11.2 sustainable development · 2017-11-16 · 11.2 sustainable development . 11.2.1 environmental...

SHIRE OF AUGUSTA MARGARET RIVER ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING 22 NOVEMBER 2017

11.2 Sustainable Development 11.2.1 ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY STRATEGY – FOR

FINAL APPROVAL

Attachment 1 – Environmental Elements of Sustainability Strategy – modified post advertising

The Environmental Elements of Sustainability Strategy

Natural | Connected | Prosperous

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Contents

Executive summary 4

Introduction 5

Strategic alignment 6

Our journey – development of the Strategy

8

The Augusta Margaret River environment – a snapshot

10

Making sense of environmental sustainability

14

Focus areas 16Climate change 17

Green energy 18

Water 19

Natural areas 20

Consumption 22

Action areas 25Governance 26

Funding 27

Community empowerment 28

Recommendations – our Strategy 29

Acknowledgement of CountryThe Shire of Augusta Margaret River would like to acknowledge that we are on Wadandi and Pibelmen country whose ancestors and their descendants are the traditional owners of this country.

We acknowledge that they have been custodians for many centuries and continue to perform age old ceremonies of celebration, initiation and renewal. We acknowledge their living culture and their unique role in the life of this region.

It is the Shire’s sincere hope that Aboriginal Australians share fairly and equitably in the Shire’s cultural, environmental and economic future.

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Executive summary

The vision – Our interaction with the Shire of Augusta Margaret River’s natural environment is harmonious, and results in outcomes which are beneficial for both the environment and the community. We are a sustainable Shire which sustains, and is sustained by, nature.

The Shire of Augusta Margaret River, with the support of the local community have in place a range of programs aimed at preserving and enhancing the natural environment. Our vision is to live work and recreate in harmony with the environment in such a way as to sustain its current qualities into the future.

Some of the environmental threats we face, such as climate change, are beyond our capacity to control. However, local government plays an important role in undertaking on ground actions and providing strong leadership, which has the potential to change community attitudes and encourage positive behaviour change.

The Shire of Augusta Margaret River Environmental Elements of Sustainability Strategy (hereafter the Strategy) will elevate the status of the environment as a factor influencing Council’s operations, its programs and its services, at both a corporate and community level. The Strategy provides the strategic framework to achieve this vision, by guiding decisions, helping to shape plans and activities undertaken across the Shire. While the Shire has significant ability to influence sustainable outcomes, it cannot do so alone. The Strategy has

a grass roots focus, which will provide resources to community groups and members so that their enthusiasm, dedication and expertise can achieve even greater results.

Three key action areas will be pursued (Governance, Funding and Community Empowerment) which have been identified in response to input provided during the consultation process. Each area is assigned pathways and programs, representing our high-level strategy. Measurable KPIs will be set to record our progress towards the goals identified in this strategy thus providing transparency and conveying Council’s commitment to achieving a sustainable Shire together with the community.

As refined and agreed through the consultation undertaken to date, the Strategy has five key focus areas which represent the main environmental issues which we face. Each focus area is assigned goals with specific projects having been designed to help us achieve those goals.

FOCUS AREAS GOALS

Climate change A resilient Shire

Green energy A low carbon Shire

Water A water sensitive Shire

Natural Areas An ecologically healthy, and self-sustaining Shire

Consumption A responsible Shire

Our vision: Our interaction with the Shire of Augusta Margaret River’s natural environment is harmonious, and results in outcomes which are beneficial for both the environment and the community. We are a sustainable Shire which sustains, and is sustained by, nature.

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Introduction

The Shire of Augusta Margaret River has a strong commitment to protecting the environmental values on which the region’s lifestyle, tourism and economy are based. The Shire’s Corporate Business Plan 2016–2020 identifies preparation of an Environmental Sustainability Strategy (ESS) as being an important project requiring finalisation during that period.

The Wadandi people have been custodians of our environment for thousands of years. The challenge for our present community is to sustain and ideally improve our natural environment so that future generations can enjoy and benefit from it as we have.

The Strategy has been preceded by a comprehensive consultation process informed by an ‘Issues Paper’ which sets out the primary environmental threats we face and the ways in which the Shire and community are currently approaching those threats. The consultation process resulted in the emergence of new ideas about ways for the Shire to maintain and enhance the sustainability of our natural environment in partnership with the community.

The purpose of the Strategy is to provide a strategic framework for planning projects, improving business structures and allocating resources towards environmental management and sustainability.

In the document that follows, you will find the Shire’s Environmental Elements of Sustainability Strategy, which is expressed as:

Our vision: What qualities do we want out local environment to exhibit in the future?

Focus areas: Which aspects of our interaction with the environment should we direct our resources towards?

Goals: What do we want to achieve in each of the focus areas?

Action areas: Which areas can we improve upon to achieve our goals?

Pathways: What approach do we take to each action area?

Projects: Recommended programmes, which help us, achieve our goals and vision

As directed by stakeholders and the community through the initial consultation process. The Strategy focuses not only what the Shire can achieve as a responsible corporate citizen in its own right. It also makes recommendations as to how the Shire can collaborate with government agencies and community groups, which undertake work in the environmental and sustainability space. Finally and perhaps most importantly, the Strategy recognises that many of the environmental issues we face will only be addressed in a meaningful way if wide scale behaviour change is effected right across the community. In this sense, the Strategy recognises that the community is the greatest asset, in helping to achieve our environmental sustainability targets.

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Strategic alignment

The Shire of Augusta Margaret River’s Vision has sustainability at its core and can be summed up in three words – natural, connected and prosperous.

Our vision drives the long term Community Strategic Plan, which drives the four year Corporate Plan, which is in turn, is informed by a variety of key strategic documents including the Environmental Elements of Sustainability Strategy. Corporate strategies are fundamental in delivering transformational change

across the Shire and meeting challenges and grasping opportunities. Of critical importance is the health and sustainability of our environment as we undergo growth and economic development. This recommendations contained within this Strategy are to be implemented and evaluated across all directorates of the Shire.

Environmental sustainability strategic alignment

Community Strategic Plan

20 years

Corporate Plan 4 years

Operational Plan and Budget

1 year

Business Unit Plans

Ongoing monitoring and review framework

Annual Report

Long Term Informing Strategy 10 years

Local Planning Strategy*endorsed by State Dept of Planning

Workforce Plan

Asset Management Plan and Policy

Long Term Financial PlanLegislation

Local Government (Administration) Regulations 1996

Federal and state strategic plans Legislative changes

Strategy framework

Issue specific strategies and plans

Economic Development Strategy

Environmental Sustainability Strategy

Community Infrastructure Plan

Community Resilience Strategy

Events Strategy

Developer Contributions Policy

Local Planning Scheme and Planning Policies

Local decision making

Overarching Sustainability Policy

Policy Framework - 107 supporting policies

Risk Management Framework

Council resolutions

Implementation

The Shire is responsible for implementing actions in line with the annual budget

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Corporate strategies are fundamental in delivering transformational change across the Shire and meeting challenges and grasping opportunities.

