annual report 2009-10 - the western coastal board (wcb)western coastal board annual report 2009/2010...

Annual Report 2009-10

Western Coastal Board Annual Report 2009/2010 Page 2

Our Role The Western Coastal Board’s role is defined through the Coastal Management Act, 1995. The Board champions the ecologically sustainable development of South West Victoria’s coastal and marine areas. It performs this function through being a: • Strategic Planner • Educator and Advocate • Partner and Facilitator • Coastal Adviser and Expert Our Vision The vision for our coast is ….

A biologically and culturally rich, diverse coastal, estuarine and marine environment that is managed for its protection, sustainable use and enjoyment today and for future generations

(Victorian Coastal Strategy 2008) The Region Victoria’s western coastal region covers some 476km of open coastline and extends from near Breamlea in the east to the South Australian border. It includes the six municipalities of Surf Coast Shire, Colac Otway Shire, Corangamite Shire, Moyne Shire, Warrnambool City and the Glenelg Shire. It also includes the entire Glenelg Hopkins catchment region and the majority of the Corangamite catchment region.

Cover: Urquhart’s Bluff (Photo: Margot Harrison)


Acting Chair’s Foreword Maintaining strong advocacy for our coast and the Victorian Coastal Strategy has been an important role this year. We have achieved this through communication with regional stakeholders, promotion and exchange of information and science at forums and workshops, providing input to regional and state plans and policies and working in partnership with regional stakeholders to hold a Western Coastal and Marine Forum in July 2010. A review of our stated priorities from 2008-09 notes the completion of the initial stage of the Coastal Priorities Project. Further refinement of the process and implementation of the next annual priority- setting cycle did not occur as a number of regional plans were being developed. The Project contributed to these plans, including Geelong region (G21) and the Great South Coast Regional Strategic Plan. Extensive consultation with the community and across a broad range of interest groups was undertaken to develop the Draft Western Victoria Boating Coastal Action Plan. It delivers a strategic framework to guide the provision of improved and more sustainable boating facilities across the region. A Reference Group and Steering Committee was established to provide representation and input into the key matters to be addressed by the Plan, and the Board is grateful for the efforts of those who contributed to the document. Ministerial endorsement of the Plan is expected in Spring 2010. The gathering of information and consultation to inform the statutory reviews of our ten Coastal Action Plans has been completed, with additional community, agency and local government consultation occurring in May 2010. With the changing face of coastal and catchment management as a result of the Land and Biodiversity White Paper, the establishment of a Ministerial Coastal Climate Change Advisory Committee and a number of strategic plans, the role played by Coastal Action Plans may provide a critical tool in developing and implementing effective approaches to integrated coastal zone management in the future. Through a program of state-wide institutional change, the Western Coastal Board will merge with the Glenelg Hopkins and Corangamite Catchment Management Authorities to form the Western Catchments and Coastal Authority by July 2011. It creates a new opportunity in the way we manage our coasts and catchments to deliver improved marine, coastal and catchment outcomes in an integrated way. However, the merger is not without its challenges, with retention, transfer and strengthening of our current roles and responsibilities under the Coastal Management Act 1995 and the Victorian Coastal Strategy 2008 seen as critical as we move forward into the new arrangements. On behalf of the Board I would like to thank the appointed Chairman Lynette Skilbeck, who was forced to take extended leave in November 2009 and then resign in June 2010 due to illness. Lynette’s leadership and passion for the coast were sadly missed by the Board. We wish her well in her recovery and look forward to her future contribution to the region. My thanks go to Board Members and our Management Team for their contributions of expertise, knowledge and support this year. The year ahead provides opportunities to strengthen links and alignment across a complexity of multi- sector policies and plans at regional and State level. We will expect to initiate implementation of the Boating Coastal Action Plan, complete the statutory review of Coastal Action Plans in the region, support and facilitate the implementation of the Victorian Coastal Strategy and continue our role of coastal advocacy to set foundations for the future.

Sue Mudford Acting Chair


Executive Summary Board achievements 2009-10 The Board endorsed a final draft Boating Coastal Action Plan to provide a strategic

framework for the provision of safe and sustainable boating facilities for the region. Extensive consultation occurred with key lead agents and community members across the region

on the implications of the Draft Coastal Action Plan (CAP) Review Report recommendations. The Board is pleased that strong regional support exists for a new generation of coastal strategic plans.

The Coastal Priorities: NRM and Coastal Planning project was completed and the final report distributed to stakeholders.

Engagement and partnerships with both local government and CMAs continues to increase in importance and gain momentum.

A number of new Board members commenced in 2009, and have brought new skills and expertise to the Board table.

The new Board’s Business Plan 2009-12 was completed. Key Coastal Issues from 2009-10 Through the implementation of the Land and Biodiversity White Paper, the Board will merge with

the Corangamite and Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authorities to form the Western Catchments and Coastal Authority by 30 June 2011. There is considerable work to be done to integrate catchment and coastal planning approaches for the implementation of the VCS.

Coastal planning and management continues to evolve in the region, with a range of strategic initiatives and emerging issues being progressed. Key issues include: • Marine power and the Government’s release of a Marine Energy in Victoria Discussion

Paper. • Continuing increases in development and visitation pressure on the coast. • Increasing interest in and progress towards climate change impact understanding and

responses at state, regional and local level. • The development of several high level regional strategic plans, including for the G21 and

Great South Coast regions, and federal implementation funding. • A renewed effort by land managers to develop Coastal Management Plans for public land

areas and the integration of these plans with adjacent settlement planning mechanisms. Progress on Priorities for 2009-10 The previous Board articulated a number of priorities for 2009-10 for the incoming Board:

Completion of the Coastal Priorities project, further refinement of the process and implementation of the next annual priority-setting cycle. Status: postponed by the incoming Board due to potential overlap with other processes.

