Gippsland STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS STATEMENT APRIL 2019

Integrated Water Management Forums

Integrated Water Management Forums Acknowledgement of Victoria’s Aboriginal communities

The Victorian Government proudly acknowledges Victoria's Aboriginal communities and their rich culture and pays its respects to their Elders past and present. The government also recognises the intrinsic connection of Traditional Owners to Country and acknowledges their contribution to the management of land, water and resources.

We acknowledge Aboriginal people as Australia’s first peoples and as the Traditional Owners and custodians of the land and water on which we rely. We recognise and value the ongoing contribution of Aboriginal people and communities to Victorian life and how this enriches us. We embrace the spirit of reconciliation, working towards the equality of outcomes and ensuring an equal voice.

© The State of Victoria Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning 2019 This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International licence. You are free to re-use the work under that licence, on the condition that you credit the State of Victoria as author. The licence does not apply to any images, photographs or branding, including the Victorian Coat of Arms, the Victorian Government logo and the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) logo. To view a copy of this licence, visit creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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ISBN 978-1-76077-420-2 (Print) ISBN 978-1-76077-421-9 (pdf/online/MS word)

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Cover photograph Tidal River. Courtesy: DELWP Integrated Water Management is a collaborative approach to water planning and management that brings together organisations with an interest in all aspects of the water cycle. It has the potential to provide greater value to our communities by identifying and leveraging opportunities to optimise outcomes. Contents

Foreword 1 Acknowledgements 2

At a glance 3 IWM Opportunities 4

Chapter 1 The way forward 6 Introduction 7 Enduring collaboration 8

Chapter 2 IWM in the Region 10 Vision and outcome areas for the Gippsland IWM Forum Region 12 Regional context 14 The case for IWM in the Region 16 Success stories 19

Chapter 3 IWM opportunities 22 State-wide and region specific initiatives 23 IWM opportunities: How were they selected? 24 Impact of IWM opportunities on the Forum's strategic outcomes 25 IWM project & strategy opportunities – overview 26 Priority Portfolio of IWM projects and strategies 28

Appendix 38 Additional IWM opportunities in the Gippsland Region 38 References 39 Glossary 39 Foreword

The Gippsland Integrated Water Management (IWM) Forum is one of 15 IWM Forums established across the state.

Water is one of the building blocks of the thinking, conversation and level form, and community health and life and is fundamental to the social of engagement that has seen IWM wellbeing. The Statement identifies fabric of our communities. Without being recognised and becoming part many important and innovative water they will fail to grow and thrive. of a new cooperative way for regional opportunities, backed by the Forum, Ensuring that our water is allocated planning. that can substantially transform and responsibly and enabling our cities, enhance the role that water plays in small regional towns and rural The Gippsland forum region our region’s way of life. communities to have the resilience incorporates the services areas needed to be healthy, active and of Gippsland Water and South I wish to thank the Gippsland IWM engaged communities is a long-term Gippsland Water. The East Gippsland Forum members for their commitment, goal of the Gippsland Integrated region is a separate forum area. energy and enthusiasm, and for Water Management (IWM) Forum. sharing their considerable knowledge While Gippsland is known as a region and experience of the region in The Gippsland IWM Strategic of high and assured rainfall and is one developing this Statement. It Directions Statement (SDS) highlights of the most secure dryland farming has been wonderful to see Water the key challenges in the region areas in the country, water managers Corporations, Councils, Traditional and also identifies collaborative are being challenged by changing Owners, land managers and the West IWM opportunities that can improve rainfall patterns and reduced stream Gippsland CMA working together resilience and liveability in cities flows. It is vital that alternative, fit so productively. The future vision and towns in the region. Our vision for purpose, sources of water be and exceptional strategic regional of working together to sustainably found to conserve precious potable response that has been endorsed manage water for current and supplies and reduce pressure on the by the Forum delivers outcomes and future generations means that we environment. Planning in the west benefits for both current and future will work together to create better of the region is also challenged by generations. It is rewarding to see the ways of managing the water cycle its proximity to Melbourne and the vision of the Victorian Government’s by balancing community, cultural, increasing pressure for housing and Water Plan put into practice. environmental and economic values. lifestyle properties in the areas on Our goal is to support growth and Melbourne's fringe and along the I also wish to acknowledge the resilience while conserving the unique coast. However, these new growth considerable input and support of natural landscapes of Gippsland. areas also present an opportunity DELWP officers and the support given to embed IWM thinking in planning by the state-wide Chairs forum. There have already been numerous schemes and practices by land excellent examples of Gippsland and water managers working communities and organisations cooperatively. working together to integrate the planning and delivery of water It is my pleasure to present the Joan Liley projects. In 2018 we have worked Strategic Direction Statement for Gippsland IWM Forum Chair together at both practitioner and the Gippsland IWM forum, which is forum level to formalise future an outstanding example of regional projects and embed integrated collaboration by a diverse Forum thinking into the plans of the region. membership with interests in land, We are beginning to see a change in water, waterways, the urban built

Gippsland Strategic Directions Statement 1 Acknowledgements

The Gippsland IWM Forum covers Gunaikurnai and Bunurong country, whose ancestors and their descendants are the Traditional Owners of this country.

The meetings of the Forum and individual meetings with project sponsors have developed initiatives from ideas into mature project themes. Collaboration and cross-pollination has been a key outcome of the Forum, with ideas being shared and improved by input from project partners.

