The industries we work in include:
Renewables (Solar, battery energy storage system
Defence
Natural resource management, environmental structures, construction management
Lineal infrastructure (Telecommunications, NBN, fibre optic, water and electrical cable)
Mining and quarries
Energy, oil and gas, hydrogen
Planning - Residential development, new development change of land use, EPA licence/permission reviews
See below for a list of current and past projects Green Edge Environmental has assisted with.
Defence Projects
Puckapunyal Defence Bases Vegetation Assessment, 2022
Department of Defence required an assessment of two areas of native vegetation requiring removal. We were engaged to assess the site, determine if the sites trigger EPBC referral and calculate offsets.
Woomera road upgrade project, South Australia, 2022
Engaged as a sub consultant to support Department of Defence Internal approval process for the assessment of two borrow pits and 150km of existing road upgrades in the Woomera Prohibited Area. Included desktop assessment, State database searches, review of existing on-site assessments, new cultural heritage assessments. The output report assessed the project against State requirements, incorporated a risk assessment process.
Bandiana Fire Training Facility (VIC) 2020
This project aims to decommission the existing fire training ground and assess the impacts on a new area proposed for the fire training ground. The scope of works involves decommissioning the existing fire training facility and construction of a new fire training facility at the Bandiana Military Area (BMA). The Environmental Report was to the standards required in the Guidance on the Preparation of an Environmental Report.
Woomera Range Launcher Pad Remediation (SA) 2020
There are currently two rocket launchers on the site, Launcher 1 (L1), also referred to as the JAXA launcher, and Launcher 2 (L2), also referred to as the Hypervelocity Research Vehicle (HRV). A pavement assessment of the L1 and L2 area has been undertaken to determine suitability and make recommendations for remediation and/or replacement of the concrete pads. An ecological assessment was undertaken to ensure flora and fauna assets at the site would not be impacted.
SEA5000 Phase 1 future frigate facilities (SA) 2019
St Kilda Ecological assessment of proposed transmission greenfield site. This included a flora and fauna survey, development of mitigation strategies for the threatened vegetation community on site.
Kapooka Range Refurbishment (NSW) 2019
This project assessed the impacts to the upgrade a number of existing structures in previously disturbed land. The scope of works involves building works associated with firing range at Kapooka Military Area (KMA), Kapooka. The output was an Environment Report Defences Guidance on the Preparation of an Environmental Report (Version No 2, November 2017)
Puckapunyal Estate Base Plan (VIC) 2017
Project Manager for the environmental assessment components of the proposed upgrades to the existing facility.
SEA5000 Phase 1 future frigate facilities (SA) 2018
Environmental reviews in accordance with Defence’s Guidance on the preparation of an Environmental Report (ER) (Version No. 2, November 2017). The ER assessed the proposed actions against the Commonwealth’s obligations under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act).
Renewables and Energy
Due diligence assessment for 22 sites in Victoria and NSW identified for Battery Energy Storage and solar farms, Victoria and NSW, 2022
Our client had identified and started landholder negotiation of 22 potential development sites, and we identified a number of issues that impacted development approval of some sites. The client engaged us to review all sites to review the planning, environmental and cultural issues at each site. We provided high level cost estimates for each site to gain approval. The result was the two sites had incompatible zoning and development approval could not be granted.
Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP), Gas fired booster station, South Australia, 2022
We developed two CEMPs to support the approval process for new tapping points from the Moomba to Adelaide Gas pipeline to new gas fired power stations to provide energy into the National Energy Market. The project dealt with all construction aspects as well as dealing with shallow groundwater below the site and EPA licencing.
Development Approvals 20-100MW utility Battery Energy Storage Systems, South Australia 2022-current
We are project managing the assessment and approval for four utility scale battery projects around Adelaide. This includes identifying potential sites, multi-criteria analysis on identified sites, landholder negotiation to secure long term lease of land, impacts assessment, coordination of specialist sub-consultants, planning report, lodging and responding to RFI’s.
