (the BC Act)) transects the south-eastern portion of the site
along Physics Creek; and
• A search of the NSW BioNet Atlas returned a total of 65 threatened species sighted within a 10km buffer
of the site. A PMST search returned a further 38 Commonwealth-protected threatened species which are
known or have the potential to occur within a 10km radius of the site. From the list, 98 species are listed
under the BC Act, 52 are listed under the EPBC Act and of this 48 are protected under both state and
federal legislation. 12 ecological communities and 2 endangered populations are known to occur in the
RVC LGA.
From these lists, some notable species include the Koala, Regent Honeyeater and the Endangered Emu
Population, for which there are many local records.
In addition to threatened species, Broad-scale mapping (DPIE 2012) identified the following vegetation as
occurring within the site:
• Dry Sclerophyll Forests (Shrub/grass sub-formation), Clarence Dry Sclerophyll Forests in the north-west
of the site.
• Grassy Woodlands, Coastal Valley Grassy Woodlands in the south-western portion of the site.
• Forested Wetlands, Coastal Floodplain Forests in the southern and south-eastern portions of the site.
A review of the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) National Atlas of Groundwater Dependent Ecosystems (GDE)
identified the following Terrestrial GDEs (surface or subsurface dependent) occur within or in proximity to the
site:
• Lowlands Spotted Gum-Box
• Clarence Lowlands Spotted Gum
• Dry Healthy Blackbutt
• Inland Melaleuca
• Lowland Grey Box
In addition, mapped subterranean GDEs occur on site, mapped for unnamed creek and remnant woodland
areas in northwest and southeast on site.
An additional summary of biodiversity characteristics is discussed in Section 6.6.
2.3.10 BUSHFIRE
As shown in Figure 11, the majority of the site is mapped as Vegetation Category 1 bushfire prone land. A
minor, western portion of the site is not mapped as bushfire prone land. The transition area between the
mapped Vegetation Category 1 and unaffected land is mapped as Vegetation Buffer.
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SCOPING REPORT
Figure 8 – Land and soil capability
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Figure 9 – Land use
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Figure 10 – Vegetation
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SCOPING REPORT
Figure 11 – Bushfire prone land
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SCOPING REPORT
3. PROJECT DESCRIPTION
3.1 Project Objectives

The Richmond Valley Solar Farm and BESS will be designed to provide electrical generation and grid
flexibility services. It will support transitions towards renewable energy, the availability of electricity and the
efficiency of the existing electrical network, increasing and regulating the total supply of energy. The
incorporation of a BESS will improve the efficiency of electrical usage, benefiting consumers with a more
consistent and reliable energy supply by ensuring that electricity produced can stored during low demand
and supplied during high demand. Electricity generated by the Solar farm will be delivered to the nearby
aboveground TransGrid 132 kV Koolkhan to Lismore powerline and soled into the National Electricity Market
(NEM), with Large Generation Certificates (LGC’s) sold to liable entities under the Renewable Energy Act 2000.
A plan showing the indicative solar array is to be provided as part of the EIS. The following sub-sections
outline the proposed features of the Solar Farm, BESS and grid connection.
3.1.1 SOLAR FARM

The RVSF is designed to generate electricity and will support the efficiency of the existing electrical network.
The Solar farm will use solar Photovoltaic (PV) panels to convert sunlight into electrical current, with grid
compliant energy delivered to the nearby aboveground TransGrid 132 kV Koolkhan to Lismore powerline.
Electricity will be sold into the National Electricity Market (NEM) and Large Generation Certificates (LGC’s) will
be sold to liable entities under the Renewable Energy Act 2000.
The proposed output capacity of the proposed solar farm is approximately 500 MW AC, noting that this is a
function of optimisation of the amount of energy that can be generated within the site and subject to
capacity constraints of the local electrical grid. The final capacity and footprint of the solar farm infrastructure
will be refined through consideration of findings as a result of further site investigations and identification of
constraints and opportunities mapped through the environmental impact assessment process. The intent,
however, is to maximise the built footprint over the development site which, at this stage, includes an area of
approximately 955 hectares (ha).
Solar PV technology will be either crystalline silicone or thin film. The solar PV modules will be connected
together via a direct current (DC) collection system consisting of cables mounted on the module support
structure. The support structure will be east-west tracking. A tracking system tracks the daily movement of
the sun and a motorised system rotates the panels constantly towards the sun to maximise energy output
performance.
Inverters and transformers will be located in an array within the footprint to convert the DC current to
alternating current (AC). Inverter and transformer assemblies will be mounted on a steel platform or slab at
ground level and generally covered. The AC collection system will consist of underground cabling at 22 kV or
33 kV to connect to each inverter assembly and deliver the electricity to the site substation. The site
substation will consist of a transformer to increase voltage to 132 kV or 330 kV. The site sub-station will be
enclosed securely and would be located on Lot 28 DP755607.
A sub-station would be developed within the north-western corner of Lot 29 DP755607. The site substation
will be enclosed securely and will consist of a transformer to increase voltage to 132 kV or 330 kV. A
connection from the site substation to the nearby TransGrid Powerlines will be made via overhead or
underground high voltage cables. The route of this overhead power line is currently under investigation –
refer Section 3.1.3.
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SCOPING REPORT
A control room with associated parking area will be located on the site. This will be a relatively small structure
which will provide amenities for a limited number of site staff as well as facilities to enable monitoring of the
performance of the solar farm and communications connections to the electricity market operator. Once
operational the solar farm will require minimal site-based maintenance. It will be monitored remotely and
only attended to rectify faults and for occasional scheduled maintenance.
A security fence will be installed on the site boundary and construction tracks will be laid down. Construction
will require the use of bull dozers, water trucks, graders, flatbed trucks, skid steers, front end loaders, roller
compactors, trenchers, backhoes, gravel trucks, water tankers, cranes, and aerial lifts. Deliveries of modules
and other equipment will be made via flatbed trucks on the approved route and site entrance.
Solar modules are to have an indicative maximum height of five metres. A plan showing typical solar
modules and the indicative solar array is to be provided as part of the EIS.
3.1.2 BATTERY ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM (BESS) FACILITY

Battery storage providing a capacity of up to 500 MW hours would form part of the application but a
decision on the capacity and whether it would be installed would be made closer to the point of construction
and commissioning, given the uncertainty around the cost of battery delivery. Storage would provide the
capacity to deliver electricity to the transmission network on demand and more closely follow demand
fluctuations. This will ensure the electricity is most valuable to the market and is expected to improve the
efficiency of electrical usage, benefiting consumers with a more consistent and reliable energy supply.
If battery storage is included at the development, site battery banks will be housed in containers or a shed.
The structures will provide shelter and security and will incorporate services to control temperature etc.
Concrete footings are likely to be laid to support the structures. The storage facility would be located to the
near the site substation and will be connected via underground or overhead cables.
3.1.3 GRID CONNECTION

The transmission line that will connect RVSF to the nearby TransGrid transmission line would be owned by
the operator of the RVSF.
The ISEPP makes development for the purpose of an electricity transmission or distribution network
permissible without consent when carried out by or on behalf of an electricity supply authority or a public
authority. Such development may be assessed under Part 5 of the EP&A Act. Alternatively, transmission or
distribution infrastructure may be considered a component of the project and assessed as a permitted
activity via the Part 4 SSD process as a legitimately ancillary component of the permissible solar farm
development.
The power line connection route extends north from the proposed substation for approximately 80 metres
before travelling 1.7 km to the east, connecting with existing TransGrid Transmission lines – refer Figure 3.
The power line connection will be subject to detailed assessment and land holder negotiation.
The expected power line connection route along a pre-existing partially cleared corridor along the northern
boundary of Lot 32 DP755607 is zoned RU1 – Primary Production.
The proposed power line connection is permissible as an ancillary component of an electricity generating
works, which is permitted with consent on the RU1 zoned land. Land towards the north-west of the
development is covered by the Private Native Forestry Plan-06868. Consultation with Local Land Services
(LLS) will occur and the development will comply with relevant requirements set out in this plan- refer
Appendix B.
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SCOPING REPORT
The environmental impacts of transmission or distribution lines required for RVSF (a solar SSD project) will be
considered in the assessment of the application for the development.
Consistent with DPIE’s Large Scale Solar Energy Guideline (December 2018), Epuron Projects Pty Ltd will
provide information in the Environmental Impact Statement about the necessary transmission line, including
the proposed location, timing of decision-making, interaction with the timelines of the solar energy project
and relevant stakeholders, to assist in the consideration of all aspects of the project.
3.2 Proposed Development Overview

The project comprises a SF, potential BESS (subject to final project design) and associated infrastructure that
will occupy an area of approximately 955 ha. The SF will have a capacity of 500-megawatts (MWAC) and the
proposed BESS is expected to have a capacity of up to 500 MW. Ancillary powerlines will connect the
development via a site substation to existing TransGrid owned high voltage transmission lines, located
approximately 1km to the north-west.
The proposed SF and BESS, associated infrastructure and development footprint will align with, and be
contained within, the development area shown in Figure 3. The layout of the SF, BESS and associated
infrastructure will be detailed in the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the project.
The project would utilise existing access from Avenue Road and surrounding driveways within Lot 29 DP
755607 and Lot 1 DP540060.
The construction period is estimated to between 12-18 months. Photovoltaic Solar Panels and Batteries
required for the development, would be manufactured offsite and delivered for installation following
completion of site preparation. The site is expected to require minimal preparation in advance of installing
the PV panel system and potential BESS, as it is generally flat with only minor undulations and largely devoid
of vegetation. It is anticipated that construction materials would be delivered to the site via the Port of
Brisbane, with vehicles accessing the site via the routes shown in Figure 12.
It is anticipated that the SF and BESS would be operational for a period of approximately 20 years after which
time the existing SF and BESS would be removed and the site would be decommissioned, including the
removal of all above ground infrastructure and the remediation of the site. It is conceivable that the
infrastructure may be upgraded rather than decommissioned and the lifespan extended. The SF and BESS
would operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The project is expected to generate up to 200 Full time Equivalent (FTE) jobs during construction, up to 4 FTE
jobs during operation and around another 50 casual staff associated with maintenance, vegetation
management and equipment inspection.
The area of the SF and BESS would be leased for the duration of the development from the associated
landowner.
3.3 Proposed Development Details

The primary components associated with the installation of the SF and BESS are as follows:
• Off-site manufacture of the SF and BESS equipment;
• Vegetation clearing to provide a developable site;
• Levelling the development site and installation of supports for solar panel tracking System.
• If required, installation of temporary site access arrangements.
• Construction of a benches on which to install the BESS and Site Substation unit;
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SCOPING REPORT
• Installation of solar panels, site substation and the BESS;

• Connection of the SF and BESS to the site substation via 33 kV or 132 kV circuits/sub-transmission line;
• Constructing an earthing system for the SF and BESS within the subject property;
• Ancillary high voltage equipment, such as circuit breakers, switching equipment, filters, transformers and
other electrical protection equipment;
• Auxiliary power, protection, indication and control systems;
• Fencing and gates as required to provide security around the BESS facility;
• Outdoor sensor lighting to provide illumination, when needed, at night;
• Storage enclosures for storing equipment;
• Communication room for housing communication equipment;
• HVAC equipment for providing cooling and ventilation; and
• Commissioning.
Upon decommissioning of the SF and BESS, the following indicative steps would occur:
• The above ground equipment including solar panels, tracking system and foundational pillars would be
removed. BESS and site substation infrastructure would be unbolted from concrete slabs and removed
by crane onto transporters. All site infrastructure would be taken away from site to an appropriate
recycling or waste facility;
• Underground services would be cut back to below ground level and capped; and
• The site would then be landscaped to a safe, clean and stable state.
The project is expected to remain operational for approximately thirty years. Although the project will be
monitored and controlled remotely during operation, some routine maintenance will be periodically
performed on-site. On-site maintenance activities will only require limited personnel. Ongoing site
maintenance will generally involve:
• Monitoring, testing and maintenance of onsite equipment

• Receipt of goods,
• Removal of waste and;
• Other general site maintenance (e.g., care of groundcover).
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SCOPING REPORT
Figure 12 – Proposed materials transport route
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SCOPING REPORT
3.4 Justification for the Preferred Option

Development options considered as part of this Scoping Report and to be considered in greater detail in the
EIS are described in Table 4 below.
Table 4 – Development options
Alternatives: Description:
Option 1 Base Case, ‘Do Nothing’ Option 1 would involve not installing and operating a
SF and BESS at the site or elsewhere.
Option 2 Alternative Site Option 2 involve installing and operating the SF and
BESS at an alternative site.
Option 3 SF and BESS Technology and Option 3 would involve using alternative technology at
Provider Alternatives the site.
Option 4 SF and BESS at 420 Avenue Option 4 would involve the installation and operation
Road, Myrtle Creek, ‘Preferred of a SF and BESS at the site.
Option’ (Figure 4)
Of the above, Option 4 is the preferred option, and this is discussed in further detail in the following sections.
3.4.1 OPTION 1
Option 4 is preferred over Option 1 on the grounds that the latter:
• Is inconsistent with the strategic context set by State and local policy, including:
– Direction 4 of the North Coast Regional Plan 2036 (DPE 2016) which seeks to “Promote renewable
energy opportunities”; and
– Planning Priorities 1, 2, 4 and 8 of the Richmond Valley LSPS which seek to “Plan for the delivery of
infrastructure to support growth”, “Align development, growth and infrastructure”, “Look after our
environment” and “Diversify the range of services and employment options”.
• Fails to provide increased supply (provided by the solar farm component of the proposed development)
and regulation (enabled by the BESS component of the proposed development) of electricity as it
becomes increasingly variable due to the transition from traditional to more sustainable, renewable
sources in the region.
3.4.2 OPTION 2
Option 4 is the preferred over Option 2 as the latter would result in increased costs and environmental
impacts associated with acquisition of a suitable property (Epuron has entered into an agreement to lease
the site of the proposed development from an associated landowner) and construction of increased lengths
of connecting infrastructure (likely to include earthworks and vegetation removal). In comparison, the length
of the connecting infrastructure for Option 4 is expected to be minimal due to the proximity of the
development to existing TransGrid transmission lines.
The proposed site represents an optimal balance of competing demands including proximity to the New
England REZ, separation from existing dwellings and avoidance of environmental constraints including
heritage, hydrogeology, vegetation and bushfire.
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SCOPING REPORT
An alternative site outside of the proposed location may be further from the Renewable Energy Zone, closer
to (and therefore result in greater impacts to) existing dwelling houses, result in fragmentation of existing
agricultural operations or result in greater environmental impacts.
3.4.3 OPTION 3
Option 4 is preferred over Option 3 as:
• The former provides the most reliable way, using current photovoltaic and battery storage technology,
to produce, store and regulate electrical supply in a network, which is expected to prove crucial for
overcoming the increased variability brought with transitions from traditional to more sustainable,
renewable energy sources; and
• The latter may not be suitable to the site due to its limited area or other reasons, requiring the seeking
out and acquisition of an alternative site and construction of connecting infrastructure.
4. STATUTORY CONTEXT
The key statutory requirements for the project are set out in Table 2.
Table 5 – Statutory requirements for a project
Matter: Guidance: Comment:

Power to grant Identify the legal pathway under Section 4.5 of the EP&A Act provides that the
consent which consent is to be sought, why consent authority is the Independent Planning
the pathway applies, and who the Commission (if the development is of a kind
consent authority is likely to be. for which the Commission is declared the
consent authority by an environmental
planning instrument) or the Minister (if the
development is not of that kind).
Section 4.36(2) of the EP&A Act provides that a
State Environmental Planning Policy may
declare any development, or any class or
description of development, to be State
significant development.
clause 2.6(1) of the Systems SEPP provides that
development is declared to be State significant
for the purposes of the EP&A Act if:
• the development on the land concerned is,
by the operation of an environmental
planning instrument, not permissible
without development consent under Part 4
of the EP&A Act; and
• The development is specified in Schedule 1
or 2 of the SEPP.
The consent authority for the proposed
development is likely to be the Minister:
• On the grounds that the proposed
development satisfies:
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SCOPING REPORT
– Section 2.6(1)(a) of the Systems SEPP on

the grounds that it is permitted with
consent under Section 2.361)(b) of the
Infrastructure SEPP; and
– Section 2.6(1)(b) of the Systems SEPP on
the grounds that it is for the purposes of
electricity generating works that has a
capital investment value of more than
$30 million in accordance with Section
20 of Schedule 1 of the SEPP.
• Unless it is the Independent Planning
Commission if, in accordance with clause
2.7(1) of the Systems SEPP:
– The council of the area in which the
development is to be carried out (RVC)
has duly made a submission by way of
objection under the mandatory
requirements for community
participation in Schedule 1 of the EP&A
Act;
– At least 50 unique submissions (other
than from a council) have duly been
made by way of objection under the
mandatory requirements for community
participation in Schedule 1 to the Act;
and
– The development application is made by
a person who has disclosed a reportable
political donation under section 10.4 to
the Act in connection with the
development application.
Permissibility Identify the relevant provisions Electricity generating works are prohibited in
affecting the permissibility of the the RU1 Primary Production and E2
project, including any land use zones. Environmental Conservation zones applying to
If there are inconsistencies in these the site under the relevant local environmental
provisions, identify the plan, the RVLEP 2012 (refer to Figure 13).
inconsistencies and explain which Notwithstanding the above, the development
provisions prevail to the extent of any is permitted with consent on the following
inconsistency. grounds:
If the project is partly or wholly • The proposed development satisfies clause
prohibited, identify any provisions or 2.6(1)(a) of the Systems SEPP as electricity
actions being taken that would allow generating works are permitted with
the project to be considered on its consent within prescribed rural zones under
merits (e.g. making a concurrent clause 2.36(1)(b) of State Environmental
amendment to the relevant)17. Planning Policy (Transport and
Infrastructure) 2021 (the Infrastructure
SEPP). Under clause 2.35 of the
Infrastructure SEPP, prescribed rural zones
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SCOPING REPORT
include the RU1 Primary Production zone

which applies to the site under the
Richmond Valley Local Environmental Plan
2012 (RVLEP). A proposed power line
connection to the grid is permissible as an
ancillary component of an electricity
generating works.
• The proposed development satisfies clause
2.6(1)(b) of the Systems SEPP on the
grounds that it is for the purposes of
electricity generating works which have a
capital investment value (CIV) of more than
$30 million in accordance with clause 20,
Schedule 1 of the Systems SEPP.
Other approvals Identify any other approvals that are The following consistent approvals are
required to carry out the project and required:
why they are required. These • A licence under Section 48 of the Protection
approvals should be grouped into of the Environment Operations Act 1997
the following categories: (the POEO Act) to perform an activity listed
• Consistent approvals: approvals under Schedule 1 of the POEO Act,
that cannot be refused if the including the general electricity works with
project is approved and must be capacity to generate more than 30
substantially consistent with the megawatts of electrical power as specified
approval in Section 17, Schedule 1 of the POEO Act.
• EPBC Act approval, and whether a Commonwealth approvals are not required for
bilateral agreement applies the following reasons:
• Other approvals: approvals that • A search for potential matters of national
are not expressly integrated into environmental significance (MNES) that may
the SSD assessment under the trigger the need for referral to the
EP&A Act (e.g. water access Australian Department of Agriculture, Water
licenses under the Water and the Environment (DAWE) via the online
Management Act 2000, leases Protected Matters Search Tool (PMST),
under the National Parks and conducted with a 10 kilometre buffer of the
Wildlife Act 1974). site on 30/06/2022 (refer Appendix E):
Also identify the approvals that – Did not identify any World Heritage
would have been required if the Properties National Heritage Places or
project was not an SSD project. Wetlands protected by the
Commonwealth Environment Protection
Pre-conditions Identify pre-conditions to exercising
and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999
to exercising the power to grant consent for the
(EPBC Act); and
the power to project that may be relevant to
grant consent setting the SEARs. These will include – Identified three listed threatened
mandatory conditions that must be ecological communities, 51 listed
satisfied before the consent authority threatened species and 17 migratory
may grant consent (e.g. under the species with the potential to occur in
Sydney Drinking Water SEPP, a proximity to the site but are unlikely to
consent authority must be satisfied occur due to the substantially altered
before granting consent that the landscape.
carrying out of the proposed • As noted, the site was historically the
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SCOPING REPORT
development would have a neutral or location of a plantation farming operation

beneficial effect on water quality). that impacted a significant portion of the
site. On this basis, the likelihood of the
project site accommodating sensitive
species or habitats which would be
impacted, and which would result in Serious
and Irreversible Impacts (SAIIs), is
considered low.
• A review of National Native Title Tribunal’s
Native Title Register did not identify any
Native Title claims or applications, or
Indigenous Land Use Agreements applying
to the site under the Commonwealth Native
Title Act 1993 (the Native Title Act).
Mandatory Identify matters that the consent Pursuant to Section 4.15 of the EP&A Act, the
matters for authority is required to consider in following mandatory matters for consideration
consideration deciding whether to grant consent to apply:
any development application for the • Relevant environmental planning
project that may be relevant to instruments, including:
setting the SEARs.
– State Environmental Planning Policy
(Resilience and Hazards) 2021 (the
Hazards SEPP):
• Chapter 3 Hazardous and offensive
development; and
• Chapter 4 Remediation of land.
(Transport and Infrastructure) 2021 (the
Infrastructure SEPP):
• Chapter 2 Infrastructure.
(Planning Systems) 2021 (the Systems
SEPP):
• Chapter 2 State and regional
development.
(Biodiversity and Conservation) 2021
(the Biodiversity SEPP):
• Chapter 3 Koala habitat protection
2020
– Richmond Valley Local Environmental
Plan 2012 (RVLEP).
• The relevant development control plan,
being the Richmond Valley Development
Control Plan 2021 (noting that the
application of development control plans is
excluded from SSD under clause 2.10 of the
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SCOPING REPORT
Systems SEPP);
• The likely impacts of the development,
including environmental impacts on both
the natural and built environments, and
social and economic impacts in the locality;
• The suitability of the site for the
development; and
• The public interest.
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SCOPING REPORT
Figure 13 – Land use zoning
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SCOPING REPORT
5. ENGAGEMENT
5.1 Scoping Stage Consultation

As detailed in the Preliminary Engagement Report (Epuron 2022) attached in Appendix F, Epuron carried out
preliminary engagement with surrounding landowners, community groups and regulatory bodies to inform
preparation of the Scoping Report. Preliminary engagement strategies have aimed to:
• Inform key stakeholders and the local community of the details of the project;
• Establish easily accessible channels for questions and feedback; and
• Engage directly with key stakeholders in particular:
– Nearby residents;
– Traditional Owner and Custodians;
– Interested members of the local community;
– Richmond Valley Council; and
– Network service provider, Transgrid.
Epuron has implemented the following forms of engagement:

• Introductory letters to 41 residents property owners within four kilometres of the site on 20 August 2021
(as depicted in , including residents and properties along Summerland Way, Avenue Road, Elliots Road,
Ermelo Road, Ellangown Road, Main Camp Road, Myall Creek Road, Duchess Close, Connell Street and
Duke Road;
• Follow up letters to five residents and property owners within one kilometre of the site on 19 October
2021, including residents and properties along Avenue Road and Ermelo Road;
• Follow up letters on 8 February 2022 to 11 residents and property owners considered to as likely to be
impacted due to proximity or location, including residents and properties along Avenue Road and
Ermelo Road;
• Project website and feedback form at www.richmondvalleysolar.com.au;
• Newsletter distributed in the first week of December 2021 via an unaddressed mailout through Australia
Post to 1083 residents and a direct mainlining list of 43 recipients and email contact;
• Project update in the first week of February 2022 to 43 mail recipients including 11 residents identified
to have potential impacts, as well as 30 recipients via email;
• Community information sessions via Zoom at 10am and 6pm on 3 March 2022;
• Interview of the Epuron project manager on 88.9 FM Richmond Valley Radio on 17 December 2021 and
28 January 2022 and ABC North Coast on 10 February 2022;
• Inclusion of project details and first community information sessions in Council’s “Valley Views”
community newsletter, distributed on 14 February 2022;
• Promoting details of the solar farm and first community information via a Facebook post on the
Ellangowan Community Hall and 88.9 FM Facebook pages;
• Discussions with and regular updates of the Bogal Local Aboriginal Land Council (BLALC) and
Bandjalang Corporation;
• Discussions with and regulates updates of the elected and executive members of the RVC; and
• Discussions with Transgrid.
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SCOPING REPORT
Figure 14 – Non associated residential receivers
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SCOPING REPORT
To date Epuron has received a number of phone/email enquiries and five feedback form submissions from
community members. Concerns raised and responded to have included:
• Concept powerline route