Completion of the Boating CAP, including undertaking extensive consultation to finalise it for submission to the Victorian Coastal Council, Ministerial endorsement and commencement of an Implementation process. Status: Final draft endorsed and provided to Victorian Coastal Council.

Completion of statutory reviews of Coastal Action Plans and investigating the feasibility of second generation CAPs in partnership with other Regional Coastal Boards and the VCC. Status: consultation on draft Report recommendations complete and final report pending.

Promoting and facilitating the regional delivery of the VCS 2008 Implementation Plan. Status: participation in Implementation Committee and range of initiatives.

Hosting the 2010 Western Coastal Forum. Status: planning completed and event held in July 2010.


The new Board identified a range of issues in its 2009-12 Business Plan. These issues are closely aligned with the Board’s statutory role under the Coastal Management Act 1995 and the objectives of the Victorian Coastal Strategy, which form the basis of the Board’s Annual Report to the Victorian Coastal Council. They include the following Priority Areas:

Promote awareness of climate change science and impacts. Develop and contribute to strategic coastal planning and policy initiatives to support the

implementation of the VCS and ICZM. Raise the profile of marine research, planning and management issues and address key

marine risks. Strengthen stakeholder engagement in coastal planning and management. Active participation in the implementation of the Land and Biodiversity White Paper. Board Governance and Operations.

Point Roadknight, Anglesea (Photo: Margot Harrison)


1. Strategic Coastal Planning Western Victoria Boating Coastal Action Plan The Board continued to progress the development of the Boating CAP during the year. Extensive consultation was undertaken with the community and across a broad range of interest groups to develop the Draft Boating CAP. A Stakeholder Reference Group and Steering Committee provided representation and input into the key matters to be addressed by the Plan. A Draft Boating CAP was placed on public exhibition for six (6) weeks from late August to early October 2009 and consultation resulted in the engagement of a range of stakeholders: Public information sessions in each municipality attracted 45 participants 17 written submissions were received Briefings were provided to all municipal councils within the region The Board endorsed the final draft Boating CAP in December 2009 and submitted the document to the Victorian Coastal Council for approval in January 2010. A number of editorial changes to the document were suggested by the VCC, and an editorial review was underway as at 30 June 2010. Council and Ministerial endorsement of the Plan is anticipated prior to the end of 2010. The Boating CAP project received $20,000 in external revenue for the year as part of total project contributions from Marine Safety Victoria’s Boating Safety and Facilities Program. Coastal Action Plan Reviews The statutory five year review of all CAPs was continued in 2009/10. The process included the development of a preliminary draft review and consultation with lead agents for CAP actions and community on the recommendations. Further consultation was undertaken with key lead agents and community members across the region in May 2010 to discuss the draft CAP Review Report recommendations and their implications. A total of 19 meetings were conducted with local councils, Catchment Management Authorities and other stakeholders. Comments and feedback were being consolidated and integrated into the draft review as at 30 June 2010. Preliminary findings from the Review indicate that CAPs provide the most suitable planning tool for delivering Integrated Coastal Zone Management. The CAP Review Report is anticipated to be a key input to the implementation of the Land and Biodiversity White Paper, and will assist in the consideration of the future role of CAPs, following references to CAPs through the Marine Energy in Victoria Discussion Paper and Main Report of the Coastal Climate Change Advisory Committee. It is expected that the Review Report will be presented to the Board before the end of 2010. The CAP Review project did not receive any external funding.


2. Implementation of the VCS, CAPs and Guidelines Victorian Coastal Strategy 2008 Implementation Plan The Board participated in the development of the VCS Implementation Plan. Implementation of Regional and Local Coastal Action Plans (CAPs) Ten Coastal Action Plans (CAPs) exist in the Western Coastal Region and varying degrees of progress were made in their implementation. These include: Two Regional CAPs for South West and Central West Victoria which progress integrated coastal

zone management at a sub-regional scale Two Estuary CAPs which provide the framework and sub-regional guidance for the development

and implementation of Estuary Management Plans Six local CAPs applying to discrete geographical areas in the region, including the Glenelg Shire,

Moyne Shire, Warrnambool City, Skenes Creek to Marengo, Lorne and Anglesea CAPs. These translate the VCS 1997 and VCS 2002 to the local level and are implemented by land managers, local government and state agencies.

The status of CAPs and other coastal planning mechanisms is shown in Table 1 below. Table 1: Status of CAPs 2008-09 CAP Title (year) Status Supported by South West Victoria Regional CAP 2002

Implementation Plan in place. Full review nearing completion.

Lead agents and CAP partners

Central West Victoria Regional CAP 2002



South West Victoria Estuaries CAP 2002


Glenelg Hopkins Coastal and Marine Working Group and Lead agents

Central West Victoria Estuaries CAP 2005



Lorne CAP 1998 Implementation to be progressed largely through other plans. Progress being considered in parallel with review process for other CAPs.

Surf Coast Shire Council, GORCC and CAP partners

Anglesea CAP 1999 Implementation to be progressed largely through other plans. Progress being considered in parallel with review process for other CAPs.

Surf Coast Shire Council, GORCC and CAP partners

Warrnambool CAP 1999

Implementation Committee identified, Implementation Plan drafted. Progress being considered in parallel with review process for other CAPs.

