GLENELG HOPKINS CMA ANNUAL REPORT
2017-2018 This Report: • covers the period from 1 July 2017 to 30 June 2018 • is the 20th Annual Report for Glenelg Hopkins CMA • is prepared for the Minister for Water, Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change, Parliament of Victoria and the community • is a public document freely available on our website, easily accessed, easily understood and relevant to readers • is prepared in accordance with government and legislative requirements. This includes the requirement under the Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994 for Glenelg Hopkins CMA to submit “…a report on the condition and management of land and water resources in its region and the carrying out of its functions” • provides an accurate record of the CMA’s performance and finances against its core business strategy, the Corporate Plan, which can be accessed online at www.ghcma.vic.gov.au • contains the Catchment Condition and Management Report 2017-18 • acknowledges the support of our community.
© State of Victoria, Glenelg Hopkins CMA 2018. This publication is copyright. No part may be reproduced by any process except in accordance with the provisions of the Copyright Act 1968.
COVER: "Glenelg River". Image courtesy of Ockert Le Roux
2 CONTENTS
YEAR IN REVIEW 4 GOVERNANCE AND Report from the Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer 4 ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE 58 Highlights 6 Governing Board 59 Our Vision 8 Audit and Risk Committee 61 Mission 8 Board Committees 62 Values 8 Long Term Accommodation Working Group 62 Manner of Establishment and Ministers 9 Organisational Chart 63 Nature and Range of Services Provided 9 OUR PEOPLE, OUR BUSINESS 64 Objectives, Functions, Powers and Duties 9 Reporting requirements 64 Operational and Budgetary Objectives 10 Workforce Data 65 Public Sector values and employment principles 65 OUR REGION 11 Workforce Inclusion Policy 66 CATCHMENT CONDITION AND Occupational Health and Safety 66 MANAGEMENT REPORT 2017-18 12 Executive Officer Data 67 1.0 Overview 12 Other Disclosures 67 2.0 Implementing the Regional Catchment Strategy 12 Local Jobs First – Victorian Industry Participation Policy 67 3.0 Condition Assessment and Management Report 16 Government Advertising Expenditure 67 4.0 Regional Actions and Achievements Reporting 48 Consultancy Expenditure 67 CONNECTING COMMUNITIES ICT Expenditure 67 WITH ENVIRONMENT 54 Major Contracts 67 Glenelg Hopkins Advisory Group 54 Freedom of Information 68 Glenelg Hopkins Environrmental Water Advisory Group 55 Compliance with Building Act 1993 68 Glenelg Hopkins Community Advisory Group 55 Competitive Neutrality Policy 68 Local Government relations 55 Protected Disclosure Act 2012 68 Media 55 Additional Information Available on Request 69 Email, print and web newsletters 55 Office Based Environmental Impacts 70 Financial Management Compliance Attestation 71 PERFORMANCE REPORTING (FINANCE) 56 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 72 Five Year Summary – Financial Performance at a Glance 56 Current Financial Review 56 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 80 Significant Changes in Financial Position 56 Significant Changes or Factors Affecting Performance 56 DISCLOSURE INDEX 108 Capital Projects 56 GLOSSARY 110 Subsequent Events 56 Disclosure of Grants and Transfer Payments 56 ENDNOTES 111
3 YEAR IN REVIEW
REPORT FROM THE CHAIRPERSON AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
On behalf of the Board of This agreement builds on the extensive The CMA also supported the Directors, management and staff, partnership arrangements already in place development of the Draft Victorian Rural through the Community Advisory Group, Drainage Strategy, which is due to be we are pleased to present the Environmental Water Advisory Group and finalised in late 2018. 20th Annual Report of the other MOUs and forums. The Ballarat C178 Planning Scheme Glenelg Hopkins Catchment One of the most exciting announcements Amendment was gazetted in July 2017 Management Authority. for the Glenelg Hopkins CMA region after considerable collaboration between this year was the listing of the Glenelg Ballarat City Council and the CMA. The This year we saw the departure of Kevin Estuary and Discovery Bay Ramsar Harrow Flood Investigation was finalised Wood and the arrival of Adam Bester as Site. With community support, the CMA in July 2017, in partnership with West CEO. We believe that Adam will be able finalised the required documentation in Wimmera Shire Council. to continue and grow our community of partnership with Parks Victoria and the partners, stakeholders and landholders The first phase of the National Landcare Department of Environment, Water, to deliver good NRM outcomes in the Program concluded in June 2018. Our Land and Planning. This documentation region. staff have worked with community and was forwarded through the Minister industry to achieve significant on-ground The CMAs income for 2017-18 was for Water Hon. Lisa Neville to the outcomes, developing strong networks $11.7 million which was comprised of Commonwealth Minister for Environment and relationships that stand our CMA in investment primarily from the Victorian Hon. Josh Frydenberg for review and good stead for the second round of the Government and Australian Government. endorsement. Receiving the endorsement National Landcare Program. With the This income is higher than 2016-17, in April 2018, the Glenelg Estuary and successful submission announcements largely due to investment for flood Discovery Bay site is now the 66th expected from the Australian Government recovery activities. Wetland of International Importance early in the 2018-19 financial year, the Over the 2017-18 financial year the under the internationally recognised National Landcare Program is anticipated CMA has used this investment to largely: Ramsar Convention. to provide funding for additional Engage with the community in natural The 2018 south west fires were environmental and sustainable agriculture resource management; Protect and devastating to many communities across projects across the region. improve the environmental condition the Glenelg Hopkins region. Four fires Our CMA has worked very hard with of the region’s waterways, land and resulted in over 15,000 hectares, our Indigenous partners to promote and biodiversity; Provide good governance 26 homes and 63 sheds being burnt. recognise indigenous culture and land and leadership. The number of The south west Victorian community management practices in the region. participants that the CMA engaged with rallied together to support the farming The CMA developed an was reported at 5,285 in 2017-18. Aboriginal and extended effected community. to be used as Over 320 ha of land has been Partnership Framework The Glenelg Hopkins CMA Works Crew a guiding strategy for how we partner revegetated or maintained, 119 km were deployed immediately after the fires and support Traditional Owners and of fences installed, 33,764 ha of pest to help with stock containment fencing Aboriginal communities within our animals controlled, 5,635 ha of weeds and clean up. Further recovery work will catchment over the next decade controlled and 19,434 ha of land that has be undertaken on effected properties (2017-27). The purpose of the Aboriginal improved agricultural practices. The CMA in 2018-19. Partnership Framework is to support the also provided 312 approvals and referrals As a result of floods in 2016, Glenelg full, effective and equitable participation as part of its statutory responsibilities. Hopkins CMA was funded through the of Traditional Owners and Aboriginal During 2017-18 Glenelg Hopkins CMA Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery communities in natural resource coordinated a regional wide approach Arrangements to provide assistance to management (NRM) design and delivery. to catchment partnerships. After those affected by widespread flooding. Examples of these partnerships in negotiations and discussions with agency In 2017-18, 76 flood recovery sites were 2017-18 include the Budj Bim stakeholders, the Glenelg Hopkins listed for rehabilitation with an estimated Connections Project, Junior Ranger Catchment Partnership Agreement project restoration cost of $7.7 million. Program, Platypus eDNA monitoring and was signed in May 2018, resulting in The CMA continued to work with local Towards Cultural Flows – Glenelg River 13 agency signatories and 17 non- government during the year to improve Aboriginal Water Values. signatories supporting the Agreement. the quality of flood information available The CMA continues its strategic focus This Agreement identifies the principles, to the community with the completion of on developing stronger links with expectations and roles of NRM the landholders, agencies and industry groups agencies in working together to identify Glenelg Hopkins Regional Floodplain . In addition, the to promote sustainable agricultural regional priorities that need cross- Management Strategy flood investigations commenced for practices. The Glenelg Hopkins region is organisational collaboration. Coleraine and Cudgee in partnership one of Australia’s major agricultural areas. with the Southern Grampians and Moyne Shire Councils. 4 YEAR IN REVIEW
In 2016-17, producing agricultural In the Hopkins Basin, the Glenelg Hopkins CMA is committed to commodities with a gross value of Mt Emu Creek Waterway Action building on foundational work to provide $2,184 million, Glenelg Hopkins was the Plan has successfully fenced 20 km of a workplace and work practices that both 4th highest producer of Australia’s 56 waterway, planted 13,000 trees and embrace and reflect the diversity of our NRM regions and the largest of Victoria’s protected 123 ha of remnant vegetation. community and support inclusion and 10 NRM regions. Glenelg Hopkins CMA Further progress has also been made participation by everyone through works hard to engage and support the on rehabilitating urban waterways in our Plan. Hamilton, Macarthur and Warrnambool. farming community in our region. In 2017- The Long Term Accommodation The Merri River Restoration Project 18 we partnered with Agriculture Victoria, Working Group have approved the new has made significant improvements Southern Farming Systems, Grassland accommodation arrangements for the to the Merri River removing willows, Society of Southern Australia, WestVic Warrnambool Office and we are pleased planting native trees and installing fish Dairy, Victorian No-Till Association and to have signed an agreement with habitat to increase fish populations. The other agencies to provide best practice Deakin University to shift our Lava Street establishment of the Merri Alliance has and advice across a multitude of areas. Office to the Warrnambool Campus enabled agencies and community groups In one collaboration with the Grasslands later in 2018. Society of Southern Australia we hosted to come together with a common vision There were significant changes in the Converting Blue Gums to Pastures and plan for improving the environmental, cultural and recreational values of the October 2017 when Mike Wagg, Day to increase knowledge of land Merri River. Karen Wales and Ian Hastings left our conversion practices with over 200 Board. Incoming Directors Chris Giles community people attending. Glenelg Hopkins CMA also partnered with Nature Glenelg Trust and Hamilton and Phil Saunders have embraced The CMA and the Grasslands Society of Field Naturalist Club to undertake a the responsibility with excellent skills Southern Australia established Pasture significant step in the protection of to complement the continuing Board Tech, which is a group of 15 farmers Walker Swamp. Through support from Directors – Michelle Casanova, Damein to road test new technologies to make the Our Catchments Our Communities Bell, Georgina Gubbins, John Sherwood informed decisions for sustainable farm Program, Nature Glenelg Trust purchased and Debbie Shea. Ms Kate Calvert was management. Over the last twelve 500 acres of the iconic floodplain near appointed to the Board in October 2017, months the group have been road testing Dunkeld. The aim over the coming years however was on leave until June 2018 ‘Pastures From Space’ and the use of is to restore this important wetland to when she resigned due to personal precision agriculture and variable fertilizer its former glory with support from the reasons. Our Board has worked together application rates on pastures. community and agencies. over the year reviewing and assessing our The CMA plays an essential role in Environmental water delivered to the strategic directions and maintaining close supporting Landcare, particularly through Glenelg River from Rocklands Reservoir oversight of our compliance, culture and the Victorian Landcare Grants. Key totalled 10,207 ML in 2017-18. business performance. achievements with this program included Ecological monitoring undertaken during In accordance with the Financial 23 km of fencing, 93 ha of revegetation environmental watering has continued Management Act 1994 we are pleased and 47 ha of weed control. to demonstrate a positive response in to present the Report of Operations for Glenelg Hopkins CMA working with Parks the distribution and recruitment of a Glenelg Hopkins CMA for the Year ended Victoria and Conservation Volunteers range of fish species. Record numbers 30 June 2018. joined together to treat pine wildlings in of young Tupong were recorded moving the south west of Victoria as part of the upstream from the estuary to the Pine Wilding Control Project, to protect freshwater reaches of the Glenelg River the habitat of the endangered South- in fish surveys undertaken during an eastern Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo. With environmental water release in summer less than 1,000 of these iconic birds left 2018. This year Glenelg Hopkins CMA Antony Ford such work is important for the future partnered with GWMWater to coordinate Chairperson survival of this species. a trial water release from Moora Moora Reservoir into the Upper Glenelg River. Glenelg Hopkins CMA Significant progress has been made This was the first time water for the 30 June 2018 towards implementing the Glenelg environment has been released from Hopkins Waterway Strategy. Major Moora Moora Reservoir and helps to build projects implemented in 2017-18 included an operational understanding of how the Budj Bim Connections Project, water can be delivered into this reach. Glenelg River Environmental Watering Glenelg Hopkins CMA has also Program, Mt Emu Creek Restoration implemented its first Diversity and Project, Grange Burn Restoration Project, Inclusion Plan. Guidelines developed Adam Bester Merri River Restoration Project and by VicCatchments set the minimum Chief Executive Officer various wetland restoration works. standards for all CMAs to address Glenelg Hopkins CMA Stage 2 of the Wannon Waterway gender equity, diversity and inclusion 30 June 2018 Action Plan was implemented this year in their workforce, and form the basis with waterway fencing and revegetation for CMAs to manage their performance undertaken to stabilise waterways. in improving diversity and inclusion.
5 YEAR IN REVIEW
HIGHLIGHTS
The Glenelg Hopkins Regional In partnership with Gunditj Mirring A partnership between Nature Glenelg Floodplain Management Strategy was Traditional Owner Aboriginal Corporation Trust (NGT), Glenelg Hopkins CMA and completed and approved by the Board in and Baimbridge College Hamilton the the Hamilton Field Naturalist Club has December 2017. The Strategy is the first fourth and final year of the Junior enabled NGT to purchase the 500 acre updated floodplain management strategy Ranger Program was delivered as part Walker Swamp, situated in the Wannon for the region in 18 years. of the Improved NRM project. River floodplain near Dunkeld. A total of 120 students participated in This purchase was supported by the the program this year, which included Our Catchments Our Communities project. The CMA is working in Partnership with classroom studies on Gunditjmara Southern Grampians Shire Council and Country, a stone knapping workshop, Moyne Shire Council on the Coleraine Traditional Aboriginal Games workshop As part of the Victorian Government and Cudgee Flood Investigations and a Budj Bim landscapes tour. Over funded Our Catchments Our respectively. These investigations will the four years, nearly 500 students have Communities, a Landholder Incentives produce high quality flood mapping, been involved in the program which Program across the Greater Grampians along with planning and emergency has raised awareness and improved region has been established for the response outputs. Community understanding of Indigenous culture and improvement of wetlands on private consultations have been well attended land management practices in the region. land. Eight landholders are currently for both projects and the community participating in the program with provided valuable intelligence on flood 374.2 ha of wetlands benefiting from impacts and provided feedback on The Integrated Pest Management (IPM) improved management practices. the project outputs. Both projects are project conducted by the Upper Hopkins scheduled for completion in December Land Management Group is a real 2018. success story and a significant highlight In 2017 Glenelg Hopkins CMA for the Regional Landcare Facilitator implemented its first Diversity and program. Inclusion Plan. Guidelines developed Glenelg Hopkins CMA has developed by Vic Catchments set the minimum an Aboriginal Partnership Framework Over a four-year period, the IPM project standards for all CMAs to address which will be used by the CMA as a developed four field demonstration sites, gender equity, diversity and inclusion in guiding strategy for how we partner held 10 workshops catering for farmers their workforce, and form the basis for with and support Traditional Owners and professional industry organisations, CMAs to manage their performance in and Aboriginal communities within our and established the production of a improving diversity and inclusion. catchment over the next decade quarterly IPM newsletter which was Glenelg Hopkins CMA is committed (2017-2027). The purpose of the distributed to a 300-strong network. to building on foundational work to Aboriginal Partnership Framework is to The project also established a “Bug provide a workplace and work practices support the full, effective and equitable Hotline” to support farmers with insect that both embrace and reflect the participation of Traditional Owners identification. diversity of our community and support and Aboriginal communities in natural inclusion and participation by everyone resource management (NRM) design Through the Australian Government through our Plan. and delivery. funded Sustainable Agriculture project, a partnership with the Grasslands Society Budj Bim Connections project The Towards Cultural Flows – Glenelg of Southern Australia has resulted in supports the increased knowledge River Aboriginal Water Values Scoping more than 200 farmers attending the sharing between landholders and the Project was one of the three finalists 'Converting Blue Gums to Pastures Day' Gunditjmara Traditional Owners and in the River Basin Management Society at Cavendish in July 2017, as well as the improves the condition and connection Awards in 2017, for the category initiation of a pilot Pasture Tech project of waterways across this culturally Involving Community in Waterway utilising smart farm digital and spatial significant landscape. This project is one Management. technologies. This project has supported 15 young farmers from 11 farm entities of the ten flagship waterway projects to adopt spatial and digital technology to across Victoria and a key component improve monitoring of pastures and soil. of Water for Victoria.
6 YEAR IN REVIEW
Glenelg Estuary and Discovery Bay The Glenelg River Crossing project will The National Landcare Program received Ramsar listing in April 2018. investigate how best to negate the last Coastal Connections is funded through The Glenelg Estuary and Discovery Bay major fish barrier on the Glenelg River. the Australian Government’s National site meets five of the required criteria This will benefit both migratory and Landcare Program. In 2017-18, the for listing on the Convention on non-migratory fish populations in the Coastal Connections project worked Wetlands of International Importance Glenelg River by ensuring upstream and with community groups and private land and received endorsement from the downstream migration of fish species managers to protect and restore coastal, Victorian Minister for Water the Hon. under low flow conditions. estuarine and wetland habitat. This Lisa Neville and the Commonwealth included sharing knowledge and skills, Work undertaken in 2017-18 has Minister for Environment the Hon. protecting and restoring habitats, and included landholder engagement and the Josh Frydenberg to become the 66th undertaking conservation management development of a concept and detailed Australian site listed ensuring greater of these valuable coastal areas. design for a fishway structure to inform protection of the unique area. future works. Glenelg Hopkins CMA has been working The Wetland Defence Program, funded in partnership with the Wimmera CMA The Riparian Crowdfunding Project through the Victorian Water for Victoria, to deliver a Habitat Tender project. was an innovative trial for the Victorian provided information and funding The project aims to improve the CMA, launching our first crowdfunding opportunities to help improve wetlands protection of native vegetation on campaign aptly named ‘Funds for Fish’. and protect the tens of thousands of private land by providing landholders Due to the generous support from wetlands, swamps, bogs and lakes in with funding to undertake conservation the local community and business the the western Victoria region. actions. The project is focused on CMA was successful in exceeding its improving the connections between fundraising target of $12,000 for the forest in southwest Victoria and the Big Fish Hotel Project in Warrnambool. Mount Emu Creek Protection project Mallee Country which is critical habitat provided landholders in the upper Mount During 2017-18 the CMA commenced for species such as the Red-tailed Black- Emu Creek and Trawalla Creek areas the implementation of the Big Fish Cockatoo and the Southern Brown the opportunity to develop on-ground Hotel Project. The goal was to enhance Bandicoot. Landholders who participate activities to protect and enhance the recreational fishing in the Merri River, in the project agree to protect areas of health of these creeks through funding Warrnambool. This was undertaken native vegetation for ten years. In total and protection of native vegetation. through the introduction of large woody Glenelg Hopkins CMA undertook field debris (logs/branches), fish hotels and assessments on 21 properties. large rocks. This project culminated with The project was funded by the Victorian The Natural Disaster Relief and the public being invited along to watch Governments Biodiversity Strategy. Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA) some of the habitat get placed in the is aimed at providing assistance to Merri River. those affected by widespread flooding experienced across the region in 2016. There are currently 76 flood recovery sites listed for rehabilitation with an estimated project cost of $7.7 million.
7 YEAR IN REVIEW
OUR VISION MISSION VALUES Achieving a healthy and sustainable Improving relationships between Glenelg Hopkins CMA operates under relationship between the natural the environment and the community four strategic objectives developed by environment and the community's use to achieve wise use of our regional the Board. The objectives, associated of land and water resources. natural resources in partnership with sub-objectives and the Regional the government. Catchment Strategy provide guidance for the organisation in establishing our business directions and activities.
