environment plan 2012–2017 · phillip island nature parks wildlife rehabilitation centre wrc...

Environment Plan 2012–2017

Phillip Island Nature Parks Environment Plan 2012–2017 is available online www.penguins.org.au PO Box 97 Cowes, Victoria 3922 Australia | Telephone: +61 3 5951 2820 Fax: +61 3 5956 8394 | Email: [email protected]

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Phillip Island Nature Parks Environment Plan 2012–2017

Phillip Island Nature Parks Environment Plan 2012–2017

Contents

1 From the CEO 5

2 Introduction 6 2.1 Mission and Vision 7 2.2 Planning Context 7 2.2.1 Organisational Planning Context 7 2.2.2 Environment Plan 2012–2017 8 2.3 Partnerships 9 2.4 Regulatory Setting 9 2.4.1 Phillip Island Nature Parks Regulations 9 2.5 Structure of the Environment Plan 10

3 Park-wide Planning, Conservation and Partnerships 11 3.1 Island-wide Planning Strategies 12 3.1.1 Whole of Island Paths and Tracks, Assets and Access Planning 12 3.1.2 Visual Amenity 13 3.1.3 Public Land Tour Operator and Activity Provider Licences and Event Permits 13

4 Conservation 14 4.1 Climate Variation 14 4.2 Whole of Island Biodiversity Management 15 4.3 Native Flora and Fauna 15 4.3.1 Little Penguins 17 4.3.2 Short-tailed Shearwaters 18 4.3.3 Hooded Plovers 18 4.3.4 Other Birds 19 4.3.5 Australian Fur Seals 19 4.3.6 Bats 19 4.3.7 Reptiles and Amphibians 20 4.3.8 Freshwater Fish and Macro-invertebrates 20 4.3.9 Koalas 20 4.3.10 Swamp Wallabies 21 4.3.11 Cape Barren Geese 21 4.4 Management of Threats to Flora and Fauna 22 4.4.1 Weeds and Introduced Plants 22 4.4.2 Feral and Domestic Animals 23 4.4.3 Viruses, Bacteria and Fungi 25 4.5 Habitat Protection and Risk Management 26 4.5.1 Fire 26 4.5.2 Marine Pollution 27 4.5.3 Aircraft 27 4.6 Heritage Conservation 28 4.6.1 Archaeological Sites 28 4.6.2 European Historic Sites 28

5 Community Partnerships 30 5.1.1 Wildlife Rehabilitation 30 5.1.2 Grants, Sponsorships and Partnerships 30

6 Key Area Management 32 6.1 Introduction 33 6.2 Key Areas 34 6.2.1 Values 34 6.2.2 Map of all Key Areas 35

7 Key Area A: Summerland Peninsula 36 7.1 Sub-Area A1: Seal Rock and Black Rock 38 7.2 Sub-Area A2: The Nobbies and South Coast 39 7.3 Sub-Area A3: The Nobbies Centre 40 7.4 Sub-Area A4: Summerland Plateau 41 7.5 Sub-Area A5: Solent Avenue to Cowrie Beach 42 7.6 Sub-Area A6: Green Lake and Flynn Dunes 43 7.7 Sub-Area A7: Penguin Parade (Summerland Bay) 44 7.8 Sub-Area A8: Swan Lake and Surrounds 45

Phillip Island Nature ParksPage 2

8 Key Area B: North-west Beaches 46 8.1 Sub-Area B1: Devon Avenue to Cadogan Avenue 47 8.2 Sub-Area B2: Woolshed Bight to Flynn Reef 48

9 Key Area C: South Coast Beaches 50 9.1 Sub-Area C1: Kitty Millers Bay (Kennon Head to Watts Point) 52 9.2 Sub-Area C2: Thorny Beach and Hutchinson Beach (Watts Point to Wild Dog Bluff) 53 9.3 Sub-Area C3: Berry Beach 54 9.4 Sub-Area C4: Pyramid Rock 55 9.5 Sub-Area C5: Pyramid Rock to YCW Beach 56 9.6 Sub-Area C6: YCW Beach and Smiths Beach 57 9.7 Sub-Area C7: Sunderland Bay to Surfies Point 59 9.8 Sub-Area C8: Surfies Point to Bruce Avenue 60 9.9 Sub-Area C9: Forrest Caves 61 9.10 Sub-Area C10: The Colonnades 62

10 Key Area D: Woodlands 64 10.1 Sub-Area D1: Ventnor Koala Reserve 67 10.2 Sub-Area D2: Five Ways Reserve 68 10.3 Sub-Area D3: Koala Conservation Centre (public area) 69 10.4 Sub-Area D4: Koala Conservation Centre (Plantation, Wetlands and Surrounds) 70 10.5 Sub-Area D5: Oswin Roberts Reserve 71 10.6 Sub-Area D6: Conservation Hill 72

11 Key area E: Rhyll Inlet and Silverleaves Beach 74 11.1 Sub-Area E1: Rhyll and Rowell Swamps 75 11.2 Sub-Area E2: Former Rhyll Landfill and Transfer Station 76 11.3 Sub-Area E3: Rhyll Inlet 77 11.4 Sub-Area E4: Silverleaves – Banksia Woodland 78 11.5 Sub-Area E5: Silverleaves Beach 79 11.6 Sub-Area E6: Observation Point and Ghetto Rocks 80

12 Key Area F: Churchill Island and Surrounds 81 12.1 Sub-Area F1: Churchill Island Woodlands and Coast 83 12.2 Sub-Area F2: Churchill Island Historic Farm 84 12.3 Sub-Area F3: Rhyll to Churchill Road Saltmarsh and Swan Bay 86 12.4 Sub-Area F4: Fisher’s Wetland to Boys Home Road 87 12.5 Sub-Area F5: Newhaven Wetland 88

13 Key Area G: Cape Woolamai 90 13.1 Sub-Area G1: Princeton Avenue Block 92 13.2 Sub-Area G2: Cape Woolamai Tombolo 93 13.3 Sub-Area G3: Cape Woolamai Plateau 95

14 Appendices and References 96 14.1 Appendix 1: Existing Plans/Reports 97 14.2 Appendix 2: Written Submissions 98 14.3 Appendix 3: Partnerships Summary 98 14.4 Appendix 4: Regulatory Setting 99 14.4.1 International Treaties and Obligations 99 14.4.2 Federal Legislation 100 14.4.3 State Legislation and management frameworks 101 14.4.4 Biosphere Reserve 102 14.4.5 Special Management Areas – Rhyll & Summerland 102 14.5 Appendix 5: Triple-Bottom-Line values considered for coastal and marine assets 103 14.6 Appendix 6: Intertidal species found on the Nobbies Rock platform 107

15 References and Abbreviations 107

Page 3Environment Plan 2012–2017

Abbreviations

The following abbreviations have been used within this plan:

Name Abbreviation

Aboriginal Affairs Victoria AAV

Australian Maritime Safety Authority AMSA

Bass Coast Shire Council BCSC or the Council

Barbara Martin Bush Bank BMBB

Civil Aviation Safety Authority CASA

Country Fire Authority CFA

Churchill Island CI

Committee of Management CoM

Department of Transport DOT

Department of Primary Industries DPI

Department of Sustainability and Environment DSE

Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act, Australia, 1999 EPBC

Phillip Island Nature Parks Environment Plan 2012-2017 Environment Plan

Ecological Vegetation Classes EVCs

Fauna & Flora Guarantee Act, Victoria 1988 FFG

Friends of Churchill Island Society Inc. FOCIS

Friends of the Koalas FOK

International Union for Conservation of Nature IUCN

Koala Conservation Centre KCC

Phillip Island Nature Parks Nature Parks

Phillip Island and District Historical Society PIDHS

Port Phillip and Western Port Catchment Management Authority PPWPCMA

Phillip Island Boardriders Club PIBC

Parks Victoria PV

Phillip Island Nature Parks Strategic Plan 2012–2017 SP

Victorian Advisory Lists of Rare or Threatened Species (Plants, Vertebrate Fauna or Invertebrate Fauna) VAL

Victorian List of Rare or Threatened Plant Species VROT

Western Port Biosphere WPB

Phillip Island Nature Parks Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre WRC

Woolamai Beach Surf Life Saving Club WSLSC

The terms Administration, Education, Finance, Marketing, Operations or Research Department are used to indicate departments within the Phillip Island Nature Parks organisation.

NotesIUCN An international organisation that compiles information from a network of conservation bodies across the world. It maintains listings of the world’s most rare and endangered species.

EPBC Act The Australian Government’s central piece of environmental legislation, providing a framework to protect and manage nationally and internationally important flora, fauna, ecological communities and heritage places.

EVCs The basic mapping units used for biodiversity planning and conservation assessment at landscape, regional and broader scales in Victoria. EVCs are given a Bioregional Conservation Status (BCS) which is an assessment of the conservation status of the native vegetation type (EVC) in the context of a particular bioregion, taking account of how commonly it originally occurred, the current level of depletion and the level of degradation of condition typical of remaining stands.

VAL & VROT Developed by DSE advisory committees, based on technical information and advice obtained from a range of experts.

FFG The FFG Act 1988 is State legislation that provides for the listing of threatened species and communities to aid the management of threatening processes.


1 | From the CEO

The remarkable diversity and quality of ecosystems found within Phillip Island Nature Parks means that this is one of Victoria’s truly special places. The responsibility to conserve and enhance these important natural values is our organisation’s key priority. This is undertaken in partnership with other natural resource managers, the many volunteers that support our work and our wider community.Our Environment Department leads the planning and implementation of this Plan. This is the division’s major Five Year Plan specifically focussing on environmental objectives and outcomes for the Nature Parks.

This Plan draws on the Nature Parks’ extensive understanding developed by our organisation through our scientific research and on-the-ground experience. Our environment staff have worked with our research and education teams, and consulted with specialist advisors, key stakeholders and community groups, to achieve the most comprehensive evaluation of the current status, priority needs and potential threats to the Nature Parks’ natural assets ever produced.

The Environment Plan demonstrates the increasingly sophisticated methodologies being adopted by natural resource managers across Australia. In particular, it introduces an ‘Assets Based Framework’: an approach which allows us to capture a vast range of information about the ecological, cultural and economic values of the Nature Parks, grouped within a total of seven key areas and forty sub-areas. The completion of this Framework is a long-term process, and is an important initiative which will ensure the Nature Parks is at the leading edge of environmental management now and into the future.

The level of detail and scale of this Plan reflects the importance and complexity of the conservation work we undertake. Some elements of the Plan are necessarily technical, so key goals are highlighted in each section to allow everyone with an interest in the future of the Nature Parks to clearly identify our priorities and targets.

An area of particular community interest is the application of regulations affecting public access and dog recreation. There are currently a number of areas in the Nature Parks, which are clearly indicated within the Plan, where existing regulations are under review.

We are now working with key stakeholders, in particular Bass Coast Shire Council and Department of Sustainability and Environment, to develop an Access Policy which will provide a framework for the application of access regulations. A process of community consultation will then be completed.

As the Nature Parks embarks on an exciting period, which will see the rehabilitation and enhancement of the Summerland Peninsula to create one of Australia’s most unique conservation areas, our Environment Plan provides a comprehensive, scientifically supported framework.

I commend this Plan to you.

Matthew Jackson

Chief Executive Officer


2 | Introduction

The Nature Parks is a not-for-profit organisation created by the State Government of Victoria in 1996. Located 120 kilometres south east of central Melbourne, it comprises over 1,805 hectares of Crown Land set aside under the Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978 “for the conservation of areas of natural interest or beauty or of scientific, historic or archaeological interest”. Phillip Island is part of Bunurong/Boon Wurrung country, and the Nature Parks acknowledges their custodianship of Phillip Island and surrounds. The Nature Parks is part of the United Nations Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) Western Port Biosphere Reserve, and abuts the Western Port Ramsar wetland.

The Nature Parks Board is appointed under section 14(2) of the Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978 and is responsible for the strategic direction and governance of the Parks as outlined in the Act.

The Nature Parks receives no recurrent operational funding from the State Government and generates revenue primarily from tourism to fund its administration, marketing and work in visitor management, conservation, research and education. However, grant and project funding from Government and sponsors is also received.

The Nature Parks operates four major visitor centres; the Penguin Parade, Koala Conservation Centre, Churchill Island and the Nobbies Centre, attracting around one million visitors annually. The Nature Parks is the largest employer on Phillip Island.

The Nature Parks is located in one of Australia’s fastest growing regions - Bass Coast Shire. The current population of Bass Coast Shire is expected to increase by 40 per cent over the next 20 years. The number of recreational users, tourists and commercial activities on Phillip Island will also increase rapidly and it is vital to balance appropriate environmental protection with the needs and impacts of these groups.

In the 15 years since its formation, the Nature Parks has achieved significant gains for the biodiversity of Phillip Island. Through research and environmental management, habitats have been enhanced and pest plants and predators reduced.

The Little Penguin colony, reduced to 18,000 birds in the 1980s, now exceeds 32,000 and there have been no Little Penguins killed by foxes on the Summerland Peninsula for over three years. Protected bird species including Cape Barren Geese, Hooded Plovers and Short-tailed Shearwaters are increasing and the koala breeding program is a continuing success. Churchill Island’s historic buildings and grounds have been preserved and enhanced.

Despite these achievements, there remain a number of key environmental management issues within the Nature Parks, which this Plan seeks to address, including:

•Conservation of important vegetation, habitat and heritage sites•Management of coastal areas for impending sea level rise and increase in frequency of storms and storm surge,

caused by climate variation•Management of area’s visitor carrying capacities to sustainably manage key areas and preserve the quality of

visitor experience•Management of public access to beaches and other areas of the Nature Parks•Management of pedestrians and bicyclists•Consideration of the impacts of urbanisation•Locating key visitor infrastructure.

The actions listed in this plan are key priorities for the next five years. They will largely be implemented through funding allocations in the annual budget process. Some actions will be subject to sourcing additional funds from grants providers and sponsors.


2.1 Mission and VisionOur Mission

To conserve and enhance the Nature Parks’ environment for current and future generations, whilst achieving a balanced environmental, economic and social outcome.

Our Vision

To be a world–recognised place of conservation excellence, providing outstanding and authentic experiences for all.In striving to achieve our vision to be a world–recognised place of conservation excellence, the Environment Plan 2012-2017 is based on the following principles:

•Conservation and protection of the natural environment and heritage values•Sustainable use of natural resources•Recognition of the role government expects the regional community to play•Recognition of the Indigenous communities as the original custodians of natural resources on the Island•Balance between environmental health, social well-being and economic prosperity, and to recognise their

interdependence•Anticipation of threats and opportunities•Planning that considers local knowledge, the causes of problems, and uses scientific evidence •Decisions that are open to change as knowledge and understanding develop•Opportunity for participation in decisions by all those with a stake in the outcome.

Note: A detailed map and list of the Crown Allotments which comprise Phillip Island Nature Parks is available on our website www.penguins.org.au

2.2 Planning Context2.2.1 Organisational Planning ContextThe Nature Parks Strategic Plan 2012-2017 summarises the strategic-level priorities that the Nature Parks will pursue in the next five years, as well as articulating a 20 year vision for the organisation. The Strategic Plan identifies three key imperatives which will steer the Nature Parks and move towards the achievement of our future vision:

• Imbed the core goal of conservation in the way we work, the messages we give and all experiences of the Nature Parks

•Lay the foundations to reinvent the Nature Parks as an outstanding contemporary conservation destination, and the Summerland Peninsula as an environmental, recreational and tourism icon

•Make sure the organisation has an appropriate governance framework and the partnerships to enable us to deliver and maintain our vision in the critical years ahead.

Within this strategic framework, the Nature Parks will continue to develop detailed planning documents for our established programs in environment, research, education, administration, marketing, technology, asset management and human resources and workforce management. The Planning Framework 2012–2017 (Figure 1) illustrates the organisational context within which the Environment Plan fits.

The Environment Plan has a critical relationship to the development of the Summerland Peninsula Master Plan and the Phillip Island Nature Parks Access Policy. Working collaboratively with BCSC, DSE and the community, the Access Policy will seek to establish criteria for emergency, short, medium and long–term changes to public access, including weightings for public safety, environmental risk and anticipated public impact. The outcomes of this process will impact on some aspects of the environment team’s planning, and vice versa.

Similarly, the development of the Summerland Peninsula Master Plan will seek to be informed by environmental management priorities and long-term goals.


Figure 1

Planning Framework 2012-2017

2.2.2 Environment Plan 2012-2017The purpose of the Environment Plan 2012–2017 is to provide a five-year planning framework for the Environment Department, identifying specific goals and actions the Nature Parks will undertake in planning, conservation and community partnerships in the medium to long term. Day to day work plans, including maintenance schedules, are the purpose of departmental Annual Work Plans.

Appendix 1 contains a list of existing plans currently utilised by the Environment Department.

An extensive process of community and stakeholder consultation was undertaken to inform the development of the Environment Plan, including a series of public and special interest group workshops and information sessions conducted over a five month period from January to May 2012.

A specialist advisory panel provided expert advice on natural resource management and environmental science. The Environment Plan’s development process was communicated to the public through a dedicated website and local newspaper advertising. In all, almost 200 people directly participated in consultation.

The Draft Environment Plan 2012-2017 was released for formal public comment for a five week period in May-June 2012, with approximately 435 copies distributed to the public and key stakeholders, and made available online.

A total of 28 formal submissions were received.

A list of submitting organisations and individuals is provided in Appendix 2.

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2.3 Partnerships The protection and enhancement of the Nature Parks is not undertaken in isolation. A number of Government departments and agencies, conservation groups and community organisations make important contributions to the Nature Parks’ activities in a wide range of areas.

Many actions outlined in this Plan have one or more partners involved to achieve our goals, providing shared outcomes which contribute to wider regional and state natural resource management objectives. In total 40 partners have been identified in this Plan; the Nature Parks appreciates the invaluable contribution made by each.

Appendix 3 provides a summary of all partners with whom the Nature Parks is currently involved.

CommunityThe Nature Parks values its unique relationship with the community of Phillip Island.

Community involvement is vital in achieving integrated natural resource management. Volunteer environmental groups are involved in the development and implementation of a number of plans that support action at a local scale. Input from local Indigenous communities is also critical in maintaining cultural heritage values on the Island.

2.4 Regulatory SettingThe work of the Nature Parks sits within a range of wider legislation and obligations, and is informed by a range of key agreements and plans at an international, national, state and local level.

A detailed overview of the Nature Parks’ regulatory environment is located in Appendix 4.

2.4.1 Phillip Island Nature Parks Regulations The Nature Parks Board is responsible for the strategic direction and governance of the Nature Parks under the Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978. Under Section 13 of the Act regulations are prepared and approved by the relevant Minister and published in the Government Gazette (Crown Land (Reserves) [Phillip Island Nature Park] Regulations 2010). The Nature Parks is vested with the responsibility to enact the regulations that help protect sensitive environmental areas and species, and ensure public safety and enjoyment. Regulations are updated every 10 years.

The Nature Parks Board as a Committee of Management can vary some regulations through Determinations, for example under Regulation 18: “The Committee may, by determination, set aside a specified area of the Park as an area in which a person may camp.” A Determination is made on what days, times and locations a person may camp in the Nature Parks. The Nature Parks Board also has the ability to issue permits for one-off, not-for–profit events such as weddings within the Nature Parks. A person or business who conducts a guided tour or recreational activity for profit within the Nature Parks (public land) is required to hold a tour operator licence which is applied for through the Nature Parks and approved by DSE.

The Nature Parks recognises that the application of regulations and determinations and the issuing of permits and tour operator licences is an area of interest and concern to the local community. The Nature Parks is embarking on the development of an Access Policy in conjunction with the community and key stakeholders BCSC and DSE. The aim of the policy is to provide an agreed framework and process for assessing the cost-benefit of access to sensitive or potentially dangerous areas of the Nature Parks.

Access Policy criteria may include, but are not limited to, environmental sensitivity, public safety, parking capacity, visitor capacity, minimisation of conflicts with other Nature Parks users and local conditions. The development of the Access Policy is a consultative one and has commenced. The formalisation of a working group is expected by November 2012, with the final policy established by the end of 2013.

Until this process is completed, decisions regarding off-leash dog exercising within the Nature Parks, and access to Observation Point and Summerland cliffs as well as other sensitive areas of the Nature Parks, cannot be finalised. Areas of the Nature Parks where Determinations will be reviewed in the future are indicated within this Plan.


2.5 Structure of the Environment PlanThe Environment Plan is presented in three sections:

•Park-wide issues, opportunities and goals relating to planning, conservation and community partnerships, including actions relating to fauna, flora, pests, heritage conservation and risk management affecting many parts of the Nature Parks

•Goals outlined in the plan are measurable and will be reviewed and tracked throughout the five years of this plan’s implementation

•Key Area Management: applying an ‘Assets Based Framework’ to understand and plan for the many different areas which comprise the Nature Parks at a more detailed level

•Appendices and References.


Park–Wide Planning, Conservation and Community Partnerships

Park-wide Planning, Conservation and Partnerships

3 | Park-wide Planning

3.1 Island-wide Planning StrategiesThe key values of the Nature Parks need to be protected within the framework of an increasingly urbanised and recreation driven environment. Ecosystems can be fragmented over time due to the pressures from development and decreased amounts of open space close to townships for recreation as well as changes in agricultural practices. Increased urbanisation on Phillip Island is perhaps the most persistent form of environmental modification affecting the Nature Parks’ values and can significantly alter the Island’s landscape both visually and in structure. Invasion by pest plant and animals caused by disturbance and the Nature Parks’ high ‘edge to area ratio’ is one of the main contributors to fragmentation of natural areas and ecosystems on the Island.

In order to protect the Nature Parks’ environmental, social and economic values, including the visual landscape, island-wide strategies and strong partnerships between management agencies and the community is essential.

3.1.1 Whole of Island Paths and Tracks, Assets and Access PlanningThe Nature Parks provides a variety of walking opportunities in a compact area. Visitors can enjoy wild ocean beaches, rugged cliffs, heritage landscapes, shady bushland, unspoiled wetlands and diverse wildlife. Major tracks are located at Cape Woolamai, Churchill Island, Berry’s Beach/Pyramid Rock and the Oswin Roberts-Rhyll area. Short walks and informal beach walks are also available.

The current management of infrastructure at beaches and public areas, including car parks, toilets, paths and boardwalks, is inefficient and unclear in terms of the tenure of the responsible agency.

The demand for recreational access to the Nature Parks is increasing. In the context of the projected demand, the Nature Parks will work with BCSC and DSE to develop an Access Policy for all beaches, and develop strategies to improve management during peak periods in line with the Victorian Coastal Strategy 2008.

No. Actions Goals Partners

1 Assist in developing island-wide mapping of existing walking and bicycling trails, identifying gaps and potential linkages across Phillip Island (SP 1.4.3, 2.1.1, 2.2.2)

Mapping completed by June 2013

BCSC, Phillip Island Bicycle Users Group, Community and Environment Advisory Committees, conservation groups, Education Department

2 Assist in investigating the feasibility of walking tracks along the south coast and explore opportunities to link existing tracks on Phillip Island. Take into account the implications of climate variation (SP 1.4.1, 1.4.2)

Investigation completed by December 2013

Residents, farmers, coastal communities, Phillip Island Tourism and Business Association, BCSC, Education Department

3 Help evaluate the viability of increasing access for bicyclists and horse riders on appropriate tracks and areas (SP 1.4.1, 1.4.3)

Investigation completed by December 2013

Phillip Island Bicycle Users Group, Phillip Island Pony Club, BCSC, Environment Advisory Committee, landowners, community, DSE, PV, Education Department

4 Ensure that paths are compatible with Nature Parks values and predicted changes due to climate variation (SP 2.1.1)

Nature Parks values are included in Access Policy and path and track reviews

Environment Advisory Committee, Operations Department

5 Help evaluate the current management of infrastructure at beaches and public areas where BCSC and Nature Parks managed land abut (SP 1.5.1, 2.1.1)

MOU with BCSC regarding the management of adjoining infrastructure completed by June 2017

Operations Department, BCSC, DSE

6 Evaluate future demands for recreational access, in particular to beaches, and develop strategies to improve management during peak periods (SP 2.1.1, 1.5.2)

Consider future demands recreational access in Key Area Plans. Complete by June 2017

BCSC, DSE, WSLSC, PIBC, community, Surfing Victoria, DPI , Education and Operations Departments

7 Develop an ‘Action Procedure for Encroachment’ for areas where private structures such as drains, sheds and lawn areas are intruding into the Nature Parks (SP 2.1.1)

Policy developed by end of June 2013 and enacted by June 2017

DSE


3.1.2 Visual AmenityThe southern and western coastline of Phillip Island is a rugged and varied landscape of state significance that has been shaped by the high seas and winds of Bass Strait to create some of Victoria’s best-known landforms1. The aesthetic quality of the landscape is demonstrated by its attraction for photographers, artists and visitors to the Nature Parks. Most of the southern coastline is recognised by the National Trust of Victoria (L10076) as a landscape of National Significance.

The northern and eastern coastlines of Phillip Island are landscapes of regional significance. These areas are characterised by rolling rural landscapes adjoining low-energy, sandy and mud-flat coastlines on the northern edge at Western Port2.

The built environment can dramatically detract from nature appreciation and landscape values. Wherever possible, planning should promote a continuous landscape without intrusions and avoid visual clutter (including buildings, structures and signage) along highways and key touring routes3.


8 Encourage BCSC to improve scenic amenity for visitors to the Island, for example tree planting, review of signage and undergrounding power lines (SP 2.1.1)

Matters of concern raised at BCSC, Nature Parks liaison meetings

BCSC

9 Complete a landscape assessment as part of any environment impact assessment for infrastructure developments in the Nature Parks (SP 2.1.1)

Landscape assessment completed for infrastructure developments as part of the Nature Parks internal planning process

Administration & Operations

10 Develop a lighting plan for all areas of the Nature Parks to minimise impacts on wildlife and visual amenity

Lighting plan developed by June 2017

Administration and Operations, community, BCSC, VicRoads, WSLSC

3.1.3 Public Land Tour Operator and Activity Provider Licences and Event Permits On 1st July 2011, State Government legislation was amended to establish a consistent legislative framework for the licensing of commercial tour operators and activity providers operating on public land in Victoria.

All commercial tourism or recreational activities within the Nature Parks must be run by a fully qualified and Licensed Tour Operator or Activity Provider.

This licensing legislation does not, however, apply to non-commercial organised group activities, including social, recreational and sporting events. For these activities, the Nature Parks has a permit system to ensure that all visitors have an equal opportunity to use and enjoy the Nature Parks’ public land including beaches, whilst safeguarding natural ecosystems and protecting wildlife, environmental and cultural values. The Nature Parks permit system is consistent with the system used by PV and other committees of management.

The permit system enables the Nature Parks to better manage non-commercial activities occurring on beaches and coastal reserves, and ensures that events are directed to the most suitable places and are run in accordance with public safety standards. Accordingly, permits are required for all organised and group events and activities including: recreational or sporting competitions; recreational and sporting events held by clubs; weddings and ceremonies; filming and photography.


4 | Conservation


11 Ensure that appropriate Tour Operator and Activity Provider Licences are issued to all operators using the Nature Parks

Licenses issued to comply with legislation

DSE, Tour Operators and Activity Providers, Marketing Department

12 Process permit applications for all organised and group activities and events occurring within the Nature Parks

Process permit applications within 14 working days

Schools, clubs and event organisers, Education Department, Marketing Department

13 Assist in the development of an Access Policy for the Nature Parks including determining threshold levels of activity or use an area can sustain (SP 4.2)

Access Policy developed by December 2013

BCSC, DSE, Community and Environment Advisory Committees, Research Department

4.1 Climate VariationGlobal warming and resultant climate variation has emerged as a key issue for biodiversity and environmental management throughout the world. Loss of terrestrial habitat caused by anthropogenic emissions of greenhouse gases has been formally listed as an endangering process under the EPBC Act. Widely held views are that climate variation will cause sea-level rise, decreased rainfall and humidity, increased air temperature, changes in sea-surface temperature, winds, the southern oscillation index and ocean acidification, all of which will impact negatively on the Nature Parks.

Coastal infrastructure and beach access, such as staircases and boardwalks, may be at risk in the long term from increased frequency and magnitude of storms and sea level rise. Other likely impacts of climate variation on the Nature Parks include an increase in invasive species problems, potential loss of some beaches, and loss of Indigenous cultural heritage such as middens4.

Some areas of the Nature Parks are particularly vulnerable to sea level rise, including the mangroves and saltmarshes of Rhyll Inlet and along the Western Port shoreline of Phillip Island. Beaches along the southern coastline may also be eroded and ‘lost’ as the Nature Parks is very narrow in these locations and there is no space for the coast to retreat due to coastal development. Rocky shorelines have been identified as particularly vulnerable to climate variation as they have a high number of endemic species5. Climate variation is likely to result in a southward movement of some marine species, and changes in community composition and spawning times6.

