As offshore wind farm ecological consultants, we can demonstrate active marine fauna survey experience in Bass Strait, backed by onshore wind expertise across 180+ projects. We're bringing best practice to Australian waters, while developing the regulatory relationships this emerging sector demands.
Gippsland 01 Baseline Surveys
Partnership with HiDef Aerial Surveys (UK)
Senior Seabird Specialists
Offshore Survival & Medical Certification
Bass Strait Focus
Offshore Wind Energy Project Lifecycle
1
Feasibility Assessment
What we do
Desktop impact assessments conducted prior to field survey completion.
Methods
Reviews of databases, literature, reports and regulations. Identification of impact pathways and species of concern.
Deliverables
Initial Feasibility Report
2
Impact Assessment
What we do
Quantitative impact assessment based on survey data and collision risk modelling.
Methods
Boat-based survey, aerial survey, data analysis, mapping
Deliverables
Impact assessment report for regulatory submission, referrals and community consultation.
3
Operational Monitoring & Adaptive Management
What we do
We will work with developers to implement best practice in operational monitoring and impact mitigation of offshore wind facilities. New technology is continually emerging and we will ensure the delivery to support development partners.
Why clients work with Nature Advisory
Marine Environmental Complexity
Regulatory Framework
Technical Challenges
Marine Fauna Specialists
Marine Environmental Complexity
Surveys conducted via boat in challenging weather. Marine fauna is mobile, so activity patterns are less predictable than in terrestrial fauna.
Our team includes Senior Ecologists Dr Tim Reid (co-author Seabird Atlas of South-eastern Australian Waters) and Peter Lansley (Senior Seabird Observer), and Senior Ecologist and Project Manager, Dr John Gibbens (PhD Marine Ecology, Bass Strait fur seals).
Assessment of impacts to Matters of National Environmental Significance (listed species, ecological communities) under the EPBC Act, determining whether Commonwealth approval is required. Needed for any major project that might affect Commonwealth-protected environmental values.
Formal documentation submitted to the Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water to determine if your project requires Commonwealth environmental assessment. Essential when you need certainty about Commonwealth requirements before proceeding, or when impacts to listed species/communities are likely.
Independent expert review of ecological reports, identifying gaps, methodological concerns, or alternative interpretations. Essential before formal submission or when facing contentious approvals.