Warrnambool City Council and CAP partners

Moyne CAP 2001 Implementation Committee identified, Implementation Plan drafted though limited progress. Full review underway.

Moyne Shire and CAP partners

Skenes Creek to Marengo CAP 2002

Implementation Committee established, limited progress on implementation plan. Full review nearing completion.

Colac Otway Shire Council, Otway Coast CoM and CAP partners

Glenelg CAP 2004 Implementation commenced. Full review nearing completion.

Glenelg Shire Council and CAP partners

Boating CAP Final Draft CAP endorsed by the Board in December 2009. Submitted to VCC for approval in January 2010. Editorial review being undertaken

WCB, Steering Committee and Reference Group


Suitable Development on the Coast The Board has participated in a number of strategic and statutory land use planning initiatives to deliver suitable development on the coast. The Board’s views are also sought for coastal development matters through s.52 inclusion in four of the six local planning schemes in the region. The Board’s participation in these issues is determined by consistency of proposals and planning schemes with the Victorian Coastal Strategy, Coastal Action Plans and the State Planning Policy Framework. Participation in statutory planning matters was guided by the Board’s Guidelines for Involvement in Statutory Planning. Formal and informal advice was provided on a range of matters including:

Membership of the Interagency Reference Group for the Great Ocean Road Interpretive Centre at Loch Ard Gorge

Objection to Planning Permit Application P09052, East Street, Narrawong A submission to the State Planning Policy Framework Review.

State, regional and local strategic planning The Board participated in a broad range of strategic planning initiatives to advocate for the implementation of the VCS and CAPs. This was undertaken through presentations, dedicated submissions and input and/or attendance at workshops and/or membership of governance structures for the following:

Coastal Climate Change Advisory Committee – attended Directions Hearing and provided a joint submission to the Main Report with VCC and RCBs.

Nicola Waldron and Madeline Wilson from DSE provided a detailed presentation of marine power issues emerging in Victoria, and the Board subsequently provided a submission to the Marine Power Discussion Paper

Development of joint submission to Climate Change Green Paper with Regional Coastal Boards and VCC

Regional Strategic Planning Initiative – G21 and Great South Coast Parliamentary Inquiry into the Environmental Effects Statement process in Victoria The Board received a presentation from Alistair Phillips, Manager Land Policy, DSE on the

Regional Catchment Strategy Guidelines and subsequently provided a written submission Marine Assets of the West Coast interview Draft Western Region Sustainable Water Strategy submission Ports and Environs Discussion Paper submission Provincial Victoria: Directions for the Next Decade Discussion Paper submission Proposed National Heritage Listing, Great Ocean Road and scenic environs submission Draft Glenelg Environment Strategy submission and Steering Committee Corangamite Shire Tourism Opportunities Study workshop Bells Beach Master Plan Draft Corangamite Coastal and Marine Biodiversity Strategy submission Port Fairy At Place project committee membership

Strategic planning for the region’s coastal assets, settlements, infrastructure and communities continues to evolve. Table 2 provides a summary of the status of coastal planning in the region as at 30 June 2010, as required of the Board pursuant to S.13 (a) of the Coastal Management Act 1995. The Western Coastal Board was pleased to have the opportunity to contribute formally and informally to the preparation of many of these documents:


Table 2: Status of Coastal Planning 2009-10 Title of Plan Status Responsibility Colac and Apollo Bay Car Parking Study Developing – Expect

completion 2011 Colac Otway Shire Council

Apollo Bay Harbour Master Plan Completed Colac Otway Shire Council Apollo Bay Structure Plan – (GORRS Funded) Completed Colac Otway Shire Council Apollo Bay Structure Plan – PSA Implementation C55 (Coastal Spaces Funded via RDV)

Completed Colac Otway Shire Council

GOR Region Landscape Assessment Study – PSA Implementation C55 (Coastal Spaces Funded via ESAS)


Colac Otway Shire Rural Living Study Developing – Expect completion 2011

Colac Otway Shire Council

Colac Structure Plan – PSA Implementation C55 (Coastal Spaces Funded via RDV)


Wye River/Sep Creek/Kennett River Structure Plan

Complete Colac Otway Shire Council

Wye River/Sep Creek/Kennett River Structure Plan – PSA Implementation C58 (Coastal Spaces Funded via ESAS)

Developing – Amendment exhibited in May 2010. Expect completion 2011.

Colac Otway Shire Council

Corangamite Region Wetland Strategy Complete Corangamite Catchment Management Authority (CMA)

Corangamite Marine and Coastal Biodiversity Strategy

Complete Corangamite CMA

Corangamite Native Vegetation Plan Complete (in 2006) Corangamite CMA Corangamite Regional River Health Strategy Complete Corangamite CMA Corangamite Salinity Action Plan Complete Corangamite CMA Corangamite Soil Health Strategy Complete Corangamite CMA Painkalac Creek Environmental Flow Determination

Complete Corangamite CMA

Southern Victorian Native Fish Strategy Complete Corangamite CMA on behalf of five coastal CMA’s and Melbourne Water

Coastal Spaces Landscape Assessment Study – PSA Implementation (Coastal Spaces Funded via ESAS)

Not commenced Corangamite Shire Council

Curdies River Estuary Management Plan Completed – October 2008

Corangamite and Moyne Shire Councils

Princetown Urban Design Framework (Coastal Spaces Funded via RDV)

Developing Corangamite Shire Council

Corangamite Fishery Management Plan Completed/Approved Department of Primary Industries

Glenelg Hopkins Fishery Management Plan Completed/Approved Due for Review 2011.