Parts of the landscape are changing in ways that are of concern. The Nature Parks will consult with relevant stakeholders to decide on monitoring requirements, and whether protection, rehabilitation or adaptation measures are feasible. If cost effective, appropriate actions will be implemented.


14 Assist with reviewing the predictions and implications of climate variation on the Nature Parks’ values annually (SP 2.1.1, 2.1.2)

Annual synopsis prepared for Board Research and Operations Departments, BCSC, DSE

15 Apply the precautionary principle to planning and management decision-making associated with possible climate variation impacts (SP 2.1.1, 2.1.2)

Assessment completed for each infrastructure plan

Operations Department

16 Prioritise the replacement of marram grass and sea wheat-grass on coastal beaches (e.g. Summerland Bay) with native grass species to improve Little Penguin and Hooded Plover access (SP 2.1.2)

Establish photo points for each key area by June 2013 and re-survey bi-annually in winter and summer to monitor the effects of weed control. Adapt management as needed.

Community groups, Coastcare, BCSC, Research Department


17 Monitor the quality of vegetation in Hooded Plover, penguin and shearwater habitat (SP 2.1.2)

No deterioration in quality of vegetation. Monitor by establishing vegetation quality survey quadrats in each key area by June 2017 and re-survey every 3 to 5 years.

Research Department, contractors

18 Assist with assessing the potential to create buffer zones, protecting sensitive areas such as mangroves and saltmarsh from the impacts of climate variation (SP 2.1.1, 2.1.2, 2.1.3)

Opportunities to work with key stakeholders to create buffer zones explored

DSE, BCSC, Trust for Nature, Research Department

19 Help monitor the intertidal fauna of the rocky shores within the Nature Parks

Monitoring program set up by June 2014 and sampled annually

Education Department, DSE, volunteers

4.2 Whole of Island Biodiversity ManagementIn 2005, DSE prepared a ‘Landscape Plan for the Phillip Island Zone’, which is one of 15 zones within the Gippsland Plain Bioregion. Phillip Island retains around 23 per cent of the original extent of native vegetation. This vegetation exists largely around the perimeter of the Island, in public ownership. The vegetation in private ownership is nearly all endangered and is fragmented and patchy - 16 ecological vegetation classes and approximately 23 flora and 61 fauna species are considered to be of conservation concern.


20 Assist in assessing funding options for an updated island-wide flora and fauna strategy (SP 2.1.1, 2.2)

Assessment completed by June 2014

BCSC, community, landowners, farmers, government agencies, Trust for Nature, PWCMA, Landcare, WPB

21 Assist in moving to an integrated coastal management strategy for the Western Port region by undertaking actions relevant to the Nature Parks within the Port Phillip and Western Port Regional Catchment Strategy 2012-18 (when available) (SP 2.1.1, 2.2)

Actions relevant to the Nature Parks undertaken

PPWPCMA, WPB

22 Assist in exploring management strategies for the increased populations of mammals such as Swamp Wallabies and native birds including Little Ravens and Cape Barren Geese (SP 2.2)


Research Department, BCSC, DPI, DSE, landowners, Landcare, and community

4.3 Native Flora and FaunaThe care and management of native flora and fauna is the core conservation goal of the Nature Parks. Phillip Island retains around 23 per cent of the original extent of native vegetation and most of this is within the Nature Parks8. Ten Victorian Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVC’s)9 found on the Island are considered endangered, three vulnerable and three severely depleted. There are records for 23 rare or threatened native flora (VROT) species on Phillip Island. These important plant communities require special management for their protection and enhancement.

Lists of flora and fauna found within the Nature Parks are available on our web site www.penguins.org.au

The Nature Parks’ role in fauna and flora conservation includes seeking to understand more about the needs of native species, identifying management practices to optimise the size and spread of populations, and monitoring changes in populations and habitats.


Nine wetlands occur within the Nature Parks and Phillip Island is included in the Western Port listing under the Directory of Nationally Important Wetlands (federal). Western Port is also a Ramsar wetland of international significance and parts of the Nature Parks are within the site.

Phillip Island is a BirdLife International Important Bird Area (IBA) with globally significant bird populations of Little Penguins, Short-tailed Shearwaters, Hooded Plovers and Pacific Gulls. IBA’s are priority areas for bird conservation.

International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) maintains a ‘Red List of Threatened Species™’. IUCN has listed within this data book many species found within or surrounding Phillip Island including the Eastern Curlew (Vulnerable), Fairy Tern (Vulnerable), Hooded Plover (Near Threatened), Orange-bellied Parrot (Critically Endangered), Swift Parrot, (Critically Endangered) and Shy Albatross (Near Threatened).

The Nature Parks will work with partner organisations towards the re-introduction of key native species to restore the biodiversity of Phillip Island nearer to pre-European levels. There are a number of threats to biodiversity on Phillip Island and within the Nature Parks, in particular:

•Native vegetation and habitat loss or degradation – due to clearing for urban development / agriculture / fire prevention / disease / climate variation

•Native vegetation and habitat fragmentation – due to clearing / potential eucalypt dieback / disease •Native vegetation and habitat quality decline – due to lack of or inappropriate management e.g. salinity•Urban / human disturbance – residential development, cats and dogs, recreational activity pressure, encroachment• Inappropriate fire management•Pest animals – foxes, rabbits, hares, feral cats, invertebrates and rodents•Pest weeds and garden escapees - loss and degradation of native plant and animal habitat by invasion of escaped

garden plants has been listed as a threatening process under the EPBC Act.


23 Participate in the development of integrated management plans for all key areas of the Nature Parks (SP 1.3.1, 2.1.1, 2.1.2)

Plans completed by June 2017 Operations, Administration and Research Departments, BCSC, DSE, DPI, landowners, contractors, community

24 Develop a template for plans for major threats and management issues such as fire, weeds and feral animals and develop for each key area (SP 1.3.1, 2.1.1, 2.1.2, 2.2.3, 2.2.4)

Templates completed by June 2017 Research Department

25 Continue to assess opportunities for the Crown to acquire areas with environmentally significant EVCs or former Little Penguin or Short-tailed Shearwater colonies10 (SP 2.1.1, 2.1.3)

Opportunities to work with key stakeholders explored as they arise

DSE, BCSC, Trust for Nature

26 Assist with assessing the potential to create buffer zones, protecting sensitive areas from the impacts of climate variation or population pressures (SP 2.1.1, 2.1.2, 2.1.3)


DSE, BCSC, Trust for Nature

27 Apply the Nature Parks’ expert coastal and marine knowledge to work with appropriate stakeholders to ensure environmental risks, including hydrology and soil erosion, are managed and impacts are minimised during local and regional developments (SP 2.1.1, 2.1.6)

Opportunities to work with key stakeholders identified and explored

Research Department, BCSC, DSE, PV, WPB, Port of Hastings


28 Promote the use of indigenous plant species and where possible use locally sourced species in revegetation works (SP 2.1.1, 2.1.2)

80 per cent of indigenous plant seed per annum sourced locally

BCSC, DSE, DPI, landowners, community, Landcare, BMBB

29 Manage Fauna and Flora Guarantee Act 1988 and EPBC listed species, communities and potentially threatening processes according to approved plans (SP 2.1.1, 2.1.2)

Protective measures included in the annual Environment Business Plan

BCSC, DSE, landowners, Melbourne Water, Westernport Water, volunteers, WPB

30 Facilitate volunteer involvement with the Environment Department (SP 2.1.1, 4.3.2)

Achieve 1000 volunteer days per annum (including 200 on the Summerland Peninsula)

Coastcare and volunteers

31 Encourage wildlife corridors to link or expand patches of habitat across the Island, particularly from the Summerland Peninsula to Rhyll (SP 2.1.1, 2.1.2)


Landcare, BCSC, landowners, VicRoads

32 Help protect and revegetate EVC remnants along creek lines and wetlands within the Nature Parks (SP 2.1.1, 1.3.5, 2.1.1, 2.1.2)

Achieve 100 person days per annum for wetland protection and revegetation (included above)

Melbourne Water, BCSC, Landcare, landowners, volunteers

33 Install nest boxes in areas where there are insufficient hollows or nesting sites for small mammals, such as bats and birds, or where hollows are removed for visitor protection (SP 2.6.2)

All hollows removed for visitor protection replaced by nest boxes

Education Department, volunteers

4.3.1 Little PenguinsThe world famous Penguin Parade is the Nature Parks’ and the State of Victoria’s major natural wildlife attraction. Little Penguin colonies at the Summerland Peninsula support a breeding population of an estimated 32,000 adult penguins - around 20 per cent of the estimated total breeding population of Little Penguins in Victoria.

The Penguin Parade provides the most accessible and reliable Little Penguin viewing in Australia. Little Penguin viewing occurs along the southern coast of Australia, Tasmania and in New Zealand, but on a much smaller scale than at the Penguin Parade. The conservation of the Little Penguin population on the Summerland Peninsula is one of the most critical tasks for the Nature Parks.


34 Assist with the development of a lighting plan for the Penguin Parade within the Summerland Master Plan to reduce light spill into habitat areas at night

Lighting plan completed by June 2014

Research, Operations and Finance Departments, contractors

35 Facilitate volunteer involvement in re-vegetation programs at the Penguin Parade and Summerland Peninsula (SP 2.1.1, 4.3.2)

Achieve 200 volunteer hours per annum on the Summerland Peninsula

Volunteers

36 Help ensure the protection of marine areas and resources used by seabirds and shorebirds, particularly Little Penguins (SP 2.1.1, 2.1.6, 2.3.3)


Research Department, DSE, PV, WPB, conservation groups


4.3.2 Short-tailed Shearwaters Short-tailed Shearwaters (also known as mutton birds) undertake an amazing annual migration leaving Phillip Island in April/May each year to fly to feeding grounds in the Bering Straits, Alaska, then to return to breed on Phillip Island in late September. Short-tailed Shearwaters are listed in Governmental agreements for the protection of migratory species. Approximately one million shearwaters breed within the Nature Parks.

The largest colony is located at Cape Woolamai with other smaller colonies found along the south coast and on the northwest coast of Phillip Island. Many colonies are threatened by problems associated with proximity to rural and urban land. Many juvenile shearwater deaths are recorded due to birds colliding with cars on Phillip Island roads and on the San Remo Bridge, as the young birds appear to be attracted to road lighting.

Phillip Island contains approximately eight per cent of the world’s total population of Short-tailed Shearwaters, and is critical to their breeding success.


37 Work with the community to gain support for shearwater protection including the Shearwater Rescue Program (SP 2.3.3)

Shearwater Protection Program continues – night and early morning patrols from 16th April to 5th May

BCSC, DSE, PV, VicRoads, SP AusNet, landowners, volunteers, Research and Education Departments

38 Work with other statutory agencies and volunteers to minimise risks to Short-tailed Shearwaters including collisions with power lines, buildings, cars, trampling of burrows and negative interactions with dogs and cats (SP 2.3.3)


BCSC, DSE, VicRoads, SP AusNet, landowners, volunteers, Research and Education Departments

39 Promote covenants and overlays on Short-tailed Shearwater habitat on private land for ongoing protection (SP 2.3.3)


BCSC, DSE, Trust for Nature

4.3.3 Hooded PloversKey areas of Phillip Island provide critical habitat for the Hooded Plover, which is listed as vulnerable in Victoria11, and listed under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee and the EPBC Acts.

Risks to Hooded Plovers include the high rate of egg loss due to predation by foxes, dogs and native birds. Recreational dog activities can cause abandonment of nests, and also place pressure on nesting birds and chicks prior to fledging.


41 Monitor the population of Hooded Plovers on Phillip Island by island-wide counts (SP 1.3.6, 1.3.7)

Four counts per annum Volunteers, BirdLife Bass Coast and Hooded Plover Watch volunteers, Research Department

42 Help reinvigorate and facilitate the Hooded Plover Watch volunteer program and protection of nests (SP 2.1.1, 4.3.2)

Achieve a five year average of eight chicks fledged per annum on Phillip Island

BirdLife Bass Coast and Hooded Plover Watch volunteers, BCSC, DSE, WPB

43 Assist with the creation of a management strategy for the protection of the Hooded Plovers and investigate opportunities to enhance conservation efforts through an artificial breeding and re-introduction program (SP 1.3.6, 1.3.7, 2.1.1, 2.1.4)

Management strategy completed for each key area by June 2017

BCSC, DSE, PV, BirdLife Australia, Research Department, volunteers, WPB, Healesville Sanctuary


4.3.4 Other BirdsPhillip Island supports a moderately diverse bird fauna that is important regionally as a contributor to biodiversity in the Western Port region. Twelve species are listed by the IUCN, 120 species are listed under the EPBC Act and 28 under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act including the endangered Little Tern, Orange-bellied Parrot and Swift Parrot, and the vulnerable Hooded Plover and Fairy Tern. Thirty nine of these species are listed under JAMBA, CAMBA or ROKAMBA. Birds of prey are also common, and Phillip Island is a staging point for a number of bird species that migrate across Bass Strait including the Swamp Harrier, Swift Parrot, Flame Robin and Silvereye.

The beaches and mudflats within and around the Nature Parks support internationally significant populations of waterbirds including migratory waders (shorebirds), notably at Rhyll Inlet, Swan Bay, and parts of Churchill Island Marine National Park.


44 Provide logistical support for continued monitoring of shorebirds and terns (SP 2.1.1, 2.1.2, 1.3.5, 2.6.2)

Minimum of five activities supported per annum

BirdLife Bass Coast, Victorian Wader Study Group, BirdLife Australia, Australasian Wader Studies Group, WPB

45 Ensure shorebird feeding and roosting areas remain secluded and undeveloped (SP 1.3.5, 2.1.1, 2.6.2)

Opportunities to work with key stakeholders identified and ensure bird feeding and roosting sites remain undisturbed

BCSC, PV, DSE

46 Support monitoring programs for IUCN listed species by BirdLife Australia and include protection and habitat enhancement measures and signage in the key area plans (SP 2.6.2)

Participate in a minimum of two counts per annum

BirdLife Australia

47 Preserve old trees that have, or may develop, nesting hollows for parrots and other species (SP 2.6.2)

Preserve trees within the Nature Parks whenever possible. Opportunities to work with key stakeholders identified

Community

4.3.5 Australian Fur SealsThe breeding colony of 25,000 to 30,000 Australian Fur Seals at Seal and Black Rocks is one of the two largest colonies for this species and represents 25 per cent of the species’ total population.

Australian Fur Seal populations in Bass Strait are increasing, primarily due to recovery from over-exploitation in the 1800s, ongoing hunting in the early 1900s, and then designation as a protected species in 1975. Australian Fur Seals interact frequently with fisheries in south-eastern Australia. They harvest from the same ecosystems as the fisheries, including ecosystems relied on by Little Penguins. An additional issue for the seals is entanglement in fishing gear and other non-biodegradable materials at sea. Injury and fatality to vertebrate marine life caused by ingestion of, or entanglement in, harmful marine debris has been listed as an endangering process under the EPBC Act.


48 Assist with the removal of discarded fishing gear from seals and within seal habitat

Assist Research Department as needed

Research Department

4.3.6 BatsPhillip Island is home to a suite of native, insectivorous forest bats, most of which are common in forests across Victoria. The bats are small, weighing 4-10 grams, and require a healthy forest environment to provide a diversity of insect prey and a range of roost sites. Forest bats roost mostly in dead trees and dead branches in live trees. Up to 120 bats can occupy a single roost.

Bats may be the most numerous native mammal fauna on Phillip Island; over 1000 forest bats forage in the forests of the KCC alone.



49 Protect remnant vegetation and older growth trees, and dead limbs in trees and dead trees, as prime bat habitat within the Nature Parks (SP 2.1.1)

Preserve trees within the Nature Parks whenever possible. Opportunities to work with key stakeholders identified

Community

4.3.7 Reptiles and AmphibiansFourteen species of reptiles and amphibians are found within the Nature Parks, far fewer than in the wider Western Port Region - across which a total of 36 species have been found - possibly due to past extinctions or the impact of European settlement.

Threats to the Nature Parks’ amphibian and reptile populations include fragmentation of habitat, weed invasion, fire, introduced predators, inappropriate herbicide application and disturbance by humans.


50 Control introduced grasses such as Phalaris aquatica on the Summerland Peninsula as it is unsuitable for most reptiles

20% reduction of Phalaris aquatica over five years

Contractors, VicRoads, BCSC

51 Minimise the adverse effects of herbicides on amphibians in the vicinity of water bodies (SP 2.1.1, 2.6.1, 2.6.2)

Low environmental impact taken into consideration when assessing herbicides for use in wetland areas and when assessing tenders for weed spraying contractors

Contractors, BCSC, VicRoads

52 Log opportunistic rare, threatened or unusual wildlife sightings onto the Atlas of Victorian Wildlife

All sightings logged when found DSE

4.3.8 Freshwater Fish and Macro-invertebratesHistorical fish survey data for Phillip Island12 has shown 15 native freshwater species, 22 estuarine species and six exotic species of fish have been collected in the waterways of the Island since record keeping commenced. Only three species of fish, Common Galaxias (Galaxias maculates), Spotted Galaxias (G. truttaceus) and Short-finned Eel (Anguilla australis), were found in a survey conducted between 2000 and 2002. No exotic or introduced fish species were recorded.13

Survey work was undertaken in 2001-2002 on the macro-invertebrates of the nine freshwater wetlands or waterways on Phillip Island. The number of taxa recorded over the seasons was between 40 and 60 species. Newhaven and Rhyll Swamps had reduced colonisation of species thought to be due to high tannin levels.14

Values requiring protection for macro-invertebrates include diversity of biota, water quality and habitat condition.


53 Ensure regular monitoring of surface and ground water as per the Former Rhyll Landfill Site Departure Plan

Meet the requirements of the Departure Plan

EPA, BCSC, Administration and Finance Departments, DSE

54 Continue to monitor water quality in the Nature Parks wetlands through Melbourne Water’s Water-Watch program (SP 2.1.1)

Monitoring of six sites monthly and nine bi-monthly

Melbourne Water

4.3.9 KoalasKoalas were first introduced to Phillip Island in the late 1800s with resident populations establishing by the 1920s. During the mid-20th century their population was high enough to justify the relocation of more than 3,000 koalas from Phillip Island. However, free-ranging koalas are now uncommon on Phillip Island due to the combined effects of Chlamydia infection, road kill, dog predation and habitat destruction.


A protected koala population is maintained at the Koala Conservation Centre (KCC). The Centre provides an opportunity for viewing koalas in their natural habitat as well as close koala viewing for visitors on two woodland boardwalks. A new visitor centre was opened in December 2009 and provides interpretation of the koala story on Phillip Island and in Victoria.


55 Continue to monitor the koala population in Nature Parks woodlands, on Phillip Island and in the KCC

Annual island-wide koala count FOK, volunteers

56 Commission a Koala Management Plan for the management of koalas at the KCC

Plan completed by June 2014 Operations, Finance and Research Departments, DSE, DPI, FOK, contractors

4.3.10 Swamp WallabiesSwamp Wallabies are native to Phillip Island. Early settlers noted their presence and they were recognised as common through to the 1930s and 40s. Thereafter numbers were severely reduced, possibly due to hunting pressure, such that from the 1960s to the 1980s wallabies were infrequently seen across much of Phillip Island. Through this time, however, they remained numerous over Cape Woolamai and possibly other sites. During the 1990s, the wallabies were recognised to be dispersing across Phillip Island and increasing in numbers within several bushland areas.

Population management concerns with Swamp Wallabies on Phillip Island include high tourism interest, collisions with road traffic, browsing on revegetation sites and grazing on agricultural land. Swamp Wallabies are primarily browsers, i.e. feed on shrubs, but will also graze, i.e. eat grasses, including introduced pasture and weeds. The actual diet of Swamp Wallabies on Phillip Island is unknown.


57 Assist with Swamp Wallaby research and population estimates within the Nature Parks (SP 2.2.4)

Research program commenced by Nature Parks Research Department by June 2013

Research Department, universities

58 Help promote the concept of ‘Living with Wildlife’ on Phillip Island (SP 2.2.4)

One ‘Living with Wildlife’ information session held per annum

DSE, VicRoads, DPI, BCSC, Landcare

4.3.11 Cape Barren GeeseCape Barren Geese are native to Phillip Island. During early European settlement of Australia they were hunted to near extinction. Numbers remained low through to about the 1980s when a management strategy was implemented, including breeding and release programs. As a result, numbers of Cape Barren Geese have increased throughout their range.

Population management concerns with Cape Barren Geese include high tourism interest, collisions with road traffic and grazing and spoilage of agricultural land.


59 Assist BirdLife Bass Coast to monitor the numbers of Cape Barren Geese across Phillip Island (SP 2.2.4)

Counts completed every second year

BirdLife Bass Coast

60 Help promote the concept of ‘Living with Wildlife’ on the Island (SP 2.2.4)


DSE, VicRoads, DPI, BCSC, Landcare


4.4 Management of Threats to Flora and FaunaThe Nature Parks focuses heavily on protection of its key natural values through active management programs. Ongoing protection and regulation measures must be applied to ensure that pest plants and animals are controlled or eradicated, and that the dangers posed by fire, pollutants or people are moderated and rapidly responded to in case of emergency.

With increasing recreational use of the Nature Parks comes an increased risk to natural values. Permits and infrastructure are used to mitigate effects where possible. Regulations are applied to access, times and modes of recreation for the protection of Nature Parks values. Due to the semi-urban tenure of Phillip Island, domestic animals are a significant issue. The dramatic growth in land development on the Island over the past decade has increased the Nature Parks’ responsibility towards providing advice and expertise towards local planning issues and amendments on adjoining and nearby land for protection of core values.

There is a range of issues that affect the conservation and management of the Nature Parks’ fauna. While many of these issues are within the control of the Nature Parks, the migratory nature and home ranges of much of the fauna means that management will need to take into account factors outside Nature Parks boundaries.

Issues inside the Nature Parks include the impacts of introduced predators, especially on Little Penguins, Hooded Plovers and other seabird colonies; fire prevention in bird colonies and rare plant communities; the impacts of human access on the welfare of fauna, especially disturbance at breeding colonies and nesting sites and at shorebird roosting and feeding sites.

Factors outside the Nature Parks include road kills of native mammals and birds, and injury and death of birds, mostly young shearwaters and terns, which strike overhead power-lines, become entangled in barbed wire fences or are hit by motor vehicles. Adjacent land use can cause habitat degradation within the Nature Parks, and inappropriate development can degrade water catchments, which support aquatic and terrestrial flora and fauna.

Aircraft can cause disturbance to wildlife and impact on visitor enjoyment and amenity. Offshore impacts, such as oil spills or over-fishing of food species, can have a significant impact on marine life and the food chain. Introduction of exotic marine plants and animals and viruses, exotic plants and seeds, and soil pathogens and fungus all pose external threats to the habitat and wildlife of the Nature Parks.


61 Seek partnerships to co-ordinate pest animal and plant programs throughout Phillip Island (SP 2.2.1)

Develop an island-wide pest plant and animals plan by June 2017

DPI, DSE, BCSC, Melbourne Water, Westernport Water, Southern Rural Water, PPWPCMA, landowners, Landcare

62 Where appropriate, work with adjoining landowners to maintain the boundary fencing protecting wildlife and habitat

No incursions of farm animals into the Nature Parks

Landowners, BCSC, DSE

4.4.1 Weeds and Introduced PlantsWeeds are one of the most significant threats to all habitats within the Nature Parks. Environmental weeds, which can be garden escapes, non-indigenous plantings or invasive native plants outside their natural range, are also a concern in many parts of the Nature Parks.

Four nationally significant weeds and 24 declared noxious weeds threaten the Nature Parks, for which biological control agents are available. Biological and manual weed control methods will be preferred and chemical control will be used when the ecological and economic benefits outweigh any potential negative ecological impacts.

Research into the ecology and methods of dispersal of individual species will help improve the efficiency of weed control programs. To date the impacts of feral animals on weed distribution and abundance are largely unquantified.

Proposals for developments both within the Nature Parks, such as new infrastructure, and outside the Nature Parks, such as housing and commercial developments, may pose significant risks for the introduction of weeds.

Through working with the community and other stakeholders, the Nature Parks’ values will be protected by strategic management of weeds, prevention of invasion by new species, and increased understanding of weed management issues among the community, neighbours and visitors.



63 Revise the Nature Parks Weed Management Plan

Revised plan completed by December 2013

DSE, BCSC, Landcare, landowners

64 Continue to map the distribution of weeds, preparing weed risk assessments using GIS. As a priority, monitor weeds distribution at the interface with urban areas, visitor sites, roadsides and coastal areas (SP 2.1.1)

50 hours of weed mapping per annum

BCSC, volunteers, DSE, DPI, Landcare

65 Provide support to local organisations in identifying higher quality native vegetation for strategic weed control and safely implementing weed management programs (SP 2.6.1, 2.6.2)

Information provided on the Nature Parks web page and updated annually. Information made available at Nature Parks community open day

Coastcare, community groups, Landcare

66 Assist to increase knowledge in the community about weed management to minimise the spread of weeds and work in partnership with the Nature Parks’ research team to monitor weed control success and undertake experimental trials to enhance weed control (SP 2.6.1, 2.6.2)

Trials conducted as needs are identified. Information session held on new weeds as they are identified

Landcare, WPB, BCSC, Research Department

4.4.2 Feral and Domestic AnimalsFeral animals can damage the cultural and natural values of Phillip Island. They may impact on flora and fauna populations and cause erosion and the spread of weeds. Introduced birds, foxes, rabbits, hares, rats, dogs, feral cats, fish, European bees, Pacific Oysters and other pests have been recorded within the Nature Parks. There are also risks that species such as pigs, deer or ferrets could be released within the Nature Parks and become pests. Foxes, rabbits, hares, feral cats and dogs are regarded as the greatest threat to park values. The Nature Parks will become a designated control zone for the purposes of the Domestic Animals Act 1994.

The Nature Parks’ regulations and control programs have been developed and implemented in consultation with BCSC, Landcare, farmers and the wider community and they can minimise the adverse effects of domestic and feral animals on the natural and cultural values of the Nature Parks, and on human safety. To ensure that effective control programs are in place, there is a need for a strategic integrated island-wide approach. Control programs need to consider:

•How the priority of protecting the Nature Parks’ and the Island’s natural and cultural values can be achieved •The range of habitats, differing sensitivities to disturbance, susceptibility to weed invasion, and feral animal

populations in adjoining areas•What levels of damage or disturbance caused by feral and domestic animals are seen as unacceptable to the Nature

Parks and the wider community.

It is important to provide visitors and the local community with adequate information prior to their visits to the Nature Parks about the potential impacts of introduced animals on environmental and social values.


67 Commission an external review of the implementation of the current Phillip Island Nature Parks Fox Eradication Plan and develop an integrated pest management plan for major feral animal species within the Nature Parks

Review and plan completed by June 2013

Finance, Research Departments, Consultants


68 Commission an island-wide integrated management plan for vermin and feral animals and continue to move towards a fox –free island (SP 2.2.3)

Plan completed by June 2014 DPI, DSE, BCSC, Landcare, farmers, community

69 Develop contingency plans for managing introductions of particularly high risk feral animal species such as ferrets and pigs (SP 2.1.1, 2.2.3)

Plan completed by June 2014 DSE, DPI, BCSC

70 Remain informed about national research into the development of pest animal control methods (SP 2.1.2)

One conference attended per annum

71 Ensure appropriate information is made available to the Nature Parks’ visitors regarding the impacts of feral and domestic animals on Nature Parks values and the preferred management actions (SP 2.2.3)

Information provided on Nature Parks web page and updated annually. Information made available at Nature Parks community open day – once per annum.