Our journey – development of the Strategy

The development of this Strategy has been preceded by the preparation of an issues paper in collaboration with key stakeholders including the Sustainability Advisory Committee (SAC). The issues paper was subject to a comprehensive consultation exercise, with submissions being used to inform the development of the Strategy.

What you said in response to the issues paper.Of the 51 submissions received most respondents supported the Shire in preparing a Strategy. All of the environmental issues discussed in the issues paper were ranked by respondents as being very important with ‘biodiversity protection’ being seen as being slightly more important than others.

In relation to the Shire’s current expenditure on environmental and sustainability initiatives, most respondents suggested increased spending was desired however, 45.7% of respondents considered current spending as “about right”.

Specific issues raised by respondents included:

Calls such as that for “more stringent environmental planning policy” highlighted the role that respondents see for the Shire to make and enforce rules and policy.

Submissions such as that requesting “further support (for) local environmental protection groups” recognises the important role local environmental organisations play and their reliance on the Shire for funding and support.

Submissions which recommend promotion of “an environmental sustainability culture of behaviour” acknowledged that the community (with some support from the Shire) provide the biggest opportunity for implementation of sustainable behaviours and projects.

With 5 the most important and 1 the least important, please indicate what environmental issues you believe the Shire should be focusing its resources on.

Question options Very unimportant Unimportant Not sure Important Very important

Climate change

Coastal protection and adaptation

Biodiversity protection

Waste management

Water quality and conservation

Other

10 20 30 40 50

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A grass roots approachIn summary, submissions helped to identify three spheres within the community each with a role to play in driving positive environmental and sustainability outcomes. These are:

Corporate (Shire processes and staff) – There is a need for the Shire to act as a good corporate citizen to ensure that its behaviours reflect community values with respect to the environment. Examples include the Shire’s use of energy, water and its approach to waste. Submissions identified the need for the Shire to make policies both for itself and for the community so that both can be held to the same high environmental standards.

Collaborative (the Shire together with community groups) – The Shire is relied upon to part fund the good work of partner organisations specialising in the environment and sustainability field. Where the work of the Shire and other agencies overlap, submissions stressed the need for resources to be pooled to improve outcomes e.g weed eradication. Examples include coordinating the focus of onground works to identified geographical areas together with other agencies or landcare groups. Other examples include the opportunity for the Shire to provide part funding to projects that can then use the Shires support to attract funding from other sources.

Community (the individuals who make up our community) – Whether it be actions and behaviours carried out in the home, undertaking volunteer work in the public realm or providing thoughtful submissions in response to Shire planning processes, the community are our biggest asset and a valuable source of manpower and good ideas. Submissions flagged the need for the Shire to provide some support to individuals to assist them to ‘do the right thing’ whether by way of information or incentives.

These spheres of influence have informed the development of this strategy in identifying the ‘action areas’

Corporate Governance

FundingCollaborative

Community

About right 21(45.7%)

Too much 1 (2.2%)

Too little 24 (52.1%)

Community Empowerment

The issues paper provides details as to the financial resources currently directed towards environmental projects. Do you believe the amount of money spent is...

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The Augusta Margaret River environment – a snapshot

NaturalThe Shire of Augusta Margaret River is 237,000 ha in size. The northern Shire boundary is 250 kilometres from Perth and extends in a southerly direction for approximately 60 kilometres and 62 kilometres from the west coast to the eastern boundary of our neighbour, the Shire of Nannup. The Shire has an extensive coastline with 138 kilometres of beaches, bays and rocky points.

Over 60 per cent of native vegetation cover is retained including 82,246 ha of State Forest and 18,815 ha within reservations including Scott National Park. The Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park includes the Boranup Karri Forest between Caves Road and the coast where karri trees reach 60 metres in height and dominate the landscape. Vegetation forms part of a wider corridor referred to as the ‘Gondwana Link’, where concerted efforts are being made to restore cleared land across 1,000km of south Western Australia.

The Shire forms part of the Southwest Australia Ecoregion (SWAE), which has global significance given its high levels of natural diversity, particularly for plants. The SWAE is one of 34 internationally recognised biodiversity hotspots and is the only one in Australia. This listing recognises both the high species diversity of the south

west, making it irreplaceable, and the retention of 30 per cent or less of the original natural vegetation, meaning it is threatened.

We are fortunate in the Shire to have a higher (than in the wider south west) retention of natural ecosystems that are largely intact and where native species and communities associated with these ecosystems are well represented. A high diversity of plant and animal species, many of which are endemic (not found elsewhere), makes our Margaret River Region one of the recognised Australian priority ‘hotspot’ areas for biodiversity conservation. It is estimated that within the Shire there are:

• 8 threatened ecological communities;

• 57 vegetation complexes including 20 that are endemic to the Shire and a significant number which are threatened or poorly reserved;

• 69 declared rare and priority flora species; and

• 28 declared threatened fauna species including the Western Ringtail Possum.

A number of endangered species are endemic to the Shire, for example the Margaret River Hairy Marron and Burrowing Crayfish, White-bellied Frog and Cape Leeuwin Freshwater Snail. The cave systems support aquatic invertebrates found only in Western Australia and threatened cave communities.

Three true river systems (Margaret River, Blackwood River and Scott River) and 18 creek systems provide water for agriculture and the environment. The waterways, apart from the Blackwood, have not been affected by salinity as have many others in Australia. Hence, they have immense natural values and are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. These streams are important habitat for fresh water fishes such as Balston’s pygmy perch and the western mud minnow. Many wetland systems have also been cleared and modified by drainage. Those remaining therefore have significant value, including Cape Leeuwin wetlands, Lake Davies, Devils Pool and the Margaret River swamps.

Many pressures are placing our natural environment at risk. A review of our current actions is critical to ensuring that protection is in place not only for our precious biodiversity but also our landscapes, lifestyles, tourism, recreation and the businesses that depend on them.

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Environmental Assets

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HumanThe population of the Shire has risen steadily at 3.4 per cent per annum since 1991 and as at 2016 was estimated to be 14,687 persons. It is variously predicted that the population will continue to increase to between 16,500 and 21,000 persons by 2031.

The Augusta Margaret River community typically reside in three-bedroom detached homes on freehold residential allotments of between 500m2 and 800m2. The average household size is 2.5 persons per dwelling. In order to accommodate the anticipated population growth within this form and density of development, 3,200 residential lots will be needed over the next 16 years to 2031, requiring approximately 410ha of ‘raw’ land to be developed into new residential subdivisions.

