Within our team we have several specialist mammal handlers, with extensive experience in live-trapping and tracking of devils and quolls across the state. We have previously conducted targeted live-trapping surveys for Tasmanian devils, using our custom-made PVC pipe traps, a wealth of trapping expertise and many kilograms of tasty meat.

In these surveys we identify each individual with a unique microchip, and collect fundamental demographic information such as sex, age, weight, body condition and breeding status. This information is databased with NRE, contributing to long-term multi-project monitoring datasets covering the state – this broader information can be critical for understanding rates of recapture for longer term metrics. We also assess individuals for signs of Devil Facial Tumour Disease (DFTD) and record the number of breeding females and pouch young in the population.

Data collected in trapping surveys allows us to conduct statistical modelling to determine the population size and relative density of the population, as well as inform us of the number of active natal dens in the region – an essential factor in assessing potential impacts from developments. Live-trapping also gives us detailed insights into the prevalence of DFTD in a population, a critical consideration in predicting long-term population level changes.

Our team also have experience in tagging and tracking quolls and devils across a range of landscapes. Radio-telemetry and GPS tracking allows even greater insight into exactly how the species are using the landscape, identifying territories, natal den locations and other critical landscape features which can guide the design of infrastructure in the planning process.

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Generally, to maximise protection, we recommend trees in development situations are buffered with specific-sized tree protection zones as per AS 4970—2009. As part of this, accuracy is key, as a few metres here and there will make a huge difference to root-zone impacts and the potential for trees to survive the development. To give us the best accuracy, we undertake precision tree surveys with a differential GPS (DGPS) – our Emlid Reach provides the high-accuracy (down to cm accuracy) spatial information needed to support responsible development, effective environmental planning and risk avoidance from proximity to trees – this helps identify constraints early, informs regulatory assessments, and supports decisions that balance project goals with tree protections and retention.

We’ve put this technology to use in many projects, include road upgrades, sporting facilities and general urban development. Our precise datasets enable the proponents on these developments to:

• Understand the locations of conservation significant trees for design avoidance and/or mitigation measures.
• Make data-informed decisions to avoid or minimise vegetation removal aided by our tree retention plans and recommendations.

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Recently we put our skills and equipment in this space to use with a detailed assessment of trees identified as potential nesting habitat for the swift parrot and Tasmanian masked owl. Using advanced UAV technology, our team rapidly captured high-resolution imagery of every tree, enabling precise evaluation and classification of hollows and their nesting suitability. Drones provided safer, faster access to upper canopy areas, eliminating the need for risky climbs or disruptive equipment. Our GIS experts and ecologists then analysed the data to determine which hollows met species-specific habitat requirements and could be prioritised for avoidance. 

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With the scant recent records from the far NE and NW being relevant to some of our project areas, North Barker in recent years have undertaken targeted surveys for the species, accompanied by expert entomologist Dr Simon Grove – TMAG Curator of Invertebrates.

We start with stratified habitat modelling, noting however this is difficult for the species due to so few confirmed observations. Accordingly we then undertake ground checks to validate habitat modelling – then, within suitable habitat, the real (fun) search begins!

Our targeted grasshopper surveys are conducted on calm, warm, sunny days. Our team then undertake meandering transects with nets in hand. Specimens are collected for identification using the hand nets and stored in specimen jars while examined. Photographs are taken for verification and future reference, with captured individuals released at their collection site within minutes. In some cases early in the season when only nymphs are present to be captured, individuals will be grown on until they can be definitively identified as adults. Using this method we have recorded the species several times in NE Tasmania, providing valuable knowledge consolidating its historical and extant range, as well as providing critical information for avoidance and mitigation within our projects.

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Found along the forested margins of waterways, with most occurrences in the south, west, north and northwest coasts, the main threat to the Tasmanian azure kingfisher is clearing and modification of riparian vegetation.

North Barker are highly experienced at kingfisher surveys for the purpose of determining presence/absence of the species, using a combination of methods including visual and aural detections, trail cameras, and bioacoustic recording.​

The species nests in holes drilled in the banks of streams, thus destruction of banks and fluctuating water levels can put the nest tunnels at risk and are a key part of our survey efforts – finding a nest is very rare, and even more so it is rare to get video footage like this of the nest in use!

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During the planning and approvals phase, our team undertook a natural values assessment and identified a population of Bolboschoenus caldwellii (sea club sedge) within the development footprint. Listed as rare under the Tasmanian Threatened Species Protection Act 1995, this species is limited in both distribution and population size in Tasmania. Approximately 52.5 linear metres, about 43% of the local population was likely to be affected by works.

In response, we developed a comprehensive Translocation Plan on behalf of the City of Hobart. With a permit approved by the Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania (NRE), we carried out the on-ground translocation. Mature B. caldwellii plants, including their rhizomes and surrounding soil, were carefully excavated and relocated to nearby semi-submerged marsh habitat that closely replicates their original conditions. We prioritised mature plants to maximise survival, drawing on insights from earlier wetland planting projects.