Marketing, Research and Education Departments, BCSC, Landcare

72 Ensure information is available to contractors regarding the entry of plant, animal and soil material into the Nature Parks (SP 2.6.1)

Contracts stipulate environmental best practise

Operations and Finance Departments

73 Continue to prohibit dogs on Nature Parks land where they are currently prohibited

Nature Parks regulations and determinations relating to dogs are available on the BCSC and Nature Parks web sites. Brochures are easily available. Annual advertisement on dog restrictions in local paper

DSE, BCSC

74 Assist in developing a comprehensive plan for dog exercise areas on Phillip Island, including an assessment of options for off-leash dog parks and off-leash beach areas (SP 2.6.3)

Plan completed by December 2013 BCSC, PV, DSE, community,

75 Advocate for the containment and de-sexing of cats, particularly adjacent to critical habitat areas (SP 2.6.3)

Undertake one joint activity per annum with BCSC to promote cat de-sexing, safety and containment

BCSC, community

76 Ensure control of feral and domestic animals through the Wildlife Act 1975 and the Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994 (SP 2.6.3)

Continue to follow the control methods outlined in the Acts. Make submissions when these Acts are reviewed

BCSC, DSE

77 Investigate if Nature Parks enforcement officers can be authorised under the Domestic Animals Act 1994 (SP 2.6.3)

Complete by December 2012 At least 17 Environment rangers qualified to enforce Nature Parks regulations

BCSC, DSE, DPI

78 Provide adequate trained staff resources to enforce dog regulations throughout the Nature Parks (SP 2.6.3)

At least 17 Environment rangers qualified to enforce Nature Parks regulations

BCSC, DPI


79 Review access for horse recreation activities within the Nature Parks. (SP 1.4.3)

Review completed by December 2013

Phillip Island Pony Club, BCSC, DSE, PV, conservation groups

80 Continue to prohibit European bee hives within the Nature Parks and control wild hives, especially where they present health and safety risks to people or wildlife

Hives of wild European bees removed or controlled within seven days

NA

81 Continue mosquito control in conjunction with BCSC

Undertake mosquito control when requested by BCSC

BCSC

4.4.3 Viruses, Bacteria and FungiThe introduction of new non-native viruses, bacteria and fungi can damage the social and environmental values of Phillip Island. They may impact on wildlife welfare and kill or reduce the productivity of plant species.

VirusesThe risk of disease occurring in the local fish population, resulting in a die off of the Little Penguin’s main food source, is one of the key threats to Phillip Island’s penguins. In 1995 and 1998 a previously unknown Pilchard Herpes-virus (PHV) killed millions of pilchards. This led to the loss of about 25 per cent of the Little Penguin population at Phillip Island due to starvation of adults and low rates of chick production.

Some introduced species such as racing pigeons or rock doves could introduce diseases such as Paramyxovirus (PMV1) to native birds. In addition some migratory species such as shorebirds could carry viruses such as Avian Flu. The highly pathogenic H5N1 avian flu virus has not been detected in shorebirds in Australia to date despite extensive testing by health authorities.

Rabbit calicivirus and myxomatosis are present in the feral rabbit populations on Phillip Island and are host select. The viruses have had a substantial effect on the feral rabbit population when they were first introduced, but over time rabbits have become largely immune with only 40 per cent of the wild population not being susceptible to myxomatosis.

BacteriaMycobacterium ulcerans (Bairnsdale ulcer), which causes ulcers on the skin, is known to be present in the region’s soil, and has been found in koalas and possums on Phillip Island, as well as occurring among the human population.

Diseases such as Psittacosis can be found in caged birds and have occasionally been found in parrots bought to the Nature Parks Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. Other diseases such as Listeriosis and Salmonellosis can also occur.

FungiThe fungus Uredo rangelii (myrtle rust) has been found on the Mornington Peninsula and 17 other sites in Victoria (by 2012). The fungus attacks members of the Myrtaceae plant family. Myrtle rust is easily dispersed and as such represents a significant threat to Phillip Island’s ecology.

The soil borne fungus Phytophthora cinnamomi has not been recorded on Phillip Island but presents a significant risk to native vegetation. Many Australian native plant species, including threatened species, are susceptible. The fungus is present at many local sites off Phillip Island and could easily be imported via infected gravel or plant material, contaminated vehicles, bicycles or footwear. Attempts to eradicate P. cinnamomi from infected areas within mainland Australia have so far failed.

The fungus Armillaria luteobubalina is a very active parasite, spreading underground from infected trees by dark, string-like rhizomorphs which invade the roots of adjacent trees. The fungus causes root rot in a wide variety of Australian native and ornamental plants and has been diagnosed at the KCC. The fungus can be introduced to new areas through the transport of infected plants, roots or mulches. At present there is no simple method for controlling A. luteobubalina.

Through Nature Parks regulations and control programs developed and implemented in consultation with BCSC, Landcare, farmers and the wider community, the adverse effects of new and/or non-native insects, viruses, bacteria and fungi on the natural and cultural values of the Nature Parks, and on human safety, will be minimised.



82 Ensure third party operators have procedures for preventing the spread of fungus infections (SP 2.6.1)

Contracts stipulate environmental best practice including quarantine hygiene and treatment with the chemical phosphate

Operations and Finance Departments, Contractors

83 Foster relationships with key agencies in emergency planning on disease risks to wildlife and public safety (SP 2.1.2)

One staff member is on the BCSC EMP team.All reportable disease outbreaks reported to DPI within 48 hours

DPI, DSE, BCSC, CFA

84 Ensure the guidelines for prevention of transmission of Mycobacterium ulcerans are implemented (SP 2.1.2)

All Environment staff trained in disease identification and personal protection

DPI, Department of Health, Human Resources Department

85 Assist DPI with monitoring waders for Avian Influenza in areas such as Observation Point (SP 2.1.2)

Participate in DPI monitoring programs when requested

DPI, universities

86 Participate in the review of bicycle usage as part of the island-wide bicycle strategy to highlight the potential spread of fungi on footwear, bicycles etc. (SP 1.4, 2.1.2, 2.1.5)


BCSC, DSE, community

87 Plants or seeds may only be brought into the Nature Parks to maintain genetic viability or if there is no suitable stock within the Nature Parks (SP 2.1.2)

Quality control is undertaken to ensure low risk of pathogens and “unwanted” genetic material entering the Nature Parks

BMBB, farmers, landowners

4.5 Habitat Protection and Risk Management4.5.1 FireThe early fire history for Phillip Island has not been accurately recorded. It is thought the last major wild fires on the Island were in the 1920s. Pollen studies have shown that fires in some areas of the Nature Parks were more frequent in pre-European times15. Since the 1920s the occurrence of a wildfire has been relatively low due to the large areas of grazing land, effective fuel reduction programs and hazard management.

Fire can have a devastating short and long term effect on colonial nesting species such as Little Penguins and Short-tailed Shearwaters due to the synchronicity of breeding events. Even cool burns in winter can decrease burrow density in the long term due to increased soil instability16.

Priorities for fire management have been identified in the ‘Phillip Island Nature Parks Fire Management Plan’ and the annual Fire Operation Plans. This includes visitor and community safety, protection of life and property and the protection of wildlife habitat. In particular, this includes Little Penguin and Short-tailed Shearwater colonies and koala habitat.

Under the Country Fire Authority Act 1958 the Nature Parks must take all steps practicable, including preventative burning, to prevent the occurrence of fires, and minimise the danger of the spread of fires, on and from land vested under its management, including any roads.


88 Continue liaison and joint activities with the BCSC, DSE and the CFA regarding fire safety, and develop a Partnership Agreement between the Nature Parks and DSE (SP 2.1.2)

Nature Parks three year Ecological and Wildlife Burn Plan objectives included in the BCSC Municipal Fire Plan and revised every three years. Environment staff member sits on the BCSC MFPC

BCSC, CFA, DSE, PV


89 Ensure the assessment of fire management strategies is included in contracts for Vegetation Management Plans (SP 2.1.2)

All assessments completed by June 2017

Administration Department

90 Complete fuel reduction plans and maintain documentation of fuel reduction methods, fuel assessments, weather conditions and outcomes

Burn plans completed for each fuel reduction or ecological burn

DSE, BCSC, CFA

91 Liaise with adjoining landholders who may be affected by particular fire management operations

All neighbours and agencies identified in burn plans are contacted before burning takes place

Landholders, BCSC, VicFire, CFA

92 Monitor fire and its effects on vegetation and wildlife (SP 2.1.2)

Incorporate any lessons learnt in subsequent burn programs

DSE, BCSC, CFA

93 Ensure that Environment field staff are trained in fire response through DSE and that equipment, PPE and machinery are maintained to OHS standards.

Refresher training undertaken every five years, annual exercises completed

DSE, Human Resources Department

4.5.2 Marine PollutionMarine pollution is a significant and real threat to natural values. Contamination of Little Penguins and other wildlife by oil or oily substances at sea or coming ashore is one of the major risks to the colony. These pollutants are terminal for penguins and other fauna if left untreated.

DSE is the designated wildlife response agency under the ‘Victorian Marine Pollution Contingency Plan’. The Nature Parks maintains a store of equipment to respond to shoreline clean up as well as oiled wildlife. The Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre has specialised equipment to clean and rehabilitate oiled seabirds.


94 Maintain an MOU between the Nature Parks and DSE regarding the treatment of oiled marine birds at the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre and ongoing training of DSE, PV, Nature Parks staff and volunteers in the collection and treatment of oiled wildlife, particularly Little Penguins (SP 3.4.3, 5.2.4)

Agreed targets in MOU met. MOU renewed every three years.Equipment audited annually

DSE, DOT, AMSA, Research Department, volunteers

95 Maintain a database of appropriately trained wildlife response volunteers

Minimum of 30 volunteers trained and identified in the database. Database audited annually

Volunteers, DSE

96 Ensure appropriate staff are trained in shoreline response for marine pollution incidents

A minimum of five trained staff maintained

DOT, DSE, AMSA, Operations Department

97 Maintain a store of equipment for initial shoreline response at the Nature Parks

Equipment maintained and audited annually

4.5.3 AircraftThe operation of aircraft of any type at low levels has the potential to disturb communities and the values of recreational and conservation areas. When aircraft operations occur in uncontrolled airspace (below 8,500 feet) aircraft generally have the freedom to fly wherever they wish above 500 feet in rural areas and above 1,000 feet in built up areas. Micro and ultra-lights are being used with increasing frequency on Phillip Island, potentially increasing the level of noise disturbance.


A Fly Neighbourly Agreement (FNA) was developed for the Nature Parks in consultation with the aviation community in 2005 and enacted in 2006. It is a voluntary agreement in which aircraft operators agree to operate above 1,500 feet within one nautical mile of three significant environmental areas of Phillip Island including; Cape Woolamai, Rhyll Inlet and Summerland Peninsula and Seal Rock.


98 Ensure effective communication of the rationale for the FNA to encourage compliance and specifically include ultra-light and micro-light pilot trainers in communication plan

Improve FNA compliance. One reminder letter to service providers per annum

CASA, Marketing Department

4.6 Heritage ConservationThe cultural history of Phillip Island adds another rich layer to the many stories to be shared within the Nature Parks. The Nature Parks is responsible for the management of sites, which have importance in terms of both the Island’s indigenous history, and that of European settlement including Churchill Island.

4.6.1 Archaeological SitesThe Bunurong/Boon Wurrung people occupied Western Port and appear to have seasonally used Phillip Island17.

Over 217 registered sites have been recorded in the Nature Parks, the majority occurring along the south coast. Much of the Phillip Island coast is an area of cultural sensitivity under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006.

Development and public access at, or near, these sites are potential major threats. Coastal processes such as wind and water erosion and disturbance by fauna (for example nesting burrows) are further threats to these sites, but are of less significance than human threats. Archaeological assessments will be addressed in all future Nature Parks developments where required.

Through working with AAV, Department of Planning and Community Development, and the Bunurong/Boon Wurrung people, the Nature Parks will ensure that archaeological sites are protected and conserved in a manner consistent with state, and national guidelines.


99 Re-survey and document known sites and new sites as a pre-requisite to development of the key area plans (SP 1.3.1, 1.4.2, 2.1.1, 2.1.2,)

Surveys completed by 2017 AAV, Bunurong/Boon Wurrung people, Education Department

100 Implement management measures that minimise visitor impacts and other causes of damage to protect archaeological sites (SP 1.3.1, 1.4.2, 2.1.1, 2.1.2,)

Implement recommendations of surveys as they become available

AAV, Bunurong/Boon Wurrung people, PIDHS, Education Department

101 Train Nature Parks staff in the identification and appropriate management of archaeological sites

All Environment field staff trained in identification of middens and other archaeological sites by June 2017

Education Department, consultants, Bunurong/Boon Wurrung people

4.6.2 European Historic SitesEuropean influence on Phillip Island commenced over 200 years ago with the activities of early sealers and the landing of George Bass in 1798. Shortly afterwards, in 1801, Lieutenant James Grant landed on Churchill Island and planted wheat, corn and other vegetables and built a blockhouse - establishing the first documented European crops sown and building in Victoria.

Rogers Cottage, Amess House and the cellar and stables on Churchill Island, constructed in the 1860s-1880s, are listed on the Victorian Heritage Register and Register of the National Estate, and are of state and national significance. Known as the ‘Homestead Tree’, the Norfolk Island Pine located in front of the homestead was planted by Samuel


Amess (Sen.) to commemorate the completion of the homestead in 1872. This tree is a local landmark of regional significance (T11064). In addition the Black Mulberry (T11063), the olive trees (T12145) and the Moonahs (T11065) are of regional significance. The mulberry is a remnant of the orchard planted in 1880 and the olive trees were planted in about 1890 by Samuel Amess.

A number of other historic sites exist in and adjacent to the Nature Parks, including:

•Diamond Dolly quarry site at Rhyll Inlet•Granite quarry site (1891-92) on the east side of Cape Woolamai•Remains of a chicory kiln and a former hall near the KCC•Remains of a jetty built at Cat Bay in the 1920s•Speke shipwreck of 1906 at Kitty Millers Bay •Shipwrecks near the Nobbies and along the south coast •Historic landscape at Summerland Peninsula spanning the early 1800s to present.

There are varying perceptions of the significance and values of historic sites among Nature Parks staff and other stakeholders. Conservation work may include reducing impacts by restricting or limiting access to some sites, maintaining protection from fire and working to stabilise existing structures. High costs may be associated with implementing conservation work, such as stabilising the structural integrity of old infrastructure or undertaking asbestos remediation works.

Churchill Island has its own friends group - The Friends of Churchill Island Society Inc. (FOCIS). This volunteer group is dedicated to preserving and enhancing the unique history of Churchill Island and was first established in 1980. FOCIS is active in raising funds and providing an opportunity for people interested in the historical significance and the exquisite natural beauty of Churchill Island to get involved as guides and with other activities. The group also provides advice and on ground assistance with the preservation of all historical aspects of the Island.


102 Help ensure a register of historic sites and conservation work undertaken is maintained (SP 1.3.2)

Register is developed and maintained by Churchill Island staff

Churchill Island staff, Operations & Marketing Departments, PIDHS, FOCIS

103 Consider interpreting and preserving the “Koala proof fence” erected along the Cowes/Rhyll Road during the 1930s.

Task completed by Education Department by June 2014

Education Department

104 Provide input to the implementation of conservation plans to protect and interpret historic sites in the Nature Parks

Replies to requests for information from the Operations and Education Departments completed within three days

Education, Operations and Marketing Departments, PIDHS, FOCIS

105 Help ensure that management and development of Churchill Island is compatible with the protection of cultural values (SP 1.3.2)

Replies to requests for information from the Operations and Education Departments completed within three days

Education, Operations and Marketing Departments, Heritage Victoria, DSE, FOCIS

106 Help ensure that management and interpretation of Churchill Island and its collection is through museum standard practices (SP 1.3.2).

Replies to requests for information from Education Department completed within three days

Education, Operations and Marketing Departments, PIDHS, FOCIS, Museum Victoria, National Trust

107 Provide input for the establishment of a Phillip Island Heritage Trail (SP 2.6.4)

Replies to requests for information from Education Department completed within three days

Education and Marketing Departments, BCSC, PICS, PIDHS, FOCIS


5 | Community Partnerships

5.1.1 Wildlife RehabilitationThe Nature Parks operates a Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre located adjacent to the Penguin Parade, the main purpose of which is to rehabilitate distressed native wildlife, particularly Little Penguins and seabirds to their natural condition so they can be released back into the wild. These facilities are not staffed 24 hours a day; therefore it is necessary to transfer fauna requiring intensive care to other wildlife shelters or volunteer foster carers. An after-hours volunteer network also provides emergency transport and first-aid for wildlife in distress on Phillip Island.

Facilities for the care of sick or injured koalas are located at the KCC.


108 Continue to operate the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre to treat injured wildlife from Phillip Island and seabirds from throughout Victoria

Centre still operating in June 2017 DSE, foster carers, wildlife shelters

109 Continue to operate the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre for injured wildlife and seabirds in the event of marine pollution incident/spill

MOU with DSE renewed every three years

DSE, DPI, DOT, VicRoads, BCSC, EPA, Research Department, volunteers

110 Maintain a number of registered volunteer foster carers assisting with animals requiring 24 hour care

Minimum two foster carers Volunteers, DSE

111 Maintain an appropriate number of registered Rescue/Transport volunteers to respond to after-hours emergencies

Minimum 12 volunteers Volunteers, DSE

112 Maintain links with other wildlife shelters

Contribute to DSE wildlife shelter newsletter annually

Volunteers, DSE, Wildlife Shelters

113 Maintain an MOU with DSE to facilitate the rehabilitation of oiled penguins and seabirds from Victoria

Renewed every three years DSE

114 Increase public awareness that the Nature Parks is responsible for the welfare of wildlife living within its boundaries and that wildlife living outside the Nature Parks is the responsibility of DSE (SP 2.6.2)


DSE, BCSC, VicRoads, Education Department, PV, Landcare, Friends and Community Groups

115 Assist with educating fishers regarding the proper disposal of fishing nets, fishing line, hooks and bait bags to reduce damage to marine life including Australian Pelicans, Pacific Gulls, Silver Gulls, Little Penguins and other birds


Education Department, PV, community, fishers

5.1.2 Grants, Sponsorships and PartnershipsDue to the existence of multiple land managers on Phillip Island, partnerships need to form the basis for moving forward. Grants have a specific outcome and provide an ideal way of bringing together all those involved. In addition, partnerships with groups that have elected office bearers, such as Coastcare, can open up access to a wider range of grants including the new Victorian Communities for Nature Grants.


LandcareThe Nature Parks supports Landcare to undertake agreed projects and objectives. These projects may include:

•Weed control - including the management of boxthorn, gorse and bridal creeper on private land adjacent to the Nature Parks

•Control of pest animals on Phillip Island – including baiting for rabbits on private property•Wildlife corridors on Phillip Island.

Barbara Martin Bush BankIn 1999, the Nature Parks partnered with the Friends of the Koalas and other local organisations to establish the Barbara Martin Bush Bank. The aim of the Bush Bank is to propagate indigenous plants from seed collected on Phillip Island. A part-time co-ordinator is employed by the Bush Bank and is assisted by a number of dedicated volunteers. The plants produced are purchased by groups including Landcare, the Nature Parks, Coastcare, BCSC and the general public. The Nature Parks provides the land on which the Bush Bank operates.

Short-tailed Shearwater Rescue volunteer programShort-tailed Shearwaters (mutton birds) are protected by international agreements and federal and state laws. During the fledging period a significant number of juvenile birds are attracted by street lights and illuminated signs, land on Phillip Island roads and are run over and killed. The birds also represent a danger to motorists.

A plan was developed in 1999 aimed at reducing this public risk and bird mortality. The Nature Parks, in partnership with VicRoads, BCSC, SP AusNet, DSE and local businesses implemented a community awareness program and nightly volunteer patrols to minimise public risk and shearwater mortality on Phillip Island and in San Remo. To minimise the attraction of the birds to the roads, the San Remo Bridge lights are turned off for the peak duration of the fledging for up to 10 days over the four week period with the support of SP AusNet and VicRoads.

Hooded Plover WatchHooded Plover Watch is a community-based initiative aimed at monitoring and improving Hooded Plover breeding success on Phillip Island. Hooded Plovers typically nest on surf beaches in the busy summer months. They are prone to disturbance and thus low breeding success. Volunteers help monitor nest sites and educate the public about the importance of keeping themselves and dogs away from nesting areas. This program is conducted from late spring to early autumn. Counts of all birds on beaches are held quarterly to monitor the species in the long term.


116 Continue to apply for grants, sponsorships and partnerships with government agencies and to support community groups (SP 2.6.2)

One grant applied for each financial year

Government agencies and community groups

117 Continue to work with landowners through Landcare (SP 2.6.2)

Maintain synergies with annual Landcare works program

Landcare, landowners

118 Continue to support and work with the Barbara Martin Bush Bank (SP 2.6.2)

One staff member sits on the management committee for the BMBB

BMBB, FOK, Landcare, BCSC, volunteers, landowners

119 Continue to support the Short-tailed Shearwater Rescue Program (SP 2.6.2)

Annual program conducted between April and May

BCSC, VicRoads, volunteers, SP AusNet, PV, local businesses, Wonthaggi Desalination Plant

120 Continue to support the Hooded Plover Watch volunteers (SP 2.6.2)

Annual program undertaken with volunteers

BirdLife Australia, BCSC, volunteers, PV


Key Area Management


6 | Key Area Management

6.1 IntroductionThis Environment Plan represents the Nature Parks’ first step in developing an ‘Assets Based Framework’. Natural resource managers use this methodology increasingly across Victoria, including Catchment Management Authorities, Coastal Boards, Parks Victoria and the Department of Sustainability and Environment. Different managers are using slightly different definitions; a comparison between land managers is given below:

Natural Resource Manager

Term Nature Parks Terminology CMA description

PPWCMACorangamite CMA

Site Zones and Sub-zones Key Area (Asset)Key Areas (Assets) and Sub-areas

PPWCMA will be using the term Site. The Corangamite CMA has defined 15 landscape zones for planning purposes, based predominantly on sub-basins.

Victorian Catchment Management Authority and PPWCMA

Assets Values Identification and description of the region’s assets, comprising those of international, national, state and regional significance. These land, water and biodiversity assets, and other landscapes, will be defined and mapped at a scale that is appropriate for strategic regional planning

Gippsland Coastal Board

Asset Key Area (Asset) An asset is defined in this framework as: “areas that are functionally similar and are likely to deliver a set of ecosystem services or environmental values that can be assessed as values within the asset class” (habitat unit).

NaturePrint (DSE)

Values Values, Environmental, Social and Economic

Biodiversity values only in NaturePrint

Applying an ‘Assets Based Framework’ framework will assist the Nature Parks to prioritise our environmental management goals, as well as allowing synergies with regional and state strategies.

The Nature Parks will operate within Key Areas (assets); each Key Area will be further sub-divided into sub-areas. The environmental, social and economic values of each key area will be articulated, and goals for their management will be carefully planned, documented and implemented, taking into consideration the hierarchy of principals set out in the Victorian Coastal Strategy, 2008 and the purpose for which the land was reserved.

Preparation of Strategic management plans for each Key Area (SP 1.3) requires information to be available on the environmental, social and economic values of the Key Area including:

• Identification and management priorities for native vegetation and weeds• Identification of archaeological sites and management priorities•Assessment of fauna (native and non-native) using the area•Assessment of wildfire risk and management options•Assessment of recreational carrying capacity and visitor experience.

Not all this information is currently available for all Key Areas and needs to be generated over the life of the Environment Plan.

This part of the Environment Plan will:

• Identify Key Areas (assets) that comprise the Nature Parks• Identify Sub-areas (assets): define boundaries of Sub-areas• Identify each Sub-area’s Values: environmental, social and economic• Identify current and potential threats or constraints, any partnerships, shared responsibilities or relationships

that exist• Identify knowledge and information gaps, and develop programs to address these gaps•Establish conservation goals and measures which reflect the particular characteristics and challenges of each

Key Area and Sub-area.


6.2 Key AreasA Key Area is defined as a geographic area (asset). Key Areas are natural elements of the environment, which have environmental, social and/or economic values, and are spatially defined. Processes affecting the Key Area, which are outside its boundary, are also recognised.

6.2.1 ValuesIn terms of the Environment Plan the inclusion of social and economic values is to assist with assessing the viability of an environmental value for protection.

Environmental values: the environmental values associated with the Key Area, including ecosystem functions and the natural values the Key Area contains – habitat, water filtration, significant flora or fauna, etc.

Social values: what makes the Key Area significant to the community – amenity, spiritual, recreational, etc. Social values may also be threats to environmental values.

Economic values: the economic values the Key Area provides – including tourism, consumptive uses such as water, resource use and productive uses, and may also be values that enable the use or protection of environmental values, for example roads, toilet blocks, etc. Economic values are important but also need to be considered separately because they are often threats to environmental and social values.

Workshops with Nature Parks’ staff and the local community identified seven Key Areas. Each Key Area has been divided into a number of Sub-areas.

Values for Key AreasTriple-bottom-line values considered for the Nature Parks Key Areas are provided in Appendix 5. These have been derived from indicators developed for the Gippsland Coastal Board, which rely on those suggested by the Commonwealth and the Cooperative Research Centre for Coastal Zone, Estuary and Waterway Management (CRC) (www.ozcoats.org.au) as well as those outlined in Victoria’s Coastal Spaces policy19. Values need to be available at the geographic scale used to define Key Areas. Values meeting these criteria have been sourced from Nature Parks’ datasets and reports, GIS layers and reports available on the web and local knowledge held by staff and community groups.

DSE’s NaturePrint has also been consulted in relation to value definition and valuation. NaturePrint is a mechanism being developed by DSE to integrate and analyse statewide information available through DSE databases about biodiversity values, threatening processes and ecosystem function at the landscape scale. NaturePrint provides simple-to-use outputs for biodiversity decision-making including strategic planning, targeting natural resource management, and Victorian regulatory frameworks. See: www.dse.vic.gov.au/conservation-and-environment/biodiversity/natureprint

The values that have been included in this Plan have been workshopped during the Nature Parks’ staff, expert committee and public consultation sessions. Additional datasets, recommended for inclusion during consultation, have also been included or, if the dataset was not available, noted as a goal for the next five years. Further data may also be needed to ensure the quality of data for each area is comparable.

The Nature Parks Board’s legislative responsibility covers agreements, legislation, treaties and policies that are external to the Nature Parks and which it is required to follow as a manager of Crown Land (see policy setting). Flora or fauna within the Nature Parks that are listed under these frameworks are allocated classifications of conservation concern e.g. the Growling Grass Frog is listed as Vulnerable under the federal Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 and as Threatened under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988. Both federal and state governments have plans that identify threats, mitigation and management and recovery options.

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6.2.2 Map of Key Areas


7 | Key Area A: Summerland Peninsula

Summerland Peninsula is an exposed plateau with a coastline of sandy and basalt boulder beaches and rock platforms amongst rocky cliffs at the western end of Phillip Island; it is of high conservation significance. Seal Rock and Black Rock are home to the second largest breeding colony of Australian Fur Seals in the world.

The Key Area contains a wide range of habitat and is of state botanical significance20 and contains a number of BioSites. The south coast is of National Landscape Significance21 while the north coast is a coastal landscape of state significance. The area supports the largest remaining Little Penguin colony on Phillip Island and is one of the largest in Victoria. It is an important habitat for many other species and is a significant nesting site for migratory and other birds.

Surveys of flora and some fauna, mapping of Little Penguin and Short-tailed Shearwater habitat as well as archaeological sites and a fire plan have been completed. The subtidal zone between Kennon Head, Seal Rock and Point Sambell is a Marine Special Management Area (SMA) for the protection of Little Penguins. Rock platforms within the Nature Parks support important intertidal communities. A management plan for the SMA is currently being prepared. The Summerland Peninsula is also home to key state tourism assets including the world renowned Penguin Parade and the Nobbies Centre.

A large parcel of land in the centre of the Key Area was subdivided in 1927 into 776 residential lots, and ultimately 190 homes were constructed on the ‘Summerland Estate’. In 1985 the Victorian government commenced a program to purchase privately held property within the Estate in order to protect the penguin colony. All properties were purchased by June 2010 and a subsequent three year $3.4 million habitat restoration program was funded by the State Government. The program included undergrounding power, demolition and removal of the last remaining houses and redundant infrastructure, revegetation and the provision of artificial nests and pest control and will enable the long term reclamation of critical penguin habitat.

The completion of the buy-back was also the catalyst for the development of the Summerland Peninsula Master Plan (SP 1.1.1), which is due to be completed in 2012. The Master Plan seeks to address the role of tourism and recreation within this highly sensitive conservation area.

0 400m200Scale 1:15,000North

A Summerland PeninsulaB North-West BeachesC South Coast BeachesD WoodlandsE Rhyll Inlet and Silverleaves BeachF Churchill Island and SurroundsG Cape WoolamaiRoad


Critical questions to be addressed include identifying the most appropriate location for the Penguin Parade Visitor Centre, reassessing pedestrian, vehicle and recreational user access in and around the Peninsula and the Nobbies Visitor Centre.

Further to the Master Plan, a business case seeking further funding from the Victorian Government for public investment in capital works on the Peninsula commenced in 2012. The business case will demonstrate the environmental, social and economic benefits to be delivered by the fulfilment of the Summerland Peninsula Master Plan (SP 1.2.1).

In recognition of the significant surfing sites at Cat Bay and Summerland Beach, the Nature Parks and the community are currently developing an application for these two beaches to be included in a National Surfing Reserve proposal via the National Surfing Reserves Board (SP 2.4.1).