Naturally, an increase in population leads to the generation of increased amounts of household waste, water use, carbon emissions from transport and electricity use and increased pressure on the natural environment. On average, each new household will, over the course of one year, produce 14 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions use 288,000 litres of water and produce 3.3 tonnes of waste.

As the Shire grows to meet the expectations of a larger community, so too will its corporate consumption and waste generation if not otherwise addressed.

A generally accepted way of measuring the human impact on the natural environment is ‘ecological footprinting’. The ecological footprint is a measure of the total amount of land required to supply all the resources a person’s lifestyle demands. This includes land disturbance related to agriculture and other activities, as well as a component to account for greenhouse gas emissions (World Wide Fund for Nature 2006). It is calculated that Australia’s ecological footprint is on average 6.45ha per person, making it one of the highest in the world. Contrary to popular conception, the main factor influencing the size of our ecological footprint is the embodied energy and water in the food and goods, which we consume.

There are immense human resources residing in the Shire with the knowledge and passion for protection and enhancement of the natural environment. The Shire partners with a number of groups and committed individuals who work together to achieve common environmental objectives. The Shire’s project partners include

• Nature Conservation Margaret River Region

• Curtin University Sustainability Policy Institute

• Transition Margaret River

• Sustainability Advisory Committee

• Margaret River Regional Environment Centre

• Lower Blackwood Catchment LCDC

• Margaret River Coastal Residents Association

• Friends of the Hardy Inlet

• Friends of the Margaret River

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The population of the Shire has risen steadily at 3.4 per cent per annum since 1991 and as at 2016 was estimated to be 14,687 persons.

Making sense of sustainability

The term ‘sustainability’ as it is currently used derives from ‘sustainable development’ a term used to explain a development paradigm defined by the World Commission on Environment and Development in 1987 as “development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs”.

Despite being often used, the concept of sustainability has remained elusive and has taken on different emphasis dependent on which ‘pillar of sustainability’, the user seeks to reinforce.

In recent times, climate change has emerged as the most pressing of issues impacting upon ‘sustainability’ and therefore has become a proxy for sustainable development with any actions aimed at mitigating against climate change considered to be inherently ‘sustainable’.

In 2015, the United Nations adopted Sustainable Development Goals for the period to 2030. The goals assist in achieving an understanding of what sustainable development and sustainability ‘look like’. As they relate to the environmental elements of sustainability, the goals are:

Goal 6. Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all

Goal 7. Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all

Goal 12. Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns

Goal 13. Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts

Goal 14. Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development

Goal 15. Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss

TRANSFORMING OUR WORLD: THE 2030

AGENDA FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

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All of the SDGs have targets that are directly or indirectly related to the daily work of local and regional governments. Local governments should not be seen as mere implementers of the agenda. Local governments are policy makers, catalysts of change and the level of government best-placed to link the global goals with local communities. (UCLG)

The Australian Federal Government is responsible for setting the strategic policy direction relating to significant environmental issues such as climate change. Arguably the most significant policy decision of recent times has been Australia’s commitment to the “Paris Agreement” which together with over 100 other countries, commits Australia to significantly reducing green house gas emissions over the short to medium term. In accordance with the agreement the federal government have a plan to cut emissions by 26 to 28 per cent below 2005 levels by 2030.

In Western Australia the Department of Environmental Regulation is the lead agency responsible for the sustainability and the environment. A key role for the department is to enhance awareness, and provide advice and support sustainable practices in the community, industry and government sectors. Under the Minister for Environment, DER has responsibility for promoting

and supporting implementation of sustainability policy and activities in Western Australia. Importantly, the State Government administers the State’s land use planning system via the Western Australian Planning Commission.

At a local level, the Local Government Act 1995, requires the Shire to “use its best endeavours to meet the needs of current and future generations through an integration of environmental protection, social advancement and economic prosperity”.

This Strategy focuses on the environmental aspects of sustainability. In this context sustainable practices, policies, behaviours and development are those which have a positive impact on the natural environment. Clearly, sustainable development does not simply mean sustaining our current behaviors and way of living, which as evidenced by climate change, are having harmful and potentially catastrophic impacts. The extent of the Shire’s actions alone cannot bring an end to all of the environmental threats we face, which are beyond our capacity to control. However, local government plays an important role in undertaking on ground actions and providing strong leadership, which has the potential to change community attitudes and encourage positive behaviour change.

Transition to Sustainability Process

Stocker & Burke, CUSP

7. Implementation

Issues Paper

Strategy

9. Learn, share & respond

8. Monitoring (Indicators)

1. Local profile & context

2. Establish partnerships/

engage

3. Issues analysis (community &

specialist)

5. Policy (Principles)6. Action Plan

(Goals & Actions)

4. Vision

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Focus areas

Focus areas are those elements of our natural environment and everyday life, over which we can reasonably exert a positive influence to achieve sustainable outcomes.

As refined through the consultation process the primary environmental focus areas as agreed by the Shire and the community are:

FOCUS AREAS GOALS

Climate change A resilient Shire



Natural areas An ecologically healthy and self-sustaining Shire


The issues paper (see appendix 1) outlines the Shire’s current environmental focus areas and provides an appreciation of the threats, case study examples of the way on which the Shire is attempting to address those threats and the extent of expenditure currently directed to this task.

The purpose of this Strategy will be to provide a coordinated plan to guide Shire and community action in each of the focus areas. Based upon the outcomes of the initial consultation process, three key ‘action areas’ were identified as being those areas which the Shire should particularly focus its resources in order to maximise progress towards the goals for each focus area.

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Impacts of climate change (WA) Annual-average rainfall projections uncertain in northern Australia

Sea-level rise will increase frequency of extreme sea-level events

Frequency and intensity of extreme daily rainfall to increase for most regions

Ocean acidification will continue

Climate change

What is the issue? Global warming and sea level rise.

What causes it? Human-induced greenhouse gas emissions.

Related United Nations Sustainable Development Goal

Goal 13. Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.

How does it impact us? • Reduced rainfall with higher evaporation and reduced runoff into rivers/grounsdwater recharge.

• Warmer climate with more hot days.

• More frequent extreme weather events.

• More frequent and intense bushfires.

• Loss of biodiversity.

• Reduced agricultural productivity.

• Sea level rise with changes in storms and storm surges causing coastal flooding and erosion, infrastructure damage.

• Climate refugees – increased population growth and impacts upon human health.

What influence can we have?

• Climate change is a global process resulting from emission sources throughout the planet.

• Carbon emissions created in the Shire equate to 0.18% of those produced in the State, however it is expected that all levels of Government provide strong leadership and take responsible actions to reduce emissions and on ground action can make local ecosystems more resilient to impacts of climate change.

What are we currently doing about it?