Department of Primary Industries

Portland Aquaculture Fisheries Reserves Management Plan

Completed/Approved Department of Primary Industries

Kooyang Sea Country Complete Framlingham Aboriginal Trust and Winda Mara Aboriginal Corporation

Flood Study for Port Fairy Developing Glenelg Hopkins CMA and Moyne Shire Council


Fitzroy Estuary Management Plan Completed/Approved Glenelg Hopkins CMA Glenelg Hopkins River Health Strategy Completed/Approved Glenelg Hopkins CMA Glenelg River Estuary Management Plan Completed/ Approved Glenelg Hopkins CMA Hopkins River Estuary Management Plan Completed/ Approved Glenelg Hopkins CMA Merri Estuary Management Plan Completed/ Approved Glenelg Hopkins CMA South Warrnambool Flood Study PSA Implementation C44

Complete Glenelg Hopkins CMA

Surry Estuary Management Plan Completed/Approved Glenelg Hopkins CMA Surry River Flood Study Complete Glenelg Hopkins CMA Yambuk Lake Estuary Management Plan Completed/Approved Glenelg Hopkins CMA Fawthrop Lagoon Management Plan Underway Glenelg Shire Council Coastal Hazards and Engineering Study (Coastal Spaces Funded via RDV)

Underway Glenelg Shire Council

Coastal Spaces Landscape Assessment Study – PSA Implementation C52 (Coastal Spaces Funded via ESAS)

Commenced – Amendment exhibited June 2010.

Glenelg Shire Council

Environmental Strategic Framework Developing Glenelg Shire Council Glenelg Environment Strategy Developing Glenelg Shire Council Glenelg Strategic Futures Plan Developing – Public

consultation completed 2009

Glenelg Shire Council

Portland Bay Coastal Infrastructure Plan Complete Glenelg Shire Council Futurescapes – Climate Change Demonstrator Project

Commenced Glenelg Shire Council and Department of Primary Industries

Cultural Heritage Management Plan In progress Great Ocean Road Coast Committee of Management

Environment and Land Management Plan Complete Great Ocean Road Coast Committee of Management

Point Grey and Slaughterhouse Master Plan On hold due to funding uncertainties.

Great Ocean Road Coast Committee of Management

Torquay Foreshore Master Plan Complete Great Ocean Road Coast Committee of Management

Weed Control and Native Vegetation Action Plan

Complete Great Ocean Road Coast Committee of Management

Belfast Lough Environmental Management Plan

Complete and awaiting endorsement

Moyne Shire Council

Coastal Spaces Landscape Assessment Study & GOR Region Landscape Assessment Study – PSA Implementation C21 (Coastal Spaces Funded via ESAS)

Completed – PSA C21 gazetted December 2009.

Moyne Shire Council

Environmental Sustainability Strategy Complete/approved Moyne Shire Council Peterborough UDG Amendment – PSA Implementation C29

Commenced – Exhibition completed March 2010

Moyne Shire Council

The Crags Management Plan Complete Moyne Shire Council Tower Hill Design Guidelines (Coastal Spaces Funded via RDV)

Underway Moyne Shire Council

Port Fairy East Beach Coastal Erosion Engineering & Feasibility Study

Developing/Rec’d by Council subject to technical peer review

Moyne Shire Council and Department of Sustainability and Environment

Coastal Management Plan Developing – Expected completion early 2011

Otway Coast Committee


Discovery Bay Marine National Park Draft Management Plan

Complete Parks Victoria

Great Otway National Park and Otway Forest Park Management Plan

Completed – December 2009

Parks Victoria

Indigenous Partnership Strategy Under review Parks Victoria Marengo Reefs Marine Sanctuary Draft Management Plan


Merri Marine Sanctuary Management Plan Complete Parks Victoria Point Addis Marine National Park, Point Danger Marine Sanctuary and Eagle Rock Marine Sanctuary Management Plan


Twelve Apostles Marine National Park and The Arches Marine Sanctuary Management Plan


Anglesea River & Estuary Management Plan Complete

Surf Coast Shire Council

Anglesea Riverbank Master Plan Complete Surf Coast Shire Council Bells Beach Master Plan Developing Surf Coast Shire Council Coastal Spaces Landscape Assessment Study – PSA Implementation (Coastal Spaces Funded via ESAS)

Complete Surf Coast Shire Council

Deep Creek Master Plan Completed/Approved Surf Coast Shire Council Painkalac Creek Estuary Management Plan Complete Surf Coast Shire Council Pathway strategy Complete Surf Coast Shire Council Pollution Source Investigation for Lorne Developing Surf Coast Shire Council Spring Creek Urban Growth Framework Plan (Coastal Spaces Funded via RDV)

Abandoned April 2009 Surf Coast Shire Council

Torquay / Jan Juc Structure Plan – PSA Implementation C37 (Coastal Spaces Funded via RDV)

Completed – PSA C37 gazetted June 2010


Torquay North Outline Development Plan Completed – March 2009


Torquay West Growth Area (Coastal Spaces Funded via RDV)

Underway Surf Coast Shire Council

Waste Water Management Plan Developing Surf Coast Shire Council Wastewater Management Plan – Moggs Creek Developing Surf Coast Shire Council White’s Beach Master Plan – Stage 1 Completed/Approved Surf Coast Shire Council White’s Beach Master Plan – Stage 2 Developing Surf Coast Shire Council Water Supply Demand Strategy 2007 - 2055 Completed June 2007 Wannon Water 50 year Biodiversity and Land Management Strategy