8 YEAR IN REVIEW
Productive partnerships for MANNER OF OBJECTIVES, FUNCTIONS, a healthy catchment ESTABLISHMENT POWERS AND DUTIES • Foster active partnerships to AND MINISTERS The Objectives, Functions, Powers and strengthen the region’s capacity Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Duties of the Glenelg Hopkins CMA in natural resource and waterway Management Authority is established are largely contained within the management under the Catchment and Land Protection following Acts: • Strengthen structures and processes Act 1994. The responsible Ministers • Catchment and Land Protection for community engagement in for the period from 1 July 2017 to Act 1994; regional strategies and plans 30 June 2018 were the Hon. Lisa Neville • Water Act 1989; MP, Minister for Water and the Hon. • Promote adaptation and knowledge • Financial Management Act 1994; Lily D’Ambrosio MP, Minister for Energy, sharing to build stakeholder capacity Environment and Climate Change. • Audit Act 1994; and resilience • Freedom of Information Act 1982;
Integrated and sustainable NATURE AND RANGE • Information Privacy Act 2000; and catchment management OF SERVICES PROVIDED • Public Administration Act 2004. The functions, powers and duties of • Facilitate and coordinate the Glenelg Hopkins CMA is responsible, Glenelg Hopkins CMA are identified management of catchments in an with others, for natural resource in the Statement of Obligations under integrated and sustainable manner management within the region. It takes section 19E(1) (a) of the Catchment & an integrated, whole-of-catchment • Target investment to enhance Land Protection Act 1994 (CaLP Act). approach by combining strategic planning biodiversity, sustainable production with co-ordination for management of and community resilience These Obligations: natural resources. • Advise on natural asset condition • provide clarity on the way CMA Glenelg Hopkins CMA is an important link trends to inform resource allocation activities should be undertaken and between community and government, and management actions the level these activities should be providing advice to the Australian and performed. It specifies the obligations State Governments on environmental Effective waterway and as to the performance of broad conditions, priorities and direction within legislative functions and policy floodplain management the Glenelg Hopkins region. responsibilities; • Manage environmental water • specify which obligations will be effectively funded out of annual Corporate • Provide efficient business process for Allocations and Statutory Land statutory functions Allocations and which obligations are to be funded by contracts or • Provide regional leadership in agreements between the Department floodplain management of Sustainability & Environment and the CMA; and A respected and accountable organisation • reflect an integrated and sustainable approach to catchment management. • Recruit and sustain a professional, proactive and innovative workforce This Statement should be read in conjunction with the Statements of • Deliver investment programs Obligations for CMAs issued under the effectively and efficiently Water Act 1989, which identify additional • Manage business risk conservatively objectives, functions, powers and duties in waterway management, floodplain • Optimise funding for NRM projects by management and regional drainage minimising corporate overheads conferred under Part 7 and Part 10.
9 YEAR IN REVIEW
OPERATIONAL AND BUDGETARY OBJECTIVES
Performance Area Performance Target Submit annually, a board performance assessment Submitted electronically on 14 September 2017 to report according to any guidelines issued. Hon. Lisa Neville Minister for Water.
A risk management strategy / plan approved by The CMA has a risk management plan that is approved the board and being implemented. by the Board and is being implemented. The Plan is updated annually and was last approved by the Board on 22 June 2018.
Business management 95% of Board policies have been reviewed in the last and governance 100% of the CMA’s policies and procedures three years. 65% of Operational Procedures have been reviewed every three financial years. reviewed in the last three years (40 of 61 – all procedures not reviewed in the last three financial years are considered ‘under review’ and mostly consist of HR and IT-related procedures).
Full compliance with all applicable Standing Fully compliant with all standing directions with the Directions under the Financial Management exception of one, of which are partially compliant, with no Compliance Framework Checklist. material non-compliance.
A Regional Catchment Strategy (RCS) approved The Glenelg Hopkins RCS (2013-2019) was gazetted on by the Minister. 16 May 2013.
A stakeholder and community engagement The Glenelg Hopkins Partnership & Engagement Strategy framework / plan approved by the Board. is scheduled for updating in 2018-19.
The Glenelg Hopkins Regional Landcare Support Strategy A Regional Landcare support plan approved by Regional planning and was approved by the Board on 14 December 2012 and is the Board. coordination being implemented.
A Regional Waterways Strategy approved by The Glenelg Hopkins Waterway Strategy 2014-22 was the Minister. approved by the Minister August 2014.
The Glenelg Hopkins Regional Floodplain Management A Regional Floodplain Strategy approved by Strategy was approved by the Board in December 2017 the Board. and was accepted by DELWP on April, 2018.
Progress with implementation of the RCS (and its The Glenelg Hopkins CMA Board reviewed the major sub-strategies) is reviewed by the Board implementation of the RCS and major sub-strategies at annually. its August 2017 Board Meeting.
Projects / activities to implement the RCS are Projects to implement the RCS were delivered and reported delivered and reported according to associated according to associated funding agreements. funding agreements. Regional delivery The Glenelg Hopkins Waterway Strategy is reviewed annually by the board. 19 actions have been completed, Projects / activities to implement the regional 35 are in progress and 17 are yet to commence. All actions waterways strategy and the regional floodplain are to be completed over the life of the Strategy. management strategy delivered and reported according to associated funding agreements. The Regional Floodplain Management Strategy has been completed. 7 of 80 actions have been completed, 10 actions in progress and 63 not started.
92% of Flood Advice were responded to within the prescribed period. 95% of Flood Referrals were responded to within the prescribed period. 90% of statutory requirements (permits, referrals, Statutory functions under advice and licences) associated with waterway and 96% of Works on Waterways Licences were issued within Part 10 of the Water Act floodplain management are responded to within the prescribed period. the prescribed period. 91% of Works on Waterways Advice were issued within the prescribed period. 100% of Works on Waterways Referrals were responded to within the prescribed period.
90% of statutory requirements (permits, referrals, Statutory functions under advice and licences) associated irrigation 100% of irrigation management responses were within Part 11 of the Water Act management are responded to within the the prescribed response period. prescribed period.
10 OUR REGION
The Glenelg Hopkins region lies The Glenelg Hopkins region has a rich • Glenelg Estuary and Discovery Bay south of the Great Dividing Range resource base that supports diverse and listed under the Ramsar Convention growing industries. The main economic on Wetlands in Victoria’s south west. drivers are agriculture, fisheries, retail, • Three International Bird Areas (IBA) The region is renowned for its manufacturing, health and community between Port Fairy and Warrnambool, agricultural production, scenic beauty, services, education and construction, Yambuk and the Discovery Bay dramatic coastline and rich biodiversity. while agriculture, forestry and fishing are Coastal Park the major employers. It covers 26,910 sq km, extending • Significant areas of two Australian from Ballarat in the east to the South The region is one of Australia’s major Government ‘biodiversity hotspots’ Australian border in the west, and from agricultural areas. In 2016-17, producing the southern coast of Victoria to the agricultural commodities with a gross • 13 endangered Ecological Vegetation townships of Harrow and Ararat in value of $2,184 million, Glenelg Communities the north. Hopkins was the 4th highest producer • The iconic Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo, of Australia’s 56 NRM regions and the There are four main basins that occur Orange-bellied Parrot and endemic largest of Victoria’s 10 NRM regions. within the region: Glenelg, Hopkins, Glenelg Spiny Cray, and 173 of Portland Coast and Millicent Coast. South western Victoria has a range of Victoria’s threatened species. The boundaries of the region include natural assets in the form of biodiversity, Water is abundant across the southern marine and coastal waters out to the rivers, wetlands, soils, forests and coast. part of the region and reliable in state limit of three nautical miles. These natural resources support much of the rest. Numerous wetlands The region is characterised by flat a unique quality of life. comprising 44 per cent of Victoria’s total volcanic plains in the south, while the The Glenelg Hopkins region contains are spread throughout the region. The Grampians, Dundas Tablelands, and a number of natural features that are of catchment contains substantial reserves Central Highlands are dominant in national and international significance, of groundwater with varying salinities. the north. including: Three regional groundwater systems underlie the region – the Otway, Murray • Budj Bim National Heritage Catchment facts and Highland – with other shallow local Landscape (Mt Eccles / Lake Condah aquifers present. The region attracts large numbers / Tyrendarra Area) of visitors to its world-class tourist The coastal areas have no parallel. • The Grampians National Park attractions and boasts a variety of Towering cliffs, extensive dune systems, educational and research institutions. • Kanawinka Geopark (UNESCO listed), broad vegetation remnants and unique A deepwater port is located in Portland encompassing sites of geologic marine habitats are home to diverse and and the region is strategically located significance such as Wannon Falls, rich ecosystems. Offshore areas are rich with road access to Melbourne and Tower Hill, Mt Noorat and Princess in marine life, with the continental shelf Adelaide. Margaret Rose Caves close to the shore and bringing in whales and large schools of bluefin tuna. The region supports a permanent • Glenelg River – the lower section of population of 130,000 with year-round the Glenelg River is heritage-listed tourism adding significantly to this due to its environmental significance number. Major cities and towns include • Western District Ramsar lakes – one Warrnambool, Hamilton, Portland, part lake in the region is recognised as of Ballarat, Ararat, Casterton, Port Fairy internationally important under the and Beaufort. More than 35,000 of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands region’s residents reside in Warrnambool, and strong population growth is occurring in the city.
Area of the Region 26,910 sq km
Area of the Glenelg Basin 12,370 sq km
Area of the Hopkins Basin 9,897 sq km
Area of the Millicent Coast Basin 431 sq km
Area of the Portland Coast Basin 3,965 sq km
Length of Coastline 220 km
11 CATCHMENT CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT REPORT 2017-18
1.0 OVERVIEW 2.0 IMPLEMENTING THE REGIONAL CATCHMENT STRATEGY
This Condition and Management Report The Glenelg Hopkins Regional A number of sub-strategies have for 2017-18 fulfils Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Strategy (2013-2019) is the been developed to support RCS CMA’s responsibilities under Section primary integrated strategic planning implementation including the Glenelg 19B of the Catchment and Land mechanism for the management of land, Hopkins Waterway Strategy (2014-22), Protection Act 1994 to submit to the water and biodiversity resources within Soil Health Strategy (2014-19), and Minister and Victorian Catchment the Glenelg Hopkins region, and is an Regional Landcare Support Strategy Management Council: important building block in improving the (2012-2018). These sub-strategies play condition of these resources over time. an important role in shaping regional “A report on the condition and It provides an integrated framework for works programs and supporting the management of land and water investing in and prioritising on-ground implementation of RCS actions. resources in its region and the carrying works and NRM projects within the Overall, good progress continues to be out of its functions”. region, and was developed using an made on the implementation of the asset-based approach. RCS and six-year management actions. The report provides a summary Regional Catchment Strategy (RCS) As of 30 June 2018, 25 per cent of RCS of regional management activities objectives (20-year time frame) and actions were assessed as completed, undertaken during the reporting year management measures (six-year time 67 per cent in progress (or ongoing), by the CMA, regional partners and frame) have been set at a regional 3 per cent not started, and 5 per cent local communities to improve the level, for nine asset classes: community abandoned. The number of completed condition of the region’s land, water participation, rivers and floodplains, RCS actions has increased by 9 per cent and biodiversity resources. A snapshot wetlands, estuaries, coasts, marine, since 2016-17, which has also affected of outputs delivered by Glenelg Hopkins terrestrial habitat, species populations the percentage of actions recorded as in CMA in 2017-18 in partnership with and communities, and soil/land. progress (reduced by 9 per cent). the community is also presented. Management measures (actions) have Table 1 presents the key programs and The report provides a statement on been set for achievement within the life projects that are contributing to the condition at a catchment level, and a of the RCS. achievement of RCS objectives and summary of issues and events that may actions in 2017-18. impact on the longer-term condition of land and water resources in the region. Condition information is presented in accordance with the headline indicator themes of community, waterways, biodiversity, land and coasts, as identified in the Framework for Catchment Condition and Management Reporting in Victoria.i
12 OUR REGION – CATCHMENT CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT REPORT 2017-18
Table 1: Key programs and projects contributing to achievement of RCS objectives and actions in 2017-18
No. of 2017-18 RCS objective actions Key programs/projects contributing to achievement of RCS objectives and actions2 implemented1 Objectives that relate to all or multiple asset themes Objective 1.1: Protect and 2 of 2 • VWPIF Works Programs (Glenelg, Hopkins, Coastal and Regional) improve the region’s waterways, • VWPIF Environmental Water Program wetlands and estuaries • Environmental Water: Technical Investigations, Works and Measures Program • VWPIF Our Catchments Our Communities • VWPIF Regional Riparian Action Plan (RRAP) – Landcare Grants • Landcare (Victorian Landcare Grants and Regional Landcare Coordination) • NLP Coastal Connections
Objective 1.2: Reduce the 1 of 3 • BOGA Wilken Pine Wildling Control projects impact of pest plants and • BOGA Glenelg Estuary and Discovery Bay Weed Control animals on the region’s natural resources and agricultural • BOGA Lower Glenelg-Discovery Bay Weed Management industries • NLP Projects (Threatened Species and Communities Program, Coastal Connections, Regional Landcare Facilitator) • VWPIF Works Programs (Glenelg, Hopkins, Coastal and Regional)
Objective 1.3: Maximise 4 of 4 • VWPIF Our Catchments Our Communities biodiversity benefits of sequestering carbon in the landscape and minimise adverse effects
Objective 1.4: Protect and 2 of 2 • Partner led manage the visual character of the landscape
Community participation Objective 2.1: Maintain and 6 of 6 • VWPIF Works Programs (Glenelg, Hopkins, Coastal and Regional) enhance community capacity, • VWPIF Regional Riparian Action Plan (RRAP) - Landcare Grants awareness and involvement in natural resource management • VWPIF Our Catchments Our Communities with the region • VWPIF Environmental Water Community Engagement Project • VWPIF Regional Floodplain Management Strategy Implementation • Landcare (Victorian Landcare Grants and Regional Landcare Coordination) • NLP Projects (Sustainable Agriculture, Regional Landcare Facilitator, Threatened Species and Communities Program, Coastal Connections, Indigenous Partnerships for NRM)
Objective 2.2: Facilitate a 3 of 3 • VWPIF Works Programs (Glenelg, Hopkins, Coastal and Regional) collaborative approach to NRM • VWPIF RRAP - Landcare Grants • VWPIF Our Catchments Our Communities • VWPIF Environmental Water Program • Landcare (Victorian Landcare Grants and Regional Landcare Coordination) • NLP Projects (Sustainable Agriculture, Regional Landcare Facilitator, Threatened Species and Communities Program, Coastal Connections, Indigenous Partnerships for NRM)
Objective 2.3: Support land 1 of 1 • NLP Projects (Sustainable Agriculture Project, Regional Landcare Facilitator, managers in meeting their Indigenous Partnerships for NRM) responsibilities as active stewards of the Catchment’s land, water and biodiversity
Objective 2.4: Support farmers 2 of 2 • VWPIF RRAP Landcare Grants to incorporate environmental • Landcare (Victorian Landcare Grants and Regional Landcare Coordination) outcomes into their farm systems • NLP Projects (Sustainable Agriculture, Regional Landcare Facilitator, Threatened Species and Communities Program, Coastal Connections, Indigenous Partnerships for NRM)
13 OUR REGION – CATCHMENT CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT REPORT 2017-18
No. of 2017-18 RCS objective actions Key programs/projects contributing to achievement of RCS objectives and actions2 implemented1 Rivers and Floodplains Objective 3.1: Waterways 1 of 1 • VWPIF Works Programs (Glenelg and Regional) classified as good or excellent • VWPIF Improving Flows in the Upper Glenelg in the Index of Stream Condition (ISC3) will remain as • NLP Coastal Connections such in 2033
Objective 3.2: The condition of 1 of 1 • VWPIF Hopkins Works Program specified waterways currently • VWPIF Environmental Water Program classed as poor to moderate in the Index of Stream Condition (ISC3) is improved by 2033
Objective 3.3: Improve 2 of 2 • VWPIF Works Programs (Glenelg, Hopkins, Coastal and Regional) river health in relation to • VWPIF Our Catchments Our Communities riparian extent, connectivity, hydrological regime and • VWPIF Environmental Water Program water quality • VWPIF Catchment Scale Sediment Monitoring
Objective 3.4: Increase 6 of 6 • VWPIF Statutory Water Functions (Floodplain and Waterway Management) provision of reliable flood • VWPIF Regional Floodplain Management Strategy Implementation information for settlements • Flood investigations
Objective 3.5: Improve river 2 of 2 • VWPIF Statutory Water Functions (Floodplain and Waterway Management) and floodplain management • Flood investigations
Wetlands Objective 4.1: By 2033, 7 of 9 • VWPIF Our Catchments Our Communities improve the condition of • VWPIF Environmental Water Program wetlands, and maintain the diversity of wetland types • NLP Threatened Species and Communities Program (using IWC1 assessment for • VWPIF Ramsar Site Management and Monitoring comparison) • VWPIF Improving Flows in the Budj Bim Landscape • VWPIF Permanent Restoration of Long Swamp • NLP Coastal Connections
Estuaries Objective 5.1: By 2033 improve 6 of 8 • VWPIF Coastal Works Program the condition of estuaries • VWPIF Glenelg River Estuary Flow Requirements across the region as compared with the 2018 IEC assessment • BOGA Glenelg Estuary and Discovery Bay Weed Control • BOGA Lower Glenelg-Discovery Bay Weed Management
Coasts Objective 6.1: By 2033 7 of 9 • NLP Coastal Connections maintain the condition of the • VWPIF Environmental Water Program coast and manage specific threats to improve condition • VWPIF Coastal Works Program where appropriate • BOGA Glenelg Estuary and Discovery Bay Weed Control • BOGA Lower Glenelg-Discovery Bay Weed Management
Marine Objective 7.1: By 2033 4 of 8 • VWPIF Works Programs (Glenelg, Hopkins, Coastal and Regional) maintain the condition of • NLP Coastal Connections the marine environment and manage specific catchment- • Clean Oceans Initiative based threats to improve condition where appropriate
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No. of 2017-18 RCS objective actions Key programs/projects contributing to achievement of RCS objectives and actions2 implemented1 Terrestrial Habitat Objective 8.1: Maintain extent 6 of 10 • VWPIF Works Programs (Glenelg, Hopkins, Coastal and Regional) and improve condition of • Landcare (Victorian Landcare Grants) terrestrial habitat • NLP Projects (Threatened Species and Communities Program, Coastal Connections) • BOGA Projects (Habitat Tender, Wilken Pine Wildling Control, Glenelg Estuary and Discovery Bay Weed Control, Lower Glenelg-Discovery Bay Weed Management)
Objective 8.2: Improve 3 of 4 • NLP Coastal Connections connectivity of habitat for • NLP Protection of Ecological Communities species populations and communities
Objective 8.3: Public land is 1 of 3 • NLP Coastal Connections managed as the core of resilient ecosystems
Threatened Species and Communities Objective 9.1: Improve the 10 of 11 • VWPIF Environmental Water Program health of key populations • NLP Projects (Threatened Species and Communities Program, Coastal Connections) of threatened species and communities • Glenelg Ark, Glenelg Eden and Grampians Ark projects (partner led) • VWPIF Coastal Works Program
Soil and Land Objective 10.1: An 2 of 2 • NLP Sustainable Agriculture Program improvement in soil condition • NLP Regional Landcare Facilitator as measured by key indicators by 2033
Objective 10.2: An increase in 9 of 10 • NLP Projects (Sustainable Agriculture, Regional Landcare Facilitator) the area of soils managed within their capability
Objective 10.3: By 2033 reduce 2 of 2 • NLP Sustainable Agriculture Program the impact of soil based threats, • NLP Regional Landcare Facilitator including salinity and erosion, on waterways and wetlands as measured by improved ISC and IWC scores (turbidity and EC)
Objective 10.4: By 2033 soils 1 of 1 • NLP Sustainable Agriculture Program are managed for protection and • NLP Regional Landcare Facilitator enhancement of the beneficial ecosystem services provided by soils
Note: NLP = National Landcare Program, VWPIF = Victorian Water Program Investment Framework
1. A number of RCS actions are designed to be implemented over the life of the strategy. This column refers to the number of actions that were scheduled to occur in 2016-17, that were assessed as being implemented to the level intended. 2. Initiatives may contribute to one or more RCS objectives / actions. Achievements for programs / projects marked * are discussed elsewhere in this report.
Implementation of the RCS has been supported through a number of funding sources, including the Australian Government’s National Landcare Program (NLP) and the Victorian Government’s Victorian Water Program Investment Framework, the CMA’s two main sources of project funding for 2017-18.
The location of management activities associated with CMA led programs for 2017-18 is shown in Figure 1 (page 16).
15 OUR REGION – CATCHMENT CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT REPORT 2017-18
Figure 1: Location of management activities in the Glenelg Hopkins region for 2017-18
3.0 CONDITION ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT REPORT
This section of the report includes an Glenelg Hopkins CMA strategies and Annual catchment condition assessments assessment of catchment condition initiatives are designed to support are based on available science and expert across the headline indicator themes integrated catchment management. advice as well as evidence gained during of community, waterways, biodiversity, As a result, programs and projects may the reporting period, and are based on land and coasts; and a report on contribute to RCS objectives and actions the criteria detailed in Table 2. A positive progress and actions towards RCS associated with more than one RCS assessment indicates a level of optimism implementation. It includes an overview asset class. In these instances, initiatives about future direction; a concerned or of regional initiatives undertaken towards have been outlined under the headline highly concerned assessment indicates a implementing RCS objectives and actions indicator theme that relates most closely more pessimistic view of the direction of in 2017-18, and a summary of key to the management activities being environmental change. project achievements for 2017-18. undertaken.
