gleniffer reserves master plan - bellingen shire · kilometres northwest from the township of...

Gleniffer ReservesMaster Plan

March 2016Prepared by Fisher Design + Architecture in consultation with Mackenzie Pronk Architects | Jackie Amos Landscape Architect Caroline Desmond & Associates | Keiley Hunter Urban Planner

Chapter 1: Inception Overview 1Background 1Executive Summary 2Process 4Objectives 4Principles 5

Chapter 2: Gathering + Interpretation Community Engagement 6Cultural Meanings 8Statutory Assessment 9

Chapter 3: Analysis The Existing Condition of the Reserves 10 - Earl Preston Reserve 13 - Timboon Road 14 - Broken Bridge Reserve 15 - Arthur Keough Park 16 - Angel Gabriel Capararo Reserve 17

Chapter 4: Solutions, Strategies + Recommendations Earl Preston Reserve 19Timboon Road Connecting Trail 21Broken Bridge Reserve 24Arthur Keough Park 27Angel Gabriel Capararo Reserve 30Design Precedent 32Management 33Tourism 34Table: Management Directions & Recommendations 35Information and Education 36Signage 37 Chapter 5: Implementation Table: Project Staging and Opinions of Probable Cost 41

Appendix 1: Community Consultation Report

Contents

Chapter 1: InceptionOverviewThe Gleniffer Reserves are situated along the Never Never River in the Bellingen Shire, approximately 10 kilometres northwest from the township of Bellingen, within one of the most scenically beautiful landscapes in Australia.

Neighbouring the world heritage Dorrigo National Park and Tuckers Nob State Forests, the Gleniffer Reserves form part of a significant natural regional asset which is highly valued by local residents and the Bellingen community.

The four reserves which are the subject of this Master Plan are:

• EarlPrestonReserve• ArthurKeoughPark• BrokenBridgeReserve• AngelGabrielCapararoReserve

The Reserves have been enjoyed for generations by local residents and the Bellingen Shire community as a recreational destination for swimming, picnics and BBQs, walking, and attending events at the Gleniffer Hall and Community Church.

In recent years, promotion of the Gleniffer Reserves by tourism organisations, social media, and word of mouth has resulted in the area becoming increasingly popular.

Gleniffer residents have reported a large increase in visitation levels to a point where the environment and local quality of life are being significantly affected.

The Gleniffer Valley is visited year round, with peak periods during the Christmas season, school holidays, and public holidays. Visitor numbers currently greatly exceed the sustainable use of the Reserve areas at peak periods.

Bellingen Council and local residents have been caring for the Reserves for many years by maintaining the amenities and restoring the environment. Now however, the level of visitor use of the Reserves is exceeding the local’s capacity to care for them. There is strong concern from residents that the area is losing its ‘sense of place’.

The Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan aims to outline the visitation issues, and provide sustainable design and management solutions for visitation during peak periods, guide site usage, and address adverse visitor behaviour.

The vision is in alignment with the Bellingen Shire Community Vision 2030, and reflects our communities creative spirit and environmental values, with sustainability being a key precept of the Master Plan intent.

BackgroundIn March 2014, Bellingen Shire Council endorsed the Community Facilities & Open Space Infrastructure Section 94 Developer Contribution Plan 2014. This plan included funding to establish a Master Plan and up to $221,000 for works and infrastructure at the Reserves.

A Gleniffer Reserves Working Group was established to guide the development of the Master Plan, including members from the Gleniffer Community Association, the Never Never Catchment Group (Landcare), the Bellingen Chamber of Commerce, and the Bellingen Shire Council.

Bellingen Shire Council in August 2014 contracted a multi-disciplinary consultant team comprising Fisher Design + Architecture, Mackenzie Pronk Architects, Jackie Amos (Landscape Architect), Caroline Desmond (Community Engagement), and Keiley Hunter (Planning Consultant) to work with the working group, stakeholders and the community to develop the Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan.

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Sydney

Brisbane

Armidale

Coffs Harbour

The Gleniffer Reserves have become an increasingly popular place of recreation and swimming for locals and visitors. Visitation numbers and

visitor behaviour are at a point where the environment and local quality of life are being significantly affected.

The Bellingen Shire - Location Plan

1 Chapter 1. Inception | Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan | March 2016

Executive Summary- Key InitiativesIn consultation with Bellingen Shire Council, stakeholders and the community, this Master Plan has been created for present and future generations to provide a framework for a sustainable future for the Gleniffer Reserves over the next decade.

The document will also provide a resource for seeking further funding from other levels of government, and provide recommendations for allocation of Section 94 funding - $221,000 for works and infrastructure at the Reserves.

Being highly popular recreation destinations, the Gleniffer Valley, the Gleniffer Reserves, and adjacent State Forest areas have been experiencing increasingly high levels of visitation and usage, with visitor numbers exceeding site capacities during peak periods, and resulting in an increase in adverse visitor behaviour.

There is growing evidence that the natural environment, and the local residents’ quality of life is being significantly affected.

Informed by the voice of the community, the Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan aims to outline the visitation issues, and provide sustainable design and management solutions for visitation during peak periods, guide site usage, and address adverse visitor behaviour.

With sustainability being a key precept of the Master Plan intent, the vision for the Gleniffer Reserves reflects our communities creative spirit and environmental values, aiming to preserve a sense of ‘place’ through implementation of ideas and design solutions which are meaningful and engaging.

In early 2014, as a result of concern raised by the community, Bellingen Shire Council placed a moratorium on promotion of the Promised Land and the Gleniffer Area by official tourism bodies. With Council’s support there will be no future mass marketing of the Promised Land.

The Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan provides a framework for regulation of the tourism industry and local businesses, which includes provision of information to business and the community about the significance and value of the Gleniffer Reserves, and establishment of consistent, simple, clear guidelines to ensure a sustainable future.

The Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan is in alignment with the Economic Development and Tourism Plan, which adopts a shire-wide approach to sustainable development, commerce, and tourism, and identifies a variety of local recreation destinations that can sustain greater visitation rates, as alternative to the Gleniffer Reserves.

In developing the Master Plan for the Gleniffer Reserves, information on visitation numbers, visitor behaviour, site usage, and traffic has been anecdotal, based on community observations.

It is recommended that further visitation sustainability study be undertaken of the broader Gleniffer Valley area, including key State Forest recreational destinations, to establish sustainable site and road carrying capacities. This may be undertaken by Bellingen Shire Council working in partnership with Forestry NSW.

While this Master Plan aims to address social and environmental issues relating with visitation and usage for the Gleniffer Reserves, a framework for a sustainable future for the Gleniffer Reserves must be considered within the broader context of the Gleniffer Valley, surrounding State Forests, and the Bellingen Shire.

It is essential that Council and Forestry Corporation NSW work jointly to develop a coordinated approach for management of visitation, traffic, tourism and enforcement of regulations throughout the Gleniffer Reserves, the Promised Land, and State Forest areas.

An agreement has been made between Bellingen Shire Council and Forestry NSW to draft an MOU, with community input, in order to establish a joint approach to visitor management and enforcement.

With strong community concern over road safety and traffic management issues within the Gleniffer area, establishment of a Road and Traffic Management Plan is recommended to be undertaken by Council’s Traffic Management Committee, including a review of signage, options for parking regulation, speed limits and road maintenance.

The Never Never Catchment Group (Landcare) has undertaken extensive work on restoration of the environment of the Never Never River since 1995. The Master Plan provides continuity to previous conservation works, particularly Capararo’s Reserve, Broken Bridge Reserve, and Arthur Keough Park. Council support an ongoing partnership with the Never Never Catchment Group to continue work in and around the Gleniffer Reserves.

Improving and monitoring ecosystem health is a key priority for Bellingen Shire Council, as identified in Council’s Estuary Management Plan and the Bellinger and Kalang River Health Plan. In 2009-2010, a pilot Ecohealth project was undertaken in the Bellinger & Kalang River catchments which included the Never Never River at Arthur Keough Park. Council will proactively implement a second round of ecosystem health monitoring in the 2015/16 financial year.

Inspired by the values and aspirations of the community, three directions were identified which underpin design solutions, strategies and recommendations proposed for the Gleniffer Reserves: Design, Management and Communication.

The Master Plan proposes sustainable design solutions for the Reserves with a focus on environmental conservation while creating new contexts for everybody to engage with the ‘place’.

It is recommended that a Gleniffer Stewardship Advisory Group (GSAG) is established to guide the implementation of the Master Plan, provide advice to Council and steer ongoing commitment to the protection, preservation and sustainability of the Reserves.

With an increasing need for greater regulatory enforcement reported by the Gleniffer community, Council has indicated support for additional ranger presence. Council will work jointly with Forestry NSW and police to develop a coordinated approach to enforcement, with a stronger regulatory presence required to reduce negative behaviour and reinforce positive behaviour.

In addition to increased formal ranger presence, it is recommended that the Gleniffer Stewardship Advisory Group would work with Council and the community to explore provisions for a community based volunteer ‘green ranger’ service.

It is recommended that incident report protocols should be reviewed and clarified to the public, through on site signage and community education.

The Master Plan proposes initiatives which encourage community engagement, participation and co-operation and facilitate ongoing care of the Reserves.

Proposed information and education initiatives for the public will increase awareness, knowledge and understanding of the Reserves’ natural and cultural values. Providing guidelines for sustainable, responsible and

appropriate site usage will engender respect for the environment and for others.

Education initiatives offer the opportunity to positively influence behaviour and attitudes within our own community, as well as from visitors from outside the Bellingen Shire.

Proposed informative, regulatory and interpretive signage aims to engage and to guide the public, foster social and environmental responsibility and pride, and assist with enforcement of regulation.

Implementation of the Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan is proposed to be staged over the next decade, and will require a commitment of resources beyond the Section 94 funds that have been allocated to the project. It is recommended that the majority of funds should be expended within the first two years of the Master Plan being adopted.

Following Council’s adoption of the Masterplan the capital infrastructure project priorities identified in the plan can be considered for inclusion in the Long Term Financial Plan. Projects may potentially be funded from a combination of grant funds, Section 94 contributions and general revenue.

Periodic reviews should be undertaken throughout the ten year period to assess the Master Plan outcomes and impacts on the Gleniffer Reserves, the Gleniffer Valley, and the Bellingen Shire.



Earl Preston Reserve

Broken Bridge Reserve

Arthur Keough Park

Angel Gabriel Capararo Reserve

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Tallowwood Point Rd

Timboon Rd

Little Hydes Creek Rd

Tuckers Nob State Forest

Dorrigo National Park

The Gleniffer Reserves - Location Plan

Gleniffer

Master Plan ObjectivesProcess

In developing the Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan a process was designed incorporating five key phases:

Community engagement is essential to inspire community confidence and custodianship, and was the first step in the master planning process.

Gleniffer residents, numerous stakeholder groups and the broader Bellingen Shire community were invited to provide information and feedback on the Gleniffer Reserves, primarily by means of a feedback survey which revolved around six key focus points:

• sustainablelevelsofvisitationandusage

• theuniquecharacterandexperienceoftheReserves

• thenaturalenvironment• visitorbehaviour• impactsonlocalresidents• facilitiesandinfrastructure.

Historical and cultural information was gathered from sources within the local community, elders and the historical society.

A review of Council and other related reports and information was undertaken, and Statutory information was referenced for assessment of legislative requirements.

Information was collected at numerous site visits, and meetings with Council staff.

Through a process of interpretation and analysis, the existing condition of the Reserves was explored and key issues identified.

Informed by the voice of the community, design options and opportunities were investigated, and design solutions, strategies and recommendations formulated which address identified issues, and reflect the cultural and environmental meanings of the Reserve sites.

An internal Council review was undertaken of the Master Plan proposal, and feedback from the Working Group and Council managers incorporated.

Further feedback from the community may be obtained during the Public Exhibition Period. Formal input is invited from Crown Lands and State Forests.

Implementation of the Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan is intended to be staged over the next decade. An ongoing process of monitoring and review of outcomes is proposed to ensure objectives are achieved.