The Gippsland Strategic Directions Statement has been developed in collaboration with:

The Forum will continue to work with other organisations along the IWM journey.

2 Gippsland Strategic Directions Statement Chapter 1

At a glance

The Gippsland Integrated Water Management (IWM) Strategic Directions Statement highlights the key challenges in the region and also identifies collaborative IWM opportunities that can improve resilience and liveability in cities and towns in the region.

Vision

Working together to sustainably manage water for current and future generations

Strategic outcomes:

1. Safe secure and affordable supplies that are fit for purpose

2. Effective and affordable wastewater systems

3. Understand and manage flood regimes to sustain natural systems while minimising adverse impacts

4. Healthy and valued waterways, wetlands, lakes, coastal environments and groundwater systems

5. Healthy and valued agricultural, rural and urban landscapes

6. Community values reflected in place-based planning

7. Recognise opportunities to enhance jobs, economic growth and innovation Water for liveability. Courtesy: DELWP

Gippsland Strategic Directions Statement 3 IWM opportunities

Partners of the Gippsland IWM Forum are committing their best endeavours to ensure priority projects and strategies are progressed in line with the shared vision and strategic outcomes of the Forum. Fifteen priority opportunities have been identified in the region and these have been grouped into five themes- flagship opportunities, increasing community wellbeing through improved liveability, achieving the best outcomes in a changing context, strengthening Gippsland’s natural assets for future generations, and driving economic opportunities for Gippsland. The opportunities are listed alphabetically within the themes.

Flagship opportunities 2 Repurposing dams at Little Bass, 3 Kernot Lake water supply Coalition Creek, Ness Gully and These opportunities have been selected Bellview Creek Kernot Lake, an important amenity feature in to demonstrate the value of IWM, and the the town of Morwell, may lose its current water IWM Forum process in a short time frame, Following the upgrade of water supply supply and run dry if action is not taken. as well as to act as a catalyst for other infrastructure in the region, several dams will Surrounded by Immigration Park, Federation IWM projects in the region. be available for repurposing. There are a TAFE and the newly established High Tech large variety of future uses are possible such precinct, Kernot Lake is located adjacent 1 Council IWM Plans as community recreational uses, stormwater to residential housing and is visible from harvesting for fit-for-purpose supplies, Princes Drive, an area of high density traffic. An IWM Plan will be developed for each commercial or industrial use. An options Maintaining the current amenity of this asset shire council in the region, which will help analysis will determine the best balance of is essential to the pride of the community to identify and prioritise IWM opportunities costs and benefits for repurposing these of Morwell and the broader Latrobe Valley. which can be delivered by councils and assets for community benefit. Timely development of an options analysis their regional partners. will determine alternative water supplies and effective treatments to improve water quality that could provide the best balance of costs and benefits. This will link into the work being done on the adjoining Waterhole Creek.

Increasing community wellbeing through improved liveability

In Gippsland green open spaces such as parks and sporting reserves can be the heart of the community. Keeping these Gippsland spaces irrigated with fit for purpose water will enhance the liveability of the region and have positive impacts on residents' Noojee 5 wellbeing. 9 Maffra 4 Greening sporting reserves in Erica 4 15 Drouin Baw Baw Shire 10 Sale Warragul To ensure sporting reserves remain green Rosedale and playable, even in times of low rainfall, 8 Traralgon Moe Baw Baw Shire are exploring alternative 3 Morwell water supplies for irrigation. This project will investigate the options for key open spaces Korumburra and prioritise a scheme for delivery, as well as 11 13 Leongatha explore options for planned growth areas. 6 7 2 Yarram Wonthaggi 14

Foster

Region wide opportunities 1 12

4 Gippsland Strategic Directions Statement 5 Maffra stormwater harvesting 9 Mt Baw Baw Water Storage Driving economic for Snow Making opportunities for Gippsland An investigation of stormwater harvesting opportunities in the town of Maffra to The addition of water storage at Mt Baw Water is a key enabler for economic improve liveability by supporting open Baw could support additional snow- opportunities, these projects will space irrigation and integrating runoff making when needed to support the use an integrated approach to drive detention to alleviate flooding. Alpine recreation facilities. opportunities through the sustainable Stormwater pollution management of water. 6 South Dudley wetland 10 management at Willow Grove Integrated service enhancement The redevelopment of the area in South 13 Increased development in Willow Grove, for Leongatha and nearby towns Dudley around the Rescue Station into a which sits on the banks of Blue Rock Lake, stormwater treatment wetland system will threatens the water quality of the drinking The project aims to evaluate connection of provide not only environmental benefits, water catchment. Intercepting pollutants Meeniyan and Dumbalk to the Leongatha but also a valuable community recreation before they enter the lake will have positive water supply to improve service and space with walking and cycling paths. impacts on water quality. reduce development constraints in a declared water supply catchment. 7 Wonthaggi stormwater harvesting Strengthening Gippsland’s Recycled water for road 14 grading investigation A stormwater harvesting scheme to natural assets for future capture, treat and store stormwater for generations This project considers the viability, cost irrigation of two large ovals while also and ongoing risk of securing alternative providing storage that will help to Natural assets such as waterways and water sources to support road grading of alleviate flood risk downstream. coasts are part of the unique character unsealed roads to minimise use of potable of Gippsland and need to be protected water while maintaining appropriate Level for future generations. Through IWM the of Service. following projects will strengthen natural Achieving the best outcomes assets and ensure they are healthy and 15 Warragul and Drouin long term in a changing context valued. water supply security