16 OUR REGION – CATCHMENT CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT REPORT 2017-18
Table 2: Assessment criteria for annual condition reporting
Assessment Criteria An optimistic future with evidence that events during the year will have a positive impact on the 1. Positive longer term. A largely neutral state, where events during the year may have been significant but are within
2. Neutral
expected variation and will have little impact in the longer term.
A level of concern that significant events during the year may have an adverse impact in the
3. Concerned
longer term. A high level of concern that significant events during the year are likely to have an adverse impact in 4. Highly concerned the longer term.
Details for each catchment indicator theme are presented separately in this report. An overall summary is provided in Table 3.
Table 3: Summary of catchment condition assessment
2016-17 2017-18
Indicator Theme Key Evidence Assessment Assessment
Waterways Concerned Concerned • Reports and incidents of wetland loss during 2017-18, due to cropping of ephemeral wetlands • Extensive fire damage to riparian vegetation on 3 major waterways • Possible long-term impact from fire in two peat wetlands
Biodiversity Neutral Neutral • Wild fires burnt over 14 000 ha of predominantly pasture grasses but also impacted on riparian land and peat wetlands • Positive outcomes observed for some threatened species across the region • Above average rainfall since 2016 benefited many terrestrial and aquatic species, and vegetation communities • Over-browsing by Koalas in the mixed Eucalypt woodlands of the far south
Land Neutral Neutral • Large grass fires at Garvoc, Gazette-Hawkesdale and Terang • No major erosion events reported on farmland • Annual average ground cover rates remained stable
• Significant long-term challenges remain in managing the impact of land use on
waterway health and managing soil health at the farm scale
Coasts Concerned Concerned • With the exception of land protected within parks and reserves, the coastal environment remains under significant pressure from agriculture, and development near urban centres • Coastal areas are experiencing increases in population and tourism activity. Pollution, erosion and loss of coastal habitat are major threats • Coastal settlement infrastructure located in low-lying areas within the region are already experiencing occasional inundation • The distribution and extent of coastal weed infestations is threatening some high value coastal areas
Community Neutral Neutral • Community participation rates in CMA NRM partnership projects have remained relatively steady • Landcare group health scores have remained relatively stable
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3.1 COMMUNITY
Condition Statement The Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owner Each year, groups are invited to complete Aboriginal Corporation also manages a Group Health Survey, which records The community headline indicator theme significant parcels of land of high group perceptions of their current health reports on community participation in environmental, historical and cultural and activity levels. natural resource management (NRM) and value, which form part of the Budj Bim The results of the most recent Group Landcare Group Health results. National Heritage Landscape. Health Survey are shown in Table 5 (page Regional context 19) (ranked from a score of 1 - stalled, Community Benchmark – to 5 - thriving) and Figure 2. The survey The Glenelg Hopkins community Community Participation Rates is completed by regional groups that and landholders play an integral role and Landcare Group Health participate in the Victorian Landcare in the delivery of NRM actions and Survey Results Grants Program. In 2017-18, there were in maintaining and improving the less groups that self-rated as surviving Current levels of community participation condition of the region’s land, water or stalled, compared to 2016-17 and for a range of activities are outlined in and biodiversity resources. There is a 2015-16; with around 48 per cent of Table 4 (page 19). This table also makes strong community and land manager respondents rating their group as strong a comparison to rates of participation commitment to improve natural resource or thriving. The level of groups self-rating recorded for 2016-17 which indicates outcomes across the region. as OK was similar to previous years. that levels of participation across all This is evident with the uptake for measures is slightly lower than 2016-17 In addition to Landcare projects, the Landcare grants, the CMA’s partnership but relatively steady, with the exception CMA supports private landholders projects and participation at community of the ‘working as collaborators in and community groups to deliver forums and field days over the last planning and decision making category’, partnership projects in targeted areas decade. which varies between years, depending of the region. In 2017-18, these Traditional Owner groups and Indigenous on the projects being undertaken. included implementation of the Wannon Waterway Action Plan, the communities play a central role in The Glenelg Hopkins region has 111 Grangeburn Restoration, the Merri River regional land management. For example, Landcare Groups. Of these groups, 59 Restoration, implementation of the Budj Bim National Park is cooperatively were assessed as active and 52 in recess. Mt Emu Creek Waterway Action Plan managed by Parks Victoria and These figures have remained relatively and implementation of the Budj Bim Gunditjmara Traditional Owners through constant over the past three years. The Waterway Action Plan. the Budj Bim Council. region is home to a further 49 Community Based Natural Resource Management groups and five Landcare networks.
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Table 4: Current level of community participation
Participation in Participation in Approximate Hours Activity 2016-17 2017-18* 2017-18
Contributing to on-ground works 179 management 146 management N/A (CMA partnership activities) agreements agreements
Attending skills and training events 714 people 676 people 5,760 (CMA partnership activities)
Taking part in awareness raising activities 3,501 people 3,281 people 19,094 (CMA partnership activities)
Working as collaborators in planning and decision making 1,778 people 1,280 people 9,313 (CMA partnership activities)
Note: *The same person may have attended one or more events.
Table 5: Landcare Group Health Survey Results 2015-16 to 2017-18
2015-16 2016-17 2017-18
Group Health Score 3.26 3.46 3.51
Respondents 42 47 37
Conservation Volunteers Australia (CVA) Figure 2: Landcare Group Health Survey Results 2015-16 to 2017-18 through its South West Victoria office 0 delivered a total of 299 project days and 11,368 volunteer hours across public 30 land during the 2017-18 year. In addition to this, two Green Army programs were 20 delivered, one based at the Hamilton Eastern Barred Bandicoot enclosure and Percentange 10 one along the Warrnambool coast line targeted at improving the condition of 0 Orange Bellied Parrot habitat. A summary hriving Strong Ok Surviving Stalled of CVA projects is provided in Table 6 (page 20). 2015 16 2016 17 2017 18
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Table 6: CVA projects for 2017-18
Total Total Total Project Location Project Partners Key Outcomes Project Volunteers Volunteer Days Days Hours Basalt to Bay Landcare 12,560 Indigenous tubestock planted Farmer Shelter Belts 9 48 384 Network Inc and guarded
Clean up days, and selective weed Fitzroy River Estuary, Glenelg Hopkins CMA control to prevent the establishment 7 37 296 Tyrendarra of spiny rush
Selective weed control in fenced Fitzroy River weed Glenelg Hopkins CMA reserves, further diversification and 12 42 336 control and planting enhancement planting
Selective intervention and control on Glenelg Eden Project DELWP a range of emergent environmental 42 184 1,472 weeds in the region
Implemented a range of land Basalt to Bay Landcare management activities including tree Green Line, Koroit 8 41 328 Network Inc planting, weed control, preparation for control burn
Upgraded 5.5 km of perimeter fence and realigned a small section of fence Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton Eastern Barred to improve fence integrity. Volunteers DELWP, Zoos Victoria, 63 142 568 Bandicoot Enclosure conduct regular patrols of fence Wannon Water perimeter to check integrity and provide maintenance
Mapped, pulled out, lopped or stem Mocambaro State Park Glenelg Hopkins CMA injected over 2,044 pine wildlings 36 224 1,792 across 250 ha reserve
Implemented a range of activities Basalt to Bay landcare Pretty Hill Flora Reserve including weed control and preparation 3 17 136 Network Inc of firebreaks for control burn
Salvana Conservation Located and mapped rabbit warrens Greening Australia 5 15 120 Reserve in preparation for treatment
17,050 indigenous tubestock planted Strathdownie revegetation Glenelg Hopkins CMA and guarded in the Strathdownie 34 242 1,936 district
Tyrendarra Streamside Commencement of environmental Glenelg Hopkins CMA 5 52 416 Reserve restoration of streamside reserve
Maintenance on a range of sites in Revegetation maintenance Glenelg Hopkins CMA the south-west that had been 24 119 952 works 2017-18 previously revegetated
Research Project Provided assistance with setting up Melbourne University 11 92 736 establishment two separate research projects
Mapped, pulled out, lopped or stem Wilkin Flora Reserve Glenelg Hopkins CMA injected over 6,071 pine wildlings 40 166 1,328 across 314 ha reserve
Totals 299 1,421 11,368
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Annual community indicator theme assessment 2017-18
Annual Rating Key Evidence Assessment
Neutral A largely neutral state, where events during the • Community participation rates in CMA NRM partnership projects have year may have been significant but are within remained relatively steady. expected variation and will have little impact in • Landcare group health scores have remained relatively stable. the longer term.
Reason for assessment: KEY INITIATIVES • The commencement of an extension AND ACHIEVEMENTS program delivered by Agriculture • Community participation rates in Victoria to promote sustainable land CMA NRM partnership projects have Our Catchments, Our Communities and wetland management practices remained relatively steady. Our Catchments, Our Communities – across the greater Grampians region • Landcare group health scores have Victoria’s first state-wide strategy for of the catchment. remained relatively stable, with a integrated catchment management was • The commencement of the Panyyabyr slight increase in average group health launched in Beaufort in May 2016. The Landcare group Fox Baiting Program scores for 2017-18. strategy reaffirms the regionally focused in the Victoria Valley. The project is • There was a small change in the and community-based approach to providing funding contributions to the number of active Landcare Groups catchment management. existing Grampians Ark Fox Baiting at a regional level (58 to 59). The The Glenelg Hopkins region four-year Program on private land, covering a Woorndoo Land Protection Group Our Catchments, Our Communities (OCOC) total of 32,000 ha. re-activated after more than five Project will support the delivery of RCS years in recess. priorities, and contribute to actions 3.1, Supporting Landcare 1.2, 2.1, 3.2, 4.1, 4.2 and 5.1 in the Regional Landcare Coordinator and Our Catchments, Our Communities Victorian Landcare Grants MANAGEMENT REPORT Strategy over four years. It is one of The Victorian Government supports the Most CMA programs contain activities the major programs being undertaken region’s Landcare and community based that are aimed at increasing community regionally to support RCS Objective 2.1 natural resource management groups by participation in NRM. The following and 2.2: funding a Regional Landcare Coordinator section provides a snapshot of key • Objective 2.1: Maintain and enhance (RLC) in Glenelg Hopkins CMA. The RLC programs and projects that were community capacity, awareness assists Landcare groups with training, undertaken in 2017-18 to support and and involvement in natural resource preparation of funding applications and improve community participation in management within the region; and provision of relevant resources; and NRM. Initiatives were focussed on the assists in building community knowledge following RCS actions: • Objective 2.2: Facilitate a collaborative approach to NRM. of regional and state NRM plans, • collaborating with Indigenous priorities and programs. communities, community The project will work with partners The RLC also manages the Victorian organisations, local government across the catchment to strengthen Landcare Grants (VLG) Program at a agencies, tertiary institutions regional investment processes, regional level. The devolved grants and industry groups to develop coordination and partnerships; and to program is funded by the Victorian partnership projects and joint refine catchment reporting processes at Government and has supported groups initiatives (to support RCS a state and regional level. The project to undertake a range of activities that implementation); will also deliver on-ground projects in partnership with regional stakeholders. include on-ground works, awareness- • community education programs to raising events and production of Key activities undertaken in 2017-18 increase awareness of natural assets publications. An overview of the Victorian include: within the region and encourage Landcare Grants Projects completed actions that improve land, water and • The delivery of the Water and in 2017-18 is provided in Figure 3 biodiversity outcomes; Country series of engagement (page 22). On-ground works focussed on protecting • implementing programs to build events. The series aimed to increase priority wetlands, riparian areas and community capacity in NRM; community awareness of the region’s unique wetlands, including their terrestrial vegetation, as identified • undertaking community awareness biodiversity and cultural values. through state and regional priorities. and extension activities to promote 214 community members participated NRM and best management practices in the series, which was funded by in agriculture; and the Victorian Government and the • implementing the Glenelg Hopkins Australian Government’s National Regional Landcare Support Strategy. Landcare Program.
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The VLGs have been supplemented by South West Landcare Gathering Regional Riparian Action Plan a large in-kind and financial contribution Landcare Grants The 8th Annual South West Landcare by Landcare members. Key achievements Gathering was held in Hamilton at the As part of the Regional Riparian Action for VLG projects completed in 2017-18 Hamilton Institute of Rural Learning Plan, Landcare grants were provided included: and attended by around 40 people. to six groups in the region: • over 23.1 km of fencing; The event was hosted by Glenelg Hamilton Coleraine Railway Line Hopkins CMA and focused on Landcare Group, Beyond Bolac • 93.9 ha of revegetation; group governance. Community Action Group, Eumeralla • 46.7 ha of weed control; Landcare Group, Lake Goldsmith Speakers presented on a number of Landcare Group, MAD for the Merri • five workshops / field days attracting themes including Child Safe Standards, and Beaufort Landcare Group. 270 participants; and Group Governance and Group OH&S responsibilities, and Cultural Heritage These grants support groups in • In-kind contributions from landholders, protection. This project was supported undertaking on-ground riparian works in valued at approximately $262,000. by Glenelg Hopkins CMA, through priority areas (e.g. fencing, revegetation funding from the Australian and vegetation enhancement, weed Government's National Landcare management). Program and Landcare Victoria.
Figure 3: Overview of Victorian Landcare Grants Projects completed in 2017-18
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Aboriginal Water Values Project • An evaluation of the Wiyn-murrup • The Friends of the Forgotten Yangarramela joint fire project that Woodlands project was established The Aboriginal Water Values project is will contribute to Aboriginal burning to raise awareness of the trees and a pilot project investigating Traditional inclusion within Victoria. shrubs historically found across the Owner values and uses for the Glenelg Victorian Volcanic Plain. There is River. The project aims to enable the • Traditional Owner delivery of cultural evidence to suggest that the focus integration of Aboriginal values and awareness training to the CMA Board species, remnant Silver Banksia traditional knowledge into environmental and staff. (Banksia marginate), Drooping water planning and delivery through • An Aboriginal Art Competition which Sheoak (Allocasaurina verticillata) and documenting Traditional Owner interests, included nine Aboriginal community Sweet Bursaria (Bursaria spinosa), aspirations, challenges and opportunities members of the Glenelg Hopkins. are genetically different to other for water management and cultural flow region submitting works, with populations and have adapted to the interests for the Glenelg River system. winners announced at the ‘Water and region. During 2017-18, the group Documentation of the project’s process Country’ Art Exhibition in February collected seeds to propagate from and outcomes have contributed to the 2018 which was attended by around 20 known locations of Banksia, 38 Aboriginal Water Framework for Victoria. 100 people. Bursaria populations and 29 Sheoak In 2017-18, the project was listed populations, to preserve local genetic • Development of the Glenelg as one of three finalists for the River diversity and re-establish the long- Hopkins CMA Aboriginal Partnership Basin Management Society Awards for term viability of these populations. Framework. the ‘involving community in waterway management’ category. • Twenty-four landholders and Community monitoring of platypus in managers from across the region the Glenelg River Other key achievements include the engaged in the ‘Yarns on Farms’ project being promoted at key water The rationale for the project is to extension program in collaboration forums and the 2017 International River undertake initial monitoring for platypus with Gunditj Mirring Traditional Symposium, and hosting an Aboriginal in sections of the upper Glenelg Owner Aboriginal Corporation. water and cultural flows knowledge River to support environmental water sharing event in partnership with communications and engagement NLP Threatened Species and Communities Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal activities. – Community Engagement Project Corporation (GLaWAC), West Gippsland The project aims to: CMA, Barengi Gadjin Land Council As part of this project, Glenelg Hopkins and Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owner CMA is working with a range of • build public awareness of this species Aboriginal Corporation in October 2017. partners and community groups to: and support for environmental water promote the continued use, support and management through community National Landcare reinvigoration of ecological knowledge participation and communication; to underpin biodiversity conservation; Program Projects • improve knowledge of the distribution and to build community capacity and of platypus populations to help inform NLP Indigenous Partnerships for Improved connection with the environment environmental water management; Natural Resource Management through activities that re-establish urban bush land, areas of Indigenous • provide training opportunities for Budj Glenelg Hopkins CMA is assisting significance and the health of urban Bim and Barengi Gadjin Land Council Traditional Owner groups and Aboriginal waterways. Rangers and Traditional Owners in best communities to participate in sustainable practice monitoring techniques; and natural resource management and Key achievements for 2017-18 include: agricultural activities. This project is • provide opportunities for knowledge • Glenelg Hopkins CMA continued supported through funding from the exchange between Ranger groups, to partner with the Upper Hopkins Australian Government’s National Traditional Owners, community Land Management Group and Landcare Program. A key focus is to groups and schools. the Panyyabyr Landcare Group support Aboriginal people to build to facilitate the Woodland Bird Key achievements for 2017-18 include capacity, knowledge and skills, where Monitoring program. Sixty-six the completion of a fauna assessment appropriate, for resource management community members participated using environmental DNA techniques in the catchment. in the four monitoring sessions held to establish the presence/absence of Key activities undertaken in 2017-18 as in 2017-18. Platypus in townships along the Glenelg part of this project included: River. The eDNA sampling and fyke • An Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Day net trapping workshops also supported • Involvement of approximately 58 held at Woorndoo to discuss how the training of Rangers and Traditional Year 8 and Year 9 students from Grassy Woodlands were managed by Owners, two community engagement Baimbridge College in the ‘Learning Traditional Owners and the changes field events with 85 participants in about Gunditjmara Country’ program that have occurred to present day. attendance, and the development of two with the CMA and Gunditj Mirring. Seventy participants attended on videos promoting the project. the day.
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Twinning Project Environmental Water Communications interviews, 43 Facebook posts, three videos, flow notifications, The Waterway Management Twinning Strategic river-community engagement implementation of the mythbusters Program is a structured mentoring events around environmental flows to campaign, and a successful Glenelg program, focussing on improving the the Glenelg River have occurred as part River photo competition which had 54 on-ground delivery of Victorian riparian of the Glenelg River Seasonal Watering contributions from members of restoration projects. The program Plan. Key achievements associated with the public. provides an opportunity for sharing the implementation of the Environmental and adoption of effective approaches Water Communications Strategy in in waterway management between all 2017-18 included: six media releases, those working in waterway management 26 published articles, four radio across the State.
The Waterway Management Twinning Program is being collaboratively delivered CASE STUDY by Glenelg Hopkins CMA and the Australian River Restoration Centre WATER AND COUNTRY (ARRC) and is overseen by a Steering CHALLENGE: The Glenelg Hopkins catchment has approximately 44 per cent Committee with representatives from of Victoria’s total number of wetlands3. These wetlands provide important Glenelg Hopkins CMA, ARRC and the habitat for numerous species in the region, including endemic and threatened Victorian Department of Environment, or endangered species such as the Little Galaxias, Growling Grass Frog and the Water, Land and Planning. The Twinning Australasian Bittern, as well as a range of other important or iconic species such Program is based on industry-based as the Brolga and White-bellied Sea Eagle. The extent of the region’s wetlands mentoring principles and practices that has declined by approximately 50 per cent since European settlement4 and have been tailored for the NRM sector. further declines are likely to occur without intervention and modification to Implementation of this program has current agricultural practices in the region. been supported through funding from the Victorian Government (VWPIF APPROACH: ‘Water and Country’ was a series of community engagement program) and the Australian River Basin events held across the Glenelg Hopkins catchment between November 2017 Management Society. and February 2018, to showcase the regions unique wetlands for their rich Ten mentor/mentee partnerships were biodiversity, and social and cultural values. established in early 2018. Participants RESULTS: Over 200 community members were involved in the Water and come from a diverse range of Country series, which included: organisations including CMAs, Landcare, DELWP, Water Authorities, Traditional • Two field trips with Gunditjmara Traditional Owners to Lake Condah, Owner organisations and private the Mission and the Tyrendarra Indigenous Protected Area in November consulting. The range of projects being 2017. The field trips involved discussions on wetland restoration and the worked on are equally as diverse and biodiversity and cultural values of the Budj Bim landscape. include communicating the success of • A country visit to the National Heritage listed Budj Bim Landscape with the Living Murray program, developing Hamilton OSH Club’s school holiday program. Thirty-three children a prospectus of Aboriginal Water participated in a tour of the Lake Condah wetland to learn about its iconic projects, innovative ways of engaging plants and animals, and how Traditional Owners lived on the land. the community in urban waterway restoration and applying an offset model • A wetland themed song writing workshop with local children’s entertainer for reducing the impact of treated Barry Peters. Sixteen children attended the workshop and learnt about the wastewater on receiving waterways. regions wetlands through song, specifically in relation to brolgas and habitat protection.