To provide further protection, we also established an ex-situ insurance population. Seed and vegetative material were collected and propagated off site, where they will be maintained for five years. This will safeguard against loss and provide a source for reinforcement planting if needed.

To support long-term outcomes, our team developed a five-year monitoring and maintenance program, aiming for at least 75% survival. This work strengthens an existing population of B. caldwellii outside the impact area, and with improved natural habitat conditions we anticipate a net benefit to the species, with potential for the local population to expand beyond its original size.

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Following TASVEG A Manual for Assessing Vegetation Condition in Tasmania, the VCA method assigns a patch of vegetation a score (out of 100) based on the site condition and the landscape context. It is used as a comparative tool to monitor the improvement or decline in site condition. The information it provides can help land managers target rehabilitation to improve site characteristics.

The goal of the NBES surveys was to assess vegetation patches based on their VCA scores compared to their fire history, in order to provide advice pertaining to future bushfire hazard management planning.  The surveys also provided an opportunity to produce a detailed vegetation map of the bushland reserves, highlight any conservation significant values, and identify sites with declared weeds for eradication and management.

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In addition to our marine fauna survey capabilities we have technical expertise and experience to act as regulatory advisors and/or intermediary roles for peer-review of other consultants, including aspects of survey design and adequacy, as well as comparative/complementary value of other methods. We are also members of the NOPSEMA consulting panel formed to provide technical advice to inform assessment and decision-making processes in relation to offshore energy projects and strategic marine projects.

BOWE – Bass Strait Offshore Wind Energy Project

• Key Tasmanian advisors on natural values planning and risk considerations since 2020, with advice on:
  • Natural values constraints such as IBAs and migratory pathways in relation to site selection, including predictive modelling of critical habitats and aquatic ecological communities.
  • Regulatory and planning advice in relation to approvals pathways at state and federal level, including considerations under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, international treaties and the Offshore Electricity Infrastructure Act 2021, including compliance with NOPSEMA and DCCEEW – peer review of planning approvals pathway.

Gippsland Declared Area – seabird and marine mammal surveys

• Lead ecology consultant for boat-based seabird and marine mammal surveys; lead for technical avifauna reporting, including CRM results.
• Application of fixed transects following the European Seabirds at Sea and StUK4 protocols.
• Survey design and logistics associated with multi-day vessel surveys.

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We are currently applying our marine fauna survey services in several areas, including:

• Lead ecology consultant for boat-based seabird and marine mammal surveys on a project in the Gippsland Declared Area; lead for technical avifauna reporting, including CRM results.
• Seabird colony and dispersal pathway (penguins) mapping for impact avoidance.
• Marine mammal observations for onshore projects with adjacent marine impacts (e.g. pipelines, outfalls, wharf construction).

Scientific credentials and accreditation

• Our senior staff are highly regarded in the planning appeals arena in relation to third party verification, expert testimony and planning support.
• Supporting members of NOPSEMA consulting panel formed to provide technical advice to inform assessment and decision-making processes in relation to offshore energy projects and strategic marine projects.
• Our company holds a license to conduct animal research in Tasmania issued by the Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania (NRE).
• Highly experienced in animal ethics approvals (multiple staff are accredited as chief investigators) and in applying for NRE Permit to Take Threatened Species and/or Products of Wildlife.
• Experienced publication reviewers (peer review) for multiple scientific journals.
• Several of our staff are certified as Marine Mammal Observers (MMO – JNCC).
• Several of our staff are licensed drone pilots for UAVs up to 25 kg.
• Multiple personnel experienced in bird-banding and handling.
• Staff trained and accredited through Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET).

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For terrestrial (onshore) projects we have completed several long-term bird utilisation surveys (density estimates, usage patterns, flight profiles), general natural values assessments (including bats), eagle nest searches, collision risk modelling, and targeted surveys and impact assessments for a variety of threatened values (cetaceans, butterflies, grasshoppers, New Holland mouse, Miena jewel beetle, orchids, threatened vegetation, and various avifauna including owls and seabirds).

We are experienced in guiding such projects from the planning and risk reduction phase all the way through to approvals, including various requirements along different assessment pathways, such as referral submission and assessment of controlled actions under the EPBCA, and technical contributions to EIS and MPIS within state approvals pathways, such as level 2 assessments under EMPCA through the EPA, and the major projects pathway through the TPC.

In the offshore space we have a team of specialist seabird surveyors and certified marine mammal observers (JNCC) suitable for offshore renewable energy assessments and equivalent marine surveys. We are also members of the NOPSEMA consulting panel formed to provide technical advice to inform assessment and decision-making processes in relation to offshore energy projects and strategic marine projects.

We are experienced in dealing with the variety of natural values constraints that face renewables projects and able to support clients in developing appropriate and meaningful mitigation measures once avoidance opportunities have been exhausted. Examples of mitigation that we have instigated include turbine design and placement, physical offsets (with associated management plans), habitat creation and restoration, translocations, and use of automatic curtailment systems supported by species identification and tracking.

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