With change comes the opportunity to 11 Bass Coast Biolinks The demand for potable water in Warragul do things better. There are many shifts and Drouin is exceeding supply in peak currently taking place across Gippsland Bass Coast Shire will lead the times, and with projected population including changes to industry, populations, implementation of the Biodiversity Biolinks growth these towns need further and climate. The following projects will use Plan by delivering vegetated riparian zones water supply security. There may be IWM to create an opportunity for better along waterways which will act to capture, opportunities to reduce or defer costs outcomes in the face of these filter and retain water in the landscape of a major augmentation by implementing major changes. while supporting biodiversity. potable water substitution initiatives, for example alternative supplies for parks, 8 Water for economic growth 12 Waterway Health Program recreation reserves and industry. in central Gippsland This project links to Greening sporting The waterway health program facilitates reserves in Baw Baw Shire. This project will further explore the high- work and management initiatives that level opportunities for leveraging the water will improve the health of waterways resources of the Latrobe system for the and deliver benefits for ecology and benefit of the broader Gippsland economy, communities. including the attraction of major industry and high-demand water users. Through the development of a water resources and future infrastructure prospectus, this proposal aims to put water as a key enabler of economic growth, particularly in the Latrobe Valley, where there is a concentration of available water resources due to industry transition.

Gippsland Strategic Directions Statement 5

Chapter 1 The way forward

An unprecedented opportunity to progress water cycle planning and management in Victoria through collaboration.

Ness Gully Dam. Courtesy: South Gippsland Water Chapter 1

Introduction

The Integrated Water Management (IWM) Framework for Victoria (September 2017) is designed to help regional stakeholders to work together, ensuring the water cycle contributes to the liveability of towns and cities in Victoria, with communities at the centre of decision making.

The central premise of an IWM Strategy for Victoria (2016-19). • Support DELWP to progress approach is the overall acceptance Furthermore, a ground-breaking priority strategic enablers for that managing urban liveability and partnership agreement with the IWM in Victoria. resilience is a shared responsibility Gunaikurnai Land and Waters and that water is a key enabler to Aboriginal Corporation (GLaWAC) It is envisaged that the SDS will be a achieving these shared aims. has been signed by 13 natural living document which will be updated resource agencies and organisations to reflect the current Gippsland IWM To facilitate this, IWM Forums have working across Gippsland, helping Forum’s priorities and opportunities. been established across the state to integrate water management to identify, prioritise and oversee to deliver shared outcomes. The the implementation of critical agreement supports objectives of collaborative opportunities. This the Gunaikurnai Whole of Country Integrated Water Strategic Directions Statement has Plan and will facilitate partnerships Management been produced by the Gippsland IWM in the region. The Bunurong Land Integrated Water Management forum to capture and communicate Council Aboriginal Corporation was is a collaborative approach those opportunities. established as a Registered Aboriginal to water planning that brings IWM seeks to build on existing Party in July 2017, helping to support together organisations that partnerships and planning processes. Traditional Owner involvement in water influence all aspects of the Regional stakeholders in the management in the west of the region. water cycle. It has the potential Gippsland region - such as Local to provide greater value to our Government Authorities, Catchment What is a Strategic communities by identifying and Management Authorities and Water Directions Statement? leveraging opportunities to Corporations, engage with their optimise the outcomes of communities regularly to improve This Strategic Directions Statement water cycle. service delivery and urban planning. (SDS) articulates the regional context, Community aspirations are embedded the shared vision and the strategic in the strategies and operational water-related outcomes for the plans for organisations throughout Gippsland IWM Forum region. the region. These aspirations reflect This SDS includes a list of IWM a desire for liveable and productive opportunities, including projects and places and vibrant communities. strategies, developed in collaboration The way in which we plan and use by the Gippsland IWM Forum partners. water is fundamental to ensuring Partners of the Forum are committing these aspirations are realised. their organisations to apply their best endeavours to: IWM in the region is also strengthened by the formation of the West • Ensure priority projects and Gippsland Catchment Partnership strategies are progressed in line area under the Government’s Our with the shared vision and strategic Catchments, Our Communities outcomes of the Gippsland IWM Integrated Catchment Management Forum; and to

Gippsland Strategic Directions Statement 7 Enduring collaboration

How we’re working together Each organisation has an important The Gippsland IWM Forum partners role to play in the decision-making will continue to work together to build The Gippsland IWM Forum identifies, and management of the water, inter-organisational trust and develop coordinates and prioritises areas that resources and assets for the entire productive, enduring relationships to would most benefit from collaborative region. realise the shared vision for the region. and place-based water management planning and delivery. Collaboration across IWM Forum Further information on the IWM partners will ensure balanced Forum’s governance and planning To ensure IWM is successful and consideration of the complex framework is outlined in the Integrated enduring across the region, the economic, environmental, cultural Water Management Framework for Gippsland IWM Forum partners have and community benefits and impacts Victoria, available at https://www. committed to the promotion of a associated with the range of proposed water.vic.gov.au/liveable/resilient- collaborative and shared values IWM projects and work programs. and-liveable-cities-and-towns/iwm- culture within their own organisations framework and beyond through their work with The Forum will continually collaborate key water cycle delivery partners and with other organisations outside the local communities. Forum to ensure the most benefit can be gained for the community. The Gippsland IWM Forum is governed by an open and transparent IWM planning process. This process assumes a holistic, whole-of-cycle approach to determining water cycle solutions, considering regulatory accountabilities and service delivery responsibilities. IWM Forum