• The ‘Water and Country’ Art Exhibition held in February 2018. The event was attended by over 100 community members and included Aboriginal and local art under the theme ‘Water and Country’.
KEY PARTNERS: Victorian Government, Australian Government’s National Landcare Program, Gunditj Mirring TOAC, Budj Bim Rangers and Hamilton OSH Club.
3. Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Glenelg Hopkins Regional Catchment Strategy 2013-2019, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton, 2013. 4. Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Glenelg Hopkins Regional Catchment Strategy 2013-2019, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton, 2013.
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3.2 WATERWAYS (RIVERS, The extent of wetlands in the region has The best condition reaches were typically ESTUARIES, WETLANDS) declined by approximately 60 per cent in the Glenelg and Portland Coast basins since European settlement, primarily in the west of the catchment, and those Condition Statement due to drainage and conversion to in the poorest condition in the Hopkins iii This section provides an overview of the agriculture . A recent study conducted basin, which has the largest proportion condition of the region’s rivers, wetlands on a wetland cluster in the south-eastern cleared for agriculture. Grampians area showed a 45 per cent and estuaries. ISC results showed that stream condition increase in incidences where wetlands varied considerably between the three have been impacted by cropping Regional context main basins in the region, with streams of between 2010 and 2015iv. All wetland the Glenelg Basin being in best condition The Glenelg River is the largest river in types within the Glenelg Hopkins region (Figure 5). All reaches in good condition south-west Victoria and contains some currently face a range of threats that will (14 per cent of reaches assessed) were in of the best condition river reaches in be exacerbated by climate change. the Glenelg Basin. Both the Glenelg and the region. Significant tributaries of There are eight major estuaries in the Portland basins had the majority of their the Glenelg River include the Wannon, Glenelg Hopkins region: Glenelg River stream length assessed as in moderate Chetwynd, Stokes, Crawford and estuary, Fawthrop Lagoon, Surry River condition (68 per cent and 84 per cent Wando rivers. The four main catchments estuary, Fitzroy River estuary, Yambuk respectively)v. Much of the stream length within the Portland Coast basin are the Lake, Moyne River estuary, Merri River in the Hopkins basin was assessed as Moyne, Eumeralla-Shaw system, Darlot estuary and the Hopkins River estuary. in poor condition (38 per cent) or very Creek-Fitzroy River system and the Most estuaries within the region close poor condition (56 per cent). This was Surry River. These are relatively short intermittently following the formation of generally due to modified flow regimes, rivers, which drain the immediate inland a sand bar at the estuary mouth. Both degraded riparian vegetation, poor bank areas and flow to the Southern Ocean. Moyne estuary and the smaller outlet condition and low water quality from The Hopkins River is a major waterway associated with Fawthrop Lagoon are elevated nutrients and salinityvi. draining the eastern part of the region artificially kept permanently open. and enters the Southern Ocean at It should be noted that the ISC3 Warrnambool. The Hopkins basin is assessment coincided with a drought largely cleared and used for agriculture. Rivers benchmark period, which was particularly severe All basins have high value environmental – Index of Stream Condition 3 in the Glenelg Hopkins region. These reaches, which support rare and The environmental condition of rivers conditions impacted on several measures threatened flora and fauna. in Victoria is assessed using the Index of the ISC, in particular water quality and hydrology. The region’s rivers support a range of of Stream Condition (ISC). The last ISC social values including fishing, boating, assessment in the region was undertaken camping, swimming, picnicking and in 2010 (ISC 3). The condition of bushwalking. Rivers contribute to the waterways in the region varies from region’s economy and are valued for good to very poor, reflecting the level of the supply of water for agriculture, modification of the waterways and types sand mining, drinking water, tourism of land use. Waterways in near natural and fishing. condition with high environmental values are generally found in the more forested The region has more than 5,400 areas of the catchment. Forty-eight per wetlands, covering 73,000 ha or three cent of assessed reaches in the region per cent of the region’s area. This were in moderate to good condition, represents 14 per cent of Victoria’s with the remainder in poor to very poor total area of wetlands and 44 per cent condition (Figure 4). of the state’s total number of wetlandsii. The region’s wetlands vary greatly, ranging from large and permanent Figure 4: Glenelg Hopkins Index of Stream Condition freshwater lakes to small and ephemeral 60 (non-permanent) freshwater meadows. Seasonal herbaceous wetlands, which are ephemeral, isolated freshwater wetlands, 0 are particularly well represented. 26 26 This wetland type is listed as critically % Length 20 endangered under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cwlth) (EPBC). Sixteen of 0 the region’s wetlands are listed in the E cellent Good Moderate Poor Very Poor Directory of Important Wetlands in Stream Condition Australia (DIWA).
25 OUR REGION – CATCHMENT CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT REPORT 2017-18
Figure 5: Glenelg Hopkins Index of Stream Condition 3 Reaches
Wetlands benchmark hydrology, and biota (e.g. vegetation Meadows are dry for extended periods – Index of Wetland Condition structure and health). The results of the and are therefore more vulnerable to IWC are presented in Table 7. conversion to agricultural use. Of the An Index of Wetland Condition wetlands that remain in the region, most vii The assessment revealed that assessment was undertaken in the are on private land. Many are accessed 64 per cent of wetland surveyed in region in 2009. The IWC measures by stock, which reduces the fringing the region were in good to excellent six aspects (sub-indices) of wetland vegetation, impacts on hydrology and condition with the exception of shallow condition: the wetland catchment, affects natural processes. physical form, soils, water properties, freshwater meadows.
Table 7: Glenelg Hopkins Region Index of Wetland Condition Results
Wetlands Surveyed (%) Wetland Condition Category (number) Proportion Percentage Per cent Insufficient Type of all of all types Excellent Good Moderate Poor Surveyed Data Wetlands Surveyed Deep marsh 12.3% 6.9% 27.0% 30 15 4 1
Shallow marsh 20.3% 4.1% 27.0% 33 6 2 5 4
Meadow 47.4% 2.5% 37.8% 17 8 1 13 31
Open water 13.9% 0.8% 3.8% 3 1 3
Permanent saline 1.5% 8.0% 3.8% 3 3 1
Semi permanent saline 4.5% 0.4% 0.5% 1
26 OUR REGION – CATCHMENT CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT REPORT 2017-18
Estuaries benchmark The results should be viewed with Levels of sediment deposits in all but – Index of Estuary Condition caution as the scores only reflect a Lake Yambuk were scored from moderate subset of measures that were assessed to good. Estuarine flora, as measured by The Index of Estuary Condition (IEC) during the trial. The IEC trial indicated all phytoplankton levels, was excellent in was developed by Deakin University estuaries, with the exception of Fawthrop the Hopkins River Estuary, but very poor and is intended to assess the condition Lagoon, have excellent physical form to moderate across all other estuaries of Victorian estuaries, with scores on with respect to pre-European condition, assessed. Phytoplankton is a measure of estuary characteristics rated from however estuaries scored from very productivity and is influenced by nutrient viii 1 = very poor to 5 = excellent . poor to good for hydrology. This lower levels, turbidity and stratification of the A recent IEC trial completed in 2015 score reflects regulated flow regimes and estuary. These levels may be influenced found that the condition of Glenelg artificially opening the mouth of most by surrounding land use practices. Hopkins estuaries scored an average of estuaries to reduce the risk of flooding. moderate to good (results presented in Water quality was rated moderate to Table 8). excellent across all estuaries.
Table 8: Trial Index of Estuary Condition Results – Summary of Selected Measures in Each of Five Themes
Estuary Physical Form Hydrology Water Quality Sediment Flora Overall
Glenelg River 5 1.5 3.5 4 3 3
Fawthrop Lagoon 4 2 -
Surrey River 5 4 3.5 3
Fitzroy River 5 2 4.5 4 3 4
Lake Yambuk 5 2 3.5 2 1 3
Moyne River 5 3 -
Merri River 5 1 3.5 3 1 3
Hopkins River 5 1 3.5 4 5 4
Annual community indicator theme assessment 2017-18
Annual Rating Key Evidence Assessment
Concerned A level of concern that significant events • Reports and incidents of wetland loss during 2017-18, due to cropping of during the year may have an adverse impact ephemeral wetlands. in the longer term. • Extensive fire damage to riparian vegetation on three major waterways. • Possible long-term impact from fire in two peat wetlands.
27 OUR REGION – CATCHMENT CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT REPORT 2017-18
Reason for assessment: • The Terang fire also burnt peat • Environmental water was used swamps at Cobrico Swamp and throughout summer/autumn 2018 • Further reports of cropping of Lake Elingamite, with resultant which helped to maintain water ephemeral wetlands on the Victorian changes to soil structure and possible quality and connectivity between Volcanic Plain were received in acidification of water and soils. habitats and provided cues for native 2017-18. fish to migrate throughout the system. • Good rainfall and stream flows • Three major grass fires in the Gazette were experienced in the Glenelg • Recent research has shown that for and Terang areas on March 2018 catchment in spring 2017. These high many catchments in Glenelg Hopkins burnt riparian vegetation along flows improved water quality and CMA region and across the state, the 24.5 km of Mt Emu Creek, 2.1 km facilitated the exchange of nutrients runoff response has declined. That is, of Eumerella River and 4.9 km of the and food resources between the for a given amount of rainfall there is Moyne River. river bank and river channel. The less stream flow than was recorded • Wetland restoration and protection flows provided opportunity for fish in past decades. Since the millennium projects continue to benefit a suite of to move throughout the system, and drought, some catchments have flora and fauna species. supported spawning and recruitment recovered, while others have notix. of many fish species including Estuary perch and Tupong.
Figure 6: Annual rainfall for the Glenelg Hopkins region (2000-2017)
(Source: Australia’s Environment Explorer 2017, developed by the Australian National University – Fenner School of the Environment and Society, www.ausenv.online).
900
800
700
600
500
mm 00
300
200
100 2000 2001 2002 2003 200 2005 2006 2007 2008 2010 2011 2012 2013 201 2015 2016 2017 0 2009
EAR
Figure 7: Estimated annual river inflow in the Glenelg Hopkins region 2000–2017
(Source: Australia’s Environment Explorer 2017, developed by the Australian National University – Fenner School of the Environment and Society, www.ausenv.online. Total surface and substrate runoff into the river as estimated by the OzWALD model data fusion system).
160
1 0
120
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80 mm 60
0
20 2000 2001 2002 2003 200 2005 2006 2007 2008 2010 2011 2012 2013 201 2015 2016 2017 0 2009
EAR
28 OUR REGION – CATCHMENT CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT REPORT 2017-18
MANAGEMENT REPORT Victorian Water Program • carp control and native fish Investment Framework monitoring; KEY INITIATIVES (2016-2020) AND ACHIEVEMENTS • priority on ground works along the A number of Victorian Government Grange Burn; and Glenelg Hopkins Regional funded initiatives are being implemented • establishment, maintenance and Waterway Strategy regionally as part of the VWPIF, which management of instream habitat. Implementation support RCS and Regional Waterway Progress continues with stage 2 of the Strategy implementation. Key waterway Delivery of the Regional Waterway Wannon River Waterway Action Plan. initiatives are outlined below. Coastal Strategy is underpinned by the Victorian By December 2018, 24 km of fencing water programs and projects are outlined Water Program Investment Framework to exclude stock from waterways, and in the Coasts section of this report. (VWPIF). Excellent progress is being 80 ha of revegetation and weed control made on annual output targets. The Hopkins Works Program is due for completion. Work on stage 3 Strategy has completed its fourth year of the Wannon River Waterway Action of implementation. This project will protect and maintain Plan has commenced. To date, waterway waterways in the Hopkins Basin by An interim review of the Waterway condition assessments have been supporting engagement of landholders, Strategy will be completed by December undertaken on 43 private properties, community groups and the Dairy 2018. The Interim Review provides a with 32 landholders now engaged to Industry to develop Waterway Action gap analysis and summary of corrective undertake future waterway protection Plans for Brucknell and Mt Emu Creeks; actions to inform the completion actions. and on-ground works, particularly willow of activities. Bio-physical and social removal, on the Merri River. The Grange Burn underwent the removal outcomes achieved through delivery of of large densities of exotic elms, poplars the Waterway Strategy are being tracked Highlights for the Merri River for and oak trees cleared from 560 m of and will be compiled in the Interim 2017-18 included: public riverbank to allow increased Review. The outcomes of the Interim • 7,400 plants rehabilitated across access for recreational fishing and the Review are guided by the Regional 3.2 ha which included three establishment of 32,900 native trees, Waterway Strategy MERI Plan. community planting days and various shrubs and grasses across 3.5 km of Highlights for the past financial year have private landholders; cleared banks. included delivery of: • 780 m of riverbank cleared of willows Regional Works Program • priority on-ground works associated to increase recreational fishing access; with the Fitzroy Estuary and Darlot This project aims to maintain and • five letter drops and three community Creek Waterway Action Plan, a pre- improve the ecological values of regional information sessions to provide input cursor to the Flagship Waterways: priority waterways by supporting: into rehabilitation projects and discuss Budj Bim Connections; local views and opinions; and • a regional works crew, to protect and • strategic river-community restore waterways in key regional • 760 m of fencing and installation engagement events around towns working in partnership with of two off stream water systems environmental flows to the Glenelg local government, landholders and including a solar pump and troughs. River as part of the Glenelg River community groups; Seasonal Watering Plan; Highlights for the Mt Emu Creek • landholder project audits, Waterway Action Plan for 2017-18 • priority on-ground works and re-engagement and project included 20 km of fencing installed, engagement supporting farming maintenance activities; 13,000 plants established and 123 ha families of the Wannon River of remnant vegetation protected. Aerial • contribution to the Surface Water waterways; and drone footage of the ‘before’ landscape Monitoring Partnership, review of • completion of the Mt Emu Creek and was also recorded for each site. Blue Green Algae Response Plans Fiery Creek Water Action Plans and and participation in Integrated Water associated weed control, fencing and Glenelg Works Program Management Plan meetings; and revegetation projects. This project will maintain and improve • monitoring, evaluation and reporting the ecological values of the Glenelg basin of outcomes, development of a waterways by supporting: Glenelg Hopkins Waterway Strategy Monitoring, Evaluation Reporting and • priority on-ground works from the Improvement (MERI) Plan and spatial Wannon Waterway Action Plan (reach reporting through the waterway 38-25 lower) developed in 2015-16; strategy database linkage tool. • engagement of landholders to develop a Waterway Action Plan for Wannon River (reach 38-24);
29 OUR REGION – CATCHMENT CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT REPORT 2017-18
Key achievements for 2017-18 include Statutory Water Functions Project VWPIF Environmental Water Program the works crew supporting eight (Floodplain and Waterway Management) (2016-20) community groups and 46 landholders This project supports the delivery of The VWPIF Environment Water Program in undertaking environmental land the CMA’s floodplain and waterway is comprised of a number of sub-projects. management works. This work included management responsibilities. As part An overview of key achievements for 23 km of fence maintenance and new of this project, the CMA continued to 2017-18 are provided below: fencing, 3.4 ha of revegetation and support Local Government and VicSES 197 ha of weed control as part of the The EWR officer provides strategic in the development and review of 2017-18 program. Forty-three property planning and delivery of the available Regional Municipal Flood Emergency assessments were also conducted as part environmental water entitlements in Plans. The CMA’s Floodplain and Works of this work. the region. The project focuses on team responded to flood referrals and the Glenelg River which is regulated The works crew also assisted local notices during the reporting period, by the Rocklands and Moora Moora communities with fire recovery efforts provided flood advice responses, and Reservoirs. Environmental water following the March 2018 fire events. issued works on waterways licences. delivered to the Glenelg River from Here they assisted 17 landholders with Other activities that this project Rocklands Reservoir Totalled 10,207 ML. clean up and maintenance, including supported in 2017-18 included: Ecological monitoring undertaken during 12 km of fencing. • supporting Southern Grampians environmental watering has continued to Shire in undertaking the Coleraine demonstrate a positive response in the Regional Floodplain Management flood study; distribution and recruitment of range of Strategy Implementation fish species. • supporting Moyne Shire in RCS measure 3.4.1 (development of a undertaking the Cudgee flood Record numbers of young Tupong were regional floodplain management plan) investigation; recorded moving upstream from the has been completed with the finalisation estuary to the freshwater reaches of the of the Regional Floodplain Management • participation of CMA staff on the Glenelg River in fish surveys undertaken Strategy (RFMS). Working Group for Port Fairy Coastal during an environmental water release and Structure Planning Project; The intent of the RFMS is to interpret in summer 2018. Monitoring is also and apply the policies, actions and • participation of CMA staff on the showing a good diversity in the size of accountabilities of the Victorian Project Control Group for the Barwon individuals in the population, indicating Floodplain Management Strategy Southwest Local Coastal Hazard Tupong are recruiting, surviving and (VFMS) in managing flood risks at the Assessment Scoping Project; and thriving in the system. regional and local level. It provides a • supporting Corangamite Shire to The Glenelg River Crossing project will single, regional planning document upgrade flood warning on the Mount investigate how best to negate the last for floodplain management and a high- Emu Creek above Skipton through major fish barrier on the Glenelg River. level list of regional priorities to guide the installation of a telemetered This will benefit to both migratory and future investment. stream gauge. non-migratory fish populations in the The primary role of the RFMS is to help Glenelg River by ensuring upstream agencies with floodplain management Regional Flood Studies and downstream migration of fish and flood emergency management species under low flow conditions. A key objective of the RCS is to increase functions to align their priorities Work undertaken in 2017-18 has the provision of reliable flood information and maximise community benefits included landholder engagement and the for settlements. Flood studies are with available funding. The CMA led development of a concept and detailed currently underway for Coleraine and the development of the RFMS in design for a fishway structure to inform Cudgee to improve knowledge of collaboration with the local community, future works. potential flood impacts on these towns LGAs, VicSES and other partner agencies. (RCS measure 3.4.4). The projects are The Strategy was approved by the CMA being undertaken by Southern Grampians Board in December 2017. Shire Council and Moyne Shire Council A number of floodplain management respectively, in partnership with the priority actions contained in the RFMS CMA, with funding support from the are currently in progress. These include Victorian and Australian Government. the Coleraine and Cudgee flood investigations, flood improvements for Mount Emu Creek (Skipton) and the Ballarat High Flow bi-pass mitigation assessment.
30 OUR REGION – CATCHMENT CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT REPORT 2017-18
Three temporary gauges have been The Permanent Restoration of The Natural Disaster Relief and installed as part of the Improving Flows Long Swamp project will result in Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA) in the Upper Glenelg project. These are the permanent restoration of over program is aimed at providing assistance placed through Reach 0 of the Glenelg 1,100 ha of Long Swamp in Victoria’s to those affected by widespread flooding River and water infrastructure channels. Discovery Bay Coastal Park. Improving experienced across the region in 2016. Data from these gauges will be used in connectivity within Long Swamp will There are currently 76 flood recovery a hydrology study in the final year of the benefit a suite of threatened species sites listed for rehabilitation with an project. The hydrology study will assess such as the Variegated Pygmy Perch and estimated project cost of $7.7 million. data and update the environmental flow Little Galaxias. Monitoring of fish and During 2017-18 the NDRRA Flood study for this reach to benefit a range of vegetation communities across the many Recovery Project piloted: EPBC listed species. wetlands was consolidated in a report highlighting the effectiveness of the • new OH&S procedures and protocols This year Glenelg Hopkins CMA temporary weir structure at boosting the for field and construction work; partnered with GWMWater to health of these wetlands and restoring coordinate a trial release from Moora • new and improved landholder habitat. The viability of turning the Moora Reservoir into reach 0. This was agreements; temporary weir structure into an artificial the first time water for the environment sand dune is now being assessed, • development of a Preferred has been released from Moora Moora to increase its longevity and blend it Suppliers List – Construction to Reservoir and helps to build an seamlessly into the environment. enable streamlined contracting for operational understanding of how water construction; can be delivered into this reach. The objective of the Glenelg River Estuary Flow requirements project is • construction induction and cultural The Improving Flows in the Budj Bim to build on the success of a previous heritage awareness training for Landscape project seeks to improve study that developed a hydrodynamic construction contractors; and water flow pathways for rivers and model capable of supporting further wetlands on the Budj Bim National • the use of innovative design solutions flow requirement assessments. This Heritage Landscape. This area once such as GEOWEB grass chutes, current project will use an adapted supported a unique aquaculture system, gypsum to ameliorate soil chemistry EEFAM approach to provide guidance unlike anything else in the world. The issues in black cracking clays around the benefits of existing landscape is currently under nomination and coir log networks to address environmental flow requirements and for World Heritage Status for these hillslope erosion. provide recommendations for future unique cultural values. The project aims improvements. These improvements can Key highlights and achievements for to improve our understanding these be used to better inform the FLOWS 2017-18 included completion of site water flow pathways across the Budj study and the day to day management assessments at 76 sites, with detailed Bim landscape to protect and improve of the Glenelg River environmental surveys undertaken at 23 sites and environmental values and restore water reserve. 44 detailed design drawings and traditional cultural practices and heritage construction plans developed. Due places. To date the main focus has been The Riparian Crowdfunding Project diligence for cultural heritage, crown land on engagement with Traditional Owners was an innovative trial for three CMAs and native vegetation was undertaken to clarify project scope. A consultant has launching our first crowdfunding where required on 44 flood recovery been appointed to complete the technical campaign aptly named 'Funds for Fish'. sites across the region. work associated with the project. Due to the generous support from the local community and business the Eight construction tender packages CMA was successful in exceeding its were released, covering 23 sites, with fundraising target of $12,000 for the on-ground works commencing in early 'Big Fish Hotel' project in Warrnambool. February 2018. Twelve sites were completed by 30 June 2018. Works During 2017-18 the CMA commenced completed included rock chutes, trickle the implementation of the Big Fish pipe units and levee banks, GEOWEB Hotel project. The goal was to enhance grass chutes and a pile field. recreational fishing in the Merri River, Warrnambool. This was undertaken through the introduction of large woody debris (logs/branches), fish hotels and large rocks. The project culminated with the public being invited along to watch some of the habitat get placed in the Merri River.