• Soil contamination
• Road access
• Dust caused by construction
• Disposal of solar panels.
The online community information sessions were very productive. Attendees were interested in:
• Biodiversity impacts
• Flooding
• Road access to the local community
• Community benefit sharing scheme
In response, Epuron has provided preliminary data and explained that many of these issues will be further
explored in the course of assessment studies.
Following initial submission of the scoping report to DPE, further targeted engagement has been completed
by Premise to ensure that non associated residential receivers located proximal to the subject site understand
the project and how to engage with the project team. This engagement involved a Premise representative
visiting all properties to the north and south-west of the subject site to discuss the project with residents and
provide project information.
Project visits occurred between the 15-17 June. Properties visited are those listed noted in the red squares
identified on Figure 14.
A tabular summary of the outcome of this engagement is provided at Table 6.
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SCOPING REPORT
Table 6 – June non associated receiver engagement
Mapped Type Date visited Date revisited Address Comments raised Response to comment
entity as per
Figure 14
C3-1 Resident 15/06/2022 16/06/2022 7460 Summerland Owner Not Home/Locked
Way Gate/Guard Dog
C3-2 Resident 15/06/2022 16/06/2022 125 Avenue Road Visual, To be considered via project specific LVIA,
Traffic (road TIA, hydraulic analysis, SIA and ongoing
maintenance/dust), direct and targeted engagement
throughout the EIS process
Community Engagement,
Flooding,
Water Management,
Benefits to Community.
C3.3 Resident 15/06/2022 16/06/2022 100 Avenue Road Owner Not Home/Locked
Gate/Guard Dog
C3-6 Resident 15/06/2022 16/06/2022 32 Avenue Road Owner Not Home/Locked

Gate/Guard Dog
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SCOPING REPORT
entity as per
Figure 14
C3-7 Resident 15/06/2022 - 95 Avenue Road Traffic (road To be considered via project specific TIA,
maintenance/dust), hydraulic analysis and SIA.
Flooding,
Benefits to Community.
C3-8 Resident 15/06/2022 - 75 Avenue Road Traffic (road To be considered via project specific TIA
maintenance/dust)
C3-9 Paddock 15/06/2022 16/06/2022 No street number, Owner Not Home/Locked

with land is occupied by Gate/Guard Dog
Shipping shipping container
container and abandoned
machinery.
C3-5 Resident 15/06/2022 - 605 Avenue Road Visual, To be considered via project specific LVIA
Land Value, and TIA
Traffic (road conditions/dust)
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SCOPING REPORT
entity as per
Figure 14
D3-1 Resident 15/06/2022 16/06/2022 695 Avenue Road Owner Not Home/Locked
Gate/Guard Dog
D3-2 Resident 15/06/2022 690 Avenue Road Visual, To be considered via project specific LVIA,
Traffic (road TIA, hydraulic analysis, SIA, BDAR, ACHA
maintenance/dust), and ongoing direct and targeted
engagement throughout the EIS process
Flooding,
Benefits to Community,
Prior Clearing,
Biodiversity,
Koala Habitat,
Indigenous Community.
D3-3 Resident 15/06/2022 660 Avenue Road Visual, To be considered via project specific
Health Risks (EMF) LVIA and EMF assessment within the
project EIS
D3-4 Resident 15/06/2022 16/06/2022 760 Avenue Road Visual, To be considered via project specific
Traffic (road LVIA, TIA, BDAR, SIA, PHA and hydraulic
maintenance/dust), assessment
Land Value,
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SCOPING REPORT
entity as per
Figure 14
Biodiversity,
Political Pressure,
Community Involvement and
Power,
Safety,
Flooding.
D3-5 Resident 15/06/2022 16/06/2022 770 Avenue Road Visual, To be considered via project specific LVIA
Traffic (road and TIA.
maintenance/dust),
Land Value
D3-6 Resident 15/06/2022 16/06/2022 820 Avenue Road Owner Not Home/Locked
Gate/Guard Dog
D3-7 Shed 15/06/2022 16/06/2022 820 Avenue Road Owner Not Home/Locked
(same property as Gate/Guard Dog
D3-6 occupied by a
shed, no residential
use)
D3-8 Resident 15/06/2022 55 Ermelo Road Visual, To be considered via project specific
Land Value, LVIA, BDAR, TIA, SIA and through
ongoing engagement throughout the EIS
Prior Clearing,
preparation.
Biodiversity,
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SCOPING REPORT
entity as per
Figure 14
Additional Clearing,
Traffic (road
maintenance/dust),
Community Involvement and
Power,
Political Pressure.
D3-9 Resident 16/06/2022 14 Ermelo Road Owner Not Home/Locked
(includes 30 Ermelo Gate/Guard Dog
Road which is
under same
ownership).
D3-10 Resident 16/06/2022 60 Ermelo Road Owner Not Home/Locked

Gate/Guard Dog
D3-11 Resident 16/06/2022 777 Avenue Road Owner Not Home/Locked

Gate/Guard Dog
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SCOPING REPORT
entity as per
Figure 14
Gate/Guard Dog
D3-13 Resident 16/06/2022 832 Avenue Road Traffic (road To be considered via project specific TIA,
maintenance/dust), LUCRA, BDAR, PHA and bushfire
Boundary with project, assessment.
Additional Clearing,
Battery Location and Safety,
Bushfire Risks
D3-14 Resident 16/06/2022 865 Ellangowan Owner Not Home/Locked
Road Gate/Guard Dog
D3-15 Resident 16/06/2022 2170 Ellangowan Traffic (road To be considered via a project specific
Road maintenance/dust), TIA and SIA
Transportation route and
access,
Benefits to Community (wifi
and electricity networks).
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SCOPING REPORT
entity as per
Figure 14
D3-16 Resident 15/06/2022 635 Avenue Road Visual (minimal), To be considered via project specific
Traffic (road LVIA, TIA and hydraulic report.
maintenance/dust),
Flooding

Gate/Guard Dog
D3-18 Resident 15/06/2022 16/06/2022 70 Ermelo Road Visual, To be considered via project specific
Community Involvement and LVIA, SIA and TIA. Additional engagement
Power, throughout the EIS process.
Traffic (road
maintenance/dust),
Land value,
Political Pressure
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SCOPING REPORT
5.2 EIS Consultation

Consultation to inform the EIS preparation will be undertaken in accordance with the following guidelines:
• Large-Scale Solar Energy Guideline for State Significant Development (DPE 2018).
• Community and Stakeholder Engagement Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Guidance Series
(DP&E, 2017)
• Community Consultative Committee Guidelines State Significant Projects (DPE 2019) if a Community
Consultative Committee is required.
Richmond Valley Shire Council
Richmond Valley Shire Council will continue to be informed of the proposal and further face to face meetings
will be scheduled with the planning officers and elected officials. Initial discussions have not identified any
objections to the project – refer Appendix G.
Neighbours
Neighbours will continue to be consulted through information posted directly and face to face meetings as
requested to inform them of project details and progress and to obtain their input. This will continue through
the development approval process and construction.
Community
The community will be informed of the project through notices in the local newspaper and through
Richmond Valley Shire Council. Consultation will be considered depending on the amount of local interest for
an information day. Contact numbers and an email address will be provided for people who wish for more
details.
Special Interest Groups
Special interest groups will be informed of the project to the extent they are affected by the project. The
process of identifying affected groups has not commenced. As the development progresses and the
construction schedule becomes clearer, local businesses will be advised via notices and media and will be
invited to provide proposals for construction equipment, goods and services.
State and Federal Government
State and Federal government authorities will be informed of the project to the extent they are affected. The
NSW Department of Industry and Regional Development Australia will be advised to ensure any
opportunities to coordinate with the proposed infrastructure developments in relation to the RVSF are
captured. Elected representatives, State and federal elected members and the relevant ministers for Energy,
Environment and Regional Development will be advised of the project as it progresses to ensure it is
recognised for its contribution to state and federal clean energy development targets.
Local Land Services NSW will be informed of the project in accordance with the requirements set out in
Private Native Forestry Plan 06868 -refer Appendix B.
TransGrid
TransGrid will continue to be informed of the proposal and meetings will be scheduled with relevant
representatives. Initial discussions have not identified any objections to the project – refer Appendix H.
Other
Consultation will also be undertaken with the following stakeholders:
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SCOPING REPORT
• Members of the local Aboriginal community;

• Organisations representing local, regional, State, national and international interests regarding business,
community, indigenous and environmental issues; and
• Affected utility providers.
6. PROPOSED ASSESSMENT OF IMPACTS
6.1 Introduction
An initial review of information has been completed to provide a summary of matters requiring assessment
at EIS preparation stage and the level of assessment required for each issue. By reference to the DPIE
Scoping Report Guidelines (DPIE 2021), a number of factors have been considered through this process,
including:
• the scale and nature of the likely impact of the project and the sensitivity of the receiving environment;
• whether the project is likely to generate cumulative impacts with other relevant future projects in the
area; and
• the ability to avoid, minimise and/or offset the impacts of the project, to the extent known at the
scoping phase.
The following sections provide details on specific assessment areas. A summary table is provided at
Appendix A categorising these areas as per the Scoping Report Guidelines. The level of assessment
identified for each impact is summarised as follows:
• Detailed:
– Social impacts
• Standard:
– Land Use
– Heritage
– Hydrogeology
– Biodiversity
– Bushfire
– Access and traffic
– Visual impacts
– Noise and Vibration
– Air quality
– Waste
– Hazard
6.2 Social Impact

The site is located within the RVC LGA which has a population of 22,807 as at 2016. The LGA has an
unemployment rate of 7.7%, marginally greater than the 2016 NSW average of 6.3%. The largest employer is
the meat processing industry which supports 585 jobs followed by Aged Car Residential Services 326 jobs
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SCOPING REPORT
and Hospitals, 246 jobs. Major Occupations within the area included labourers (20.2%), technicians and trade
works (13.2%), community and personal service works (12.1%) and professionals (12%).
The Myrtle Creek statistical area has a population of 86 people While the availability of statistical information
for Myrtle Creek is restricted due to its current population, the suburb of Rappville has a population of 169
people and an unemployment rate of 19.5%. The majority of residents in Rappville are employed in industries
of Beef Cattle Farming, Log Sawmilling, Supermarket and Grocery Stores, Primary Education and Social
Assistance Services.
A Social Impact Assessment will be provided as part of the EIS in accordance with the Social Impact
Assessment Guidelines for State Significant Precincts 2021 (DPIE 2021). The Social Impact Assessment will be
proportionate with the scale, complexity and likely impacts and benefits of the project. A Social Impact
Assessment Scoping Worksheet has been prepared in accordance with the Guideline and is provided in
Appendix I.
6.2.1 GENERAL APPROACH

The general approach used for the research and preparation to inform the SIA is listed below.
6.2.1.1 Project setting and context

The project context sets out the preliminary information available about the project to determine the
potential impacts. The approach included a review of available information, understanding the area of
influence, potential impacts on stakeholders and local and state policies that may influence the project or
should otherwise be taken into consideration.
6.2.1.2 Consultation
The consultation has been undertaken by the proponent and will continue through the development of the
SIA. The approach will be designed to meet the requirements of the SEARs. Community and stakeholder
feedback to date is summarised in Section 5.
6.2.1.3 Social baseline development

The social baseline sets the current environment of the community within the social locality prior to the
project being introduced. It uses publicly available data to create a community profile for which the impact
identification and assessment can be completed.
The preliminary social baseline study was prepared using:
• existing demographic, health, housing, and socio-economic data from the ABS, government agencies,
and local government
• published literature and social research
• government policies and plans
• documents relating to similar projects.
The preliminary social baseline will be refined during the development of the SIA to provide the benchmark
against which potential social impacts have been identified and assessed and informs subsequent stages.
6.2.2 SOCIAL BASELINE

A social baseline study is a requirement of the New South Wales (NSW) Department of Planning, Industry,
and Environment’s (DPIE 2021) Social Impact Assessment Guideline, 2021. The baseline study describes the
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SCOPING REPORT
existing population and social conditions of potentially affected communities within the social impact
assessment (SIA) area of social influence which form the benchmark against which the social impacts are
assessed.
The Guideline states that a social baseline is crucial to understand the relevant pre-existing social pressures
(DPIE 2020). A social baseline analysis provides a background into the existing environment, associated
cultural and social values of the study area and Richmond Valley LGA. It also provides a benchmark against
which direct, indirect, and cumulative impacts can be analysed and change can be measured.
6.2.2.1 Social locality (Study area)

The area of social influence of the project is limited to the communities of Myrtle Creek, Ellangowan and
West Bungawalbin in the Richmond Valley LGA. This area of social influence was based on an assessment of
the communities likely to be impacted by the proposal and of the geographic proximity of residents to the
project site.
The project is located within the suburb of Myrtle Creek and may directly impact landowners, residents, and
businesses within the vicinity of the project site. Even though the project is contained within a defined area,
impacts (direct and indirect) may be farther reaching. The preliminary review considers two scales of study
areas: a local study area and a regional study area.
The local study area is defined as the area covered by the ABS state suburb (SSC) of Myrtle Creek. This is the
area most likely face impacts to local social infrastructure and services, local workforce, local business, local
housing and accommodation, and community health and wellbeing.
Broader impacts due to use of infrastructure, supply chains, haulage routes, transportation of materials and
equipment and workforce may affect a larger regional area. The regional study area is thus extended to
include the Richmond Valley (LGA). These areas will be mapped to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS)
categories used for data collection.
Table 7 – Study area
Study Area Geographic Area ABS data Referred to

category as:
Local study area Myrtle Creek (ABS Code SSC12879) (ABS 2016) SSC Local area
Regional study Richmond Valley (LGA) (ABS Code 16610) (ABS LGA Regional area
area 2016)
State of New NSW state NSW STE NSW
South
Wales
6.2.3 IMPACT IDENTIFICATION

The impact identification will be informed by the review of technical studies, feedback provided during the
consultation process and from the social baseline. This includes but not limited to:
• environmental constraints – review of specialist studies and similar projects in the area to identify
potential impacts
• existing social environment – demographic and social analysis from the baseline study
• data analysis and consultation findings –to identify potential impacts and benefits
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SCOPING REPORT
• local plans and policies –to understand local priorities and values.
During the completion of the social impact assessment worksheet, a number of issues and opportunities
were identified by the project team. The preliminary impacts and opportunities include:
• Construction activities will produce noise that disrupts nearby residents.

• Potential for increased noise at nearby houses during operation of the BESS
• Changes to the locality, landscape and visual amenity resulting from the project
• Dust and emissions from construction activity will negatively impact surrounding residents.
• Increased traffic during construction causing short-term disruptions to residents and commuters
• Improved grid access for renewable energy options through improved grid management
• Construction will provide direct jobs during the construction phase (approximately 200 FTE), indirect
jobs and benefit to a range of individuals and businesses
• The ongoing operation and maintenance of the facility will increase opportunities for employment
(approximately 4 FTE jobs) for local electricians and other suppliers, together with another
approximately 50 jobs associated with vegetation management, maintenance and equipment
inspections.
Once the assessment is complete, mitigation and enhancement measures will be developed to manage the
impacts associated with the project. These are intended to reduce the negative impacts and enhance the
positive ones. Management measures should include pre-construction, construction, operational and
decommissioning phases of the project.
6.3 Land Use

6.3.1 MINING
There are no existing exploration or mining titles or applications applying to the site. Details and implications
of any work conducted as part of the historic titles applying to the site are to be considered as part of the
EIS.
6.3.2 OTHER USES

The compatibility of the proposed project with the surrounding land uses, including consideration of the
surrounding land uses zones and existing uses would be completed, including a Land Use Conflict Risk
Assessment in accordance with the Department of Industry’s Land Use Conflict Risk Assessment Guide.
6.4 Heritage
The site is not identified as containing any items of Aboriginal or European heritage significance and is not
located within a heritage conservation area under the RVLEP. However, an AHIMS Basic on 18 August 2021
(Appendix C), identified a single Aboriginal site at 840 Main Camp Road, Myrtle Creek (Lot 16 in DP 755607),
approximately 350 metres from the southern boundary (refer to Figure 4). AHIMS Extensive search on 18
August 2021, records this site as a Modified Tree (Carved or Scarred).
The site eastern boundary of the site additionally borders a Native Title Determination Area (Bandjalang
People #2, Tribunal No: NCD2013/002), associated with Bungawalbin State Forest, Conservation Area and
National Park – refer Figure 4 and Appendix D.
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Accordingly, an Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment is expected to be needed to support the EIS,
identifying potential impacts and necessary management and mitigation measures.
Consideration of the potential for impacts to historic heritage would be incorporated within the body of the
EIS.
6.5 Hydrogeology
The proposed development is unlikely to impact groundwater due to not requiring extraction of
groundwater, the recorded depth to groundwater at the nearest groundwater boreholes (3.9 -7.55 metre
standing water level at the nearest groundwater boreholes, GW073357 and GW300918, within 50 metres of
the sites south- eastern boundary) and the minimal anticipated depth of construction. Methods by which
stormwater would be managed would be outlined as part of the EIS.
The suitability of the ground conditions for the proposed development and any potential for contamination
associated are to be addressed in a Geotechnical Report and Preliminary (Site) Contamination Investigation
to be provided as part of the EIS. Management of soil and water impacts during construction would be
addressed in a Construction Management Plan.
Although the proposed development is not situated on land identified as flood prone, the site contains
several small waterbodies together with a number of 1st and 2nd Strahler order streams which congregate
within the into a 3rd Strahler order stream that extends south-west to connect with Physics creek. Physics
Creek transects the south-eastern portion of the site and is mapped as containing biodiversity value.
A hydraulic analysis would be completed to ensure that impacts to exiting watercourses are manageable
and to confirm any potential for flood inundation over the land.
Where works are proposed in or near waterfront land, either impacts would be avoided through providing
adequate buffers, or works would be designed and constructed to ensure compliance with relevant Natural
Resource Access Regulator guidelines for works within or near waterfront land. If required, a riparian
management plan would be prepared.
6.6 Vegetation and Biodiversity

Biodiversity values associated with the site have been determined through analysis of a range of desktop
database searches, including the following:
• Threatened species listings under the EPBC and BC Acts

• Records of threatened species via a search of the NSW Bionet database
• A search of the PMST
• Groundwater Dependent Ecosystems Atlas
• Areas of outstanding biodiversity value declared under the BC Act
From a review of the above sources, the following threatened species are identified as occurring or likely to
occur within 10 km of the subject site (the locality).
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SCOPING REPORT
Table 8 – Threatened species with potential to be present on site
Type Scientific name Common name NSW BioNet PMST NSW Status Commonwealth
Status
Bird Botaurus poiciloptilus Australasian Bittern Recorded Known E E
Bird Rostratula australis Australian Painted Snipe Likely E E
Bird Ninox connivens Barking Owl Recorded V -
Bird Ixobrychus flavicollis Black Bittern Recorded V -
Bird Turnix melanogaster Black-breasted Button-quail May CE V
Bird Melithreptus gularis gularis Black-chinned Honeyeater (eastern Recorded V -

subspecies)
Bird Ephippiorhynchus asiaticus Black-necked Stork Recorded E -
Bird Climacteris picumnus victoriae Brown Treecreeper (eastern subspecies) Recorded V -
Bird Burhinus grallarius Bush Stone-curlew Recorded E -
Bird Irediparra gallinacea Comb-crested Jacana Recorded V -
Bird Cyclopsitta diophthalma coxeni Coxen's Fig-Parrot May CE E
Bird Calidris ferruginea Curlew Sandpiper May E CE
Bird Stagonopleura guttata Diamond Firetail Recorded V
Bird Artamus cyanopterus cyanopterus Dusky Woodswallow Recorded V -
Bird Numenius madagascariensis Eastern Curlew May - CE
Bird Pandion cristatus Eastern Osprey Recorded V -
Bird Dromaius novaehollandiae Emu population in the New South Wales Recorded Endangered -
North Coast Bioregion and Port Stephens Population
local government area
Bird Petroica phoenicea Flame Robin Recorded V -
Bird Calyptorhynchus lathami Glossy Black-Cockatoo Recorded V -
Bird Charadrius leschenaultii Greater Sand Plover, Large Sand Plover May V V
Bird Falco hypoleucos Grey Falcon Likely E V
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SCOPING REPORT
Status
Bird Pomatostomus temporalis Grey-crowned Babbler (eastern Recorded V -

temporalis subspecies)
Bird Melanodryas cucullata cucullata Hooded Robin (south-eastern form) Recorded V -
Bird Hieraaetus morphnoides Little Eagle Recorded V -
Bird Glossopsitta pusilla Little Lorikeet Recorded V -
Bird Tyto novaehollandiae Masked Owl Recorded V -
Bird Grantiella picta Painted Honeyeater May V V
Bird Ninox strenua Powerful Owl Recorded V -
Bird Erythrotriorchis radiatus Red Goshawk Recorded Known CE V
Bird Calyptorhynchus banksii banksii Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo (coastal Recorded CE -

subspecies)
Bird Anthochaera phrygia Regent Honeyeater Recorded Known CE CE
Bird Petroica boodang Scarlet Robin Recorded V -
Bird Tyto tenebricosa Sooty Owl Recorded V -
Bird Chthonicola sagittata Speckled Warbler Recorded V -
Bird Circus assimilis Spotted Harrier Recorded V -
Bird Lophoictinia isura Square-tailed Kite Recorded V -
Bird Lathamus discolor Swift Parrot Recorded Likely E CE
Bird Daphoenositta chrysoptera Varied Sittella Recorded V -
Bird Haliaeetus leucogaster White-bellied Sea-Eagle Recorded V -
Bird Hirundapus caudacutus White-throated Needletail Recorded Known - V
Bird Ptilinopus magnificus Wompoo Fruit-Dove Recorded V -
Frog Mixophyes iteratus Giant Barred Frog Recorded Known E E
Frog Litoria brevipalmata Green-thighed Frog Recorded V -
Frog Mixophyes balbus Stuttering Frog May E V
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SCOPING REPORT
Status
Frog Crinia tinnula Wallum Froglet Recorded V -
Insect Argynnis hyperbius inconstans Australian Fritillary May E CE
Insect Phyllodes imperialis smithersi Pink Underwing Moth May E E
Mammal Macropus dorsalis Black-striped Wallaby Recorded E -
Mammal Phascogale tapoatafa Brush-tailed Phascogale Recorded V -
Mammal Petrogale penicillata Brush-tailed Rock-wallaby Likely E V
Mammal Planigale maculata Common Planigale Recorded V -
Mammal Falsistrellus tasmaniensis Eastern False Pipistrelle Recorded V -
Mammal Nyctophilus bifax Eastern Long-eared Bat Recorded V -
Mammal Petauroides volans Greater Glider Recorded Known V E
Mammal Pteropus poliocephalus Grey-headed Flying-fox Recorded Known V V
Mammal Chalinolobus nigrogriseus Hoary Wattled Bat Recorded V -
Mammal Phascolarctos cinereus (combined Koala (combined populations of Recorded Known E E