The invertebrate fauna and flora of the intertidal rock platforms around the Summerland Peninsula has not been studied in detail. Bennet and Pope (1953)22 describe the zonation of intertidal rock platforms in Victoria and Synott and Wescott (1976)23 at nearby Flinders Reef.

Local knowledge has confirmed the presence of species listed in Appendix 6.

No. Whole Key Area Actions Goal Partners

121 Investigate the possible endorsement of the Summerland Peninsula as a Protected Area under the IUCN. (SP 2.4.1)

Application prepared for the Summerland Peninsula to become an IUCN Category IV Habitat/Species Reserve by June 2013

WPB, BCSC, BirdLife Australia, community, DSE and Indigenous community

122 Enhance the enduring protection of the Summerland Peninsula through National Heritage listing (SP 2.1.7)

Application prepared by June 2014 BCSC, BirdLife Australia, community, WPB, Heritage Victoria, DSE and Indigenous community

123 Evaluate the likelihood of achieving World Heritage Listing for the Summerland Peninsula (SP 2.1.7)

Evaluation completed by June 2016 WPB, BCSC, BirdLife Australia, local community, Heritage Victoria, DSE and Indigenous community

124 Investigate the inclusion of the Summerland Peninsula as a Skylight Reserve (UNESCO) (SP 2.4.1)

Evaluation completed by June 2016 BCSC, BirdLife Australia, local community, WPB, Heritage Victoria, DSE and Indigenous community

125 Implement habitat restoration, weed and feral animal management programs to complement the Summerland Masterplan

See targets under section on habitat restoration, weed control and feral animal management

Volunteers, landowners, Landcare, VicRoads, BCSC, contractors

126 Help investigate the viability and impact of reintroducing indigenous fauna and flora to the Summerland Peninsula (SP 2.1.4)

Investigation completed by June 2017

Research Department, DSE, Healesville Sanctuary

127 Complete the requirements of the Victorian Government’s Summerland rehabilitation grant

All milestones completed by June 2013

DSE, volunteers, contractors

128 Seek additional funding to maintain conservation gains beyond June 2013 (SP 1.2.1)

Continued improvement of habitat quality on the Summerland Peninsula. One grant running or application per annum

DSE, Penguin Foundation, government agencies

129 Continue to protect Little Penguins, Short-tailed Shearwaters and other fauna by restricting public access to the Summerland Peninsula at night

Continued protection of indigenous fauna and flora by enforcing Nature Park regulations and determinations

DSE, VicRoads, BCSC

130 Protect intertidal areas from trampling by visitors

Include the negative effects of visitation on intertidal flora and fauna during the development of the Nature Parks Access Policy. Enforce Nature Park regulations and determinations

DSE, BCSC, Community


131 Introduce community based ecological monitoring of the intertidal rock platforms around the Summerland Peninsula

Community based ecological monitoring in place by June 2015

Research Department, DSE, volunteers, PV, Coastcare

132 Maintain a ranger presence to increase education and compliance of Nature Parks regulations.

Regular patrols take place throughout the year – at least 500 hours per annum

133 Develop a protocol for the Nature Parks’ educational activities to reduce the impact on the rock platform.

Protocol completed by June 2013 Education Department

134 Consider restricting line fishing to areas where it will minimalise impact on wildlife such as Little Penguins and Sooty Oystercatchers and other birds using the intertidal rock platforms. Public safety should also be taken into consideration.

Effect of disturbance and entanglement with fishing debris to be taken into account during development of the Nature Parks Access Policy (December 2013)

BCSC, DSE

7.1 Sub-Area A1: Seal Rock and Black RockSub-area A1 consists of two small rocky islands, Seal Rock and Black Rock, two kilometres off the tip of the Summerland Peninsula, surrounded by rocky reefs; it is a breeding and nursery site for the Australian Fur Seal and nesting area for the Kelp Gull.

Major Values

Environmental •NaturePrint identifies this as an area of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values•Many species observed in and around the Sub-area are listed as of conservation concern by international,

federal and state bodies: IUCN Listed Three bird species and the Australian Fur Seal EPBC Protected Forty-three bird species and the Australian Fur SealFFG Act Listed Seven bird speciesVAL Listed Sixteen bird speciesEVCs of conservation concern

Bird Colony Succulent Herbland (rare) and Estuarine Flats Grassland (endangered)

•The area is an important breeding, feeding and roosting site for the Kelp Gull and Black-faced Cormorant•The area is also an important feeding area for the Ruddy Turnstone, Sooty Oystercatcher and Pacific Gull•The breeding colony of 25,000 - 30,000 Australian Fur Seals is the second largest in Australia•Seal Rock is a BioSite of National Significance (Site 4661)24

•Seal Rock and Black Rock are listed on the Register of the National Estate25 •Surrounding waters are feeding areas for the Great White Shark, which is listed as vulnerable under the

EPBC Act

Social •No landing permitted due to environmental sensitivity and human safety•Significant views of seals from the Nobbies Centre and commercial boat tours•Shipwreck adjacent to Seal Rock included on the Heritage Register26 •Perimeter restrictions apply to boats, jet-skis and aircraft•Recreational boating (adjacent to Nature Parks)

Economic •Wildlife boat tours to view seals (adjacent, restrictions apply)•Commercial fishing (adjacent, restrictions apply)


Issues

•Impacts of human disturbance on seals•Risk of disease to seals (e.g. alopecia)•Lack of knowledge among fishers of the diet of seals leading to human seal interactions •Potential disturbance to seals from tour boats•Impact of marine pollution such as discarded fishing nets, bait straps, oil etc. on seals

No. Sub-Area Actions Goal Partners

135 Review actions relating to seals in the Nature Parks’ Oiled Wildlife Response Plan

Oiled Wildlife Response Plan reviewed annually

DOT, DSE, DPI

7.2 Sub-Area A2: The Nobbies and South Coast This Sub-area excludes the Nobbies Centre and associated infrastructure. The Sub-area includes Round Island, The Nobbies (three small islands), Point Grant, and the coastline south west of Cowrie Beach, around the west tip of the Peninsula and along the southern coast to Phelans Bluff. The largest colony of Crested Terns in Victoria breeds on the Nobbies. The south coast supports the densest area of breeding Little Penguins in the Nature Parks. Public access to the entire area is currently restricted to protect environmental values, Indigenous heritage and for public safety.

Major Values

Environmental •NaturePrint identifies this as an area of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state

bodies include:IUCN Listed One bird speciesEPBC Protected Ten bird species are protected under marine and/or migratory provisionsFFG Act Listed Seven bird species VAL Listed Twelve bird speciesEVCs of conservation concern

Bird Colony Succulent Herbland (rare) and Estuarine Flats Grassland (endangered).

•The area is an important overwintering site for the Swamp Harrier from Tasmania•Point Grant and the Nobbies to Phelans Bluff is a geological site of state significance (Site 188)27

•The north-west and southern coasts are a BioSite of national significance (Site 4735)

Social •Currently public access to some cliff areas is restricted to protect environmental values and for public safety29 •The southern coast is a Coastal Landscape of National significance30

•Significant views of Australian Fur Seals from Point Grant•Perimeter restrictions apply to boats, jet-skis and aircraft•Area of cultural heritage sensitivity•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (middens) present•Shipwrecks adjacent to the Nobbies included on the Heritage Register31

Economic •Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent to Nature Parks)•Commercial fishing (adjacent to Nature Parks)

Issues

•Danger of rock fishing / sightseeing from rock platform and at the edge of cliffs- multiple human fatalities recorded•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds (penguins and shearwaters)•Impacts of human disturbance to cultural heritage sites•Storm water from roadway impacting on habitat and cliffs•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna•Impact of roadway on habitat quality


136 Liaise with BCSC on improving storm water drainage from the South Coast Road at Phelans Bluff. (SP 2.1.1)

Storm water run-off reduced BCSC, DSE, VicRoads


7.3 Sub-Area A3: The Nobbies CentreThe Nobbies Centre is located at Point Grant, the south-western tip of the Summerland Peninsula. It attracts over 300,000 visitors per year, providing views of the coastline, the southern ocean and the Seal Rock seal colony. Boardwalks and viewing platforms leading from the Centre allow visitors to experience coastal habitat, including seabird and marine life. Little Penguins and Silver Gulls nest around the centre.

Major Values

Environmental •NaturePrint identifies the area surrounding the Visitor Centre as being of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state

bodies include: IUCN Listed One bird species EPBC Protected Twenty nine bird species FFG Act Listed Three bird and one plant species Oxalis rubens (Dune Wood-sorrel)VAL Listed Five bird speciesEVCs of conservation concern

Two plant ‘communities’: Bird Colony Succulent Herbland (rare), Estuarine Flats Grassland (endangered)

•The area is an important breeding, feeding and roosting site for the Cape Barren Goose, Little Penguin and Silver Gull•Point Grant and the Nobbies to Phelans Bluff is a geological site of state significance (Site 188)32

•The north-west and southern coasts are a BioSite of national significance (Site 4735)33

Social •The Nobbies Centre (free entry) provides public facilities including toilets, souvenirs, dining opportunities and interpretation•Area of cultural heritage sensitivity•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (middens) present•Significant views of Australian Fur Seals and Bass Strait from the Nobbies boardwalks•Shipwrecks (adjacent) included on the Heritage Register•The southern coast is a Coastal Landscape of National significance34

•Closed to vehicles and visitors at night

Economic •Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)•Commercial fishing (adjacent)•The Nobbies Centre

Issues

•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds•Storm water from building impacting on habitat and cliffs•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna•Impact of roadway and car park on habitat quality•Parking is limited and congestion occurs at peak periods, including cars parking on roadsides•Dated infrastructure


137 Investigate ways of reducing the impact of storm water drainage from the roof of the Nobbies Centre on wildlife habitat (SP 2.1.1)

Storm water impact reduced by June 2014

Operations Department, VicRoads

138 Investigate ways of improving traffic management to reduce habitat damage from off-road parking in peak periods as part of the Summerland Master Plan (SP 1.1)

Input to the Master Plan competed by June 2013

Administration and Finance Departments, community


7.4 Sub-Area A4: Summerland PlateauThe heart of the Summerland Peninsula is an exposed plateau dominated by Poa grassland and Melaleuca woodland. The Sub-area includes the former Summerland Estate that is currently being restored to penguin habitat as well as Poa grasslands in the south, which are of state significance.

Major Values

Environmental •NaturePrint identifies this as an area of predominantly high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values, as well as having patches where we can re-establish and improve habitat values including revegetation and connectivity•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state

bodies include: IUCN Listed One bird species EPBC Protected Twenty-three bird and one plant species Amphibromus fluitans (River Swamp

Wallaby-grass)FFG Act Listed Three bird and two plant speciesVAL Listed Six bird and five plant species EVCs of conservation concern

Three plant ‘communities’: Bird Colony Succulent Herbland (rare), Estuarine Flats Grassland (endangered), and Plains Grassy Woodland (endangered)

•The area is an important overwintering site for the Swamp Harrier (included above)•The north-west and southern coasts are a BioSite of national significance (Site 4735)35

Social •Area of cultural heritage sensitivity•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (middens) present•Currently limited public access•Closed to vehicles at dusk

Economic •Roads (adjacent)

Issues

•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds•Impact of human disturbance to cultural sites•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna•Impact of roadways and traffic on habitat quality•Impact of redundant infrastructure on wildlife•Danger of wildfire to bird colonies


139 Protect populations of Amphibromus fluitans (River Swamp Wallaby-grass)

Number of plants maintained over five years

140 Protect nesting sites of the Swamp Harrier and other raptors from disturbance to prevent chick abandonment

No nests disturbed

141 Continue restoration of the plateau to penguin habitat and removal of redundant infrastructure including road lighting

Restoration continues, including 200 hours of weed control per annum

Volunteers, Penguin Foundation, government agencies


7.5 Sub-Area A5: Solent Avenue to Cowrie BeachThe Sub-area consists of two sandy beaches separated by a rocky headland named Point Sambell. Shelly Beach lies in the southern corner of Cat Bay and faces north. The beach is narrow and steep at high tide and at low tide it widens a little and is fronted by near continuous low tide rock flats.

Cowrie Beach is a west facing sandy bay boarded by basalt rock platforms and reefs. At low tide the rock platform fills the bay. At high tide the beach is narrow and steep. Both beaches are backed by dunes, which are nesting sites for Little Penguins and Short-tailed Shearwaters and is a former Hooded Plover nesting site.

Major Values

Environmental •NaturePrint identifies this as an area of predominantly high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and

state bodies include: IUCN Listed One bird speciesEPBC Protected Twenty-four bird species and one plant species Amphibromus fluitans (River Swamp

Wallaby-grass)FFG Act Listed Four bird species and one plant species VAL Listed Nine bird species and three state listed plant species EVCs of conservation concern

Five plant ‘communities’: Bird Colony Succulent Herbland (rare), Coastal Dune Scrub/Coastal Dune Grassland Mosaic (depleted), Estuarine Flats Grassland (endangered), Plains Grassy Woodland (endangered), Bird Colony Succulent Herbland/Coastal Tussock Grassland Mosaic (rare)

•The area is an important breeding, feeding and roosting site for the Little Penguin, Short-tailed Shearwater, Sooty Oystercatcher and former breeding site of the Hooded Plover•Important feeding site for the Pacific Gull and Sooty Oystercatcher•The north-west and southern coasts are a BioSite of national significance(Site 4735)36

•The gravel terrace at Cowrie Beach is a geological site of regional significance (Site 187)37

Social •Area of cultural heritage sensitivity•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (midden) present •Toilet facilities and beach access are provided at Shelly Beach•Car parking and beach access are provided at Cowrie Beach•Shipwreck adjacent to Cat Bay included on the Heritage Register38

•Recreational fishing at Cowrie Beach•Surfing locations

Economic •Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)•Commercial fishing (adjacent)•Nature Parks Ultimate Penguin Tour

Issues

•Impact of human disturbance, including tours, to roosting and nesting fauna•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna•Impact of roadways on habitat quality•Impact of Shelly Beach toilet block on habitat•Carrying capacity issues specifically car parking•Impact of stormwater run-off from the former Summerland housing estate on habitat


142 Investigate solutions to manage stormwater run-off from the former Summerland housing estate into habitat (SP 2.1.1, 2.1.2)

Measures to improve habitat identified by June 2013

BCSC, VicRoads, Melbourne Water

143 Seek funding to address mitigation measures identified above

Funding to be sought during 2014-2015

BCSC, VicRoads, Penguin Foundation


7.6 Sub-Area A6: Green Lake and Flynn DunesFlynn Beach is the most northern beach in Cat Bay and backed by steep dunes and bluffs. Green Lake is a small freshwater lake located behind Flynn Beach. It was once large enough to sail on and supported viable fish populations39. Soon after European settlement the lake was filled in by the encroachment of sand from the dunes having been destabilised by burning and the grazing of livestock and rabbits. By the 1880s it was reduced to the ephemeral reedy wetland seen today that fills in spring, with a small stream flowing out to the shore at Flynn Beach.

Major Values

Environmental •NaturePrint identifies this as an area of predominantly high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state

bodies include: IUCN Listed One bird speciesEPBC Protected Thirteen bird species FFG Act Listed Two bird speciesVAL Listed Two plant and nine bird speciesEVCs of conservation concern

Six plant ‘communities’ (EVC’s) are listed as of conservation concern: Coast Banksia Woodland (vulnerable), Wetland Formation (endangered), Reed Swamp (endangered), Estuarine Flats Grassland (endangered), Coastal Dune Scrub (depleted), Coastal Headland Scrub (depleted)

•The area is an important breeding, feeding and roosting site for the Short-tailed Shearwater, Sooty Oystercatcher, Hooded Plover and small numbers of Little Penguin•The north-west and southern coasts are BioSites of national significance (Site 4735)40

•Green Lake swamp and dunes are a geological site of state significance (Site 186)

Social •Area of cultural heritage sensitivity•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (middens) present •Car parking, toilet facilities and beach access are provided at Flynn Beach•Car parking and beach access are provided at Cat Bay •Surfing locations Flynn Beach and Cat Bay including events•Former Cat Bay jetty (in and adjacent)•Recreational fishing area•Closed at dusk

Economic •Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)•Commercial fishing (adjacent)

Issues

•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds•Impact of human disturbance to cultural sites•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna•Impact of roadways on habitat quality•Impact of Flynn Beach toilet block on habitat•Impact of stormwater run-off from Ventnor Road to Green Lake and the former Summerland Estate to Cat Bay on habitat


144 Investigate solutions to manage storm water run-off into habitat (SP 2.1.1, 2.1.2)

Measures to improve habitat identified by June 2013

VicRoads

145 Seek funding to address mitigation measures identified above

Seek funding during 2014 - 2015 VicRoads

146 Ensure that an upgrade of toilet facilities is included in the Summerland Master Plan

Included in Master Plan by December 2012

Finance and Operations Department

147 Build stairway at Flynn Beach for habitat and archaeological site protection

Completed by June 2017 Operations and Finance Departments, DSE, AAV


7.7 Sub-Area A7: Penguin Parade (Summerland Bay)Summerland Bay is a sandy beach about 1.2km long and faces south. At the eastern end are Kennon Head and its associated rock platforms and reefs and at the western end are Phelans Bluff and associated reefs and boulder beach. The dunes behind the beach are up to a kilometre wide and are important nesting areas for Little Penguins and Short-tailed Shearwaters. It provides access for penguins living both in the Penguin Parade area and on the Summerland Plateau.

Major Values


bodies include:IUCN Listed One bird speciesEPBC Protected Twenty seven bird species FFG Act Listed Two bird speciesVAL Listed Dune Wood-sorrel Oxalis rubens and eight bird speciesEVCs of conservation concern

Six plant ‘communities’: Coast Banksia Woodland (vulnerable), Wetland Formation (endangered), Tall Marsh (depleted), Coastal Dune Scrub/Bird Colony Succulent Herbland Mosaic (depleted), Bird Colony Succulent Herbland (rare)

•The area is an important breeding, feeding and roosting site for the Little Penguin, Short-tailed Shearwater and Hooded Plover•Important feeding site for the Pacific Gull and Red-capped Plover•Part of ‘Swan Lake tombolo and dunes’ which is a geological site of state significance (Site 189)42•Summerland Bay’s Little Penguin and Short-tailed Shearwater breeding sites are a BioSite of national

significance (Site 5155)43•Swan Lake is a former locality for the Long-nosed Potoroo Potorous tridactylus

Social •Area of cultural heritage sensitivity•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (middens) present •The Penguin Parade Visitor Centre provides public facilities including toilets, souvenirs, dining opportunities

and interpretation•Car parking and beach access are provided at the Penguin Parade•Significant surfing and swimming location•The southern coastline is coastal landscape of National significance•Phillip Island Nature Parks Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre

Economic •Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)•Commercial fishing (adjacent)•Penguin Parade tourism operations and Nature Parks Administration

Issues

•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds•Impact of human disturbance to cultural sites•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna•Impact of roadways, boardwalks and pathways on habitat quality•Impact of lighting on fauna (penguins and shearwaters)•Impact of erosion on Little Penguin access•Dated infrastructure


148 Continue to manage habitat for Little Penguins within the Penguin Parade area

600 hours completed on habitat management per annum

Volunteers, Research Department

149 Advocate for a study on beach erosion to be included in the Summerland Master Plan

Complete within the Summerland Master Plan by June 2017

Research, Finance and Operations Departments, contractors

150 Ensue a lighting upgrade is included in the Summerland Master Plan to reduce impact on penguins

Complete within the Summerland Master Plan by June 2017

Research, Finance and Operations Departments


7.8 Sub-Area A8: Swan Lake and SurroundsSwan Lake is one of the few freshwater lakes on Phillip Island, and is surrounded by sandy dunes. Prior to European settlement Swan Lake was open to Bass Strait, after which a sand barrier formed, creating the lake. Summerland Bay east is included in this Sub-area.

Major Values


bodies include:IUCN Listed One bird species EPBC Protected Thirty eight bird species and one amphibian. One plant species Amphibromus

fluitans (River Swamp Wallaby-grass)FFG Act Listed Five bird species, one plant species, Purple Blown-grass Lachnagrosis punicea subsp.

filifolia, and one amphibianVAL Listed Four plant species; Creeping Rush Juncus revolutus, Dune Wood-sorrel Oxalis rubens,

Purple Blown-grass Lachnagrosis punicea subsp. filifolia, Wetland Blown-grass Lachnagrostis filiformis var. 2. Twelve bird species and one amphibian

EVCs of conservation concern

Six plant ‘communities’: Coast Banksia Woodland (vulnerable), Wetland Formation (endangered), Tall Marsh (depleted), Coastal Dune Scrub/Bird Colony Succulent Herbland Mosaic (depleted), Bird Colony Succulent Herbland (rare)

•The area is an important breeding, feeding and/or roosting site for the Little Penguin, Short-tailed Shearwater, Musk Duck, Black-fronted Plover, Cape Barren Goose•Important feeding or roosting site for the Pacific Gull and Royal Spoonbill, •Swan Lake, tombolo and dunes are a geological site of state significance (Site 189)45

•Swan Lake is a BioSite of state significance (Site 4738)46

•Swan Lake is a former locality for the Long-nosed Potoroo Potorous tridactylus

Social •Area of cultural heritage sensitivity•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (middens) present •Bird hides and walking paths provide viewing access to the lake•The southern coastline is Coastal Landscape of National significance47

•Closed at dusk

Economic •Car parking, roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)

Issues

•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds•Impact of human disturbance to cultural sites•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna•Impact of roadways, boardwalks and pathways on habitat quality•Potential impact of water impoundment and water quality up stream on Swan Lake•Impact of illegal camping and access on habitat and fauna


151 Develop a management plan for the Growling Grass Frog (SP 2.1.2)

Plan completed by June 2015 Research Department, Melbourne Water

152 Develop management strategies to limit the spread of Myrtaceous shrubs and promote pre-settler taxa such as banksias and casuarinas (SP 2.1.2)

100 casuarina and banksia seedlings planted each year for five years

Volunteers, BMBB


8 | Key Area B: North-west Beaches

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Between the boundary of the Nature Parks at Devon Avenue and Flynn Beach the coast tends in a south westerly direction. There are four prominent grassy bluffs 20 to 30 metres high opposite four reefs: Hen and Chicken, Angelina, Tyro and Flynn. Between the bluffs are west facing sandy beaches backed by low dunes with small lagoons on private farmland, Flynn and McHaffie behind Farm and Woolshed beaches. Beaches are backed by private farmland and public access is limited to walking along the beach.

The area supports nesting Hooded Plovers, Short-tailed Shearwaters, Sooty Oystercatchers and over wintering Hooded Plovers, as well as vegetation of state significance. The area under the Nature Parks’ management is a narrow linear coastal strip, with little buffering, which increases the impacts from areas outside the Nature Parks and makes effective long term management difficult. To date neither detailed studies of flora, fauna or cultural sites have been undertaken.


153 Develop a Key Area Management Plan for the North-west Beaches (SP 1.3.7, 2.1.1)

Complete surveys by end of June 2017

BirdLife Australia, BCSC, Landcare, community, WPB, DSE, Research Department

154 Actively engage volunteers in management of the area (SP 2.1.1)

Undertake three joint habitat days per year

Coastcare Groups, volunteers

155 Develop an ‘Action Procedure for Encroachment’ for areas where private structures such as drains, sheds and lawn areas are intruding into the Nature Parks (SP 2.1.1)

Policy developed by end of June 2013 and enacted by June 2017

BCSC, DSE

8.1 Sub-Area B1: Devon Avenue to Cadogan AvenueHen and Chicken Beach is named after the offshore reef of the same name. It extends from Grossard Point 150 metres south. The area from Devon Avenue south is within the Nature Parks. The beach is narrow and relatively steep and the reef platform is exposed along the length of the beach at low tide. Steep dunes that are nesting areas for Short-tailed Shearwaters back the beach. The two boardwalks and staircases adjacent provide access to Devon Avenue and at the southern end of Cadogan Avenue.

Major Values

Environmental •NaturePrint identifies this as an area of predominantly high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values, but the surrounding developed land means there are less opportunities to improve connectivity•Many species observed in the Sub-area are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and

state bodiesIUCN Listed One bird speciesEPBC Protected Five bird species FFG Act Listed Two bird speciesVAL Listed Eight bird species EVCs of conservation concern

Two plant ‘communities’: Coast Banksia Woodland (rare) and Swamp Scrub (endangered)

•The area is an important breeding, feeding and roosting site for the Hooded Plover and Short-tailed Shearwater•The north-west and southern coasts are a BioSite of national significance (Site 4735)48

Social •Public access restricted as most of the coastline abuts farmland•Shipwrecks included on the Heritage Register (adjacent)•Surfing locations (on some tides)•Area of cultural heritage sensitivity

Economic •Roads, boardwalks and walking paths (in and adjacent)•Commercial fishing (adjacent)


Issues

•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds•Storm water from roadway and houses impacting on habitat•Encroachment affecting habitat values•Impact of weeds and feral and domestic animals on flora and fauna and visual landscape•Impacts of coastal erosion•Dumping of garden waste within the Nature Parks


156 Liaise with BCSC on improving storm water drainage from Cadogan Avenue (SP 2.1.1)

Management of storm water improved

BCSC, DSE, community

8.2 Sub-Area B2: Woolshed Bight to Flynn ReefThe main beaches in this area are Woolshed Bight and Farm Beach. Between the bluffs are west facing sandy beaches backed by low dunes with small lagoons, Flynn and McHaffie behind Farm and Woolshed Beaches. Access is walking only, either from Flynn Beach car park or Devon Avenue car park.

Major Values

Environmental •NaturePrint identifies this as an area of predominantly high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values, but the surrounding developed land means there are less opportunities to improve connectivity•Species observed in the Sub-area listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state bodies include:IUCN Listed One bird speciesEPBC Protected Eight bird species FFG Act Listed Two bird speciesVAL Listed Two plant species Oxalis rubens (Dune Wood-sorrel) (r), Cardamine tenuifolia (Slender

Bitter Pea) (i) and five bird species EVCs of conservation concern

Four plant ‘communities’: Coastal Dune Scrub/Coastal Dune Grassland Mosaic (depleted), Coastal Headland Scrub (depleted), Coastal Dune Grassland (depleted), and Swamp Scrub (endangered)

•The area is an important breeding, feeding and roosting site for the Hooded Plover and Short-tailed Shearwater (included above)•McHaffie Lagoon and Flynn Lagoon are sites of regional geological significance (Sites 184, 185) (outside Nature Parks)•The north-west and southern coasts are a BioSite of national significance (Site 4735)49

Social •Public access restricted due to coastline abutting farmland•Shipwrecks included on the Heritage Register (adjacent)•Surfing locations (adjacent, on some tides)•Area of cultural heritage sensitivity (in and adjacent)



Issues

•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds•Storm water from roadway and houses impacting on habitat•Encroachment affecting habitat values•Impact of weeds and feral and domestic animals on flora and fauna•Impacts of coastal erosion•Dumping of garden waste within the Nature Parks


157 Resolve the management of Crown land with high conservation values near McHaffie Lagoon (SP 2.1.3)

Complete by end of June 2017 DSE, landowners

158 Map boxthorn and other significant weeds

Mapping completed by June 2014

159 Develop a cross tenure weed management plan for dune areas in conjunction with Landcare and adjacent landowners

Plan completed by June 2015 and actions commenced by December 2015

Landcare, landowners


9 | Key Area C: South Coast Beaches

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The South Coast Beaches Key Area extends from Kennon Head to the eastern end of the Colonnades and is of state botanical significance for its disturbed remnants of Coastal Tussock Grassland and rare or threatened flora. Rock platforms support important intertidal communities (outside the Nature Parks). The area under Nature Parks’ management is a fragmented, narrow linear coastal strip, with little buffering, which increases the impacts from areas outside the Nature Parks and makes effective long term management difficult.


160 Help develop a Key Area Management Plan for the South Coast Beaches (SP 1.3.6, 2.1.1)

Completed by June 2017 BCSC, BirdLife Australia, community, WPB, DSE, AAV

161 Actively engage or encourage the establishment of Coastcare or other community groups in areas where they do not currently operate (SP 2.1.1)

Coastcare or similar group established by June 2014

Community, DSE

162 Encourage adjoining landowners and managers to develop wildlife corridors or shelter belts adjacent to and linking coastal areas (SP 2.1.1, 2.2.2)

Funding / assistance provided for the development of wildlife corridors and shelterbelts on private property

Landcare, landownersvolunteers

163 Include informal tracks in island-wide access review (SP 2.1.1)


BCSC, DSE, community, landowners, AAV

164 Work with visitors, residents and holiday home renters to reduce the negative impacts of domestic animals and cars on wildlife

Coordinated program with BCSC set up by June 2014

BCSC, residents, holiday rentals, visitors

165 Work with adjoining landowners to reduce the movement of feral animals and weeds into the Nature Parks from other areas and vice versa (SP 2.1.1)

Coordinated program with BCSC set up by June 2014

BCSC, adjoining landowners, Landcare

166 Maintain relationships with community groups to assist with cross-tenure weed control and re-vegetation programs

Three habitat days per annum conducted

BCSC, landowners, Coastcare and other community volunteers


9.1 Sub-Area C1: Kitty Millers Bay (Kennon Head to Watts Point)Kitty Millers Bay Sub-area extends 500 metres from the west side of Kennon Head to Watt Point. It is a reasonably sheltered bay with rock platforms and reefs which become exposed at low tide. Hooded Plovers and Short-tailed Shearwaters nest along this section of coast.