ObjectivesAddress adverse

site usage and visitor behaviour

Foster social and environmental responsibility and encourage respect by all users, for the Reserves and for each other

Protect and preserve the natural

environment

Design for sustainable visitation numbers and site capacities during

peak periods

Design for public

safety

Design for accessibility

Reflect the cultural and environmental meanings of

the Reserves, preserving the sense of ‘special place’

Address the pragmatic and landscape specific needs relating to sustainable visitation and usage

Provide a framework for planning and development which allows for staged implementation over the

next decade

Articulate a vision which draws on community aspirations, values,

and concernsCommunity Engagement

Interpretation + Analysis

Solutions, Strategies +

Recommendations

Implementation + Review

Gathering

Inspired by the values and aspirations of the community, three streams were identified which underpin design solutions, strategies and recommendations proposed for the Gleniffer Reserves: Design, Management, and Communication.

Design

Good design is sustainable, makes physical and social connections, provides a diversity of options and experiences, and creates the context for everybody to engage with the ‘place’.

The Master Plan considers design principles, initiatives and strategies which address visitation and usage of the Reserves, and conservation of the natural environment.

The Master Plan aims to create accessible, robust, sustainable, safe and liveable public spaces for the enjoyment of the local residents, the Bellingen Shire Community and other visitors for generations to come.

Management

Good leadership and management inspires custodianship, recognising that the Reserves will continually change, and will require ongoing management, maintenance and care.

Stewardship recognises that the environment is entrusted to our care, to be passed on to future generations.

The Master Plan proposes partnership initiatives which encourage inter-agency and community engagement, co-operation, and participation, required to facilitate ongoing care of the Gleniffer Reserves and the Promised Land.

Communication

Informing and educating the public increases awareness, knowledge and understanding of the Reserves’ natural and cultural values, and engenders respect for the environment and each other.

Education initiatives offer the opportunity to positively influence behaviour and attitudes within our own community, as well as from visitors from outside the Bellingen Shire.

Proposed informative, regulatory and interpretive signage aims to engage the public and foster social and environmental responsibility, and pride.

The design principles that guide the Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan are aligned with the values outlined in the Bellingen Shire Council’s Community Strategic Vision ‘Connected, Sustainable, Creative’: Our vision is about protecting the pristine beauty of our environment and enhancing our prosperous and safe community where inclusiveness and sustainable living are embraced, so that creativity and cultural activity can flourish.


PrinciplesSafety and wellbeing

Consideration of custodianship, for now and into the

future

Fostering excellence,

innovation and leadership

Protecting and enhancing our local

environment

Working within

planning, physical

and social contexts

Strengthening pride and respect

within our community and for our spaces

Encouraging community engagement, participation

and co-operation

Enhancing physical and cultural connection with place

Designing for sustainability, endurance and resilience

Principles The principles provide a foundation for a sustainable future for the Gleniffer Reserves. The Master Plan identifies three streams which underpin the guidelines for restoration and management of the Reserves, and preservation of a sense of ‘special place’.

Chapter 2. Gathering + InterpretationValues, Concerns and AspirationsThe driving force behind any change should come from the direction of the community through the expression of its values, concerns and aspirations.

The community consultation undertaken as part of the development of the Master Plan sought to draw on the community’s concerns for the Gleniffer Reserves, inspired by their hopes for the future of the Reserves and the values that underpin their community relationships.

It was recognised from the beginning that the success of the Master Plan would be dependent on authentic and genuine consultation with the community - many of whom have strong views about the future of the Gleniffer Reserves. This approach helped define a vision to guide the development of the Master Plan.

Consultation ObjectivesCommunity consultation provides an important opportunity for the decisions of Council to be informed by the views and knowledge of the community. The primary goal of the consultation for Gleniffer Reserves was to inform the Master Plan and ensure that all relevant issues and ideas were considered.

Input was sought from:

• immediateneighboursoftheReserves

• otherGlenifferresidents• theBellingenShire

community• otherstakeholders(including

environmental,community,tourism,indigenous,youth,council,businessandindustrygroups).

Community EngagementCommunity engagement began in November 2014, with notification of the consultation process by way of letterbox drop to Gleniffer residents, through local press advertisements and via industry group channels.

A feedback survey was used as the primary method for collecting feedback. A number of group meetings and one-on-one sessions were held including an open session with Gleniffer residents on November 18th 2014, 19 separate meetings with Stakeholders and ongoing communication throughout the consultation period with residents and other stakeholders who contacted the consultation team.

A total of 96 feedback submissions were received from respondents.

Summary of Consultation Outcomes:Understanding and interpreting the community’s values, concerns and aspirations.

Some broad conclusions can be drawn from the community consultation process:

• there was a significant degree of agreement that protection of the natural environment of the Gleniffer Reserves for future generations was of the highest priority

• there is a high level of concern for the sustainability of the Gleniffer Reserves, in particular for the continued degradation of the area from increasing visitor numbers and impacting behaviours

• whilst there was some diversity of views about the best approach to managing the Reserves, most people felt that simple management strategies would make a positive difference

• the benefits of guiding people at the Reserves in a positive, clear and informative manner were seen to be highly desirable

• there was a strong opinion that education for both the local community and visitors from further afield must be included as part of the approach to improving behaviours and attitudes

• there was a sense of loss from many people that they were no longer able to enjoy the Reserves under current conditions

• the issues raised do not just relate to the Gleniffer Reserves in isolation, but include the surrounding area of The Promised Land, and indeed the whole Bellingen Shire

• there is a strong sense of community existing in Gleniffer, and a willingness to work with Council whilst continuing the communities’ custodial role in caring for the Reserves

• there is a strong sense of attachment to the Reserves from people across the Shire

• there were firm opinions expressed that management of the Reserves and the Gleniffer area must involve collaboration between Council, Forestry Corporation NSW, police and other agencies.

The following page gives an overview of community feedback comments.

Refer Appendix 1: Consultation Report

Community engagement

6 Chapter 2: Gathering | Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan | March 2016

acknowledge and respect the work of Gleniffer residents

education - short, medium and long term

Snapshot of community conversations: Concerns

Snapshot of community conversations: Aspirations

Snapshot of community conversations: Values

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flood risks from gravel

build up

watching it deteriorate is really sad

the last couple of summers have been terribleoverflowing bins

people feel entitled to treat this place anyway they like.

deliberate bad behaviour

bad roads, inexperienced, intoxicated and

speeding drivers

people think no one uses the road so they

park really dangerously

responsible tourism is what we are after

State Forests, Police and Council have to talk to each other. They

don’t work together.

sustainable management

education, signage and information is

important

something needs to be done

Unsupervised dogs is a big concern.

its wrong to believe that the problems are only

caused by outsiders

pushing through bush and over

fences in 4WDs

lack of toilets

the visitors have destroyed the

reason we came

toilet paper and exposed human waste at the reserves

it has been marketed hard by tourism without

thought to the local community or current

infrastructure

lack of respect for nature

people lighting firesThere’s nothing to support all the people coming here

it will be loved to death

why is the area so special? There’s no

info about it.

guide them in a positive way

increase awareness, knowledge and understanding

more council resources to enforce rules

and guidelines

damage to cars due to poor road at Broken Bridge unrestrained dirt bike usage

social engagement

provide sustainable approaches without losing

the natural feeling

promote a positive way of dealing with

the problems

a cross-sector initiation, getting groups together

simple, consistent management strategies

promote a sense of pride and respect

provide a high quality, peaceful and enjoyable

experience

preserve the natural beauty and continue upgrading as money becomes available

support biodiversity

the principals that guide this Master Plan should be

applied Shire-wide

embrace some change that initially might be a bit of a

shock to the system

reflect the outstanding environmental and scenic

values of the area

young people are the problem

AND the solution

its gentle, timeless ‘wilderness’

wildlife abundance, setting and overall

natural beauty

the purity and pristine nature of the

free flowing water

I just want a nice safe place that

everyone can share.

Diversity of flora and fauna

the natural and recreational values

I love its serenity, its beauty in every respect

the sense of community and belonging

a quality recreational family space free of commerce, rules, written words and general society shackles

beautiful area to sit with friends, have a swim and watch people

a link between the country and the rivers - it’s an experience that you can’t get from other places.

the beautiful ancient rocks and swimming holes

young people are better off going out there and being active, sharing what nature has given us

heaven on earthbeing able to enjoy the

Reserves through walking, swimming, photography and stopping for a picnic

the river is what’s important

Gleniffer belongs to everybody

I feel passionate about the Never Never.

Cultural Meanings

First InhabitantsThe Gumbaynggirr people were the original inhabitants of the Bellinger Valley, occupying the land for thousands of years.

Forming one of the largest coastal Aboriginal nations in Australia, the Gumbaynggirr nation stretches from the Nambucca River in the South to the Clarence River in the North, and the Great Dividing Range in the west.

Located within the traditional lands of the Gumbaynggirr people, the Gleniffer Reserves are considered by today’s elders to have been areas of seasonal passage and camp site destinations for members of tribal groups who were travelling to and from the higher country and the coast. Inhabitants of the high rainforest areas migrated seasonally between the plateau, the valley and the coast.

Throughout the changing seasons the Gleniffer Valley, with its waterways and abundance of wildlife, provided a rich source of food and other resources.

The Never Never River was a source of fresh water containing fish, yabbies, and freshwater turtles.

Bush food was collected from native plants, edible seeds, grubs and insects, and honey and nectars.

Animals hunted included kangaroo, wild turkey, rock wallaby, possums, snakes and lizards and anteaters.

Tools such as axes and knives were manufactured from stones found along the creek edges.

‘Grinding grooves’ may still be found in the riverbank stone benches.

Although gathering and ceremonial sites and breeding grounds were treated as sacred in the Bellinger Valley, there is no indication or record of significant indigenous sites in the Gleniffer Reserves area.

The Original Gleniffer VillageThe 1850’s pioneer settlement of timber rich land found in the Bellinger Valley by cedar cutters and farmland selectors, spread to the Gleniffer Valley and the Promised Land in the 1860’s.

Scotsman John McFadyen and family first settled in the area, originally known as ‘the Never Never’ in 1866, followed by the Keogh family.

Prosperity of the early 1900’s from timber getting, dairying and agriculture saw the rapid growth of the Gleniffer community and early development of the original Gleniffer village at the crossroads of Gleniffer and Timboon Roads, in the area that is now the Earl Preston Reserve.

The first buildings included a store and post office, community hall, Presbyterian and Union churches, blacksmith and bakery. The first school, sawmill and a butter factory were built on the outskirts of the village.

The Gleniffer community were well known for participating in various sporting activities including football, cricket, and tennis at courts located at what is now Arthur Keough Park.

Memorial plaques celebrating founding families can be found at Earl Preston Reserve at the ‘arbour’ adjacent to the present Community Church.

Environmental Responsibility and ConservationOver recent decades the Gleniffer Community has established a culture of environmental responsibility, with local residents and community groups, including the Never Never Catchment Group and the Gleniffer Community Association, working on conservation initiatives and environmental management of the Gleniffer Reserves.

The Never Never Catchment Group has worked extensively on environmental restoration projects on private and public lands since 1995, preserving the Promised Land and the Gleniffer Valley as a significant natural regional asset.

The work has involved instream river repairs, noxious weed eradication, establishment and restoration of riparian zones and native bush regeneration. The community has also been very successful in securing funding in partnerships with key stakeholders like Forestry NSW to undertake environmental projects.


Statutory Assessment

Statutory Assessment

This section of the Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan provides a brief statutory assessment and planning framework applicable to the ongoing management and proposed works within the Reserve areas.

A broad range of legislation, policies and environmental planning instruments are relevant to the management of Crown reserves, including:

• Crown Lands Act 1989• Environmental Planning and

Assessment Act 1979• Bellingen Local Environmental

Plan 2010• State Environmental Planning

Policies• Local Government Act 1993

The Reserves are located within the Bellingen Local Government Area (LGA) and are zoned RE1 Public Recreation (refer to Illustration X below). The objectives of the RE1 zone are:

• to enable land to be used for public open space or recreational purposes.

• to provide a range of recreational settings and activities and compatible land uses.

• to protect and enhance the natural environment for recreational purposes.

The works proposed within the subject Master Plan are consistent with the RE1 zone objectives.