Completed May 2009 Wannon Water

Sustainability Strategy Completed June 2008 Wannon Water Allansford Structure Plan (Coastal Spaces Funded via RDV)

Underway Warrnambool City Council

Beach Cleaning Management Plan Completed Warrnambool City Council Coastal Design and Logans Beach Review Developing Warrnambool City Council Environmental Sustainability Strategy Completed – 2008 Warrnambool City Council Hopkins Point Road Structure Plan (Coastal Spaces Funded via RDV)

Completed Warrnambool City Council

Land Suitability Decision Framework Developing – Expected completion late 2011

Warrnambool City Council and Corangamite Shire Council

Land-use Audit Review of Residential Land (Coastal Spaces Funded via RDV)


Levy's Point Coastal Reserve Management Plan



Merri Street Design Guidelines & Ragland Parade Design Guidelines – PSA Implementation C67

Nearing completion – PSA adopted by Council

Warrnambool City Council

Rural Housing and Settlement Strategy Developing Warrnambool City Council and Moyne Shire Council

South Warrnambool Wetlands Management Plan


Warrnambool Coastal Landscape Review Developing Warrnambool City Council Warrnambool Foreshore Management Plan Completed Warrnambool City Council Port Fairy – Warrnambool Rail Trail Developing –

Expected completion 2011

Warrnambool City Council and Moyne Shire Council

Future Coasts program The Board has participated in a range of activities to progress the Future Coasts program, including the Coastal Climate Change Hazard Guidelines, the State-wide Assessment process and the Local Assessment process. Storm seas at the base of dunes at Port Fairy (Photo: James Pevitt)


3. Key WCB initiatives Coastal Priorities for NRM and Coastal Planning The Coastal Priorities for Western Victoria: Coastal Planning and NRM project was completed and the final report distributed to all regional and State stakeholders. The project was a pilot to establish regional priorities and promote effective collaboration between lead agents to improve ICZM. The Coastal Priorities project has delivered a priority list of themes with suggested initiatives to deliver on issues arising from those themes. The themes included:

Identifying and assessing coastal natural and built assets Positioning the region to respond to climate change Addressing the pressures of population growth and development Clarifying roles and facilitating collaborative arrangements Improving the awareness and engagement of communities and stakeholders

The initiatives identified were developed through the application of a logical analysis that considered the current situation for each issue, the gaps and the opportunities. The priority opportunities were: A consistent Asset and Threat Framework (including monitoring of asset condition) A collaborative research program for • assets, threats and systems • climate change impacts • demographic changes and development pressures A regional approach to • climate change response, including the potential for a Coastal Action Plan • coastal planning, including engagement with the Regional Strategic Planning initiative and TBL assessment of development opportunities • education and capacity building Refining the Coastal Priorities process Further refinement of the process and implementation of the subsequent 2009-10 annual priority-setting cycle did not occur as a number of regional plans were being developed. The Priorities project contributed to a range of plans including G21 and Great South Coast Regional Strategic Plans. Presentations were provided to a range of meetings and forums on the project. The Priorities Project fund did not receive any external funding during the year. Western Coastal and Marine Forum 2010 The Western Coastal and Marine Forum was held just outside the reporting period on the 8th and 9th of July, however, extensive planning for this regional event was undertaken during the 2009-10 year. The Forum was an initiative of the Board and was supported by the Victorian Coastal Council and Deakin University. The Forum focused on current key issues and addressed important opportunities and challenges for coastal communities. The Forum was held at Deakin University Warrnambool campus and attracted over 120 participants. It proved to be a popular and informative regional event. Keynote speeches from Professor Bruce Thom, Deputy Chair of the national Coastal Climate Change Council and President of Australian Coastal Society, and John Ginivan, Executive Director of Planning Policy, Department of Planning and Community Development, were well received. Other highlights included the interactive field trips, workshop sessions and an enjoyable entertaining evening dinner celebration with presentations from both Reg Lipson and Rod Quantock.


The regional focus of the forum was celebrated by participants who appreciated the opportunity to discuss significant issues on a regional level in a regional setting. Participants also indicated their interest in having regular regional coastal and marine events as they provide key opportunities to network and communicate within the coastal community. The Western Coastal Forum financial position will be reported in 2010-11. Economic Value of the Western Victorian Coast The Board progressed discussions on the feasibility of a project to develop an understanding of the Economic Value of the Coast for consideration in 2010. Successful abstracts were submitted on this concept for both the National Coast to Coast Conference and the NSW Coastal Conference. The 12 Apostles are a highly valuable natural feature of the west coast (Photo: Margot Harrison)


4. Increasing awareness, understanding and collaboration

Advice given to Minister and VCC

The offices of the Minister for the Environment and Climate Change, and the Parliamentary Secretary for Water and the Environment were provided with updates on progress of the Boating CAP and CAP Reviews.

The Chair and Acting Chair provided briefings to Michael Crutchfield MP, Parliamentary Secretary for Water and the Environment.

Advice was provided to and sought from VCC on a range of issues to improve coastal management in the region.

Relationships and collaboration The Board places a high value on robust and constructive relationships with stakeholders and effective collaboration. Activities included:

Collaboration between the Victorian Coastal Council and Regional Coastal Boards occurred throughout the year through the Chair/Acting Chair’s participation as a member of Council, and through meetings of Chairs, Chairs and Executive Officers, and Executive Officers to progress a range of issues.