populations of Qld, NSW and the Queensland, New South Wales and the
ACT) Australian Capital Territory)
Mammal Miniopterus orianae oceanensis Large Bent-winged Bat Recorded V -
Mammal Chalinolobus dwyeri Large-eared Pied Bat, Large Pied Bat Likely V V
Mammal Miniopterus australis Little Bent-winged Bat Recorded V -
Mammal Potorous tridactylus tridactylus Long-nosed Potoroo (northern) May V V
Mammal Pseudomys novaehollandiae New Holland Mouse, Pookila Recorded Known P V
Mammal Aepyprymnus rufescens Rufous Bettong Recorded CE -
Mammal Myotis macropus Southern Myotis Recorded V -
Mammal Dasyurus maculatus maculatus (SE Spotted-tail Quoll (southeastern mainland Recorded Known V E
mainland population) population)
Mammal Petaurus norfolcensis Squirrel Glider Recorded V -
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SCOPING REPORT
Status
Mammal Petaurus australis Yellow-bellied Glider (south-eastern) Recorded Known V V
Mammal Saccolaimus flaviventris Yellow-bellied Sheathtail-bat Recorded V -
Plant Paspalidium grandispiculatum a grass Known V V
Plant Thesium australe Austral Toadflax, Toadflax Likely V V
Plant Indigofera baileyi Bailey's Indigo Recorded E
Plant Dichanthium setosum bluegrass Likely V V
Plant Phyllanthus microcladus Brush Sauropus Recorded E -
Plant Leichhardtia longiloba Clear Milkvine Likely E V
Plant Arthraxon hispidus Hairy-joint Grass Likely V V
Plant Persicaria elatior Knotweed Likely V V
Plant Cryptostylis hunteriana Leafless Tongue-orchid May V V
Plant Phaius australis Lesser Swamp-orchid May E E
Plant Macadamia integrifolia Macadamia Nut May - V
Plant Olax angulata Minnie Waters Olax May V V
Plant Rhodomyrtus psidioides Native Guava Recorded Known CE CE
Plant Polygala linariifolia Native Milkwort Recorded E -
Plant Grevillea masonii null Likely E E
Plant Hibbertia marginata null Likely V V
Plant Tylophora woollsii null May E E
Plant Owenia cepiodora Onion Cedar Recorded V V
Plant Myrsine richmondensis Purple-leaf Muttonwood May E E
Plant Macadamia tetraphylla Rough-shelled Macadamia Likely V V
Plant Acacia ruppii Rupp's Wattle May E E
Plant Angophora robur Sandstone Rough-barked Apple May V V
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SCOPING REPORT
Status
Plant Rhodamnia rubescens Scrub Turpentine Known CE CE
Plant Eucalyptus glaucina Slaty Red Gum Recorded Known V V
Plant Eucalyptus tetrapleura Square-fruited Ironbark Known V V
Plant Cryptocarya foetida Stinking Cryptocarya Likely V V
Plant Gossia fragrantissima Sweet Myrtle May E E
Plant Cyperus aquatilis Water Nutgrass Recorded E -
Plant Melaleuca irbyana Weeping Paperbark Recorded E -
Plant Cynanchum elegans White-flowered Wax Plant May E E
Plant Oldenlandia galioides Recorded E -
Plant Rotala tripartita Recorded E -
Reptile Hoplocephalus bitorquatus Pale-headed Snake Recorded V -
Reptile Coeranoscincus reticulatus Three-toed Snake-tooth Skink Likely V V
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SCOPING REPORT
In 2020, the Wildlife and Threatened Species Bushfire Recovery Expert Panel identified 810 priority species
and ecological communities which require urgent management intervention after the 2019-20 bushfires.
These are species or communities which were affected through loss of habitat, food sources or direct impact
on populations. The list includes the following species which are predicted to occur on or near the site:
• Regent Honeyeater • New Holland Mouse
• Glossy Black-Cockatoo • Grey-headed Flying-fox
• Koala • Three-toed Snake-tooth Skink
• Yellow-bellied Glider • Stuttering Frog
• Greater Glider • Giant Barred Frog
• Brush-tailed Rock-wallaby • Rupp’s Wattle
• Long-nosed Potoroo • Rhodamnia rubescens
• Spotted-tail Quoll • Tylophora woollsii
Other relevant biodiversity characteristics are discussed in Table 9.
Table 9 – Biodiversity characteristics
Category Type/comment Status Presence

likelihood
Key fish habitat Northern Rivers dataset Fisheries Physics Creek (on
Management Act site) is mapped as
1994 Key fish habitat
Threatened Southern Purple Spotted Gudgeon Endangered Mapped as
Freshwater Fish occurring in an
unnamed stream
on the site
Groundwater Northern Rivers dataset High ecological value Occurs on site,
dependent (EPBC Act, BC Act, mapped for
ecosystems Fisheries unnamed creek
Management Act, and remnant
Water Management woodland areas in
Act 2000) northwest and
southeast on site.
Vegetation PCT 101 - Lowland Rainforest of Critically endangered Community likely
mapping and Subtropical Australia to occur within the
threatened area
ecological
communities PCT 142 – Coastal Swamp Oak Endangered Community likely
(Casuarina glauca) Forest of New to occur within the
South Wales and South East area
Queensland ecological community
PCT 171 - Coastal Swamp Sclerophyll Endangered Community known
Forest of New South Wales and South to occur within the
East Queensland area
While a site survey is necessary to quantify the extent of native vegetation occurring on site to be impacted
by the development, it should be noted that:
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SCOPING REPORT
• The site is predominantly cleared and disturbed for agricultural purposes, providing ample area for the
installation of solar farm infrastructure without harming extant native vegetation;
• Areas of contiguous extant native vegetation (predominantly along the site edges) and mapped
Biodiversity Values (along Physics Creek) are likely to be avoided;
• A Protected Matters search for potential MNES that may trigger the need for referral to the Australian
Department of Agriculture, Water and Environment, conducted with a 10 kilometre buffer of the site on
30/06/2022 (refer Appendix E):
– Did not identify any World Heritage Properties National Heritage Places or Wetlands protected by
the Commonwealth EPBC Act; and
– Identified three listed threatened ecological communities, 51 listed threatened species and 17
migratory species with the potential to occur in proximity to the site but are unlikely to occur due
to the substantially altered landscape.
• As noted, the site was historically the location of a plantation farming operation that impacted a
significant portion of the site. On this basis, the likelihood of the project site accommodating sensitive
species or habitats which would be impacted, and which would result in Serious and Irreversible Impacts
(SAIIs), is considered low.
The project will require a Biodiversity Development Assessment Report (BDAR) to assess impacts to
biodiversity in accordance with the BAM and requirements of the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 .
6.7 Bushfire
The majority of the site is mapped as Category 1 bushfire prone land. A portion of the site in Lot 1 DP
540060 is not mapped as bushfire prone land. The remainder of the site is mapped as Vegetation Buffer,
including along Physics Creek and within the corners of Lot 1 DP540060, Lot 32 DP755607 and Lot 57
DP755607.
It is noted that current mapping does not appear to represent the current state of vegetation on-site and
previous vegetation clearing.
The proposed SF and BESS has the potential to generate radiant heat and may have the potential to result in
impacts to bushfire threat levels. An assessment of impacts would be addressed within the body of the EIS
and would ensure that project parameters and the requirements of RFS and F&RNSW are clearly understood,
and that appropriate mitigation measures are put in place.
A bushfire assessment would be incorporated into the EIS.
6.8 Access and Traffic

Anticipated vehicular movements generated during the installation phase and subsequent operation phase
of the proposed BESS and the capacity of the surrounding road network to accommodate those movements
are to be addressed in the Traffic Impact Assessment to be provided as part of the EIS. Should upgrades to
the existing road network and access arrangements be required, these are to be detailed in the Traffic Impact
Assessment.
Materials are anticipated to be transported to the site from Port of Brisbane via the routes shown in
Figure 12. The construction vehicle haulage route would be considered further in the Traffic Impact
Assessment to be provided as part of the EIS.
PAGE 57
SCOPING REPORT
6.9 Visual Impact

An initial review of the potential for visual impacts has been prepared by Iris Visual and Planning (2022) and
is provided at Appendix J. Solar modules are to have an indicative maximum height of five metres. A plan
showing typical solar modules and the indicative solar array is to be provided as part of the EIS.
The development is situated in a generally visually protected location, with views obscured by surrounding
vegetation and topography. The Bungawalbin State Forest provides a buffer to the east of the development
while sporadic patches of vegetation obscure views from residential receivers to the north and west.
Visual impacts associated with the removal of vegetation are considered to be negligible as the majority of
the site is already cleared.
Minor potential impacts to surrounding sensitive receptors may include changes to existing views. An
assessment of visual impacts would form part of the EIS identifying potential impacts along with necessary
management and mitigation measures, and consideration of potential cumulative impacts with the Beresfield
substation.
Iris note:
The potential visibility of the project (refer to Figure C: Potential Visual Catchment) has been
identified through an analysis based on a digital surface model (includes terrain, built form and
vegetation) derived from LiDAR point cloud data. This analysis shows the pattern of potential
visibility and is a basis for fieldwork verification. This analysis considers views to the
infrastructure within the proposed development footprint (panel arrays and inverters).
Based on this analysis, the site is expected to have a very small visual catchment, with the site
being largely enclosed by landform and vegetation to the west, north west, northeast, east and
south.
This analysis shows views being contained to areas near to the site, including:
• Avenue Road, as it passes through the site

• north facing slopes to the south of Avenue Road extending about 250 to 500 metres, and
• south facing slopes to the north of the site, extending about 1.2 kilometres.
Not all areas of the project development footprint would be seen from any area within this
visual catchment. Figure D (refer to Figure D: Pattern of potential visibility) shows the visual
catchment of smaller areas of the site, from west to east. This analysis generally shows that the
westernmost and easternmost areas of the solar farm development investigation area would
have limited visual catchments, and that the central areas of the project are more likely to seen
from areas to the north of the site. The western and central areas would be seen from Avenue
Road.
Not all areas within the potential visual catchment would have a similar view to the proposal.
Further analysis has been undertaken to examine the proportion of the development footprint
that would be seen from the areas within the visual catchment (refer to Figure E: Potential
Extent of Visibility).
Views from private residential dwellings
PAGE 58
SCOPING REPORT
While there are existing residential dwellings in small clusters and scattered across the
surrounding rural landscape, the visual catchment does not extend to include many private
residential dwellings. In particular, the group of residential dwellings to the southwest of the site
are not expected to have views of the project. The heritage property, Main Camp Homestead, to
the south of the project, is also not be expected to have views to the project.
There would, however, be the potential for views to the development footprint from the
residential dwellings on rural properties on the elevated land to the north of the site, near the
junction of Avenue and Ermela roads. Of this group of 17 dwellings, the closest six to seven
dwellings within about 1.2 kilometres of the site have the potential for a view to the project
(refer to Figure C: Potential Visual Catchment). The analysis contained in Figure E shows that
the visual catchment to the north of the site having the potential for a view to either 1-10% or
11-20% of the proposed development footprint. Therefore, from these private residential
dwellings, there is the potential for a small proportion of the overall proposal to be seen (refer
to Figure E: Potential Extent of Visibility) due to landform and intervening vegetation.
Views from Avenue Road
Avenue Road is a local road extending east between Main Camp Road in the southwest and
Myall Creek Road in the northeast. Avenue Road passes through the north western part of the
site for about three kilometres. There would be close range views to the project from this
section of the road (refer to Figure F: Visual catchment of Avenue Road). In these views, the
development footprint (solar panel arrays) would be seen, with a backdrop of vegetation formed
by the surrounding forested areas on elevated land.
Views from the Main Camp heritage property
The visual catchment (refer to Figure E: Potential Extent of Visibility) does not extend to the
south towards the Main Camp heritage property. This is due to localised screening vegetation
within the project site.
Views of the potential Substation and BESS site
The proposed substation and BESS site has been proposed for the north western corner of the
site. While on a slightly elevated location, the vegetation to the north and west of the site would
restrict the potential visual catchment of the site. This vegetation together with the landform
would contain views to the BESS and substation to areas within the site. Furthermore, the
location of these elements at the point within the site that is nearest to the location of the
330kV powerline easement, west of the site, would limit the need for additional transmission line
infrastructure within the site infrastructure across the landscape.
It is proposed that the transmission line will extend west from the substation and BESS site,
through an area of existing bushland. While this will require the removal of vegetation, this
route would have limited visibility from surrounding areas due to the surrounding vegetation.
6.10 Noise and Vibration

Potential Noise and vibration impacts are anticipated to be limited by the developments distance to
residential receivers, surrounding vegetation and topography.
PAGE 59
SCOPING REPORT
Although noise and vibration impacts are expected to occur during both construction and operation of the
project, they are expected to be primarily limited to the construction stage. In relation to construction
activities impacts would include preparatory earthworks, delivery, and assembly of the SF and BESS
infrastructure. Impacts during operation would include the operation of the BESS and noise from associated
vehicles.
The potential noise and vibration impact of the construction and operation BESS on nearby sensitive
receivers would be considered in a Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment to be provided as part of the EIS.
The Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment will be prepared in accordance with the:
• NSW Interim Construction Noise Guideline (DECC 2009);

• NSW Noise Policy for Industry (EPA 2017);
• NSW Road Noise Policy (DECCW 2011); and
• Assessing Vibration: A Technical Guideline (DECC 2006).
6.11 Air Quality

Air quality impacts arising from dust generation and vehicle emissions during construction are to be assessed
as part of the Air Quality Impact Assessment to be provided as part of the EIS and managed in accordance
with a Construction Management Plan.
6.12 Waste
The likely waste generation associated with the proposed SF and BESS, would mainly occur during the
construction stage and may include green waste from cleared vegetation, construction materials, general
waste from site personnel and spoil. Waste generated during the operation of the proposed SF and BESS is
expected to be minimal.
Most solar and battery components are expected to be readily recyclable at end of life
Waste Generation would be assessed as part of a Waste Management Plan and managed in accordance with
a Construction Management Plan to be provided as part of the EIS.
6.13 Hazard
Impacts from an electromagnetic field (EMF) may be generated by transmission lines and underground
cables. EMF risks are expected to be below the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation
Protection (ICNIRP) guidelines (adopted by the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency,
ARPANSA).
Lithium batteries are identified as Class 9 under the Australian Dangerous Goods Code (National Transport
Commission 2020). Under the Hazardous and Offensive Development Application Guidelines – Applying SEPP
33 (Department of Planning 2011) given effect under Clause 4.14 of State Environmental Planning Policy
(Resilience and Hazards) 2021, Class 9 goods do not exceed the screening thresholds as they “pose little
threat to people or property” (Department of Planning 2011, p. 33).
Nevertheless, there is a perception that components of the proposed development, primarily the inclusion of
a switching station and BESS, may significantly alter the EMF within a locality and thereby cause harm to
residents and the environment.
Accordingly, a Preliminary Hazard Analysis (PHA) is to be provided as part of the EIS and will assess EMF
levels associated with the proposed infrastructure.
PAGE 60
SCOPING REPORT
6.14 Cumulative Impact

A review of public record information for large scale projects with the potential to generate cumulative
impacts within 10 kilometres of the site identifies:
• A 100-megawatt SF development, including a 100-megawatt hour BESS, in adjacent land to the south
west of the site (Lot 2 of DP540060 and Lots 26, 27 and 28 of DP755607).
• No other large-scale projects within a 10-kilometre radius of the site. The next closest large-scale
projects, consist of The Pacific Highway- Devils Pulpit (Determination stage) approximately 20.8 km
south-east and Croaki Quarry Mod 2 (Determination stage) approximately 22.8 km north east.
Although the proposed development is situated within close proximity to another Solar Farm Development it
is sufficiently separated from other surrounding developments such that the generation of significant
cumulative impacts is expected to be limited. There is the potential for cumulative visual and noise impacts of
the project and the Beresfield substation.
Further analysis of the potential for cumulative impacts would be addressed in detail in the EIS in accordance
with Guidelines for State Significant Projects (DPIE 2021), including the potential for cumulative impacts
associated with the adjacent substation.
7. REFERENCES
Table 10 – References
References
Australian Government Department of the Environment (DoE). (n.d.). Australian Heritage Database.
Retrieved from: http://www.environment.gov.au/topics/heritage/publications-and-resources/australian-
heritage-database
NSW Department of Planning and Environment (DPIE). (2016). Community Consultative Committee
Guidelines.
NSW Department of Planning and Environment (DPIE). (2017). North Coast Regional Plan 2036. Retrieved
from: https://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/-/media/Files/DPE/Plans-and-policies/north-coast-2036-
regional-plan-2017.pdf
NSW Department of Planning and Environment (DPIE). (2018). Large-Scale Solar Energy Guideline for
State Significant Development. Retrieved from: https://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/-
/media/Files/DPE/Guidelines/large-scale-solar-energy-guideline-2018-12-11.pdf?la=en
NSW Department of Planning and Environment (DPIE). (2017). Guideline for Engaging Stakeholders.
NSW EPA. (n.d.). Contaminated Land Record. Retrieved from:
https://apps.epa.nsw.gov.au/prclmapp/searchregister.aspx
NSW EPA. (n.d.). List of NSW contaminated sites notified to EPA. Retrieved from:
https://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/-/media/epa/corporate-site/resources/clm/site-list/contaminated-sites-list-
pdf-october-2020.pdf?la=en&hash=EB6E9B830133B6A4187C81847B58BFCDBF5753AF
NSW Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH). (n.d). Aboriginal Heritage Information Management
System (AHIMS) Retrieved from:
http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/licences/AboriginalHeritageInformationManagementSystem .htm.
[Accessed 18 August 2021].
PAGE 61
SCOPING REPORT
References
NSW Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH). (n.d.). State Heritage Register. Retrieved from:
http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/heritageapp/heritagesearch.aspx#amapsearch [Accessed 18 August
2021].
Richmond Valley Council et al. (2020). Richmond Valley Local Strategic Planning Statement: Beyond 20-
20 Vision. Retrieved from: https://richmondvalley.nsw.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Richmond-
Valley-Council-Local-Strategic-Planning-Statement-2020-Vision-May-2020.pdf
Richmond Valley Council et al. (2017). Richmond Valley Made 2030 Community Strategic Plan . Retrieved
from: https://richmondvalley.nsw.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Richmond-Valley-Made-2030-
Community-Strategic-Plan-Adopted-by-Council-on-27-June-2017.3.pdf
PAGE 62
SCOPING REPORT
APPENDIX A
SCOPING REPORT SUMMARY TABLE
PAGE 63
SCOPING REPORT
Level of Matter CIA Engagement Relevant Government Plans, Policies and Guidelines Scoping
Assessment Report
Reference
Detailed Social Impact Y Specific Social Impact Assessment Guidelines for State Significant Projects 6.2
(Department of Planning Industry and Environment, 2021)
Environmental Planning and Impact Assessment Practice Note: Socio-
economic Assessment (Roads and Maritime Services, 2013).
Standard Land Use N Specific Surface Development Guideline 5 – Active Mining Areas – Moderate 6.3
Predicted Subsidence Impact (Subsidence Advisory NSW, 2018)
Development Application – Merit Assessment Policy (Subsidence
Advisory NSW, 2018)
Department of Industry’s Land Use Conflict Risk Assessment Guide
Standard Heritage N Specific NSW Skeletal Remains: Guidelines for Management of Human Remains 6.4
(Heritage Office, 1998)
Criteria for the Assessment of Excavation Directors (NSW Heritage
Council, 2011).
Standard Hydrogeology Y Specific Acid Sulphate Soils Assessment Guidelines (Department of Planning, 6.5
2008)
Managing Land Contamination: Planning Guidelines SEPP 55 –
Remediation of Land (Department of Urban Affairs and Planning and
Environment Protection Authority, 1998)
Managing Urban Stormwater: Soils and Construction Volume 1
(Landcom, 2004)
(Department of Environment and Climate Change, 2008)
Approved Methods for the Sampling and Analysis of Water Pollutants in
NSW (Department of Environment and Climate Change, 2008)
Australian and New Zealand Guidelines for Fresh and Marine Water
Quality (ANZECC / ARMCANZ, 2000)
Using the ANZECC Guidelines and Water Quality Objectives in NSW
PAGE 64
SCOPING REPORT
(Department of Environment and Conservation, 2006)
(Landcom 2004) and Volume 2 (A. Installation of Services; B. Waste
Landfills; C. Unsealed Roads; D. Main Roads; E. Mines and Quarries)
(DECC 2008)
NSW Government’s Floodplain Development Manual (2005)
Standard Biodiversity Y Specific Refer to Section 6.6 of the Scoping Report. 6.6
Standard Bushfire N Specific Planning for Bushfire Protection 2019 6.7
Standard Access and Y Specific Guide to Traffic Management – Part 3 Traffic Studies and Analysis 6.8
Traffic (Austroads, 2013)
Guide to Traffic Generating Developments Version 2.2 (RTA, 2002)
Standard Visual Impact Y General Refer to Section 6.9 of the Scoping Report. 6.9
Standard Noise and Y General Construction Noise Strategy (Transport for NSW, 2012) 6.10
Vibration Interim Construction Noise Guideline (Department of Environment,
Climate Change and Water, 2009)
NSW Industrial Noise Policy (Environment Protection Authority, 2000)
NSW Road Noise Policy (Environment Protection Authority, 2011)
Assessing Vibration: A Technical Guideline (Department of Environment
and Conservation, 2006)
German Standard DIN 4150-3: Structural Vibration – Effects of Vibration
on Structures
Environmental Noise Management Assessing Vibration: A Technical
Guideline (Department of Environment and Conservation, 2006)
Technical Basis for Guidelines to Minimise Annoyance due to Blasting
Overpressure and Ground Vibration (Australian and New Zealand
Environment Council, 1990).
Standard Air Quality Y General The Approved Methods for the Modelling and Assessment of Air 6.11
Pollutants in NSW (EPA 2016)
NSW’s Sustainable Design Guidelines (Version 3.0) (Transport for NSW,
PAGE 65
SCOPING REPORT
2013)
Greenhouse Gas Inventory Guide for Construction Projects (Transport for
NSW, 2012).
Standard Waste N General Waste Classification Guidelines (DECCW, 2009) 6.12
Standard Hazard N General Hazardous and Offensive Development Application Guidelines: Applying 6.13
SEPP 33 (DoP 2011)
International Standard (ISO / IEC 31010) Risk Management – Risk
Assessment Technique
Australian Code for the Transport of Dangerous Goods by Road and Rail
(7th edition) (National Transport Commission, 2007)
Storage and Handling of Dangerous Goods Code of Practice
(WorkCover, 2005).
PAGE 66
SCOPING REPORT
APPENDIX B
LOCAL LAND SERVICES PNP-PLAN-06868
PAGE 67
i,tk
-- Local Land
NSW Services
GOVERNMENT
Part 5B Local Land Services Act 2013
PRIVATE NATIVE FORESTRY PLAN

PN F-Plan-06868
255 Avenue Road , MYRTLE CREEK
a) This Private Native Forestry Plan (PNF Plan) applies to the land identified as "PNF area"
as shown on the map described in Schedule One of this plan, within the land parcels
described as (LoVSection/Deposited Plan) 34//755607, 32//755607, ("the land).
b) All forestry operations must be carried out in accordance with Private Native Forestry
Code of Practice for Northern NSW (Northern NSW PNF code of practice), as current
from time to time.
c) This PNF Plan will commence from the date on which it is approved by the Local Land
Services, under Part 5B of the Local Land Services Act 2013.
d} This PNF Plan will have effect for fifteen years from the date on which it was approved by
Local Land Services.
e) This PNF Plan is subject to the conditions in Schedule Two.
Note:
Any person who carries out forestry operations under this PNF Plan must comply with the
requirements of the applicable private native forestry code of practice (PNF Code). This
applies to both landholders and any other persons who carry out forestry operations. As at the
date of approval of this PNF Plan, the applicable PNF Code is the Private Native Forestry Code
of Practice for Northern NSW (Northern NSW PNF code of practice), published in the Gazette
on 16-Aug-2013. However, the applicable PNF Code may change over time. Prior to carrying
out forestry operations under this PNF Plan, advice should be sought from Local Land Services
to identify the applicable PNF Code.
case number: 27092 Page 1 of 3

I •
SCHEDULE ONE - MAP

The attached map forms part of this PNF Plan. The land subject to this PNF Plan is indicated
on the attached map as "PNF area". The map includes those landscape features and drainage
features for which digital information is held by Local Land Services at the time of this Plan
being made.
SCHEDULE TWO - STANDARD CONDITIONS