Practitioner Network

Figure 1: IWM Forum Project Planning Project Planning Project Planning governance structure Group Group Group

8 Gippsland Strategic Directions Statement Chapter 1 Forum process: Summary of planned phases

Outcomes Participants Phase I

Establish Preliminary work on regional characterisation Local governments and collaborative governance Organisational leaders Catchment come together Agree vision, objectives and goals Management Authorities in collaborative IWM Forums and Agree criteria for selection and prioritisation Water corporations of IWM opportunities Working Groups to Traditional Owners discuss integrated IWM opportunities identified and prioritised water management Department of challenges, Collaboratively develop and endorse Strategic Environment, Land, opportunities Directions Statement for each region Water and Planning and priorities Chair for each region Others as relevant

Phase II

Planning Co-design and agree on Terms of Reference, Collaborative partners governance structure, stakeholder engagement and/ Cultivate a collaborative or community participatory planning guidance for Community culture to progress IWM project/strategy representatives IWM opportunities Others as relevant

Progress IWM Project Groups initiate work as per identified Collaborative partners project/strategy status, including: feasibility Forum Members use assessment; technical and economic analysis; Individual organisations best endeavours cost allocation; business case development who have committed to to progress IWM a project/strategy Next 12-18 opportunities Strategic enablers for IWM progressed by months to next stage DELWP with support from Forum Members Community representatives The feasibility IWM Project Groups report progress to IWM Forums of IWM Relevant stakeholders opportunities will be Incorporate IWM Project Groups to take IWM commitments Individual organisations continually (projects and strategies) to their Board or Councils who have committed reviewed and Collaborative for investment endorsement to deliver a project/ assessed Partner organisations strategy incorporate relevant IWM Project Groups incorporate elements into their in Phase II elements of IWM in their own organisational planning systems, e.g. Council to confirm own plans, guidelines or and corporate plans, Construction Guidelines, etc. the need for frameworks specific IWM Report back to IWM Forum projects/ strategies Realise Application of practical IWM tools and innovative Collaborative partners approaches IWM benefits are Individual organisations realised following Additional community value added through who have committed to implementation of participatory planning a project/strategy project/strategy Monitoring and evaluation of key measures and outcomes Community representatives Economic savings through shared resources, costs, etc. Others as relevant Improved resilience and liveability of cities and towns

Phase III

Prepare Collaborative partners prepare for next round Collaborative partners of IWM Forums IWM Forums prepare to refresh the Strategic IWM Forums collaboratively review key learnings Directions Statement and outcomes from Phase I & II, including progress on strategic enablers

Next round of IWM opportunity identification and prioritisation

Gippsland Strategic Directions Statement 9 Chapter 2 IWM in the Region

Understanding why an integrated approach to water planning and management is critical for the Gippsland IWM Region now and for the future.

Bellview Creek Dam. Courtesy: South Gippsland Water Rain water tank at Tidal River. Courtesy: DELWP Vision and outcome areas for the Gippsland IWM Forum Region

Outcomes

Safe, secure and affordable Effective and affordable Understand and manage flood Healthy and valued waterways, Healthy and valued agricultural, Community values reflected in Recognise and progress opportunities supplies that are fit for purpose wastewater systems regimes to sustain natural wetlands, lakes, coastal environments rural and urban landscapes place-based planning to enhance jobs, economic benefit and systems while minimising and groundwater systems innovation adverse impacts Objectives

Fit-for-purpose water sources Waste water systems are fit for Our communities are aware Waterways, coasts and other A balance of land uses is achieved between The broader community are Collaborative partnerships are explored, are identified which are most purpose, and exceed public of flooding and are actively environmental systems are cared for industry, agriculture, environmental and knowledgeable, engaged, empowered, and including with Aboriginal communities and appropriate for uses health and environmental taking measures to manage to become healthier and more resilient urban uses working together with responsible agencies organisations outcomes their flood risks to minimise the consequences to life, property, community wellbeing, the economy and the environment.

Long-term water security System design is flexible and Opportunities for use of flood Waterways, wetlands, lakes and The long term economic benefits of Traditional Owners and Aboriginal values Research is conducted to generate underpins planning innovative. Decentralised water are investigated coastal environments continue to agriculture are considered against the are acknowledged early and included in economic growth wastewater structures are attract investment and tourism, short-term economics of developing the project planning, delivery and management embraced continue to fulfil their multiple functions, land for housing, especially high value and include cultural heritage values agricultural land

Multi-barrier approach is used to Onsite wastewater systems Ensure flooding is considered in Traditional Owner and Aboriginal Resilient and connected waterways that Planning controls support IWM and are in Organisations work together to seek ensure catchments are managed are managed during planning, urban planning and emergency cultural values, knowledge and support community linkages to waterways, alignment with community values additional funding support for IWM in the and protected to maintain safe installation and maintenance management practices associated with waterways bays and coastal areas region and secure supplies cycles and landscapes are protected