The State Environmental Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007 (Infrastructure SEPP) aims to facilitate the effective delivery of infrastructure within NSW. The Infrastructure SEPP provides for works within parks and other reserves and “saves” the need for development consent for works carried out by or on behalf of a public authority (Council) for the following purposes:

• roads, cycleways, single storey car parks, ticketing facilities and viewing platforms,

• outdoor recreational facilities, including playing fields, but not including grandstands,

• information facilities such as visitors’ centres and information boards,

• lighting, if light spill and artificial sky glow is minimised in accordance with AS/NZS 1158: 2007, Lighting for Roads and Public Spaces,

• landscaping, including irrigation schemes (whether they use recycled or other water),

• amenity facilities,• maintenance depots,• environmental management

works.

Most of the proposed works described within this master plan may be carried out by or on behalf of Council without the need for development consent. A Part 5 (Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979) Review of Environmental Factors (REF) would be the appropriate level of environmental assessment for the proposed works.

The Reserve land is under the care and control of Bellingen Shire Council and is classified as community land. Council is required to prepare a Plan of Management (PoM) for the management of community land. A PoM was prepared in September 2011 for the Arthur Keough Reserve. The subject draft Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan will form part of a future Plan of Management (e) for the Gleniffer Reserves.


Chapter 3: AnalysisVisitation,Usage and Carrying capacitySustainability is a key precept of the Master Plan intent. The Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan aims to provide sustainable design and management solutions for visitation during peak periods, guide site usage, and address adverse visitor behaviour.

Being highly popular recreation destinations, the Gleniffer Reserves and State Forests have been experiencing increasingly high levels of visitation. Visitornumberscurrentlyexceedsustainablesitecapacitiesatpeakperiods.The natural environment and local community are being significantly affected.

The Gleniffer Reserves are used primarily as destinations for swimming, picnics and BBQs, walking, and attending events at the Gleniffer Hall and Community Church.

There is a broad range of recreational users including local residents, Bellingen Shire residents, visitors from Coffs Harbour and nearby Shires, and tourists.

Information received during the public consultation indicate that

local resident use of the Reserves has been declining in recent years as the overall usage rate increases. Reasons for this decline in local usage include avoidance of crowds, antisocial behaviour, noise and pollution.

The Gleniffer Valley is visited year round, with peak periods during the Christmas holiday season, school holidays, and public holidays.

There is strong community concern over road safety and traffic management issues within the Gleniffer area, occurring in and around State Forests, the Reserves, and on roads throughout the Promised Land.

Adjacent State Forest areas are also an increasingly popular recreational destination for swimming, off road 4- wheel driving and trail bike riding.

In developing the Master Plan, information on visitation numbers, visitor behaviour, site usage and traffic has been anecdotal, based on reports from residents, observation during consultant site visits, and the community consultation process.

It is proposed that more comprehensive visitation information is obtained for the Gleniffer Valley, the Gleniffer Reserves and key State Forest recreational destinations, to establish sustainable site and road

carrying capacities.

Detailed information should include visitor numbers, profiles, usage patterns, seasonal fluctuations, and traffic data. This may be undertaken by Bellingen Shire Council working in partnership with Forestry NSW.

Investigation of carrying capacity should make reference to National Parks & Wildlife models for sustainable tourism.

A detailed investigation of sustainable tourism may be undertaken for the Gleniffer Valley, as part of a sustainability study of the broader Bellingen Shire. This would be necessary to accurately determine sustainable targets for tourist visitation of the Gleniffer Valley as well as other environmentally sensitive locations throughout the Bellingen Shire.

The existing condition of the Gleniffer Reserves

10 Chapter 3: Analysis | Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan | March 2016

The Natural Environment

The Gleniffer Valley enjoys a warm temperate climate, with high rainfall and a predominantly summer storm season.

The Gleniffer Reserves are comprised of managed public spaces, areas of extant native vegetation and regeneration planting, and the riverine environment.

The combination of high rainfall, rich volcanic fertile soils and temperate climate has produced remnant riparian rainforest vegetation (eg. Waterhousea floribunda) along the Never Never River.

Areas of the Reserves, particularly the riparian zone have been infested by weeds (eg. Camphor laurel and privet), which threaten the sustainability and integrity of the native vegetation.

The Bellinger Valley is extremely biodiverse, supporting a great variety of flora and fauna. Most properties with native bush and waterways are home to abundant species of frogs, reptiles, mammals, birds, fish and macro invertebrates.

At least 10 threatened plant species and 50 threatened animal species occur in the Bellinger Valley River system and adjacent lands.

While there is information on ecological communities that are in decline, (ref. Bellingen Shire

Council-Biodiversity of the Bellinger and Kalang River System) there are no specific records of threatened species particular to the Never Never River in the Gleniffer Reserves.

An Ecohealth aquatic ecosystem health check conducted in 2009, which included the Never Never River at Arthur Keough Park, rated the condition of riparian vegetation in the area fair to poor.

Improvement of the riparian vegetation and riverbank stabilisation is crucial for maintaining water quality and the health of the river habitat. The primary goal of riparian management is to ensure that land use and management adjacent to waterways has minimal negative impact on water quality, bank stability and biodiversity.

Roadsides within the Gleniffer Valley are an important environmental asset, highly valued for their remnant vegetation and contribution towards flora and fauna conservation. Proposed works outlined within the Master Plan should refer to the Bellingen Shire Roadside Management Plan (currently under review) for design and management guidelines.

Extensive Landcare works have been undertaken throughout the Promised Land over the last 20 years, and include establishment of riparian zones, access control works, in-stream river repairs and river bank stabilisation works, removal and control of significant weed

infestation and bush regeneration and enhancement planting.

The Never Never Catchment Group (Landcare) has worked on restoration of the environmental values of the Never Never River on both private and public land since 1995, having undertaken works at the Gleniffer Reserves at Capararo’s Reserve, Broken Bridge Reserve, and Arthur Keough Park.

Capararo’s Reserve works included instream bed control, weed control, installation of fences and bollards, establishment of a native tree arboretum, and an environmental zone which is maintained as a natural bush site.

Broken Bridge works included large camphor laurel removal, installation of bollards and access controls, instream bank controls, and enhancement planting.

Works at Arthur Keough Park included instream works and bank control, access controls, car park, weed removal and replanting.

It is proposed that rehabilitation works detailed in the Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan will be undertaken by the Never Never Catchment Group on behalf of Bellingen Shire Council.



The Riverine Environment

The Never Never River with its headwaters in the Dorrigo National Park flows through the Gleniffer Reserves, and is recognised for its pristine waters and its many popular swimming holes.

The river is a central focus for the Gleniffer community, and for some residents is a source of household drinking water.

The Never Never catchment is a World Heritage Area with river systems that are forever changing. High annual rainfall, particularly in the upper portions of the catchment in Dorrigo and steep catchment slopes exacerbate impacts on water quality and health.

The Bellingen Shire is well known for flood activity, with many major flood events being recorded over the previous decades.

A Preliminary Flood Assessment of the Upper Bellinger River was undertaken in 2006 by Bellingen Shire Council, which includes the Never Never River. Bellingen Council mapping contains markers which represent 1:100 year flood levels at various locations at the Reserves. Flood information has been collected by locals from various sites in the Gleniffer Valey.

Each of the Gleniffer reserves is subject to flooding. Flood activity within and around the Reserves includes large increases in river

water volume and flow, rise in levels, and water breaking from the river channel with higher velocity stream flows immediately adjacent to the banks. Large volumes of lower velocity water spill into neighbouring properties.

Impacts of flood activity on the Reserves include destabilisation and erosion of the riverbanks, vegetation degradation and loss, and debris build up in areas immediately adjacent to river banks.

Erosive flood activity is accelerated in areas of unrestricted pedestrian and vehicle activity. Visitors not using designated paths and car parking close to the river edge has resulted in riparian vegetation degradation, displacement of rocks and exposure of tree roots.

Bellingen Shire Council has a strong long term commitment for improving water quality and river health throughout the Bellinger Valley.

In 1998, the ‘River styles in Bellinger-Kalang catchment’ assessment and report was completed for NSW Department of Land and Water Conservation. This report provides a geomorphic summary of river character and behaviour of the Bellinger and Kalang rivers and subcatchments including the Never Never River. This report recommends conservation and rehabilitation

priorities for the Never Never River and recommends that it has moderate to high potential for recovery.

In addition, the Bellinger River Health Plan, prepared by Bellingen Shire Council in 2010, documents issues which affect river health and recommends strategies and actions to address these issues and improve management through best practice. The Never Never River is one of the subcatchments included in the study area of this Plan.

An Ecohealth aquatic ecosystem health check was undertaken of the Bellinger and Kalang Rivers in 2009 - 2011, which reported on the condition of water quality, riparian (riverbank) vegetation and condition, macroinvertebrates (waterbugs) and fish. The study included the Never Never River at a sample point at Arthur Keough Park. While water quality rated highly, the condition of riparian vegetation and macroinvertebrates and fish rated fair to poor.

Major riverine restoration works since 2011 have been undertaken by Landcare in collaboration with Council at Keoughs Reserve (in 2013) and at other locations (including private properties) along the Never Never River.

Water testing of the Never Never River for E. coli levels is undertaken in the summer months by Council’s environmental health officers.

Results are published on the Bellingen Shire Council web site. Samples have indicated a rise in E. coli levels during peak periods of usage.

There is concern from local residents that water quality is subject to contamination from farming practices (fertiliser leaching), insect repellant and sunscreen which has washed off while swimming, and toileting in the water by visitors and their dogs.

With the natural ecosytems along the Never Never River continuing to show indications of stress, management of user behaviour, and further improvement of the riparian vegetation and riverbank stabilisation is crucial for maintaining water quality and the health of the river habitat.

“Without action to protect and restore these important areas, it is likely that we will see a gradual decline in the health of our waterways through reduced water quality, the loss of riparian vegetation for our birds and wildlife, and the smothering of macro invertebrates, native fish, and riverine habitats with sediments washed into the river from eroding riverbanks.”

Ecohealth Report Card 2011

Design for Flood Activity

Design solutions and recommendations contained in this Master Plan must have regard to flood activity and impact of the riverine environment.

All proposed infrastructure is to be designed to meet requirements for flood prone environments, considering structural engineering and maintenance.

Proposed building structures in this Master Plan, including the toilet facility at Earl Preston Reserve and the pedestrian bridge at Broken Bridge Reserve, would be considered Minor Development under Bellingen Councils DCP 10, and subject to the guidelines outlined in Chapter 8 - Flood and Riverine Processes.

Design development criteria should include:

• location of infrastructure items where possible in locations of low velocity flow

• proposed new works to ensure flow of flood waters are not impeded

• 1:100 Year Flood Planning Levels plus freeboard

• appropriate materials and structural engineering to withstand flood activity

• ensuring maintenance requirements are minimised

Survey information should be obtained during the design development process, to include 1:100 year design levels for each Reserve.



Earl Preston Reserve is located in the south of the Promised Land, at the intersection of Gleniffer Road, Gordonville Road and Timboon Road. The Reserve is primarily an open, managed public area which is maintained by Bellingen Shire Council and the Gleniffer Community Association.

The heritage listed Gleniffer School of Arts Hall and the Community Church are located on adjacent separate title sites, and the Reserve is the home of the Gleniffer Rural Fire Brigade.

The Never Never River runs through the north of the site, separating it from Keough Reserve. A gently undulating grassed flood plain is located adjacent to the river, with grassed channels draining water to the west.

Earl Preston Reserve is frequently used by locals and visitors as a destination for events at the Gleniffer Hall and the Community Church and a place for walking, picnics and BBQs. There is no direct access to the Never Never River for swimming, however visitors can walk to swimming areas at Keough Reserve.

Existing buildings and infrastructure situated on and adjacent to the Reserve include the Gleniffer School of Arts Hall, the Gleniffer Community Church,

the Gleniffer Rural Fire Brigade, an arbor and monument area and public picnic and BBQ facilities.

A wire fence runs parallel to Gleniffer and Timboon Roads, restricting vehicular access onto the Reserve. Informal car parking exists along Gleniffer Road adjacent to the Hall, and along Timboon Road.

Significantly, Earl Preston Reserve is located in the area that was the original Gleniffer village, at the crossroads of Gleniffer and Timboon Roads. The first buildings constructed on and adjacent to this site included a store and post office, the first community hall, Presbyterian and Union churches, a blacksmith and a bakery.