Words and phrases used
1. In this Schedule:
"forestry operations" to which this PNF Plan applies are as set out in clause 2 of this
Schedule.
"Land" means the Lot(s)/Section(s)/Deposited Plan(s) on which the PNF area to
which the PNF Plan applies is located.
"Landholder" means a person/s who is a party to this PNF Plan.
"PNF area" means the land to which this PNF Plan applies as set out in Schedule
Forestry operations
2. This PNF Plan authorises the following forestry operations (as defined in the Local Land
Services Act 2013) to be carried out in a sustainable manner on the PNF area;
a. logging operations-namely the cutting and removal of timber from land for the
purpose of timber production, or
b. the harvesting of forest products-namely the harvesting of the products of trees
and other vegetation (other than timber) that are of economic value, or
c. ongoing forest management operations-namely activities relating to the
management of land for timber production such as thinning, burning and other
silvicultural activities, or
d. ancillary activities to enable or assist in the above operations such as the provision
of roads, snig tracks, waterway crossings and temporary timber storage facilities.
3. For the avoidance of doubt, this PNF Plan does not authorise any other forestry
operations to be carried out.
Sale of the Land
4. The Landholder agrees to notify Local Land Services of the sale of all or any part of the
Land.
Subdivision and Boundary adjustment
5. The Landholder agrees to notify Local Land Services of any proposal to subdivide or
adjust the boundary of the Land.
6. The Landholder agrees to submit to Local Land Services separate draft PNF Plans
relating to the Land as subdivided, in the same or similar terms to this PNF Plan, if so
requested by the regulatory authority.
Notification of commencement and completion of forestry operations

7. The Landholder must notify Local Land Services upon or immediately prior to the
commencement of forestry operations and at the completion of the forestry operations
under this PNF plan.
Case number: 27092 Page 2 of 3

I
Notes
1. Forestry operations authorised b th1.
under the Biodiversity Con t~ s PNF Plan do not require any further approval
I . serva ton Act 2016 or the Local Land Services Act 2013.
I
2. However, m order to carry o t th . ..
may be required to bt . tuh e activities authorised by this PNF Plan, the Landholder
0 am o er approvals from other government agencies.
3. Personal
Privac information contame · d. .m this
. PNF plan will be treated in accordance with the
nd
Y a Perso~al Information Protection Act 1998, under which you have rights of
access and correction.
4· Certain information contained in this PNF plan:
(a) will be included on the register of PNF plans, which will be publicly available on the
Internet.
(b) may be used for compliance and statistical purposes.
(c) may be disclosed in circumstances where disclosure is otherwise required or
authorised by law, including the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009.
5. Authorised officers of the Environment Protection Authority may monitor compliance
with this Plan. All activities authorised by this Plan must be carried out in accordance
with this Plan and in accordance with the relevant private native forestry code of
practice.
6. If a dispute arises between Local Land Services and the Landholder in respect of the
activities authorised by this Plan, Local Land Services will, if practical, attempt to settle
that dispute by negotiation in the first instance, prior to taking any steps to terminate the
Plan. This Note does not apply to any potential contravention of this Plan or the
applicable Code of Practice and does not affect any legal powers of Local Land
Services.
CONNOLLY CONSTRUCTION 00162365~0_ _ _ _ __ _

COMPANY PTY LTD Australian Company Number
Name of Landholder (Company)
Alma Irene Connolly ---· (L C..U-,,.,v14 Date

Signature
Name of Company Director
l'c -~-~ao .
~P:..::a::::ul:...:.F.:..:ran:::;c::::is::....:C~o=nn::.::o=lly,___________ _ Date
Name of Company Director
\q g ?,,oW
Date proved
under-
Name of th del ate of Local Land Servi
Part 5B of th oca/ Land SeNices t 201
Page 3 of 3
Case number: 27092
I""'
DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING, INDUSTRY AND ENVIRONMENT (OPIE)

-Opvf
BIONETATLAS DATA TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF USE
1. DEFINITION OF TERMS:
1.1 "Licensor" shall mean the Secretary of the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and
Environment.
1.2 /:b,v.,l I IJ/rna ar.o/ Greg U)l')llo/1

"Licensee" shall mean of
&>S'S Aven\K. ,-.,!"]¥"He &d c24b9
1.3 "Data" shall mean relevant records from DPIE's BioNet Atlas on, or within 500 metres of, the
area for which the Licensee is preparing a Forest Operation Plan. For the purposes of this
Agreement, relevant records are records which occur within the 20 years previous to the date
of record extraction, with a geographic accuracy of 100m or better, for threatened species
listed with ecological prescriptions under the Private Native Forestry Code of Practice, and
which do not occur on State Forests or National Parks Estate.
1.4 "Licence" shall mean the right to use the Data, for and limited to the purposes specified below,
granted by the Licensor to the Licensee under the conditions of this Agreement.
2. LICENCE
2.1 The Licensor hereby grants the Licensee a non-exclusive and non-transferable Licence to use
the Data, subject always to the conditions in this Agreement.
2.2 The Data and copyright and other intellectual property rights in the Data are and shall remain
the property of the copyright holder.
3. CONDITIONS OF USE
3.1 The Data will only be used pursuant to the Private Native Forestry Code of Practice for the
production of a Forest Operation Plan (FOP) for the Licensee's property, and for carrying out
activities in accordance with tile FOP.
3.2 Contractors and consultants to the Licensee engaged for the purposes described in 3.1 may
access the Data provided they agree in writing to the following clause:
"Data from Department of Planning, Industry and Environment's BioNet Atlas are to be used
exclusively for the completion of this contract in accordance with the Private Native Forestry
Code of Practice, and any copies of the Data held by the contractor are to be destroyed at the
completion of the contract. The contractor must safeguard the Data from unauthorised access
while they are in their possession. The Data are not to be provided to any third party".
3.3 Third parties who have not agreed in writing to the clause specified in 3.2, may view the
location but not the identity of any individual BioNet Atlas flora or fauna record supplied
under this licence.
3.4 Otherwise the Data must not be copied or distributed to any third parties, in whole or in part, or
used for any other purpose, without the express written permission of the NSW OPIE.
3.5 Adequate security measures must be enforced to safeguard the Data from unauthorized
access or use by third parties.
4. LIABILITY
4.1 The Licensee acknowledges the Data may contain errors or omissions.
4.2 No representations are made by the Licensor as to the accuracy of Data provided.
COPY
4.3 The Lic~nsee h~re~_Y releases and indemnifies, and will keep indemnified, the Licensor from
and against all hab1hty whatsoever in respect of the Data or otherwise whether for breach of
~hi~ Agreement, neglige~ce, injury, death, economic loss, loss of reputation or damages
incidental or consequential to the provisions of this Agreement.
5.DURATION
5.1 The Licensor reserves the right to terminate this licence at any time by notification to the
Licensee in writing. Upon such notification, all copies of the Data held (including derived data)
must be destroyed. At the termination of this licence a new agreement may be negotiated at
the discretion of the Licensor.
6. LAW OF AGREEMENT
6.1 This Agreement will be governed by and construed in accordance with the law for the time being
in force in the State of New South Wales.
Dated Ito ·~-Jo;).o .

SIGNED by
In the presence of
SIGNED by the authorized delegate of the Secretary of the NSW Department of Planning, Industry
and Environment ,,.,.--~
~ ~ i o . r J · e a m Leader, BioNetDated 20/8/2020
- ·Ian Gee1s" ____ ___

In the presence of
Note: This license applies to an enquiry regarding private native forestry under the
Part 58 Local Land Services Act 2013 .
Landholder: CONNOLLY CONSTRUCTION COMPANY PTY LTD
ACN: 001 623 650
Case Number: 27092
Property: 255 Avenue Road , MYRTLE CREEK
PLEASE POST THE SIGNED LICENSE AGREEMENT TO:

JORDAN GIBSON
Land Services Officer
LOCAL LAND SERVICES
Postal Address: 24-26 Mulgi Drive Grafton NSW 2640
SCOPING REPORT
APPENDIX C
AHIMS SEARCH RESULTS
PAGE 68
AHIMS Web Services (AWS)
Search Result Your Ref/PO Number : 222027_Rapville
Client Service ID : 614939
Premise Australia Pty Ltd Date: 18 August 2021

154 Peisley Street
Orange New South Wales 2800
Attention: Latisha Ryall
Email: latisha.ryall@premise.com.au
Dear Sir or Madam:
AHIMS Web Service search for the following area at Datum :GDA, Zone : 56, Eastings : 499639.0 -
509639.0, Northings : 6774882.0 - 6784882.0 with a Buffer of 0 meters, conducted by Latisha Ryall on 18
August 2021.
The context area of your search is shown in the map below. Please note that the map does not accurately
display the exact boundaries of the search as defined in the paragraph above. The map is to be used for
general reference purposes only.
A search of Heritage NSW AHIMS Web Services (Aboriginal Heritage Information Management System) has shown
that:
1 Aboriginal sites are recorded in or near the above location.
0 Aboriginal places have been declared in or near the above location. *
If your search shows Aboriginal sites or places what should you do?
You must do an extensive search if AHIMS has shown that there are Aboriginal sites or places recorded in the
search area.
If you are checking AHIMS as a part of your due diligence, refer to the next steps of the Due Diligence Code of
practice.
You can get further information about Aboriginal places by looking at the gazettal notice that declared it.
Aboriginal places gazetted after 2001 are available on the NSW Government Gazette
(https://www.legislation.nsw.gov.au/gazette) website. Gazettal notices published prior to 2001 can be
obtained from Heritage NSW upon request
Important information about your AHIMS search
The information derived from the AHIMS search is only to be used for the purpose for which it was requested. It
is not be made available to the public.
AHIMS records information about Aboriginal sites that have been provided to Heritage NSW and Aboriginal
places that have been declared by the Minister;
Information recorded on AHIMS may vary in its accuracy and may not be up to date. Location details are
recorded as grid references and it is important to note that there may be errors or omissions in these recordings,
Some parts of New South Wales have not been investigated in detail and there may be fewer records of
Aboriginal sites in those areas. These areas may contain Aboriginal sites which are not recorded on AHIMS.
Aboriginal objects are protected under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 even if they are not recorded as
a site on AHIMS.
This search can form part of your due diligence and remains valid for 12 months.
Level 6, 10 Valentine Ave, Parramatta 2150 ABN 34 945 244 274

Locked Bag 5020 Parramatta NSW 2124 Email: ahims@environment.nsw.gov.au
Tel: (02) 9585 6345 Web: www.heritage.nsw.gov.au
AHIMS Web Services (AWS) Your Ref/PO Number : 222027_Rapville
Extensive search - Site list report Client Service ID : 614939
SiteID SiteName Datum Zone Easting Northing Context Site Status ** SiteFeatures SiteTypes Reports
13-1-0116 Culgoa St38 AGD 56 503538 6779833 Open site Valid Modified Tree
(Carved or Scarred) :
1
Contact Gerry Saals Recorders Craig Wall Permits
** Site Status
Valid - The site has been recorded and accepted onto the system as valid
Destroyed - The site has been completely impacted or harmed usually as consequence of permit activity but sometimes also after natural events. There is nothing left of the site on the ground but proponents should proceed with caution.
Partially Destroyed - The site has been only partially impacted or harmed usually as consequence of permit activity but sometimes also after natural events. There might be parts or sections of the original site still present on the ground
Not a site - The site has been originally entered and accepted onto AHIMS as a valid site but after further investigations it was decided it is NOT an aboriginal site. Impact of this type of site does not require permit but Heritage NSW should be notified
Report generated by AHIMS Web Service on 18/08/2021 for Latisha Ryall for the following area at Datum :GDA, Zone : 56, Eastings : 499639.0 - 509639.0, Northings : 6774882.0 - 6784882.0
with a Buffer of 0 meters.. Number of Aboriginal sites and Aboriginal objects found is 1
This information is not guaranteed to be free from error omission. Heritage NSW and its employees disclaim liability for any act done or omission made on the information and consequences of such acts or omission. Page 1 of 1
SCOPING REPORT
APPENDIX D
NATIVE TITLE INFORMATION
PAGE 69
NNTR attachment: NCD2013/002
Annexure B to Schedule One - Map of the Consent Determination Area
Page 30 of 57, A3, 2/12/2013
SCOPING REPORT
APPENDIX E
PROTECTED MATTERS SEARCH TOOL (PMST) RESULTS
PAGE 70
EPBC Act Protected Matters Report
This report provides general guidance on matters of national environmental significance and other matters
protected by the EPBC Act in the area you have selected. Please see the caveat for interpretation of
information provided here.
Report created: 30-Jun-2022
Summary
Details
Matters of NES
Other Matters Protected by the EPBC Act
Extra Information
Caveat
Acknowledgements
Summary
Matters of National Environment Significance
This part of the report summarises the matters of national environmental significance that may occur in, or may
relate to, the area you nominated. Further information is available in the detail part of the report, which can be
accessed by scrolling or following the links below. If you are proposing to undertake an activity that may have a
significant impact on one or more matters of national environmental significance then you should consider the
Administrative Guidelines on Significance.
World Heritage Properties: None

National Heritage Places: None
Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar None
Great Barrier Reef Marine Park: None
Commonwealth Marine Area: None
Listed Threatened Ecological Communities: 3
Listed Threatened Species: 51
Listed Migratory Species: 17

This part of the report summarises other matters protected under the Act that may relate to the area you nominated.
Approval may be required for a proposed activity that significantly affects the environment on Commonwealth land,
when the action is outside the Commonwealth land, or the environment anywhere when the action is taken on
Commonwealth land. Approval may also be required for the Commonwealth or Commonwealth agencies proposing to
take an action that is likely to have a significant impact on the
The EPBC Act protects the environment on Commonwealth land, the environment from the actions taken on
Commonwealth land, and the environment from actions taken by Commonwealth agencies. As heritage values of a
place are part of the 'environment', these aspects of the EPBC Act protect the Commonwealth Heritage values of a
Commonwealth Heritage place. Information on the new heritage laws can be found at
http://www.environment.gov.au/heritage
A permit may be required for activities in or on a Commonwealth area that may affect a member of a listed threatened
species or ecological community, a member of a listed migratory species, whales and other cetaceans, or a member of
a listed marine species.
Commonwealth Lands: None

Commonwealth Heritage Places: None
Listed Marine Species: 22
Whales and Other Cetaceans: None
Critical Habitats: None
Commonwealth Reserves Terrestrial: None
Australian Marine Parks: None
Habitat Critical to the Survival of Marine Turtles: None
Extra Information
This part of the report provides information that may also be relevant to the area you have
State and Territory Reserves: 7
Regional Forest Agreements: 1
Nationally Important Wetlands: 1
EPBC Act Referrals: 2
Key Ecological Features (Marine): None
Biologically Important Areas: None
Bioregional Assessments: 1
Geological and Bioregional Assessments: None
Details
Matters of National Environmental Significance
Listed Threatened Ecological Communities [ Resource Information ]
For threatened ecological communities where the distribution is well known, maps are derived from recovery
plans, State vegetation maps, remote sensing imagery and other sources. Where threatened ecological
community distributions are less well known, existing vegetation maps and point location data are used to
produce indicative distribution maps.
Status of Vulnerable, Disallowed and Ineligible are not MNES under the EPBC Act.
Community Name Threatened Category Presence Text Buffer Status
Coastal Swamp Oak (Casuarina glauca) Endangered Community likely to In feature area
Forest of New South Wales and South occur within area
East Queensland ecological community
Coastal Swamp Sclerophyll Forest of Endangered Community known to In feature area

New South Wales and South East occur within area
Queensland
Lowland Rainforest of Subtropical Critically Endangered Community likely to In feature area

Australia occur within area
Listed Threatened Species [ Resource Information ]

Status of Conservation Dependent and Extinct are not MNES under the EPBC Act.
Number is the current name ID.
Scientific Name Threatened Category Presence Text Buffer Status
BIRD
Anthochaera phrygia
Regent Honeyeater [82338] Critically Endangered Species or species In feature area
habitat known to
occur within area
Botaurus poiciloptilus
Australasian Bittern [1001] Endangered Species or species In feature area
habitat known to
occur within area
Calidris ferruginea
Curlew Sandpiper [856] Critically Endangered Species or species In feature area
habitat may occur
within area
Charadrius leschenaultii
Greater Sand Plover, Large Sand Plover Vulnerable Species or species In buffer area only
[877] habitat may occur
within area
Cyclopsitta diophthalma coxeni
Coxen's Fig-Parrot [59714] Endangered Species or species In feature area
habitat may occur
within area
Erythrotriorchis radiatus
Red Goshawk [942] Vulnerable Species or species In feature area
habitat known to
occur within area
Falco hypoleucos
Grey Falcon [929] Vulnerable Species or species In feature area
habitat likely to occur
within area
Grantiella picta
Painted Honeyeater [470] Vulnerable Species or species In feature area
habitat may occur
within area
Hirundapus caudacutus
White-throated Needletail [682] Vulnerable Species or species In feature area
habitat known to
occur within area
Lathamus discolor
Swift Parrot [744] Critically Endangered Species or species In feature area
within area
Numenius madagascariensis
Eastern Curlew, Far Eastern Curlew Critically Endangered Species or species In feature area
within area
Rostratula australis
Australian Painted Snipe [77037] Endangered Species or species In feature area
within area
Turnix melanogaster
Black-breasted Button-quail [923] Vulnerable Species or species In feature area
habitat may occur
within area
FROG
Mixophyes balbus
Stuttering Frog, Southern Barred Frog Vulnerable Species or species In buffer area only
(in Victoria) [1942] habitat may occur
within area
Mixophyes iteratus
Giant Barred Frog, Southern Barred Vulnerable Species or species In feature area
Frog [1944] habitat known to
occur within area
INSECT
Argynnis hyperbius inconstans
Australian Fritillary [88056] Critically Endangered Species or species In feature area
habitat may occur
within area
Phyllodes imperialis smithersi

Pink Underwing Moth [86084] Endangered Species or species In buffer area only
habitat may occur
within area
MAMMAL
Chalinolobus dwyeri
Large-eared Pied Bat, Large Pied Bat Vulnerable Species or species In feature area
[183] habitat likely to occur
within area
Dasyurus maculatus maculatus (SE mainland population)

Spot-tailed Quoll, Spotted-tail Quoll, Endangered Species or species In feature area
Tiger Quoll (southeastern mainland habitat known to
population) [75184] occur within area
Petauroides volans
Greater Glider [254] Vulnerable Species or species In feature area
habitat known to
occur within area
Petaurus australis australis

Yellow-bellied Glider (south-eastern) Vulnerable Species or species In feature area
[87600] habitat known to
occur within area
Petrogale penicillata
Brush-tailed Rock-wallaby [225] Vulnerable Species or species In feature area
within area
Phascolarctos cinereus (combined populations of Qld, NSW and the ACT)

Koala (combined populations of Endangered Species or species In feature area
Queensland, New South Wales and the habitat known to
Australian Capital Territory) [85104] occur within area
Potorous tridactylus tridactylus

Long-nosed Potoroo (northern) [66645] Vulnerable Species or species In feature area
habitat may occur
within area
Pseudomys novaehollandiae
New Holland Mouse, Pookila [96] Vulnerable Species or species In feature area
habitat known to
occur within area
Pteropus poliocephalus
Grey-headed Flying-fox [186] Vulnerable Foraging, feeding or In feature area
related behaviour
known to occur within
area
PLANT
Acacia ruppii
Rupp's Wattle [7559] Endangered Species or species In buffer area only
habitat may occur
within area
Angophora robur
Sandstone Rough-barked Apple [56088] Vulnerable Species or species In buffer area only
habitat may occur
within area
Arthraxon hispidus
Hairy-joint Grass [9338] Vulnerable Species or species In feature area
within area
Cryptocarya foetida
Stinking Cryptocarya, Stinking Laurel Vulnerable Species or species In feature area
[11976] habitat likely to occur
within area
Cryptostylis hunteriana
Leafless Tongue-orchid [19533] Vulnerable Species or species In feature area
habitat may occur
within area
Cynanchum elegans
White-flowered Wax Plant [12533] Endangered Species or species In buffer area only
habitat may occur
within area
Dichanthium setosum
bluegrass [14159] Vulnerable Species or species In feature area
within area
Eucalyptus glaucina
Slaty Red Gum [5670] Vulnerable Species or species In feature area
habitat known to
occur within area
Eucalyptus tetrapleura
Square-fruited Ironbark [7490] Vulnerable Species or species In buffer area only
habitat known to
occur within area
Gossia fragrantissima
Sweet Myrtle, Small-leaved Myrtle Endangered Species or species In buffer area only
within area
Grevillea masonii
[64523] Endangered Species or species In buffer area only
within area
Hibbertia marginata
[21970] Vulnerable Species or species In buffer area only
within area
Leichhardtia longiloba listed as Marsdenia longiloba

Clear Milkvine [91911] Vulnerable Species or species In buffer area only
within area
Macadamia integrifolia
Macadamia Nut, Queensland Nut Tree, Vulnerable Species or species In feature area
Smooth-shelled Macadamia, Bush Nut, habitat may occur
Nut Oak [7326] within area
Macadamia tetraphylla
Rough-shelled Bush Nut, Macadamia Vulnerable Species or species In feature area
Nut, Rough-shelled Macadamia, Rough- habitat likely to occur
leaved Queensland Nut [6581] within area
Myrsine richmondensis
Purple-leaf Muttonwood, Lismore Endangered Species or species In buffer area only
Muttonwood [83888] habitat may occur
within area
Olax angulata
Minnie Waters Olax [10666] Vulnerable Species or species In buffer area only
habitat may occur
within area
Paspalidium grandispiculatum
a grass [10838] Vulnerable Species or species In feature area
habitat known to
occur within area
Persicaria elatior
Knotweed, Tall Knotweed [5831] Vulnerable Species or species In feature area
within area
Phaius australis
Lesser Swamp-orchid [5872] Endangered Species or species In buffer area only
habitat may occur
within area
Rhodamnia rubescens
Scrub Turpentine, Brown Malletwood Critically Endangered Species or species In feature area
[15763] habitat known to
occur within area
Rhodomyrtus psidioides
Native Guava [19162] Critically Endangered Species or species In feature area
habitat known to
occur within area
Thesium australe
Austral Toadflax, Toadflax [15202] Vulnerable Species or species In feature area
within area
Vincetoxicum woollsii listed as Tylophora woollsii

[40080] Endangered Species or species In buffer area only
habitat may occur
within area
REPTILE
Coeranoscincus reticulatus
Three-toed Snake-tooth Skink [59628] Vulnerable Species or species In feature area
within area
Listed Migratory Species [ Resource Information ]

Migratory Marine Birds
Apus pacificus
Fork-tailed Swift [678] Species or species In feature area
within area
Migratory Terrestrial Species

Cuculus optatus
Oriental Cuckoo, Horsfield's Cuckoo Species or species In feature area
within area
habitat known to
occur within area
Monarcha melanopsis
Black-faced Monarch [609] Species or species In feature area
within area
Motacilla flava
Yellow Wagtail [644] Species or species In feature area
habitat may occur
within area
Myiagra cyanoleuca
Satin Flycatcher [612] Species or species In feature area
habitat known to
occur within area
Rhipidura rufifrons
Rufous Fantail [592] Species or species In feature area
habitat known to
occur within area
Symposiachrus trivirgatus as Monarcha trivirgatus
Spectacled Monarch [83946] Species or species In feature area
habitat known to
occur within area
Migratory Wetlands Species

Actitis hypoleucos
Common Sandpiper [59309] Species or species In feature area
habitat known to
occur within area
Calidris acuminata
Sharp-tailed Sandpiper [874] Species or species In feature area
habitat known to
occur within area
Calidris ferruginea
habitat may occur
within area
Calidris melanotos
Pectoral Sandpiper [858] Species or species In feature area
habitat known to
occur within area
within area
Gallinago hardwickii
Latham's Snipe, Japanese Snipe [863] Species or species In feature area
within area
within area
Pandion haliaetus
Osprey [952] Species or species In feature area
within area
Tringa nebularia
Common Greenshank, Greenshank Species or species In feature area
within area
Listed Marine Species [ Resource Information ]
Bird
Actitis hypoleucos
Common Sandpiper [59309] Species or species In feature area
habitat known to
occur within area
Anseranas semipalmata
Magpie Goose [978] Species or species In feature area
habitat may occur
within area overfly
marine area
Apus pacificus
Fork-tailed Swift [678] Species or species In feature area
within area overfly
marine area
Bubulcus ibis as Ardea ibis