Water resource resilience for Opportunities for waste recovery Waterways and coastal environments Traditional Owner and Aboriginal values Communities have a greater understanding Strategic thinking is applied at regional and cultural values, industries, and are explored are accessibly linked and valued as are understood and recognised early of the IWM projects happening in their area local scales to support economic growth natural environments public open space and included in the project planning and and have improved water literacy delivery

Organisations work together Waterways, coasts and other A balance of land uses is achieved between Actions in Water for Victoria with specific to protect water quality and environmental systems are cared for industry, agriculture, and urban uses regard to Traditional Owner consultation, quantity to become healthier and more resilient engagement, employment, and economic development have been comprehensively implemented

12 Gippsland Strategic Directions Statement Chapter 2

Vision IWM Outcome Areas Working together to sustainably manage The region is seeking to achieve seven water for current and future generations key outcomes through IWM. Each of these will have a significant role We will work together to create better ways of managing the water cycle by in shaping the liveability, prosperity balancing community, cultural, environmental and economic values. Our goal is and resilience of our cities and to support growth and resilience while conserving the unique natural landscapes towns. These outcome areas provide indicators to assess the effectiveness of Gippsland. of the various IWM opportunities, recognising that these outcomes are in themselves co-dependant.

Outcomes

Gippsland Strategic Directions Statement 13 Regional context

The Gippsland IWM Forum includes the regions of both South Gippsland Water and Gippsland Water, and roughly lines up with West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority’s border. The region covers an area of approximately 20,000 square kilometres, extending from Wonthaggi in the west to Lake Wellington in the east. Its southern border is the Gippsland Coastline, including Wilsons Promontory, extending north to the Great Dividing Range.

The landscape and climate of the Towns on the Melbourne fringe such The annual rainfall in the region region varies significantly between as Warragul, Drouin and Wonthaggi is predicted to decrease by coastal plains and the forested alpine are growing at a faster rate than the approximately 4.25 per cent by 2070 areas. Rainfall ranges across the rest of the region, and face pressure – primarily impacting the spring and region from about 600 mm/y around from increased water demand and winter seasons – while there is also an Sale to over 1500 mm/y on the Mt Baw urbanisation of farm land. expectation of a year-round increase Baw Plateau, but the region notably Parts of the region have relatively in temperatures. This presents a benefits from higher rainfall than many high unemployment and an aging challenge for the region, as there will other parts of Victoria. population, meaning that affordability be an increased demand for urban and enhancement of liveability are key water resulting from population growth Population priorities for areas such as the Latrobe together with a hotter drier climate. Valley. Gippsland will also be impacted by The region has an estimated sea level rise, with levels expected to population of 220,000, made up of Climate Change rise by 0.33-0.40m by 2070. This may 165,000 in Central and West Gippsland impact on agricultural land as well and 55,000 in South Gippsland. The By 2070, daily temperatures across as coastal towns and ecosystems region is forecast to grow to 285,000 the region are projected to rise by including estuaries. by 2040 (215,000 in Central and an average of 1.6°C to 2.6°C (median West Gippsland and 70,000 in South projection). This will be amplified in Gippsland). Greenfield developments urban centres due to the prevalence are both a risk and an opportunity for of darker and harder surfaces, leading water management in the region. to environmental and human health The region includes many small to impacts. Ensuring the provision of medium sized towns, including popular fit for purpose water for the region’s holiday destinations that receive urban greening will be a key priority in highly seasonal visitor populations. Key enhancing liveability and resilience for centres in the region include Warragul, the community and environment. Drouin, Moe, Morwell, Traralgon, Sale, Wonthaggi, Inverloch and Leongatha.

14 Gippsland Strategic Directions Statement Chapter 2

Gippsland

POPULATION GROWTH 220,000 NOW (2019) 285,000 BY 2040 1 30% INCREASE

CHANGE IN RAINFALL TEMPERATURE WATERWAYS 40,000KM OF WATERWAYS 2.2- 2.1-2.4˚C 33% INCREASE IN 'GOOD TO EXCELLENT' 3 4.5% BY 2065 2 CONDITION DECREASE 2 53% IN ‘MODERATE' CONDITION 3

1 Victoria in Future (2016)

2 DELWP (2017) Guidelines for assessing the impact of climate change on water availability in Victoria (average for Thomson, Latrobe and South Gippsland river basins)

3 West Gippsland Waterway Strategy 2014-2022

Gippsland Strategic Directions Statement 15 The case for IWM in the Region

Safe, secure Effective and Understand and and affordable affordable manage flood supplies that wastewater regimes to sustain are fit for systems natural systems purpose while minimising adverse impacts