During peak flood periods the Reserve experiences large volumes of fast flowing water breaking out of the river channel into the flood plain and through drainage lines to the west. The south area of Earl Preston Reserve and neighbouring properties experience large volumes of flood waters but of a lesser velocity.

Records show flood waters during times of severe flooding entering the Gleniffer Rural Fire Brigade Station and reaching the top of the footings of the Gleniffer Hall.

Key Issues

• poor identification at entry point to the Promised Land and the Gleniffer Reserves

• lack of connection with other Reserves

• poor delineation of public and private space - community hall / picnic area / church

• existing fence creates perception of the Reserve as not being a public space

• existing picnic facilities are tired and require upgrade

• existing BBQ deteriorated• lack of rubbish bins and

information on rubbish disposal• lack of public toilet facilities,

resulting in inappropriate toileting

• poorly defined car parking along Gleniffer Road and Timboon Road

• no designated access to Never Never River from Reserve

• riparian vegetation degraded with extensive Camphor Laurel and Privet growth

• existing identification signage degraded

• lack of informative or regulatory signage

• severe erosion of steep creek bank just east of the bridge caused by water flow being directed by the compacted gravel bench on the north creek bank

• future migration of the river has the potential to impact on Earl Preston Reserve, Gleniffer Road and the bridge

• impact of peak flood activity on existing buildings

• impact of peak flood activity on infrastructure.

Existing conditions: Earl Preston Reserve


A 600m section of land located between Timboon Road and the east bank of the Never Never River, connects Earl Preston Reserve and Broken Bridge Reserve. The area is a highly popular swimming destination, with numerous informal car parking areas and unrestricted access points to a variety of swimming spots located along Timboon Road.

Severe degradation of the area has increased over the past few years caused by visitation and flood activity.

Unrestricted vehicle activity has caused erosion to sections of Timboon Road and compaction of the ground adjacent to the road and sections of the riverbank. Informal car parking has encroached the riparian zone.

Vegetation degradation is evident along the riverbank, caused by visitors not using designated paths and river access points. Various trails have been worn by pedestrians through the riparian zone to preferred swimming locations.

Key Issues

• compaction and degradation of the riparian zone caused by vehicle and pedestrian movement

• destabilisation and degradation of the riverbank caused by car parking

• erosion and riverbank destabilisation from flood activity

• build up of debris from flood activity

• illegal camping and fires• lack of informative or regulatory

signage• existing signage degraded

Existing conditions: Timboon Road


Located on the Never Never River east of Earl Preston Reserve, Broken Bridge Reserve incorporates an old road reserve site with land donated by Jack Keough in the 1970’s.

The Reserve is a highly popular swimming and picnic destination, and the location of remnants of an old timber bridge which originally connected Timboon Road with the Promised Land Road. The original bridge was built in the 1930’s, then removed in the 1970’s due to recurring damage and the required maintenance resulting from flood activity.

The site is currently divided by the Never Never River and is bounded by private properties.

A significantly degraded single laneway provides vehicle access to the centre of the Reserve from the Promised Land Road. The laneway is bounded by native vegetation. Informal car parking has often encroached on this vegetation.

There is limited informal parking and vehicle access from Timboon Road south of the river.

The central car parking area is on an unlevel and eroded surface and can be unsafe to use. The carpark can be full and vehicles entering the Reserve may have to reverse out of the roadway. This can be dangerous.

There is one clear walking trail to a popular rock and swimming hole from the carpark. Other less defined trails have been worn by pedestrians from the vehicular track and down to the creek. These trails have caused the compaction of soils and tree roots and the degradation of riparian vegetation.

There is private property to the south and east of the Reserve. Visitors to the Reserve regularly encroach on these areas of private land.

Key Issues

• poor identification of the Reserve

• poorly identified boundaries• visitor trespass on private

property• lack of connection with other

Reserves• evidence of illegal campfires• sections of bridge remnants

potentially dangerous• no existing picnic facilities or

BBQs• lack of toilet facilities, resulting

in use of Reserve and adjacent private property for toileting

• significantly degraded driveway and carpark area

• insufficient car parking spaces to meet site capacity during peak periods

• dangerous car parking along the Promised Land Loop Road and on private property during peak periods

• damage to riparian vegetation and existing revegetation by pedestrian movement

• encroachment on native vegetation by vehicle parking

• evidence of riverbank destabilisation

• evidence of damage from flood activity


• lack of informative or regulatory signage.

Existing conditions: Broken Bridge Reserve


Arthur Keough Park is located directly north of Earl Preston Reserve on the Gleniffer Road. Donated by the Keough family in the early 1970’s, the Reserve is bound by Gleniffer Road to the west, the Never Never River to the south and private property to the north and east.

The site slopes with a gentle gradient to the south and contains two minor drainage lines which flow into the river.

Arthur Keough Park is considered a valuable natural asset and a prime recreation destination by the Gleniffer community. Originally the location of two tennis courts in the early 1900’s, the Reserve is a highly popular picnic and swimming destination for local residents and visitors, due to its location on the river, its pristine swimming environment and open grass and waterside picnic areas.

Past works to the Reserve by Bellingen Shire Council and the Never Never Catchment Group include an off road gravel parking area, defined access controls, weed removal, introduced mown grass and native revegetation.

Existing infrastructure includes picnic and BBQ facilities, a serviced rubbish bin and a timber loading ramp located in the central east of the site which is used by Bellingen Shire Council. There are no existing toilet facilities within the Reserve, however there are remnants of a previous toilet facility located at the north east of the site.

Vehicle access beyond the car park is restricted by a boulder and planted barrier, preventing private vehicles from accessing the Reserve, the river bank and adjacent private properties.

A wire fence runs along the north and east boundaries, defining the reserve perimeter and private property boundaries.

Although some instream works for bed and bank control have been previously undertaken in the area of the Never Never River to the south, gravel build up and creek bank erosion is increasing. There is evidence of bank destabilisation and vegetation loss.

The compacted gravel bench on the north bank of the river at Keough Park has been seen to increase in size over recent years and impact on water flow onto the southern bank.

There is major concern by local residents that this section of the river is impacting on peak flood activity, and continued expansion of the gravel bank will cause further bank erosion and migration of the river southward into Earl Preston Reserve.

Arthur Keough Park is subject to flooding, with the site and adjacent properties to the north and east experiencing large volumes of low velocity flood waters at peak flood periods. Two drainage lines direct water south to the river. There is evidence of flood damage and build up of debris caused by higher velocity flows adjacent to the river banks.

Key Issues

• lack of connection with other Reserves

• poorly identified boundaries• visitor trespass on private

property• electric fence on northern

boundary - public safety hazard• existing picnic facilities and

BBQs tired and in need of upgrade

• lack of toilet facilities, resulting in use of the Reserve and adjacent private property for toileting

• existing layout of car parking area results in inefficient use

• insufficient car parking spaces to meet site capacity during peak times

• illegal car parking that impacts on private property access and driveways

• dead Camphor Laurel trees dangerous and reduce visual amenity


• lack of informative or regulatory signage

• expansion of gravel bed along the north bank of the river, reducing creek profile and increasing erosion on the south bank

• impact of gravel bank on flood activity

• impact of peak flood activity on infrastructure.

Existing conditions: Arthur Keough Park


Angel Gabriel Capararo Reserve is located on Promised Land Road and is bound by the Never Never River to the north and east and private property to the south.

Named after local resident Angel Gabriel Capararo, the Reserve was created under the direction of Bellingen Shire Council following the Capararo’s property subdivision in the early 1990’s.

With naturally restricted access to the river, the Reserve is visited mainly for picnics.

A car parking area is situated along the Promised Land Road with vehicle access to the Reserve restricted by a barrier of boulders and logs.

The popular Christmas Holes swimming site is situated just north of the Reserve in the Tuckers Nob State Forest. Conditions at the Reserve are greatly impacted on by Christmas Holes visitors who use the Capararo’s Reserve car parking.

During peak visitation periods the nearby Christmas Holes car parking area exceeds capacity and Capararo’s Reserve car parking is used by these visitors who walk from the car park area across the bridge to the State Forest swimming destination.

Regeneration works have been undertaken at the Reserve by the Never Never Catchment Group including weed eradication, native bush regeneration and ongoing maintenance.

The Reserve is largely treed but has an open grassed area amongst the trees. There is a planted arboretum within the Reserve.

Key Issues

• poorly defined car parking• poorly identified boundaries• visitor trespass on private

property • sections of vehicle barrier

degraded• evidence of illegal campfires• illegal camping• no existing picnic facilities or

BBQs• lack of toilet facilities, resulting

in use of Reserve, adjacent private property and State Forest for toileting

• one rubbish bin located outside the Reserve in the carpark on the north side of the bridge is frequently overflowing in peak periods

• dangerous movement along the Promised Land Loop Road and bridge during peak periods by Christmas Holes visitors who use Capararo’s Reserve car parking

• build up of flood debris• existing identification signage

degraded• lack of informative or regulatory

signage• open grassed area appears to

be irregularly maintained, with frequently long grass

• presence of the arboretum is not obvious.

Existing conditions: Angel Gabriel Capararo Reserve


Chapter 4: Solutions, Strategies + Recommendations

A sense of ‘place’ is created through implementation of ideas and design solutions which are meaningful and engaging, while being practical and having a cohesive approach to their application.

• create new Reserve entry point hub

• design a new palette of elements which reflect the heritage of the precinct

• provide reference to original Gleniffer village and interpretation of original building at the village crossroads

• new identification signage• provide interpretive signage

about settler heritage• formalise and add amenity to car

parking along Gleniffer Road and Timboon Road perimeters

• delineate public spaces- picnic and BBQ area, Gleniffer Hall, and other Reserve areas

• new picnic tables, water station and electric BBQs

• establish starting point to the new walking trail to Broken Bridge Reserve

• create river access and trail node with resting area

• provide additional shade trees and visual amenity to the Reserve frontages along Gleniffer and Timboon Roads

• remove weed infestation from drainage channels west of Gleniffer Road

• incorporate informative, regulatory signage

• incorporate Reserve into Council’s ongoing maintenance program

• New public toilet facility * of a character and style reflective of the Reserve heritage, with future design development criteria to include: - accessibility - an on site sewage system which meets design requirements for flood prone environments considering 1:100 Year Flood Planning Levels - structural engineering to withstand flood activity - appropriate materials and construction for flood prone areas - design to be closed at night - incorporation into Council’s ongoing operations and maintenance program

*Note: Consideration will be given in the Plan of Management to a potential upgrade for public access to the existing toilet facilities at Gleniffer Hall.

Earl Preston ReserveA new gateway to the Gleniffer Valley. An entry point ‘hub’ which reflects the historic character of the precinct, referencing the original Gleniffer Village, its pioneer settlers and the first village buildings.

19 Chapter 4: Solutions, Strategies + Recommendations | Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan | March 2016

20 Chapter 4: Solutions, Strategies + Recommendations | Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan | September 2015 Site Plan: Earl Preston Reserve

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Gleniffer Hall

Rural Fire

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church

arbor

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1 new park signage, part of a new palette of signage adopted across the Gleniffer Reserves. Incorporates regulatory signage including no camping

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2 signage and interpretation of old Gleniffer building

3 retain existing fence, with removal of limited infill sections to improve circulation and and enhance public access to the Reserve. Adjustment of fence as required for new car parking bays.

4 recreate original four way sign post

5 new picnic facilities located under existing trees

8 new designated car parking (gravel/decomposed granite surface) defined by timber bollards, enhanced with new tree planting

9 Gleniffer Hall and public space separated by gardens featuring indigenous species

10 new toilet building with ramped access

11 new walking trail (gravel/decomposed granite path) linking Earl Preston and Broken Bridge Reserves

12 new designated car parking (gravel/decomposed granite surface) defined by timber bollards and enhanced with new tree planting

13 interpretive signage about old Gleniffer

14 lay-by for unloading/arrival at hall or church

15 river access and trail node with resting spot, gabion seat, view and access to creek and trail signage

TIMBOON R

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Scale 1:500

• create a new walking trail incorporated within the riparian zone

• adopt an integrated strategy that co-ordinates the siting of the trail with weed removal and revegetation works

• rationalise the existing creek accesses, close and revegetate excess access points and encourage the use of a limited number of creek access points

• rehabilitate the creek edge and weed infested riparian zones

• provide designated car parking areas with barriers to prevent vehicle encroachment on riparian vegetation

• rehabilitate riparian zones between carpark areas

• include interpretive signage along the trail and at nodes that describes the vegetation and the reasons why revegetation has been undertaken

• remove unsafe infrastructure (e.g. steel girder across gully) and provide pedestrian bridges to trail where necessary

• incorporate resting areas along the trail that provide opportunities to view the river

• incorporate informative, regulatory and interpretive signage.