• A regional Board visit was conducted to the Glenelg municipality in June 2010, including a field trip and a meeting with Shire Councillors and senior staff.

• Attendance at the Victorian Coastal Awards and congratulations to Lynn Murrell, previous Chairman of the Board, who was presented with the Outstanding Individual Achievement Award in recognition of his 30 year commitment to seeking better outcomes for the coast.

• Attendance at the DSE Coastal Planners Forum, Torquay Thursday 24th June. • A presentation by Libby Mears, Chair and David Harper, Executive Officer of the Victorian

Coastal Council provided the members with some background on the Council, its activities and its relationship with the RCBs in September 2009

• Board team building session - Leading Teams facilitated a targeted and valuable session on team building and relationships in September 2009

• Reports were provided to key stakeholders to promote understanding of coastal issues and the activities of the WCB.

• The Board engaged in a wide range of regional initiatives to provide advice and support to partner organisations throughout the year.

Partnership/Stakeholder initiatives involving RCB The Board is involved in a wide range of partnerships and initiatives in the region including, but not limited to:

Directorship of the South West Sustainability Partnership. Membership of the Glenelg Hopkins Coastal and Marine Working Group. Co-convenor of the Coastal Partnerships Group with Corangamite CMA. This group focuses on

strategic issues of mutual interest to the 2 organisations. The Group comprises two Board members from each organisation, plus CEOs and program managers. Sue Mudford, Lex Chalmers, Helen Scarborough and Steve Blackley represented the Board.

Membership of the Corangamite Regional Investment Committee by Lex Chalmers. Members and staff attended a range of events such as the National Climate Change Forum,

Victorian Marine Forum, Barwon SW Climate Change Forum and Public Land CEO and Chair Networking Forum convened by DSE.

Support for applications to recognise and support a wide range of projects with regional implications e.g. Great Ocean Road Estuaries project and “Integrated Demographic and Climate Change Risk Assessment and Adaptation in Coastal Communities” research project with Griffith University.

Membership of the G21 Environment Pillar. Building relationships with peripheral stakeholders, such as, VicRoads.


5. The Land and Biodiversity White Paper The Land and Biodiversity White Paper was launched by Mr Gavin Jennings, Minister for Environment and Climate Change on the 9th December 2009. Minister Jennings announced that through a program of state-wide institutional change, the Western Coastal Board would merge with the Glenelg Hopkins and Corangamite Catchment Management Authorities to form the Western Districts Natural Resources and Catchments Authority (now the Western Catchments and Coastal Authority) by 30 June 2011. The Board is fortunate to have constructive relationships with its merger partners. It is recognised that the role of the new organisation will include the current roles of CMAs and Regional Coastal Boards, and is expected to increase the focus of existing organisations on linkages with the land use planning system. The Board has advocated for the new organisation to be enabled to work towards horizontal and vertical integration and consider the environmental, social and economic considerations required for the delivery of Integrated Coastal Zone Management. The Board has participated in a wide range of initiatives to implement the White Paper, including: The Acting Chair attending a meeting with merger entity Chairs and, Minister Jennings regarding

the White Paper and institutional arrangements. Attending the Good Governance Conference for all merger organisations conducted by DSE in

June 2010. Receiving a presentation from Peter Codd, Senior Project Officer, Catchment and Water

Services, Statewide Services, DSE on the merger process and DSE activities. The Acting Chair and EO participated in a joint meeting of merger partners to develop advice on merger approaches to DSE in December 2009.

Boating is one of the many coastal issues that requires consideration of natural, social and economic factors – Boat entering Port Campbell (Photo: Corangamite Shire)


6. Finance, Administration and Membership 6.1 Funding Recurrent funding provided to the Board by the Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) during 2009-10 was $259,078. In addition, generous support was received from DSE through the provision of subsidised office premises and facilities, which delivered substantial recurrent savings. 6.2 Board Membership The 2009-10 year represented the beginning of a new three-year term for the Board. However, the implementation of the Land and Biodiversity White Paper will reduce the Board’s term to two years. A total of seven meetings were held during the year. Chairman Susan Mudford MAICD – Acting Chairman since November 2009 Sue has professional experience in risk management, governance, community engagement, facilitation, regional development, biodiversity and conservation. She is actively involved in landcare and conservation activities and is Regional Manager for the Glenelg Hopkins area for Trust for Nature. Sue is a member of the Western Coastal Board Committee and currently represents the Board on the Victorian Coastal Council and a number of strategic planning forums. Meetings attended: 7 of 7 Lynette Skilbeck - Chairman (extended leave from November 2009 and resigned in June 2010) Lynette has commerce and law degrees from Melbourne University and is a current Australian Legal Practitioner practising as a lawyer in Warrnambool. Lynette's area of expertise is in property law including general property, commercial property arrangements, development and planning and environmental law. She is a Warrnambool and district local - born and bred. Meetings attended: 3 of 7 Members – Community Representatives Lex Chalmers OAM Lex holds B.A., Dip. Ed. qualifications, and has extensive experience in teaching, conservation and planning issues (environment and heritage), community development through education and the arts, and as a tourism operator. She has been a Board member since 2006 and represents WCB on the Corangamite Regional Investment Committee. Meetings attended: 7 of 7 Denise Lovett Denise was appointed to the Board in 2009 and has extensive experience and knowledge in Aboriginal culture, heritage and indigenous communities. Meetings attended: 3 of 7 Andrew Mason Andrew is the Director Sustainable Development with the Corangamite Shire which covers the areas of economic development, town planning, local laws and the environment. A job with a planning consultancy based in Bendigo sparked a keen interest in rural and regional planning. An opportunity to work as the planner based in Mansfield near Mount Buller provided Andrew with an opportunity to gain experience working for local government and pursue another