Cattle Egret [66521] Species or species In feature area
habitat may occur
within area overfly
marine area
Calidris acuminata
Sharp-tailed Sandpiper [874] Species or species In feature area
habitat known to
occur within area
Calidris ferruginea
habitat may occur
within area overfly
marine area
Calidris melanotos
Pectoral Sandpiper [858] Species or species In feature area
habitat known to
occur within area
overfly marine area
within area
Gallinago hardwickii
Latham's Snipe, Japanese Snipe [863] Species or species In feature area
within area overfly
marine area
Haliaeetus leucogaster
White-bellied Sea-Eagle [943] Species or species In feature area
habitat known to
occur within area
habitat known to
occur within area
overfly marine area
Lathamus discolor
Swift Parrot [744] Critically Endangered Species or species In feature area
within area overfly
marine area
Merops ornatus
Rainbow Bee-eater [670] Species or species In feature area
habitat may occur
within area overfly
marine area
Monarcha melanopsis
Black-faced Monarch [609] Species or species In feature area
within area overfly
marine area
Motacilla flava
Yellow Wagtail [644] Species or species In feature area
habitat may occur
within area overfly
marine area
Myiagra cyanoleuca
Satin Flycatcher [612] Species or species In feature area
habitat known to
occur within area
overfly marine area
within area
Pandion haliaetus
Osprey [952] Species or species In feature area
within area
Rhipidura rufifrons
Rufous Fantail [592] Species or species In feature area
habitat known to
occur within area
overfly marine area
Rostratula australis as Rostratula benghalensis (sensu lato)
Australian Painted Snipe [77037] Endangered Species or species In feature area
within area overfly
marine area
Symposiachrus trivirgatus as Monarcha trivirgatus

Spectacled Monarch [83946] Species or species In feature area
habitat known to
occur within area
overfly marine area
Tringa nebularia
Common Greenshank, Greenshank Species or species In feature area
within area overfly
marine area
Extra Information
State and Territory Reserves [ Resource Information ]
Protected Area Name Reserve Type State Buffer Status
Bundjalung State Conservation Area NSW In buffer area only
Bungawalbin Nature Reserve NSW In buffer area only
Bungawalbin State Conservation Area NSW In buffer area only
Bungawalbin National Park NSW In buffer area only
Kewilpa Private Nature Reserve NSW In buffer area only
Myrtle Creek Private Nature Reserve NSW In buffer area only
Selection Flat Flora Reserve NSW In buffer area only
Regional Forest Agreements [ Resource Information ]

Note that all areas with completed RFAs have been included.
RFA Name State Buffer Status
North East NSW RFA New South Wales In feature area
Nationally Important Wetlands [ Resource Information ]

Wetland Name State Buffer Status
Lower Bungawalbin Catchment Wetland Complex NSW In buffer area only
EPBC Act Referrals [ Resource Information ]

Title of referral Reference Referral Outcome Assessment Status Buffer Status
Controlled action
Title of referral Reference Referral Outcome Assessment Status Buffer Status
Controlled action
330 kV Transmission Line, 205km in 2010/5326 Controlled Action Completed In feature area
Length
Not controlled action

Improving rabbit biocontrol: releasing 2015/7522 Not Controlled Completed In feature area
another strain of RHDV, sthrn two Action
thirds of Australia
Bioregional Assessments
SubRegion BioRegion Website Buffer Status
Clarence-Moreton Clarence-Moreton BA website In feature area
Caveat
1 PURPOSE
This report is designed to assist in identifying the location of matters of national environmental significance (MNES) and other matters protected by
the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth) (EPBC Act) which may be relevant in determining obligations and
requirements under the EPBC Act.
The report contains the mapped locations of:
• World and National Heritage properties;
• Wetlands of International and National Importance;
• Commonwealth and State/Territory reserves;
• distribution of listed threatened, migratory and marine species;
• listed threatened ecological communities; and
• other information that may be useful as an indicator of potential habitat value.
2 DISCLAIMER
This report is not intended to be exhaustive and should only be relied upon as a general guide as mapped data is not available for all species or
ecological communities listed under the EPBC Act (see below). Persons seeking to use the information contained in this report to inform the referral
of a proposed action under the EPBC Act should consider the limitations noted below and whether additional information is required to determine the
existence and location of MNES and other protected matters.
Where data are available to inform the mapping of protected species, the presence type (e.g. known, likely or may occur) that can be determined
from the data is indicated in general terms. It is the responsibility of any person using or relying on the information in this report to ensure that it is
suitable for the circumstances of any proposed use. The Commonwealth cannot accept responsibility for the consequences of any use of the report
or any part thereof. To the maximum extent allowed under governing law, the Commonwealth will not be liable for any loss or damage that may be
occasioned directly or indirectly through the use of, or reliance
3 DATA SOURCES
Threatened ecological communities

For threatened ecological communities where the distribution is well known, maps are generated based on information contained in recovery plans,
State vegetation maps and remote sensing imagery and other sources. Where threatened ecological community distributions are less well known,
existing vegetation maps and point location data are used to produce indicative distribution maps.
Threatened, migratory and marine species

Threatened, migratory and marine species distributions have been discerned through a variety of methods. Where distributions are well known and
if time permits, distributions are inferred from either thematic spatial data (i.e. vegetation, soils, geology, elevation, aspect, terrain, etc.) together with
point locations and described habitat; or modelled (MAXENT or BIOCLIM habitat modelling) using
Where little information is available for a species or large number of maps are required in a short time-frame, maps are derived either from 0.04 or
0.02 decimal degree cells; by an automated process using polygon capture techniques (static two kilometre grid cells, alpha-hull and convex hull); or
captured manually or by using topographic features (national park boundaries, islands, etc.).
In the early stages of the distribution mapping process (1999-early 2000s) distributions were defined by degree blocks, 100K or 250K map sheets to
rapidly create distribution maps. More detailed distribution mapping methods are used to update these distributions
4 LIMITATIONS
The following species and ecological communities have not been mapped and do not appear in this report:
• threatened species listed as extinct or considered vagrants;
• some recently listed species and ecological communities;
• some listed migratory and listed marine species, which are not listed as threatened species; and
• migratory species that are very widespread, vagrant, or only occur in Australia in small numbers.
The following groups have been mapped, but may not cover the complete distribution of the species:
• listed migratory and/or listed marine seabirds, which are not listed as threatened, have only been mapped for recorded
• seals which have only been mapped for breeding sites near the Australian continent
The breeding sites may be important for the protection of the Commonwealth Marine environment.
Refer to the metadata for the feature group (using the Resource Information link) for the currency of the information.
Acknowledgements
This database has been compiled from a range of data sources. The department acknowledges the following
custodians who have contributed valuable data and advice:
-Office of Environment and Heritage, New South Wales
-Department of Environment and Primary Industries, Victoria
-Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment, Tasmania
-Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources, South Australia
-Department of Land and Resource Management, Northern Territory
-Department of Environmental and Heritage Protection, Queensland
-Department of Parks and Wildlife, Western Australia
-Environment and Planning Directorate, ACT
-Birdlife Australia
-Australian Bird and Bat Banding Scheme
-Australian National Wildlife Collection
-Natural history museums of Australia
-Museum Victoria
-Australian Museum
-South Australian Museum
-Queensland Museum
-Online Zoological Collections of Australian Museums
-Queensland Herbarium
-National Herbarium of NSW
-Royal Botanic Gardens and National Herbarium of Victoria
-Tasmanian Herbarium
-State Herbarium of South Australia
-Northern Territory Herbarium
-Western Australian Herbarium
-Australian National Herbarium, Canberra
-University of New England
-Ocean Biogeographic Information System
-Australian Government, Department of Defence
Forestry Corporation, NSW
-Geoscience Australia
-CSIRO
-Australian Tropical Herbarium, Cairns
-eBird Australia
-Australian Government – Australian Antarctic Data Centre
-Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory
-Australian Government National Environmental Science Program
-Australian Institute of Marine Science
-Reef Life Survey Australia
-American Museum of Natural History
-Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery, Inveresk, Tasmania
-Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, Hobart, Tasmania
-Other groups and individuals
The Department is extremely grateful to the many organisations and individuals who provided expert advice
and information on numerous draft distributions.
Please feel free to provide feedback via the Contact Us page.
© Commonwealth of Australia
Department of Agriculture Water and the Environment
GPO Box 858
Canberra City ACT 2601 Australia
+61 2 6274 1111
SCOPING REPORT
APPENDIX F
EPURON ENGAGEMENT SUMMARY
PAGE 71
Richmond Valley Solar Farm
Preliminary Engagement Report

Prepared by Epuron, March 2022
Level 11, 75 Miller St

North Sydney
NSW 2060 AUSTRALIA
epuron.com.au
Contents
1 Introduction .................................................................................................................................. 3
2 Consultation Approach ............................................................................................................... 4

2.1 IAP2 Framework ................................................................................................................................................ 4
2.2 Best Practice Charter and Social License ............................................................................................................ 5
2.3 Industry Guidelines ............................................................................................................................................ 5
2.4 Principles............................................................................................................................................................ 6
2.5 Priorities............................................................................................................................................................. 7
2.6 Epuron Goals and Commitments ....................................................................................................................... 8
3 Stakeholders ................................................................................................................................ 9
4 Community Consultation Methods ............................................................................................ 9

4.1 Direct Correspondence....................................................................................................................................... 9
4.1.1 Introductory letter – Neighbours within 4 km.......................................................................................................... 9
4.1.2 Follow-up letter – Neighbours within 1 km – October 2021 .................................................................................. 10
4.1.3 Follow-up letter – Neighbours identified with potential impact – February 2022 ................................................. 10
4.2 Project Website and Feedback Form – richmondvalleysolar.com.au ............................................................... 11

4.3 Newsletters ...................................................................................................................................................... 12
4.3.1 Project Introduction – December 2021 .................................................................................................................. 12
4.3.2 Project Update – February 2022 ............................................................................................................................ 13
4.4 Community Information Sessions .................................................................................................................... 14

4.5 Local Media ..................................................................................................................................................... 14
5 Traditional Owners .................................................................................................................... 15
5.1 Bogal Local Aboriginal Land Council ................................................................................................................ 15
5.2 Bandjalang Corportation ................................................................................................................................. 15
6 Richmond Valley Council ......................................................................................................... 15
7 Transgrid .................................................................................................................................... 15
8 Next steps .................................................................................................................................. 16

8.1 Community ...................................................................................................................................................... 16
8.2 Traditional Owners .......................................................................................................................................... 16
8.3 Richmond Valley Council .................................................................................................................................. 16
8.4 Transgrid.......................................................................................................................................................... 16
9 Attachments ............................................................................................................................... 17
9.1 Attachment A: Introductory letter and map to neighbours within 4 km .......................................................... 17
9.2 Attachment B: Follow up letter to neighbours within 1 km ............................................................................. 18
9.3 Attachment C: Follow up letter to neighbours with potential impact .............................................................. 19
9.4 Attachment D: Project Introduction – December 2021 .................................................................................... 20
9.5 Attachment E: Project Update - February 2022 ............................................................................................... 21
9.6 Attachment F: Community Information Session Presentation ......................................................................... 22
9.7 Attachment G: Letter of support, Richmond Valley Council ............................................................................. 23
9.8 Attachment H: Preliminary Technical Advice, Transgrid .................................................................................. 24
Richmond Valley Solar Farm – Preliminary Engagement Report, March 2022 2

1 Introduction
Epuron is seeking approval for construction of a utility-scale solar energy facility at 420 Avenue
Road, Myrtle Creek in Northern New South Wales.
The proposed Richmond Valley Solar Farm would involve one landowner and a site area of up
1,000 hectares. Once operational the solar farm would generate an output of approximately 500
megawatts (MW), equivalent to the electricity needs of 100,000 homes.
Epuron is a signatory to the Clean Energy Council’s Best Practice Charter for Renewable Energy
Projects and understands the importance and benefits to all parties of effective and comprehensive
stakeholder and community engagement.
The company follows the IAP2 consultation framework and considers an inclusive, collaborative,
responsive and transparent approach to engagement is a fundamental aspect of any project.
Epuron carried out preliminary stakeholder and community engagement activities for the project
ahead of lodging a Scoping Report. The purpose of this activity was to:
• Inform key stakeholders and the local community of the details of the project.
• Establish easily accessible channels for questions and feedback.
• Engage directly with key stakeholders in particular:

o Nearby residents
o Traditional Owner and Custodians
o Interested members of the local community
o Richmond Valley Council
o Network service provider, Transgrid
This report outlines preliminary stakeholder and community engagement activities for the project
from initial engagement with landowners and agencies, to the initial public announcement of the
project in 2021 through to lodgement of this Scoping Report. It includes feedback received to date
and next steps in the engagement process.

2 Consultation Approach
2.1 IAP2 FRAMEWORK

Epuron’s approach to consultation is informed by the International Association for Public
Participation’s (IAP2) Core Values and Public Participation Spectrum. This is widely accepted as
the benchmark for good community consultation and provides a framework for considering the
appropriate style of engagement and associated activities to implement at each stage.
The IAP2 Core Values for Public Participation define the expectations and aspirations of the public
participation process. It states that public participation:
1. Is based on the belief that those who are affected by a decision have a right to be involved in
the decision-making process.
2. Includes the promise that the public’s contribution will influence the decision.
3. Promotes sustainable decisions by recognising and communicating the needs and interests of
all participants, including decision-makers.
4. Seeks out and facilitates the involvement of those potentially affected by or interested in a
decision.
5. Seeks input from participants in designing how they participate.
6. Provides participants with the information they need to participate in a meaningful way.
7. Public participation communicates to participants how their input impacted or changed the
decision.
The approach centres on achieving good community-based outcomes and can be described as
genuine, timely, relevant, transparent and inclusive.
IAP2 Core Values and Public Participation Spectrum

2.2 BEST PRACTICE CHARTER AND SOCIAL LICENSE
Epuron is a founding signatory to the Clean Energy Council’s (CEC) Best Practice Charter for
Renewable Energy Projects, a voluntary commitment to engage respectfully with communities, be
sensitive to environmental and cultural values, and make a positive contribution to the regions in
which we operate. Charter commitments for the planning and assessment phase (updated August
2021) are:
1. We will engage respectfully with the local community, including Traditional Owners of the land,
to seek their views and input before submitting a development application and finalising the
design of the project.
2. We will provide timely information and be accessible and responsive in addressing the local
community’s feedback and concerns throughout the lifetime of the project.
3. We will be sensitive to areas of high biodiversity, cultural and landscape value in the design
and operation of projects.
4. We will minimise the impacts on highly productive agricultural land and explore opportunities to
integrate agricultural production.
5. We will consult the community on the potential visual, noise, traffic and other impacts of the
project, and on the mitigation options.
Epuron also has a representative in the CEC’s Community Engagement and Social License
Working Group, and advocates a social license to operate (SLO) based on the accepted industry
definition:
“A level of acceptance or approval continually granted to an organisation’s operations or project by
the local community.” – From Boutilier, R. G., and Thomson, I. (2011) paper - Modelling and
Measuring the SLO.pdf (socialicense.com)
2.3 INDUSTRY GUIDELINES

In undertaking consultation for the project Epuron has taken guidance from:
• NSW Government’s Undertaking Engagement Guidelines for State Significant Projects

(November 2021)
• Clean Energy Council’s Community Engagement Guidelines for the Australian Wind
Industry (2018)
• Australian Energy Infrastructure Commissioner’s Observations and Recommendations for

Community Engagement (updated 2020)

2.4 PRINCIPLES
In undertaking consultation for the project Epuron has observed the four key principles identified in
the CEC’s Guidelines:
Openness
This means sharing relevant information about decisions and activities in a way that is:
• Clear, so any person can understand it.
• Accurate, so it is consistent and complete.
• Timely, so it is available when requested and can be used to make decisions.
• Honest, so information is available to avoid misleading assumptions.
An open approach enables the community to have a better understanding of the project and
reduces uncertainty and enables Epuron to build greater rapport and trust within the community.
(Note, this does not affect Epuron’s right to maintain confidential and private information that might
otherwise negatively impact its interests.)
Inclusiveness
This involves identifying and interacting with all stakeholders to ensure their perspectives are
understood and taken into consideration. This means that all relevant groups who are potentially
affected by the project, not only the most visible ones or those who engage, have the opportunity
to communicate their opinions, expectations, needs and concerns.
Inclusiveness also means providing the appropriate channels and opportunities to participate in
activities related to the project and the decision-making processes, as relevant to each phase of
the wind farm lifecycle. An inclusive approach enables Epuron to:
• Gain a better understanding of community sentiment about a project, thereby facilitating
better informed decisions.
• Review performance for continuous improvement.
• Reduce the risk of conflict, between Epuron and communities, and within communities.
• Produce mutually beneficial partnerships.
• Increase the legitimacy and acceptability of decisions through community involvement.
Responsiveness
This involves listening and responding to community concerns and needs, respecting that every
individual has the right to ask reasonable questions about the project and expect a response.
The concept of responsiveness is particularly relevant to complaints management. It involves
providing mechanisms to collect questions and provide answers in an open and timely manner,
informing individuals about the status of their queries, for example by either one-on-one
interactions or public meetings. Responses are factual, reflect independent information and involve
third parties where relevant. Where Epuron does not have the answer, it will provide an
explanation to that effect and make an effort to obtain the relevant information. A responsiveness
approach helps to:
• Better understand communities.
• Identify elements of the project that might need more proactive explanations.

• Recognise and respond to opportunities for communities (e.g. sponsorship of local events,
partnerships with local businesses, etc).
• Address risk issues early or in advance.
Accountability
This involves the ongoing process of monitoring, evaluating and disclosing information about
activities, and the positive and negative impacts.
Accountability means establishing systems to track and communicate decisions, policies, activities
and performance over time in a balanced, comparable, reliable, accurate and clear manner, and
being proactive to prevent possible risks and mitigate potential negative impacts as consequences
of decisions made and activities implemented. This approach enables Epuron to continually
analyse and improve its engagement performance, create a better understanding and reduce
uncertainty of the project within the community. Managing uncertainty is a key element for risk and
reputation management.
2.5 PRIORITIES
During each stage Epuron focuses its consultation on the priorities listed below, as identified in the
CEC Guidelines. These priorities form the basis of the project’s stakeholder and community
consultation plan:
Site selection
Priorities: Understand the social context around the site, map and profile key stakeholders and
community concerns. This involved:
• Initial engagement with key stakeholders including landowners (for wind turbines and other
infrastructure) and neighbours, Traditional Owners, local council(s), and planning
authorities.
• Introduce the project to key stakeholders, explaining it is at an early stage and of
opportunities for input and the potential benefits.
• Provide key stakeholders with clear and timely information on the status of the project and
consult them on issues that might be of interest or relevant to them.
Feasibility
Priorities: Prepare a detailed community and stakeholder engagement plan, introduce the project
to the broader local community and establish two-way communication channels, document
interactions, and where practicable factor community input into the decision-making process. This
involved:
• Setting up a dedicated project information website and contact details.
• Providing ongoing and multiple channels for feedback.
• Developing a deeper understanding of the expectations and concerns in the community.
• Continuing to provide clear and timely information on the status of the project to all
stakeholders, and consulting and reporting on issues of interest.

Planning and approval
Priorities: Creating opportunities for input by maintaining and expanding communication channels,
establishing mechanisms to gather and respond to feedback, and keeping stakeholders and
communities up to date with project planning and submission. This involves:
• Creating more opportunities for interactions and feedback.
• Continuing to provide clear and timely information to all stakeholders, and consulting and
reporting on issues of interest.
• Establishing open and proactive dialogue to address any questions via various methods
and tools.
2.6 EPURON GOALS AND COMMITMENTS
Epuron Goals and Commitments
Epuron’s goals for stakeholder and community engagement are to:
• Ensure all stakeholders and the community are well informed and kept up to
date on project status and developments.
• Obtain feedback and provide ample opportunities for all stakeholders and
the community to communicate their views, concerns and aspirations for
the project.
• Address any stakeholder or community issues or concerns promptly.
• Work to minimise the impacts and maximise the benefits of the project for
the local community.
• Wherever possible utilise stakeholder and community input to optimise the
design of the project.
In implementing stakeholder and community engagement Epuron commits to:
• Be proactive – connect with stakeholders and communities early in the

process and regularly share information so they know what is happening
and how they can interact with Epuron and provide feedback on the project.
• Be transparent – be honest and ethical in our dealings with all.
• Seek solutions – engage to understand and explore ways to minimise
impacts and maximise the benefits of the project.
• Be flexible and inclusive – ensure that our engagement provides
opportunities for all stakeholders and community members to have access
to information and project personnel.
• Continually improve – evaluate the effectiveness of engagement and
iteratively adapt the approach and activities as required.

3 Stakeholders
To date Epuron has consulted with the following stakeholders
• Nearby landowners and residents

o Residents and property owners within 4 km of the project area
o Residents in the wider community
• Traditional Owners and Custodians

o Bogal Local Aboriginal Land Council
o Bandjalang Corporation
• Government authorities and agencies

o Richmond Valley Council
o NSW Rural Fire Service
o Fire and Rescue New South Wales
• Other organisations and stakeholders

o Transgrid
4 Community Consultation Methods
Epuron utilises a variety of channels, methods and techniques for its stakeholder and community
consultation.
4.1 DIRECT CORRESPONDENCE

4.1.1 Introductory letter – Neighbours within 4 km
Epuron first commenced correspondence with nearby landowners through letters in August 2021.
An introductory letter was mailed to 42 residents and owners of properties located within 4km from
the site boundary on 20 August 2021. This included residents and properties along:
• Summerland Way
• Avenue Road
• Elliots Road
• Ermelo Road
• Ellangowan Road
• Main Camp Road

• Myall Creek Road
• Duchess Close
• Connell Street
• Duke Road
The letter was signed by the project manager and provided an overview of the project, information
about Epuron, the planning process, opportunities for community involvement, the project
manager’s direct contact details, an invitation to contact and register for updates, the website
address and a QR code to access the website and a map clearly showing the project location and
site boundary.
See Attachment A.
4.1.2 Follow-up letter – Neighbours within 1 km – October 2021

A follow up letter was sent to five residents and owners of properties located within 1 km of the site
boundary on 19 October 2021. This included residents and properties along:
• Avenue Road
• Ermelo Road
The letter was signed by the project manager and provided a further invitation to discuss the
project and source feedback. One further resident was also contacted via telephone.
See Attachment B.
4.1.3 Follow-up letter – Neighbours identified with potential impact – February 2022
Epuron followed up with a third letter mailed to 11 residents and owners of properties considered as
likely to be impacted due to proximity or location. This was mailed on 8 February 2022 with a copy
of a project update newsletter to residents and properties along:
• Avenue Road
• Ermelo Road
See Attachment C.
Enquiries and feedback

To date Epuron has received a few phone/email enquiries and five feedback form submissions
from community members. Overall the feedback has been positive. Concerns raised and
responded to have included:
• Concept powerline route
• Soil contamination
• Road access
• Dust caused by construction
• Disposal of solar panels.

4.2 PROJECT WEBSITE AND FEEDBACK FORM – RICHMONDVALLEYSOLAR.COM.AU
Epuron added the project to its website and set up dedicated web pages under the domain name
richmondvalleysolar.com.au. The website address and a dedicated email address
(info@richomndvalleysolar.com.au) are promoted through all communications.
The website provides a project overview, prompts to register for updates, an interactive Google
map showing the site location, project news feed and a feedback form.
Project website landing page, feedback form and e-news registration page

4.3 NEWSLETTERS
4.3.1 Project Introduction – December 2021
Epuron issued a project introduction newsletter to the wider community in the first week of
December 2021. This was distributed via an unaddressed mailout through Australia Post to 1083
residents, a direct mailing list of 43 recipients and email contacts. It included:
• Map to show location and project area
• Outline of the planning and assessment process
• Opportunities for community members and interested parties to provide input
• Project website address and contact details
It is available on the website:

Richmond Valley Solar Farm Project Introduction – December 2021
See Attachment D.

4.3.2 Project Update – February 2022
A project update was issued in the first week of February 2022. This was distributed to 43 mail
recipients including 11 residents identified to have potential impact, and 30 recipients via email. It
included:
• Map to show location and project area
• Outline of the planning and assessment process
• Opportunities for community members and interested parties to provide input
• Details for upcoming information sessions
• Project website address and contact details
It is available on the website:

Richmond Valley Solar Farm Update – February 2022
See Attachment E.