• design considerations must take into account the flood prone environment and be engineered to withstand flood activity, with use of appropriate materials and construction for flood prone areas

Opportunities: art trail A public art installation within the trees and vegetation along the trail, offering a new understanding about the environment and diverse ecological stories and bringing a focus onto the natural setting.

Opportunities: bush food trail Acknowledging the traditional Gumbaynggirr owners and custodians, incorporating native tucker plants into the revegetation program, for a self-guided experience.

Opportunities: environmental trail A linear arboretum that celebrates trees, bush and water, weaving through the landscape.

Timboon Road Connecting Trail A trail that weaves a connection between old and new landscapes. A linear passage through trees forming a walking track that connects settled farmland to natural bushland and regenerated zone.


22 Chapter 4: Solutions, Strategies + Recommendations | Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan | March 2016 Site Plan: Timboon Rd Connecting Trail (Earl Preston to Broken Bridge)

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3

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1 Earl Preston Reserve with new picnic node

2

2 upgraded Arthur Keough Reserve

3 relocate gravel bench to south side of creek in form of rock groynes (to engineering detail)

4 walking trail connecting Earl Preston and Broken Bridge Reserves

5 weed removal and revegetation works to riparian vegetation

6 new designated carpark (gravel/decomposed granite surface) defined by timber bollards

7 designated creek access and viewing point. A limited number of access points to be formalised with other accesses rehabilitated and revegetated.

8 formalised access to creek and swimming hole

9 formalised access to gravel bench and creek

10 formalised access to swimming hole with surrounds revegetated

11 erosion to gully and surrounds rehabilitated and revegetated, new bridge over gully as part of trail

12 existing vehicular access closed and pedestrian trail continues to creek

13 new pedestrian bridge over creek

TIMBOON ROAD

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existing access closed and revegetated

Timboon Road riverbank stabilisation

Never Never RiverNOTE: RFS access to creek from Timboon Road to be provided. Access to be 3 to 4 metres from deep water. Refer detail for car parking strategy and new bridge at Broken Bridge.

Scale 1:25000

16

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Note: Design considerations must take into account the flood prone environment and be engineered to withstand flood activity, with use of appropriate materials and construction for flood prone areas.23 Chapter 4: Solutions, Strategies + Recommendations | Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan | March 2016

Timboon Road Connecting TrailStrategies for connecting trail, car parking and revegetation

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1 Designated car parking along Timboon RoadStrategy - Identify, from the existing cleared gravel areas along Timboon Road, the most appropriate locations for car parking. This will be level gravel areas that can be easily accessed from Timboon Road and locations where there is no remnant riparian vegetation. Delineate car parking areas allowing for 90 degree nose in parking. Install timber bollards, logs, boulders or other natural elements as barriers at the extent of the parking. Install small scale signage on at least one barrier per car parking area to indicate that parking is to occur as nose in. Provide a gravel surface to the carpark area. Design development for proposed car parking should incorporate site specific survey information, engineering, and refer to the Bellingen Shire Roadside Management Plan.

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Identify the most appropriate location for creek access pointsStrategy - Identify those locations on the creek that are most popular. These will tend to be associated with swimming locations and rocky outcrops. Identify the most used and logical access to this location.

Identify the excess accesses that can be closed and revegetatedStrategy - Revegetate these closed tracks with riparian vegetation. These revegetation areas may need to be temporarily fenced to deter pedestrian access. Include small “Revegetation Area” signage to fencing to encourage positive community response to the closed paths.

Establish defined accesses to Never Never CreekStrategy - Provide defined accesses to locations on the creek which are popular for swimming. These defined access points would be similar to typical National Park trails in that they would comprise a natural surface which would compact through regular use. Occasional maintenance would be required (e.g. post flooding or storm event).

Install interpretive and trail signage to the new walking trail

Establish a trail between Earl Preston and Broken Bridge ReservesStrategy - Install a nature trail along the creek between the two Reserves. The route should follow the contours of the creek bank. The trail should utilise weed infested areas where clearing will be part of the process of rehabilitation. The trail should meander along the creek bank, coming close to the new car parking areas but meandering through the rehabilitated riparian vegetation at other locations. The trail should take in views to the creek and the variety of riparian vegetation.

Rehabilitate and revegetate the riparian vegetation to Never Never River along Timboon RoadStrategy - Close off the excess trails that have been formed to the creek. Decompact these areas and revegetate with riparian groundcovers. Temporary fencing and signage should be provided to discourage pedestrian movement through these zones. Provide car parking areas along Timboon Road. Revegetate the areas between. This process will need to include the decompaction of the subgrade where vehicular movement has compacted the ground. Remove the gravel surface. Revegetate with riparian species. Provide temporary fencing and signage to the edge of these revegetation areas.Scale 1:200

Broken Bridge ReserveBroken Bridge is to become a new walk-in destination on the Timboon Road walking trail, a destination that provides a car free, nature focused experience.

• provide a new accessible pedestrian bridge at the site of the old bridge to create a continuous trail between Earl Preston Reserve and Broken Bridge Reserve

• new bridge design development criteria to include: - accessibility - structural engineering to requirements for flood prone environments considering 1:100 Year Flood Planning Levels - appropriate materials and construction for flood prone areas - incorporation into Council’s ongoing operations and maintenance program

• reduce the encroachment and degradation that is occurring on the riparian vegetation by managing vehicular and pedestrian movement along Timboon Road and at Broken Bridge Reserve

• encourage appreciation of the natural setting and riparian environment and the history of the site through new interpretive and trail signage

• create a link between the Reserves that encourages understanding of the Never Never River as a broader natural habitat rather than isolated picnic/swimming locations.

• provide a viewing node and

interpretive signage on the bridge history on the Timboon Road side pedestrian bridge access.

• provide ongoing access to the river for Rural Fire Service emergency vehicles

• protect the river from vehicular access

• discourage trespassing onto private property

• incorporate informative, regulatory and interpretive signage.


• close and remove the existing dangerous and degraded access and entry from Promised Land Road.

• provide for a connection to Broken Bridge Reserve from Timboon Road

• revegetate the existing vehicle track

• rationalise the trails to the swimming hole and provide trail signage at the entry of the main trail.

• create a picnic/seating area in a bushland setting

• provide infrastructure that is in character and appropriate to the river and bush setting

• no bins - as per National Parks & Wildlife ‘leave no trace’ model.

• rehabilitate and protect the fragile riparian environment whilst providing ongoing access to a popular river location and swimming hole.

• provide signage to indicate the presence of private property and to discourage trespassing

• incorporate regulatory parking signage along closed access entry on Promised Land Road

• provide interpretive signage.

Opportunities: public art installation or education space A natural bush setting providing a space for reflection, contemplation and learning.

Broken Bridge Reserve A car free, nature based bushland setting in the manner of a National Park reserve


26 Chapter 4: Solutions, Strategies + Recommendations | Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan | March 2016 Site Plan: Broken Bridge Reserve

1 designated carparks with bollards to restrict vehicular movement

2

new walking trail from Earl Preston Reserve34 trail continues to bridge with existing public vehicular access closed

and revegetated. Gated access to creek for RFS.

5

new pedestrian bridge as part of trail. Gully and surrounds rehabilitated and revegetated

6 riparian zones revegetated (temporarily fenced until established)

viewing node at old bridge abutment with interpretive signage about bridge history

7 new pedestrian bridge with ramped access

8

910

new picnic node with picnic tables, seating and potential artwork

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‘positive’ signage encouraging respect for private property

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entry node and signage to creek access

Physical access barriers. Regulatory signage along Promised Land Rd - parking restrictions

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most popular access to creek maintained as trail. Other trails closed and revegetated.

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existing vehicular track closed and revegetated

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Never Never River

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picnicrock

pebbly beach

swimming hole

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revegetated informal trails with riparian groundcovers to restrict and redirect access along main trail

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Scale 1:500

Arthur Keough ParkThe Park is to be maintained and enhanced as a popular riverside recreation area with a focus on improving the river profile and providing for the longevity of the river banks

• install pedestrian/vehicle access grid to replace cattle grid and create a safer pedestrian entry from Gleniffer Road

• provide greater shade to the carpark and recreational area with increased tree planting of indigenous riparian tree species

• provide a greater open grassed areas in line with the historical use of the park

• rationalise revegetated areas so that the park is more usable

• upgrade picnic facilities and the BBQ

• no bins - as per National Parks & Wildlife ‘leave no trace’ model

• define the river access points

• adopt existing engineering strategies to remove the gravel bench, improve the flow of water and reduce the potential for erosion to the southern river bank

• restore river bed and banks through instream realignment, north bank gravel bench corrections and south bank revetment as per Northern River Catchment Management Authority sketch plan (refer page 29)

• provide perimeter planting to assist in defining the boundaries to the public space and adjacent private properties

• incorporate informative, regulatory and identity signage

• removal of dangerous dead Camphor laurels



12

3 new entry signage4 existing access and boulders retained

5 existing carpark with boulders retained. Steel gate at southern extent of carpark retained.

6 existing revegation to be supplemented with shade tree planting for carpark

7 new gardens featuring indigenous species to create perimeter to public space

8 grassed opening from carpark with interpretive signage at park entry

9 additional gardens to carpark to include mixed indigenous species and shade trees

10 new picnic facilties

11 remove existing planted area to provide large open grassed area to park

12 new revegetation planting to create perimeter to public space and discourage access to private property

13 remove gravel from bench to NRCMA plan, watercourse widened

14 new log/rock deflector groynes constructed to engineering detail as per NRCMA plan

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‘positive’ signage encouraging respect for private propertyremove dead Camphor laurels

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1 bollards or natural barrier to restrict car parking across private driveway. Regulatory signage

2 replace cattle grid with pedestrian accress grid

16

Coffs Harbour Office AMP Centre 24 Gordon St PO Box 1417 Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Telephone (02) 6653 0150 Facsimile (02) 6652 3936 Website www.northern.cma.nsw.gov.au

SKETCH PLAN: Keough Reserve - Never Never River Gleniffer

Contact: Peter Corlis Phone: 02-6653 0115 Fax: 02-6652 3936 Email: [email protected]

DATE: 7th May 2013

E: N:

Never Never River

Bridge

Existing pins

Existing rock girdle

Lop vegetation on bar

Peter Corlis Catchment Coordinator Northern Rivers CMA

Use gravel from bar to fill deflector groynes

Construct log / rock deflector groynes to standard design.

Construct pin groynes to standard design.

Estimate of Cost: Deflector groynes

• 120 tonnes of run of quarry rock @ $40/tonne = $4,800

• 30 hardwood logs 4m x 0.3m = $6000 • 50m galvanised steel cable = $200 • Hardwood pins = $500 • 24hrs excavator time @ $200/hr = $4,800 • Revegetation 350 plants @ $5/plant =

$1,750 Total = $18,050

Coffs Harbour Office AMP Centre 24 Gordon St PO Box 1417 Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Telephone (02) 6653 0150 Facsimile (02) 6652 3936 Website www.northern.cma.nsw.gov.au

SKETCH PLAN: Keough Reserve - Never Never River Gleniffer

Contact: Peter Corlis Phone: 02-6653 0115 Fax: 02-6652 3936 Email: [email protected]

DATE: 7th May 2013

E: N:

Never Never River

Bridge

Existing pins

Existing rock girdle

Lop vegetation on bar

Peter Corlis Catchment Coordinator Northern Rivers CMA

Use gravel from bar to fill deflector groynes

Construct log / rock deflector groynes to standard design.

Construct pin groynes to standard design.