Corporate sector• Reduce emissions generated from Shire buildings and vehicle fleet by 30% below

2006/07 levels by 2020.

• Reduce emissions generated from street lighting, or energy use in street lighting by 20% below 2006/07 per capita rates by 2020.

Community sector• Assist community to reduce emissions, or energy use by 20% below 2006/07

per capita rates by 2020.

• Encourage community to source 20% of its energy from renewable energy sources by 2020.

Our StrategyFocus area: Climate change

Goal A resilient Shire.

Target • Responding to climate change consistent with global commitments.

• Maintain current levels of human and environmental health.

Projects • Develop and implement a climate change adaptation plan.

• Provide resources to enable behaviour change amongst the community.

• Implement actions arising from the Coastal Hazard Risk Management and Planning (CHRMAP) 5 year works plan.

• Fund annual tree planting program to offset a proportion of corporate carbon emissions.

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Green energy

What is the issue? The majority of our current energy comes from sources, which create climate change causing carbon emissions.

What causes it? Power available via the South West interconnected grid, is generated by coal fired power stations.


Goal 13. Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.

How does it impact us? Without disconnecting from the grid, renewable energy is not available on a permanent basis.


Installation of solar photovoltaics provides for a portion of overall energy demand. Household scale batteries and micro-grid technologies are becoming more economically viable.

Current target Corporate sector• Reduce emissions generated from Shire buildings and vehicle fleet by 30% below

2006/07 levels by 2020.

• Reduce emissions generated from street lighting, or energy use in street lighting by 20% below 2006/07 per capita rates by 2020.

Community sector• Assist community to reduce emissions, or energy use by 20% below 2006/07 per

capita rates by 2020.

• Encourage community to source 20% of its energy from renewable energy sources by 2020.

Our StrategyFocus area: Green energy

Goal A low carbon Shire.

Target Zero net carbon emissions by 2050.

Projects • Implement the Local Energy Action Plan (LEAP).

• Support progress of community energy installation.

• Sponsor workshops and forums to share knowledge and increase access to renewable energy for households and businesses.

• Replace infrastructure in Shire buildings with energy efficient fittings (e.g LED lighting).

• Continue to install renewable energy systems across existing and planned Shire buildings.

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Water

What is the issue? Declining water availability / quality for water supply and the environment.

What causes it? • Decreasing rainfall / aquifer recharge (climate change).

• Loss of native vegetation.

• Urban and agricultural (nutrient and chemical) runoff.

• Increased groundwater and surface extraction.


Goal 6. Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.

How does it impact us? • Restrictions on household (garden) use.

• Increased risk to agricultural producers.

• Increased cost to taxpayers in providing alternative water sources.

• Environmental degradation.


• Our choices can directly impact on the amount of water we use in the home and throughout the community.

• Best practice catchment management can improve water quality.


• Wastewater recycling project and other water saving initiatives within Shire buildings.

• The Shire’s water use is monitored by an independent auditor.

Our StrategyFocus area: Water

Goal A water-sensitive Shire.

Target • Less than 100,000 litres pp/pa of reticulated drinking water.

• Water quality and quantity standards are mandated for all new greenfields. development sites requiring an Urban Water Management Plan.

• Increase percentage of irrigated parks serviced with non potable water.

Projects • Increase use of treated waste water for irrigation.

• Provide EMF funding for revegetation along waterways.

• Review and oversee implementation of Urban Water Management Plans.

• Increase use of waterwise landscaping and water sensitive design.

• Encourage use of supplementary rain water tanks in areas serviced by scheme water via the planning framework.

• Improve information and regulation relating to impact of urban development upon waterways (sediment and erosion control)

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Natural areas

What is the issue? A reduction in the quantity and quality of natural areas.

What causes it? • Fire and fire management.

• Climate change.

• Clearing of vegetation.

• Weeds.

• Pests/feral animals, diseases.


Goal 15. Project, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reserve land degradation and halt biodiversity loss.

How does it impact us? • Diminished environmental values and aesthetic/landscape quality.

• Reduced quality of open spaces and natural areas for recreation.

• Reduced enjoyment by local residents and visitors – the region’s biodiversity and landscapes underpin recreation, lifestyles, tourism and our local economy.


Management of Reserves is a core function of the Shire. Removal of vegetation can be influenced by sensible planning, another core function of the Shire. Many residents provide volunteer time to assist with on ground works. Local land care groups are knowledgeable and committed. There are currently 2188ha of natural areas under the Shire’s control.

What are we currently doing about?

• Preparation and implementation of reserve management plans.

• Fire management.

• Weed and feral animal control.

• Strategic land use planning which avoids or minimises impacts on significant vegetated areas.

• Environmental stewardship project.

• Phytophthora dieback project.

• Ringtail Possum project.

• Funding on ground works and education programs.

• Climate Change Response Plan.

Our StrategyFocus area: Natural areas

Goal An ecologically healthy and self-sustaining Shire.

Target • Increase the size of the natural areas in the Shire which have a high degree of protection.

• Increase weed control in priority areas.

• Increase no. of ha of land under active management.

Projects • Prepare environmental offsets policy.

• Provide EMF funding for on ground works.

• Undertake reserve management.

• Utilise planning process/controls to protect vegetation from the threat of clearing.

• Manage threatening processes within reserved land e.g feral animals/pests/diseases.

2020

Consumption

What is the issue? Waste and over-consumption.

What causes it? • Use of single-use plastics, foam, polystyrene etc. that are not biodegradable or take years to break up.

• Purchasing habits.

• Capacity to recycle.

• Waste management practices.

• Lifestyle habits.


Goal 12. Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns.

How does it impact us? Contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. The Shire’s landfill facilities create four times as many emissions as those attributable to corporate energy use.

• Landfill produces leachate which can pollute groundwater.

• Plastic and other litter on beaches and foreshores degrades environment and impacts wildlife.


• Influence on Shire’s purchasing and waste management practices.

• The potential for all residents/businesses to change their behaviours is high however, the Shire’s capacity to influence behaviours is moderate.


• Promoting behaviour change.

• Recycling – 19% of household waste deposited at the Davis Road facility is recycled.

Our StrategyFocus area: Consumption

Goal A responsible Shire.

Target • 70% of waste received at disposal sites is diverted from landfill.

• Increase the proportion of resources recovered from unavoidable waste.

• 100% of organic material received at disposal sites is composted for reuse.

Projects • Prepare and implement corporate waste reduction strategy.

• Work with local interest groups to progress plastic bag ban through WALGA.

• Provide information and resources to the community about the benefits of reducing waste.

• Introduce recycling facilities into public places.

• Prepare waste wise events guidelines.

• Increase presence of responsible waste message at events in collaboration with community groups.