4.4 COMMUNITY INFORMATION SESSIONS
Two information sessions were held on Thursday, 3 March 2022. Sessions were held at 10 am and
6 pm to enable attendees to select a convenient time.
Due to COVID restrictions the sessions were held online via Zoom. The sessions were well
attended, especially given that the time also coincided with severe flooding in the area which
preoccupied most residents. Some logins involved multiple neighbours. Epuron estimates a total of
18 community members participated in the sessions.
Each session involved a presentation given by the Richmond Valley Solar Farm project manager
and Epuron’s General Manager of Development for NSW, and time for questions and discussion.
The presentation included an overview of the Richmond Valley Solar Farm project, the key steps in
the planning and assessment process and opportunities for members of the community to
participate.
The online community information sessions were very productive. Attendees were interested in:
• Biodiversity impacts
• Flooding
• Road access to the local community
• Community benefit sharing scheme
In response Epuron has provided preliminary data and explained that many of these issues will be
further explored in the course of assessment studies.
The presentation is available on the website:

Richmond Valley Solar Farm Community Information Session Presentation, March 2022
See Attachment F.
4.5 LOCAL MEDIA

Epuron has also utilised local media to inform the community about the project and promote ways
to find out more information, contact the project team and provide feedback. This has included:
• Radio interviews with the project manager on
88.9 FM Richmond Valley Radio on 17 December
2021 and 28 January 2022, and ABC North
Coast on 10 February 2022.
• Inclusion of details of the project and the first
community information session on the Council’s
‘Valley Views’ community newsletter, distributed
on the 14 February 2022
• Promoting details for the solar farm and the first
community information session via a Facebook
post on the Facebook pages for Ellangowan
Community Hall and 88.9 FM. (See right)

5 Traditional Owners
5.1 BOGAL LOCAL ABORIGINAL LAND COUNCIL

Epuron has been engaging with Bogal Local Aboriginal Land Council (Bogal LALC) since the
beginning of the development and they receive newsletter updates.
5.2 BANDJALANG CORPORTATION

Epuron received a letter from NTS Corp, on behalf of Bandjalang Aboriginal Corporation,
prescribed Body Corporate RNTBC, in December 2021. Epuron is engaging with NTS Corp and
Bandjalang Aboriginal Corporation and they receive newsletter updates.
6 Richmond Valley Council
Epuron has commenced engagement with elected and executive members of Richmond Valley
Council and the Northern Rivers Joint Organisation of Councils via phone and email.
Both organisations have offered to disseminate information about the project via their newsletters
and other communication channels. Epuron will take advantage of these opportunities to enable
wider consultation.
Richmond Valley Council’s General Manager has also provided a letter of support.
See Attachment G.
A briefing for the mayor and councillorsl was also scheduled then postponed due to the flooding
incident in the Northern Rivers. It is due to be rescheduled as soon as practicable.
7 Transgrid
Epuron has engaged Transgrid via phone and email, and formally requested a high level
assessment of the project for Preliminary Technical Advice.
Transgrid has provided Preliminary Technical Advice.
See Attachment H.

8 Next steps
Epuron will develop a comprehensive stakeholder and community engagement plan and register
for the project and the project team will consult extensively based on that plan and the IAP2
framework.
Epuron will continue to utilise a variety of channels, methods and techniques for its stakeholder
and community engagement, in particular direct correspondence, meetings, project website
updates, regular newsletters, information materials, local community information sessions and
feedback mechanisms.
Key engagement activities for the stakeholders named in this report will include the following.
8.1 COMMUNITY
• Home visits and one-on-one meetings as required.
• Regular newsletters issued via mail and email.
• Local information sessions.
• Participation in community and community group meetings if requested.
• Maintenance of an up to date project information website with feedback form.
• Prompt response to concerns and enquiries
8.2 TRADITIONAL OWNERS

Epuron will continue to engage with Bogal LALC, NTS Corp and Bandjalung Aboriginal Corporation
as important stakeholders for the project.
8.3 RICHMOND VALLEY COUNCIL

Working proactively with Richmond Valley Council and the Northern Rivers Joint Organisation of
Councils including:
• Attending meetings and providing briefings as required.
• Provision of regular updates.
• Invitation to community information sessions.
• Prompt response to concerns and enquiries.
8.4 TRANSGRID
Engaging with Transgrid via the formal connection enquiry process. Grid connection is a critical
requirement to ensure success of the project.

9 Attachments
9.1 ATTACHMENT A: INTRODUCTORY LETTER AND MAP TO NEIGHBOURS WITHIN 4 KM

Epuron Australia Pty Ltd
Level 11, 75 Miller Street
North Sydney NSW 2060
August 2021
New solar farm proposal for Myrtle Creek, Richmond Valley LGA
Dear Resident,
I am writing to introduce Epuron and a potential new solar farm project in your local area.
The proposed project, named Richmond Valley Solar Farm, is located at 420 Avenue Road. It would involve
up to 1,000 hectares of privately owned cattle grazing land on either side of Avenue Road, between Main
Camp and Blackbutt Lagoon Roads. The site is approximately 10km east of Rappville and 7km south of
Ellangowan. Please see overleaf for a map showing the location and boundary of the proposed project area.
The site has an excellent solar resource and is close to the high voltage transmission network, which has
available capacity. It is estimated that the project would create up 200 jobs during the peak of construction
and generate up to 500 megawatts (MW) of clean energy for the NSW electricity network via the local grid.
About Epuron
Epuron is an Australian-owned renewable energy company based in Sydney, NSW. We specialise in project
development of utility-scale wind and solar energy facilities. Founded in 2003, Epuron is one of the longest
operating and most experienced renewable energy companies in Australia. The company’s solar farm
experience extends to 13 projects, eight that are now in operation and five that are in development.
For more information about Epuron and our projects please visit epuron.com.au
The Planning Process
Utility-scale solar projects in New South Wales are State significant development and subject to a rigorous
planning and assessment process overseen by the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment (DPIE).
Richmond Valley Solar Farm is in the initial concept phase and Epuron will soon lodge a Scoping Report with
the Department to receive Planning Secretary’s Environmental Assessment Requirements (SEARs). The
1
SEARs will outline the general and technical assessment requirements for the development application and
accompanying Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).
After the SEARs have been issued the Department will publish them online and Epuron will commence
studies for the reports required, which are likely to include specialist assessments for visual impact,
biodiversity, construction noise, traffic and transport, Aboriginal heritage, and any other relevant
environmental issues.
Epuron will also refer the proposal to the Federal Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment for
review under the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act).
Community Involvement
Epuron is a signatory to the Clean Energy Council’s Best Practice Charter and considers that community
participation is important for the success of any new infrastructure project. We take an inclusive,
collaborative, responsive and transparent approach to community engagement and will work to maximise
the benefits of this project for the local community.
After the SEARs have been issued and when possible, given the circumstances around COVID-19, a local
community information session will be hosted to provide an opportunity for interested community members
to discuss the proposal with the project team, ask questions and provide feedback.
As the project progresses through the planning process Epuron will also issue regular newsletters via mail
and email. If you would like to receive project updates via mail please send us your postal address. If you
would prefer to receive project updates via email please register your details online at
epuron.com.au/mailing-list-details and select ‘NSW Solar’ in your project preferences.
In the meantime, if you have any comments or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on 02 8456
7419 or by email to info@richmondvalleysolar.com.au. If you prefer you can also submit your comments via
the feedback form on the project website richmondvalleysolar.com.au
We look forward to working with the Richmond Valley community on this exciting project.
Yours sincerely,
Scan the above QR code

Hsin Chern Lim on your mobile device to
General Manager, Solar and Energy Storage visit the project website.
2
Richmond Valley Solar Farm Project Area
3
9.2 ATTACHMENT B: FOLLOW UP LETTER TO NEIGHBOURS WITHIN 1 KM

xxx
xxx Avenue Road
Ellangowan NSW 2470
October 2021
Proposal for Richmond Valley Solar Farm

420 Avenue Road, Myrtle Creek
Dear Mr and Mrs xxx,
I am writing to follow up on an introductory letter sent to your address in August regarding a new solar farm
project proposed for a site near your property. Please see following the original correspondence.
In consideration of your property’s proximity to this site, I would be grateful for the opportunity to hear your
views on this proposal and answer any questions you may have.
Please contact me directly via email on h.lim@epuron.com.au or phone on 0414 635 790 at any time, to
discuss or to advise of a convenient time when I can provide you with more information on the project.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Yours sincerely
Hsin Chern Lim

General Manager, Solar and Energy Storage
1
9.3 ATTACHMENT C: FOLLOW UP LETTER TO NEIGHBOURS WITH POTENTIAL IMPACT

xxx
xxx Avenue Road
Ellangowan
NSW 2470
February 2022

Mr xxx,
I am writing to seek an opportunity to discuss with you a new utility-scale solar farm being proposed for a
site near your property.
The proposed project, Richmond Valley Solar Farm, would involve up to 1,000 hectares of cattle grazing land
on either side of 420 Avenue Road, between Main Camp and Blackbutt Lagoon Roads. The site is north-east
of Myrtle Creek and approximately 10 km east of Rappville and 7 km south-east of Ellangowan.
The project is in the early stages and as there may be a potential impact given your property’s location in
relation to the site, we consider you an important community stakeholder. I would be grateful for the
opportunity to hear your views on the proposal and discuss any concerns you may have.
Please contact me directly at any time via email on h.lim@epuron.com.au or my mobile 0414 635 790, to
advise of a convenient time to discuss. Please also find enclosed a map of the project area and a newsletter
including details of online community information sessions scheduled for Thursday, 3 March 2022.
I hope to hear from you soon.
Yours sincerely
For more information about the project please visit

Hsin Chern Lim the website at richmondvalleysolar.com.au or by
General Manager, Solar and Energy Storage scanning the above QR code on your mobile device.
9.4 ATTACHMENT D: PROJECT INTRODUCTION – DECEMBER 2021

Project Introduction December 2021
Location Harnessing Richmond Valley’s sunshine

Australian-owned renewable energy company Epuron is investigating a
site near Myrtle Creek for a new large scale solar farm.
The project, named Richmond Valley Solar Farm, would involve up to
1,000 hectares of privately owned cattle grazing land approximately 10
km east of Rappville and 7 km south of Ellangowan. For a map showing
the proposed project area please see overleaf.
Utility-scale solar projects are subject to a rigorous planning and
assessment process managed by the NSW Department of Planning,
Industry and Environment (DPIE). The project is in its early stages and
Epuron will soon lodge a Scoping Report with DPIE to receive Planning
Secretary’s Environmental Assessment Requirements (SEARs).
The SEARs will outline the general and technical assessment
requirements for the development application and accompanying
Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). When the SEARs are issued they
will be published on the NSW Government’s online portal for Major
The site proposed for Richmond Projects at: planningportal.nsw.gov.au/major-projects
Valley Solar Farm is approximately After Epuron receives SEARs for the project it will commence studies for
16 km south-east of Casino, in the the reports required, which are likely to include specialist assessments
Richmond Valley Local Government for visual impact, biodiversity, construction noise, traffic and transport,
Area in northern New South Wales. Aboriginal heritage, and any other relevant environmental issues.
It has an excellent solar resource, is
used for cattle grazing which is
Community information session
complementary to solar farming and The project team is planning to host a local community information
is close to the high voltage session for this project early next year. To be notified directly when this
transmission network with available has been scheduled please register to receive project updates. Updates
capacity, making it an ideal location are available by email or post, details overleaf.
for a solar farm. Epuron looks forward to working with the Richmond Valley community
It is estimated that the project on this exciting project.
would create up 200 jobs during the
construction period and generate up Questions and comments
to 500 megawatts (MW) of clean Questions and comments are welcome and can be sent to the project
energy for the NSW electricity team via info@richmondvalleysolar.com.au or an online feedback form
network via the local grid. available on the website richmondvalleysolar.com.au
Planning and assessment
Utility-scale solar farms in NSW are

considered State significant development
and assessed by the Department of
Planning, Industry and Environment. The
proposal will also be referred for review
to the Australian Department of
Agriculture, Water and the Environment.
NSW Government
1 Site selection
WE
ARE
Initial concept
HERE and consultation
3 Scoping Report submitted

to the Department of
Planning, Industry and
Environment
4 Secretary’s Environmental
Assessment Requirements
(SEARs) issued for the
Environmental Impact
Statement (EIS)
5 Studies, assessments,
finalising site design
6 Development application
(DA) and EIS lodged
7 EIS on exhibition for

public submissions About Epuron
Epuron is an Australian-owned renewable energy company that
8 Responses to public specialises in the project development of utility-scale wind and solar
submissions energy facilities. Founded in Sydney in 2003, Epuron is one of the
longest operating and most experienced renewable energy companies
9 Assessment in Australia. The company’s utility-scale solar experience includes eight
solar farms now in operation and five in development.
10 Determination
For more information please visit epuron.com.au
Commonwealth Project updates

The project team is keen to keep members of the local community and
other interested parties up to date on project developments and
Referral to the opportunities to provide feedback. For email updates register at
1 Department of epuron.com.au/mailing-list-details . To receive updates via post please
Agriculture, Water and email your name, postal address and a request to be added to the
the Environment for mailing list to info@richmondvalleysolar.com.au
review under the We respect your privacy and your details will only be used for this purpose.
Environment Protection
and Biodiversity
Conservation Act 1999 More information
2 Determination Website richmondvalleysolar.com.au or scan the QR code
Register for updates: epuron.com.au/mailing-list-details
Assessment pathway to be Project contact: Hsin Lim, General Manager Solar
3+
advised... Email: info@richmondvalleysolar.com.au
9.5 ATTACHMENT E: PROJECT UPDATE - FEBRUARY 2022

Project Update February 2022
Location Information Sessions

Thursday, 3 March 2022
Online information sessions for the Richmond Valley Solar Farm,
proposed for a site north-east of Myrtle Creek in northern New South
Wales, will be held in March.
The sessions will give members of the nearby community and other
interested parties an opportunity to learn more about the proposal
from the project team. The project team is also looking forward to
hearing from community members about their views on the proposal.
Two sessions have been scheduled, one in the morning and one in the
evening. Each session will run for about an hour and include a
presentation followed by time for questions.
The presentation will include an overview of the Richmond Valley Solar
Farm project, the key steps in the planning and assessment process and
opportunities for members of the community to participate.
Time: 10am or 6pm

The site proposed for Richmond
Date: Thursday, 3 March 2022
Valley Solar Farm is north-east of
Location: Online
Myrtle Creek, approximately 10km
east of Rappville and 16 km south- To register go to trybooking.com/BWXQM
east of Casino, in northern New or scan the QR code right
South Wales. The sessions will be conducted via Zoom and registered attendees will
It has an excellent solar resource be emailed the link to join. The project team looks forward to meeting
and is currently used for cattle community members and the opportunity to share more information
grazing, a complementary land use about this exciting project and answer questions.
to solar farming. The site is also
close to the transmission network, Questions and comments
making it an excellent location for
We welcome questions and feedback from members of the community
utility-scale solar energy generation.
at any time and where practicable aim to incorporate community input
It is estimated that the project into project design to improve outcomes and benefits.
would create up 200 jobs during the Questions and comments can be sent to the project team via email to
construction period and generate up info@richmondvalleysolar.com.au or the online feedback form available
to 500 megawatts of clean energy. on the website richmondvalleysolar.com.au
and subject to rigorous assessment by
the Department of Planning, Industry
and Environment. Epuron will also refer
the proposal to the Australian
Department of Agriculture, Water and
the Environment for review under the
and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.
NSW Government
1 Site selection
WE
ARE
Initial concept

Environment
Statement (EIS)
(DA) and EIS lodged The shaded area outlined in blue in the map above shows the proposed
EIS on exhibition for project area. The project would involve up to 1,000 hectares of privately
7 owned cattle grazing land located off Avenue Road, approximately 10 km
public submissions
east of Rappville and 7 km south of Ellangowan.
8 Responses to public
submissions
9 Assessment
Project updates
10 Determination
opportunities to provide feedback.
Commonwealth Regular newsletters will be issued and can be received by email or post.
For email updates please register at epuron.com.au/mailing-list-details .
Referral to the
1 Department of To receive updates via post please email your address and a request to
Agriculture, Water and be added to the mail list to info@richmondvalleysolar.com.au. We
the Environment for respect your privacy and your details will only be used for this purpose.
review under the
Commonwealth
and Biodiversity More information
Conservation Act 1999
Website richmondvalleysolar.com.au or scan the QR code
2 Referral decision Email updates: epuron.com.au/mailing-list-details
3+ advised... Email: info@richmondvalleysolar.com.au
9.6 ATTACHMENT F: COMMUNITY INFORMATION SESSION PRESENTATION

Community Information Session
Via video, Thursday, 3 March 2022
Andrew Wilson, General Manager Development - NSW

Hsin Chern Lim, General Manager - Solar
Acknowledgement of Country
We acknowledge the Bandjalung Peoples as the Traditional
Custodians of the land upon which we meet and their
continuing connection to lands, waters and communities.
We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.
2
Introductions
• Andrew Wilson, General Manager Development – NSW

• Hsin Chern Lim, General Manager - Solar
3
Epuron
• Developing renewables since 2003;
experienced, long-standing.
• 400+ MW of utility-scale solar energy
development, including 5 operating
solar farms and 6 solar farm projects
in development (WA, NSW, Tas. And
NT).
Gullen Range Wind Farm
• 4000+ MW of utility-scale wind
energy development experience
including 8 approved wind farms and
12 wind farm projects in development
(NSW, Qld. and Tas.)
• Signatory to Clean Energy Council’s
Best Practice Charter for Renewable
Energy Projects.
• Expert team, collaborative and
consultative approach.
4
Big picture
• Australia’s energy market
is in transition.
• Coal retiring 2-3 times
faster than expected; in
NSW all coal power
stations due to retire by
2043 = 7-8000 MW.
• NSW a net importer of
electricity.
• Draft 2022 ISP = NEM
needs 135GW solar,
70GW wind, 45GW
storage by 2050 - triple
the previous forecasted
need and nine-times the
variable RE we have now.
5
• Located on freehold
land currently used
for cattle-grazing,
accessed from
Avenue Road east of
Summerland Way.
• Near Myrtle Creek,

approx. 10km east of
Rappville, 7km south
of Ellangowan.
• Proposed 500 MW of
solar, with 500 MWh
of energy storage.
6
Richmond Valley Solar Farm – Proposed Location
7
Richmond Valley Solar Farm – Preliminary Design
8
Example - Nevertire Solar Farm
9
Example – Solar Panels
10
Example - Energy Storage
11
Assessment process - State
• Managed by NSW Department of Planning and
Environment (DPIE). Rigorous and comprehensive.
• Scoping Report and request for SEARs.
• SEARS issued by DPIE.
• Preparation of EIS by proponent - includes
assessments and plans ie for landscape and visual,
ecology, cultural heritage, construction, traffic and
transport, bushfire management.
• EIS reviewed by DPIE.
• EIS on exhibition and public submissions accepted.
• Responses to public submissions provided by
proponent.
• Regulatory assessment and determination (DPIE
and IPC).
12
Assessment process - Commonwealth
• Referral to the Federal Department of
Agriculture, Water and the Environment
(DAWE) for review under the
(EPBC Act).
• Assessment pathway to be determined.
13
Engagement and consultation –
feasibility and assessment phase.
• Newsletters via mail and email.
• Project website with feedback form:
richmondvalleysolar.com.au
• Targeted engagement with nearby
residents ~4 km.
• Initial engagements started with the
Bandjalang Aboriginal Corporation and
the Bogal Local Aboriginal Land Council
• Discussions with Richmond Valley
Council.
• Consultation with NSW government
departments and agencies.
• Initial community information sessions in
March 2022 - first of many.
14
Community benefits
• Up to 200 jobs and economic boost for local trades and

businesses during construction.
• Approx. 4 ongoing permanent jobs for operations and
maintenance and <50 contract roles for various works
such as vegetation management and equipment
inspection.
• New renewable energy developments typically involve
a community benefit scheme to share benefits with the
wider community. This will be developed in due course
and Epuron is open to ideas for this from community
members. Suggestions are welcome.
15
Timeline
• Scoping Report submission – target March 2022
• SEARs – Q2 2022
• EPBC referral – Q2 2022
• EIS lodged & public exhibition – Q3 2022
• Project approvals – Q1 2023
• Construction commencement – 2023
16
Questions
17
Thank you
 richmondvalleysolar.com.au
 info@richmondvalleysolar.com.au
Level 11, 75 Miller St, North Sydney NSW 2060 AUSTRALIA I epuron.com.au I @EpuronAust
9.7 ATTACHMENT G: LETTER OF SUPPORT, RICHMOND VALLEY COUNCIL

10 Graham Place Casino NSW 2470
Postal: Locked Bag 10 Casino NSW 2470
t: 02 6660 0300 f: 02 6660 1300
council@richmondvalley.nsw.gov.au
www.richmondvalley.nsw.gov.au
ABN 54 145 907 009

6 September 2021
General Manager - Solar

Epuron Projects Pty Limited
Attn: Hsin Chern Lim
Dear Hsin
Proposed Richmond Valley Solar Farm, Myrtle Creek
I am writing on behalf of Richmond Valley Council to express support for Epuron’s proposed
Richmond Valley Solar Farm project.
We understand the suitability of the site selected for solar energy generation and that Epuron
anticipates the project would generate 200 jobs during the construction phase and when
completed produce 500 megawatts (MW) of clean renewable electricity, equivalent to the
electricity required to power approximately 100,000 homes.
The project aligns well with Council’s Richmond Valley Made 2030 Community Strategic Plan
(adopted June 2017). Council’s Vision and Values as set out in this plan include Community
Values of Sustainability; Community Priorities of Growing our Economy and Looking after our
Environment; and Community Objectives of Driving Economic Growth.
We understand the meaningful contribution a utility-scale solar farm of this size will make to
local employment opportunities and the area’s economic development, as well as New South
Wales’ and Australia’s clean energy transition.
Richmond Valley Council also appreciates that Epuron has a long-term track record and a
depth of experience in the successful planning and development of utility-scale renewable
projects, with projects amounting to over four gigawatts of generation capacity developed by
the company over the past 18 years.
We look forward to working with Epuron on this project for the benefit of communities in the
Richmond Valley Local Government Area and our natural environment.
If you have any queries in relation to this letter, please contact Mike Perkins, Manager
Economic Development on email mike.perkins@richmondvalley.nsw.gov.au or to discuss
further by telephone 0417 218 521.
Yours sincerely
Vaughan Macdonald
General Manager
9.8 ATTACHMENT H: PRELIMINARY TECHNICAL ADVICE, TRANSGRID

Preliminary Technical Advice
Epuron - Richmond Valley Solar Farm (500 MW)
PTA Reference Number - 113 Date
Author Shane Slattery Senior Network Planning Engineer 20 August 2021
1. Purpose and Scope
The purpose of this brief is to respond to a pre-feasibility enquiry for a proposed 500 MW solar farm connection to
the following locations:
A. Coffs Harbour – Lismore 330 kV (Line 89)
It should be noted that the scope of this brief is limited to a desktop assessment only, no modelling or network
studies have been conducted. Customer Planning, in their best endeavours, provide this Preliminary Technical
Advice based on network knowledge and anticipated developments in the area which the network connection is
requested.
As there are many variables which affect the viability of connections, final determination cannot be arrived at until
detailed network connection studies are completed.
TransGrid is not obliged under the current version (v 169) of the National Electricity Rules to provide Preliminary
Technical Advice to Connection Applicants and Customer Planning offers this assessment to aid Customer
Relations in the early stages of engagement with potential customers.
2. Desktop Assessment
2.1 Determination
A desktop assessment of the proposed generator connection was completed to assess the power transfer
capability at the proposed connection point. The scope included the identification of potential network capacity
limitations.
 Connection to this location may not require augmentation to the shared network. During unfavourable
network conditions, generation at this location may be subject to output limitation. There may also be
system strength concerns during weak network conditions.
3. Conclusions
Given the assumptions above:

 The intention to pursue a connection to the network locations identified should be confirmed with
TransGrid’s Customer Team.
 Detailed network studies will be required to determine the connection conditions.
 There are other interests and developments in the area, which, if they proceed to become committed
network developments may invalidate the findings of this report and/or exacerbate the potential for network
congestion.
4. Disclaimer
This brief is provided in good faith but strictly on a no-reliance and no liability basis. It does not create any binding
obligation on TransGrid. You must form your own views about the content of the brief and TransGrid recommends
you seek your own independent advice.
In particular, the information in this brief is subject to multiple variable factors which are subject to change. This
includes (but is not limited to) possible new connections which may or may not be committed before any
connection offer is made in respect of your project. Any connection offer will be subject to the connection
application process in the National Electricity Rules.
The provision of this information does not in any way confer any priority to the Customer over any other existing or
potential connection applicants.
5. Additional Resources
Future plans for the network are noted in TransGrid’s Transmission Annual Planning Report, available here.
A system strength heat map is accessible via TransGrid’s interactive TAPR portal, available here.
1 / Preliminary Technical Advice – Epuron - Richmond Valley Solar Farm (500