Gippsland Water and South There are reticulated sewage systems Floodplains are a valued part the Gippsland Water provide water to approximately 70,000 properties ecosystem in the Gippsland region. supply services to the Forum region. across the region. These systems collect The ‘flooding’ process provide Together, they provide water supply and treat sewage at 25 wastewater essential nutrients to the region’s services to approximately 90,000 management facilities . A significant agricultural land. customers, with a total of 25 water number of wastewater management treatment plants in operation across schemes have been identified as In an urban context, flooding is more the region. The region is vast and a requiring works to adequately service of a challenge. Many of the urban number of smaller towns in the region expected populations over the next centres in the region are located are currently unserviced. 10 years. on waterways and floodplains. The Gippsland area has experienced A range of water sources are utilised In addition to these facilities there are damaging flood events in the past, by the providers, including river and many small towns in the region which notably in May/June 2012. Climate groundwater sources, with both South typically use onsite septic systems change will bring more intense rainfall Gippsland Water and Gippsland to treat their wastewater. Small events which will create further Water utilising connections to the towns wastewater management is a flooding challenges. It is essential Melbourne system as part of their common issue across the region from to manage the economic, social, supply portfolios. Both providers an environmental, health, technical, environmental and cultural values expect to be able to provide secure governance and financial perspective. from floodplains in a balanced way water supplies beyond 2065 in most For example, septic systems in whilst also having regard for their of their supply systems, with the Declared Water Supply Catchments inherent disadvantages and risks. exception of the growth areas of can increase the risk to public health This will be particularly relevant in the Warragul and Drouin as outlined in if not managed pro-actively. There context of increased extreme rainfall the Gippsland Urban Water Strategy. are particular pressures on septic events, urban growth and increased systems from seasonal populations in imperviousness in catchments. A decline in local major industries such coastal towns, resulting in impacts on as mining, and power generation has groundwater. resulted in a corresponding decline in major water users. The need for There are currently 13 water recycling water to rehabilitate coal mines into schemes in the Gippsland Forum area pit lakes after their closure is currently (9 in the Gippsland Water area and being considered and will be better 4 in the South Gippsland Water area). understood in the years ahead and These predominantly provide class B likely to be a challenge for the region. or C recycled water to agribusiness and irrigation customers. A class A recycled However, water demands related water scheme is in operation at the to tourism and snow-making are Gippsland Water Factory, providing emerging, which are substantial recycled water to Australian Paper. yet seasonal in nature.

16 Gippsland Strategic Directions Statement Chapter 2

Healthy and valued waterways, wetlands, lakes, coastal environments and groundwater systems

There are over 40,000kms of Latrobe River and ultimately to Lake of the waterways in West Gippsland waterways in the region which flow Wellington. In South Gippsland, the is critical to the sustainability of the to the Victorian coast, discharging waterways are short and flow from the region: “Waterways in the region either through the Gippsland Lakes, Strzelecki Ranges through productive support the regional and state to coastal inlets and embayments agricultural land as well as areas of economy by providing water for (Anderson Inlet, Shallow Inlet, Corner high conservation value. agriculture, industry and for urban Inlet) or directly to Bass Strait and the and rural communities, including Southern Ocean. The region includes several part of Melbourne’s water supply. internationally recognised Our iconic coastal wetlands and In the north of the region, the Thomson, environments including the Gippsland inlets including the Gippsland Macalister, Avon and Perry rivers flow Lakes RAMSAR site, Wilsons Lakes, Anderson Inlet and Corner from alpine areas and the forested Promontory National Park and the Inlet attract tourists to our beautiful slopes of the Great Dividing Range. Tarra Bulga National Park. region. Waterways are also valued In the central part of the region is for the recreational opportunities West Gippsland Catchment the Latrobe River. The catchment of they provide, their cultural values and Management Authority have the Latrobe River features areas of their role in the landscape supporting identified a series of priority rivers and remnant forest through the Strzelecki a range of ecological processes.” Ranges, Baw Baw Plateau and environments in the Gippsland region the Great Dividing Range, where in their Waterways Strategy. The tributary streams rise and flow to the strategy recognises that the health

Corner Inlet. Courtesy: DELWP

Gippsland Strategic Directions Statement 17 Healthy Community Recognise and and valued values reflected progress agricultural, in place-based opportunities to rural and urban planning enhance jobs, landscapes economic benefit and innovation

Healthy landscapes are valued in the The relationship between public Dairy farming and forestry are Gippsland region. Many national and health and wellbeing, and major industries in the region state parks as well as state forests the environment is becoming together with a range of other are frequently visited and viewed increasingly recognised as an agricultural activities including as important to the character of area of importance. The creation beef, lamb, wine, cheese and the region. of greener neighbourhoods and vegetable production. providing residents with access to Urban landscapes also play a key waterways and green space has the Water plays a key role in role for liveability and resilience. potential to support environmental, supporting industry in the region. Sporting grounds in both major social and economic outcomes. Power generation and paper centres as well as smaller rural towns New development is an opportunity manufacturing industries have have a great importance placed to integrate community values into traditionally been large water users on them within communities. Direct the evolution of towns and places, in the region, and water supply use of stormwater as a resource to while engagement of existing could be an attractor for other support local landscapes is relatively communities is also essential in the large industries in the future. The undeveloped in Gippsland with redevelopment and evolution of significant tourism and recreation some exceptions such as use of existing centres. economy in the region is also stormwater from Lake Guthridge strongly linked to the health and in Sale for irrigation of parklands. Engagement with Traditional amenity provided by the region’s Owners is a key focus for the region. waterways, lakes and towns. Urban waterways are viewed as key The Gippsland region covers the landscapes in the built environment traditional lands of Gunaikurnai and by councils in the region. Latrobe Bunurong people, and the many City’s community vision recognizes rivers and lakes in the area contain ‘it will be critical for future a rich and diverse range development to be sensitive to of important cultural heritage sites, natural resources such as water. such as the Tarra Bulga National For example, carefully planned Park, where in the Gunaikurnai integration of our urban waterways creation story, Borun travelled will ensure greater outcomes for carrying his canoe from the water quality, biodiversity links, mountains to the sea. and passive and active recreation links between communities.’