Assessment of greenfield sites for 20MW battery projects, north of Adelaide, (SA) 2021-current
Provision of planning and environment assessments for five candidate greenfield sites for a Client to build a portfolio of 20MW battery projects north of Adelaide in South Australia. This is feed in to shortlisting sites based on multiple criteria including indicative substation capacity, availability of suitable land and planning zoning considerations.
Bungama Battery Energy Storage Facility (SA) 2020
Green Edge were engaged to undertake a vegetation assessment for a proposed Battery Energy Storage facility (BESF), adjacent to the existing power substation at Bungama, Port Pirie, South Australia. This project included navigating the approval pathway, identifying the preferred location on site to minimise impacts.
Gas turbine peaking power plant, Outer Harbour (SA) 2020
Development of a Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) outlines the potential environmental issues and the range of management and mitigating strategies to be implemented throughout works associated with construction of a gas turbine peaking power plant project located near Snapper Point. The development and implementation of this CEMP will assist the development being compliant with relevant legislation, policies and good environmental management.
La Trobe University, Wodonga Campus (VIC) 2020
On behalf of the La Trobe University, we undertake a review and assessment of the potential impacts of a proposed 1.4 megawatt (MW) solar farm at the Wodonga Campus. The land proposed for the solar farm comprises approximately 1.75 hectares and included scattered trees and regrown native vegetation.
La Trobe University, Bendigo Campus (VIC) 2020
A proposed Solar PV Carport project at the Bendigo Campus and implementation of the Native Vegetation Framework under Clause 52.17 of the Bendigo Planning Scheme. We undertook assessment of designs, impacts to native vegetation and the TRZ and provided specialist advise to assist the project.
Mulwala Solar Farm (NSW) 80MW Solar Farm, Esco Pacific, 2018
Chris was the author and project manager for this project, undertaking the site assessment, coordinating the BAM, development of mitigation measures, negotiating with the landholder, Council and other NSW agencies to ensure minimal impact of the development. This included undertaking EPBC referral due diligence, developing a CHMP, and managing the full state planning process.
Tragowel Solar Farm (VIC) 2018
Project Management and specialist studies, planning permit application for a 500MW Solar Farms in Northern Victoria. This included completing flora and fauna assessments, managing specialist sub-contractors and development of the documentation to support the planning application
Lancaster Solar Farm, Cohuna, Girgarre, Tragowel, Macorna North, Corop and Kerang (VIC) 2017- 2019
Project Management and specialist studies, planning permit application for six 35 to 110MW Solar Farms in Northern Victoria. This included completing flora and fauna assessments, managing specialist sub-contractors and development of the documentation to support the planning application.
Mintaro Solar farm (SA) 2017
Undertake a high-level fatal flaw assessment of the planning and environmental constraints within a short timeframe to assist with the feasibility assessment of the project.
Gannawarra Solar Farm (VIC) 2017
Develop conditions of approval documents including CEMP, landscape management plan and bushfire management plan as per referral agency conditions. This project also included EPBC referral with a turnaround in 22 days.
Beach Energy (formally Drillsearch) (SA) 2016
Undertake flora, fauna and cultural heritage impact assessment for five well sites in the Cooper basin, development of Environmental Assessment Report as part of the licencing requirements
Epic Energy SA – Virginia gas meter station decommissioning audit, undertake pre- and post-decommission audit and reporting for licencing authority.
GPA Engineering (SA) 2016
Provision of planning advice, completion of an impact assessment for the Port Pirie Gas Pipeline, development of an Environmental Impacts Report (EIR), Statement of Environmental Objectives (SEO) and Construction Environmental Management Plan. This project included completing flora and fauna assessments along the pipeline route.
Epic Energy – EIR and CEMP (SA) 2016 and 2021
Development to facilitate the regulatory approvals process for a change in licence condition. This project required assessments at Moomba and Adelaide. This is a confidential project, so details cannot be provided.