Major Values

Environmental •NaturePrint identifies this as an area of predominantly high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values, but the surrounding developed land means there are less opportunities to improve connectivity•Species observed in the Sub-area are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and

state bodiesIUCN Listed One bird speciesEPBC Protected Ten bird species FFG Act Listed Two bird speciesVAL Listed Sixteen bird species EVCs of conservation concern

Three plant ‘communities’: Coastal Tussock Grassland (vulnerable), Bird Colony Succulent Herbland (rare), Coastal Dune Scrub/Bird Colony Succulent Herbland Mosaic (depleted)

•The area is a breeding, feeding and roosting site for the Hooded Plover, Sooty Oystercatcher and Short-tailed Shearwater (included above)•The area is a feeding area for the Ruddy Turnstone, Sooty Oystercatcher and Red-necked Stint (included above)•Former Little Penguin colony (last seen 1935) •Kitty Millers Bay is a geological site of state significance (Site 190)50

•Secondary breeding areas on the coast of Phillip Island and Swan Lake are BioSites of state significance (Sites 1567 and 4738)

Social •Swimming beach at high tide•Recreational fishing (spearfishing, adjacent)•Area of cultural sensitivity•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (middens) present•The southern coastline is Coastal Landscape of National significance51

•Diving and surfing location off shore

Economic •Road access, car park, and staircase to beach•Commercial fishing off shore (restrictions apply)•Tour operators conducting snorkelling activities (adjacent)

Issues

•Impacts of human disturbance•Vegetation in poor condition in some areas•Illegal overnight camping (no public amenities) •Potential overuse of rock platform by school groups (no permits required)


167 Upgrade the western staircase to improve access

Completed by June 2013 DSE, Operations Department

168 Map Short-tailed Shearwater colony and develop a management plan

Completed by June 2013 BCSC, DSE, landowners, community, Administration, Education, Research and Operations Departments

169 Develop a vegetation and weed management plan for the Sub-site

Plan completed by June 2014 Consultants, community

170 Canvas interest of local residents in forming a Coastcare or Friends Group (SP 2.1.1)

Group formed by June 2014 Community, Coastcare

171 Continue to report illegal overnight parking/camping in Kitty Millers Bay car park to BCSC enforcement officers

Nightly patrols conducted by Gate Rangers to check on car park and report to BCSC if enforcement is needed

BCSC


9.2 Sub-Area C2: Thorny Beach and Hutchinson Beach (Watts Point to Wild Dog Bluff)This Sub-area extends from Watt Point in the west to Wild Dog Bluff in the east. Hutchinson and Thorny Beaches are separated by Helen Head and are backed by dune systems and steep, grassy bluffs. Both beaches are sandy, gently sloping and have rock platforms.

Major Values

Environmental •NaturePrint identifies this as an area of predominantly high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values, while there are some opportunities to improve connectivity the surrounding developed land means these are less than in some other areas•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state

bodies include:IUCN Listed One bird speciesEPBC Protected Ten bird species FFG Act Listed Two bird speciesVAL Listed Five bird species EVCs of conservation concern

Two plant ‘communities’: Coastal Tussock Grassland (vulnerable), Bird Colony Succulent Herbland (rare)

•The bays are an important breeding, feeding and roosting sites for the Hooded Plover, Short-tailed Shearwater, Sooty Oystercatcher, Kelp Gull, Pacific Gull, Pied Oystercatcher, and Peregrine Falcon.•Native Dog Creek to Thorny Beach is a geological site of national significance (Site 191)52


Social •No public access permitted due to environmental sensitivity and human safety•Shipwrecks (adjacent) included on the Heritage Register54

•Area of cultural sensitivity•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (middens) present•The southern coastline is Coastal Landscape of National significance55

Economic •Commercial fishing (offshore from Nature Parks)

Issues

•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna•Incursion of livestock into the Nature Parks


172 Develop a management plan for Thorny and Hutchinson beaches including mapping weeds, vegetation and cultural assets (SP 1.3.6, 2.1.1)


173 With adjacent landowners ensure fencing is maintained reducing livestock incursion

No livestock incursions over five years

Landowners


9.3 Sub-Area C3: Berry BeachThe Berry Beach Sub-area extends from Wild Dog Bluff to the west and Redcliff Head to the east. Berry Beach is a sandy beach about one kilometre long with rock platforms and rocky reefs. Native Dog Creek mouth is found at the western end. Dune systems, rocky cliffs and grassy bluffs back Berry Beach. Hooded Plovers and Short-tailed Shearwaters nest along this section of coast. No information is available on rare flora in this area.

Major Values

Environmental •NaturePrint identifies this as an area of predominantly high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values; opportunities exist to improve connectivity for some patches•Native Dog Creek which is unallocated Crown land adjacent to the Nature Parks has extensive areas of

native vegetation •Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state

bodies include:IUCN Listed One bird speciesEPBC Protected Eight bird species FFG Act Listed Two bird speciesVAL Listed Eight bird species EVCs of conservation concern

Five plant ‘communities’: Swamp Scrub (endangered), Coastal Tussock Grassland (vulnerable), Bird Colony Succulent Herbland (rare), Coastal Dune Grassland (rare), and Bird Colony Succulent Herbland/Coastal Tussock Grassland Mosaic (rare)

•The area is an important breeding, feeding and roosting site for the Short-tailed Shearwater and Hooded Plover (included above)•Native Dog Creek to Thorny Beach is a geological site of national significance (Site 191)56


Social •Area of cultural sensitivity•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (middens) present•The southern coastline is Coastal Landscape of National significance58

•Road, car parks and amenities available•Surfing location on some tides•Walking track to Pyramid Rock•Swimming, rock pooling, diving (adjacent to Park)•Short-tailed Shearwater viewing

Economic •Road access, car parking and staircase to beach (in and adjacent)•Commercial fishing (adjacent)

Issues

•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna•Impact of roadway on habitat quality•Car parking is limited•Informal access tracks •Issues regarding the management of Crown land including Native Dog Creek


174 Develop a Management Plan for Berry Beach (SP 1.3.6, 2.1.1)


175 Resolve management of Native Dog Creek including appropriate areas of responsibility

Completed by June 2017 DSE, BCSC, adjacent landowners

176 Canvas interest of local residents in developing a Coastcare Group

Interest determined by June 2015 Community and landowners


177 Liaise with residents regarding the prevention of informal access tracks from the new housing development in Glamis Road to the beach (SP 2.1.1)

No damage to Short-tailed Shearwater and Hooded Plover nests or flora

Residents, BCSC

178 Assess the need to upgrade the Pyramid Rock to Berry Beach walking track

Completed by June 2017 DSE

9.4 Sub-Area C4: Pyramid RockThe Pyramid Rock Sub-area extends from Redcliff Head at the end of Berry Beach eastwards. The Sub-area encompasses Storm Bay, a headland with Pyramid Rock offshore, and 20-30 metre high rocky cliffs with rock platforms below. Short-tailed Shearwaters and Sooty Oystercatchers nest along this section of coast.

Major Values

Environmental •NaturePrint identifies this as an area of predominantly high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values. There are also opportunities to improve connectivity with the surrounding area•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state

bodies include:IUCN Listed NA EPBC Protected Twelve bird and one plant species Amphibromus fluitans (River Swamp

Wallaby- grass)FFG Act Listed One bird species VAL Listed Dune Wood Sorrel Oxalis rubens, Coastal Ballart Exocarpus syrticola and five

bird species EVCs of conservation concern

Four plant ‘communities’: Swamp Scrub (endangered), Plains Grassy Woodland (endangered), Coastal Tussock Grassland (vulnerable), Bird Colony Succulent Herbland (rare), Coastal Headland Scrub/Coastal Tussock Grassland Mosaic (depleted)

•The area is an important breeding, feeding and/or roosting site for the Short-tailed Shearwater, Black-faced Cormorant, Sooty Oystercatcher (included above)•Redcliff Head (regional) and Pyramid Rock (state) are geological sites of significance (Site 192 and 193)59

•The north-west and southern coasts are a BioSite of national significance (4735)60

•Little Penguins last recorded breeding at Pyramid Rock in 1972


•Roads, car parks and amenities available•Walking track to Berry Beach•Diving locations nearby


Issues

•Impact of human disturbance to habitat, roosting and nesting birds•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna•Impact of roadways on habitat quality•Impact of people accessing the rock platform through the Nature Parks•Westernport Water sewerage outlet off shore from Pyramid Rock



179 Develop a Management Plan for Pyramid Rock including a review of interpretive signage (SP 1.3.6, 2.1.1)


180 Liaise with BCSC regarding the closure of roads during the Pyramid Rock Festival or similar events held on land adjacent to the Nature Parks to protect the Sub-areas values

Minimise damage to Nature Parks assets

BCSC, event organisers

181 Liaise with event organisers regarding potential impacts of the Pyramid Rock Festival or similar events held on land adjacent to the Nature Parks to protect the Sub-areas values

Minimise damage to Nature Parks assets


9.5 Sub-Area C5: Pyramid Rock to YCW BeachThe Pyramid Rock to YCW Sub-area includes Cunningham Bay to the bluff west of YCW Beach. The coastline is dominated by 20 - 40 metre high basalt cliffs and bluffs, fronted by rock platforms and reefs. Sooty Oystercatchers nest along this section of coast.

The Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit abuts this Sub-area and is recognised in the BCSC planning scheme as Special Use Zone and is a site of state significance for its contribution to Victorian tourism and events. Other land adjacent to the Grand Prix Circuit and abutting the Nature Parks in this Sub-area is used for festivals, camping, adventure activities, car parking and farming.

Major Values

Environmental •NaturePrint identifies this as an area of predominantly high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values. There are also many opportunities to improve habitat and connectivity with the surrounding area•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state

bodies include:IUCN Listed NA EPBC Protected Twelve bird species and Amphibromus fluitans (River Swamp Wallaby-grass)FFG Act Listed One bird species VAL Listed Dune Wood Sorrel Oxalis rubens, Pale-flower Cranesbill Geranium Sp. 3 and five

bird species EVCs of conservation concern

Six plant ‘communities’: Swamp Scrub (endangered), Plains Grassy Woodland (endangered), Swamp Scrub Plains Grassy Woodland Mosaic (endangered), Coastal Tussock Grassland (vulnerable), Coastal Headland Scrub (depleted), Coastal Headland Scrub/Coastal Tussock Grassland Mosaic (depleted)

•The area is an important breeding, feeding and/or roosting site for the Short-tailed Shearwater, Black-faced Cormorant, Sooty Oystercatcher (included above)•Cunningham Bay and Jessie Island are sites of regional geological significance (Site 194)•Secondary breeding areas on the coast of Phillip Island and Swan Lake are a BioSite of state significance

(Site 1567)


•Road and amenities available•Walking track to Berry Beach•Diving locations (adjacent)•Surfing (adjacent)•Recreational rock fishing / spear fishing (adjacent)

Economic •Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)•Commercial fishing (adjacent)•Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit (adjacent land)•Events and festivals (adjacent land)


Issues

•Impact of human disturbance to habitat, roosting and nesting birds•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna•Impact of roadways on habitat quality•Impact of people accessing the rock platform through the Nature Parks•Unofficial walkways or beach access


182 Maintain relationships with adjoining landowners and managers for weed and feral animal control

Ongoing collaboration and access for Nature Parks rangers maintained

Landowners, Phillip Island GP Circuit

183 Liaise with BCSC regarding the closure of roads during the Pyramid Rock Festival or similar events to protect the Sub-areas values

Minimise damage to Nature Parks values


184 Continue to liaise with organisers regarding potential impacts of the Pyramid Rock Festival or similar events on the Sub-areas values



9.6 Sub-Area C6: YCW Beach and Smiths BeachThis Sub-area extends from the bluff to the west of YCW Beach to Express Point in the east. YCW is the acronym for the Young Christian Workers Camp, which is situated in the hinterland immediately behind the beach and was opened by the 3rd Catholic Archbishop of Melbourne, Daniel Mannix, in 1951.

The sandy beach is backed by 10-30 metre high bluffs and has basalt headlands and rock platforms at each end. This is a high impact recreation area with a housing estate nearby. Short-tailed Shearwaters nest in the dunes at the western end of the beach.

Smiths Beach is sandy and is backed by dunes and 20 metre bluffs behind the centre of the beach. This is a very popular beach which is patrolled by Surf Life Saving Victoria, and subsequently is a high impact recreation area. Short-tailed Shearwaters nest in the surrounding dunes.

Major Values

Environmental •NaturePrint identifies this as an area of some high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values. There are also patches with low Natural Values due to development of infra-structure. There are some opportunities to improve habitat and connectivity with the surrounding area.•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state

bodies include:IUCN Listed One bird speciesEPBC Protected Six bird species and Amphibromus fluitans (River Swamp Wallaby-grass)FFG Act Listed One bird species VAL Listed Pale-flower Cranesbill Geranium Sp. 3 and four bird species EVCs of conservation concern

Six plant ‘communities’: Swamp Scrub (endangered), Plains Grassy Woodland (endangered), Swamp Scrub Plains Grassy Woodland Mosaic (endangered), Coastal Tussock Grassland (vulnerable), Coastal Headland Scrub (depleted), Coastal Headland Scrub/Coastal Tussock Grassland Mosaic (depleted)

•The area is an important breeding, feeding and/or roosting site for the Short-tailed Shearwater•Smiths Beach –quartzite (state, 196) and Sunderland Bay (regional, 197) are geological sites of significance63 •The north-west and southern coasts are a BioSite of national significance (Site 4735)64

•Hooded Plover last recorded breeding at Smiths Beach in 1991/92•Little Penguin last recorded breeding at Smiths Beach in 1978



•Road, car parks and amenities available at both Smith’s and YCW beaches (BCSC)•Diving and surfing locations (adjacent)•Active community environment groups•Disabled access ramp at Smiths Beach

Economic •Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)•Commercial fishing (adjacent)•Surf Life Savers available in summer months •Built up areas provide shops•Tour operators conducting surfing schools •Car parking and toilets adjacent – managed by BCSC

Issues

•Impact of human disturbance to habitat, roosting and nesting birds•Impact of human disturbance on dunes and flora•Impact of weeds on native flora•Impact of domestic animals on fauna particularly Hooded Plover, Short-tailed Shearwaters and wallabies•Impact of roadways on habitat quality•Use of the rock platforms by school groups without permits (outside the Nature Parks)•Carrying capacity in the car parks managed by BCSC


185 Review and upgrade fencing along the front of the dunes to prevent damage by visitors

Annual inspection and repair undertaken

Volunteers, DSE

186 Liaise with key agencies to minimise impacts of commercial activities on visitor enjoyment, natural assets and infrastructure (SP 2.1.1)


DSE, BCSC

187 Investigate the impact of the overflow drain from the Smiths Beach Parkland and Drainage Reserve on native vegetation within the Nature Parks and negotiate remediation if required (SP 2.1.1)


BCSC

188 Review dog regulations and possible off-leash dog areas as part of the island-wide access review (SP 1.5.2, 2.6.2)


BCSC, DSE, PV, community


9.7 Sub-Area C7: Sunderland Bay to Surfies PointThis Sub-area extends from Express Point in the west to Surfies Point in the east. Sunderland Bay is a cove amongst basalt cliffs that consists of sand and basalt cobbles. A rock stack in the centre of the bay is a popular roosting area for Pacific Gulls and cormorants. From Sunderland Bay to Surfies Point are rock platforms backed by steep cliffs, with a small beach west of Surfies Point. The area is popular for recreational activities such as surfing and fishing.

Major Values

Environmental •NaturePrint identifies this as an area of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values. There are opportunities to improve habitat and connectivity with the surrounding area•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state

bodies include:IUCN Listed One bird speciesEPBC Protected Three bird species FFG Act Listed One bird species VAL Listed Five plant species; Beaded Glasswort Sarcocornia quinqueflora, Dune Poa Poa

poiformis var ramifer, Dune Wood Sorrell Oxalis rubens, Sand Brome Bromus arenarius, Sea Nymph Amphibolis antarctica (rock pools) and four bird species


Five plant ‘communities’: Swamp Scrub (endangered), Plains Grassy Woodland (endangered), Bird Colony Succulent Herbfield (rare), Coastal Tussock Grassland (vulnerable), Coastal Headland Scrub/Coastal Tussock Grassland Mosaic (depleted)

•The area is an important breeding, feeding and/or roosting site for the Short-tailed Shearwater, Black-faced Cormorant, Pacific Gull (included above)•Sunderland Bay cliff-stacks (regional 197) and Surfies Point cliff top dunes (regional, 198) are geological sites

of significance66

•Secondary breeding areas on the coast of Phillip Island and Swan Lake are BioSites of State significance (Site 1567) •Little Penguin last recorded breeding at Surf Beach in the 1980s

Social •Area of cultural sensitivity•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (middens) present•Road, car parking available •Diving and surfing locations (adjacent)•Active community environment groups

Economic •Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)•Commercial fishing (adjacent)•Car parking (adjacent)

Issues

•Impact of human disturbance to habitat, roosting and nesting birds•Impact of human disturbance on dunes and flora•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna•Impact of roadways on habitat quality•Impact of unformed pathways on flora, fauna and archaeological sites•Impact of inappropriately located and ageing infrastructure


189 Liaise with BCSC regarding the proposed review of the impact of storm water run-off from roads on cliff stability (SP 2.1.1)


BCSC, landowners

190 Review and upgrade fencing along the front of the dunes

Annual inspection and repair completed

Community groups, DSE


191 Complete a boardwalk between Sunderland Bay Road and Surfies Point to formalise access in this area and protect flora and Short-tailed Shearwaters (SP 2.1.1)

Completed by December 2013 DSE, BCSC, community groups

192 Review dog regulations and possible off-leash dog areas as part of the island-wide access review.

Completed by December 2013 BCSC, DSE, PV, community

9.8 Sub-Area C8: Surfies Point to Bruce AvenueThis Sub-area starts at Surfies Point in the west and continues to Bruce Avenue access track at Forrest Caves in the east. This Sub-area includes Surf Beach and nick-named beach ‘Crazy Birds’ which are located between basalt and calcarenite rock platforms and reefs. The area is popular recreational area. Hooded Plovers and Short-tailed Shearwaters nest along this coast.

Major Values

Environmental •NaturePrint identifies this as an area of some high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values. There are no areas where connectivity can be improved due to the development of the surrounding area•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state

bodies include:IUCN Listed One bird speciesEPBC Protected Six bird species FFG Act Listed One bird species VAL Listed Two plant species Dune Wood Sorrell Oxalis rubens, Austral Trefoil Lotus australis and

nine bird species EVCs of conservation concern

Three plant ‘communities’: Swamp Scrub (endangered), Coastal Tussock Grassland (vulnerable), Coastal Alkaline Scrub/Bird Colony Succulent Herbland Mosaic (vulnerable)

•The area is an important breeding, feeding and/or roosting site for the Short-tailed Shearwater, Hooded Plover and Pacific Gull (included above)•Surfies Point cliff top dunes are a regional geological site of significance (Site 198)67


Social •Area of cultural sensitivity•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (middens) present•Road, car parking available •Surfing locations (adjacent)•Active community environment groups

Economic •Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)•Commercial fishing (adjacent)•Car parking (adjacent)•Built up area, shops close by

Issues

•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds•Impact of human disturbance on dunes and flora•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna•Impact of roadways on habitat quality•Impact of unformed pathways on flora, fauna and archaeological sites•Impact of domestic animals on fauna particularly Hooded Plover, Short-tailed Shearwaters and wallabies





DSE

194 Investigate the need for a boardwalk and staircase to the beach at the end of Bruce Avenue to formalise access in this area and protect flora, archaeological sites and Short-tailed Shearwaters and improve public safety (SP 2.1.1)

Completed by June 2017 DSE, BCSC, local residents

9.9 Sub-Area C9: Forrest CavesThis Sub-area extends from the Bruce Avenue access track in the west to the headland in the east separating Forrest Caves from The Colonnades. Forrest Caves is a small but environmentally significant area with much pressure from recreation and boundary effects. Forrest Caves contains a large Short-tailed Shearwater colony, remnant Moonah (Melaleuca lanceolata) woodland, and is a Hooded Plover breeding beach and wintering site. The caves also have significant cultural heritage.

Major Values

Environmental •NaturePrint identifies this as an area of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values. There are many opportunities to improve habitat and connectivity with the surrounding area•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state

bodies include:IUCN Listed One bird speciesEPBC Protected Twelve bird species FFG Act Listed Four bird species and one plant community, Coast Moonah WoodlandVAL Listed Dune Wood Sorrell Oxalis rubens, Austral Trefoil Lotus australis and nine bird species EVCs of conservation concern

Three plant ‘communities’: Coast Moonah Woodland (endangered), Swamp Scrub (endangered) Coastal Alkaline Scrub/Bird Colony Succulent Herbland Mosaic (vulnerable)

•The area is an important breeding, feeding and/or roosting site for the Short-tailed Shearwater, Hooded Plover and Pacific Gull (included above)•Forrest Bluff and Forest Caves are geological sites of regional significance (Site 199) 69


Social •Area of cultural sensitivity•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (middens) present•Road, car parking and amenities available at Forrest Caves•Surfing locations (adjacent)



Issues

•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds•Impact of human disturbance on dunes and flora•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna•Impact of roadways on habitat quality•Impact of unformed pathways on flora, fauna and archaeological sites•Impact of inappropriate and dated infrastructure on natural values•Ageing toilet block





196 Review amenities infrastructure and the need to upgrade toilet block (SP 2.1.1)

Recommendation submitted by April 2013

Operations and Finance Departments

9.10 Sub-Area C10: The ColonnadesThe Colonnades Sub-area extends from the headland separating Forrest Caves and The Colonnades in the west to approximately 1.2 kilometres east. Columnar basalt in the cliffs gives the beach its name. These basalt cliffs extend along the entire area with a sandy beach below and rock platforms in the west. The Colonnades is an exposed high energy beach used by surfers and fishers. Short-tailed Shearwaters nest along the cliff tops.

Major Values

Environmental •NaturePrint identifies this as an area of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values. There are many opportunities to improve habitat and connectivity with the surrounding area•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state

bodies include:IUCN Listed One bird speciesEPBC Protected Three bird species FFG Act Listed Two bird species VAL Listed Dune Wood Sorrell Oxalis rubens and eight bird species EVCs of conservation concern

Three plant ‘communities’: Swamp Scrub (endangered) Coastal Alkaline Scrub/Bird Colony Succulent Herbland Mosaic (vulnerable), Coastal Dune Scrub/Coastal Dune Grassland Mosaic (depleted)

•The area is an important breeding, feeding and/or roosting site for the Short-tailed Shearwater, Hooded Plover and Pacific Gull (included above)•Forrest Bluff and Caves (including Colonnades) are a geological site of regional significance (Site 199)71

Social •Area of cultural sensitivity•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (middens) present•Road, car parking, beach access•Surfing locations (adjacent)



Issues

•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds•Impact of human disturbance on flora•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna•Impact of domestic animals on fauna•Impact of roadways on habitat quality•Impact of unformed pathways on flora, fauna and archaeological sites•Impact of unleashed dogs on Short-tailed Shearwaters beach-washed during the fledging period (mid-April to May)


197 Develop community group, and liaise with adjacent landowners and BCSC for continuing weed and feral animal control

Three habitat days per annum BCSC, Landcare, volunteers, community groups

198 Include the consideration of a beach access staircase at ‘Aussie Track’ near the Ocean Reach / Beresford Avenue intersection in the island-wide Access Review (SP 1.4)

Completed by December 2013 BCSC, DSE, community

199 Review dog regulations and possible off-leash dog areas or times as part of the island-wide access review

Completed by December 2013 BCSC, DSE, community


10 | Key Area D: Woodlands

The woodland areas within the Nature Parks have all previously been farmed and most were either part or fully donated or purchased by the local community with the assistance of the former Phillip Island Shire Council and the State Government, or a combination of the two. Generally the purpose of these acquisitions was to provide habitat for koalas.

The largest reserve, Oswin Roberts, contains the largest and most intact woodland vegetation on the Island. The Key Area supports a wide range of woodland bird species, reptiles and other mammals such as bats, Brush-tailed Possums and Ring-tailed Possums. Threats include the loss of coarse woody debris, loss of logs (firewood collection) and the loss of hollow-bearing trees as well as the introduction of pathogens such as Cinnamon Fungus Phytophthora cinnamomi. With minimal woodland areas left on Phillip Island it is important to continue work to revegetate, improve and maintain habitats within the woodlands.





200 Commission a vegetation management plan for Oswin Roberts Reserve, Five Ways Reserve and the KCC

Completed report by June 2013 Consultant, FOK

201 Commission an archaeological report for woodland areas including Aboriginal sites, the chicory kiln and former hall

Completed report by June 2017 AAV, PIDHS, BCSC, community

202 Assist with assessing the feasibility of releasing endangered and other ‘missing’ species such as the Southern Brown Bandicoot, Long-nosed Potoroo, Swamp Rat and Southern Emu-wren into the Nature Parks’ woodlands


Research Department, contractors, DSE

203 Commission a vegetation fire risk assessment for all woodland areas not already assessed

Completed report by June 2013 DSE, CFA, BCSC

204 Manage woodland areas to protect the Swift Parrot and Powerful Owl, following the guidelines of the relevant FFG Action Statements

Review action options for each species in Flora and Fauna Guarantee Action Statements and develop a Nature Parks management action plan by June 2015

DSE, volunteers, BLBC

0 400m200Scale 1:10,000North



205 Removal of unused fences, posts, pickets and tree guards from woodland areas

Completed by June 2014 Volunteers

206 Monitor VROT species and protect from weed invasion

Review VROT populations in spring 2013

Contractors, volunteers

207 Develop a management strategy for preventing overnight parking / camping

Strategy developed by June 2013 BCSC

10.1 Sub-Area D1: Ventnor Koala ReserveThe reserve was purchased in the 1940s for the preservation of koalas and originally managed by the Phillip Island Koala Reserve Committee of Management. It forms the catchment for Salt Water Creek, the major creek on Phillip Island. The reserve was completely cleared prior to the 1970s. Much of the reserve is in poor condition with large areas planted with Manna Gum Eucalyptus viminalis as koala feed. There is a small area of Grassy Woodland in the north-east of the reserve which is in good condition and the Damp Swamp Scrub in the south-west corner is the best example within the Nature Parks72.

Major Values

Environmental •NaturePrint identifies this as an area of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values. There are opportunities to improve habitat and connectivity with the surrounding area especially along Saltwater Creek•Many species observed in the Sub-area are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and

state bodiesIUCN Listed One bird speciesEPBC Protected Twenty eight bird species FFG Act Listed One bird species VAL Listed Creeping Rush Juncus revolutus, Pale-flowered Cranesbill Geranium sp. 3, Wetland

Blown-grass Lachnagrostis filiformis var. 2 and three bird speciesEVCs of conservation concern

Seven plant ‘communities’: Plains Grassy Woodland (endangered), Swamp Scrub (endangered), Swampy Woodland (endangered), Tall Marsh (endangered), Spike-sedge Wetland (undetermined), Brackish Herbland (rare), Brackish Aquatic Herbland (rare)

•The area is an important breeding, feeding and roosting site for bush birds and birds of prey•Ninety nine birds species were recorded in the reserve between 2001 and 2005•It is the catchment for the Salt Water Creek, the major creek on Phillip Island

Social •No public access permitted due to environmental sensitivity and human safety

Economic •N/A

Issues

•Impact of the water impoundment on floristic values•Potential impact of storm water and road run-off from the new housing development opposite the reserve and road widening on

water quality and habitat values•Impacts of weeds on flora•Loss of floristic diversity due to biomass accumulation in woodland areas•Low floristic diversity of aquatic and understorey species•Impacts of illegal firewood collection on flora and fauna•Impact of plantation and non-indigenous trees



208 Investigate the occurrence of acid sulphate soils (SP 2.1.1)


Consultant

209 Prioritise and undertake management actions outlined in the Ventnor Koala Reserve Vegetation Master Plan (2008) and the Phillip Island Wetland Survey (2008)

Actions prioritised by June 2013 FOK, DSE, volunteers

10.2 Sub-Area D2: Five Ways Reserve The Reserve was once privately owned before being purchased and donated by the ratepayers of Phillip Island to the then Phillip Island Shire Council for habitat conservation. Significant vegetation within Five Ways Reserve is comprised of old trees or areas of high habitat or conservation value.