Estimate of Cost: Deflector groynes

• 120 tonnes of run of quarry rock @ $40/tonne = $4,800

• 30 hardwood logs 4m x 0.3m = $6000 • 50m galvanised steel cable = $200 • Hardwood pins = $500 • 24hrs excavator time @ $200/hr = $4,800 • Revegetation 350 plants @ $5/plant =

$1,750 Total = $18,050

Arthur Keough Park


• provide for designated car parking with an integrated edge of bollards, boulders and low planting

• revegetate the existing open grassed area to reduce maintenance requirements and extend the revegetation works

• improved identification of arboretum and seating along trail

• incorporate informative, regulatory and interpretive signage

• acknowledgement of Landcare and community works.

• no bins - as per National Parks & Wildlife ‘leave no trace’ model.

Angel Gabriel Capararo ReserveThis Reserve will retain its natural bushland focus and provide an arboretum trail with identification of indigenous species


31 Chapter 4: Solutions, Strategies + Recommendations | Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan | March 2016 Site Plan: Angel Gabriel Capararo’s Reserve

NOTE: In conjunction with Forestry NSW, it is proposed that strategies and design solutions for management of parking at the Gleniffer Reserve sites should also be applied to the informal road reserve parking area North of Capararo’s Reserve, at the State Forest entry access area for the Christmas Holes (outside of Council’s Reserve).

1 designated car parking with gravel surface

2

2 upgraded Reserve sign in keeping with palette of new signage adopted across the Reserves

3

4

5 signage at entry to arboretum trail

seating along arboretum trail

6 new trail through existing arboretum with plaques or other signage to identify tree species to visitors

7

Rivercare award relocated to more prominent location

8 revegetate existing grassed area to reduce maintenance requirements for the Reserve. Carpark to provide ‘overflow’ facilities for the popular Christmas Holes area.

boulders/logs to prevent vehicular access into Reserve

PROMISED LAND ROAD4

5

Neve

r Nev

er R

iver

1

3

7

8

approximate boundary

9

9

Christmas Holes

Scale 1:500

6

Picnic facilities Seating, bollards, pathways Gabion rock elements Amenities Bridges

Precedent


Good leadership and management inspires custodianship, recognising that the Reserves will continually change, and will require ongoing planning, management, maintenance and care.

Visitation AssessmentIn developing the Master Plan, information on visitation numbers, visitor behaviour, site usage and traffic has been anecdotal, based on reports from residents, observation during consultant site visits, and the community consultation process. No comprehensive visitor surveys, traffic, or tourism studies have been undertaken.

Some initial data on visitor numbers has been collected at State Forest sites by Forestry NSW (including Christmas Holes and Tallowwood Bridge), during January 2015 and the Easter school holidays.

It is proposed that Bellingen Shire Council work in partnership with Forestry NSW to develop a more comprehensive visitation survey, and undertake data collection across the Gleniffer Valley, the Gleniffer Reserves, and key State Forest recreational destinations. Detailed information should include visitor numbers, profiles, usage patterns, seasonal fluctuations, and traffic data in order to assist with establishing site and road carrying capacities.

This may be undertaken in conjunction with the Reserve Plans of Management, and proposed Road and Traffic management Plan by Councils Traffic Management Committee.

Additionally, it is proposed that a detailed investigation of sustainable tourism be undertaken for the Gleniffer Valley, as part of a sustainability study of the broader Bellingen Shire. This would be necessary to accurately determine sustainable targets for tourist visitation of the Gleniffer Valley as well as other environmentally sensitive locations throughout the Bellingen Shire.

This may be undertaken in conjunction with the Economic Development and Tourism Plan, currently in development.

PlanningReserve lands are under the care and control of Bellingen Shire Council and are classified as community land. Council is required to prepare a Plan of Management (PoM) for the management of community land.

A PoM was prepared for Arthur Keough Park in 2011, with a portion of works undertaken in 2013. Integrated PoMs should be developed for the remaining Reserves, with an update to the Arthur Keough PoM.

The Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan will form part of the future PoM for the Gleniffer Reserves.

Road and Traffic ManagementThere is strong community concern over road safety and traffic management issues within the Gleniffer area. There has been extensive feedback regarding speeding drivers on poorly maintained roads, hazardous driving and parking around narrow corners, unrestricted parking extending from road reserves across private property accesses, and dangers to pedestrians.

Establishment of a Road and Traffic Management Plan should be undertaken by Council’s Traffic Management Committee, including a review of signage, options for parking regulation, speed limits and road maintenance.

Parking and traffic management initiatives should be considered in conjunction with Forestry NSW.

This should include review and assessment of the following:

• regulatory signage required to allow effective compliance and enforcement

• speed limit reduction in high risk areas

• no parking zones and other parking restrictions

• 5P parking zones as an effective method of discouraging overnight stays

• siting of parking within the Council road reserve and actual reserve areas along Timboon Road, with consideration for potential adjustments of

road positioning away from the the road reserve at Earl Preston

• the Bellingen Shire Council Roadside Vegetation Management Plan

• discouragement of coach visitation by means of no provision of turning circles.

RegulationThere has been an increasing demand by the Gleniffer community for increased ranger presence at the Gleniffer Reserves and adjacent State Forest sites, in particular the Christmas Holes near Capararo’s Reserve.

There has been an increase in community concerns over illegal camp fires causing fire hazards, illegal camping, parties and anti-social behaviour.

Illegal and anti-social behaviour guidelines and regulation should be communicated through on-site signage, and enforced by the Council ranger.

Bellingen Shire Council has indicated support for increased ranger presence, particularly during peak periods, and to work jointly with Forestry NSW and police to develop a coordinated approach to a regulatory presence that will reinforce positive behaviour and reduce negative behaviour.

Incidents can be reported to Council (6655 7300). After hours calls are diverted to a call service, and forwarded to rangers or police if deemed to be an emergency.

There is a need for incident report protocols to be reviewed and clarified to the public, through on site signage and community education.

There have been reports of uncontrolled dogs on Reserve sites, dog fights and defecation in the river. It is proposed that dogs should be restrained on leads, and restricted from swimming areas.

MaintenanceMaintenance activity currently undertaken by Council includes rubbish collection, roadside maintenance, mowing, weeding and upkeep of the picnic and BBQ facilities in the Reserves.

The Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan recognises there will be increased operational and maintenance costs associated with the establishment and improvement of facilities of the Gleniffer Reserves.

Gleniffer locals have assisted with maintenance of the Reserves over the years. The Master Plan proposes initiatives which encourage community engagement, participation and co-operation and facilitate ongoing care of the Reserves.

Stewardship Advisory GroupA Gleniffer Stewardship Advisory Group (GSAG) should be established to guide the implementation of the Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan, provide advice to Bellingen Shire Council and steer ongoing commitment to the protection, preservation and sustainability of the Reserves.

The group should include representatives from Council, Never Never Catchment Group (Landcare), Gleniffer Community Association, National Parks & Wildlife, the Bellingen Chamber of Commerce and other interested stakeholders in the Bellingen Shire community.

The responsibilities of the Gleniffer Stewardship Advisory Group would be to:

• ensure that the vision of the Master Plan is implemented over the coming decade

• provide feedback and recommendations to Council for the ongoing management of the Reserves

• continue to engage with stakeholders, residents and the community to ensure the collective vision is achieved

• assist Council with development of tourism protocols, information guidelines and material and liaison with tourism bodies, businesses and user groups

• act as a forum to encourage and facilitate an integrated, inter-agency approach to Reserve management between Bellingen Shire Council, Forestry NSW and other relevant landholders

• act as a forum to encourage and facilitate ongoing community participation in protection of the Reserves

• assist with facilitating ongoing care and maintenance agreements between Council and the Gleniffer community

Management To achieve our aspirations for the future, many individuals, groups, and agencies will need to work together in a spirit of cooperation and support.

Bellingen Shire Community Strategic Plan

33 Chapter 4: Solutions, Strategies and Recommendations | Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan | March 2016

• assist in sourcing and applying for grant funding to enable the ongoing implementation of Master Plan recommendations.

PartnershipsIt is essential that Council and Forestry Corporation NSW work jointly with the community to develop a coordinated approach for visitor management throughout the Gleniffer Valley. Proposed strategies and recommendations for visitor and traffic management, and subsequent enforcement of regulations should be applied jointly throughout the Gleniffer Valley and State Forests.

Forestry NSW are currently undertaking a review of their Recreational Management Plan (RMP) for the State Forests of the Never Never River. Forestry NSW have indicated that consideration will be given to the Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan and that recommendations within the RMP document will be in alignment where appropriate.

An agreement has been made between Council and Forestry NSW to draft an MOU, with community input, to establish a joint approach to visitor management and enforcement across ‘shared’ visitor zones.

The Never Never Catchment Group (Landcare) has worked on restoration of the environment of the Never Never River since 1995. Council acknowledges thier valuable input, and will continue to work in partnership with NNCG to undertake works within the Reserves and throughout Gleniffer.

Other opportunities exist for Council to form partnerships with environmental organisations (such as Jaliigirr Biodiversity Alliance), landholders and community groups to collaborate in managing threats to biodiversity, manage conservation, preserve the health of our diverse communities and businesses, and strengthen communications between all.

It is recommended that the Gleniffer Stewardship Advisory Group would work with Council, in consultation with the community, to explore provisions for a community based volunteer ‘green ranger’ service.

FundingImplementation of the Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan is proposed to be staged over the next decade, and will require a commitment of resources beyond the section 94 funds that have been allocated to the project.

Various opportunities for funding will need be to considered by Council to achieve the outcomes. These could include:

• reviewing available funds within the Council’s Long Term Financial Plan, such as the Environmental Levy Community Fund

• State and Federal Government grants

• environmental conservation and cultural heritage grants

• private sector partnerships• opportunities for community

and other stakeholder contributions.

TourismThe Gleniffer Valley is a popular recreational tourist destination for visitors from outside the Bellingen Shire and the Coffs Coast, and the area has become a well-known tourist destination that is promoted regionally, nationally and internationally.

Mass promotion of the Promised Land is a key factor in the growing popularity of the Gleniffer area, the increase in visitation numbers, and the current condition of the Gleniffer Reserves.

The Promised Land has been a highly requested location for travel journalists to write about when doing features on the Bellingen Shire.

The Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan aims to:

• provideaframeworkforregulationofthetourismindustrytoensurethesustainablefutureoftheGlenifferValleyandtheReserves

• educatethebroadercommunityaboutthesignificanceandvalueoftheareaandtheimpactsofvisitation

• establishconsistent,simple,clearguidelinesforall.

The Gleniffer Valley is a valuable asset for the local tourism industry. Coffs Coast Marketing has actively promoted the area for a number of years, as part of an ongoing agreement between Bellingen Shire Council and Coffs Harbour City Council.

In early 2014, as a result of concern raised by the community, Bellingen Shire Council placed a moratorium on promotion of the Promised Land and the Gleniffer Valley by official tourism bodies. There has since been little active promotion of the area. With Council support there will be a directive to tourism industry bodies (Coffs Coast Marketing, Tourism Coffs Coast, North Coast Destination Network and Destination NSW) that all promotion of the Promised Land and the Gleniffer Valley cease permanently.

The directive should include:

• removal of the Promised Land content in the Coffs Coast television commercial and from the Coffs Coast website

• exclusion of the Promised Land content in future printed promotional material

• removal of the Promised Land content from industry social media sites

• ceasing to send journalists to the Promised Land or providing information to publications regarding the Promised Land

• educating journalists who request information about the Promised Land and the Gleniffer Valley about the reasons why this area is no longer sustainable as a tourism product.

There are numerous tourism operators offering accommodation within the Bellingen Shire and the Gleniffer Valley, including B&B establishments, guesthouses, AirB&B properties and farmstays, most of whom use their websites for promotion.

Local Chambers of Commerce provide channels for tourism information to local businesses. The Bellingen Shire Visitor Information Centres provide advice to visitors and locals. Businesses within the Bellingen Shire are sources of informal promotion of the Glenifer Valley to tourists.

Provision of information and guidelines will assist to disseminate the key messages regarding the Gleniffer Valley and the Reserves. It is proposed that the Bellingen Chamber of Commerce work jointly with the Gleniffer Stewardship Advisory Group to lead and develop information guidelines for sustainable use.

Guidelines should include:

• encouraging the removal of content regarding the Promised Land and the Gleniffer area from websites and future printed promotional material

• educating guests or customers who may be visiting the area about appropriate site usage and visitor behaviour

• educating guests or customers about the impacts of promotion of the Gleniffer area via social media and word of mouth.