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Avoidance

Reuse

Recycling

Recover of energy

Treatment

Containment

Disposal

Most preferable

Least preferable

Waste Management Measures

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An environment first policy explains to the community how the Shire interpret the three pillars of sustainability. An environment first policy reinforces the natural environment as the basis for community life and economic development.

Action areas

Action Areas are those mechanisms available to the Shire to best influence positive and sustainable environmental outcomes. This Strategy advocates for three key action areas being governance, funding and community empowerment. The action areas have been developed having regard for the statutory responsibilities of the Shire, its available resources and, as has emerged via the consultation process, the expectations of the community.

ACTION AREA PATHWAYS PROJECTS

Governance

The corporate activities of the Shire

• Environment First Policy

• Leading from the front

• Specific and Measurable KPIs

• Review Shire sustainability policy.

• Prepare environmental offsets policy.

• Review Coporate KPIs.

• Prepare State of the Environment Report (every 4 years).

• Prepare extractive industry policy to direct operations to environmentally acceptable locations.

• Prepare and implement Shire waste reduction strategy.

Funding

One of the ways the Shire can collaborate with others

• Increased funding

• Strategic funding decisions

• A four year plan

• Set aside 3% of yearly budget for environmentally sustainable projects (Environmental Sustainability Fund – ESF).

• Include oversight of ESF as one of the core functions of the SAC and modify terms of reference accordingly.

• Prepare 4 year forward works plan for EMF.

Community empowerment

Motivating and empowering the community

• Sharing knowledge

• Community partnerships

• Building capacity

• Build stronger relationships with existing community groups.

• Increase the number of projects considered and reviewed by the SAC.

• Undertake integrated planning with key stakeholder groups via the EMF and four year works plan.

• Provide opportunities for joint staff/community training in relation to environment and sustainability skills e.g landcare, home composting, vegetable growing.

• Harness grant opportunities.

• Coordinate across groups to direct efforts towards mutually agreed projects and locations.

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Action area: Governance

Pathway: Environment-first policy.An environment first policy explains to the community how the Shire interpret the three pillars of sustainability. An environment first policy reinforces the natural environment as the basis for community life and economic development. Rather than sustainability being a balance between the three pillars it recognises that without a healthy and sustainable environment, continuous economic prosperity and community well being is impossible. Sometimes referred to as reducing our ecological footprint or ‘one planet living’, an environment first policy encourages us to live within our means.

Project: Review Shire Sustainability Policy

Pathway: Strong leadership Efforts to encourage community behaviours which support environmental sustainability are greatly diminished when the Shire are perceived to be behaving ‘unsustainably’. Ethical and sustainable consumption, waste management and a presumption against the clearing of native vegetation are examples of ways in which the Shire can demonstrate its credentials as a responsible corporate citizen and position itself as an organisation of respected leaders committed to our environment.

Project: Develop environmental offsets policy

Pathway: Specific and measurable KPIsThe Shire is bound to act in accordance with a Corporate Planning Framework which is informed by a series of documents including the Corporate Plan. This document includes Key Performance Indicators against which actions are assessed. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are a set of quantifiable measures that the Shire uses to gauge or compare performance in terms of meeting its strategic and operational goals. Good KPIs are said to be SMART that is Specific, Measurable, Achieveable,

Relevant and Timely. The Shire’s KPIs need improvement to provide a clear picture of the extent to which programs and projects are achieving identified goals.

Project: Review all corporate KPIs relating to the environment and sustainability so that they are SMART and align with the goals for each focus area outlined in this Strategy

Clear and transparent reporting

The Local Government Act 1995 requires that the Shire prepare and publish an annual report each year. This provides an ideal opportunity for the Shire to review its performance against the identified KPIs in a way that is readily accessible to the public. Further, the Shire should continue to produce a State of the Environment Report every four years to comprehensively evaluate the extent to which environmental metrics are improving. The results will be vital in making any necessary changes to policy settings and resource allocation through the Environmental Management Fund to address emerging issues.

Project: Produce State of the Environment Report in 2022 (end of first four year forward works plan).

Specific A clear statement of intent and unambiguous

Measurable Capable of being collected regularly and consistently?

Achievable Can the target be reached?

Relevant Is it aligned to achieving goals and will it inform if you have achieved the goals?

Timely Can the data be collected in a timely manner?

Environment

Society

Economy

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Action area: Funding

Pathway: Increased funding In the 2016-17 financial year approximately $19 million of rate revenue was collected by the Shire. The Environmental Management Fund, at $100,000 represents 0.5% of total revenue. Council have indicated that the fund should be increased over time to 1% of rate revenue.

In reality, a much larger amount of money is spent each year by the Shire on positive environmental initiatives. When broader ‘sustainability’ projects are included, the Shire spent, 2.4% (or approximately $468,000) of its rate revenue in the 2016-17 financial year on environmental and sustainability based projects.

As demonstrated in 2016-17, 2.4% of rate revenue is a realistic contribution towards environmental projects from a financial perspective. Coupled with Council’s intention to grow the EMF to 1% of rate revenue over time, this rises to a commitment of 3% of rate revenue. Based on an estimated rate contribution of $21 million in 18-19 this equates to $630,000.

Committing a defined percentage of rate revenue from future budgets towards environmental sustainability means that as rate revenue rises over time, so to will the amount available for that purpose. In order to maintain this level of funding into the future, It is recommended that the EMF form part of a broader Environmental and Sustainability Fund, and that funding be allocated at a rate of 3% of projected rate revenue each financial year.

Project: Ensure annual budgets (from 18-19 onwards) include an allocation of 3.0% of rate revenue towards environmental and sustainability projects (otherwise referred to as the Environmental and Sustainability Fund (ESF)

Pathway: Strategic funding decisionsIt is important that any funding directed towards environmental projects is done so in a strategic fashion after carefully evaluating the potential outcomes. The Sustainability Advisory Committee (SAC) are ideally placed given the skills and qualifications of their membership, to be able to consider and prioritise funding applications on behalf of Council, with a final recommendation thereafter being provided to Council for endorsement. Meeting only four times per year, SAC’s yearly programme should be primarily focussed on overseeing the ESF by:

• Inviting prospective grant applicants to present and discuss the benefits of their projects;

• Considering all applications/projects and prioritising and allocating funds accordingly; and

• Conducting post project interviews to allow evaluation of the success or otherwise of funded projects.

Being strategic with regards to funding allocation recognises that there are a number of stakeholders involved in environmental works and, it is likely that in many cases a collaborative approach (for example focused on one geographical area) would greatly multiply the likelihood of success.

Project: Include oversight of ESF as one of the core functions of the SAC and modify terms of reference accordingly.

Pathway: A four-year planIt is recommended that a four year forward works plan be prepared to inform expenditure of the EMF. This will enable the Shire to be strategic about identifying and completing projects. It will also allow funding to be allocated over several years therefore providing certainty to project partners.