MW)
SCOPING REPORT
APPENDIX G
REGULATORY AUTHORITY AND COMMUNITY
CONSULTATION
PAGE 72
August 2021
New solar farm proposal for Myrtle Creek, Richmond Valley LGA
Dear Resident,
I am writing to introduce Epuron and a potential new solar farm project in your local area.
The proposed project, named Richmond Valley Solar Farm, is located at 420 Avenue Road. It would involve
up to 1,000 hectares of privately owned cattle grazing land on either side of Avenue Road, between Main
Camp and Blackbutt Lagoon Roads. The site is approximately 10km east of Rappville and 7km south of
Ellangowan. Please see overleaf for a map showing the location and boundary of the proposed project area.
The site has an excellent solar resource and is close to the high voltage transmission network, which has
available capacity. It is estimated that the project would create up 200 jobs during the peak of construction
and generate up to 500 megawatts (MW) of clean energy for the NSW electricity network via the local grid.
About Epuron
Epuron is an Australian-owned renewable energy company based in Sydney, NSW. We specialise in project
development of utility-scale wind and solar energy facilities. Founded in 2003, Epuron is one of the longest
operating and most experienced renewable energy companies in Australia. The company’s solar farm
experience extends to 13 projects, eight that are now in operation and five that are in development.
For more information about Epuron and our projects please visit epuron.com.au
The Planning Process
Utility-scale solar projects in New South Wales are State significant development and subject to a rigorous
planning and assessment process overseen by the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment (DPIE).
Richmond Valley Solar Farm is in the initial concept phase and Epuron will soon lodge a Scoping Report with
the Department to receive Planning Secretary’s Environmental Assessment Requirements (SEARs). The
1
SEARs will outline the general and technical assessment requirements for the development application and
accompanying Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).
After the SEARs have been issued the Department will publish them online and Epuron will commence
studies for the reports required, which are likely to include specialist assessments for visual impact,
biodiversity, construction noise, traffic and transport, Aboriginal heritage, and any other relevant
environmental issues.
Epuron will also refer the proposal to the Federal Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment for
review under the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act).
Community Involvement
Epuron is a signatory to the Clean Energy Council’s Best Practice Charter and considers that community
participation is important for the success of any new infrastructure project. We take an inclusive,
collaborative, responsive and transparent approach to community engagement and will work to maximise
the benefits of this project for the local community.
After the SEARs have been issued and when possible, given the circumstances around COVID-19, a local
community information session will be hosted to provide an opportunity for interested community members
to discuss the proposal with the project team, ask questions and provide feedback.
As the project progresses through the planning process Epuron will also issue regular newsletters via mail
and email. If you would like to receive project updates via mail please send us your postal address. If you
would prefer to receive project updates via email please register your details online at
epuron.com.au/mailing-list-details and select ‘NSW Solar’ in your project preferences.
In the meantime, if you have any comments or questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on 02 8456
7419 or by email to info@richmondvalleysolar.com.au. If you prefer you can also submit your comments via
the feedback form on the project website richmondvalleysolar.com.au
We look forward to working with the Richmond Valley community on this exciting project.
Yours sincerely,
Scan the above QR code

Hsin Chern Lim on your mobile device to
General Manager, Solar and Energy Storage visit the project website.
2
Richmond Valley Solar Farm Project Area
3
xxx
xxx Avenue Road
Ellangowan NSW 2470
October 2021

Dear Mr and Mrs xxx,
I am writing to follow up on an introductory letter sent to your address in August regarding a new solar farm
project proposed for a site near your property. Please see following the original correspondence.
In consideration of your property’s proximity to this site, I would be grateful for the opportunity to hear your
views on this proposal and answer any questions you may have.
Please contact me directly via email on h.lim@epuron.com.au or phone on 0414 635 790 at any time, to
discuss or to advise of a convenient time when I can provide you with more information on the project.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Yours sincerely
Hsin Chern Lim

General Manager, Solar and Energy Storage
1
xxx
xxx Avenue Road
Ellangowan
NSW 2470
February 2022

Mr xxx,
I am writing to seek an opportunity to discuss with you a new utility-scale solar farm being proposed for a
site near your property.
The proposed project, Richmond Valley Solar Farm, would involve up to 1,000 hectares of cattle grazing land
on either side of 420 Avenue Road, between Main Camp and Blackbutt Lagoon Roads. The site is north-east
of Myrtle Creek and approximately 10 km east of Rappville and 7 km south-east of Ellangowan.
The project is in the early stages and as there may be a potential impact given your property’s location in
relation to the site, we consider you an important community stakeholder. I would be grateful for the
opportunity to hear your views on the proposal and discuss any concerns you may have.
Please contact me directly at any time via email on h.lim@epuron.com.au or my mobile 0414 635 790, to
advise of a convenient time to discuss. Please also find enclosed a map of the project area and a newsletter
including details of online community information sessions scheduled for Thursday, 3 March 2022.
I hope to hear from you soon.
Yours sincerely
For more information about the project please visit

Hsin Chern Lim the website at richmondvalleysolar.com.au or by
General Manager, Solar and Energy Storage scanning the above QR code on your mobile device.
Project Introduction December 2021
Location Harnessing Richmond Valley’s sunshine

Australian-owned renewable energy company Epuron is investigating a
site near Myrtle Creek for a new large scale solar farm.
The project, named Richmond Valley Solar Farm, would involve up to
1,000 hectares of privately owned cattle grazing land approximately 10
km east of Rappville and 7 km south of Ellangowan. For a map showing
the proposed project area please see overleaf.
Utility-scale solar projects are subject to a rigorous planning and
assessment process managed by the NSW Department of Planning,
Industry and Environment (DPIE). The project is in its early stages and
Epuron will soon lodge a Scoping Report with DPIE to receive Planning
Secretary’s Environmental Assessment Requirements (SEARs).
The SEARs will outline the general and technical assessment
requirements for the development application and accompanying
Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). When the SEARs are issued they
will be published on the NSW Government’s online portal for Major
The site proposed for Richmond Projects at: planningportal.nsw.gov.au/major-projects
Valley Solar Farm is approximately After Epuron receives SEARs for the project it will commence studies for
16 km south-east of Casino, in the the reports required, which are likely to include specialist assessments
Richmond Valley Local Government for visual impact, biodiversity, construction noise, traffic and transport,
Area in northern New South Wales. Aboriginal heritage, and any other relevant environmental issues.
It has an excellent solar resource, is
used for cattle grazing which is
Community information session
complementary to solar farming and The project team is planning to host a local community information
is close to the high voltage session for this project early next year. To be notified directly when this
transmission network with available has been scheduled please register to receive project updates. Updates
capacity, making it an ideal location are available by email or post, details overleaf.
for a solar farm. Epuron looks forward to working with the Richmond Valley community
It is estimated that the project on this exciting project.
would create up 200 jobs during the
construction period and generate up Questions and comments
to 500 megawatts (MW) of clean Questions and comments are welcome and can be sent to the project
energy for the NSW electricity team via info@richmondvalleysolar.com.au or an online feedback form
network via the local grid. available on the website richmondvalleysolar.com.au

and assessed by the Department of
Planning, Industry and Environment. The
proposal will also be referred for review
to the Australian Department of
Agriculture, Water and the Environment.
NSW Government
1 Site selection
WE
ARE
Initial concept

Environment
Statement (EIS)
(DA) and EIS lodged
7 EIS on exhibition for

public submissions About Epuron
Epuron is an Australian-owned renewable energy company that
8 Responses to public specialises in the project development of utility-scale wind and solar
submissions energy facilities. Founded in Sydney in 2003, Epuron is one of the
longest operating and most experienced renewable energy companies
9 Assessment in Australia. The company’s utility-scale solar experience includes eight
solar farms now in operation and five in development.
10 Determination
For more information please visit epuron.com.au
Commonwealth Project updates

Referral to the opportunities to provide feedback. For email updates register at
1 Department of epuron.com.au/mailing-list-details . To receive updates via post please
Agriculture, Water and email your name, postal address and a request to be added to the
the Environment for mailing list to info@richmondvalleysolar.com.au
review under the We respect your privacy and your details will only be used for this purpose.
and Biodiversity
Conservation Act 1999 More information
2 Determination Website richmondvalleysolar.com.au or scan the QR code
Register for updates: epuron.com.au/mailing-list-details
3+
advised... Email: info@richmondvalleysolar.com.au
Project Update February 2022
Location Information Sessions

Thursday, 3 March 2022
Online information sessions for the Richmond Valley Solar Farm,
proposed for a site north-east of Myrtle Creek in northern New South
Wales, will be held in March.
The sessions will give members of the nearby community and other
interested parties an opportunity to learn more about the proposal
from the project team. The project team is also looking forward to
hearing from community members about their views on the proposal.
Two sessions have been scheduled, one in the morning and one in the
evening. Each session will run for about an hour and include a
presentation followed by time for questions.
The presentation will include an overview of the Richmond Valley Solar
Farm project, the key steps in the planning and assessment process and
opportunities for members of the community to participate.
Time: 10am or 6pm

The site proposed for Richmond
Date: Thursday, 3 March 2022
Valley Solar Farm is north-east of
Location: Online
Myrtle Creek, approximately 10km
east of Rappville and 16 km south- To register go to trybooking.com/BWXQM
east of Casino, in northern New or scan the QR code right
South Wales. The sessions will be conducted via Zoom and registered attendees will
It has an excellent solar resource be emailed the link to join. The project team looks forward to meeting
and is currently used for cattle community members and the opportunity to share more information
grazing, a complementary land use about this exciting project and answer questions.
to solar farming. The site is also
close to the transmission network, Questions and comments
making it an excellent location for
We welcome questions and feedback from members of the community
utility-scale solar energy generation.
at any time and where practicable aim to incorporate community input
It is estimated that the project into project design to improve outcomes and benefits.
would create up 200 jobs during the Questions and comments can be sent to the project team via email to
construction period and generate up info@richmondvalleysolar.com.au or the online feedback form available
to 500 megawatts of clean energy. on the website richmondvalleysolar.com.au
and subject to rigorous assessment by
the Department of Planning, Industry
and Environment. Epuron will also refer
the proposal to the Australian
Department of Agriculture, Water and
the Environment for review under the
and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.
NSW Government
1 Site selection
WE
ARE
Initial concept

Environment
Statement (EIS)
(DA) and EIS lodged The shaded area outlined in blue in the map above shows the proposed
EIS on exhibition for project area. The project would involve up to 1,000 hectares of privately
7 owned cattle grazing land located off Avenue Road, approximately 10 km
public submissions
east of Rappville and 7 km south of Ellangowan.
8 Responses to public
submissions
9 Assessment
Project updates
10 Determination
opportunities to provide feedback.
Commonwealth Regular newsletters will be issued and can be received by email or post.
For email updates please register at epuron.com.au/mailing-list-details .
Referral to the
1 Department of To receive updates via post please email your address and a request to
Agriculture, Water and be added to the mail list to info@richmondvalleysolar.com.au. We
the Environment for respect your privacy and your details will only be used for this purpose.
review under the
Commonwealth
and Biodiversity More information
Conservation Act 1999
Website richmondvalleysolar.com.au or scan the QR code
2 Referral decision Email updates: epuron.com.au/mailing-list-details
3+ advised... Email: info@richmondvalleysolar.com.au
Community Information Session
Via video, Thursday, 3 March 2022
Andrew Wilson, General Manager Development - NSW

Hsin Chern Lim, General Manager - Solar
Acknowledgement of Country
We acknowledge the Bandjalung Peoples as the Traditional
Custodians of the land upon which we meet and their
continuing connection to lands, waters and communities.
We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.
2
Introductions
• Andrew Wilson, General Manager Development – NSW

• Hsin Chern Lim, General Manager - Solar
3
Epuron
• Developing renewables since 2003;
experienced, long-standing.
• 400+ MW of utility-scale solar energy
development, including 5 operating
solar farms and 6 solar farm projects
in development (WA, NSW, Tas. And
NT).
Gullen Range Wind Farm
• 4000+ MW of utility-scale wind
energy development experience
including 8 approved wind farms and
12 wind farm projects in development
(NSW, Qld. and Tas.)
• Signatory to Clean Energy Council’s
Best Practice Charter for Renewable
Energy Projects.
• Expert team, collaborative and
consultative approach.
4
Big picture
• Australia’s energy market
is in transition.
• Coal retiring 2-3 times
faster than expected; in
NSW all coal power
stations due to retire by
2043 = 7-8000 MW.
• NSW a net importer of
electricity.
• Draft 2022 ISP = NEM
needs 135GW solar,
70GW wind, 45GW
storage by 2050 - triple
the previous forecasted
need and nine-times the
variable RE we have now.
5
• Located on freehold
land currently used
for cattle-grazing,
accessed from
Avenue Road east of
Summerland Way.
• Near Myrtle Creek,

approx. 10km east of
Rappville, 7km south
of Ellangowan.
• Proposed 500 MW of
solar, with 500 MWh
of energy storage.
6
Richmond Valley Solar Farm – Proposed Location
7
Richmond Valley Solar Farm – Preliminary Design
8
Example - Nevertire Solar Farm
9
Example – Solar Panels
10
Example - Energy Storage
11
Assessment process - State
• Managed by NSW Department of Planning and
Environment (DPIE). Rigorous and comprehensive.
• Scoping Report and request for SEARs.
• SEARS issued by DPIE.
• Preparation of EIS by proponent - includes
assessments and plans ie for landscape and visual,
ecology, cultural heritage, construction, traffic and
transport, bushfire management.
• EIS reviewed by DPIE.
• EIS on exhibition and public submissions accepted.
• Responses to public submissions provided by
proponent.
• Regulatory assessment and determination (DPIE
and IPC).
12
Assessment process - Commonwealth
• Referral to the Federal Department of
Agriculture, Water and the Environment
(DAWE) for review under the
(EPBC Act).
• Assessment pathway to be determined.
13
Engagement and consultation –
feasibility and assessment phase.
• Newsletters via mail and email.
• Project website with feedback form:
richmondvalleysolar.com.au
• Targeted engagement with nearby
residents ~4 km.
• Initial engagements started with the
Bandjalang Aboriginal Corporation and
the Bogal Local Aboriginal Land Council
• Discussions with Richmond Valley
Council.
• Consultation with NSW government
departments and agencies.
• Initial community information sessions in
March 2022 - first of many.
14
Community benefits
• Up to 200 jobs and economic boost for local trades and

businesses during construction.
• Approx. 4 ongoing permanent jobs for operations and
maintenance and <50 contract roles for various works
such as vegetation management and equipment
inspection.
• New renewable energy developments typically involve
a community benefit scheme to share benefits with the
wider community. This will be developed in due course
and Epuron is open to ideas for this from community
members. Suggestions are welcome.
15
Timeline
• Scoping Report submission – target March 2022
• SEARs – Q2 2022
• EPBC referral – Q2 2022
• EIS lodged & public exhibition – Q3 2022
• Project approvals – Q1 2023
• Construction commencement – 2023
16
Questions
17
Thank you
 richmondvalleysolar.com.au
 info@richmondvalleysolar.com.au
Level 11, 75 Miller St, North Sydney NSW 2060 AUSTRALIA I epuron.com.au I @EpuronAust
10 Graham Place Casino NSW 2470
Postal: Locked Bag 10 Casino NSW 2470
t: 02 6660 0300 f: 02 6660 1300
council@richmondvalley.nsw.gov.au
www.richmondvalley.nsw.gov.au
ABN 54 145 907 009

6 September 2021
General Manager - Solar

Epuron Projects Pty Limited
Attn: Hsin Chern Lim
Dear Hsin
Proposed Richmond Valley Solar Farm, Myrtle Creek
I am writing on behalf of Richmond Valley Council to express support for Epuron’s proposed
Richmond Valley Solar Farm project.
We understand the suitability of the site selected for solar energy generation and that Epuron
anticipates the project would generate 200 jobs during the construction phase and when
completed produce 500 megawatts (MW) of clean renewable electricity, equivalent to the
electricity required to power approximately 100,000 homes.
The project aligns well with Council’s Richmond Valley Made 2030 Community Strategic Plan
(adopted June 2017). Council’s Vision and Values as set out in this plan include Community
Values of Sustainability; Community Priorities of Growing our Economy and Looking after our
Environment; and Community Objectives of Driving Economic Growth.
We understand the meaningful contribution a utility-scale solar farm of this size will make to
local employment opportunities and the area’s economic development, as well as New South
Wales’ and Australia’s clean energy transition.
Richmond Valley Council also appreciates that Epuron has a long-term track record and a
depth of experience in the successful planning and development of utility-scale renewable
projects, with projects amounting to over four gigawatts of generation capacity developed by
the company over the past 18 years.
We look forward to working with Epuron on this project for the benefit of communities in the
Richmond Valley Local Government Area and our natural environment.
If you have any queries in relation to this letter, please contact Mike Perkins, Manager
Economic Development on email mike.perkins@richmondvalley.nsw.gov.au or to discuss
further by telephone 0417 218 521.
Yours sincerely
Vaughan Macdonald
General Manager
SCOPING REPORT
APPENDIX H
TRANSGRID CONSULTATION
PAGE 73
Preliminary Technical Advice
Epuron - Richmond Valley Solar Farm (500 MW)
PTA Reference Number - 113 Date
Author Shane Slattery Senior Network Planning Engineer 20 August 2021
1. Purpose and Scope
The purpose of this brief is to respond to a pre-feasibility enquiry for a proposed 500 MW solar farm connection to
the following locations:
It should be noted that the scope of this brief is limited to a desktop assessment only, no modelling or network
studies have been conducted. Customer Planning, in their best endeavours, provide this Preliminary Technical
Advice based on network knowledge and anticipated developments in the area which the network connection is
requested.
As there are many variables which affect the viability of connections, final determination cannot be arrived at until
detailed network connection studies are completed.
TransGrid is not obliged under the current version (v 169) of the National Electricity Rules to provide Preliminary
Technical Advice to Connection Applicants and Customer Planning offers this assessment to aid Customer
Relations in the early stages of engagement with potential customers.
2. Desktop Assessment
2.1 Determination
A desktop assessment of the proposed generator connection was completed to assess the power transfer
capability at the proposed connection point. The scope included the identification of potential network capacity
limitations.
 Connection to this location may not require augmentation to the shared network. During unfavourable
network conditions, generation at this location may be subject to output limitation. There may also be
system strength concerns during weak network conditions.
3. Conclusions
Given the assumptions above:

 The intention to pursue a connection to the network locations identified should be confirmed with
TransGrid’s Customer Team.
 Detailed network studies will be required to determine the connection conditions.
 There are other interests and developments in the area, which, if they proceed to become committed
network developments may invalidate the findings of this report and/or exacerbate the potential for network
congestion.
4. Disclaimer
This brief is provided in good faith but strictly on a no-reliance and no liability basis. It does not create any binding
obligation on TransGrid. You must form your own views about the content of the brief and TransGrid recommends
you seek your own independent advice.
In particular, the information in this brief is subject to multiple variable factors which are subject to change. This
includes (but is not limited to) possible new connections which may or may not be committed before any
connection offer is made in respect of your project. Any connection offer will be subject to the connection
application process in the National Electricity Rules.
The provision of this information does not in any way confer any priority to the Customer over any other existing or
potential connection applicants.
5. Additional Resources
Future plans for the network are noted in TransGrid’s Transmission Annual Planning Report, available here.
A system strength heat map is accessible via TransGrid’s interactive TAPR portal, available here.
1 / Preliminary Technical Advice – Epuron - Richmond Valley Solar Farm (500

MW)
SCOPING REPORT
APPENDIX I
SOCIAL IMPACT SCOPING WORKSHEET
PAGE 74
Scoping Worksheet
Social Impact Assessment (SIA) Worksheet Project name: Richmond Valley Solar Farm Date: Apr-22
PREVIOUS
CATEGORIES OF ASSESSMENT LEVEL FOR EACH
POTENTIAL IMPACTS ON PEOPLE INVESTIGATION CUMULATIVE IMPACTS ELEMENTS OF IMPACTS - Based on preliminary investigation PROJECT REFINEMENT MITIGATION / ENHANCEMENT MEASURES
SOCIAL IMPACTS IMPACT
OF IMPACT
What impacts are likely, and what

concerns/aspirations have people expressed If "yes - this project," briefly Will the project activity (without mitigation or enhancement) cause a material social impact in terms of its:
Will this impact combine with What methods and data sources will be used to investigate this impact? Has the project been
what social impact about the impact? Has this impact describe the previous You can also consider the various magnitudes of these characteristics
others from this project (think refined in response to
categories could be Summarise how each relevant stakeholder previously been investigation. If yes, identify which other impacts Level of assessment for each social
about when and where), and/or preliminary impact What mitigation / enhancement measures are being considered?
affected by the project group might experience the impact. investigated (on this If "yes - other project," identify and/or projects impact
with impacts from other projects duration of intensity of sensitivity or level of evaluation or stakeholder
activities NB. Where there are multiple stakeholder groups or other project/s)? the other project and extent i.e. number
Is the impact expected to be (cumulative)? expected impacts? expected impacts vulnerability of concern/interest of Primary Data - Primary Data - feedback?
affected differently by an impact, or more than one investigation of people potentially Secondary data
impact from the activity, please add an additional row. positive or negative (i.e. construction vs i.e. scale or degree people potentially people potentially Consultation Research
affected?
operational phase) of change? affected? affected?
Polldale Solar Farm Management through appropriate on site controls during construction
Increased noise to receivers during
surroundings negative Yes - other project Walgett Solar Farm No Not required Yes Yes Yes Yes Unknown Detailed assessment of the impact Required Broad consultation Targeted research No
construction
Nevertire Solar Farm
Adopt standard measures (working within standard hours etc). Conduct noise
impact assessment and adopt suitable mitigation/management measures.
Polldale Solar Farm
surroundings Increased noise to receivers during operation negative Yes - other project Walgett Solar Farm Yes Proposed Myrtle Creek Solar Farm Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown Detailed assessment of the impact Required Broad consultation Targeted research No
Visibility of site and context of receiving environment considered in site selection.