31 OUR REGION – CATCHMENT CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT REPORT 2017-18
Our Catchments, Our Communities CASE STUDY A number of activities delivered by the OCOC project have been reported under GLENELG ESTUARY AND DISCOVERY BAY the Community headline indicator theme. RAMSAR SITE This project has also delivered activities under the Waterways theme, which for BACKGROUND: The Glenelg Estuary and Discovery Bay Ramsar Site was 2017-18 include: recognised as a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar • The Nature Glenelg Trust led purchase Convention on Wetlands in 2018. This site is Australia’s most recent Ramsar of Walker Swamp. The swamp will site. The nomination process commenced in 2015. The process was supported undergo hydrological restoration through funds from the Australian Riverprize, awarded to the CMA’s Glenelg and be placed under a conservation Restoration Project and was initiated in response to strong interest from the covenant. Nelson Community.
• The Commencement of the The area listed comprises more than 22,000 ha of public land and includes Landholder Incentives Program across part of the Lower Glenelg National Park, Discovery Bay Coastal Park and the the Greater Grampians region for the Nelson Streamside Reserve. The area is known for its wetlands and a variety of improvement of wetlands on private threatened species including plants, water birds and fish. The site has three main land. Eight landholders are currently systems, including the freshwater wetlands of Long Swamp, Bridgewater Lakes participating in the program with and Swan Lake, the Glenelg Estuary, Oxbow Lake and the dune fields, along 374.2 ha of wetlands benefiting from 50 km of the Discovery Bay Coastal Park. improved management practices. APPROACH: The nomination required substantial technical and community input to develop the required supporting documentation. Following extensive consultation and data collation the site was found to meet five of the eleven Ramsar criteria. Of note, are the presence of a rare wetland type; dune slack wetlands, and habitat for 95 birds – with 24 migratory species protected under international agreements.
The site Management Plan identifies ways to protect the site’s critical components, processes and services. It aims to improve the ecological character and promote the sustainable use of the site for the benefit of the community
RESULTS: A Ramsar Coordinating Committee is established that will prioritise annual management plan activities and oversee development and implementation of the site Monitoring Evaluation Reporting and Improvement (MERI) Plan. The MERI Plan assesses the status of the ecological character and effectiveness of management actions. The committee will also evaluate investment proposals to undertake activities to implement the plan
Victorian Government investment provided to date will enable better management of the site and protection of environment values. Funded activities such as weed removal, upgrade of infrastructure at Simpsons Landing and removal of a barrier to fish movement will also increase recreational opportunities through improved access to waterways and the site.
PARTNERS: Gunditj Mirring TOAC, Glenelg Shire Council, Parks Victoria, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Department of Environment Land Water and Planning, Department of Energy and Environment, Southern Rural Water.
32 OUR REGION – CATCHMENT CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT REPORT 2017-18
3.3 BIODIVERSITY Biodiversity benchmark by forests and woodlands, rather than the grassy plains that are characteristic of Regional context The extent and condition of native habitat other parts of the bioregionxii. and the health of native species The Glenelg Hopkins region has The Dundas Tablelands occurs in two significant, but often threatened, The extent of native vegetation has areas of the catchment, and is separated biodiversity. Over 215 species are declined significantly since European by the Greater Grampians bioregion. listed as threatened under the Victorian settlement, with less than 18 per cent Both blocks have been extensively Government’s Flora and Fauna Guarantee of the pre-European coverage remaining modified. Much of the remaining native Act 1988; and 130 species listed under in the region. Of this amount, around vegetation occurs in the larger blocks the Australian Government’s Environmental 12 per cent occurs on Crown land and of remnant vegetation on public land Protection and Biodiversity Conservation five percent on private land. Remnant on the north-east flank of the western Act 1999. Significant areas of the region vegetation by bioregion, compared to blockxiii. A very high proportion of also occur in two of 15 recognised pre-1750 figures is shown in Table 9. remaining vegetation in the eastern Australian Government biodiversity The Greater Grampians bioregion is the block of the Dundas Tablelands occurs hotpots (the Victorian Volcanic Plain and most intact bioregion within the Glenelg on private land, encompassing a large South Australia’s south-east/Victoria’s Hopkins region. number of ephemeral wetlandsxiv. south-west). These areas were identified The Victorian Volcanic Plain, Dundas Although connectivity is moderate to as hotspots due to their many endemic Tablelands, and Glenelg Plain are the high, particularly to the north-west species and associated levels of current three largest bioregions in the Glenelg of Dunkeld, site condition is generally and future conservation threats. Hopkins region by area with around poor. Remnant vegetation associated The major threat to biodiversity across 10 per cent or less of native vegetation with wetlands and streams in this the region is continued loss of habitat cover remaining (compared to pre-1750 area is generally of poor to moderate through clearing of native vegetation. extent).x site condition, but comparatively well The main drivers for this loss are connected compared to other bioregions The Victorian Volcanic Plain bioregion, agricultural intensification, population that have been mostly cleared. There which covers a large percentage of the and industry growth and infrastructure are also a number of major roads in the region, is the most cleared in the statexi. development including road and rail. eastern block of the Dundas Tablelands Although extensively cleared, there is Other key contributors to the decline that retain highly connected remnant considerable variation in the extent of of biodiversity across the region include vegetation, which is generally in poor native vegetation within this bioregion, climate change, pest plants and animals, conditionxv. with the proportion remaining west of firewood collection, overabundant native Caramut generally higher than elsewhere. The northwest block of the Glenelg Plain wildlife and increased use of public land While there are good condition blocks between Dergholm and Chetwynd is of for commercial and recreational activities. in the far south west at Mount Napier, good site condition within the majority of Budj Bim (Mount Eccles), Annya and public land, and retains vegetation that is Narrawong, these blocks are dominated highly connectedxvi.
Table 9: Remnant vegetation compared to pre-1750 figures (Source: Glenelg Hopkins RCS 2013-2019)
Pre-1750 Remnant vegetation Percentage No. of endangered Bioregion area (ha) remaining (ha) of original regional EVCs
Greater Grampians 151,140 129,634 86% 22
Bridgewater 18,192 11,471 63% 4
Glenelg Plain 383,116 148,554 39% 34
Wimmera 24,861 4,953 20% 16
Goldfields 15,363 4,000 26% 9
Central Victorian Uplands 81,351 22,123 27% 12
Dundas Tablelands 660,782 64,319 10% 49
Warrnambool Plain 113,598 7,742 7% 18
Victorian Volcanic Plain 1,223,766 72,286 6% 58
Total 2,672,169 465,082 17.4% 222
33 OUR REGION – CATCHMENT CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT REPORT 2017-18
Figure 8: NaturePrint Version 2.0 strategic natural values contributing most to biodiversity in the Glenelg Hopkins region
Figure 8 shows the areas in the Glenelg Some important vegetation remnants Tree Cover Hopkins region that contribute most on private land also remain, especially Regional tree cover has increased to biodiversity conservation and was along waterways. from around 19 per cent in 2000 to developed using DELWP’s NaturePrint The Parks Victoria 2013 State of the 25 per cent in 2017 (Figure 9). Much of Version 2.0 biodiversity planning Parks evaluation considered trends in the the increase in regional tree cover from tool. High value biodiversity areas are condition of natural values in parks over 2000 is likely to be from increases in depicted in red, pink and dark green the period 2010 to 2013 and assessed plantations in the ‘green triangle’ area of and include areas such as the Lower current condition as at June 2013. the catchment (e.g. blue gum plantations) Glenelg, Cobboboonee and Grampians Assessments are informed by local staff and farm forestry. National Parks, Dergholm and Black and other expert knowledge coupled Range State Parks, Tooloy-Lake Mundi As the climate of the Glenelg Hopkins with quantitative monitoring data, where Wildlife Reserve, Wilkin Flora and Fauna region becomes less suitable for existing available. Table 10 (page 35) provides a Reserve, Crawford River Regional Park, vegetation communities, it is likely that summary of this evaluation for 31 parks and Weecurra and Hotspur State Forests. there will be a gradual change in species found within or partly within the Glenelg While highly fragmented in nature, a composition.xvii For some habitat types, Hopkins region. The majority of regional number of remnants on the Victorian it is likely that a drying climate will result parks and reserves were assessed as Volcanic Plain are also considered to in a decline in tree cover.xviii Research being in a stable condition. be significant habitat. completed through the National Climate Change Adaptation Research Facility indicates that to reliably improve future landscapes for biodiversity relative to current ones, native vegetation cover needs to be restored to approximately 30 per cent.xix
34 OUR REGION – CATCHMENT CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT REPORT 2017-18
Table 10: Summary of Parks Victoria State of Parks Report 2013 data for the Glenelg Hopkins region (Source: Parks Victoria)
Number of Condition of natural values Park Condition trends parks
Excellent 1 Mortlake Common Flora Reserve Condition was maintained
Bats Ridge Wildlife Reserve Condition was maintained Cape Nelson Lighthouse Reserve Condition was maintained Cape Nelson State Park Condition was maintained Cobboboonee National Park Condition was maintained Cobra Killuc Wildlife Reserve Condition improved Crawford River Regional Park Condition was maintained Dergholm State Park Condition was maintained Discovery Bay Coastal Park Condition was maintained Discovery Bay Marine National Park Condition improved Ecklin South Swamp Nature Conservation Reserve Condition improved Good 20 Glenelg River, Fulham SS.R. Condition was maintained Grampians National Park Condition was maintained Kaladbro Wildlife Reserve Condition was maintained Lake Linlithgow & Bullrush Swamp Lake Reserve Condition was maintained Langi Ghiran State Park Condition declined Lower Glenelg National Park Condition was maintained Merri Marine Sanctuary Condition was maintained Mount Napier State Park Condition was maintained Mount Richmond National Park Condition was maintained Narrawong Flora Reserve Condition was maintained
Ararat Hills Regional Park Condition was maintained Bay of Islands Coastal Park Trend in condition unknown Belfast Coastal Reserve Condition was maintained Black Range State Park Condition was maintained Lake Elingamite Lake Reserve Condition was maintained Fair 10 Mount Buangor State Park Condition declined Mount Eccles National Park Condition declined Tooloy-Lake Mundi Wildlife Reserve Condition declined Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve Condition declined Wilkin Flora and Fauna Reserve Condition declined
Poor 0 Not applicable Not applicable
Figure 9: Tree cover in the Glenelg Hopkins region – per cent of area classified as forest (Source: Australia’s Environment Explorer 2016, developed by the Australian National University – Fenner School of the Environment and Society)
35
30
25
20
Percentage 15
10
5 1988 1989 1991 1992 1995 1999 2000 2002 200 2005 2006 2007 2008 2010 2011 2012 2013 201 2015 2016 2017 0 2009
EAR
35 OUR REGION – CATCHMENT CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT REPORT 2017-18
Annual biodiversity assessment 2017-18
Annual Rating Key Evidence Assessment
Neutral A largely neutral state, where events during • Wild fires burnt over 14,000 ha of predominantly pasture grasses but also the year may have been significant but are impacted on riparian land and peat wetlands. within expected variation and will have little • Positive outcomes observed for some threatened species across the region. impact in the longer term. • Above average rainfall since 2016 benefited many terrestrial and aquatic species, and vegetation communities. • Over-browsing by Koalas in the mixed Eucalypt woodlands of the far south west of the catchment remains a significant concern. • Investment and delivery of state funded biodiversity projects for threat abatement, for example pine wildling control, linear reserves, and wetland restoration. • Draining of wetlands and change of landuse.
Reason for assessment: – The high flows in 2016-17, MANAGEMENT REPORT with follow up flows in 2017-18, • Significant wild fire events were provided much needed inundation KEY INITIATIVES recorded in the region in 2017-18. of many floodplain and riparian AND ACHIEVEMENTS vegetation communities, supporting • While the ability to measure the Threatened Species and condition and trend of threatened their recovery from an extended Communities species over a 12-month period dry period. The wet conditions is often difficult, some positive that continued throughout spring Several long-standing projects are outcomes were observed. The are likely to have supported being undertaken within the Glenelg protected population of Eastern flowering, seed set and dispersal Hopkins region where actions are being Barred Bandicoots at Hamilton for many species. implemented at a landscape or species- Parklands continued to increase – Although little is known of specific level to support the conservation following the release of 20 bandicoots their lifecycles, Glenelg Spiny of the region’s threatened species; in April 2016. The species is listed Freshwater Crayfish are thought and contribute to the RCS objective of as extinct in the wild. A number of to be particularly sensitive to poor improving the health of key populations threatened orchid species were also water quality, especially when of threatened species and communities. seen to have good emergence and moulting. The species distribution is Species benefiting from these projects flowering, with no negative impacts restricted to the Glenelg River and include the Eastern Barred Bandicoot, to species populations recorded at Fitzroy Rivers systems in south- Southern Brown Bandicoot, Long-nosed sites monitored. western Victoria and five spring-fed Potoroo, Southern Bent-wing Bat, • The 2018 Brolga census indicated coastal streams in south-eastern South-eastern Red-tailed Black- there was good breeding success in South Australia. It is expected that Cockatoo, Yarra Pygmy Perch, Dwarf the past two years. populations will have been impacted Galaxias, Striped Legless Lizard, Golden by dry conditions in 2015-16, Sun Moth, Spiny Rice Flower, White • Estimated annual precipitation for however improved water quality Sunray, Trailing Hop-bush, Fragrant 2016 was the second highest recorded following good flows in the Glenelg Leek-orchid, Limestone Spider-orchid, in the region since 2000;xx while River since 2016-17 are likely to Maroon Leek-orchid, Mellblom’s estimated annual river inflows for have increased available habitat and Spider-orchid, Metallic Sun-orchid, 2016 were the highest since 2000.xxi food resources for the species. Gorae Leek-orchid, Pretty Leek-orchid, Above average flows in 2017 is likely Basalt Rustyhood, Robust Spider-orchid, to have had a positive effect on many • Poor breeding success since 2005 for Candy Spider-orchid, Basalt Sun-orchid, riparian and terrestrial species. the South-eastern Red-tailed Black- Cockatoo, and associated record low Coastal Dandelion and Wrinkled Cassinia. – Above average rainfall and stringy bark seed production (the Many of these flora species are endemic, associated wetland filling in 2017- bird's key food source) has raised or largely endemic to the region. 18 will likely result in good breeding concerns about the extinction risk for Notable projects that are being success for species such as the the species. undertaken regionally include: Growling Grass Frog and Brolga. • Over-browsing by Koalas in the mixed • Eastern Barred Bandicoot (EBB) – The high river flows extended into Eucalypt woodlands of the far south recovery projects at Hamilton spring, providing conditions to west of the catchment remains a Parklands and preparation of support the migration and spawning significant concern. the 920 ha Tiverton site for of many native fish species. • Ongoing government investment in reintroductions of EBBs planned threat mitigation including Grampians for spring 2018; Ark, Glenelg Ark and Glenelg Eden • South-eastern Red-tailed Black- pest control programs. Cockatoo recovery project;
36 OUR REGION – CATCHMENT CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT REPORT 2017-18
• National Landcare Program • community engagement (DELWP A range of targeted extension activities Threatened Species and Communities and BA); on the VVP, including a stewardship and Project, being delivered in partnership • pest management and monitoring covenanting program, have been utilised with DELWP and Birdlife Australia; of Eastern Barred Bandicoots to maximise uptake and ensure best- and (DELWP and Conservation Volunteers value sites are protected and secured • Glenelg Ark which is a landscape Australia); and into the future. scale fox baiting project aimed at • monitoring and protection of Key achievements for 2017-18 include: benefiting selected small mammal Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo (BA). • annual grassland monitoring field species including the Southern Brown work was conducted on 30 sites Bandicoot and Long-nosed Potoroo. Key achievements for 2017-18 included: across the VVP. This is the third year Key regional projects and activities • weed control and monitoring of of monitoring and the diversity of that have been undertaken in 2017-18 839 ha of high quality linear reserve some plant genera was higher than towards implementing RCS objectives and grasslands. previous monitoring. associated actions for threatened species • monitoring for seven threatened flora • 726 ha of critically endangered and communities are outlined below. species (Pretty Leek-orchid, Gorae ecological communities (Natural Leek-orchid, Fragrant Leek-orchid, Temperate Grassland and Grassy NLP Threatened Species and Basalt Rustyhood, Robust Spider- Eucalypt Woodland of the VVP and Communities Project – DELWP orchid, Candy Spider-orchid, Seasonal Herbaceous Wetlands of and Birdlife Australia Wrinkled Cassinia). the Lowland Plains) are being actively managed under CMA management This project aims to work with a range • 18 community engagement activities agreements. Grassland sites are of partners and community groups to relating to threatened species, monitored each Spring for their protect and enhance 2,200 ha of the including the engagement of 83 general structural health and 33,600 ha of existing nationally listed volunteers in the annual count for the biomass levels. ecological communities and manage Red Tail Block Cockatoo. 85,330 ha for threatened species over • maintaining the predator proof • 334 ha of Natural Temperate the Glenelg Hopkins region. fence at Hamilton Parklands for Grassland and Seasonal Herbaceous Wetland that are protected by on- The project area is primarily focused the protection of Eastern Barred title Trust for Nature Conservation on the Victorian Volcanic Plains and bandicoots. Covenants have been actively Goldfields Bioregions, both of which are This project is supported through funding managed in accordance with site regional, state and national priorities. from the Australian Government’s management plans. Target threatened species include the National Landcare Program. Striped Legless Lizard, Eastern Barred This project was supported through Bandicoot, Golden Sun Moth, Red- NLP Protection of Ecological funding from the Australian Government’s tailed Black-Cockatoo, Swift Parrot, Communities & Grassland National Landcare Program. Brolga and ten threatened flora species. Monitoring Project Four nationally threatened Ecological Grampians Ark, Glenelg Ark and Communities are being targeted The Protection of Ecological Glenelg Eden Programs – DELWP through this project: Natural Temperate Communities Project is working with a and Parks Victoria Grasslands, Grassy Eucalypt Woodlands, range of partners and community groups Grey Box Grassy Woodlands and to continue to protect and enhance Several landscape scale pest plant Seasonal Herbaceous Wetlands. 625 ha of the 33,600 ha of existing and animal threat mitigation projects nationally listed ecological communities were undertaken across the region in A range of targeted extension and over the Glenelg Hopkins region. From 2017-18, including Glenelg Eden (weed monitoring activities across the project July 2013 to December 2014, the control), Glenelg Ark and Grampians Ark area are being delivered by DELWP Protection of Ecological Communities (pest animal control). These projects are and BirdLife Australia (BA). These Project successfully protected 350 ha funded by the Victorian Government, will reduce critical threats to, and of priority ecological community on the and led by Parks Victoria (Grampians Ark) enhance the condition, connectivity, VVP, and the remaining 275 ha will be and DELWP (Glenelg Eden and Ark). resilience and knowledge of, threatened protected through agreements between species and communities through the The longstanding Glenelg Ark project Glenelg Hopkins CMA and Trust for implementation of specific high priority was established in 2005 to assist with Nature. National Recovery Plan and Actions the protection of local populations of the for Biodiversity Conservation (ABC) The project area is primarily focused on Southern Brown Bandicoot, Long-nosed database actions. the Victorian Volcanic Plains (VVP) and Potoroo, and the Common Brushtail Possum in the far south west of the Major activities that are being undertaken Goldfields Bioregions, both of which are catchment. The project is a collaboration as part of this project include: regional, state and national priorities. There are four nationally threatened between DELWP and Parks Victoria and • weed control and monitoring of Linear Ecological Communities (ECs) that will be is the largest fox control project on public Reserves (DELWP); targeted through this project. land in south-west Victoria, operating • threatened flora monitoring (DELWP); across 90,000 ha.