18 Gippsland Strategic Directions Statement Chapter 2

Success stories

There has been a lot of great work over the years by state and local government, regional agencies, communities, planning bodies and boards to identify what we need to do to address the challenges and opportunities in the region. Three recent examples of successful IWM projects are outlined below.

Supporting recreational areas in Foster using recycled water

Collaboration between South Gippsland Water, South Gippsland Shire Council and the community has resulted in the delivery of a sustainable and affordable water supply to the Foster Golf Club and the Foster Recreation Reserve. Both green spaces will be connected to a transfer pipeline from Foster Wastewater Treatment Plant and are expected to utilise 45ML of recycled water a year.

Maintenance of attractive and high- quality recreation spaces like the Golf Club is important for the success of small towns like Foster, that depend Neerim South wetland. Courtesy: Baw Baw Shire Council on tourism and visitors returning again and again. In the past, during summer, Neerim South wetland It was recognised early that a wetland the peak tourist season, the fairways would not only have environmental have died off without irrigation and This wetland was born out of the vision and amenity benefits, but it could become very patchy. This can leave of a forward-thinking community. capture and cleanse stormwater that a lasting impression on visitors. The Identified as the highest priority by could be harvested as an irrigation Foster Golf Club President Greg the Neerim South community in their supply for Neerim South Recreational Cox recognizes the direct economic community plan, the wetland was made Reserve and Neerim South Secondary benefits for the club and for the wider possible through the work of the Neerim College grounds. The construction of town that come from a new supply: South Wetland Working Group and the wetland also offered opportunities “For us it will mean better visitor support from the community. Schools, to create walking tracks, a place for numbers, which means better income. community groups, local businesses social and educational events and an The more people we’ve got coming to and individuals all contributed to the attractive natural area for the town. play at the club, the more revenue is scheme voluntarily. Project delivery being generated for the town too.” was supported by Melbourne Water, The wetland was completed in 2015 Victorian State Government and Baw and ongoing planting, education and Baw Shire Council. community activities are occurring.

Gippsland Strategic Directions Statement 19 Bellbird Park sustainable In 2016 infrastructure was installed to water use treat and use wastewater from the nearby Gippsland Water wastewater A partnership between Gippsland treatment plant for irrigation at the Water, Baw Baw Shire Council, Bellbird park. This has resulted in a superior Park Committee of Management and playing surface, as well as cost local sporting clubs has delivered savings and potable water savings of a secure alternative irrigation water up to 36ML a year. It has also provided supply for Bellbird Park in Drouin. environmental benefits through A prominent part of the community reduced wastewater discharge and landscape, the park is a major to the environment. sport and recreation facility which has about 130,000 visitors per year. Rainwater harvesting was not providing sufficient water for summer irrigation, and as a valued community asset it was important to utilise an alternative water supply to keep the park green and playing surfaces usable.

Recycled water use at Bellbird Park. Courtesy: Gippsland Water

20 Gippsland Strategic Directions Statement Transmission lines in the Latrobe Valley. Photographer Dorothy Chiro Chapter 3 IWM opportunities

A portfolio of IWM projects and strategies for which IWM collaborative partners have committed themselves to applying their best endeavours to progress.

Traralgon Vineyard. Courtesy: DELWP Chapter 3

State-wide and region specific initiatives

The IWM Forums were established in Victoria to identify, coordinate and prioritise place-based and catchment-wide opportunities that would most benefit from collaborative water cycle planning and management. This document outlines priority IWM opportunities for the Gippsland region. These include both strategies that will direct IWM in the region and specific projects that will deliver on-the-ground outcomes.

Alongside these opportunities, Advisory groups drawing on industry policy reform and associated areas the IWM Forum Members identified and independent expertise support of impact for industry sectors and a range of barriers that could DELWP in the development and organisations. prevent effective implementation implementation of strategic initiatives of IWM across regional Victoria and to fill knowledge gaps and address Advisory groups provide advice metropolitan Melbourne. issues identified through the IWM regarding areas where planning, water, local government and other The DELWP Water and Catchments Forum process. arms of government need to work Group is responsible for addressing Barriers to IWM are reviewed, with more collaboratively to maintain and these barriers to implementation in local implications and potential enhance the liveability and resilience a holistic manner alongside relevant state-wide resolutions discussed. of Victoria’s cities and towns. government organisations involved These discussions will help DELWP in land use planning and land determine potential options for management.

IWM framework at a State-wide and regional level State-wide initiatives

Enabling Policy Enabling Principles or rules that Frameworks put IWM into practise Guidance on analysis, design and delivery of IWM opportunities Region speciﬁc opportunities

Strategies Projects High-level directions designed to Planned set activities to be executed achieve IWM outcomes over a over a defined period and within defined time-period for a defined certain cost to achieve a goal. geographic location.

Gippsland Strategic Directions Statement 23 IWM opportunities: How were they selected?

IWM opportunities that link to and address IWM challenges for the region were identified and developed by the nominated practitioners of participating organisations. The process was an iterative, transparent and inclusive.

This list of opportunities is dynamic and will be reviewed and updated as required to reflect the Forum’s priorities. The long list of projects can be found in the appendix.