Major Values


bodies include:IUCN Listed N/AEPBC Protected Four bird species FFG Act Listed N/AVAL Listed Southern Blue Gum Eucalyptus globulus ssp. Globulus. Pale-fruit Ballart (Dwarf

Cherry) Exocarpos strictusEVCs of conservation concern

Two plant ‘communities’: Plains Grassy Woodland (endangered), Swamp Scrub (endangered)

•The area is an important breeding, feeding and roosting site for Little Forest Bats Vespadelus vulturnus•Rhyll Swamp and the Koala Reserves is a BioSite of state significance (Site 1568)•54 significant trees have been identified along with five areas of significant vegetation•Buffer zone for KCC•Former locality for the Long-nosed Potoroo Potorous tridactylus

Social •FOK assists with revegetation•Small car park available on Smiths Beach Road•Tower in place with Phillip Island’s emergency services communication equipment in operation

Economic •Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)

Issues

•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds and mammals•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna particularly pine trees•Safety of wildlife transiting to other reserves•Fire risk due to adjoining residents


210 Have the boundary formally surveyed and where necessary repair and/or construct fencing along the boundaries of the reserve (SP 2.1.1)

Completed by June 2017 Consultant

211 Revegetate following weed removal with indigenous species, in particular grasses, lilies, sedges and herbs

Three habitat days per annum held FOK, volunteers

212 Investigate the practicality of conducting mosaic burns within the reserve


DSE, CFA, BCSC, neighbours


213 Liaise with neighbours regarding control of problem weeds bordering the reserve, particularly gorse

Completed by June 2013 BCSC, VicRoads, Landcare, landowners

214 Investigate the installation of overhanging ropes across the Phillip Island Tourist Road to allow for the safe movement of possums from the KCC to Five Ways Reserve.


VicRoads, DSE

10.3 Sub-Area D3: Koala Conservation Centre (public area)The Koala Conservation Centre (KCC) public area consists of two Crown Land parcels: the David Forrest Reserve donated to the Phillip Island Shire Council in 1956 for the ‘propagation and management of wildlife’ and an additional area with scattered mature Eucalypts purchased by the Crown in 1990. The KCC makes an important contribution to research on the koala through partnerships with various universities. A visitor center provides a hub for school and ranger talks and enhances public education on the conservation of woodlands and of the koala.

Vegetation within the public areas of the KCC is mostly disturbed with a relatively intact section on the western side. Aged, hollow bearing, eucalypts are present throughout the Sub-area making it the most important area within the Nature Parks for hollow and cavity nesting wildlife including Galahs and other parrots as well as bats.

Major Values

Environmental •NaturePrint identifies this as an area of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values. There are opportunities to improve habitat and connectivity with the surrounding area •Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state

bodies include:IUCN Listed One bird speciesEPBC Protected Eighteen bird species FFG Act Listed Two bird speciesVAL Listed Three plant species Southern Blue Gum Eucalyptus globulus ssp. globulus. Pale-fruit

Ballart (Dwarf Cherry) Exocarpos strictus, Slender Bitter Pea Cardamine tenuifolia and two bird species


Two plant ‘communities’: Plains Grassy Woodland (endangered), Swamp Scrub (endangered)

EnvironmentalContd.

•The Sub-area has a large number of mature trees with tree hollows that are used as nesting sites by bats, Galahs and other parrots•The Sub-area is an important feeding area for bats•Rhyll Swamp and the Koala Reserves is a BioSite of state significance (Site 1568)

Social •The KCC Visitor Centre provides public facilities including toilets, souvenirs, dining opportunities and interpretation•FOK assist with koala counts and revegetation works•Community Bush Bank

Economic •Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)•KCC Visitor Centre•Community Bush Bank •Captive population of koalas

Issues

•Impact of human visitation on soils (compaction), fauna and flora •Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna•Potential impact of fire on flora, fauna and visitors•Preservation of high value tree hollows in public areas•Potential impact of human visitors on feeding wallabies•Potential impact of visitors on close viewing koalas•Potential impact of close viewing koalas on visitors•Danger of limbs falling from trees in high winds



215 Continue to restore biodiversity within the KCC

Three habitat days per annum FOK, BMBB and volunteers

216 Preserve tree limbs with hollows by fencing off whenever possible

All hollows removed for visitor protection replaced by nest boxes

NA

217 Manage koala populations to maintain genetic diversity

Genetic plan completed by June 2015

DSE

218 Captive koalas to be managed according to the Code of Practice for the Public Display of Animals (CPPDA) (DPI)

No breaches of the Code of Practice or the Act

DPI, DSE, Operations Department

10.4 Sub-Area D4: Koala Conservation Centre (Plantation, Wetlands and Surrounds)This area includes the plantations established in the early 1990s to feed the captive koalas at the KCC. It also includes two wetland areas as well as the area with the chicory kiln adjacent to the plantation that the Crown purchased in 2003 due to its heritage and environmental values.

Major Values

Environmental •NaturePrint identifies this as an area of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values. There are opportunities to improve habitat and connectivity with the surrounding area •Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state

bodies include:IUCN Listed N/AEPBC Protected Seven bird species and one wetland plant species, River Swamp Wallaby Grass

Amphibromus fluitansFFG Act Listed Seven bird species and two plant speciesVAL Listed River Swamp Wallaby Grass Amphibromus fluitans and Wavy Swamp Wallaby-grass

A. sinuatus and two bird speciesEVCs of conservation concern

Three plant ‘communities’: Swamp Scrub (endangered), Aquatic Herbland (endangered), Spike-sedge Wetland (rare)

• Rhyll Swamp and the Koala Reserves is a BioSite of state significance (Site 1568)

Social •Chicory kiln •Former hall •No public access to this area currently

Economic •Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)•Plantations for koala feed

Issues

•Potential impact of drought and fire on the koala food plantations•Risk of genetic pollution from Honey Myrtle Melaleuca armillaris•Impact of roadways on habitat quality•Impacts of Swamp Wallabies on feed plantations•Potential impact of viruses on eucalypts and other vegetation



219 Remove Honey Myrtle Melaleuca armillaris and replant with indigenous species

Completed by June 2013 FOK, volunteers

220 Remove non-indigenous koala food trees that are not required

Completed by June 2017 NA

221 Eradicate high and very high rated wetland weeds from the edge of the wetlands and revegetate where needed

Completed by June 2017 FOK, volunteers

222 Revitalise the koala plantations Completed by June 2017

223 Replant grassy areas of CA 2028 with woodland species including VAL species to improve habitat for Swift Parrot and Powerful Owl

25% planting completed by June 2017

FOK, volunteers, DSE

10.5 Sub-Area D5: Oswin Roberts ReserveFlorence Oswin Roberts donated approximately 50 hectares for koala conservation in the 1950s. The remaining area was purchased from family members following her death in 1957. This Sub-area contains the largest, most intact woodland vegetation on the Island. The Sub-area is generally in very good floristic condition with low weed index ratings. The central section has significantly higher floristic species diversity, including many herbs not present toward the margins of the area. It forms part of the vegetation and pedestrian/bicycle link between the KCC and Rhyll.

Major Values

Environmental •NaturePrint identifies this as an area of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values. There are opportunities to improve habitat and connectivity with the surrounding area including adjacent farmland and the Phillip Island cemetery.•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state

bodies include:IUCN Listed N/AEPBC Protected Nineteen bird species FFG Act Listed Two bird species VAL Listed Southern Blue Gum Eucalyptus globulus ssp. Globulus, Pale-fruit Ballart (Dwarf

Cherry) Exocarpos strictus, Currant Wood Monotoca glauca and three bird speciesEVCs of conservation concern

Three plant ‘communities’: Plains Grassy Woodland (endangered) and Swamp Scrub (endangered)

•The Sub-area has a number of mature trees with tree hollows that are used as nesting sites by bats, Galahs and parrots•The Sub-area is an important feeding area for bats and koalas•Rhyll Swamp and the Koala Reserves is a BioSite of state significance (Site 1568)

Social •Pedestrian and bicycle pathways•Area of cultural sensitivity (near Rhyll Swamp)•Active friends group

Economic •Roads, bicycle and walking paths (in and adjacent)•Car parking


Issues

•Impact of human visitation on soils (compaction), fauna and flora •Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna•Potential impact of fire on flora, fauna and visitors•Preservation of high value hollows in public areas•Risk of introduced of pathogens such as Phytophthora cinnamomi from cyclists and walkers•Illegal dumping of rubbish and garden waste in car parks•Illegal overnight camping / parking


224 Monitor pedestrian and cyclists’ use of shared pathways including:Documentation of any complaints to identify user patterns and issues

Inform the island-wide paths and tracks assessment by December 2014

BCSC, user groups

10.6 Sub-Area D6: Conservation HillFormerly known as Sandgate Farm, Conservation Hill Reserve came into public ownership through a combination of donations of land and money supplemented by a State Government contribution.

Conservation Hill includes land running along the southern rim of Rhyll Inlet. It provides opportunities for walking and viewing the mangrove wetland at close range from a viewing platform.

Major Values

Environmental •NaturePrint identifies this as an area of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values. There are opportunities to improve habitat and connectivity with the surrounding area including adjacent farmland•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state

bodies include:IUCN Listed N/AEPBC Protected Fourteen bird species FFG Act Listed Two bird species VAL Listed Marsh Saltbush Atriplex paludosa subsp. paludosa and Creeping Rush Juncus

revolutus and nine bird speciesEVCs of conservation concern

Six plant ‘communities’: Damp Sands Herb-rich Woodland (vulnerable), Grassy Woodland (endangered), Coastal Tussock Grassland (vulnerable), Grassy Woodland/Coastal Tussock Grassland Mosaic (vulnerable), Damp Melaleuca Scrub (undetermined), Swamp Scrub (endangered), Estuarine Scrub (endangered)

•Rhyll Inlet is a geological site of state significance73

•Conservation Hill is a BioSite of regional significance (Site 4740)•Former locality for the Swamp Rat Rattus lutreolus and Southern Emu-wren Stipiturus malachurus

Social •Area of cultural heritage sensitivity•Car parking, toilet facilities and pedestrian/bicycle paths are provided

Economic •Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)•Nature Parks residence and old sheds


Issues

•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds•Impact of human disturbance to cultural sites•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna•Impact of roadways on habitat quality•Impact of stormwater runoff on upper car park•Illegal dumping of rubbish and garden waste in car parks•Illegal overnight camping / parking


225 Prioritise and undertake the actions outlined in the ‘Conservation Hill and Rhyll Cricket Ground Native Vegetation Management Plan 2011’

Prioritisation of actions completed by June 2013

FOK, Volunteers

226 Consider closing the upper car park to reduce erosion and re-vegetate

Considered as part of island wide Access Policy by June 2013

BCSC, community


11 | Key Area E: Rhyll Inlet And Silverleaves Beach

The wetlands, beaches and mudflats of this Key Area support internationally significant populations of wetland birds including migratory shorebirds. Much of the area is included in the Western Port Ramsar site and the area and its fauna are protected under a number of international treaties and federal and state legislation including: the Japan Australia Migratory Bird Agreement (JAMBA), the China Australia Migratory Bird Agreement (CAMBA), the Republic of Korea Australia Migratory Bird Agreement (ROKAMBA) and the EPBC Act 1999, and require active management protection.

Observation Point is the eighth largest roost for shorebirds in Western Port and the most important for medium to large shorebirds74. They roost on the sandy spit, a rocky islet locally named ‘Ghetto Rocks’, and on rock platforms at the base of Rhyll cliffs. Most of the shorebirds feed from mudflats between Rhyll and Churchill Island at low tide (Churchill Tidal Flats). They feed on the seagrass itself or associated marine invertebrates75.


227 Implement the actions of the Rhyll SMA Management Statement for those areas within the Nature Parks (Rhyll Special Management Area Management Statement, DSE. 2006) (SP 2.1.1) including investigation of public access options

Completed by June 2017 BirdLife Australia, community, WPB, DSE

228 Commission a vegetation management plan, archaeological survey and wildfire management assessment for this key area


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229 Continue grants partnership with PPWPCMA and other agencies

One joint agency level grant application every three years

PPWPCMA, PV, local councils around Western Port

230 Work with PV to enforce boating speed restrictions

Boats obey speed limits PV

231 Help develop a migratory birds strategy for Rhyll Inlet, the transfer station site and wetlands (SP 2.1.1)

Strategy completed by 2017 Research Department, DSE, BirdLife Bass Coast

11.1 Sub-Area E1: Rhyll and Rowell SwampsRhyll Wetland and Rowell Swamps are freshwater wetlands. Rhyll Swamp is the largest wetland on Phillip Island, and is an important breeding site for waterfowl, wading birds and cormorants.

In the 1960s, water levels in Rhyll wetland were modified to enhance waterfowl habitat. Prolonged waterlogging has been linked to a dieback of Swamp Paperbark in the wetland, and a siphon system has been installed to enable the water level to be lowered. Access to both reserves is restricted to enhance the habitat values of both sites. Both sites are zoological sites of significance76.

Major Values

Environmental •NaturePrint identifies this as an area of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values. There are opportunities to improve habitat and connectivity with the surrounding area including adjacent farmland•Species observed in the Sub-area listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state

bodies include:IUCN Listed N/AEPBC Protected Twelve bird species FFG Act Listed Three bird species VAL Listed Currant-wood Monotoca glauca, One-flower Early Nancy Wurmbea uniflora and

Wetland Blown-grass Lachnagrostis filiformis and eight bird speciesEVCs of conservation concern

Nine plant ‘communities’: Wetland formation (endangered), Swamp Scrub (endangered), Plains Grassy Woodland (endangered), Reed Swamp (endangered), Brackish Grassland (endangered), Estuarine Flats Grassland (endangered), Swamp Scrub/Wet Heathland Mosaic (endangered), Damp Sands Herb-rich Woodland (vulnerable) and Sedge Wetland (vulnerable)

•The area is an important breeding, feeding or roosting site for wetland birds including the Australian White Ibis, Straw-necked Ibis, Royal Spoonbill, Pied Cormorant, Musk Duck and Chestnut Teal•Rhyll Swamp and Koala Reserves are a BioSite of state significance (Site 1568)77

•Rhyll Swamp is a geological site of regional significance (Site 179)78

Social •Area of cultural sensitivity•Walking tracks adjacent to Sub-area•Roads adjacent to Sub-area

Economic •N/A

ISSUES

•Impacts of human disturbance on nesting, feeding and roosting birds•Impact of weeds, feral and domestic animals on flora and fauna•Security of water supply for Rhyll and Rowell Swamp


232 Undertake a hydrological study of Rhyll and Rowell Swamps and develop a formal management plan for the water regime (SP 2.1.1)

Plan completed by June 2017 Consultant

233 Manage as a conservation zone, with access by permission or permit for management and research purposes only

Enforce the Nature Parks regulations and determinations to minimise disturbance to flora and fauna

NA


234 Prioritise and undertake the management recommendations for Rhyll and Rowell Swamp in ‘Phillip Island Wetland Survey’79

Prioritisation of actions completed by June 2013

Volunteers

235 Monitor VROT plant species and protect from weed invasion

Re-sample monitoring quadrats in spring 2014

Consultant

11.2 Sub-Area E2: Former Rhyll Landfill and Transfer StationIn 1997 the Department of Sustainability and Environment purchased the former Rhyll Landfill site from the Bass Coast Shire Council in order to strengthen and support the protection of the Rhyll Inlet saltmarsh. A lease agreement allows Bass Coast Shire Council to continue to use the site as a transfer station – with all waste transferred to Grantville - until the end of June 2013.

Major Values

Environmental •Species observed in the Sub-area listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state bodies include:IUCN Listed N/AEPBC Protected Three bird species FFG Act Listed N/A VAL Listed One bird speciesEVCs of conservation concern

N/A

•The area is a breeding, feeding and /or roosting site for the Cape Barren Goose and Little Raven (included above)•Included in BioSite 1564 - secondary foraging areas of waders in Western Port Bay

Social •Leased by BCSC to provide a refuse transfer station for Phillip Island residents until 30 June 2013

Economic •Leased by BCSC to provide a refuse transfer station until 30 June 2013

Issues

•Potential impacts of leachate from the former landfill site on surrounding ecological values•Impact of weeds spreading from the former land fill site into surrounding native vegetation•Impact of litter being blown from the site on the surrounding saltmarsh and fauna•Potential increase in litter being left at other Nature Parks locations when transfer station is closed in June 2013.


236 Oversee the revegetation of the landfill site by BCSC, ensuring the use of locally collected indigenous seed and pathogen free capping and soil

Completed by June 2017 BCSC, DSE

237 Help ensure the implementation of the approved re-vegetation plan is achieved by BCSC

Help ensure the revegetation milestones are completed on time

DSE, BCSC, EPA

238 Consider realigning the walk and cycling path from Conservation Hill to the Oswin Roberts Reserve, providing a buffer to breeding Royal Spoonbills in Rhyll Wetland and an improved road crossing

Reviewed by June 2017 Community, BCSC

239 Ensure that the approved Post Closure Plan is implemented by BCSC

Monitor implementation of the plan starting June 2013

BCSC, DSE, EPA


11.3 Sub-Area E3: Rhyll InletThe beaches and mudflats of Rhyll Inlet support internationally significant populations of shorebirds. The Inlet is directly affected by the quality of its catchment. Over recent years there have been many developments and changes associated with this catchment. Outfall drains from east Cowes, including the industrial estate, drains into the inlet. Poor agricultural practice and location of the Rhyll Landfill Site has damaged the fragile saltmarsh and mangrove areas. Freshwater input and maintenance of the water table are essential to preserve the character of the saltmarsh and mangrove vegetation80. Rhyll Inlet is also a site of geomorphological, zoological and botanical significance.

Major Values

Environmental •NaturePrint identifies this as an area of predominantly high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values•Species observed in the Sub-area listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state

bodies include:IUCN Listed Three bird speciesEPBC Protected Thirty one bird species FFG Act Listed Five bird species and two plant species VAL Listed Seventeen bird species and Creeping Rush Juncus revolutus, Marsh Saltbush Atriplex

paludosa ssp. paludosa, Yellow Sea-lavender Limonium australe and Grey Mangrove Avicennia marina ssp. australasica


One plant ‘community’: Swamp Scrub (endangered), Plains Grassy Woodland (endangered), Mangrove Shrubland/Estuarine Flats Grassland Mosaic (endangered), Reed Swamp (endangered)

•Two species are listed on the Advisory List of Rare or Threatened Plants (state)•The area is an important breeding, feeding or roosting site for shorebirds, including the Eastern Curlew (IUCN

Red Data Book species), Great Knot (IUCN Red Data Book species), Hooded Plover, Red-capped Plover, Bar-tailed Godwit, Masked Lapwing and Pied Oystercatcher, waterbirds and other species such as the Cape Barren Goose (included above)•The area of mudflats adjacent to this Sub-area is an important feeding area for the Bar-tailed Godwit (included

above), sandy beaches are important feeding areas for Hooded Plover, Pied Oystercatcher and Red-capped Plover chicks•Rhyll Inlet - The Nits (Site 178) and Rhyll Quarry (Site 179) are sites of state geological significance81

•Rhyll Inlet is a BioSite of National / State Significance (Sites 4730 and 1564), as an important roosting and foraging area for waders in Western Port•Potential nursery area for fish species

Social •Area of cultural heritage sensitivity•Restricted public access, mangrove boardwalk•Walking paths and amenities adjacent to Sub-area at Conservation Hill•Active community groups – BirdLife Bass Coast, Victorian Wader Study Group, BirdLife Australia•Fishing and boating

Economic •Farmland•Built up areas (adjacent)

Issues

•Impacts of human disturbance on nesting, feeding and roosting birds•Impact of weeds and feral and domestic animals on flora and fauna•Potential leaching from Sub-area E2 affecting habitat values•Impacts of sea level rise on habitat including saltmarsh, mangroves, mudflats and sand spits•Impacts of personalised water craft and yachts on roosting birds and mudflats•Impacts of human disturbance and vegetation clearance on fish nursery areas


240 Liaise with BCSC regarding sub-divisions adjacent to the Sub-area (SP 2.1.1)


BCSC

241 Continue to improve the habitat values of the Ramsar coast through weed and pest animal management (SP 2.1.1)

One funding application undertaken per grant cycle

PPWPCMA, landowners, volunteers


242 Prioritise and undertake the management actions outlined in the Rhyll Special Management Area Management Statement82

Actions relevant to the Nature Parks prioritised by June 2014 and undertaken by June 2017


243 Investigate the development of buffer zones to protect coastal saltmarsh and mangroves adjacent to Rhyll Inlet (SP 2.1.1, 2.1.3)


DSE, BCSC

244 Monitor VROT plant species, and protect from weed invasion


Consultant

11.4 Sub-Area E4: Silverleaves – Banksia WoodlandThe Coast Banksia Woodland along the coast from the end of the Silverleaves housing estate to Observation Point is in fair condition. The woodlands support populations of Eastern Water Rat Hydromys chrysogaster and Swamp Wallaby Wallabia bicolor. No detailed flora studies.

Major Values


bodies include:IUCN Listed One bird speciesEPBC Protected Eleven bird species FFG Act Listed One bird species VAL Listed One bird species EVCs of conservation concern

Three plant ‘community’: Mangrove Shrubland/Estuarine Flats Grassland Mosaic (endangered) Coastal Banksia Woodland (vulnerable), Swampy Woodland (depleted)

•Rhyll Inlet - The Nits is a geological site of state significance (Site 178)83

•Observation Point (including the banksia woodland) is a BioSite of national significance (Site 4730)84

Social •Area of cultural heritage sensitivity•Pathways, car park and roads•Community environment groups present

Economic •Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)

Issues

•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna•Impacts of storm surge and sea level rise on habitat and cultural assets


245 Liaise with BCSC regarding sub-divisions adjacent to the Sub-area (SP 2.1.1)

Opportunities to work with key stakeholders to create buffer zones explored.

BCSC

246 Continue to improve the habitat values of the banksia woodland

One funding application undertaken per grant cycle

PPWPCMA, volunteers

247 Prioritise and undertake the management actions outlined in the Rhyll SMA Management Statement (DSE 2006).




11.5 Sub-Area E5: Silverleaves BeachThe Silverleaves Beach is approximately five kilometres long, running from Erehwon Point in Cowes to Observation Point. Only the area east of the housing estate is within the Nature Parks, and extends off shore from the high tide line. At high tide the water is relatively deep close to the beach while at low tide sand flats are exposed. It is one of the most successful nesting beaches for the Hooded Plover on Phillip Island in recent years.

Major Values

Environmental •NaturePrint identifies this as an area of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values•Species observed in the Sub-area listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state

bodies include:IUCN Listed Three bird speciesEPBC Protected One bird species FFG Act Listed One bird species VAL Listed Two bird species and four plant speciesEVCs of conservation concern

N/A

•The area is an important breeding, feeding or roosting site for Hooded Plover, Pied Oystercatcher and Red-capped Plover and Masked Lapwing •Observation Point (including part of Silverleaves Beach) is a BioSite of national significance (Site 4730)85

•Rhyll Inlet - The Nits is a geological site of state significance (Site 178)86

Social •Area of cultural sensitivity•Beach walking•Recreational fishing (mostly from boats)

Economic •N/A

ISSUES

•Impacts of human disturbance on nesting, feeding and roosting birds•Impact of weeds, feral and domestic animals on flora and fauna•Impacts of increased storm surge and sea level rise on habitat and cultural assets


248 Prioritise and undertake the management actions outlined in the Rhyll SMA Statement (DSE 2006)



249 Continue to protect nesting Hooded Plover and other beach nesting birds

Two successful Hooded Plover nests per annum

Local community, volunteers


11.6 Sub-Area E6: Observation Point and Ghetto RocksObservation Point is an active sand spit on the northern shore of Rhyll Inlet. The Point is one of the most important roosting areas for migratory birds in Western Port and is BioSite of national significance due to the number of Bar-tailed Godwit, Whimbrel and Pied Oystercatcher that use the area.

Observation Point is highly likely to be affected by sea-level rise (probability 99.63 per cent). Most of the Point and Inlet will be inundated and shoreline retreat will not be possible due to urban development. Key feeding areas in Rhyll Inlet and the mudflats between Rhyll and Churchill Island may also be lost.

Major Values

Environmental •NaturePrint identifies this as an area of predominantly high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values•Species observed in the Sub-area listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state

bodies include:IUCN Listed Three bird speciesEPBC Protected Forty four bird species FFG Act Listed Nine bird species VAL Listed Twenty two bird species and four plant speciesEVCs of conservation concern N/A•The area is an important breeding, feeding or roosting site for shorebirds, including the Eastern Curlew (IUCN

Red Data List species), Great Knot (IUCN Red Data List species), Hooded Plover, Red-capped Plover, Bar-tailed Godwit, Masked Lapwing and Pied Oystercatcher, waterbirds and other species such as the Cape Barren Goose (included above)•Observation Point is a BioSite of national significance (Site 4730)•Rhyll Inlet - The Nits is a geological site of state significance (Site 178)88

Social •Area of cultural sensitivity•Beach walking and jogging•Fishing and boating

Economic •N/A

Issues

•Impacts of human disturbance on nesting, feeding and roosting birds•Impact of weeds, feral and domestic animals on flora and fauna•Impacts of increased storm surge and sea level rise on habitat and cultural assets


250 Investigate the effectiveness of different methods to minimise human disturbance to the network of shorebird roosts and nesting areas in Rhyll Inlet

Minimise disturbance at critical times in the shorebirds’ annual cycle. Complete investigation by December 2013 and implement actions


251 Prioritise and undertake the management actions outlined in the Rhyll Special Management Area Management Statement89



252 Continue to protect breeding Hooded Plover and other beach nesting birds

Two successful Hooded Plover nests per annum

Community, volunteers

253 Ensure continued ranger presence to provide education and interpretation to visitors and enforce regulations when necessary (SP 2.1.1)

Daily patrols by Nature Parks rangers during critical periods in the shorebirds annual cycle

PV, BCSC, DSE

254 Continue to monitor Ghetto Rocks for Pacific Oysters and other marine pests (SP 2.1.1)

Annual inspections of Ghetto Rocks for marine pests

DPI, DSE, Museum of Victoria, PV


12 | Key Area F: Churchill Island and Surrounds




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Connected by bridge to Phillip Island, Churchill Island is a unique area of the Nature Parks with significant cultural values, including a historic homestead, cottage and fruit trees (see European Heritage). While Churchill Island has a history of being cleared and farmed since the 1850s, it continues to have important natural values, including Moonah trees, mangroves, saltmarsh and birdlife. Its historic farm gardens are maintained as part of the Island’s cultural heritage.

There is potential for a museum–standard exhibition space on Churchill Island, including the curation of the historic collections. A pre-feasibility analysis of this proposal will be undertaken during the life of this plan. It is expected that the pre-feasibility analysis will consider expanded customer service facilities, protection of Indigenous and European heritage and enhancement of the Western Port Biosphere.

Churchill Island and the Phillip Island coastline (Sub-areas F1, F3) lie within the internationally recognised Western Port Ramsar Site. The eastern end of Churchill Island and the north-eastern coast of Phillip Island (Sub-areas F1, part F3) also adjoin the Churchill Island Marine National Park, one of only thirteen marine national parks in Victoria.

An area known as ‘Fishers Wetland’ (Sub-area F4) near the entrance to Churchill Island is being restored to a natural state, with significant replanting of indigenous species and weed removal.

Newhaven Wetland (Sub-area F5) is a freshwater wetland south of the township of Newhaven which supports a range of wildlife but is subject to significant weed infestation.

Vegetation surveys and some fauna surveys are available for Fishers Wetland.


255 Develop a Key Area Plan Complete surveys by end of June 2016 and the plan by 2017

BirdLife Australia, community, WPB, DSE

256 Actively engage volunteers in management of the area including weed control

Three joint habitat days per year Newhaven Coastcare Group, FOCIS, school groups, volunteers

257 Ensure informal tracks are included in island-wide access review (SP 2.1.1)


BCSC, community, landowners

12 Sub-Area F1: Churchill Island Woodlands and CoastChurchill Island is mostly farmland, with the exception of small areas of Moonah Woodland in a semi intact state around the coast. Saltmarsh and mangroves fringe the southern tip of the Island.

A revegetation program has been undertaken on the northern end of the Island and is now maturing. The Island remains rabbit and fox free and progressive removal of non-indigenous species and planting of indigenous plants, surrounding the historic areas using original seed stock, is ongoing.