In addition to the tourism industry there are many user groups and clubs including off road 4WD, trail bike, motorcycle, and campervan and RV groups who promote the Gleniffer Valley through their social media sites.

Liaising with these user groups should be undertaken by the Gleniffer Stewardship Advisory Group/Chamber of Commerce to encourage responsible use of Gleniffer area and the Reserves.

With sustainability being the key precept, the Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan aims to meet site carrying capacities, guide site usage, and address adverse visitor behaviour. It is noted that any improvements to the Gleniffer Reserves and the Promised Land may potentially result in an increase in tourist numbers.

Implementation of the Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan is proposed to be staged over the next decade. Periodic reviews should be undertaken throughout this period to assess the impacts of Master Plan outcomes on the Gleniffer Reserves.


A Shire Wide Approach: Bellingen Shire Economic Development and Tourism Plan

A widespread approach to preservation and development, commerce, tourism, and environmental education will build awareness of the importance of safeguarding the future of the Bellingen Shire, the Gleniffer Valley, and the Gleniffer Reserves.

Bellingen Shire Council are currently developing an Economic Development and Tourism Plan, which will adopt a shire-wide approach to tourism promotion of the Bellingen Shire, and aim to attract visitors to the region while protecting its natural resources and their environmental value.

The Bellingen Shire offers a variety of local recreation destinations that can sustain greater visitation rates, which may be promoted as alternatives to the Gleniffer Reserves. Swimming destinations include the Bellingen River, and tidal pools at Mylestom and Urunga. Picnic locations include Dangar Falls, Hungry Head, Mylestom, Jarrett Park, Sir Edmunds Reserve (Bellingen riverside park), and Urunga boardwalk area.

Alignment of tourism promotion strategy for the Gleniffer Valley with the Bellingen Shire Economic Development and Tourism Plan will enable sustainable promotion of the Gleniffer Reserves within a broader context.

Paci

fic H

wy

Waterfall Way

Dorrigo

Bellingen

Gleniffer

Urunga

Mylestom

DangarFalls

PACIFICOCEAN

Sydney

Brisbane

Armidale

Coffs Harbour

Management Directions and Recommendations

Item Direction / RecommendationSustainability Survey • BellingenShireCouncilworkinpartnershipwithForestryNSWtodevelopamorecomprehensivevisitation

survey,andundertakedatacollectionacrosstheGlenifferValley,theGlenifferReserves,andkeyStateForestrecreationaldestinations

• AdetailedinvestigationofsustainabletourismbeundertakenfortheGlenifferarea,aspartofasustainabilitystudyofthebroaderBellingenShire

Plans of Management • PrepareintegratedPlan(s)ofManagement(PoM)fortheGlenifferReserves,withamendmentstotheArthurKeoughParkPoM

Traffic Management • DevelopaRoadandTrafficManagementPlandirectedbytheCouncil’sTrafficManagementCommittee,reviewingsignage,accesscontrols,optionsforparkingregulation,speedlimitsandroadmaintenance.

Regulation Enforcement • IncreasedCouncilrangerpresence,particularlyduringpeakperiods,incorporatedintoCouncilAssetsmanagementprogram

• UndertakejointenforcementactivitywithForestryNSWandpolice

IncidentReporting • Reviewincidentreportingprotocols,provideonsiteinformativesignage,andpublicisereportingprocedure

Dogs • Informative/regulatorysignage

IllegalFires/Camping/Parties

• Informative/regulatorysignageandenforcementtoallReserves

Maintenance / Infrastructure

• ReviewcurrentandfutureReservemaintenanceprogramswithintheBellingenShireCouncilAssetManagementbudgets

• EstablishagreementswiththeGleniffercommunitytosupplementongoingmaintenanceprograms

Bins • NoprovisionofrefusebinsonanyReserve.Provideeducation&informativesignagearoundtheresponsiblemanagementandremovalofrubbishfromthereserves.

Stewardship Advisory Group

• EstablishaGlenifferStewardshipAdvisoryGroup(GSAG)toguidetheimplementationoftheGlenifferReservesMasterPlan,andsteerongoingcommitmenttotheprotection,preservationandsustainabilityoftheReserves

Partnerships • EstablishaMemorandumofUnderstanding(MOU)betweenCouncilandForestryNSWinordertoestablishajointapproachtovisitormanagementandenforcementacross‘shared’visitorzones.

• ContinuepartnershipwithNNCGtoundertakeworksatGleniffer

• Exploreallianceswithenvironmentalorganisations,landholdersandcommunitygroupsTourism • ProvideadirectivetotourismindustrybodiesthatallpromotionofthePromisedLandceasepermanently

• BellingenChamberofCommerce/GlenifferStewardshipAdvisoryGrouptoleadanddevelopinformationforlocalbusinessesonsustainableuseofGlenifferReserves

• LiaisewithusergroupsandclubswhopromotethePromisedLandviasocialmediasitestoencourageresponsibleuseoftheReserves

Review • UndertakeperiodicreviewsoverthenextdecadetoassesstheimpactsofMasterPlanoutcomesontheGlenifferReserves

“We hold the Bellingen Shire’s natural assets in trust for our community to use, enjoy,and benefit from, now and into the future”Bellingen Shire Community Strategic Plan


Education offers the opportunity to positively influence behaviours and attitudes of visitors from within our own community as well as from outside the Bellingen Shire.

The Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan proposes a broad approach to informing and educating the public, aimed at a number of different sectors.

Short and long-term recommendations include:

• informativeguidelines• schooleducationprograms• environmentalambassador

program• signage

Public education should be considered as part of a Shire-wide approach to environmental and tourism management, not only as a Gleniffer specific response.

Education initiatives should be developed by Council in conjunction with the Gleniffer Stewardship Advisory Group, in partnership with appropriate business, community and environmental groups.

Information material

The development of informative guideline material for tourism operators, local businesses and the general public should be undertaken in partnership with the Bellingen Chamber of Commerce and the Bellingen Visitor Information Centre management.

Information material should establish simple, clear guidelines for all that encourage positive behaviour, assist in reducing further negative impacts of visitation, and discourage exposure of the Reserves on social media. Positive and practical messages should be utilised.

Printed flyers with guidelines for behaviour at the Reserves should be developed and distributed via Bellingen Shire tourism operators, local businesses, Chamber of Commerce networks and the Visitor Information Centres.

Digital information should be distributed via the tourism industry, Chambers of Commerce and Visitor Information Centre newsletters or email databases. This would include directives around promotion of the Reserves and removal of Promised Land promotional content from tourism websites and other material.

Specific guidelines for the unregulated sector of Reserve user groups or clubs who may promote the Reserves via social media sites should be developed.

School education programs

School education programs provide a long-term approach to influencing attitude and promoting positive behavioural change. Connecting with students across the Bellingen Shire through schools enables a dialogue with students with a range of social and environmental values, with the potential to reach students who may not have a pre-existing sense of environmental responsibility.

Aimed at Year 6 students who are in a position to step into leadership roles in their schools and the community, a school education initiative would foster ‘nature connections’ and increase awareness, pride and respect for the environment.

Access to students would be via cooperation with the public and independent schools, where programs would take place. School principals and classroom teachers would be key partners by participating in the program activities and following up with complementary activities.

Program themes would revolve around knowledge of and value for our wild places. Participants would explore the scientific concepts of biodiversity, water conservation, and waste management, and have the opportunity to connect with the natural world around them in a profound and positive manner, thus affecting their long-term

attitudes and behaviour toward the local environment.

Education programs would be managed by Council in partnership with community environmental groups such as the Centre for Ecological Learning (CEL) and Bellingen EYE.

Environmental Ambassador Program: ‘Environmental education by stealth’

An environmental ‘Ambassador’ program is a sustainability education initiative that would be run by Bellingen Shire Council in partnership with the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) and volunteer community members.

Based on the LGA award-winning Coffs Coast Ambassadors tours model, an ‘Ambassador’ program harnesses authentic, passionate, local knowledge for a highly effective delivery of positive, non-confrontational environmental messages.

NPWS train volunteers in interpretation tour guiding and these ‘Ambassadors’ would then lead nature-based interpretive tours for the community. Specific biodiversity protection messages would be developed for the program in partnership with the NPWS and Landcare groups across the Bellingen Shire.

Council coordinate and fund the program by providing support and professional development for the tour guides and promoting the tours to residents and tourists.

Bellingen Shire ‘Ambassadors’ would run tours of their local Council bushland reserve, river area, creek or beach that they know and love, choosing their own tour location and topic, based on their local knowledge and interest.

In developing their tour interpretation plan, each Bellingen Shire ‘Ambassador’ would focus on how their tour will deliver up to three specific biodiversity protection actions as ‘take home’ messages for their tour participants.

With documented results of positive behavioural change, ‘Ambassador’ tours set an expectation that the local community really care, and reinforce social standards for acceptable behaviour.

‘Ambassador’ tours are minimal-impact, with limited spaces available per tour (12-20) and a maximum of four tours in each location per year.

Community engagement and participation

An inclusive approach to community involvement at the Reserves should be adopted to assist in ongoing protection and preservation of the Reserves and to foster community well-being,

pride and respect. Community projects facilitated by Council can offer opportunities for connections between community groups, participation in skills- learning, knowledge sharing and understanding of our culture and environments. Examples include:

• a community volunteer ‘green ranger’ service, potentially in conjunction with an environmental ‘ambassador’ program.

• community tree-planting open days at the Reserves in conjunction with Landcare or school programs

• collaborations with local artists and designers for public art projects at the Reserves in alignment with the Bellingen Shire Public Art Plan

• global river health connection programs between local kids and other kids around the world

• indigenous celebration or storytelling days at the Reserves or within State Forest sites (in partnership with Forestry NSW)

• working with community groups such as Bellingen Men’s Shed in creation of built elements such as picnic tables or other items for the Reserves

• ‘sponsor a tree’programs or other community participation programs that assist with environmental maintenance at specific sections within the Reserves (and other river locations in the shire).

Information and Education Increase awareness, knowledge and understanding of the Reserves’ natural, social and cultural values, engendering respect for environment and community


Signage helps to achieve a sense of place for the local community and visitors. It provides information that encourages appreciation and awareness for the environment, plays an important role as a tool in safety and risk management and can be used effectively to regulate visitor behaviour and activity.

The existing issues relating to signage at the Reserves include:

• dated, damaged and inconsistent signage

• a lack of information to positively guide visitors

• insufficient or non-existent regulatory signage

• inadequate communication of the environmental, cultural and historical significance of the Reserves.

ObjectivesThe signage at the Gleniffer Reserves should be designed with the overarching aim of mitigating negative visitor behaviour and usage to:

• encouragerespectandawarenessfortheenvironment

• promoterespectandconsiderationforlocalresidentsandneighbours

• bepositiveandwelcoming• beinformativeandaccurate• enhancethevisitorexperience

andunderstandingoftheReservesandsurroundings

The key objectives for signage design are to:

Increase awareness and guide visitor behaviour

Positively presented and well-designed signage encourages visitors to be more aware of, and responsive to, the special place they are visiting.

By providing visitors with simple, clear and consistent information to assist them during their stay at the Reserves they will perceive the place as both welcoming and well-cared for. Visitors who feel they are well looked after will value the Reserves more and are more likely to assist in their protection.

In order to minimise signage infrastructure throughout the area, it is recommended that a consolidated approach is taken, including placement of a signage/information board at key Reserve and State Forest access points, where informative and regulatory signage can be integrated for clear reference at one location.

Inform and regulate unacceptable behaviour

It is imperative that visitor rules and expectations at the Reserves are set by means of clear and concise regulatory signage. Rules and regulations must then be actively enforced through regular visits by Bellingen Shire Council rangers and penalties imposed for noncompliance.

Enhance understanding and appreciation through ‘storytelling’

Interpretive information aims to enhance visitor understanding of the values and importance of a place and its social, cultural and environmental context.

Signage should include Gumbayngirr language names for identification as well as current names.

A collaborative, consistent approach to signage design and implementation should be developed with Forestry Corporation NSW across adjacent State Forest areas.