The IWM opportunity prioritisation process

1 2 3 4

Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3 Stage 4 Opportunity Opportunity Evaluation of Selection of priority Identification development Opportunities opportunities A series of stakeholder Stakeholders completed A workshop was held The Forum further meetings were held to further work to develop with practitioners to reviewed the opportunities identify IWM and refine the evaluate opportunities to prioritise opportunities opportunities. opportunity concepts. by considering: that were strategic and • contribution to IWM would demonstrate the strategic outcomes value of IWM whilst having multiple benefits • level of urgency for the community and and timeframes the environment. • integration and collaboration • regional contribution • organisational commitment Based on this self and group assessment priority projects and strategies we included in the draft SDS

24 Gippsland Strategic Directions Statement Chapter 3

Impact of IWM opportunities on the Forum’s strategic outcomes

Warragul and Drouin long term water supply security Recycled water for road grading investigation Inegrated service enchancement for Korumburra and Leonthaga Waterway health program Bass Coast Biolinks Stormwater pollution management at Willow Grove Mt Baw Baw water storgae for snow making Water for economic growth in Central Gippsland Wonthaggi stormwater harvesting South Dudley wetland Mara stormwater harvesting Greening sporting reserves in Baw Baw Shire Lake Kernot water supply Repurposing dams at Little Bass, Coalition Creek, Ness Gully and Bellview Creek Council IWM plans

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Total impact score

Safe, secure and aordable supplies that are ﬁt for purpose Healthy and valued agricultural, rural and urban landscapes

Eective and aordable wastewater systems Community values reﬂected in place-based planning

Understand and manage ﬂood regimes to sustain natural Recognise and progress opportunities to enhance jobs, systems while minimising adverse impacts economic beneﬁt and innovation HealthyOverall and valued impact waterways, of portfolio wetlands, lakes, of opportunities on strategic outcomes coastal environments and groundwater systems

Safe, secure and affordable supplies that are fit for purpose 1 0.9

Recognise and progress 0.8 opportunities to enhance 0.7 Effective and affordable jobs, economic benefit 0.6 wastewater systems and innovation 0.5 0.4 0.3 0.2 0.1 0 Understand and manage Community values reflected flood regimes to sustain in place-based planning natural systems while minimising adverse impacts

Healthy and valued Healthy and valued waterways, agricultural, rural and wetlands, lakes, coastal environments urban landscapes and groundwater systems

Gippsland Strategic Directions Statement 25 IWM project & strategy opportunities – overview

IWM opportunity Strategic outcomes Location Scale Lead agency for collaborative opportunity Status Timing

Council IWM plans Central and south Gippsland Inter-forum Bass Coast Shire Council, Baw Baw Shire Council, 2 years Latrobe City Council, South Gippsland Shire Council,

Wellington Shire Council

Repurposing dams at Little Bass, South Gippsland Sub- South Gippsland Water 2-5 years Coalition Creek, Ness Gully and catchment

Bellview Creek

Kernot Lake water supply Morwell Lot scale Latrobe City Council 2 years

Greening sporting reserves in Warragul, Drouin, Yarragon, Sub- Baw Baw Shire Council 1-2 years Baw Baw Shire Trafalgar catchment

Maffra stormwater harvesting Maffra Town/City Wellington Shire Council 2 years

South Dudley wetland South Dudley Lot scale Bass Coast Shire Council 6-9 Months (once funds are secured)

Wonthaggi stormwater harvesting Wonthaggi Recreation Lot scale Bass Coast Shire 9-12 months (once Reserve funds are secured)

Water for economic growth in Central Gippsland Forum area Gippsland Water 0-2 years Central Gippsland

Mt Baw Baw water storage for Mt Baw Baw Sub- Southern Alpine Resorts Management Board 0-2 years snow making catchment

Stormwater pollution management Willow Grove Lot scale Gippsland Water 1-2 years at Willow Grove

Bass Coast Biolinks Bass Coast Shire Inter-forum Bass Coast Shire 1-5 years

Waterway health program Gippsland Forum area West Gippsland CMA Ongoing

Integrated service enhancement South Gippsland Sub- South Gippsland Water 5 years for Leongatha and nearby towns catchment

Recycled water for road grading South Gippsland Shire Sub- South Gippsland Shire 2-5 years investigation catchment

Warragul and Drouin long term Warragul and Drouin Town/City Gippsland Water 1 -5 years water supply security

The status of each IWM opportunity included in the Priority Portfolio reflects the phase of work to be undertaken in this time period.

Shade scale Strategic outcomes

Safe, secure and affordable supplies that Healthy and valued waterways, Community values reflected in are fit for purpose wetlands, lakes, coastal environments place-based planning and groundwater systems Effective and affordable wastewater systems

Understand and manage flood regimes to sustain Healthy and valued agricultural, Recognise and progress opportunities No Impact Impact natural systems while minimising adverse impacts rural and urban landscapes to enhance jobs, economic benefit and innovation

26 Gippsland Strategic Directions Statement Chapter 3

A summarised list of priority IWM Partners of the Forum are committing opportunities is shown in the table their best endeavours to ensure below, with more detail in the priority projects and strategies are following section. Please note that progressed in line with the shared this list is dynamic and will continue vision and strategic outcomes of to be updated to reflect the current the Gippsland IWM Forum. Gippsland IWM Forum’s priorities and opportunities.