Major Values

Environmental •NaturePrint identifies this as an area of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values•Species observed in the Sub-area listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state

bodies include:IUCN Listed N/AEPBC Protected Nine bird species FFG Act Listed Three bird species VAL Listed Two bird species and Creeping Rush Juncus revolutus, Marsh Saltbush Atriplex

paludosa ssp. paludosa, Yellow Sea-lavender Limonium australe, Salt Lawrenica Lawrencia spicata and Grey Mangrove Avicennia marina ssp. australasica


One plant ‘community’ (EVC’s) is listed as of conservation concern: Coast Moonah Woodland (endangered)

•The area is an important breeding, feeding or roosting site for shorebirds, including the Masked Lapwing and Pied Oystercatcher, waterbirds and other species such as the Cape Barren Goose•The area is an important feeding area for the Cape Barren Goose•Churchill Island is geological site of regional significance (Site 173)90

•Churchill Island is a BioSite of national significance (Site 4739)91


Social •Pathways provide public access•Significant views of Western Port from pathways•Churchill Island is included on the Victorian Heritage Register and Register of the National Estate•Area of cultural heritage sensitivity

Economic •Churchill Island Café •Churchill Island Heritage Farm•Pathways provide public access

Issues

•Impacts of human disturbance on nesting, feeding and roosting birds•Impact of weeds and feral and domestic animals on flora and fauna•Lack of recruitment in Moonah woodland•Retention of Churchill Island as rabbit and fox free•Carrying capacity (number of visitors)•Risk to bicyclists travelling from the end of the bridge to the homestead from car and bus traffic


257 Revegetate southern tip of Churchill Island to protect saltmarsh and mangrove communities

5,000 plants grown and planted by June 2017

FOCIS, Newhaven Coastcare Group, volunteers

258 Enhance Moonah woodland 20 Moonah seedlings planted each year

FOCIS, Newhaven Coastcare Group, volunteers


Re-map populations in spring 2013 Consultant

260 Investigate the feasibility of a boardwalk from the end of the bridge to the cattle grid

Separation of bicyclists and pedestrian traffic from cars

Consultants, Operations Department

12.2 Sub-Area F2: Churchill Island Historic FarmThe historic working farm provides a Visitor Centre with information on the history of the Island, an historic homestead and cottage which can be viewed by visitors, gift shop, amenities and café.

Major Values

Environmental •Species observed in the Sub-area listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state bodies include:IUCN Listed N/AEPBC Protected Nine bird species FFG Act Listed Three bird species VAL Listed Two bird species EVCs of conservation concern

N/A

•The area is an important breeding, feeding or roosting site for the Masked Lapwing and the Cape Barren Goose (included above)•Churchill Island is geological site of regional significance (Site 173)93

Social •Pathways provide public access•Significant views of Western Port from pathways•Churchill Island is included on the Register of the National Estate and Victorian Heritage Register94

•Area of cultural heritage sensitivity

Economic •Churchill Island Café •Churchill Island heritage farm including farm animals, historic machinery, historic buildings and fruit trees•Pathways provide public access•Community events •Captive population of Red-necked Wallabies


Issues

•Impacts of human and domestic animal disturbance on nesting, feeding and roosting birds•Impact of weeds and feral and domestic animals on flora and fauna outside the Sub-area•Potential impact of herbicides and pesticides used for farm purposes on native flora and fauna

No. Sub area actions Goal Partners

261 Limit the use of herbicides, fertilisers and pesticides so as not to damage surrounding natural areas such as Moonah woodland or affect nesting birds feeding on insects and seeds (SP 2.1.1)

Review the use of herbicides, pesticides and fertilisers annually


262 Protect tree hollows for nesting Galahs and other parrots

Assess tree hollows before works commence


263 Maintain dams for use by waterfowl Water quality of dams is suitable for wildlife use


264 Protect nesting Masked Lapwings, Cape Barren Geese and other native birds from farm activities and visitors

Maintenance of native bird populations

Operations and Marketing Departments

265 Farm and captive animals including Clydesdale horses, sheep-dogs, Highland cattle, sheep, ducks, chickens and peacocks and Red-necked Wallabies will be managed according to the Code of Practice for the Public Display of Animals (CPPDA) and the Livestock Management Act 2010

No breaches of the Code of Practise or the Act



12.3 Sub-Area F3: Rhyll to Churchill Road Saltmarsh and Swan BayThe Sub-area and adjacent mudflats from Rhyll to Churchill Road are within the Western Port Ramsar site and support internationally significant populations of shorebirds. Adjacent mudflats form part of the Churchill Island Marine National Park and Rhyll Special Management Area. Small remnant patches of Moonah Woodland exist along the coast. The largest of these extends west from the end of Churchill Island Road for approximately one kilometre, the most westerly 400 metre section being in excellent condition. The area under the Nature Parks’ management is a narrow linear coastal strip which increases the impacts from areas outside the Nature Parks and makes effective long term management difficult. Some buffering is provided by saltmarsh areas on private property and the Churchill Island Marine National Park along some of the coastline.

Major Values

Environmental •NaturePrint identifies this as an area of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values. There are opportunities to improve habitat and connectivity with the surrounding area including Scenic Estate and adjacent farmland, but development in the area has impacted on Natural Values in some patches. The data set for this area is poor•Species observed in the Sub-area listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state

bodies include:IUCN Listed One bird speciesEPBC Protected Eight bird species FFG Act Listed One bird species and one plant speciesVAL Listed Six bird species and Creeping Rush Juncus revolutus, Marsh Saltbush Atriplex paludosa

ssp. paludosa, Yellow Sea-lavender Limonium australe, Salt Lawrenica Lawrencia spicata and Grey Mangrove Avicennia marina ssp. australasica


One plant ‘community’ (EVC) is listed as of conservation concern: Coast Moonah Woodland (endangered)

•The area is an important breeding, feeding or roosting site for shorebirds, including the Bar-tailed Godwit, Masked Lapwing and Pied Oystercatcher, waterbirds and other species such as the Cape Barren Goose (included above) and Black Swan•The area of mudflats adjacent to this Sub-area is an important feeding area for the Bar-tailed Godwit

(included above)•Swan Corner (regional, 174), Chambers Pt. to Long Pt. (state, 175) and Koolyns - Silurian Outcrop (state, 176)

are geological sites of significance •The Sub-area abuts the Churchill Island Marine National Park

Social •No public access to saltmarsh and mangrove areas•Area of cultural heritage sensitivity

Economic •Farmland

Issues

•Impacts of human disturbance on nesting, feeding and roosting birds•Impact of weeds and feral and domestic livestock on flora and fauna•Encroachment affecting habitat values•Impacts of sea level rise on habitat•Impact of informal paths on habitat and listed flora



266 Continue to liaise with BCSC regarding sub-divisions adjacent to the Sub-area (SP 2.1.1)


BCSC, Landowners

267 Continue to improve the habitat values of the Ramsar coast including mangroves and saltmarsh vegetation

One joint funding application per grant cycle

PPWPCMA, volunteers, Landowners, Landcare



Consultant

269 Investigate the feasibility of a short boardwalk to protect rare plant species on the pathway between Fishers Wetland and Churchill Road

Population of Yellow Sea Lavender protected

Operations Department, Consultants

12.4 Sub-Area F4: Fisher’s Wetland to Boys Home RoadFisher’s Wetland is also known as ‘Wadgil’garook’ and is adjacent to the Western Port Ramsar site. The area was reclaimed in 1998 as a 10 hectare wetland, a system of levee banks and weirs with removable sections installed to control surface water levels. The Dry Swamp Scrub at Fisher’s Wetland contains very old and tall specimens of woodland vegetation, and rare vegetation types are present.

Water for the wetland comes from stormwater drainage from the Cape Woolamai housing estate and passes through private property before reaching the wetland. A second drain located in the south west joins this drain. The construction of formal drainage and roads in the housing estate has greatly increased the flow of water due to increased hard surfaces.

Major Values

Environmental •NaturePrint identifies this as an area of predominantly high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values. There are opportunities to improve habitat and connectivity with the surrounding area including adjacent farmland•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state

bodies include:IUCN Listed Five bird speciesEPBC Protected Twenty three bird species One plant species Amphibromus fluitans (River Swamp

Wallaby-grass)FFG Act Listed Three bird species and Creeping Rush Juncus revolutus, Marsh Saltbush Atriplex

paludosa ssp. paludosa, Yellow Sea-lavender Limonium australe, Salt Lawrenica Lawrencia spicata and Grey Mangrove Avicennia marina ssp. australasica

VAL Listed Six bird species and five plant speciesEVCs of conservation concern

Five plant ‘communities’: Coastal Moonah Woodland (threatened), Saline Aquatic Meadow (rare), Estuarine Swamp Scrub (endangered), Estuarine Flats Grassland (endangered), Tall Marsh (depleted) and Brackish Aquatic Herbland (vulnerable)

•The area is an important breeding, feeding and / or roosting site for the Cape Barren Goose, Black Swan, Purple Swamp Hen, Australian Pelican, Masked Lapwing, White-faced Heron and Chestnut Teal

Social •Area of cultural heritage sensitivity•Pathways, car parks and roads•Bird hides

Economic •Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)•Bird hide


Issues

•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna•Impact of roadways on habitat quality•Impact of storm water run-off from the Cape Woolamai housing estate on water quality and quantity•Impact of the loss of native vegetation on adjacent land on water quality and connectivity•Impact of agricultural run-off from surrounding land•Impacts of sea level rise on habitat and cultural values


270 Undertake a hydrological assessment of water needs of Fisher’s Wetland (SP 2.1.1)

Hydrological study completed by June 2017

Consultant

271 Investigate the feasibility of constructing a stormwater treatment wetland to intercept nutrients entering Fisher’s Wetland from the Cape Woolamai estate (SP 2.1.1)


Melbourne Water, adjoining landowners

272 Request the installation of a gross pollutant trap on the Cape Woolamai estate drain (SP 2.1.1)

Request for gross pollutant trap to be installed undertaken by June 2017

BCSC, Melbourne Water

273 Monitor the quality and quantity of water entering Fisher’s Wetland from stormwater and drainage from roads and residential properties

Quality measurements made every three months

Melbourne Water, Southern Rural Water

274 Monitor VROT and EPBC listed plant species and protect from weed invasion

Re-sample populations and monitoring quadrats in spring 2013

Consultant

12.5 Sub-Area F5: Newhaven WetlandNewhaven Wetland is a freshwater wetland south of the township of Newhaven which supports a range of wildlife but is subject to significant weed infestation. The wetland consists of two natural shallow basins in a remnant stand of Swamp Scrub behind the Phillip Island Tourist Information Centre.

Major Values


bodies include:IUCN Listed N/AEPBC Protected Eight bird speciesFFG Act Listed One bird species VAL Listed Five bird species and five plant speciesEVCs of conservation concern

Three plant ‘communities’: Tall Marsh (endangered), Estuarine Swamp Scrub (endangered), Brackish Aquatic Herbfield (vulnerable)

•Homestead Point is a geological site of state significance (Site 172)96

Social •Walking paths (adjacent)

Economic •N/A


Issues

•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds and flora•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna•Impact of roadways on habitat quality•Effects of lack of water inputs on water quality and quantity•High level of nutrients such as phosphates•Low floristic species diversity


275 Monitor the water quality of Newhaven Wetland annually

Annual monitoring undertaken Melbourne Water

276 Undertake a hydrological assessment of water needs of Newhaven Wetland in conjunction with Fisher’s Wetland (SP 2.1.1)


277 Research the reserve’s history to determine if it is naturally floristically simple or requires diversification plantings

Research completed by June 2017 Consultant


13 | Key Area G: Cape Woolamai




At 112 metres above sea level, Cape Woolamai is the highest point on Phillip Island. Spectacular cliffs dominate the Bass Coast side of the promontory and sandy beaches and sand dunes provide a wide range of habitats. Cape Woolamai is the largest and most significant breeding area for Short-tailed Shearwaters on Phillip Island and is a site of national geomorphological significance97.

In 1870 Cape Woolamai was leased for grazing and the lessee was required to ‘develop’ it by clearing and burning. Domestic livestock were grazed in the area from 1870s through to the 1960s, resulting in dramatic changes to the vegetation. The introduction of rabbits in the late 1850s and foxes in 190898, as well as the trampling by shearwater egg collectors, also contributed to changes in the area. In the 1940s a large project was initiated to stabilise the dunes using marram grass and other plant species.


278 Develop a comprehensive Key Area Plan for Cape Woolamai (SP 2.1.1)

Plan completed by June 2017 BCSC, AAV, community

279 As a precursor to the Key Area plan, commission a report on significant Indigenous sites on Cape Woolamai

Completed prior to Key Area Plan Operations and Finance Departments, DSE, AAV

280 Prioritise and undertake the actions in the Cape Woolamai Vegetation Management Plan99, particularly weed management

Annual works plan developed by June 2013

Volunteers, BCSC

281 Help monitor Short-tailed Shearwater populations

Completed by June 2017 Research

13.1 Sub-Area G1: Princeton Avenue BlockThe area at the end of Princeton Avenue is covered by Banksia Woodland, the under storey dominated by weeds. As you move nearer the coast, Banksia is replaced by Coastal Tea-tree with native understory (Sea-berry Saltbush, Coast Beard-heath, Dianella, Coast Daisy-Bush etc.). As woodland turns into dune, Coast Beard-heath, Coast Daisy-Bush, Coast Everlasting and Knobby Club-sedge dominate. There are also extensive areas of introduced marram grass. In the valleys between the dunes Acacia longifolia sophorae dominates. Little is known of the fauna using this area.

Major Values

Environmental •NaturePrint identifies this as an area of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values. There are opportunities to improve habitat and connectivity with the surrounding area including BCSC reserves•Species observed in the Sub-area listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state

bodies include:IUCN Listed N/AEPBC Protected Twelve bird speciesFFG Act Listed Twelve bird species VAL Listed Four bird species and five plant speciesEVCs of conservation concern

Three plant ‘communities’: Swamp Scrub (endangered), Coastal Dune Scrub/Coastal Dune Grassland Mosaic (depleted) and Bird Colony Succulent Herbland (rare).

•Cape Woolamai is a BioSite of state significance (Site 4736)100

Social •Unformed pathways allow beach access•Significant views of Bass Strait•Area of cultural heritage sensitivity•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (middens) present

Economic •Built up areas nearby•Roads and pathways•Commercial fishing (restrictions apply)


Issues

•Impacts of human disturbance on cultural values, flora and fauna•Risk of fire


282 Commission a vegetation management plan including fire regimes for this Sub-area

Completed by June 2016 BCSC

283 Include priorities for access in the island-wide access strategy (SP 1.4, 2.1.1)

Completed by December 2013 BCSC

284 Protect nesting Short-tailed Shearwaters

Opportunities to work with key stakeholders identified and explored. Nature Parks regulations and determinations enforced

BCSC, DSE

13.2 Sub-Area G2: Cape Woolamai Tombolo The tombolo consists of sand dunes underlain by older volcanic lavas and tuffs that outcrop on the shore and in cliff sections101 and is of national geological significance. In recent times the sands are quite unconsolidated although there are visible horizons of calcareous cemented root concretions derived from former vegetation102.

This Sub-area includes Anzacs and Woolamai Beach. This stretch of beach is the longest (2.4 kilometres) and most exposed on Phillip Island and is the location for the WSLSC. A National Surfing Reserve application is currently in progress for this area. It is the most popular surfing beach on the Island and has car parking facilities for approximately 400 vehicles. The beach is not a safe swimming beach and is only suitable for experienced surf swimmers - an average of 55 people are rescued annually103.

Major Values


bodies include:IUCN Listed One bird speciesEPBC Protected Twelve bird speciesFFG Act Listed Seven bird species VAL Listed Twelve bird species and thirteen plant species (see below)EVCs of conservation concern

Nine plant ‘communities’: Coast Banksia Woodland (vulnerable), Berm Grassy Shrubland (endangered), Coastal Alkaline Scrub (vulnerable), Damp Sands Herb-rich Woodland (vulnerable), Coast Headland Scrub (depleted), Coastal Tussock Grassland (vulnerable), Bird Colony Succulent Herbland (rare), Coastal Dune Grassland (depleted), and Damp Melaleuca Scrub (depleted)

•The area is an important breeding and/or feeding site for Short-tailed Shearwater and Hooded Plover•The area is an important feeding site for Pacific Gull in autumn•Woolamai Beach and tie bar is a geological site of national significance (Site 171)104

•Cape Woolamai is a BioSite of state significance (Site 4736)105

Social •Pathways (unformed)•Significant views from cliffs•Recreational fishing (adjacent)•Area of cultural heritage sensitivity•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites present •Former quarry•Significant surfing events •Recreational diving•WSLSC

Economic •Car parking, roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)•Commercial fishing (adjacent)•WSLSC – amenities and kiosk


Issues

•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds•Walking on unformed tracks in dunes is impacting on flora and fauna•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna•Impact of domestic animals on fauna•Impact of car parking, roadway and pathways on habitat quality•Inadequate car parking and overnight camping/sleeping in cars•Impact of WSLSC building and its use on dune erosion, loss of flora and fauna•Impact of the use of the WSLSC facilities at night on Short-tailed Shearwaters


285 Include priorities for access in the island-wide access strategy (SP 1.4, 2.1.1)


286 Commission an archaeological survey of this Sub-area

Completed by June 2017 AAV, BCSC

287 Revegetate dune areas Three habitat days held per annum WSLSC, volunteers

288 Commission an archaeological survey of this Sub-area

Completed by June 2015 AAV, BCSC

289 Reduce informal tracks to beach (SP 1.4, 2.1.1)

Enforcement of Nature Parks regulations and determinations undertaken. Tracks reviewed under tracks and pathways review by December 2013

WSLSC, volunteers, visitors

290 Reduce the number of Short-tailed Shearwaters killed by cars on the access road to the WSLSC in the evenings during the fledging period

Minimise the number of Short-tailed Shearwaters killed by cars on the access road to the Woolamai SLSC in the evenings during the fledging period.Number of birds killed minimised. Annual reminder to Woolamai SLSC of the need to not schedule night events between the 16th April and 6th May

WSLSC, BCSC, visitors

291 Monitor VROT species: Sea Nymph Amphibolis antarctica (poorly known), Shore Spleenwort Asplenium obtusatum subsp. northlandicum (vulnerable), Slender Bitter-cress Cardamine tenuifolia (poorly known), Coast Ballart Exocarpos syrticola (rare), Pale-flower Cranesbill Geranium sp. 3 (rare), Oval Sea-wrack Halophila australis (poorly known), Leafy Peppercress Lepidium foliosum (vulnerable), Crimson Berry Leptecophylla (Cyathodes) juniperina (rare), Peninsula Daisy-bush Olearia sp. 2 (aff. lanuginosa) (rare), Dune Wood-sorrel Oxalis rubens (rare), Dune Poa Poa poiformis var. ramifer (rare), Coast Saltwort Salsola tragus subsp. pontica (rare) and protect from weed invasion and dune destabilisation


Consultant


292 Develop a strategy for reducing dune surfing, including public education (SP 1.4, 2.1.1)

Completed by June 2013 DSE, BCSC

293 Track and reduce advertisement of the sand dunes as a tourism destination for sandboarding

Elimination of sandboarding at Cape Woolamai by June 2017

Accommodation outlets, BCSC, community

13.3 Sub-Area G3: Cape Woolamai PlateauPrior land-use has created extensive areas of disturbed vegetation, dominated by introduced grasses and herbs, on the ‘plateau’ area of the Cape. Former extensive patches of Kikuyu Pennisetum clandestinum and Buffalo Grass Stenotaphrum secundatum have been substantially reduced through the aerial spraying program, and control of these aggressive perennials is well advanced. Within the areas utilised by the shearwaters, large areas are now dominated by pasture grasses, notably Bromus spp. and to a lesser extent Dactylis glomerata, or introduced annual chenopods106.

Ideally the longer-term outcome in these areas is a cover of indigenous perennial species tolerant of the activities of the shearwaters, and providing increased overall stability of the soils, given much of the current introduced flora is annual107.

Major Values


bodies include:IUCN Listed One bird speciesEPBC Protected Twelve bird speciesFFG Act Listed Seven bird species VAL Listed Twelve bird species and thirteen plant species (see below)EVCs of conservation concern

Nine plant ‘communities’: As for Sub-Area G2

•The area is an important feeding site for Pacific Gull in autumn•Cape Woolamai granite tombolo is a geological sites of national significance (Site 170)•Former Little Penguin breeding site

Social •Pathways (unformed)•Significant views from cliffs•Shipwrecks included on the Heritage Register (adjacent)•Area of cultural heritage sensitivity•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (middens) present •Surfing •Recreational diving

Economic •Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)•Commercial fishing (adjacent)•WSLSC – amenities and kiosk

Issues

•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds•Walking on unformed tracks is impacting on flora, fauna and archaeological sites•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna•Sand dune surfing is eroding dunes and threatening VROT plant species


294 Access current and future access needs in the island-wide access strategy (SP 1.4, 2.1.1)


295 Monitor VROT plant species as for Sub-Area G2

Assess current and future access needs in the Nature Parks Access Policy (SP 1.4, 2.1.1)

Consultant


Appendices and References


14.1 Appendix 1: Existing Plans/ReportsAuthor Year Title Review

Date

Bennetts, K. and Cook, D. 2008 Phillip Island Wetland Survey 2013

Bennetts, K. and Osler, D. 2008 Ventnor Koala Reserve Vegetation Master Plan 2013

Bull, H. 2011 Summerland Peninsula Wildfire Management Assessment NA

Campbell, S., Lumsden, L., Kirkwood, R. and Coulson, R.

2005 Day roost selection by Little Forrest Bats Vespadelus vulturnus within remnant woodland on Phillip Island, Victoria. Wildlife Research 32: 1-9.

NA

Cleary, M. 2011 Preliminary fauna survey of Smiths Beach Parkland and Drainage Reserve. NA

Cropper, S. 2003 Rare or Threatened Plants of Phillip Island. NA

Crowfoot, L, Carr, G and Roberts, N.

2006 Rare Plant Survey of Phillip Island Nature Parks NA

Edmunds M., Mustoe, S., Stewart, K., Sheedy, E. and Ong, J.

2009 VNPA Nature Conservation Review: Marine Conservation Priorities and Issues for Victoria. Report to Victorian National Parks Association. Australian Marine Ecology Report 405, Melbourne.

NA

Fensham, R. 1993 A remnant of coastal vegetation on Phillip Island, Victoria. Victorian Naturalist: 110(5) 191-97.

NA

Harkin, E. 2000 The Foraging ecology of the water rat (Hydromys chrysogaster) in coastal environments on Phillip Island (BSc Hons thesis, Melbourne University)

NA

Kirkwood, R. and Johnston, M.

2006 Terrestrial mammals of Phillip and French Islands, Western Port. The Victorian Naturalist 123: 146-156.

NA

Menkhorst, P. 2009 Assessment of the potential habitat for Long-nosed Potoroo and Southern Brown Bandicoot on Phillip Island

NA

Oates, A., and Frood, D. 2010 Cape Woolamai Native Vegetation Management Plan 2010 2015

Oates, A., and Frood, D. 2011 Conservation Hill and Rhyll Cricket Ground Native Vegetation Management Plan

2016

Oates, A., and Frood, D. 2011 Summerland Peninsula Native Vegetation Management Plan 2011 2016

Osler, D. 2007 Bass Coast Landcare Wetland Assessments NA

Robinson, P. and Quinn, D. 2002 The Reptiles and Amphibians of Phillip Island Nature Parks NA

Ecoscience 2003 Freshwater Fish and Macro-invertebrate Survey, Phillip Island Nature Parks NA

St George, C., Berelov, I., McMillan, R. and Donati, L.

2012 Cultural Heritage Assessment of the Summerland Peninsula, Phillip Island NA

Sutter, G and Downe, J. 2000 Vegetation Community Survey and Mapping of the Phillip Island Nature Parks NA

Thomas, I. 2011 Pollen Analysis of sediments in and around Swan Lake, Summerland Peninsula, Phillip Island, Victoria

NA

Walker, G. 2010 Surfies Point to Sunderland Bay Vegetation Survey and Management Recommendations

2015

15 | References


14.2 Appendix 2: Written SubmissionsWritten submissions were received in response to the Draft Environment Plan 2012-2017 from the following:

Baird, Bob Holland, Deborah and Tony

Baird, Pat Hunt, Patsy

Bass Coast Shire Council Maunders, David (Friends of Churchill Island Society Inc.)

Bennetts, Kate Nair, Kay and Mohan

BirdLife Bass Coast Phillip Island Conservation Society

BirdLife Victoria Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit

Cameron, Ewen Port Phillip and Westernport Catchment Management Authority

Cameron, Fergus and Chris Schinkel, Maurice

Cuthbertson, Linda and Stefan Shaw , Elizabeth

Davie, Anne Smiths Beachcomber Association Inc.

Fleming, Jan Taylor, Pauline

Friends of Surf Beach and Sunderland Bay Venn, Maria

Friends of the Koalas Inc. Whelan, Michael and Mary

Grayden, Christine Cr. Wright, Phil

14.3 Appendix 3: Partnerships SummaryGovernment Agencies and Authorties Conservation and Community Groups

1 Bass Coast Shire Council 21 Members of the Phillip Island community

2 Department of Sustainability and Environment 22 Holiday rentals

3 Department of Primary Industry 23 Landcare

4 Department of Health and Human Services 24 Barbara Martin Bush Bank

5 Aboriginal Affairs Victoria 25 Coast Care Groups

6 Country Fire Authority 26 Friends of the Koalas

7 Heritage Victoria 27 Friends of Churchill Island

8 VicFire 28 Western Port Biosphere Reserve

9 Parks Victoria 29 BirdLife Bass Coast

10 Civil Aviation Safety Authority 30 Hooded Plover Watch volunteers

11 Melbourne Water 31 BirdLife Australia

12 Westernport Water 32 Victorian Wader Study Group

13 VicRoads 33 Australasian Wader Studies Group

14 Trust for Nature 34 Phillip Island and District Historical Society

15 Port Phillip and Western Port CMA 35 Phillip Island Conservation Society

16 San Remo Foreshore Committee of Management 36 Phillip Island Boardriders Club

17 Southern Rural Water 37 Phillip Island Pony Club

Other 38 Phillip Island Tourism and Business Association

18 SP AusNet 39 Phillip Island Bicycle Users Group

19 Private landowners and managers 40 Woolamai Beach Surf Life Saving Club

20 Farmers


14.4 Appendix 4: Regulatory SettingThe work of the Nature Parks sits within a range of wider legislation and obligations, and is informed by a range of key agreements and plans at an international, national, state and local level.

14.4.1 International Treaties and Obligations

Western Port Ramsar SiteThe ‘Convention on Wetlands’, signed in Ramsar, Iran, in 1971, is an intergovernmental treaty providing the framework for national action and international cooperation for the conservation and wise use of wetlands and their resources.

In 1982, Western Port became one of 1,970 sites around the world listed under this Convention as ‘Wetlands of International Importance’. A management plan has been prepared by DSE with whom the Nature Parks works to provide management direction for the various agencies involved with protection of the Ramsar site.

The Ramsar site borders the Nature Parks on the north east coast of the Island and includes Rhyll Inlet and Observation Point.

Migratory Bird AgreementsAustralia provides critical non-breeding habitat for millions of migratory waterbirds each year. To ensure their conservation the Australian Government has fostered international cooperation through a range of important agreements, including the Ramsar Convention and the Convention on Migratory Species, bilateral agreements with Japan, China and the Republic of Korea, and through the East Asian — Australasian Flyway Partnership. The corridor through which these birds migrate is known as the East Asian - Australasian Flyway (the Flyway). It extends from within the Arctic Circle, through East and South-east Asia, to Australia and New Zealand. Stretching across 22 countries, it is one of eight major waterbird flyways recognised around the globe (www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/migratory/waterbirds/index.html).

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These agreements find expression at the national level, through the EPC Act 1999, state level in documents such as ‘The Strategic Directions Statement’ for Ramsar wetlands which sets the management objectives and state-wide management strategies for Ramsar wetlands in Victoria. The Western Port Ramsar Site Management Plan sets objectives for the Western Port site. At the local level they are included in the Bass Coast Shire Planning Scheme through the Municipal Strategic Statement and must be considered during planning applications.

Agreement Acronym Relevance To Nature Parks

Japan Australia Migratory Bird Agreement

JAMBA Thirty-six species occurring within the Nature Parks are listed under this agreement

Convention on Migratory Species (Bonn Convention)

The Convention aims to conserve terrestrial, aquatic and avian migratory species throughout their range. It is an intergovernmental treaty, concluded under the aegis of the United Nations Environment Programme, concerned with the conservation of wildlife and habitats on a global scale

Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora

CITES This treaty controls the way wild native flora and fauna can be exchanged between countries

China Australia Migratory Bird Agreement

CAMBA Thirty one species occurring within the Nature Parks are listed under this agreement

Republic of Korea Australia Migratory Bird Agreement

ROKAMBA Twenty two species occurring within the Nature Parks are listed under this agreement

14.4.2 Federal Legislation

Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) is the Australian Government’s central piece of environmental legislation. It provides a legal framework to protect and manage nationally and internationally important flora, fauna, ecological communities and heritage places.