Environmental impact assessment and approvals
Chris has over 20 years’ experience in undertaking flora and fauna assessments, impact assessments, State and EPBC referrals for terrestrial and marine projects. He is a BAM accredited assessor (NSW) (BAAS20023), accredited native vegetation quality assessor (VIC) and a certified environmental practitioner (EIANZ). He has developed over 40 land management plans, biodiversity offset plans and strategies and rehabilitation plans over his career. Every project undertaken required assessment against the triggers for State referral process and the EPBC Matters of National Significance (MNES) referral process. Early planning and internal assessment at a planning stage, ensures these triggers are known and the pros and cons of the process are known by developers.
Habitat assessment and regulatory approvals for Wentworth, Balranald and Central Darling Shire Council, private developers, Victoria, South Australia and New South Wales, 2011 to current
Green Edge Environmental was engaged to manage the approval process for the gaining of over 30 extractive industries licenses. This required the review of various legislation, habitat assessment, and negotiation with governmental authorities, development of Environmental Impact Studies (EIS, REF, SEE) and Environmental Management and Rehabilitation Plans.
Log Bridge, Old Wentworth Road and Bridge Road, Review of Environmental Factors, Wentworth Shire Council (2021-2022)
The three projects required assessment to determine impacts from the proposed upgrades. Each was assessed from an environmental and cultural heritage perspective, mitigation measures and risk assessment developed. AHIP was required for two of the projects as identified in the cultural heritage due diligence assessment.
Pooncarie- Menindee Road upgrade and seal, REF, Wentworth Shire Council (2021-current)
Wentworth Shire required a full and thorough review of the 22km proposed upgrade to the Pooncarie to Menindee Road to ensure any impacts were minimised and to fulfill the requirements of their funding arrangements. GEE developed a REF assessing the potential impacts to environmental and cultural assets along the Pooncarie to Menindee Road, undertook consultation with Agency stakeholders and the local Aboriginal Community.
Pooncarie- Menindee Road upgrade and seal, REF, Central Darling Shire Council (2019-current)
Central Darling Shire required a full and thorough review of the 62km proposed upgrade to the Pooncarie to Menindee Road to ensure any impacts were minimised and to fulfill the requirements of their funding arrangements. GEE developed a REF assessing the potential impacts to environmental and cultural assets along the Pooncarie to Menindee Road, undertook consultation with Agency stakeholders and the local Aboriginal Community.
Walking trail and swing bridge, Balranald Riverfront – REF, Balranald Shire Council (2020-2021)
Balranald Shire Council proposes to construct a foot bridge over the Murrumbidgee River and a footway creating a circuit along the township zone of the river area. The project concept also includes sculptures, fitness equipment, park furniture and various styles of foot paths. GEE is currently developing the REF to gain approvals.
New telecommunications installation, Toolleen VIC – Kordia P/L (2020)
Green Edge Environment undertook an assessment and developed a native vegetation report to accompany a planning permit application for the removal of native vegetation under Section 52.17 of the Planning Scheme.
350 Lot residential subdivision, Riverside Avenue Mildura– Alexfia P/L (2019)
Green Edge Environmental undertook a pre referral under the EES Act 1979 as requested by DELWP. Potential triggers of more than 10ha of native vegetation clearing and impact to threatened species were potential triggers for referral under the Act, additional information was developed and supplied to allow DELWP to make a determination, not requiring a referral which allowed the project to progress is a faster manner.
Old Menindee Town Weir Removal REF, DPIE 2019
Chris undertook the site assessment, including cultural heritage due diligence, agency assessment process, development of mitigation strategies, CEMP and EMR advice to DPIE.
Murrumbidgee WHS REF, WaterNSW (2017)
This project including assessing over 15 water management infrastructure sites proposed to be upgraded. Chris undertook the site impact assessments, developed the REF, including risk assessment and development of mitigation measures, to ensure compliance with State and Commonwealth legislation.
REF and controlled activity approval 2015-current
Green Edge Environmental was engaged to undertaken an impact assessment and working through the approvals process for five retaining walls on the Murray River near Echuca and Buronga. This project included site assessment, cultural heritage assessment negotiating with referral agencies.