keen interest skiing. Other jobs in local and state government followed including a position as Director Planning and Environment with Bass Coast Shire. Andrew’s qualifications include a Masters in Business Administration, Graduate Diploma in Parks, Recreation and Heritage and a Bachelor in Town Planning. Meetings attended: 6 of 7 Alain Purnell Alain, a resident of Lorne, is former General Manager Environmental Affairs of BHP and former director of Landcare Australia Limited (1991 - 1998). Alain holds degrees in chemical engineering and business administration and has corporate governance, senior management, strategic planning, community engagement, land protection and environmental conservation experience. Alain is also a member of the Board of the Corangamite Catchment Management Authority and provides a link between the catchment and the coast. His leadership role in the Lorne Care Community Group involves other dimensions of coastal management. He is a member of Landcare Australia's Victorian Advisory Committee. Alain joined the Western Coastal Board on a co-opted basis from December 2004 and became a full Board member in June 2005. Meetings attended: 5 of 7 Carole Reid (appointed in October 2009) Carole is currently the Chief Executive of Shipwreck Coast Tourism which is responsible for industry development, product development and marketing of the Shipwreck Coast Region. Carole is also a Director of Great Southern Touring Route which is responsible for the international marketing of the Great Ocean Road region, Grampians and Ballarat and a board member of Great Ocean Road Marketing. As well as her role as board member for Western Coastal Board she is currently a board member of Realise Enterprises, a service providing opportunities for people with special needs and Board Member of Monivae College Foundation, Hamilton. Carole's past roles have included roles as Chief Commissioner for Warrnambool City Council, board member of Victorian Tour Operators Association, Country Victorian Tourism Council, Lyndoch Aged Care and South West TAFE. Meetings attended: 3 of 5 Dr Helen Scarborough Helen is a senior lecturer in economics in the Faculty of Business and Law at Deakin University. She has a PhD in environmental management and development from the Australian National University. With a keen and active research interest in the area of environmental and ecological economics, Helen is particularly interested in the role of economics in natural resource management. Helen lives in Warrnambool and joined the Western Coastal Board in July 2009. Meetings attended: 6 of 7 Assoc. Professor John Sherwood Dr John Sherwood: holds qualifications in science, philosophy, education and environmental studies, with extensive experience as a research scientist in freshwater, marine and estuarine systems and environmental management. He is an Honorary Associate Professor in the School of Life and Environmental Sciences at Deakin University in Warrnambool. John is also a Board Member and Deputy Chairman of the Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority and provides a strategic link between the catchment and the coast. Meetings attended: 5 of 7 John Young John was the former Chief Executive of the Wimmera Catchment Management Authority. He has 35 years experience in natural resource and catchment management, including agriculture, national


park, public and coastal land management. John is also a member of the Victorian Catchment Management Council and is presently a community member of the Moyne Shire Environment & Conservation Committee and the Moyne Shire Coastal Risk Management Steering Committee. Meetings attended: 6 of 7 Members – Agency Representatives Rod Newnham – Parks Victoria Rod is currently the Regional Manager for Parks Victoria West which includes the north-west, west and south-west of the state. Some of Victoria's most significant parks fall within this area including the Grampians National Park, Port Campbell National Park (12 Apostles), the Mallee Parks and the new Great Otway National Park. Rod brings knowledge and experience in managing natural and cultural values in coastal environments and mitigating threats to those values. Sustainable tourism and recreational management is a key park management responsibility as the economic activity generated plays a critical role in regional economies. Prior to taking on the Regional Manager role in March 2006, Rod was the Director of Capital Infrastructure for Parks Victoria. This role gave him experience in the development, implementation and challenges of a broad range of marine and coastal infrastructure. Various senior roles over the last few years have enabled Rod to build skills in developing connections with local communities. His strong background in fire and the community focus on this issue have highlighted the importance of this skill. After graduating as a Williamson fellow in 2004, Rod now sits on the Ballarat and Western region leadership committee where he can participate in his passion of developing young rural regional leaders. Meetings attended: 3 of 7 Craig Whiteford – Department of Sustainability and Environment Craig is currently the Statewide Program Leader Biodiversity Services with the Department of Sustainability and Environment. Craig has pursued a career in environmental conservation and natural resource management in Australia and oversees. He has led award winning community based environmental projects and has a fundamental interest in the wise and sustainable use of natural resources. Craig's qualifications include a Graduate Diploma Sciences Communication, Bachelor of Science (Forestry) and he is a Fellow of the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation. Meetings attended: 6 of 7 WCB Staff Steve Blackley (Executive Officer) Steve commenced with the Board in December 2005. He was previously Executive Officer of the Central Coastal Board from 2002-2004 and has worked for a variety of organisations involved in coastal management including the NSW Coastal Council, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, NSW Fisheries and Great Ocean Road Coast Committee. He was a member of the Surf Coast Shire Planning Committee during 2004-05 and has worked at officer and Board level with a range of non-government organisations such as the NSW Nature Conservation Council. He has a degree in Coastal Management, is a member of the Academic Advisory Committee for the Bachelor and Masters of Applied Science programs at Southern Cross University and is enrolled in the Leaders for Geelong program. Margot Harrison (Executive Assistant/Coastal Projects) – to Jan 2010 Margot joined the Board in July 2007 and worked 4 days per week. Her position was divided between administrative/executive support and project work. Margot has a degree in Applied Science (Planning) and has wide experience in human resource management, administration and planning. Linda Kelly (Project Manager) – to December 2009 Linda joined the Board in July 2009 and brought high level experience in government and the water sector.