A four year funding plan acknowledges that funding a project for one year may not achieve a sustainable outcome. An example of this is weed management where intervention over several years may be required to achieve sustained outcomes.

Project: Prepare a four year forward works plan for the EMF in close consultation with project partners.

Components of the Environmental and Sustainability Fund

EMF

MOU’s

Sustainability Education

Waste

Other

Reserve Management

LEAP

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Action Area: Community Empowerment

Pathway: Sharing knowledgeA theme which emerged through the consultation process was the need for the Shire to provide more information to the community as to how to ‘make a difference’ with regards to the environment. Equally, it was also recognised that there exists a wealth of knowledge amongst some community members which could be better harnessed by the Shire to inform decision making.

In responding to the communities desire for more information regarding the environment and sustainable living, the Shire should partner with local organisations to deliver behaviour change programs to the wider community. This creates an environment of the community teaching itself, albeit supported by the Shire.

The level of interest and indeed expertise in the environment and sustainability field which exists amongst the Augusta Margaret River community is an asset to the Shire. In many cases community members and groups have offered to assist the Shire with relevant projects on a volunteer basis. The utilisation of the SAC should be increased as a means of vetting projects and connecting with individuals who may be able to add value to the Shire’s environmental and sustainability endeavours.

Project: Increase the number of projects considered and reviewed by the SAC.

Pathway: Community partnershipsStrong relationships between the Shire and Curtin University (CUSP) and Nature Conservation Margaret River Region via MOU’s are some existing examples

of strong Shire/community partnerships. Better engagement needs to occur with other established community groups particularly where projects overlap across areas of mutual interest.

Project: Undertake integrated planning with key stakeholder groups via the EMF and four year works plan.

Pathway: Capacity buildingCapacity building is the development of key skills abilities and competencies needed for individuals or groups to effectively perform a task. As it relates to the sustainability of our environment, capacity building relates both to Shire staff and the broader community.

Within the organisation, training and behaviour change is required in order to achieve corporate sustainability targets. Further, as the largest employer in the locality, capacity building within the Shire provides the opportunity to effect behaviour across a large group within the community (staff). An example of this is a program to reduce corporate food and other waste by putting in place separate waste bins and diverting organic waste away from landfill to ‘worm tunnels’.

Outside of the organisation the Shire can better harness the collective energy and enthusiasm of the community by enhancing skill levels which will enable individuals and groups to participate in volunteer works or undertake positive environmental actions and habits in their own homes.

Project: Provide opportunities for joint staff/community training in relation to environment and sustainability skills e.g landcare, home composting, vegetable growing.

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Our Strategy

The Vision – Our interaction with the Shire of Augusta Margaret River’s natural environment is harmonious, and results in outcomes which are beneficial for both the environment and the community. We are a sustainable Shire which sustains and is sustained by our natural environment.

Corporate Collaborative Community

Action Areas Governance Funding Community empowerment

Pathways • Environment first

• Strong leadership

• Specific and measurable KPIs

• Increased funding

• Strategic funding decisions

• A four-year plan

• Sharing knowledge

• Community partnerships

• Building capacity

Projects • Review Shire sustainability policy.

• Prepare extractive industry policy to direct operations to environmentally acceptable locations.

• Prepare State of the Environment Report (every four years).

• Prepare and implement Shire waste-reduction strategy.

• Set 3% of yearly budget for environmentally sustainable projects (Environmental Sustainability Fund – ESF).

• Include oversight of ESF as one of the core functions of the SAC and modify terms of reference accordingly.

• Prepare four-year forward works plan for EMF.

• Build stronger relationships with existing community groups.

• Increase the number of projects considered and reviewed by the SAC.

• Undertake integrated planning with key stakeholder groups via the EMF and four year works plan.

• Provide opportunities for joint staff/community training in relation to environment and sustainability skills e.g landcare, home composting, vegetable growing.

• Harness grant opportunities.

• Coordinate across groups to direct efforts towards mutually agreed projects and locations.

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Focus Areas Projects Targets

Corporate Collaborative Community

Climate changeA resilient Shire

• Develop a climate change adaptation plan.

• Implement actions arising from the Coastal Hazard Risk Management And Planning (CHRMAP) five- year works plan.

• Fund annual tree planting program to offset a proportion of corporate carbon emissions.

• Provide resources to enable behaviour change amongst the community.

• Responding to climate change consistent with global commitments.

• Maintain current levels of human and environmental health.


• Implement the Local Energy Action Plan (LEAP).

• Replace infrastructure in Shire buildings with energy efficient fittings (e.g LED lighting).

• Continue to install renewable energy systems across existing and planned Shire buildings.

• Support progress of community energy installation.

• Sponsor workshops and forums to share knowledge and increase access to renewable energy for households and businesses.

• Zero net carbon emissions by 2050.


• Increase use of treated waste water for irrigation.

• Review and oversee implementation of Urban Water Management Plans.

• Increase use of waterwise landscaping and water sensitive design.

• Provide EMF funding for revegetation along waterways.

• Encourage use of supplementary rain water tanks in areas serviced by scheme water via the planning framework.

• Less than 100,000 litres pp/pa of reticulated drinking water.

Natural areas An ecologically healthy and self-sustaining Shire.

• Prepare environmental offsets policy.

• Undertake reserve management.

• Utilise planning process/controls to protect vegetation from the threat of clearing.

• Provide EMF funding for landscape scale tree planting.

• Manage threatening processes within reserved land e.g feral animals/pests/diseases.

• Increase the size of the natural areas in the Shire which have a high degree of protection.

• Increase in amount of weed burdened land reduced to sustainable levels.

• Increase in weed control in priority areas.

• Increased amounts of land under active management.

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• Prepare and implement corporate waste reduction strategy.

• Prepare waste wise events guidelines.

• Work with local interest groups to progress plastic bag ban through WALGA.

• Increase presence of responsible waste message at events in collaboration with community groups. Introduce recycling facilities into public places.

• Provide information and resources to the community about the benefits of reducing waste.

• 70% of waste received at disposal sites is diverted from landfill.

• Increase the proportion of resources recovered from unavoidable waste.

• 100% of organic material received at disposal sites is composted for reuse.

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PO Box 61, Margaret River Western Australia 6285

T (08) 9780 5255 | F (08) 9757 2512

[email protected] amrshire.wa.gov.au


11.2 Sustainable Development 11.2.2 SHOP, SHOWROOM AND CAFÉ AT 90 (LOT6) BUSSELL

HIGHWAY, COWARAMUP

Attachment 1 – Plans of Proposal Attachment 2 – Schedule of Submissions

SCHEDULE OF SUBMISSIONS -

SUBMISSION NO.