Protection of migratory waterbirds in Australia is a matter of national environmental significance under the Act. The Act also provides for the development of plans to conserve listed species, of which the Wildlife Conservation Plan for Migratory Shorebirds was the first to be made under the Act in February 2006 (www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/migratory/waterbirds/index.html).

New guidelines for ‘Significant impacts on 36 species of shorebirds’ were prepared in 2009 (Commonwealth of Australia 2009). Significant impacts include those from habitat loss, habitat degradation, human disturbance and direct mortality.

Native Title Act 1993The main objectives of this Act are to;

a. Provide for the recognition and protection of native title

b. Establish ways in which future dealings affecting native title may proceed and to set standards for those dealings

c. Establish a mechanism for determining claims to native title

d. Provides for, or permits, the validation of past acts, and intermediate period acts, invalidated because of the existence of native title.


14.4.3 State Legislation and Management FrameworksKey documents and state legislation that direct management options for the Nature Parks include:

Management Directions / Plans•Australia’s Biodiversity Strategy 2010-30 (Commonwealth of Australia 2010)•Bass Coast Planning Scheme (BCSC 2011)•Biodiversity Action Planning, Landscape Plan for the Phillip Island Zone in the Gippsland Plain Bioregion,

A Strategy for Conserving Biodiversity in the Phillip Island Zone (DSE 2005)•Biosecurity Strategy for Victoria 2011 (DPI Victoria)•Code of Practice for the Welfare of Wildlife During Rehabilitation (DPI 2001)•Code of Practice for the Public Display of Animals (DPI 2001) •Readiness and Response Plan for Large Whale Entanglement in Victoria (DPI 2008)•Rhyll Special Management Area Management Statement (DSE 2006)•The Victorian Cetacean Contingency Plan (DSE 1999)•The Victorian Coastal Strategy (Victorian Coastal Council 2008)•The Victorian Marine Pollution Contingency Plan (VicPlan) (DOT 2011)•Western Port Marine Pollution Contingency Plan (DOT 2011)•Western Port Ramsar Site Management Plan (DSE 2003)•Wildlife Response Plan for Marine Pollution Emergencies (DSE 2007)

Acts•Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006•Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Victoria) Act 1994•Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994•Climate Change Act 2004•Coastal Management Act 1995•Conservation Forests and Lands Act 1987•Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978•Domestic Animals Act 1994•Environment Protection Act 1970•Firearms Act 1996 •Fisheries Act 1995•Flora & Fauna Guarantee Act 1988•Forests Act 1958 •Heritage Act 1995•Historic Shipwrecks Act 1976•Land Act 1958•Livestock and Diseases Act 1994•Livestock Management Act 2010•Planning and Environment Act 1987•Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986•Traditional Owner Settlement Act 2010 •Wildlife Act 1975


Regulations (these regulations fall under the above Acts)•Aboriginal Heritage Regulations 2007•Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Control of Use) (Ruminant Feed) Regulations 2005•Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Control of Use) Regulations 2007•Catchment and Land Protection Regulations 2002•Conservation, Forests and Lands (Infringement Notice) (Amendment) Regulations 2011•Crown Land (Reserves) (Tour Operator Licence Fee) Regulations 2011•Crown Land Reserves (Phillip Island Nature Park) Regulations 2010•Domestic Animals Regulations 1994•Flora and Fauna Guarantee Regulations 2001 •Heritage (Historic Shipwrecks) Regulations 2007 •Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Domestic Fowl) Regulations 2006•Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulations 2008•Wildlife (Marine Mammals) Regulations 2009•Wildlife Regulations 2002

14.4.4 Biosphere ReservePhillip Island Nature Parks is located within the Western Port Biosphere Reserve.

UNESCO biosphere reserves aim to keep special places—like Western Port—special by fostering conservation and sustainable development. They encourage the community to develop better ways to meet social and economic needs, while conserving natural processes and biodiversity. They support this through research, monitoring, education and information exchange. Biosphere Reserve designation does not alter the legal status of the land involved.

Biosphere reserves include urban, industrial and agricultural areas as well as conservation reserves, and participation by landowners is voluntary. For management purposes, they are structured into three zones:

•Core—Conservation areas that are legally protected (e.g. national park).•Buffer—Areas surrounding the core, where activities compatible with conservation occur.•Transition—other areas, e.g. private land, farms, industrial and urban areas, where sustainable practices are

developed and promoted by the community.

14.4.5 Special Management Areas – Rhyll and SummerlandPhillip Island Nature Parks has involvement in two marine zones which have been recommended to the Victorian Government as ‘Special Management Areas’ located at Summerland Peninsula and at the Rhyll Inlet and nearby waters.

The Summerland Peninsula Special Management Area extends over 400 hectares. It was recommended by the Environment Conservation Council (now the Victorian Environment Assessment Council VEAC) to complement the wildlife values of Seal Rock and the Little Penguin colonies at Phillip Island1. A management plan has yet to be completed.

Rhyll Special Management Area Management Statement has been completed. The northern portion of Rhyll Special Management Area has been included in the Parks since 2007. The management objectives for the Rhyll SMA are to:

•Develop strategies to protect the values of the area for shorebirds•Manage recreational activities to encourage visitors’ enjoyment and understanding whilst protecting the

area’s values•Engage the community and develop effective stewardship of the area’s values •Undertake research and monitoring to improve the scientific basis for management.


14.5 Appendix 5: Triple-Bottom-Line Values Considered for Coastal and Marine Assets

Values Coastal Marine Reason For Valuation

Environmental

Vegetation Protection Planning Overlay (BCSC)

✔ Vegetation provides habitat for native fauna and can provide protection against erosion. ‘Vegetation Protection Overlay’ enables planning authorities to protect particular trees or other vegetation (including dead vegetation). It provides tighter controls over vegetation clearance than Provision 52.17, which deals with ‘Native Vegetation’.

Environmental Significance Planning Overlay (BCSC)

✔ Areas covered by an ‘Environmental Significance Overlay’ require a permit for any subdivision, building or works as well as protecting vegetation.

BioSites ✔ BioSites are sites of biodiversity significance. The sites are physical areas of land or water containing biological values with particular attributes, such as the presence of rare or threatened flora, fauna or habitat required for their survival and/or rare or threatened vegetation communities. Sites vary from international to local significance.

Geological points of significance (BCSC, DSE)

✔ Geological sites of significance are often aesthetically pleasing and geomorphologists and geologists often recognise significant geology for the supporting values provided to biodiversity and the environment in general.

Adjacent Parks and Reserves with native vegetation (BCSC, Crown land managed by BCSC)

✔ Adjacent Parks and Reserves are protected areas that provide habitat for native flora and fauna species.

Land and Biodiversity White Paper flagship areas (Western Port including all of Phillip Island)

✔ Flagship areas were identified as needing focused attention due to their important environmental, social and economic values, as identified in the ‘Securing our Natural Future - Land and Biodiversity White Paper’ (2009). These areas are based on aggregations of these values. Ecological values reflect the provision of ecosystem services, which underpin the identified economic and social values of these flagship areas.

Biolinks - Land and Biodiversity White Paper (Western Port flagship connects to Gippsland Biolinks)

✔ Broad biolink areas were identified in the ‘Securing our Natural Future - Land and Biodiversity White Paper’ (2009). The Biolinks are broad geographic areas identified to target actions that aim to increase ecological function and connectivity, improving the potential of plants and animals to disperse, recolonise, evolve and adapt naturally. Victoria’s Biolink areas were determined based on an analysis of continental climate shifts, major riparian links and local climate gradients that link flagship areas via areas of likely adaptive ‘flow’ (White Paper, pp14 and 122).

Ecological Vegetation Communities 2005

✔ Ecological vegetation communities consist of floristic communities that tend to show similar ecological responses to environmental factors such as disturbance (e.g. wildfire). As well as representing plant communities, EVCs can be used as a guide to the distribution of individual species and groups of species.

Nature Parks Vegetation Management Plans

✔ Various vegetation management plans commissioned by the Nature Parks

Ramsar wetlands (Western Port Ramsar Site)

✔ Ramsar wetlands are Wetlands of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention. Ramsar wetlands are recognised as a matter of National Environmental Significance under the EPBC Act 1999.

Wetlands ✔ Wetlands can provide botanical, zoological, limnological or hydrological value. They can also buffer the effects of floods and filter water draining to the oceans.

Watercourse network (channels, rivers and streams)

✔ Watercourses provide habitat for aquatic flora and fauna and drainage to protect catchments against inundation.


EPBC Flora records ✔ The EPBC Act 1999 is Commonwealth legislation that provides for the listing of nationally threatened native species and ecological communities, native migratory species and marine species. The Victorian Biodiversity Atlas (VBA) contains records of EPBC listed flora species.

FFG Flora records ✔ The FFG Act 1988 is State legislation (Vic) that provides for the listing of threatened species and communities and for the management of potentially threatened communities. The Victorian Biodiversity Atlas contains records of FFG Act 1988 listed flora species.

Victorian Advisory Listed Flora species

✔ The Victorian Advisory List is a list of considered threatened, poorly known, near threatened or extinct species maintained by DSE. There are no legal consequences or lists however the lists may be used for a range of planning processes, such as the preparation of National Park Management Plans, Forest Management Plans, local government planning schemes, regional catchment strategies and in setting priorities for actions to conserve biodiversity. Some species listed on the Advisory list may also be listed on the FFG and EPBC lists. The species lists only include items that have been nominated, assessed by the Scientific Advisory Committee and approved for listing by the responsible Minister.

VBA Flora ✔ The Victorian Biodiversity Atlas (VBA) contains sightings and observation records of all native flora species (including species listed under the EPBC Act 1999, FFG Act 1998, the Victorian advisory list and other unlisted native species).

Nature Parks fauna management plans and reports

✔ Nature Parks commissioned reports on fauna

EPBC Fauna records (VBA) ✔ ✔ The EPBC Act 1999 is Commonwealth legislation that provides for the listing of nationally threatened native species and ecological communities, native migratory species and marine species. The Victorian Biodiversity Atlas (VBA) contains records of EPBC listed fauna species.

FFG Fauna records (VBA) ✔ ✔ The FFG Act 1988 is State legislation (Vic) that provides for the listing of threatened species and communities and for the management of potentially threatened communities. The Victorian Biodiversity Atlas contains records of FFG Act 1988 listed fauna species sightings and observations.

Victorian Advisory Listed Fauna species (VBA)

✔ ✔ The Victorian Advisory List is a list of considered threatened, poorly known, near threatened or extinct species maintained by DSE. There are no legal consequences or requirements for species listed on the advisory lists however the lists may be used for a range of planning processes, such as the preparation of National Park Management Plans, Forest Management Plans, local government planning schemes, regional catchment strategies and in setting priorities for actions to conserve biodiversity. Some species listed on the Advisory list may also be listed on the FFG and EPBC lists. The species lists only include items that have been nominated, assessed by the Scientific Advisory Committee and approved for listing by the responsible Minister. The Victorian Biodiversity Atlas (VBA) contains sightings and observation records of native fauna species on the Victorian Advisory list.

VBA Fauna Records (all) ✔ ✔ The Victorian Biodiversity Atlas (VBA) contains sightings and observation records of all native fauna species (including species listed under the EPBC Act 1999, FFG Act 1998, the Victorian advisory list and other unlisted native species).

Hooded Plover nesting sites (includes winter flocking sites, observed sightings, nesting, roosting and feeding sites)

✔ ✔ Hooded plovers (Thinornis rubricollis) are a listed marine species under the EPBC Act 1999, are listed as Threatened under the FFG Act 1988 and listed as Vulnerable under the Advisory List of Threatened Vertebrate Fauna in Victoria 2003. The vast majority of Hooded Plovers breed along the coastline and hence are vulnerable to widespread threats such as sea level rise and predation by introduced predators.


Tern nesting and roosting sites ✔ ✔ Tern nesting and roosting sites provide habitat for tern species listed as migratory species under international law (Bonn, CAMBA, JAMBA, and ROKAMBA). Species also listed under Marine Provisions EPBC Act.

Pacific Gull ✔ ✔ EPBC listed species, nesting sites

White-bellied Sea Eagle ✔ ✔ White-bellied Sea Eagles are EPBC listed

Little Penguin colonies (Nesting/Moulting Sites)

✔ ✔ Little Penguins (Eudyptula minor) are a listed marine species under the EPBC Act 1999.

Australian Fur Seal colonies ✔ ✔ Australian Fur Seals (Arctocephalus pusillus) are a listed marine species under the EPBC Act 1999. The species is also protected under the Wildlife Act 1975 and listed under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988. The sites provide habitat for mating, pupping and moulting.

Shorebird habitats (International, national, state, regional significance). Data also includes habitats of undefined significance.

✔ ✔ Shorebird habitat provides habitat for species of international, national, state, regional significance.

Shorebird roosts (minor roosts, major roosts, nesting, feeding sites)

✔ ✔ Shorebird roosting sites provide habitat for species of international, national, state, regional significance.

Hydro navigation lines (reefs and ledges)

✔ ✔ Reefs and ledges provide habitat for marine species.

Victorian National Parks Association Marine Conservation Priorities

✔ ✔ Marine Conservation Priorities in Victoria as described in Edmunds (2010). Priorities include habitats, communities, species and ecosystem processes and aspects of high conservation value for regions of Victoria.

Stormwater drains ✔ ✔ Disposal of stormwater can affect wetlands, saltmarsh areas and marine environment.

Wave climate model as a proxy for exposure data (marine habitat/diversity data)

✔ ✔ Increased storm surge and frequency are likely to affect both environmental and social assets.

Social

Aboriginal cultural heritage sites ✔ ✔ Aboriginal Places across Victoria including scatters and artefacts have been extracted from the Victorian Aboriginal Places database (VAHIS).

Areas of Cultural Heritage Sensitivity

✔ ✔ Areas of Cultural Heritage Sensitivity are areas that have the potential for containing Aboriginal cultural heritage places and objects and have been derived from areas where Aboriginal cultural heritage places and objects are known to exist or are likely to exist. ‘Areas of Cultural Heritage Sensitivity’ are Specified in Division 3 of Part 2 in The Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Regulations 2007.

Commerical and Recreational Fishing

✔ ✔ Fisheries include abalone, rock lobster, ocean general and inshore trawl.

Heritage Register (Archaeological sites)

✔ The Victorian Heritage Register lists the State’s most significant heritage places and objects. Heritage places can include buildings, trees, parks and gardens, streetscapes, archaeological sites, shipwrecks and structures such as bandstands. A heritage object can include furniture, shipwreck relics, archaeological artefacts, equipment, transport vehicles, and articles of everyday use that contribute to an understanding of Victoria’s history. Heritage places and objects listed on the Victorian Heritage Register are protected under the Heritage Act 1995.

Heritage Inventory (Archaeological sites not verified and in Register)

✔ The Heritage Inventory contains site descriptions, plans, locations, and preliminary assessments of the importance of each site. Heritage objects and artefacts which have been found and recorded in Victoria are also listed. These may range from pieces of machinery to a scatter of crockery and glass.


Historic Places (non-Aboriginal) ✔ It is important to include values for non-Aboriginal historic sites on Victorian public land, collected as a result of field survey by DSE and Environment staff and contractors.

Heritage Planning Overlay (BCSC) ✔ Heritage places recorded in Heritage Planning overlays have local significance. They contribute to the individuality and streetscape, townscape, landscape or natural character of an area and are managed by local government. They often reflect the socio-economic or natural history of a local area. For example, chicory kiln.

Significant Landscape Planning Overlay (BCSC)

✔ Landscapes may be valued for cultural significance, which includes aesthetic, historic, social, spiritual and scientific values. Significant landscapes include geological and geomorphologic features.

Recreational sites including walking tracks (BCSC, Nature Parks)

✔ Walking tracks, lookout points and picnic areas are part of this dataset. Walking and picnicking in these areas can be enjoyed by local residents and/or visitors to the area. It provides people with an opportunity to enjoy natural wilderness values.

Camping areas, picnic areas and all high-use recreation sites within or adjacent to Public land.

✔ Camping areas, picnic areas and popular recreation sites provide people with an opportunity to enjoy the natural environment.

Coast care and other community groups

✔ Coastcare and community groups provide a social value because they demonstrate that the community is actively involved and interested in protecting their natural assets. Groups can also help with policy schemes such as tree planting designed to protect an asset.

Buoys, beacons, rocks and wrecks ✔ Buoys, beacons provide social value because they offer navigational protection for boating and sailing enthusiasts. Wrecks can also support marine life and be valued by divers. Historic shipwrecks protected by the Historic Shipwrecks Act 1976 which applies in relation to waters adjacent to the coast of the State of Victoria.

Recreational diving locations ✔ Diving locations can provide recreational enjoyment for local residents and can attract visitors to the area. They are also usually associated with important marine life and/or wrecks.

Safe swimming beaches (rating of safety)

✔ ✔ Swimming is a popular recreational activity that can provide enjoyment for local residents and can attract visitors to the area.

Surfing locations ✔ ✔ Surfing is a popular recreational activity that can provide enjoyment for local residents and can attract visitors to the area.

Economic

Surf lifesaving clubs/visitor centres

✔ ✔ Surf lifesaving clubs and visitor centres are an economic value because they provide supporting services for tourists and the local community such as kiosks, surf rescue.

Towns ✔ ✔ Towns are an economic value because they provide accommodation for tourists and supporting services for the local community and tourism.

Built-up areas ✔ ✔ Built-up areas are areas where there is usually a higher density population that can access an asset and contribute to schemes to protect an asset. They are also an indication of resources that may be available in the area for asset protection.

Roads ✔ ✔ Roads provide an economic value because they provide accessibility to an asset.

Safe swimming beaches ✔ ✔ Swimming is a popular recreational activity that can provide enjoyment for local residents and can attract visitors to the area. Loss of wide sandy beaches due to climate variation could impact on economic outputs.


14.6 Appendix 6: Intertidal Species Found On the Nobbies Rock PlatformFlora: Neptune’s Necklace Hormosira banksia, Bubble Weed Rivularia sp., Strap Weed Lessonia corrugate, Sea Lettuce Ulva lactuca, Green Sea Velvet Codium fragile, Mermaids Necklace Chaetomorpha darwinii and various coraline algae Janus species.

Molluscs: Banded Periwinkle Littorina unifasciata, Checked Periwinkle L. praetermissa, limpets Siphonaria diemenensis, Parelloida aliticostata, Cellana tamoserica, Ribbed Top Shell, Austrocohlea constricta, Chiton species Ichnoiadsia sp. australis and Poneroplax albida, Dog Winkle Thais orbita and Elephant Snail Scutus antipodes.

Athropods: Acorn Barnacles Chthamalus antennatus, Honeycomb Barnacles Chamaesipho columna, Common Rock Barnacles Tesseropora purpurescens, Notched Shore Crab Paragrapsus quadridentatus and Decorator Crab Naxia tumida.

(Information collated from Considine, M. 1979. ‘The feeding behaviour of the Sooty Oystercatcher (Haematopus fuliginosus) on rocky shores in Victoria’. BSc Hons Thesis, Monash University and Nature Parks staff observations).

15 References and Abbreviations:BS-N BioSite of National SignificanceBS-S BioSite of State SignificanceCL-N Coastal Landscape of National SignificanceG-N Geological Site of National significanceG-S Geological Site of State significanceG-R Geological Site of Regional significanceHRS Heritage Register, ShipwreckDSE Department of Sustainability and Environment

1 Coastal Landscapes Assessment Study, Planisphere, DSE 20062 Coastal Landscapes Assessment Study, Planisphere, DSE 20063 Coastal Landscapes Assessment Study, Planisphere, DSE 20064 Low, T. (2008). Climate Change and Invasive Species: A Review of

Interactions. Canberra, Biological Diversity Advisory Committee McInnes, K. and Hubbert, G.D. (2003). A numerical modelling study of storm surges in Bass Strait. Australian Meteorological Magazine 52: 143-156 McInness K. Mcadam, I., and O’ Gradey, J.(2007). Effect of Climate Change on Extreme Sea Levels in the Western Port Region. A project undertaken for the Australian Greenhouse Office and Department of Sustainability and Environment, Victoria. CSIRO Marine and Atmospheric Research, Melbourne Kincade, P, and Justus, M. (2008). Impacts of Climate Change on settlements in the Western Port Region. CSIRO Melbourne Water (2011). Understanding the Western Port Environment. A summary of current knowledge and priorities for future research. Melbourne Water Hansen, B., Menkhorst, P. and Loyn, R. (2011) Western Port Welcomes Waterbirds: waterbird usage of Western Port. Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research Technical Report Series No. 222. Department Sustainability and Environment, Heidelberg, Victoria Commonwealth of Australia. (2009). Climate Change, Risks to Australia’s Coasts. First Pass National Assessment. Commonwealth of Australia

5 Hobday, A.J., Okey, T.A. Poloczanska, E.S., Kunz, T.J. and Richardson, A.J. (2006). Impacts of Climate Change on Australian Marine Life. Part A: Executive Summary Australian Greenhouse Office, Department of the Environment and Heritage.

6 Melbourne Water 20117 McHugh, M. and Halley, M. (2005). Biodiversity Action Planning.

Landscape Plan for the Gippsland Bioregion. Phillip Island Landscape Zone. Flora and Fauna, Port Phillip Regions, DSE

8 Ibid9 DSE “A hierarchical system of classification of plant communities

has been developed in Victoria over the past decade in order to classify vegetation into units that are both ecologically meaningful and useful for natural resource managers. Approximately 300 EVCs have been described for Victoria”

10 Sutter, G. and Downe, J. (2000). Vegetation community survey and mapping of the Phillip Island Nature Park. Unpublished report prepared for the Phillip Island Nature Park Board. Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Heidelberg, Victoria

11 DSE, (2003). Flora and Fauna Action Statement, Hooded Plover Charadrius rubricollis. State Government of Victoria.

12 Department of Natural Resources & Environment 199913 Water Ecoscience (2003). Freshwater Fish and Macro-invertebrate

Survey of Phillip Island Nature Parks. A prepared by Water Ecoscience for Phillip Island Nature Parks.

14 Ibid15 Thomas, I. (2011). Pollen analysis of sediments in and around Swan

Lake, Summerland Peninsula, Phillip Island, Victoria.Report to Phillip Island Nature Parks

16 Brothers, N. and Harris, S. (1999). The effects of fire on burrow-nesting seabirds particularly Short-tailed Shearwaters (Puffinus tenuirostris) and their habitat in Tasmania. Paper and proceedings of the Royal Society of Tasmania, 133(1) 15-22

17 Gaughwin, D. (1981) Sites of archaeological significance in the Westernport Catchment. Environmental Studies Series No.367. Ministry for Conservation. Melbourne

18 Aboriginal Affairs Victoria 200619 WorleyParsons, (2011). Marine and Coastal Assets of the Gippsland

Coastal Region. Report prepared for the Gippsland Coastal Board20 Morrees, A. and Molnar, C. (1992). Sites of botanical significance

in the Land Conservation Council Melbourne District 2 - study area. Flora and Fauna Division, Department of Conservation and Environment, Victoria

21 CL-N L1007622 Bennet, I. and Pope, E. (1953). Intertidal zonation of the exposed

rocky shores of Victoria, together with a rearrangement of the biogeographical provinces of temperate Australian shores. Australian Journal of Marine and Freshwater Research 4: 105-159

23 Synott, R. N. and Westcott, G.C. (1976). Zonation at Flinders Reef, Westernport. An introduction to Victorian intertidal ecology with specific reference to the Flinders Reef, Westernport. Victorian Naturalist 93: 97-107

24 BS-N 466125 Register of the National Estate 21/10/1980Place ID 587726 HRS S603 Sally27 G-S 18828 BS-N 155829 Excludes Cowries Beach, Cat Bay, Shelly Beach, Flynns Beach and

Summerland Bay30 CL-N L1007631 HRS SV93 Birchgrove; S514 Palace 32 G-S 188 33 BS-N 155834 CL-N L1007635 BS-N 155836 BS-N 1558 37 G-R 18738 HRS S684 Tyro 39 Cutriss, L and Bird E. (1995). 500 million years on Phillip Island. Bass

Coast Shire Council.40 BS-N 1558


41 G-S 186G-S 189 42 BS-N 5155 43 CL-N L1007644 G-S 189 45 BS-S 4738 46 CL-N L1007647 BS-N 155848 BS-N 155849 G-S 190 50 CL-N L1007651 G-N 19152 BS-N 1558 53 HRS S627 Speke 54 CL-N L1007655 G-N 19156 BS-N 1558 57 CL-N L1007658 G -192 Redcliff Head (R); 193 Pyramid Rock, (S)59 BS-N 1558 60 CL-N L1007661 CL-N L1007662 G- 196 Smiths Beach (S); 196 Smiths Beach hanging valley (R); 197

Sunderland Bay – cliff stacks (R)63 BS-N 1558 64 Coastal Landscape of National significance L1007665 G- 197 Sunderland Bay cliff-stacks (R); 198 Surfies Point cliff top

dunes (R)66 G- 197 Sunderland Bay cliff-stacks (R); 198 Surfies Point cliff top

dunes (R)67 BS-N 1558 68 G-R 199 69 BS-N 1558 70 G-R 19971 Sutter, G. and Downe, J. (2000). Vegetation community survey and

mapping of the Phillip Island Nature Park. Unpublished report prepared for the Phillip Island Nature Park Board. Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Heidelberg, Victoria

72 G-S 17873 Hansen, B., Menkhorst, P. and Loyn, R. (2011) Western Port

Welcomes Waterbirds: waterbird usage of Western Port. Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research Technical Report Series No. 222. Department of Sustainability and Environment, Heidelberg, Victoria

74 DSE (2006). Rhyll Special Management Area Management Statement. DSE

75 Andrew, D., Lumsden, L. and Dixon, J. (1984). Sites of zoological significance in the Westernport region.Environmental Study Series No. 327. Ministry for Conservation, Victoria

76 BS-S 156877 G-R 179 78 Bennets, K. and Cook D. Phillip Island Wetlands. (2008). A report

prepared by Australian Ecosystems for the Phillip Island Nature Park

79 Rogers, K. Saintilan, H. and Heijinis, H. (2005). Mangrove encroachment of salt marsh in Western Port Bay, Victoria: The role of sedimentation, subsidence and sea level rise. Estuaries and Coasts 28: 551-559

80 G-S Site 17881 DSE (2006). Rhyll Special Management Area Management

Statement. DSE82 G-S Site 17883 BS-S 156884 BS-S 1568

85 G-S Site 17886 Hansen, B., Menkhorst, P. and Loyn, R. (2011), Western Port

Welcomes Waterbirds: Improving our understanding of waterbird use of Western Port. Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research Technical Report Series No. 222, Department of Sustainability and Environment

87 G-S Site 17888 DSE (2006). Rhyll Special Management Area Management

Statement. DSE89 G-R 17390 BS-N 4739 91 Victorian Heritage Register H161492 G-R 17393 Victorian Heritage Register H161494 G 174 Swan Corner (R); 175 Chambers Point to Long Point (S); 176

Koolyns - Silurian Outcrop (S)95 Geological site of state significance 17296 Rosengren, N. (1984). Sites of geological significance in the

Westernport Bay Catchment. Conservation Forests and Lands97 Norman, F.I. and Gottsch, M.D. (1969). The Phillip Island colonies

of the Tasmanian muttonbird, with special reference to those at Cape Woolamai. Emu 69 , 137–144

98 Oates, A. and Frood, D. (2010). Cape Woolamai Vegetation Management Plan. A report prepared for Phillip Island Nature Parks

99 BS-S 4736100 Oates, A. and Frood, D. (2010). Cape Woolamai Vegetation

Management Plan. A report prepared for Phillip Island Nature Parks

101 Rosengren, N. (1984). Sites of geological significance in the Westernport Bay Catchment. Conservation Forests and Lands

102 Surfing Life Saving Australia http//beachsafe.org.au103 G-N 170&171 104 BS-S 4736105 Oates, A. and Frood, D. (2010). Cape Woolamai Vegetation

Management Plan. A report prepared for Phillip Island Nature Parks

106 Ibid107 G-N 170&171 108 HRS S249 Evergreen


Environment Plan 2012–2017

Phillip Island Nature Parks Environment Plan 2012–2017 is available online www.penguins.org.au PO Box 97 Cowes, Victoria 3922 Australia | Telephone: +61 3 5951 2820 Fax: +61 3 5956 8394 | Email: [email protected]

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