REF and controlled activity approval 2015-current
Green Edge Environmental was engaged to undertaken an impact assessment and working through the approvals process for five retaining walls on the Murray River near Echuca and Buronga. This project included site assessment, cultural heritage assessment negotiating with referral agencies.
Arumpo Road review, Buronga for Aurecon 2014
Green Edge Environmental was engaged to provide high level advise to Aurecon to assist with the engineering feasibility and approval process to seal the 80km Arumpo Road leading to Mungo National Park and the Willandra Lakes World Heritage Area. This review included approvals for extractive industries, taking of water and development approvals.
Gravel quarry approvals, Penola, SA 2013/14 and 2019
Green Edge Environmental was engaged to manage the approval process for the gaining of a mineral claim and conversion to a mineral lease through the Department of State Development (formerly DMITRE). This required the review of various legislation, habitat assessment, and negotiation with governmental authorities, development of a Mining Lease Proposal (MLP) and Program for Environmental Protection and Rehabilitation (PEPR). The extractive mineral lease was successfully gained.
Project management of fence upgrade at Lake Victoria, NSW 2013
Green Edge Environmental was engaged to undertake a flora and fauna assessment, fence condition assessment and manage the engagement process of fence upgrade around the NSW owned and managed Nulla station. Liaison with neighbouring landholders, cost estimate, tendering and inductions phases were also undertaken as part of this project.
Flora and fauna assessment of channels to be upgraded in the Sunraysia Modernisation Project for Lower Murray Water, 2009/2010.
As project manager Chris organised flora and fauna assessment of 47km of channel easements, prepared reports and reviewed draft EES and d EPBC referral.
Flora and fauna assessment of channels to be upgraded in the Northern Victorian Irrigation Renewal Project, 2009 to present
Conducted flora and fauna assessments of proposed regulator sites and meter sites and compiled report on impacts as part of channel upgrade.
Environmental Impact Assessment and manage approvals process for construction of 10 water management structures at Mulcra Island as part of the Living Murray initiative in north west Victoria, 2007 to 2009.
As project manager, undertook field assessments for flora and fauna, compiled detailed report, compiled EPBC referral and habitat hectare assessment. Consulted with numerous stakeholders, including the client (Mallee CMA), the proponent, (SA Water), the land managers (Department of Sustainability and Environment and Parks Victoria), local council and the Commonwealth Government.
Flora and fauna assessments of 30 redundant structures, known as block-banks, on the Great Darling Anabranch, 2008 to 2009.
As project manager, undertook fieldwork and liaison with the client (Department of Commerce) and Wentworth Shire Council (contractor). Compiled detailed report on minimising and avoiding environmental impacts during removal of the block-banks in preparation for receiving environmental flows.
Coordinated the approvals process and expert reports for a gypsum mine in NSW 2008-2009.
Arranged assessment of the land for cultural heritage and flora and fauna. Organised meetings with regulatory authorities and prepared reports, maps, land manager’s consent, Crown licence and development applications. Responded to questions from authorities.
River frontage action plan works and environmental enhancement works, 2009 to 2012 for Lower Murray Darling CMA
As project manager, called for landholder expressions of interest, assessed proposals, planned the works, invited tenders and managed implementation of works on selected sites along the Darling and Murray Rivers in NSW.
Scoping study on impacts on flora and fauna for extending Mildura Marina, 2008.
Project manager in site assessment and reporting on potential impacts of a proposed expansion of the Marina.
Conducted flora and fauna assessment and compiled a habitat hectare analysis for a new road at Wemen, Victoria for Timbercorp Ltd, 2008.
As project manager, conducted site assessment and prepared report on potential impacts of the proposed road to a new irrigated almond development.
Compliance and audit
Chris has over 15 years’ experience as the EMR for large scale projects, including developing and reviewing the CEMP’s and developing compliance reports for the $100M Koondrook-Perricoota Flood Enhancement Project and the $42MHattah Lakes Environment Flows Project. He has a tertiary qualification in environmental science and has worked both contractor and Agency side in managing environmental management on large scale infrastructure projects.