SUBMITTER (Name & Address)

SUMMARY OF COMMENTS OFFICER COMMENT RECOMMENDATION

1 Cowaramup District

Social Club Notified

No concerns raised with the on street car parking along Memorial Drive.

Noted

No changes to the proposal are necessary.

2 Anglican Parish of Augusta Margaret River

Support

- Please note the difficulties to exit onto Bussell Highway now.

- This development will increase traffic and consideration should be given to redesigning the exit to alleviate it becoming dangerous.

Noted.

A Traffic Impact Assessment (TIA) was completed and concluded that the provision of 7 queuing bays to serve the drive through coffee outlet was ‘ample stacking capacity for the proposed development’. The exit onto Bussell Highway has been supported by Main Roads subject to appropriate design and construction being approved.


3 Details Confidential Objection - Method sewage disposal. - Number of car parking bays does not

comply with the LSP1 parking standards.

- Asbestos on site.

Site will be connected to reticulated sewerage located to the east of Bussell Highway.

Development complies with the LPS1 car parking calculations and an additional two (2) on-street car parking bays are proposed on Memorial Drive. The landowner will be required to submit a demolition licence and appoint a contractor who is registered to dispose of asbestos in accordance with the Health (asbestos) regulation 1992 amongst other legislation.



SUBMISSION NO.



- Fuel tanks on the site.

- Access onto Bussell Highway.

The Department of Mines, Industry Regulation in Safety (DMIRS) have confirmed they have no record of a dangerous goods licence for a fuel tank on this site. Further site investigations have been undertaken by a structural engineer, which has included on site excavation. It is concluded that there is no evidence of underground fuel tanks. Department of Environment and Regulation (DER) have advised they do not recommend a planning condition is recommend given there is no evidence of a fuel tank existing on the site. The access and egress have been supported through consultation with Main Roads. Signage and design will restrict access to the site only from Memorial Drive and exit onto Bussell Highway.

4 Resident of Cowaramup Objection - Traffic congestion and hazard for

residents using Memorial Drive and Parkwater.

- Over supply of drive through coffee

business. - No consideration of increased

pedestrian through Pioneer Park.

A Traffic Impact Assessment (TIA) was completed that concluded that 7 queuing bays was ‘ample capacity for the development’.

The supply of drive through coffee businesses is no a planning consideration and does not form part of the planning assessment. A continuous footpath from the development will link to the existing footpath networks along Memorial



SUBMISSION NO.



Drive which link through to Pioneer Park. A condition of the approval is recommended regarding development of the footpath at the proponent’s expense.

5 Resident of Cowaramup Objection - Parking constraints on the site, and

bays 10 and 11 being provided outside of the site.

- Sewage. - Underground fuel tanks.

Development complies with the LPS1 car parking calculations and a further two (2) on-street car parking bays are proposed along Memorial Drive (car parking is discussed further below in this report).

Site will be connected to reticulated sewerage located to the east of Bussell Highway.

The Department of Mines, Industry Regulation in Safety (DMIRS) have confirmed they have no records of a dangerous goods licence for a fuel tank on this site. Further site investigations have been undertaken by a structural engineer, which has included onsite excavation. It is concluded that there is no evidence of underground fuel tanks. Department of Environment and Regulation (DER) have advised they do not recommend a planning condition is recommend given there is no evidence of a fuel tank on the site.



11.2 Sustainable Development 11.2.3 FLINDERS BAY PROTECTION AND MANAGEMENT

PLAN, AUGUSTA

Attachment 1 – Flinders Bay Protection and Management Plan Attachment 2 – Friends of Flinders Bay Inc. Submission on Flinders Bay Protection and Management Plan

amrshire.wa.gov.au

Protection and Management Plan for Flinders Bay

Shire of Augusta Margaret River - September 2017

IntroductionFlinders Bay is a quiet coastal settlement which offers popular recreation opportunities used by locals and visitors alike. Enjoyed for its heritage values, its protected bay and informal coastal character, there is a need for works undertaken in the public realm to be broadly supported by the community and be consistent with the current aesthetic.

A Draft Masterplan for the Flinders Bay area was advertised for public comment from March to April 2017. Overwhelmingly, public input was centered around the need to maintain the ‘low key’ nature of the foreshore with only minimal works seen as being required in order to cater for its use. Considerable feedback was also received that supported a greater emphasis on maintenance within the plan. The attached Protection and Management Plan has been prepared in consultation with the Friends of Flinders Bay Association (FFBA) and provides for the coordinated development and maintenance of Shire reserves of the main foreshore, Redman Brook, Granny’s Pool and Storm Bay.

Flinders Bay Preservation and Management Plan

Works:

1. Assess need for stabilisation works along foreshore including detailed studies and monitoring.

2. Replace existing playground with nautical/nature play facility.

3. Create new beach access points including handrails.

4. Investigate boat ramp removal following outcomes of studies and monitoring discussed at point 1 above.

5. Pipe and fill Redman Brook drain.

6. Trail Head location as identified in Busselton to Flinders Bay Rail Trail (Wadandi Track) Plan.

7. Addition of barbeque facilities and seating to the southern end of the foreshore.

8. Wadandi Trail Alignment through foreshore as identified in Busselton to Flinders Bay Rail Trail (Wadandi Track) Plan.

1. Undertake staged weed control and landscaping within Redman Brook using native species which ‘match’ with the existing aesthetic.

2. Investigate replacement/maintenance of stairway located between Wishart Road and Peppermint Drive.

Actions for Granny’s Pool (Not Pictured)1. Improve universal access when existing stairway reaches end of usable life.

2. Undertake weed control in area around Granny’s Pool.

Actions for Storm Bay (Not Pictured)1. Undertake weed control in area around Storm Bay.

Works and Maintenance Actions for Main Foreshore (Pictured Above)9. Prepare signage strategy to rationalise/coordinate

signage placement within the foreshore (not pictured)

Maintenance:10. Rectify point of intersection between path and

bridge.

11. Repair potholes on loop road.

12. Reinstate grass in areas where this has been eroded or removed.

13. Remove potential pedestrian and vehicle hazards around top of boat ramp in consultation with FFBA.

14. Repair/replace fencing and investigate interim treatment of erosion.

15. Remove bollards and replace with low profile vehicle barriers (not pictured)

Actions for Redman Brook (Pictured Above)

1

3

11

7

6

1

1

2

8

2

4

5

10

12

13

14

Works and Maintenance Actions for Main Foreshore

Works Priority FundingConduct stabilisation works along foreshore following detailed studies and monitoring. High Subject to monitoring under Coastal Hazard Risk Management and Adaptation Plan.