Gemma Beard (Coastal Project Officer) – from April 2010 Gemma commenced with the Board in April 2010. Gemma shares her time between her role as the Coastal Project Officer for the Board and as an Environmental Planner for the Department of Sustainability and Environment. She was previously with the Department of Primary Industries, Sustainable Landscapes Division, and worked with community groups and landholders on the integration of catchment incentives and resource management initiatives. Gemma has a degree in Marine Science and Management from Southern Cross University and has continued postgraduate study with the University of Queensland's School of Natural and Rural Systems Management. Carlee Melville (Program Support Officer) – from April 2010 Carlee commenced with the Board in April 2010 and she provides administrative program support to the Executive Officer and the Board. Carlee has a well-substantiated background in finance administration and executive support working within Department of Sustainability since 2003. Carlee has a diploma in Business Administration. 6.4 Board Meetings Seven ‘ordinary’ Board meetings were held during the financial year as follows:

MEETING NO. LOCATION DATE 1-09/10 Warrnambool 14 August 2009 2-09/10 Torquay 10 and 11 September

2009 3-09/10 Warrnambool 9 October 2009 4-09/10 Melbourne 11 December 2009 5-09/10 Camperdown 12 February 2010 6-09/10 Camperdown 9 April 2010 7-09/10 Portland 10 and 11 June 2010

Meetings were held throughout the Board’s region in order to facilitate engagement with stakeholders, and to promote investigation and discussion of local issues. 6.5 Sub-Committee meetings The Sub-Committee provides the Board with advice on a range of governance, financial and capacity-related matters and met twice during the year. The first meeting occurred in September 2009 and the second in May 2010. Membership included Lynette Skilbeck, Sue Mudford, Craig Whiteford and John Sherwood, with the Executive Officer in support.

For further information contact: Western Coastal Board

P O Box 103 Geelong 3220 Victoria Australia Telephone: (03) 5226 4008

e-mail: [email protected] website: www.wcb.vic.gov.au


7. Glossary Catchment Management Authority (CMA): Established under the Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994 to achieve integrated and sustainable management of land and water resources on a catchment basis. There are two CMAs in Western Victoria. Climate Change Advisory Committee: appointed to investigate and recommend ways in which Victoria’s land-use planning and development controls can best support the Victorian Government’s policy for managing the coastal impacts of climate change as outlined within the Victorian Coastal Strategy 2008. Coastal Action Plan (CAP): identifies strategic directions and objectives for use and development in a region, or part of a region, to facilitate recreational use and tourism, and to provide for protection and enhancement of significant coastal features, including the marine environment. Coastal Spaces: a joint project between the Victorian Coastal Council and Department of Sustainability & Environment to assist coastal councils protect the character of coastal townships and the open spaces between towns along the coast. Coastal Spaces Landscape Assessment Study: a comprehensive landscape assessment of the coastline in Victoria outside of the Melbourne metropolitan region. Committee of Management (CoM): appointed under the Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978 to manage reserved Crown land on behalf of the Minister. For coastal land, committees are either an agency, such as Parks Victoria, Local Government, or community volunteers appointed through an expression of interest process. Department of Planning and Community Development (DPCD): responsible for land use planning and environmental assessment. Department of Primary Industries (DPI): promotes the sustainable development of primary industries in Victoria, including fisheries, agriculture, forests, petroleum, minerals and energy Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE): responsible for the sustainable management of public land, water resources, climate change, bushfires, forests and ecosystems in Victoria. Ecologically sustainable development: development which improves the total quality of life, now and in the future, in a way that maintains the ecological processes on which life depends. G21: Geelong Region Alliance is the Strategic Planning Committee for the Geelong region and is responsible for leading the development and implementation of the region’s strategic plan across five municipalities – Greater Geelong, Colac Otway, Surf Coast, Queenscliffe, and Golden Plains. Great South Coast: the Great South Coast is located in South Western Victoria and includes the municipalities of Southern Grampians, Glenelg, Warrnambool, Corangamite, Moyne, and Colac Otway. Integrated coastal zone management (ICZM): a framework that attempts to integrate planning and management in a region, such as the State of Victoria, across the land and sea interface and the private and public land interface, to treat the coastal zone (which includes the catchment) as one biophysical entity. Parks Victoria: established under the Parks Victoria Act 1998 to provide services to the State for the management of parks, reserves, and other land. Planning scheme: a legal document prepared by the local council or the Minister for Planning and approved by the Minister under the Planning and Environment Act 1987. A planning scheme sets out policy and requirements for use, development and protection of land within a municipality. Regional Catchment Strategy (RCS): regional strategic plans developed by Catchment Management Authorities which describe how natural resource assets in a catchment are to be managed in a sustainable and integrated way. Victorian Coastal Council (VCC): The Victorian Coastal Council is appointed under the Coastal Management Act 1995 to undertake strategic planning and management of the Victorian coast, and to provide advice to the Minister for Environment and Climate Change. It has a number of responsibilities under the Act, including preparing and submitting to the Minister a draft Victorian Coastal Strategy. It is responsible for the coordination and implementation of the Victorian Coastal Strategy once approved by the Minister. Victorian Coastal Strategy 2008 (VCS): is the third iteration of the Victorian Coastal Strategy, and sets a long term vision for the coast and provides policies and actions to guide decisions about its management over the next five years.

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