37 OUR REGION – CATCHMENT CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT REPORT 2017-18
Overall each of the three monitored During 2017-18, 239 participants Greening Australia Projects native species has shown a significant were involved and engaged in project The ‘Increasing Critical Food Supply positive response to baiting. However, monitoring and capacity building for the Endangered South-Eastern Red- the response was not uniformly positive activities including the annual range- Tailed Black-Cockatoo’ project funded in all treatment areas or for all species. wide count, collection of sighting data, through the Australian Government’s Research undertaken by University of school presentations and attendance at 20 Million Trees Program and managed Melbourne and Arthur Rylah Institute is the Cavendish 'Red Gum Festival'. by Greening Australia, established currently investigating fox and feral cat Threat mitigation activities undertaken 272,250 trees greater than two metres densities over the project area and in the included locating and protecting at maturity across 1,079 hectares of Otway's. Glenelg Ark is part of a suite of new nests, providing input into fire Stringybark forest habitat in the Victorian landscape scale fox control projects in management, and strengthening local section of Habitat 141o to increase food Victoria, including Grampians Ark. planning laws to better protect critical supply for the nationally endangered Glenelg Eden is a strategic, landscape habitat. A significant highlight for the South-Eastern Red-Tailed Black- scale weed management project that project this year included the approval Cockatoo, as well as providing improved focuses on the detection and removal of Amendment C82 of the Glenelg habitat for the endangered Southern of high risk weeds that threaten the Planning Scheme – South eastern Brown Bandicoot and the vulnerable biodiversity values of the Far South Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo Habitat by Long-nosed Potoroo. West of Victoria. The project has been the Victorian Minister of Planning. The The ‘Reconnecting Budj Bim’ project operating for 10 years over an area that amendment, which has taken over four funded through the Australian comprises nearly 80,000 ha of public years to complete, has greatly improved Government’s 20 Million Trees Program land. In 2017-18, over 18,000 ha were the protection of critical habitat trees and managed by Greening Australia, treated on land managed by DELWP and (both feeding and nesting habitat) of the mixed indigenous ecological knowledge Parks Victoria. The Glenelg Eden project cockatoo across the entire range of the with leading-edge revegetation also implemented the Weed at Early sub-species in the Glenelg Shire. techniques to establish 30,000 trees Stages of Invasion protocols (WESI). This This year a record number of nests were greater than two metres at maturity program ranks all current infestations by found in the Glenelg Hopkins region. across 32 ha of Grassy Eucalypt feasibility of eradication. Of the 12 active nests confirmed, seven Woodlands of the Victorian Volcanic were new nests previously unknown Plain across the Budj Bim National Terrestrial Habitat to the recovery team. These new nests Heritage Landscape to improve will be protected from terrestrial ground A key RCS terrestrial habitat objective connectivity and habitat for the predators such as Brush-tailed Possums is for public land to be managed as the endangered Spotted-tailed Quoll and through collaring in the last week in core of resilient ecosystems. Regional Swift Parrot. June. Further, eleven supplementary next biolink projects undertaken in 2017-18 boxes have been installed on private have continued to focus on supporting Parks Victoria Projects land near Powers Creek, Casterton and resilient ecosystem management on Rennick. The boxes are based on a new A number of smaller pest plant and public land with buffer zones and design used in Western Australia for animal projects were delivered in the linkages. Activities have also focused on Carnaby’s Black-Cockatoos and will be Glenelg Hopkins region through the RCS actions that relate to protecting the monitored using camera traps over the Good Neighbour Program. These include condition of terrestrial habitat through coming breeding season. rabbit management at Narrawong revegetation and fencing and developing Coastal Reserve, polygala management in conservation covenants to protect areas The twenty-second annual count for the the Nelson State Park, pine control in the of high-value remnant vegetation. South-eastern Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo was held on Saturday May 5. Volunteer Bahgallah Bushland Reserve, and Wilkin Flora and Fauna Reserve and Cape Tulip BirdLife Australia Red-tailed participation was strong again with 79 and Mexican Feathergrass control in the Black-Cockatoo Monitoring people involved in the Glenelg Hopkins region alone. Of the 42 sites surveyed Tooloy Flora Reserve and Tooloy-Lake BirdLife Australia has continued to in Glenelg Hopkins CMA a total of 433 Mundi Wildlife reserve. implement high priority actions from birds were found, accounting for just The protection of stony rises woodland the draft national recovery plan for the over 51 per cent of the total number at Budj Bim National Park and Tyrendarra South-eastern Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo of birds recorded range-wide during Flora Reserve was undertaken through as part of the 2017-18 Red-tailed the survey (839 birds recorded across the monitoring and management of Black-Cockatoo Monitoring Project. the range). Most of the cockatoos were over-abundant koalas. The program is Actions have focused on monitoring the found in three large flocks near Rennick, supported by Budg Bim Council and population, mitigating threats, enhancing Mumbannar and Chetwynd. is undertaken to conserve and restore nesting habitat and building community Follow-up counts of large flocks significant vegetation. support across the range of the cockatoo identified through the annual survey in the Glenelg Hopkins region. are still underway and due for the completion at the end of June. Analysis of long-term flock count data has shown a declining number of females and juveniles in flocks over time, revealing poor breeding success since 2005. 38 OUR REGION – CATCHMENT CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT REPORT 2017-18
Victorian Government Biodiversity On-Ground Action Funding CASE STUDY The Victorian Government’s Biodiversity ABORIGINAL CULTURAL HERITAGE DAY On-ground Actions Program is in its second year of delivery. Approximately CHALLENGE: The Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Day was an opportunity for local $1.4 million of funding has been landholders and Traditional Owners to share their knowledge of native grassland allocated to four landscape scale management on the Victorian Volcanic Plains (VVP). threatened species projects within the APPROACH: The event held on “Salt Creek” property, Woorndoo and at region. These projects will address key Lake Bolac, increased participant’s awareness of the uses and values of threats to a range of species in the wetlands and grasslands of the VVP. The area was and is utilised by Aboriginal grasslands of the Victorian Volcanic Plan, people as a source of food, medicine and fibre with sites of spiritual and wetlands and woodlands of the Glenelg ceremonial significance. Plain, and coastal zone (Table 11). The ‘regional hub projects’ involve agencies John Clarke from Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation welcomed participants and organisations working together to to country and shared the significance of the volcanic plains to his people and address threats to a range of important Aboriginal lore. The Lake Bolac stone arrangement is an Aboriginal ceremonial native species in priority areas. Each site with basalt stones, arranged in two lines, which are said to resemble a giant project has received $300,000 funding eel. Lake Bolac was a traditional gathering place for Indigenous people before in Round 1 and is to be completed by white settlement and The Lake Bolac Eel Festival held on the foreshore each 30 June 2020. autumn continues to celebrate the importance of eels to Aboriginal people.
A second round of funding was received Bruce Pascoe, author of Dark Emu, shared his research about land management in 2017-18, with $100,000 allocated in Australia, including the VVP, prior to colonisation. He stressed the permanent to further pine wildling control in Wilkin nature of housing, the role of agriculture and value and uses of plants ‘cropped’ State Forest and $105,000 for weed by Aboriginal people on the VVP. management in the Glenelg Estuary and Discovery Bay Coastal Park. RESULTS: The event generated much interest amongst participants and increased awareness of ceremonial sites and improved understanding of the type of land management practiced by Aboriginal people prior to settlement.
PARTNERS: Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation and landholders and community groups. The project was funded by Australian Government National Landcare Program.
Table 11: Regional Hub Projects
Lead Funding Project Locality Partners Organisation Received DELWP Barwon South West, Corangamite CMA, Glenelg Hopkins Improving the quality and CMA, Parks Victoria, Corangamite connectedness of grassland DELWP Woorndoo-Dundonnell Round 1: $300,000 Shire, Moyne Shire, ARTC, VicRoads, communities on the La Trobe University, Royal Botanic Victorian Volcanic Plain Gardens, Nargundy Pty Ltd Tiverton, Trust For Nature
Glenelg Shire, Nature Glenelg Glenelg Estuary and Glenelg Hopkins Glenelg Estuary and Round 1: $300,000 Trust, Nelson Coastcare, Greening Discovery Bay Weed Control CMA Discovery Bay Coastal Park Round 2: $100,000 Australia, Parks Victoria, DELWP Barwon South West, GHCMA
Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Birdlife Threatened species habitat Nature Glenelg Round 1: $300,000 Australia, RTBC Recovery Team, restoration in the Wilkin Wilkin Trust Round 2: $105,000 Greening Australia, Parks Victoria, Woodlands and Wetlands DELWP
Habitat restoration for Nature Glenelg Parks Victoria, Glenelg Hopkins threatened species of Glenelg Plain Round 1: $300,000 Trust CMA, DELWP, Trust for Nature wetlands in the Glenelg Plain
39 OUR REGION – CATCHMENT CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT REPORT 2017-18
3.4 LAND The Australian National University has Average soil water availability was the assessed exposed soil nationally since second highest recorded in the region Condition Statement 2000. The assessment is undertaken since 2000 (Figure 11). using MODIS satellite imagery that The Land theme reports on the There were no additions to the public captures images of the earth’s surface management of land (private and public) reserve system within the Glenelg every eight days over a 12-month period within the Glenelg Hopkins region. Hopkins region in 2017-18 (Table 12). to analyse the percentage of ground An additional 21.9 ha was placed under not covered by living or dead plant Regional context conservation covenant during 2017-18, material.xxvi The percentage of exposed and 146 landholder management The Glenelg Hopkins region is recognised soil across the Glenelg Hopkins region agreements were established over as having some of the most fertile and for 2016 is shown in Figure 10. 6,935 ha. As of 30 June 2018, 4,123 ha productive soils in Australia.xxii With more The data indicates that the percentage of land within the Glenelg Hopkins region than 80 per cent of the region dedicated area of exposed soil across the Glenelg was under Trust for Nature covenants to agricultural production, the protection Hopkins region has varied marginally (perpetual agreements). The purpose and enhancement of the region’s soil on an annualised basis, with a slight of these covenants is to permanently is clearly linked to regional prosperity decrease experienced between 2015 conserve and protect the natural, cultural and fundamental to ongoing sustainable and 2016 (Figure 10). or scientific values of the land. food and fibre production.xxiii In 2016- 17 the region was rated as the highest agricultural production region in Victoria Figure 10: Percentage of exposed soil in the Glenelg Hopkins region 2010-2017 and 4th highest in Australia, producing (Source: Australia’s Environment Explorer 2017, developed by the Australian National agricultural commodities with a gross University – Fenner School of the Environment and Society, www.ausenv.online) value of $2,184 million.xxiv
Substantial changes in land use have 12 occurred in the region since the early
1990s. While broad acre grazing is still 10 prominent, there have been significant increases in the area of land used 8 for dairying, cropping and blue gum 6 plantations.
Although there are large sections of high conservation value native vegetation 2 secured in parks and reserves, other soil e posed of Percentage vegetation is often fragmented,
0 2000 2001 2002 2003 200 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 201 2015 2016 2017 particularly on private land. Intact areas of native vegetation on private land are of particular importance, as they often EAR contain threatened ecological vegetation communities. There has been a long history of programs undertaken across Figure 11: Average soil water availability in the Glenelg Hopkins region 2000–2017 the region to increase the area of land Average amount of water stored in the soil profile during the year as estimated by the managed for conservation through OzWALD model-data fusion system. (Source: Australia’s Environment Explorer 2017, landholder management agreements developed by the Australian National University – Fenner School of the Environment and and covenants. Society, www.ausenv.online)
Land benchmark – Ground 500 cover and land managed 50 for conservation 00 Ground cover can provide an indicator 350 of soil health.xxv Maintenance of ground 300 cover is essential for sustainable 250 production and helps protect soils from mm 200 erosion. Soil with a low percentage of 150 groundcover is more susceptible to wind 100 and water erosion. Ground cover also 50 plays an important role in maintaining
0 2000 2001 2002 2003 200 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 201 2015 2016 2017 biodiversity and nutrient cycling.
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40 OUR REGION – CATCHMENT CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT REPORT 2017-18
Table 12: Land managed for conservation in the Glenelg Hopkins region
Protection type Number/Area covered Additional area this year
National Parks* 207,788 ha 0
State Parks* 31,320 ha 0
Other public land*# 243,771 ha 0
Trust for Nature conservation covenant 4,123 ha 21.87 ha
573 agreements, 18,987 ha Landholder agreements 146 agreements, 6,935 ha (output recorded since 2013-14)
* Data from Public Lands Management spatial dataset. # “Other public land” includes Coastal Reserves, Natural Catchment Areas, Forest Park, Marine Sanctuaries, Natural Features Reserves, Nature Conservation Reserves, NPA Schedule 3 Other Parks, Proposed National Parks Act, Regional Parks, State Forests.
Annual land assessment 2017-18
Annual Rating Key Evidence Assessment
Neutral A largely neutral state, where events during • Large grass fires at Garvoc, Gazette-Hawkesdale and Terang. the year may have been significant but are • No major erosion events reported on farmland. within expected variation and will have little impact in the longer term. • Annual average ground cover rates remained stable. • Significant long-term challenges remain in managing the impact of land use on waterway health and managing soil health at the farm scale.
Reason for assessment: • There remain significant threats to MANAGEMENT REPORT the long-term productivity of soils • Around 14,300 ha in the Glenelg in the region from historical land KEY INITIATIVES Hopkins CMA region were burnt in management practices that have led AND ACHIEVEMENTS the Saint Patrick’s Day fires (17 March to widespread removal of indigenous 2018), including 6,608 ha at Terang, NLP Sustainable vegetation and vulnerability due to 4,031 at Garvoc, and 3,665 ha at pest plants and animal infestations. Agriculture Project Gazette-Hawkesdale. Grassfires From time to time, these changes This project was supported through spread rapidly, resulting in significant still result in localised increases in funding from the Australian Government’s damage to farmland and peat fires wind and water erosion, dryland National Landcare Program. The project at Cobrico.xxvii salinity, soil acidification, decline of concluded on 30 June 2018. The • No major erosion events were soil structure and loss of soil organic project aimed to support farmers to reported on farmland. carbon. implement land management practices to improve soil condition, increase or • During 2017, there was an average • There have been no significant maintain production and protect the of 92 per cent ground cover. The changes in land tenure through the natural resource base. The project estimated percentage of exposed designation of parks and reserves. worked closely with landholders and was soils for the region decreased in • Trust for Nature covenants (perpetual primarily delivered through partnerships 2017 to 8 per cent. Exposed soil agreements) were established over with industry, government agencies and was estimated to average 8 per cent 21.9 ha in 2017-18 (542.3 ha in community-based organisations. over the summer period (minimum 2016-17, 135 ha in 2015-16, 75 ha groundcover over this period was in 2014-15, and 104 ha in 2013- The implementation of the NLP 90.61 per cent).xxviii 14). The lower number of covenants Sustainable Agriculture project in was due to it being the final year of 2017-18 enabled 25 capacity building delivery for the National Landcare events to be held at geographically Program. diverse locations across the catchment. Events attracted an audience of 552 land managers, representing some 194 farm entities.
41 OUR REGION – CATCHMENT CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT REPORT 2017-18
Key achievements for 2017-18 are Land use change was monitored across • 9th Annual Perennial Pasture System summarised below. the catchment through a biannual conference, an event historically • Partnerships for project planning land-use transect undertaken in attended by over 100 people focusing and delivery were established with partnership with Agriculture Victoria. on all aspects of sustainable profitable Southern Farming Systems; Grassland Key observations and conclusions are farming systems; summarised below. Society of Southern Australia, • the continuation of the integrated Western District branch; Agriculture • The area under pasture increased by pest management (IPM) Victoria; WestVic Dairy; Victorian four per cent of paddocks sampled, by demonstration sites and associated No-Till Farmers Association; Basalt- area, from 2017 to 2018. The biggest field-based activities undertaken in To-Bay Landcare Network and change was between Westmere and collaboration with Upper Hopkins Deakin University. Caramut with a 13 per cent increase Land Management Group and the • More than 200 farmers attended a by number of paddocks. The area Panyyabyr Landcare Group; under cropping decreased by ‘Converting Blue Gums to Pastures • support for field-based study tours four per cent by area over the same Day’ at Cavendish in July 2017. hosted by the Perennial Pasture period. Strong livestock and wool Systems Group, Girls in Grass Group, • 15 young farmers from 11 farm prices appear to be encouraging a Tarragal Landcare Group and the entities participated in the ‘Pasture return to more traditional grazing Southwest Coast Action Network; Tech’ pilot project to utilise smart farm dominant practices. digital and spatial technologies on • cropping seminars hosted in their farms to improve monitoring of • Stubble removal practices increased conjunction with Agriculture Victoria pastures and sustainably manage soil. by seven per cent from 2017 mostly due to an increase in burning. High including international guest speakers; • 91 farmers attended a total of eight 2017 spring rainfall may have resulted • biochar demonstrations and field workshops tailored to provide women in an increase in stubble loads. days, hosted by Tarragal Landcare on farms with the opportunity to Without equipment to manage high Group; and improve knowledge of agriculture stubble loads (disc-seeder), burning and build a support network. Topics is the most cost-effective option of • community festivals such as the included soil and climate, crop stubble removal for farmers. “Celebrating Red Gums” festival that production, pasture production and took place at Cavendish between the livestock production. NLP Regional Landcare 13th to 15th of April 2018. • 29 farmers from 15 farm businesses Facilitator Project attended a three-day Holistic Glenelg Hopkins Land The Glenelg Hopkins Regional Landcare Management training session. Follow- Suitability Project Facilitator (RLF) is funded by the up farm visits at Balmoral, Crossroads Australian Government through the The Glenelg Hopkins Region Land and Stoneleigh were attended by 63 National Landcare Program. The RLF Suitability Project is a partnership farmers and farm service providers. supports individuals, Landcare and between Glenelg Hopkins CMA, • 13 dairy farmers completed Dairy production groups to adopt sustainable Southern Grampians Shire Council Australia’s Fert$mart program, farm and land management practices by: and Deakin University (Centre increasing nutrient use efficiency and for Regional and Rural Futures) to • promoting the Landcare ethic and reducing risk of farm nutrient loss model land suitability for a selected sustainable agricultural practices; contaminating ground and surface set of agricultural and horticultural water resources. • assisting with funding applications, commodities across the catchment membership and resources; under a changing climate. Commodities • 11 farmers impacted by the Terang have been modelled for suitability under and Garvoc fires at Cobrico Swamp • supporting the development, delivery, current and predicted climatic conditions and Lake Elingamite, improved monitoring and evaluation of regional up to the year 2070. The project is management of fire affected peat soils. plans; and contributing to the following RCS • 25 farmers representing 14 farm • building and strengthening action: ‘’investigate opportunities for soil entities attended a seminar to learn partnerships between regional capability mapping under different land the results of a three-year farm stakeholders. management practices”. demonstration trial to investigate Project activities supported by the RLF nitrogen use efficacy opportunities Commodity reports (Pastures, Broadacre project in 2017-18 included: on dairy farms. Crops and Horticulture) have been • plant tissue testing and basic animal compiled that explore the possible • 50 farmers and farm service providers health requirements workshops, implications of climate change on attended a workshop and paddock undertaken in conjunction with South agriculture and land use in the region. walk to learn how strategic use of West Prime Lamb Group; farm shelter belts and tree blocks can improve production and profit on • perennial pasture sustainability field broadacre grazing operations. days, undertaken in collaboration with Perennial Pasture Systems Group based in Ararat;
42 OUR REGION – CATCHMENT CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT REPORT 2017-18
The final component of the study will involve conducting an environmental CASE STUDY and socio-economic analysis of opportunities for the region, arising LIFE AFTER BLUE GUMS from a changing climate with respect to CHALLENGE: Significant areas of blue gum plantations in Victoria are being sustainable agricultural development and harvested and the land reverted to pasture or cropping. The issue is most environmental management. The project prevalent in the Glenelg Hopkins NRM region. Restoration of this land to is being led by Deakin University and has agriculture presents many NRM challenges. Without adequate assessment of land been supported through funding from condition and the best conversion method, the long-term implications on resource the Australian Government's National condition, productivity and profitability have the potential to be significant. Landcare Program, Southern Grampians Shire Council and Deakin University. APPROACH: A community engagement event aimed at increasing knowledge and awareness of new and innovative land use conversion practices that have Pasture Tech – Sustainable evolved over the past five years since a similar event was held in 2014 (hosted by Farm Management Using Smart Grasslands Society of Southern Australia). Farming Technologies RESULTS: Over 200 community members attended the event which included: Glenelg Hopkins CMA and the Grasslands Society of Southern Australia • Presentations of case studies by farmers and stakeholders who have (Western District Branch) supported the undertaken conversion of Blue Gum Plantation Land back to pastures. establishment of Pasture Tech – a group Presenters provided a balanced perspective on the economic, environmental of 15 young farmers with a common and financial benefits/challenges of undertaking reclamation. interest in road testing new technology • An on-farm visit to a local farm recently converted back to pasture and which could assist them in making more cropping. informed decisions for sustainable management. With participants from The event demonstrated the high level of interest from regional farmers in across South West Victoria, the agreed reverting properties with harvested blue gum plantations to pasture or cropping. goal of the group was to ground truth KEY PARTNERS: Grasslands Society of Sothern Australia (Western District commercial technology which can help Branch), Glenelg Hopkins CMA. make practical and strategic decisions on farm.