Could be funded prior through grants. Replace existing playground with nautical/nature play facility. High Budgeted, due to be completed 17/18.Create new beach access points including handrails. Medium Not BudgetedInvestigate boat ramp removal following outcomes of studies and monitoring. Medium Not BudgetedPipe and fill Redman Brook drain. Low Not BudgetedTrail Head location as identified in Busselton to Flinders Bay Rail Trail (Wadandi Track) Plan. Low Annual allocation for Wadandi Track in Long Term Financial Plan until 25/26. Grant de-

pendant.Addition of barbeque facilities and seating to the southern end of the foreshore. Low Not BudgetedWadandi Trail Alignment through foreshore as identified in Busselton to Flinders Bay Rail Trail (Wadandi Track) Plan.

Low Annual allocation for Wadandi Track in Long Term Financial Plan until 25/26. Grant de-pendant.

Prepare signage strategy to rationalise/coordinate signage placement within the foreshore (not pictured) Medium No additional costs – Capable of being prepared by Staff in house.MaintenanceRectify point of intersection between path and bridge. Medium Annual allocation for Public Open Space in Long Term Financial Plan subject to

prioritisation.Repair of potholes on loop road. Medium Annual allocation for Road Resurfacing in Long Term Financial Plan subject to

prioritisation.Reinstate grass in areas where this has been eroded or removed. High Annual allocation for Public Open Space in Long Term Financial Plan subject to

prioritisation.Remove potential pedestrian and vehicle hazards around top of boat ramp in consultation with Friends of Flinders Bay Association.

Medium Annual allocation for Public Open Space in Long Term Financial Plan subject to prioritisation.

Repair/replace fencing and investigate interim treatment of erosion. High Annual allocation for Public Open Space in Long Term Financial Plan subject to prioritisation.

Remove bollards and replace with low profile vehicle barriers (not pictured). Low Annual allocation for Public Open Space in Long Term Financial Plan subject to prioritisation.

Works Priority FundingUndertake staged weed control and landscaping within Redman Brook using native species which ‘match’ with the existing aesthetic.

High Annual allocation for Public Open Space in Long Term Financial Plan subject to prioritisation.

Investigate replacement/maintenance of stairway located between Wishart Road and Peppermint Drive. Medium Not BudgetedWorks and Maintenance for Granny’s PoolImprove universal access when existing stairway reaches end of usable life. Medium Annual allocation for Public Open Space in Long Term Financial Plan subject to

prioritisation.Undertake weed control in area around Granny’s Pool. Low Annual allocation for Public Open Space in Long Term Financial Plan subject to

prioritisation.Works and Maintenance for Storm BayUndertake weed control in area around Storm Bay. Low Annual allocation for Public Open Space in Long Term Financial Plan subject to

prioritisation.

Works and Maintenance Actions for Redman Brook, Granny’s Pool and Storm Bay

Friends of Flinders Bay Inc. Marilyn Wholagan, Secretary, Friends of Flinders Bay Inc, c/- 14 Peppermint Drive, Flinders Bay, Augusta.W.A. 6290

Mr Gary Evershed Chief Executive Officer Shire of Augusta Margaret River PO Box 61 Margaret River WA 6285 Attention Matt Cuthbert

Dear Sir,

Flinders Bay Protection and Maintenance Plan - Submission

We appreciate the invitation from Matt Cuthbert dated 18/9/2017 inviting our Association to provide a coordinated response to the modified plan for Flinders Bay. This plan was circulated to our members inviting input and a meeting was held on the foreshore on Mon 25/9/2017 in very inclement weather. The following feedback and comment is provided and we look forward to you taking them into account before providing your final report to Council.

1. once again the FOFB formally requests the Council to recognise our Group as the principal body for consultation on all matters pertaining to the public land in the Old Flinders Bay settlement. This matter has been included in two previous requests but has never been put to Council for consideration. We believe we have demonstrated our intention to work closely with the Shire for better outcomes in Flinders Bay and have established a formally incorporated body that is able to respond quickly to any requests for input. The Association strongly believes that there should be an overarching statement of intent included in the Plan where the Shire recognises the FOFB and will consult on all development or improvement works before implementation. We are sure this will lead to better community outcomes.

2. Overall the majority of the modified plan is supported, provided the Shire include the intention of consulting with the Association on the many matters included in our last submission eg Foreshore stabilisation works, removal of boat ramp, signage strategy, replanting of creek, etc.

3. The Association provides the following specific feedback/comment on the plan’s recommended action: Main Foreshore Recommended Actions:

1. Support in consultation with FOFB 2. Support in consultation with FOFB 3. Support in principle but have concerns that the most northern access point may

be more susceptible to erosion based on past experience 4. Support in consultation with FOFB (boat ramp only - jetty to remain). Request

Shire to expedite construction of handrail before this summer season as the Association understands that the money is already in current Budget.

1

5. Support piping and filing drain between Davies Road and area past small bridge (near toilet block)

6. Support 7. Support in consultation with FOFB 8. Support provided this does not include construction of a path 9. Support in consultation with FOFB 10. -15 Maintenance Items Support

b. Redman Brook Actions Any weed control will need to be done for the entire length of the pest weed infested areas in Redman Brook, so that reinfestation does not re-occur and ongoing maintenance is reduced. The Association reinforced it’s previously adopted position as it is not confident that the Plan’s recommended action reflects the intent of the its earlier submission which stated : Provided the works are done in close consultation with the FOFB the following is supported: a. Staged weed control (in particular remove Arum lilies, Bullrushes etc) b. Planting predominantly native species along and up to the winter waterline with peppermints and selected introduced species which reflect the Old Flinders Bay settlement being planted along the banks above the winter waterline eg Hydrangeas. Any planting to be done in close consultation with the FOFB and the intent is to re-establish the previous picturesque creek reserve.

2. Support replacement of steps in the middle of the reserve as a matter of urgency c. Granny’s Pool Actions

1. Support in consultation with FOFB and the Shire be advised that this work is deemed to be of high priority due to the existing safety hazards created by the poor public access to Granny’s Pool.

2. Support d. Storm Bay Actions

1. Support At its meeting the Association also asked me to write to and seek an outline of:

● the proposed implementation schedule for the proposed works/actions once the plan is adopted by Council and

● general pothole patching of Peppermint Drive and other streets in the settlement. We appreciate the opportunity to comment and trust that our considered input is adopted. Once again we confirm our willingness to work with the Shire on this matter and look forward to receiving a response to our submission.

Yours truly,

Marilyn Wholagan Secretary

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11.2 Sustainable Development 11.2.4 SCHEME AMENDMENT NO.58 EXMOOR DRIVE /

BOODJIDUP DRIVE, FOR CONSENT TO ADVERTISE

Attachment 1 – Scheme Amendment Map Attachment 2 – Draft Structure Plan

11.2 sustainable development · 2017-11-16 · 11.2 sustainable development . 11.2.1 environmental...

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