Menindee to Pooncarie Initial Seal Project EMR, Central Darling Shire Council, 2020
In this role Chris has developed the REF to assess the project, is currently developing the CEMP to be used by the contracting companies delivering the project and will provide ongoing auditing services over the three-year lifespan of the project (and the 62km of road upgrade the project will deliver).
Menindee Old Weir Removal CEMP and EMR services, DPIE, 2020
Chris developed the CEMP and environmental compliance documentation for the removal of the weir on behalf of DPIE. This included the risk assessment, mitigation activities and auditable documentation for compliance.
Wentworth to Broken Hill Pipeline, EMR services to John Holland JV, 2018
Chris was initially brought on to finalise the approvals for the project. He then refined the REF addendum process, the CEMP and the compliance documentation. He completed internal audits on the JV’s EMR team to ensure compliance with the project approvals.
Hattah Lakes Flood Enhancement project under the Living Murray Program, 2012/13
As environmental project manager to the managing contractor for this $42M program, developed the construction environmental management plan for the project to minimise impact on the environment and provided the site environmental managers role during construction, including reporting to state and federal authorities and internal and external audits.
Koondrook –Perricoota Flood Enhancement project, under the Living Murray Program, 2011 to 2013
Provided the environmental management officer role for the during the construction phase of the $60M project.
Environmental audit of construction of a large pumping station and three rising mains at Piambie, Victoria, 2008 to 2009 Timbercorp Ltd
As project manager, reviewed compliance during construction against the conditions attached to approvals of this major infrastructure project on the Murray River floodplain.
EPBC Referrals
Girgarre Solar Farm EPBC referral (2018/8266) Leeson Projects P/L.
After undertaking the fauna and fauna assessment for the project to gain State approval, an EPBC referral was lodged to ensure compliance with funder’s requirements. Chris was the author of the referral, completing the online referral. The referral was completed to a high standard, no additional questions were raised by the Department and the outcome was that the activity was not a controlled action.
Cohuna Solar Farm (2018/8268) EPBC Referral, Grey Box Energy Field P/L.
After undertaking the fauna and fauna assessment for the project to gain State approval, an EPBC referral was lodged. This project included the assessment of native vegetation to be removed, determining the required offsets and working with a broker to gain native vegetation credits for the removal of native vegetation. Chris was the author of the referral, completing the online referral. The referral outcome was that the activity was not a controlled action.
Potentially contaminated site investigation
Undertaking a phase one environmental assessment for a private developer in Buronga, 2012
The developer planned change land use from intensive agriculture to residential development. This assessment was required to ensure the land was safe for the proposed use.
Review of Western Murray Irrigations Environmental Protection (EPA) Licence, 2010 and 2012.
Chris undertook a review of the current conditions of the EPA licence, negotiating changes to adhere to standards and thresholds, and completing a risk assessment. This significantly reduced the sampling and cost requirements for WMI to adhere to their EPA licence.
Undertaking a phase two environmental assessment for Broken Hill City Council at a former power station, 2009.
The council planned to transform the former power station into a museum, car park and development of a film studio. This assessment was required to ensure the premise was safe for the proposed use.
Undertaking an assessment of soil conditions for Bovis Lend Lease for the proposed Mallee Solar Park, Northern Victoria, 2010.
This assessment of a dryland cropping paddock was the first step in determining suitability for a potential land
use change to a photovoltaic solar farm.
Completion of a phase one and two environmental assessment for CitiPower/PowerCorp pole yard prior to the lease commencing, 2010.
This project was required to undertake a site history and sampling to determine if the proposed site was suitable for its proposed use and to also ensure the site was not contaminated prior to the company commencing operations at the site.
Project management of an environmental assessment for a national retailer proposing to develop a vacant site in Fifteenth Street Mildura for a retail development, 2009.
This due diligence assessment was required to ensure the site was safe prior to commencing the development