Over the past 12 months the group A total of 14,127 fox scalps were Agriculture Victoria and Glenelg Hopkins focused on two technologies: collected at the Hamilton and CMA undertook a collaborative project 1) measuring and estimating pasture Warrnambool collection centres during to help respond to the unusual recovery growth and availability using digital 2017-18, adding to a total of 98,922 needed following the peat fires at and spatial technology in conjunction since 2011. Cobrico Swamp and Lake Elingamite with best practice infield methods and in March 2018. The SW Fire Complex Agriculture Victoria’s extension focus in – ‘Management of Fire Affected Peat 2) use of precision agriculture the Glenelg Hopkins region for 2017-18 Soils’ project investigated changes to and application of variable rate was on planning for water security. the chemical, physical and biological technologies on pastures. Meeting Three water planning sessions have been characteristics of these soils as a result four times a year the group has delivered to 72 farmers responsible for of fire. Peat fires, also known as ‘soil worked closely with leading pasture the management of 47,070 ha of land. consuming fires,’ are notoriously hard consultants, spatial technology Most workshop participants indicated to extinguish due to the combustible providers and researchers to assess that they would make changes to their nature of peat material that smoulders, the on-farm application of new and practices as a result of involvement in destroying the organic-matter rich soil evolving technologies in these areas. these workshops. and reducing air quality. A pasture cropping demonstration site Agriculture Victoria projects Following an information gathering has been running in the Glenelg Hopkins phase to identify impacts and scope Agriculture Victoria undertakes property region for four years. Agriculture Victoria management options, the project inspections to support community led recorded eight properties undertaking enabled Agriculture Victoria staff action on state-wide priority established the same techniques as a result of their to develop individual rehabilitation pests and to protect high value catchment involvement in the demonstration. plans for affected farmers. Working in assets. Agriculture Victoria Biodiversity The area covered by these properties collaboration with multiple agencies, Officers inspected 34,003 ha of land in is 7,600 ha. the Glenelg Hopkins region in 2017-18 Agriculture Victoria, assisted land to facilitate the management of declared managers to implement sustainable invasive plants and pest animals. land management practices to address individual soil management issues.
43 OUR REGION – CATCHMENT CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT REPORT 2017-18
3.5 THE GLENELG The Glenelg Hopkins region consists of Coastal vegetation is fragmented, HOPKINS COAST 220 km of coastline in varying degrees with the larger areas of remnant of condition, which is subject to coastal vegetation found within the parks and Condition Statement erosion, sea level rise and flooding. With reserve system, in areas such as Lower The Coast theme reports on the condition a changing climate, these impacts will Glenelg National Park, Discovery Bay of marine and coastal environments be exacerbated with increases in wind Coastal Park, Mt Clay State Forest within the Glenelg Hopkins region. speed, storm intensity and frequency, and Narrawong Flora Reserve, Mount as well as changes in rainfall intensity Richmond National Park, Bats Ridge xxix Regional context and frequency. Wildlife Reserve, and Cape Nelson State Park. The Glenelg Hopkins coastal zone Coasts are the interface between marine is shown in Figure 12. The coastal Marine National Parks and sanctuaries and terrestrial environments. They zone incorporates a diverse range recognise and protect important marine include beaches, cliffs, intertidal zones, of ecosystems, and provides critical habitats and species, natural features, coastal wetlands, marshes, mangroves, habitat for threatened species such as cultural heritage and aesthetic values. lagoons, coastal floodplain forests and the Orange-bellied Parrot and Hooded Areas formally recognised within the the estuarine portions of waterways. Plover, as well as important shorebird region include the Discovery Bay Marine sites. This zone includes three Important National Park near Portland and the Bird Areas (IBA): (sites of global bird Merri Marine Sanctuary near the mouth conservation importance) – Yambuk of the Merri estuary. In addition, special Lakes Complex IBA, Port Fairy to management areas have been identified Warrnambool IBA and Discovery Bay – at Cape Bridgewater, Lawrence Rocks, Piccaninnie Ponds IBA. Portland Bay, Deen Maar Island and Logans Beach.
Figure 12: Extent of parks and reserves in the coastal zone
44 OUR REGION – CATCHMENT CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT REPORT 2017-18
Annual coasts assessment 2017-18
Annual
Rating Key Evidence Assessment Concerned A level of concern that significant events • With the exception of land protected within parks and reserves, the during the year may have an adverse impact coastal environment remains under significant pressure from agriculture, in the longer term. and development near urban centres. • Coastal areas are experiencing increases in population and tourism activity. Pollution, erosion and loss of coastal habitat are major threats. • Coastal settlement infrastructure located in low-lying areas within the region are already experiencing occasional inundation. • The distribution and extent of coastal weed infestations is threatening some high value coastal areas.
Coast benchmark – level of Index of Estuary Condition Reasons for assessment: protection for coasts, Index of (IEC), and Index of Wetland • With the exception of land protected Wetland Condition, Index of Condition (IWC) within parks and reserves, the coastal Estuary Condition The condition of the region’s wetlands environment remains under significant and estuaries varies significantly along pressure from agriculture, and Level of Protection for Coasts the coast. The Glenelg River Estuary development near urban centres. Figure 12 shows the extent of land and Discovery Bay Wetland Complex • Coastal areas are experiencing within the coastal zone which is encompass freshwater wetlands, increases in population and tourism managed for environmental protection estuary, beach and dune systems that activity. Pollution, erosion and loss of through parks and reserves. This equates are in excellent condition.xxxi Wetlands coastal habitat are major threats. to approximately 50,463 ha. that retain water on at least a semi- • Coastal settlements located in permanent basis are generally in good Private land is mostly residential near low-lying areas within the region condition, and estuaries are in moderate townships, or utilised for agriculture. are already experiencing occasional to good condition based on the results of Where areas of the coastline are inundation (e.g. Port Fairy). under high demand and subject to the recent IEC trial. Further information • Wetlands that retain water on at development pressures, coastal habitats on regional IEC and IWC results is least a semi-permanent basis are tend to gradually fragment or are lost.xxx provided in the Waterways section of this report. generally in good condition. A recent A key challenge is to maintain a healthy IEC trial indicated that estuaries are in Wetlands on private land are often and diverse coastal ecosystem that moderate to good condition. exhibits connectivity on a landscape smaller in size and are more fragmented. • The status of rare and threatened scale, particularly where the coast is in Many are open to stock access and coastal orchids monitored by DELWP high demand or under threat from the can become sinks for agricultural in 2017-18 as part of the NLP Coastal implications of climate change. drainage and runoff. Coastal residential development has impacted several areas Communities Program, is that most of coastal wetlands through drainage, monitored orchid populations were in conversion and exposure to recreational a stable condition. use. They are also particularly vulnerable • A range of weeds are impacting high to climate change impacts such as value coastal remnant vegetation inundation from rising sea levels and in areas such as Glenelg estuary, storm surges. Discovery Bay Coastal Park and Budj Bim Landscape. In addition, coastal areas adjacent to townships such as Warrnambool and Port Fairy have high level of weed infestations. Of concern is the spread of Italian Buckthorn, Polygala, Spiny Rush and Coastal Wattle. • The intensity and regularity of ocean swell and storm events appears to be increasing resulting in erosion of beaches and dunes. Further monitoring is required to verify this observation.
45 OUR REGION – CATCHMENT CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT REPORT 2017-18
MANAGEMENT REPORT On-ground works have included: NLP Coastal Connections Project KEY INITIATIVES • 4.3 km of woody weed control in the This project is managed by Glenelg AND ACHIEVEMENTS Fitzroy Estuary and Darlot Creek Hopkins CMA, through funding from areas; the Australian Government’s National VWPIF Coastal Works Program Landcare Program. Currently in its fifth • 1.7 km of fencing; and final year, the Coastal Connections This four-year, Victorian Government • 9.7 ha of woody weed control; project is working with community funded program aims to improve and groups and private land managers to maintain the region’s estuaries and • establishment of five landholder protect and restore coastal, estuarine coastal waterways on the Budj Bim management agreements covering and wetland habitat. This includes landscape by supporting: 61.5 ha; sharing knowledge and skills, protecting • estuary management including • 41 property assessments covering and restoring habitats, and undertaking estuary opening decisions; 4,593 ha; conservation management of these valuable coastal areas. • estuary water monitoring including • 11 engagement events covering community involvement in 170 participants; and Coastal habitat is protected through Estuary Watch; • 7 communications and publications multiple year conservation management agreements with private landholders • engagement of landholders, including delivered. and permanent protection under Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners The coastal community engagement Conservation Covenants with Trust Group, to develop a Waterway Action activity has included a new initiative with for Nature. Coastal community groups Plan for the Budj Bim Landscape; and local government agencies known as the and private landholders are supported • on-ground works on the Fitzroy River ‘Clean Oceans Collective’. This initiative through grants for activities that focus estuary, Darlot Creek and associated aims to reduce marine and riverine on protection and rehabilitation of wetlands. litter through education, awareness and endangered coastal habitat, including community participation. stock exclusion, weed and pest control. The main area of focus for this program The project also provides the opportunity in 2017-18 has been implementation The Coastal Works Project has delivered for Indigenous employment and to build of Stage 1 of the Budj Bim Landscape the following outputs in addition of the Indigenous skills in natural resource Waterway Action Plan and commencing estuary entrance management program: management. engagement of landholders and • 18 water quality assessments Traditional Owners to develop Stage 2. throughout the regions estuaries; Key achievements for 2017-18 include: • 292 ha of stock exclusion, weed • 6 engagement events covering and pest control on high value 642 participants; and coastal land; • 6 communications and publications • on-title permanent protection of delivered. 82 ha of remnant coastal habitat through Conservation Covenants (Trust for Nature); • establishment of over 50 ha of new Conservation Covenants; • protection of endangered plants including Mellblom’s Spider-orchid, Coast Dandelion, Limestone Spider- orchid, Maroon Leek-orchid and Metallic Sun-orchid; • 7 community groups supported to deliver on-ground works; and • two Indigenous staff supported.
46 OUR REGION – CATCHMENT CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT REPORT 2017-18
Ramsar Nomination CASE STUDY The Glenelg Estuary and Discovery Bay Wetland Ramsar site was successfully MERRI RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT nominated as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar CHALLENGE: The Merri Restoration Project aims to transform the Merri River Convention in 2018-19. A coordination and estuary through Warrnambool to create a recreational corridor and an committee has been established to ecologically-healthy river. Prior to the project the river was bordered by mostly oversee the development and delivery of weed-infested unused land or highly-grazed pasture, with little in-stream wood, key documents such as, the Monitoring, which is important for fish habitat. In addition to the CMA, Warrnambool Evaluation, Reporting and Improvement City Council (WCC), seven community groups and several agencies were (MERI) Plan and Implementation Plan. independently undertaking, or planning to undertake, projects along the river. The Coordinating Committee comprises representatives from Parks Victoria, APPROACH: Glenelg Hopkins CMA recognised that the transformation of DELWP, Gunditj Mirring Traditional the river could not be achieved alone and facilitated the establishment of an Owners Aboriginal Corporation and 'Alliance' of partners to work towards a common goal of improved environmental, Glenelg Hopkins CMA. The committee cultural and recreational values. The Alliance collated the work currently being also facilitates consultation with undertaken or planned, created a vision of what could be achieved on the river community members. and made a commitment to work together to make the vision a reality. An overall plan for a section of the river was developed.
Budj Bim Cultural Landscape The CMA Merri River Restoration Project supports community groups and – nomination for UNESCO private landholders, with land adjacent to the river, to undertake weed and World Heritage revegetation works. The CMA also works with land developers of new residential estates along the river to improve the environmental values and recreational The Budj Bim Cultural Landscape was opportunities for residents. These activities are additional to those required by placed on Australia’s World Heritage the WCC. The vision for a restored Merri River through Warrnambool, has been Tentative List in January 2017 and quickly adopted into the strategic planning of partnering organisations. Notably, its nomination formally accepted for the Alliance and the transformation of the river into a new green corridor were assessment by the World Heritage heavily referenced in Warrnambool City Council’s W2040 planning process. Centre in March 2018. Part of this area occurs within the coastal zone. RESULTS: The Merri River Restoration Project makes a substantial contribution to the vision of the Alliance. To date, the project has improved the condition of If successful, it will be the first Australian 3.8 km of riverbank. On-ground works have focused on clearing woody weeds place to be World Heritage listed such as willows and revegetating areas of riverbank with 12,880 native plants. exclusively for its cultural heritage values. The Budj Bim Cultural Landscape Five community groups, two government agencies, four private landholders and contains evidence of one of the world’s four land developers have been involved in the planning and delivery of riparian largest and oldest aquaculture systems, works across the project area. The riparian improvements supported through dating to about 6,600 years ago.xxxii the Merri River Restoration Project are complemented by instream habitat restoration projects funded through crowdfunding and Australian Government as well as the contributions of the partners.
There was extensive community consultation through mail and community drop- in afternoons at different locations along the river. Artists impressions of the restoration sites in 5 and 10 years were particularly valuable to provide a vision of the area and reassure community members concerned about bare river banks following the removal of willows and other woody weeds. The following email was received after a community drop-in session to capture community ideas.
"It's wonderful to see all the work that has been done. At last we can enjoy the river like we used to. Last night we noticed people going down to the river with a kayak and canoe so many thanks for cleaning the area up. We live next door to the playground and when our kids come home for Christmas we'll be able to take the grandkids down to the river and maybe go fishing like we used to."– Warrnambool resident.
KEY PARTNERS: Merri River Alliance Partners: Warrnambool City Council, Wannon Water, Warrnambool Coastcare Land Care Group (and subsidiary groups Friends of Platypus Park and Friends of Wollaston), Fisheries Victoria, Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation, Mad for the Merri community group, Fishcare, and Ozfish. Merri River Restoration Project Partners: Community groups, private landholders, land developers. The project is funded by EC4 Victorian State Government.
47 OUR REGION – CATCHMENT CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT REPORT 2017-18
4.0 REGIONAL ACTIONS AND ACHIEVEMENTS REPORTING
4.1 KEY FOCUS AREAS 4.1.1 Engage Victoria’s Figure 14 shows the number of formal partnerships established, maintained or Each year the ten Victorian CMAs communities in natural modified that provide an opportunity contribute to a state-wide actions and resource management to engage with government, industry achievements report, which highlights a This key focus area contributes directly and the community; and includes selection of outputs aligned with three to goal one of Our Catchments, Our partnerships with industry bodies, key focus areas: Communities “Effective community community groups, government 1. Engage Victoria’s communities in engagement in catchment management”, agencies or individuals to support local natural resource management. and reports on a selection of outputs in action. Figure 15 shows the number of the “planning and regulation” standard publications developed and disseminated 2. Protect and improve the output class. These outputs contribute to keep stakeholders and the broader environmental condition of Victoria’s to collaboration, skills and awareness community informed. waterways, land and biodiversity. outcomes.
3. Provide good governance and Figure 13 shows the number of leadership. participants at engagement events, such The Glenelg Hopkins regional as field days, presentations, training or contribution to these focus areas is workshops, which are designed to raise shown below, as well as trend data. or improve skills or increase collaboration between communities and organisations.
Figure 13: Number of participants at engagement events Figure 15: Number of publications established, maintained or modified (including fact sheets, media releases, newsletters, reports, websites, television and social media)
6,200 250 6,000 200 5,800
5,600 150
5, 00 umber 100 5,200 Number of participants of Number 50 5,000
,800 0 2015 16 2016 17 2017 18 2015 16 2016 17 2017 18 EAR EAR
Figure 14: Number of formal partnerships established, Figure 16: Number of waterways structures installed or modified maintained or modified
60 25
50 20 0 15 30 umber umber 10 20
5 10
0 0 2015 16 2016 17 2017 18 2015 16 2016 17 2017 18 EAR EAR
5. 2013-14 figures only captured outputs related to Victorian Government investment. Subsequent years included Victorian Government and Australian Government funded outputs.
48 OUR REGION – CATCHMENT CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT REPORT 2017-18
4.1.2 Protect and improve These outputs contribute to The number of waterway structures the environmental condition management outcomes relating to: that were installed or modified, for the period 2014-15 to 2016-17, is shown of Victoria’s waterways, land • productivity, soil properties and in Figure 16. This output includes the and biodiversity soil stability; construction of fishways, rock chutes, This key focus area reports on a selection • species recovery, species control and flow regulators. of standard outputs in the following and habitat availability; Figure 17 shows the area of vegetation classes: structural works, environment • amenity; established, modified or maintained, and works and management services. • vegetation extent, structure and includes activities such as direct seeding, diversity; planting, thinning and mulching. The area • water quality, environmental water, of land on which pest animal control and groundwater; weed control has been undertaken over the past four years is shown in Figure 18 • cultural heritage; and and Figure 19 respectively. • extreme event preparedness. Figure 20 indicates the area of land on which grazing regime change has occurred, such as controlling of access in line with best practice, or removal of livestock.
Figure 17: Area of vegetation established, modified or Figure 19: Area of weed control (ha) (gross area over which maintained (ha) (includes direct seeding, planting, mulching, weeds were controlled by killing, removing or restricting them) guarding and thinning)
1,000 10,000 9,000 800 8,000 7,000 600 6,000 5,000 Area (ha Area Area (ha Area 00 ,000 3,000 200 2,000 1,000 0 0 2015 16 2016 17 2017 18 2015 16 2016 17 2017 18 EAR EAR
Figure 18: Area of pest animal control (ha) (gross area over Figure 20: Area of grazing regime change (ha) (the area over which pest animals were controlled by killing, removing or which grazing by livestock has been established, maintained, restricting them) modified or removed)
0,000 25 35,000 20 30,000
25,000 15 20,000 Area (ha Area Area (ha Area 15,000 10 10,000 5 5,000 0 0 2015 16 2016 17 2017 18 2015 16 2016 17 2017 18 EAR EAR
49 OUR REGION – CATCHMENT CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT REPORT 2017-18
4.1.3 Provide good governance 4.1 REGIONAL OUTPUT • Weed control - higher than and leadership ACHIEVEMENTS anticipated weed control was delivered through both State and Table 13 presents the total outputs This focus area reports on a selection Federally funded projects, particularly achieved for 2017-18. A number of of standard outputs in the “planning the NLP funded Threatened Species output targets have been exceeded and and regulation” standard output class. and Communities Project, the an explanation for the more substantial These outputs contribute to outcomes VEPP Habitat Tender project, and variations, is provided as follows: relating to: governance; skills, awareness Biodiversity On-ground Action and collaboration; cultural heritage; and • Water storage – no troughs were projects including Lower Glenelg- vegetation structure and diversity, and initially anticipated for the NLP Discovery Bay Weed Management available habitat. funded stewardship program. and Wilken Pine Wildling Control. This program funded 18 troughs. • Agricultural practices – delivery • Pest animal control – the state funded against this output was achieved Our Catchments Our Communities through the NLP funded Sustainable project has been varied to incorporate Agriculture project. In 2017-18 the approximately 32,000 ha of fox target was exceeded due to large control per year. farm sizes which was not anticipated during the project’s design. • Engagement events – the number of people attending events was higher than anticipated.