Signage design and content would be developed in conjunction with Council, the Gleniffer Stewardship Advisory Group, community and environmental groups.


SignageApproach

include removal of old and damaged

signage

collaborate with the local community for interpretive signage development (artists/designers, historical society,

indigenous community)

meet disability access standards

for signage

create an appropriate, high

quality and consistent visual language

use natural, local and/or recycled

materials where possible

utilise an understated, minimal, robust and

durable palette

Signage

Signage at the Gleniffer Reserves should not dominate - it should be subtle, appropriate, and integrated into the experience and natural surroundings

Informative Signage Informative signage should clearly guide, direct and provide useful information about the Reserves and encourage responsible behaviour.

The following types of informative signage are required at the Reserve sites:

• naming/identificationofreserves

• privatepropertyidentification• acknowledgementof

communityinput(e.g.Landcare,GlenifferCommunity)

• availablefacilitiesinformation(parking,toiletlocations,rubbishremoval,BBQandpicnicfacilities)

The Reserve identification signage should be welcoming, and reflect the character of the site.

Clear identification of private property boundaries is proposed in conjunction with the use of barriers such as bollards and strategic planting.

Informative signage that promotes environmental awareness, and educates visitors to the Reserves about expected behaviours could include messages such as:

• please tread lightly... take only photographs, leave only footprints

• please respect the neighbours - this is their backyard

• we appreciate you taking your rubbish with you.

• thanks for doing the right thing by staying on the track

• we thank you for respecting our clean and unpolluted natural environment

• we and our abundant wildlife appreciate your careful driving and safe parking

• help this site grow - please keep off whilst regeneration is underway

• please keep sunscreen and insect repellent out of the water - generations of frogs will thank you!

“Guide them in a positive way… we would appreciate you treasuring this Reserve… we thank you for taking your rubbish with you.”

Community consultation comment


Signage

Design Precedent

‘Message’ Precedent

Interpretive SignageInterpretive signage communicates the natural and cultural meanings of the Gleniffer Reserves and provides opportunities for ‘storytelling’.

Interpretive Theme 1 - The natural environment: Creating awareness that the Gleniffer Reserves and their surroundings are a significant natural environmental asset.

Information content may include the riverine environment, native flora and fauna, ecology and conservation, and immersion in nature.

Signage content should be developed with input from environmental groups, National Parks & Wildlife, and Council’s sustainability officers.

Interpretive Theme 2 - Indigenous culture Recognition of local indigenous history and culture within the Gleniffer Valley.

Potential themes may include:

• traditional indigenous life in the Bellinger Valley

• connectivity and the relationships between plateau and coast

• old man dreaming stories• bush tucker identification

Collaboration with the indigenous community including Elders, local artists and the Local Aboriginal Land Council should be undertaken to develop content, in partnership with Council and Forestry NSW.

Interpretive Theme 3 - Pioneer settlement history: Interpretation of the history of pioneer settlement of the Gleniffer Valley.

Signage at the Earl Preston Reserve allows the opportunity to educate visitors about Gleniffer Valley heritage:

• pioneer settlement and family history

• the original village and first buildings

• late twentieth century arrivals: artists, hippies, greenies, the creative community.

In a holistic and integrated approach information may be incorporated into built elements such as seating, or simply delineated on the ground plane where the location of original building structures were. Development of signage content should be done in conjunction with:

• environmental groups• Never Never Catchment Group• Gleniffer Community Association, • Bellinger Valley Historical Society• National Parks & Wildlife • Bellingen Shire Council

“We want people to understand that we have something incredibly rare in the world.”


Signage

Recreate historic signage

Major place signage vertical

Horizontal interpretive panel

Horizontal interpretive panel

Trail marker

Parking bollards

Bollard signage

Major place signage

horizontal

Metal panel Timber sleepers

Earl Preston Reserve Reserve type: public parkland, historic precinct Interpretive themes: heritage, natural environment

Arthur Keough Park Reserve type: public parkland with natural riverside bush setting Interpretive themes: heritage, natural environment

Broken Bridge Reserve Reserve type: natural bush setting Interpretive themes: indigenous, natural environment

Capararo’s Reserve Reserve type: natural bush setting, minimal picnic facilities Interpretive themes: indigenous, natural environment

Timboon Rd Connecting trail (Earl Preston to Broken Bridge) Area type: natural bush setting, walking trail

State Forest

National Park

Private Property

Christmas Holes

1

C2

3

4

5

1

C

2

3

4

5

Tuckers Nob State Forest

Bellingen

Dorrigo National Park

Regulatory signage “Make it clear that other behaviour is unacceptable and unsustainable.”Regulatory signage refers to regulatory, hazard and statutory information signs. Regulatory signage is required in order to prohibit, mandate or restrict an action, or to warn of potential dangers. It must be made clear when the action is an offence under local legislation if someone does not comply with the instruction.

Regulatory signage should be incorporated into the Reserves with a minimum of visual interference with the natural surroundings, however it must be sufficiently prominent in order to enable clear communication of the regulations.

A consolidated approach to signage application should be taken in order to minimise the appearance of ‘over-regulation’, and reduce the amount of new signage required. Placement of a signage/information board at key Reserve and State Forest access points will allow informative and regulatory signage to be integrated for clear reference at one location.

It is recommended that a comprehensive review of current and proposed regulatory signage requirements be undertaken by Council’s Traffic Management

Committee as part of establishing a Road and Traffic Management Plan for the Gleniffer Valley.

A consistent approach to regulatory signage at adjacent State Forest sites should be developed by Council in conjunction with Forestry Corporation NSW.

Signage is required to manage the following inappropriate and/or illegal behaviours or activities:

• camping • parking• fire hazards and restrictions• 4WD and motorcycle access• unrestrained dogs• rubbish dumping• removal of native vegetation• parties or other non-approved

events.

Regulatory signage must comply with relevant Australian and International Standards, and where appropriate should be consistent with signage used by other agencies and states.

Where vandalism or removal of regulatory signage occurs, signage should be replaced immediately.

* Proposed key signage elements are indicated on the Master Plan site plans.

* Signage detail and development will be determined in the process of implementation of the Master Plan

Signage


Project staging and opinions of probable costImplementation of the Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan is proposed to be staged over the next decade. It is recommended that the majority of funds should be expended within the first two years of the Master Plan being adopted.Works outlined in this Master Plan for Arthur Keough Park include completion of existing Plan of Management restoration works, and are proposed to be incorporated into an updated Arthur Keough Park Plan of Management, to commence immediately with the allocated Section 94 funds. Following completion of the Plans of Management for the other three reserves, Section 94 funds can then be allocated to the remaining reserves as indicated by the priority list. These priorities are governed by the necessity to complete engineering type works prior to Landcare rehabilitation/restoration and prior to addition of new amenities. Capital infrastructure project priorities identified in the plan can be considered for inclusion in future capital program budgets through the annual budget preparation process. Following full expenditure of Section 94 funds, uncompleted items are intended to be undertaken as funding becomes available through a combination of grant funds, further Section 94 contributions and general revenue.

Priority Item Description Funding Source Opinion of Probable Cost ($)

Operational Responsibility

1 Complete works at Arthur Keough Park

1.1Restoreriverbed&banks-instreamrealignment:updateapproveddesign/consent&completenorthbankgravelbenchcorrectionsandsouthbankrevetment

Section94Funds 50000-60000 BSCAssets

1.2Signage-interpretive/entry Section94Funds 2000-3000 BSCTourism/Community

1.3Removalofdeadcamphorlaurel Section94Funds 5000-6000 BSCAssetManagement

1.4Replacementofcattlegridatentrance&withpedestrianaccessgridfromroadreserve Section94Funds 3000-5000 BSCAssetManagement

1.5WorksasdocumentedintheMasterPlanincludingnewamenities,andnewlandscapeitems Section94Funds 10000-12000 BSCAssetManagement

1.6Landcare-rehabilitationandrestoration Section94Funds 10000-12000 NNCG2 Planning, Management,

Regulation and Information2.1SecurityandSurveillance-increasedrangerpresencetoensureregulationandcompliance(additional10h/week) BSCOperational 25000 BSCAssetManagement

2.2Sustainabilitysurvey Section94Funds/BSC

BSCtocost BSC/GSAG

2.3UpdatePlanofManagement-ArthurKeoughPark BSCCapitalWorks BSCtocost BSCPlanning

2.4IntegratedPlansofManagement-BrokenBridgeReserveandTimboonRoad/EarlPrestonReserve/AngelGabrielCapararoReserve

BSCCapitalWorks BSCtocost BSCPlanning

2.5TrafficManagement BSCCapitalWorks BSCtocost TrafficManagementCommittee

2.6Regulatory/InformativeSignageacrossallMasterPlanreserves/roads/adjacentStateForestaccesspoints BSCCapitalWorks BSCtocost BSCAssetManagement

2.7BellingenChamberofCommerce/GlenifferStewardshipAdvisoryGrouptolead&developinformationforlocalbusinessesonsustainableuseofGlenifferReserves

BSCEconomicDevelopment

10000-15000 GSAG/BellingenCOC

3 Broken Bridge and Timboon Road

3.1TimboonRoadsoutheastriverbankstabilisation–design,consent&instreamworks Section94Funds 75000 BSCAssetManagement

3.2WorkstoTimboonRoadasdocumentedintheMasterPlanincludingcarparking,newwalkingtrail,accessandlandscapeitems

Section94Funds 20000-25000 BSCAssetManagement

3.3Timboonroadsouth/eastriverbankLandcare-rehabilitationandrestorationplantings Section94Funds 25000-30000 NNCG

3.4ReserveaccessclosurefromPromisedLandRoadandassociatedreplantingwork Section94Funds 10000-20000 BSCAssetManagement

3.5BrokenBridgewestbank–continue&completeLandcarebushregeneration,weedremoval(currentprojectsite) Section94Funds 10000 NNCG

3.6Newpedestrianbridge FurtherGrantFunding/BSC

BSCtocost BSCAssetManagement

3.7WorkstoBrokenbridgewestbankasdocumentedinthisMasterPlanincludingnewpicnicnodeandinfrastructure,riveraccessandlandscapingitems

FurtherGrantFunding/BSC


3.8Interpretivesignage FurtherGrantFunding/BSC

8000-10000 BSCTourism/Community

BSC BellingenShireCouncilCOC ChamberofCommerce

NNCG NeverNeverCatchmentGroupGSAG StewardshipAdvisoryGroup

41 Project Staging and Priorities | Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan | March 2016

Priority Item Description Funding Source Opinion of Probable Cost ($)

Operational Responsibility

4 Earl Preston Reserve 4.1WorksasdocumentedinthisMasterPlanincludingfencewirealterations,carparkingworkstoGlenifferRoad,landscapeitems,infrastructureitems,pathwaysandseatingnode


18000-20000 BSCAssetManagement

4.2CarparkingworkstoTimboonRoad FurtherGrantFunding/BSC




4.4Newtoiletfacilitybuilding(Note:ConsiderationwillbegiveninthePlanofManagementtoapotentialupgradeforpublicaccesstotheexistingtoiletfacilitiesatGlenifferHall)



5 Angel Gabriel Capararo Reserve(Note: All works in this section should be done in conjunction with Forestry NSW works)

5.1ConsultationandplanningwithForestryCorporationofNSW FurtherGrantFunding/BSC

BSCtocost BSC

5.2WorksasdocumentedintheMasterPlanincludingcarparkingworks,infrastructureandlandscapeitems FurtherGrantFunding/BSC


5.3Walkingtrailthrougharboretum,weedremovalandregenerationworks FurtherGrantFunding/BSC

5000-10000 NNCG



6 Maintenance 6.1Ongoingmaintenanceofreserves-includingmowing,cleaningandmaintenanceofanynewfacilities BSCOperational BSCtocost BSCAssetManagement7 Education 7.1Schooleducationinitiative FurtherGrantFunding/

BSC3500/year(plus1000

initialsetup)BSC/Community

EnvironmentalGroups

7.2Environmentalambassadorprogram FurtherGrantFunding/BSC

10000/year(plusinitialsetup)

BSC/CommunityEnvironmentalGroups

42 Project Staging and Priorities | Gleniffer Reserves Master Plan | March 2016

gleniffer reserves master plan - bellingen shire · kilometres northwest from the township of...

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