Visual impacts to be assessed in detail in assessment and the need for, or extent
Polldale Solar Farm of, visual mitigation measues identified
surroundings Changes to the landscape and visual amenity negative Yes - other project Walgett Solar Farm Yes Proposed Myrtle Creek Solar Farm No Yes Unknown Unknown Yes Detailed assessment of the impact Required Broad consultation Targeted research Yes
To be determined during assessment

Polldale Solar Farm
health and wellbeing Changes in air quality during construction negative Yes - other project Walgett Solar Farm No Not required Yes Yes Yes Yes Unknown Detailed assessment of the impact Required Broad consultation Targeted research No
Management through appropriate on site controls during construction

Polldale Solar Farm
Increased traffic during construction causing Limited - if required (e.g.
access negative Yes - other project Walgett Solar Farm No Not required No No No No Unknown Minor assessment of the impact Required Not required No
short term disruption local council)
Management through appropriate on site controls during construction
Polldale Solar Farm

Increased traffic during operation causing Limited - if required (e.g.
access negative Yes - other project Walgett Solar Farm No Not required No No No No Unknown Minor assessment of the impact Required Not required No
disruption local council)
Project refinement as required to avoid impact where possible
Polldale Solar Farm

health and wellbeing Changes to landscape and visual amenity Negative Yes - other project Walgett Solar Farm No Not required Yes Yes Yes Yes Unknown Detailed assessment of the impact Required Broad consultation Targeted research No
Project refinement as required to avoid impact where possible
Polldale Solar Farm

Potential for impacts to unknown items or
culture negative Yes - other project Walgett Solar Farm No Not required Yes Yes Yes Yes Unknown Detailed assessment of the impact Required Broad consultation Targeted research No
sites of Aboriginal heritage
None required
Polldale Solar Farm

way of life Reduction in power prices in the locality Positive Yes - other project Walgett Solar Farm Yes Proposed Myrtle Creek Solar Farm Yes Yes Yes Yes Unknown Detailed assessment of the impact Required Broad consultation Targeted research No
Buy/use local resources where possible
Polldale Solar Farm

Increased employment opportunities during
livelihoods Positive Yes - other project Walgett Solar Farm Yes Proposed Myrtle Creek Solar Farm Yes Yes Yes Yes Unknown Detailed assessment of the impact Required Broad consultation Targeted research No
construction phase
Buy/use local resources where possible
Polldale Solar Farm

Increased employment opportunities during
livelihoods Positive Yes - other project Walgett Solar Farm Yes Proposed Myrtle Creek Solar Farm Yes Yes Yes Yes Unknown Detailed assessment of the impact Required Broad consultation Targeted research No
operational phase
To be determined during assessment
Polldale Solar Farm

Concern about introduction of project into
way of life negative Yes - other project Walgett Solar Farm Yes Proposed Myrtle Creek Solar Farm Yes Yes Yes Yes Unknown Detailed assessment of the impact Required Broad consultation Targeted research No
locality and nature of changes
INSERT NEW ROWS ABOVE THIS ROW
Page 1
CATEGORIES MEANING FOR WORKSHEET PURPOSE FURTHER EXPLANATION AND EXAMPLES
Impacts on people's daily routines caused by construction activities and/or operational arrangements. Impacts on people's commuting/travelling times,
how people live, how they get around, how they
their experience of travel, and their ability to move around freely. Impacts on people's experience of privacy, peace, and quiet enjoyment, especially if
way of life work, how they play, and how they interact on a
affected by increased noise. Impacts on people's general experience of life in their community, especially if the project might cause a 'tipping point' of
daily basis
cumulative impacts on their lives, e.g. through property acquisitions, severance of communities, or major disruption during construction.
Composition - impacts on demographic characteristics and community structure. Can be changed by in-migration and out-migration over time,
including the presence of newcomers and loss of longer term residents or sections of the community. Also inflow/outflow of temporary residents, e.g.
during construction.
Character - impacts on a community's shared identity and attributes, and natural and built features that people value. Can be affected by changes to
composition, character, cohesion, function, and
community buildings, vegetation, landscapes, land uses/industries, or land ownership and management.
sense of place
Cohesion and function - impacts on social connections, interrelationships, networks and interactions, trust and cooperation, participation in community
activities and institutions, and the potential for harmony or conflict. Lack of cohesion can result in social dislocation, alienation, division, dispossession,
tensions, impoverishment, and crime.
Sense of place - impacts on feelings of belonging in a place, or identity with a place, which may derive from cultural or historical connections.
how people access and use infrastructure,
Impacts on how people use roads and other access routes; severance, restrictions, and/or improvements in access. Impacts of project (including
services and facilities, whether provided by local,
access project-related transport) on pedestrian routes and people's access to schools, medical services, community services, and businesses. Impacts on
state, or federal governments, or by for-profit or
capacity of services to respond to in-migrating residents.
not-for-profit organisations or groups
SOCIAL IMPACTS
Impacts on people’s values, customs, and beliefs associated with (or embedded in) the site or locality, e.g. as secondary effects of changes to scenic
both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal culture,
quality, landforms, or water flows. Strengthening of community values and culture through project design elements.
including shared beliefs, customs, values, and
culture
stories, and connections to country, land,
For Aboriginal cultural heritage, also consider potential for intangible harm through ‘cultural or spiritual loss’ (i.e., loss or diminution of traditional
waterways, places, and buildings
attachment to the land or connection to country, or loss of rights to gain spiritual sustenance from the land).
[1]
physical and mental health , especially for those Health impacts, and well-founded concerns/fears about health impacts, associated with noise, dust, odour, vibration, lighting, and toxic materials.
who are highly vulnerable to social exclusion or Stress, anxiety, and uncertainty - or hopes - about a proposal, about changes to adjacent uses, and about cumulative change to a neighbourhood.
health and wellbeing
substantial change, plus wellbeing of individuals Psychological stress and fears/hopes for the future. Potential impact of the project on social behaviours such as alcohol/drug use, domestic or other
and communities violence. Impacts of project elements on ability to sleep, people's general health and wellbeing, and overall community health.
access to, and use of, services that ecosystems Impacts on anything provided by the environment and that is useful for people, e.g. food and clean water supply, flood or fire defences. Impacts on
[2]
provide , public safety and security, access to safety of pedestrians, children, drivers, and cyclists. Impacts on levels of crime and violence, perceptions of crime, safety, and security, especially for
surroundings
and use of the natural and built environment, and women. Loss or enhancement of public spaces. Impacts on the perceived quality and uses of a natural or built area. Impacts on the valued features,
its aesthetic value and amenity
[3] the soundscape, and aesthetics of a place and how people use or appreciate it.
people’s capacity to sustain themselves, whether
they experience personal breach or Impacts on people’s livelihoods, e.g. from new employment and business opportunities (positive), or from disruption during construction (negative).
livelihoods
disadvantage, and the distributive equity of For Aboriginal people, rights to land and to gain spiritual and cultural sustenance from the land.
impacts and benefits
Capacity of affected people to influence project decisions, including elements of project design. Extent to which they can navigate large amounts of
whether people experience procedural fairness;
technical material and make informed decisions. Effectiveness of engagement mechanisms at enabling all groups (especially vulnerable or
decision-making can make informed decisions; have power to
marginalised groups) to participate in the assessment process. Levels of trust in the rigour and impartiality of the assessment process. Extent to which
systems influence decisions; and can access complaint,
people feel empowered to determine their futures, including after a project closes. Opportunities for people to have a say in the project's community
remedy and grievance mechanisms
investment decisions. Accessibility and effectiveness of complaint and remedy procedures.
CATEGORIES EXAMPLES
Physically observable impacts
A social impact may be physically
More paths and cycleways
observable or it may manifest as rational or
justified fears (of negative impacts in the Acquisition of residential properties
future) or aspirations (of positive impacts in Rational or justified fears
the future). Psychological stress regarding the future personal and community impacts of compulsory property
acquisition
Positive
A social impact may be experienced
Improved livelihoods owing to more work opportunities
positively by some people, and negatively by
others. Negative
Increased prevalence of adverse health conditions
Tangible
A social impact may be tangible Availability of affordable housing
or intangible. Intangible
Community cohesion
Direct
Sleep disturbance caused by construction noise
Indirect
Social impacts may be direct or indirect. Strain on family relations and health from sleep disturbance caused by construction noise
They may also combine Combined
with other impacts from a single project or be Sleep disturbance due to increased noise and restricted access because of significantly reduced street
cumulative with impacts from other projects. parking caused by a single project
Cumulative
Sleep disturbance due to increased noise and restricted access because of significantly reduced street
parking from one project. In addition, poor air quality creating health conditions and strained family
relations from another project
Directly quantitative
Changes in population demographics
Partially/indirectly quantitative
A social impact may be best assessed using
Incidence of voluntary work among a community as a proxy indicator of community cohesion
quantitative methods or qualitative
methods. Qualitative (measurable through perception surveys or oral story telling, for example)
Cultural values
Sense of place
Connection to Country
Different experiences within a community
An increase in the value/cost of housing may be positive for homeowners wanting to rent out or sell their
properties, but negative for individuals and families wanting to buy or rent.
A social impact may be experienced
differently within a community, by different Different experiences for different communities
communities, and at different times/stages of People living near a project may experience most of the noise and dust impacts, while people in the
the project. region’s nearest town may benefit from most of the job opportunities.
Different experiences over time
People’s experiences of impacts during project construction may be quite negative, whereas experiences
during operation may be more positive.
LEVEL MEANING FOR WORKSHEET PURPOSE
ASSESSMENT FOR
EACH SOCIAL Detailed assessment The project may result in significant social impacts, including cumulative impacts.
LEVEL OF
The project is unlikely to result in significant social impacts, including cumulative impacts.
IMPACT
Standard assessment
Minor assessment The project may result in minor social impacts.

The project will have no social impact, or the social impacts of the project will be so small that
Not relevant
they do not warrant consideration.
DIMENSIONS DETAILS NEEDED TO ENABLE ASSESSMENT
extent Which location(s) is/are affected? (e.g. near neighbours, local, regional)
duration Will the impact be time-limited (e.g. over particular project phases) or permanent?
severity or scale What is the likely scale or level of change? (e.g. mild, moderate, severe)
CONSEQUENCE
How sensitive/vulnerable (or how adaptable/resilient) are people to the impact, or (for positive
sensitivity or impacts) how important is it to them? This might depend on: the value they attach to the matter;
importance whether it is rare/unique or replaceable; the extent to which it is tied to their identity; and their
capacity to cope with or adapt to change.
How concerned/interested are people, according to the findings from research and engagement?
level of Sometimes, concerns may be disproportionate to findings from technical assessments of
concern/interest likelihood, duration, and/or severity. Concern itself can lead to negative impacts, while interest
can lead to expectations of positive impacts.
SCOPING REPORT
APPENDIX J
VISUAL ASSESSMENT MEMO
PAGE 75
78 Macgregor Terrace, Bardon 4064
PO Box 189 Red Hill 4059
ABN 72166862157
MEMO
To: David Walker, Premise
From: Suzie Rawlinson, Director
Date: 6th April, 2022
Re: Richmond Valley Solar Farm Project

Landscape and visual amenity preliminary advice
1. Introduction
The Richmond Valley solar farm project is in the North Coast region of NSW and located approximately
six kilometres east of Rappville. The Richmond Valley solar farm project site (‘the site’) is located on
Avenue Road and would include a 500MW solar farm with 500MW hour battery, a substation and
transmission line connection. At this stage, the project comprises a development footprint
investigation area and indicative location for the battery (BESS) and substation, and transmission line
connection to the 330kV Transgrid Powerline, west of the site.
This memo contains a preliminary review of the existing landscape and visual conditions of the site,
key regional and local planning provisions that identify landscape and visual amenity values of the
region, identifies the potential visibility of the site, and the next steps for analysis of this project.
2. Landscape and visual characteristics of the site

The site is located generally between the Ellangowan (in the west) and Bungawalbin State Forests (to
the east) (refer to Figure A: Site location). The site is located on both sides of Avenue Road, a local
road extending east-west between Main Camp Road (near Summerland Way) and Myall Creek Road
near Bungawalbin National Park. The site is mostly currently under rural use, consisting of partially
cleared farmland used for cattle grazing pasture. The site contains four areas of existing bushland,
including a large area in the northwestern corner of the site, near Ellangowan State Forest, a large
area to the centrally located along the southern boundary of the site, and two smaller blocks of
vegetation to the east of the site. These areas are not within the proposed development footprint, and
together with other areas of remnant bushland also the west, north, northeast, and south, separate
the site from surrounding rural areas both physically and visually. In addition to this, there are several
corridors of vegetation along field boundaries, and within the site which further contain the site in
views from the surrounding local area.
The site is located within a valley, contained by ridgelines to the southwest, west, north, and east of
the site (refer to Figure B: Topography). The landform generally slopes to the southeast towards
Physics Creek. While there are some north, east and south facing slopes in the western areas of the
site, otherwise the site is low lying and includes several wetlands and drainage lines. The low-lying
i
areas generally slope to the southeast, to a low point near Homestead Lagoon, southeast of the site.
The land use around this part of the site has been cleared for crops, including tea tree plantation.
There is a small cluster of residences located to the southwest of the site, at the intersection of
Avenue and Main Camp roads. There is also a group of residences located to the north of the site, in
the vicinity of the intersection of Avenue and Ermelo roads. Both groups of residences are location in
the RU1 Primary Production zone and are located within two kilometres of the site. There are
residential dwellings within bushland areas to the east of the site on Myall Creek Road. Main Camp
Homestead and surrounds, a local heritage listed property is located 800 metres to the south of the
site, on Main Camp Road.
There are existing transmission lines in the vicinity of the site. This includes a corridor containing
330kV and 66kV transmission lines, which pass through the existing bushland and Ellangowan State
Forest, west of the site.
3. Planning considerations
Regional and local

The site is within the North Coast region and guided by the North Coast Regional Plan 2036 and local
planning guidance is provided in the Richmond Valley Local Strategic Planning Statement (LSPS) and
the Richmond Valley Council’s Local Environmental Plan (LEP) and Development Control Plan (DCP).
North Coast Regional Plan 2036
The North Coast Regional Plan 2036 (the Plan) is the NSW Government’s strategy for guiding land use
planning decisions for the North Coast Region for the next 20 years. The vision of the Plan is: ‘The best
region in Australia to live, work and play thanks to its spectacular environment and vibrant
communities’. The supporting goals for the vision include at number 1 to be ‘The most stunning
environment in NSW’. These goals are in turn supported by a range of local directions that provide
context and detail to the overarching goals. The regional priorities for Richmond Valley relate mainly
to supporting the local agricultural sector and associated value-adding industries, and ‘support the
unique character of local towns and villages’ (page 68).
Richmond Valley Local Strategic Planning Statement: Beyond 20-20 Vision, 2020
The North Coast of NSW is described as one of the State’s most desirable places to live and work,
extending from the coastline at Evans Head with a rural hinterland along the Richmond River
floodplains, and spreading to the south and west to the foothills of the Great Dividing Range, where
the Richmond Valley Local Government Area is skirted by the Richmond Ranges.
The Richmond Valley environmental charter supports the ‘uptake of new and alternate technology
opportunities such as renewable energy options’ where they are shown to be economically viable and
‘compatible with this charter’ (p.51). In addition, a key action of Planning Priority 7 is to ‘avoid creating
land use conflict which could impact upon the future viability of productive rural lands’ (p.65).
Richmond Valley Local Environmental Plan, 2012
The Proposal site is located in the RU1 Primary Production zone, which aims to ‘encourage diversity in
primary industry enterprises and systems appropriate for the area’ whilst minimising ‘conflict between
land uses within this zone and land uses within adjoining zones’ (Land Use Table, zone RU1 objectives).
The nearest heritage item to the site, Main Camp Homestead and surrounds at Homestead Lagoon, is
located about one kilometre to the south of the Proposal site. An objective of the heritage
ii
conservation clause is to conserve the heritage significance of heritage items including ‘settings and
views’ (cl.5.10).
The site contains several wetlands, identified in the LEP mapping. An objective of the Wetland clause
is to ensure that wetlands are ‘preserved and protected from the impacts of development’ (cl.6.10),
including existing native flora.
Richmond Valley Development Control Plan 2021
The DCP supports the LEP by outlining requirements for development to meet community
expectations and address key environmental planning issues relevant to the LGA.
The site is located in the RU1 Primary Production zone, (Part D. Rural Land Uses). Development within
this zone is to be of a scale that is in ‘keeping with the character of the locality’.
The DCP does not specifically identify the requirements for assessing landscape and visual impact,
however, Part I-8 of the DCP (Social Impact Assessment) provides guidance and examples where social
impact assessment is required. This identifies the need to consider of the impact of a proposal upon
‘neighbourhood amenity’ (Part-I 8.3). The landscaping provision recommends planting, including
buffer planting, to reduce visual impact. Management of land use conflict issues, including visual
amenity, is also listed as a priority (Part I-11).
The provision for shipping containers, which have a similar appearance to battery storage facilities,
requires containers to be carefully located to minimise visual impact, and ensure that are not ‘visually
intrusive when viewed from that public place or from an adjacent property’ (Part I-13.2).
When designing a development for a site, the DCP indicates the need for thorough consideration and
response to context and site analysis, to ‘improve the quality of development through better planning,
design and consideration for the local community and environments’ (Part I-12).
4. Potential visibility of the project

The potential visibility of the project (refer to Figure C: Potential Visual Catchment) has been identified
through an analysis based on a digital surface model (includes terrain, built form and vegetation)
derived from LiDAR point cloud data. This analysis shows the pattern of potential visibility and is a
basis for fieldwork verification. This analysis considers views to the infrastructure within the proposed
development footprint (panel arrays and inverters).
Based on this analysis, the site is expected to have a very small visual catchment, with the site being
largely enclosed by landform and vegetation to the west, north west, northeast, east and south.
This analysis shows views being contained to areas near to the site, including:
• Avenue Road, as it passes through the site
• north facing slopes to the south of Avenue Road extending about 250 to 500 metres, and
• south facing slopes to the north of the site, extending about 1.2 kilometres.
Not all areas of the project development footprint would be seen from any area within this visual
catchment. Figure D (refer to Figure D: Pattern of potential visibility) shows the visual catchment of
smaller areas of the site, from west to east. This analysis generally shows that the westernmost and
easternmost areas of the solar farm development investigation area would have limited visual
catchments, and that the central areas of the project are more likely to seen from areas to the north
of the site. The western and central areas would be seen from Avenue Road.
iii
Not all areas within the potential visual catchment would have a similar view to the proposal. Further
analysis has been undertaken to examine the proportion of the development footprint that would be
seen from the areas within the visual catchment (refer to Figure E: Potential Extent of Visibility).
Views from private residential dwellings
While there are existing residential dwellings in small clusters and scattered across the surrounding
rural landscape, the visual catchment does not extend to include many private residential dwellings. In
particular, the group of residential dwellings to the southwest of the site are not expected to have
views of the project. The heritage property, Main Camp Homestead, to the south of the project, is also
not be expected to have views to the project.
There would, however, be the potential for views to the development footprint from the residential
dwellings on rural properties on the elevated land to the north of the site, near the junction of Avenue
and Ermela roads. Of this group of 17 dwellings, the closest six to seven dwellings within about 1.2
kilometres of the site have the potential for a view to the project (refer to Figure C: Potential Visual
Catchment). The analysis contained in Figure E shows that the visual catchment to the north of the
site having the potential for a view to either 1-10% or 11-20% of the proposed development footprint.
Therefore, from these private residential dwellings, there is the potential for a small proportion of the
overall proposal to be seen (refer to Figure E: Potential Extent of Visibility) due to landform and
intervening vegetation.
Views from Avenue Road
Avenue Road is a local road extending east between Main Camp Road in the southwest and Myall
Creek Road in the northeast. Avenue Road passes through the north western part of the site for about
three kilometres. There would be close range views to the project from this section of the road (refer
to Figure F: Visual catchment of Avenue Road). In these views, the development footprint (solar panel
arrays) would be seen, with a backdrop of vegetation formed by the surrounding forested areas on
elevated land.
Views from the Main Camp heritage property
The visual catchment (refer to Figure E: Potential Extent of Visibility) does not extend to the south
towards the Main Camp heritage property. This is due to localised screening vegetation within the
project site.
Views of the potential Substation and BESS site
The proposed substation and BESS site has been proposed for the north western corner of the site.
While on a slightly elevated location, the vegetation to the north and west of the site would restrict
the potential visual catchment of the site. This vegetation together with the landform would contain
views to the BESS and substation to areas within the site. Furthermore, the location of these elements
at the point within the site that is nearest to the location of the 330kV powerline easement, west of
the site, would limit the need for additional transmission line infrastructure within the site
infrastructure across the landscape.
It is proposed that the transmission line will extend west from the substation and BESS site, through
an area of existing bushland. While this will require the removal of vegetation, this route would have
limited visibility from surrounding areas due to the surrounding vegetation.
iv
5. Next steps
During the preparation of an EIS, a detailed visual assessment would be prepared that would further
analyse the potential visual impact of the project. This would include field verification of the visibility
analysis and an assessment of representative viewpoints of the project. This assessment would
identify the potential visual impact from the public domain, including from Avenue Road, and also
from private residential dwellings. The assessment of views from private dwellings would focus on the
residential dwellings to the north of the site. The potential amenity impacts of glare and reflectivity
would also be considered from private residential dwellings and roads in those areas where there is
the potential for a view to the project.
Further analysis of the visibility of the site, and site investigations would be undertaken to refine the
development footprint, determine the location of any infrastructure that has a high visibility, and
provision of screening vegetation, to respond to the views from residential dwellings with views to the
site. A landscape strategy would also be prepared to identify the proposed location of screen planting
to mitigate any potential visual impacts of the project.
References
DPIE, 2017, North Coast Regional Plan 2036, URL: https://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/Plans-for-your-
area/Regional-Plans/North-Coast/North-Coast-Regional-Plan (accessed 10/11/2021).
Richmond Valley Council, 2021, Richmond Valley Development Control Plan 2021, URL:
https://richmondvalley.nsw.gov.au/building-and-planning-services/strategic-planning/development-
control-plan/ (accessed 10/11/2021).
Richmond Valley Council, 2012, Richmond Valley Local Environmental Plan 2012, URL:
https://legislation.nsw.gov.au/view/whole/html/inforce/current/epi-2012-0098 (accessed
10/11/2021).
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File:RichmondValleySolar-Fig8-VisualCatchment-ALL-211122
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File:RichmondValleySolar-Fig9-VisualCatchment-Road-211108
oa d Date: 9/11/2021
horizontal (95% confidence Interval).
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Avenue Road at eye height (1.65m). shown herein prior to the commencement of any works based on this plan.
d
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Roa

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this map.
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m
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Analysis method:
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Road
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• A digital surface model was created for the
Ro
ad
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Jenbro
Ro
study st area at 2 metre pixel resoluƟon. The tl e

For
ok Tra
il
0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5
re e st
model
Fo consists of ground surface terrain and Roa d Kilometers
Kilometres
l d
e
rfi surface features i.e. trees and buildings (with A3 Scale: 1:50,000
M
al
y
lC
MYRTLE CREEK
ea
Cl re
an accuracy of +/-30cm verƟcal and +/-80cm !
(
e kR File:RichmondValleySolar-Fig10-VisualCatchment-BESS-211108
oa d Date: 9/11/2021
horizontal (95% confidence Interval).
• Visibility was modelled from points 5 metres The information shown on this plan may be insufficient for some types of
above ground level shown herein prior to the commencement of any works based on this plan.
d
• The areas that would view the proposed BESS

Roa

Tra i l
and substaƟon site are shown on this map.
lk
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py
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SCOPING REPORT
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EPURON PROJECTS PTY LTD

EPURON PROJECTS PTY LTD

Document reference: C:\12dS\data\12dSynergy\222027 Rappville Solar

6.2.1 GENERAL APPROACH ............................................................................................................................................ 47

Table 6 – June non associated receiver engagement ................................................................................................................ 38

Figure 1 – Regional Context

Table 1 – The site

Lot DP Size (hectares)

1.3 Planning Framework

a building or place used for the purpose of—

(a) making or generating electricity, or

(b) electricity storage

The proposed development is SSD on the following basis:

(b) the development is specified in Schedule 1 or 2.

1.4 Report Structure

• Renewable Energy Zones (REZs);

2.1.2 NORTH COAST REGIONAL PLAN 2036 (DPE 2016)

2.1.3 RICHMOND VALLEY LOCAL STRATEGIC PLANNING STATEMENT

The LSPS sets 8 planning priorities for the LGA, being:

4. Look after our environment.

2.1.4 RICHMOND VALLEY COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

The CSP identifies the following themes:

The vision is supported by a range of community priorities being:

1. Connecting people and places

• Fresh & Vibrant Community

2.2 Local Context

• The associated landowner C3-4 situated within Lot 29 DP 755607;

2.3 Site Description

2.3.3 EXISTING IMPORVEMENTS

Figure 3 – Site analysis

2.3.6.2 Soil Landscape

Figure 6 – Soil landscapes

Table 2 – Groundwater bore data

Bore Depth Drilled Depth Elevation Purpose

2.3.6.3 Surface Water

2.3.7 LAND RESOURCES

2.3.8 LAND USE

Table 3 – Land use summary within 2 km of the site

Land Use Area (ha) %

2.3.9 VEGETATION AND BIODIVERSITY

An additional summary of biodiversity characteristics is discussed in Section 6.6.

3.1 Project Objectives

3.1.1 SOLAR FARM

3.1.2 BATTERY ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM (BESS) FACILITY

3.1.3 GRID CONNECTION

3.2 Proposed Development Overview

3.3 Proposed Development Details

• Installation of solar panels, site substation and the BESS;

• Monitoring, testing and maintenance of onsite equipment

Figure 12 – Proposed materials transport route

3.4 Justification for the Preferred Option

Table 4 – Development options

Table 5 – Statutory requirements for a project

Matter: Guidance: Comment:

– Section 2.6(1)(a) of the Systems SEPP on

include the RU1 Primary Production zone

development would have a neutral or location of a plantation farming operation

Figure 13 – Land use zoning

5.1 Scoping Stage Consultation