Figure 21: Number of approvals and advice provided (records the Figure 23: Number of agreements developed (agreements number of decisions made in regard to permits, licences, leases developed/reviewed in relation to management of a specific and planning referrals, as well as advice provided to another location. Includes agreements attached to title, legal agency or individual) conservation covenants or agreements placed on the property title for land parcel)
330 250
325 200 320 150 315 umber umber 100 310
50 305
300 0 2015 16 2016 17 2017 18 2015 16 2016 17 2017 18 EAR EAR
Figure 22: Number of site based or landscape scale assessments Figure 24: Number of plans or strategies developed (includes (includes social, land, water and biodiversity assessments and can engagement, property, management plans, and strategies and include monitoring activities to ensure compliance with policy and should be for a defined location) regulation and new and emerging weeds and pest animals)
700 60
600 50 500 0 00 30 umber umber 300 20 200
100 10
0 0 2015 16 2016 17 2017 18 2015 16 2016 17 2017 18 EAR EAR
50 OUR REGION – CATCHMENT CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT REPORT 2017-18
Table 13: Actions and Achievements - Glenelg Hopkins CMA output reporting for 2017-18
Actual Output Target State Commonwealth Other Total Structural works
1.1 Channel (km)
1.2 Water storage (no.) 11 12 18 30
1.3 Pump (no.) 7 2 2
1.4 Irrigation structure (ha)
1.5 Waterway structure (no.) 2 8 15 23
1.6 Terrestrial structure (no.)
1.7 Terrestrial feature (no.)
1.8 Monitoring structure (no.) 50 41 41
1.9 Fence (km) 78 79 40 118
1.10 Visitor facility (no.)
1.11 Road (km) 1
1.12 Crossing (no.) 1 1 1
Environmental works
2.1 Vegetation (ha) 184 319 1 320
2.2 Weed control (ha) 2,341 1,400 4,234 5,635
2.3 Pest animal control (ha) 32,221 32,901 863 33,764
2.4 Over-abundant wildlife control
2.5 Threatened species response (no.) 4 4
2.6 Emergency species response (no.)
2.7 Soil treatment (ha)
2.8 Earth works (no.) 1 11 12
2.9 Rubbish removal (ha)
Management services
3.1 Grazing (ha) 1,064 94 1,164 1,258
3.2 Agricultural practices (ha) 6,000 19,434 19,434
3.3 Water (no.) 11 12
3.4 Fire regime (no.) 11 6 6
Planning and regulation
4.1 Approval and advice (no.) 352 312 312
4.2 Management agreement (no.) 105 80 67 147
4.3 Assessment (no.) 358 462 134 596
4.4 Engagement event (no. participants) 2,456 2,699 2,586 5,285
4.5 Partnerships (no.) 56 28 28
4.6 Plan (no.) 52 13 42 55
4.7 Publication (no.) 145 89 25 114
4.8 Information management system (no.) 10 7 2 9
51 OUR REGION – CATCHMENT CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT REPORT 2017-18
4.3 REGIONAL DELIVERY OF PROJECTS Figure 25 details project highlights, including partner led projects, for the 2017-18 year.
Pasture Cropping Demonstrations: Agriculture Victoria Eastern Barred Bandicoot Icon Species project: This project has been running demonstrations over four years. Eight contributed to 100 ha of pest weed and animal control at Hamilton properties, covering 7,600 ha, have adopted techniques. Parklands and preparation of Tiverton for reintroduction of EBBs.
Wilken Pine Wildling Control: Two projects, involving Nature Glenelg Trust and Conservation Volunteers Australia, undertaking Pine Wildling control to protect key feeding areas of the Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo.
Increasing Critical Food Supply for the Endangered SE Red-tailed Black-Cockatool: Greening Australia project establishing 272,250 trees across Stringybark forest habitat in the Victorian section of Habitat 141º to increase food supply for the SE Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo.
Agriculture Victoria Fox Bounty: 14,127 fox scalps collected from Hamilton and Warrnambool collection centres.
Red-tailed Black-Cockatoo Monitoring Project: BirdLife Australia implemented high priority actions from the draft National Recovery Plan. Actions focused on population monitoring, mitigating threats, enhancing nesting habitat and building community support.
Glenelg Estuary and Discovery Bay Ramsar Listing: Approval of the site as Victoria’s 12th Ramsar site.
Budj Bim World Heritage Submission: Acceptance of World Heritage submission for the Budj Bim led by Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owner Aboriginal Corporation.
Protection of Stony Rises Woodland: Parks Victoria monitoring and management Feral Pig Management: Commencing in April 2015, of over-abundant koalas in the Budj Bim DELWP has been trapping feral pigs on public land. National Park and Tyrendarra Flora Reserve.
Rabbit Monitoring: Agriculture Victoria rabbit Glenelg Ark: DELWP and Parks Victoria project undertaking monitoring at long-term monitoring site at Tyrendarra. fox baiting for the past 13 years. Total of 57,400 ha baited.
Strategic and Coordinated Weed Management in Lower Glenelg Eden: DELWP and Parks Victoria strategic, landscape Glenelg Discovery Bay: Working with Parks Victoria and scale weed management project that focuses on detection and Nelson Coastcare, this project aims to improve habitat quality removal of high risk weeds. Total of 18,874 ha treated. and protect threatened species.
Orange-bellied Parrot Winter Monitoring: This Glenelg Estuary and Discovery Bay Weed Control: This project is multi-regional project led by DELWP monitored prioritising and undertaking weed control measures across 4000 ha of Orange-bellied Parrot habitat. This is long-term threatened coastal habitat. Project partners include Glenelg Shire, Glenelg monitoring which occurs annually. Nature Trust, Nelson Coastcare, Greening Australia, Parks Victoria, DELWP.
52 OUR REGION – CATCHMENT CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT REPORT 2017-18
Bertya gramiana and Daviesi laevis: Biodiversity On-ground Actions Agriculture Victoria Invasive Program Delivery: Project led by DELWP to review five endemic flora species in the Agriculture Victoria inspected a total of 196 Grampians post large scale natural disturbance events. properties and 36,136 ha for invasive plants and animals.
Grampians Ark: Fox baiting on Walker Swamp Purchase: A partnership between public land led by Parks Victoria. GHCMA and Glenelg Nature Trust has led to the purchase of Walker Swamp, with the aim of restoring the swamp and surrounding wetlands.
Water Security Extension Program: Agriculture Victoria delivered three water planning sessions to 72 farmers, responsible for 47,070 ha.
Improving the Quality and Connectedness of Grassland Communities on the VVP: Led by DELWP, this collaborative project aimed to improve the quality of EPBC and FFG listed grasslands and grassy woodlands and a suite of threatened species.
Brolga Census: Annual Brolga count at their summer-autumn flocking sites to estimate population size and estimate the level of successful breeding from the previous two years.
Management of Fire Affected Peat Soils: Middle Island Penguin Logans Beach Whale Watching Partnership between Ag Victoria and GHCMA. Project: DELWP funded Platform: DELWP coordinates Investigated changes to the chemical, physical and a review of project, whale watching volunteers and biological characteristics of soils as a result of fires. development of business weekly media updates to educate plan and on ground actions. the public. Good Neighbour Program: Parks Victoria has delivered pest plant and animal projects including Southern Right Whale (SRW) Calf Survival Assessment: rabbit management at Narrawong Coastal Reserve, This DELWP project collected photo identifications of SRW calves Polygala management in Nelson State Park, pine which are used to develop protocols for photo-identification of control in Bahgallah Bushland Reserve and Wilken calves in Australia. Flora and Fauna Reserve, and Cape Tulip and Mexican Feathergrass control in the Tooloy Flora Reserve and Tooloy-Lake Mundi Wildlife Reserve. Reconnecting Budj Bim: Greening Australia project establishing 30,000 trees to improve habitat for Spotted-tailed Quoll and Swift Parrot.
53 CONNECTING COMMUNITIES WITH ENVIRONMENT
Relationships and communication • undertaking Funds for Fish Glenelg Hopkins Advisory Group Crowdfunding campaign to promote with our community are central The community members on the Glenelg the importance of fish habitat for to the Glenelg Hopkins CMA Hopkins CMA Advisory group are: increasing fish populations; ethos. Accordingly, close working - Malcolm Rowe (Chair) • assist the community in the partnerships with residents, establishment of the South West - Craig Oliver landholders, agencies, industry Victorian Ozfish Unlimited chapter; - Mark Bachmann groups and investors thread • Coordinating two tours for public to - Graeme Ward through all CMA objectives. the Budj Bim National Park; - Justin Weaver Integral and respected relationships have • Promoting and supporting Water - Singarayer Florentine driven engagement between the CMA for Country Aboriginal Arts Expo - Jenny Emeny and the south-west Victorian community and competition in Hamilton where - Karrinjeet Singh-Mahil for over 20 years. approximately 100 people attended; - Denis Rose Activities in partnership with our • Supporting the 2018 Reconciliation (indigenous representative). community have included tree planting, Week events and activities, including revegetation, farm planning, soil testing, Agency representatives are provided by: hosting a Cultural walk and talk along catchment health, fauna protection, the Grange Burn landscape; - DELWP flood recovery, Indigenous ecological - DEDJTR knowledge, Landcare and funding • Recognising and acknowledging assistance. the efforts, skill and passion and - Parks Victoria. knowledge of the south west Strong partnerships have been forged Board representatives for this Group are: Victorian volunteers during 2018 with organisations in the public and - Michelle Casanova (Director) National Volunteers Week; private sectors and assisted the CMA in - Karen Wales (Director) fulfilling its natural resource management • Coordinating the Junior Ranger - Ian Hastings (Director). responsibilities. Program with Budj Bim Tours and Baimbridge College showing the During 2017-18 the Advisory Group 2017-18 community engagement history of the eel aquaculture system received briefings and participated in activities included: located at Lake Condah; workshops on the Climate Change • promoting catchment management • CMA Board hosting two community Strategy, regional Landcare updates, at industry events such as Hamilton lunches in the region, one in Harrow the Regional Floodplain Management Sheepvention and South West Dairy and one in Warrnambool; Strategy, Regional Catchment Strategy, Field Days; Deakin Land Capability Study and • Supporting the south west regional • South West Landcare Gathering the Glenelg Hopkins CMA Social community by on-ground assistance in Hamilton; Media Policy. after the south west devastating fires • Supporting the 2017 Naidoc Week in March 2018; The Group also provided feedback events and activities; into the Environmental Water • Supporting the Cavendish community Communications Strategy and an • Landcare monthly e-newsletters, through participation and sponsorship angler engagement approach for the Coastal Connection updates and of the Cavendish Red Gum Festival; delivery on Waterway Health projects. Landlife e-newsletters; • Supporting the Lake Bolac community A communication workshop was held • promoting sustainable use of through participation and sponsorship with the Advisory Group community waterways and fishing events such of the Lake Bolac Eel Festival; members and CMA staff on approaches as the Red Gum Shield Fishing to communicate with various • Coordinating the Glenelg River Competition, Warrnambool Offshore stakeholders. An Environmental Water Exposed Photography competition for and Light Game Shipwreck Coast tour of the Upper Glenelg catchment was the community through social media; Fishing Classic, Rocklands Fishing also held, visiting Rocklands Reservoir and; Competition and South West and a property at Balmoral. Fishing Classic; • Participating in the Summer by the • sponsoring the Wannon Water Sea School holidays program through National Water Week Competition; the Estuary Explorers by providing the opportunity to learn about estuary • building community capacity in processes and indigenous plants in management and monitoring the region. of threatened woodland bird communities;
54 CONNECTING COMMUNITIES WITH ENVIRONMENT
Glenelg Hopkins Environmental Local Government relations Email, print and web newsletters Water Advisory Group In 2017-18 Glenelg Hopkins CMA In early 2017 LandLife transferred The Glenelg River Environmental Water continued the proactive liaison program to an online publication, highlighting Advisory Group was established as the with local government, identifying the achievements of natural resource primary mechanism for engaging with core responsibilities of both agencies and management in the Glenelg Hopkins the community and stakeholders on pursuing opportunities for collaborative region and emailed through to our environmental watering activities in the arrangements and providing briefings on stakeholder listing of over 300 people. activities of significance. Glenelg River. The e-magazine was distributed three This group provides an avenue for The CMA works closely with local times in 2017-18 with contributions community knowledge to be governments in the floodplain from partner organisations broadening incorporated in the annual environmental management area, providing advice the content. on planning referrals, developing water planning process and is considered The Landcare team communicates with planning scheme amendments for flood part of the CMAs decision-making Landcare and NRM groups and the wider management and updating Municipal process informing on the development community through its monthly Landcare Emergency Management Plans. The of the Glenelg River Seasonal Watering e-newsletter which provides a snapshot CMA has conducted workshops with Proposal prepared for submission to the of news, grants and environmental nine councils across the region to Victorian Environmental Water Holder. and sustainable agricultural activities. jointly develop floodplain management Activities are promoted from a range priorities for inclusion in the Regional Glenelg Hopkins Community of organisations, including the CMA, Floodplain Management Strategy. The DELWP, Landcare and NRM groups. Advisory Group CMA is assisting Southern Grampians The newsletter is housed on the Shire Council in the management of the The Glenelg Hopkins Community Landcare gateway website, and linked Coleraine Flood Investigation. Advisory Group is one of the vehicles through an email database. by which the CMA engages with the The CMA’s works crew regularly assists community in the development and in activities such as fencing, spraying and An e-newsletter is published to adaptive management of the Regional weed removal for local government. improve engagement and provide Catchment Strategy, sub strategies and information to community members interested in Environmental Water in the action plans. Media Glenelg River. The Glenelg River Update Members of the Advisory Group The media, including print, community was distributed via an email database bring community perception and local newsletters, social media, and regional and is made available on the CMA knowledge in specific natural resource radio, is a primary tool in delivering CMA website regularly. management matters, that contribute messages to the wider community. While The Coastal Connections email is and inform towards the CMA strategic the CMA understands the important distributed via email on a bi-monthly program. role print and electronic media plays, basis to provide information updates communication through our website In 2017-2018 the Advisory Group on the state of our estuaries as well is also considered a critical aspect for discussed Waterway Strategy review and as associated media releases, engaging the community. received briefings on the Glenelg Estuary opportunities for volunteer involvement and Discovery Bay appointment to the Agriculture Victoria and the CMA and on-ground activities. Ramsar Convention and Biochar. publish a regular column in the Hamilton The CMA has partnered with the Spectator, helping to reinforce the Australian River Restoration Centre and connection between the CMA and now has a hosted site on Riverspace. environmental management and its The website provides key information on partnership with agriculture. the Glenelg River Restoration Project and Through regional newspapers, the CMA associated Twinning Project. has strongly promoted many events and activities across south west Victoria with the majority of the media coverage being favourable. Glenelg Hopkins CMA accepts the growth and impact of social media can have in community engagement. The CMA has a significant facebook presence in the region and is developing a twitter presence. Project officers are encouraged to use social media in community engagement and this is considered a strategic tool for public reputation management in the organisation.
55 PERFORMANCE REPORTING (FINANCE)
FIVE YEAR SUMMARY - FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE AT A GLANCE
2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 ($ ‘000) ($ ‘000) ($ ‘000) ($ ‘000) ($ ‘000)
Victorian Government contributions 9,078 6,677 6,847 4,625 4,648
Federal Government contributions 2,039 2,407 2,497 3,137 3,828
Other revenue 596 353 714 1,098 988
Total revenue 11,713 9,437 10,058 8,860 9,464
Total expenditure 10,750 9,953 9,000 7,953 8,622
Surplus/(deficit) for the year 964 (483) 1,058 907 842
Financial assets 8,860 7,582 7,905 6,808 5,796
Non-financial assets 1,011 1,091 1,147 1,311 1,301
Total assets 9,871 8,673 9,052 8,119 7,097
Liabilities 1,671 1,437 1,333 1,355 1,308
Net assets 8,200 7,236 7,719 6,764 5,789
Current Financial Review
Overview Cash Flow Capital Projects In 2017-18, Glenelg Hopkins CMA The overall cash surplus of $647k for Glenelg Hopkins CMA does not achieved a net result from transactions of the 2017-18 financial year was a net manage any capital projects. $964k, $1.4 million higher than in 2016- increase of $437k compared to the 17. Both total income and expenses from previous year. This additional cash was Subsequent Events transactions have increased from the the result of receipts from government previous financial year, primarily due to for delivery in 2018-19. There were no significant events additional revenue and expenditure from subsequent to the balance date that the National Disaster Relief Recovery Net cash inflows from operating would have a material impact on the Arrangement (NDRRA), as a result of the activities was $646k, an increase from operations of Glenelg Hopkins CMA. 2016 floods in the region. 2016-17 due to more cash funding received from government and slightly Disclosure of Grants and The overall net result of $964k is higher payments to suppliers. consistent with the past five years with Transfer Payments the exception of 2017, which resulted in Significant Changes in Glenelg Hopkins CMA has provided a small deficit. Financial Position grants to natural resource management community groups and organisations as Balance Sheet In 2017-18, there were no significant part of the Victorian Landcare Grants changes in financial position. Net assets increased by $964k over within the Glenelg Hopkins region. Glenelg Hopkins CMA’s income was the year to $8.1 million, mainly due to Grants were provide to 33 groups in $11.7 million and expenditure achieved increases in total assets of $1.19 million 2017-18 for the purposes of supporting was $10.7 million. comprising $1.2 million of increases in the administration of regional Landcare financial assets, offset by a reduction of groups totalling $14,200 and to $80k in non-financial assets. Significant Changes or Factors 19 groups for implementing on-ground Affecting Performance natural resource management projects Total liabilities increased mainly due to totalling $229,184 supplier payments within normal trading No major changes impacted on the terms. performance of Glenelg Hopkins CMA during 2017-18. 56 PERFORMANCE REPORTING (FINANCE)
2017-18 Victorian Landcare Grants Program recipients
Group Funding
Basalt to Bay Landcare Network $2,903
Beaufort Landcare Group $15,099
Beyond Bolac Community Action Group $29,670
Bulart Land Management Group $3,700
Bunnugal Landcare Group $14,470
Eumeralla Landcare Group $5,188
Friends of the Great South West Walk Inc. $7,950
Hamilton Coleraine Railway Line Landcare Group $21,338
Gazette Land Action Group $16,126
Lake Goldsmith Landcare Group $5,233
Lyne Camp Creek Land Management Group $10,925
MAD for the Merri $9,310
Nelson Coastcare Incorporated $620
Panyyabyr Landcare Group $28,334
Pierrepoint Land Protection Group $11,770
Port Fairy to Warrnambool Rail Trail Committee $6,660
Upper Hopkins Land Management Group $23,075
Warrnambool Coastcare Landcare Network $16,813
57 GOVERNANCE AND ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE
Glenelg Hopkins CMA is governed Governance in Glenelg Hopkins CMA The Chairperson Antony Ford was by a range of requirements stated encourages strong performance and re-appointed in October 2017 for a term provides community confidence in the of four years. in legislation, including the Water organisation. This allows the CMA to The Board is responsible and accountable Act 1989, the Catchment and Land operate efficiently and effectively as for the good governance, strategic Protection Act 1994,the Financial well as responding strategically to direction and effective and efficient changing demands. Management Act 1994 and the operation of the organisation. Public Administration Act 2004. The Chief Executive Officer is the Key objectives for the Board are to: main conduit between the Board and The Board reports to the Minister staff. The Chief Executive Officer • represent the interests of the for Water, the Hon. Lisa Neville and is responsible for daily operational community in natural resource the Minister for Energy, Environment management of the CMA in accordance management; and Climate Change the Hon. Lily with the law, decisions of the Board and • achieve integrated catchment D’Ambrosio, and is accountable government policies. management (as measured by to Parliament and the community. improvement in resource condition); Accountability is further strengthened by Natural resource planning within the Auditor-General and Department of south-west Victoria begins with the • act as a steward for the natural Environment, Land, Water and Planning. Regional Catchment Strategy. The resource base; strategy forms the framework for natural • create effective partnerships; It calls for innovation and continuous resource management action within the improvement while meeting legislative • develop appropriate action plans catchment and assists the Victorian and and corporate governance requirements. and support their implementation, Australian Governments to direct funding including development of targets; and The Corporate Plan identifies the four into the region for this purpose. • Provide regional leadership in natural strategic objectives developed by The Annual Report provides information resource management. the Board, which associated with the on achievement of business results objectives identified in the Regional and the implementation of the Catchment Strategy provide guidance Corporate Plan. The 2018-19 to for the organisation in establishing our 2022-23 Corporate Plan reinforces business direction and activities. the organisation’s commitment to Governance involves the relationships sustainability, adaptive management and between the Victorian Government, the responsible environmental stewardship. Board, Executive Team and stakeholders. It calls for innovation and continuous improvement while meeting legislative and corporate governance requirements. A Board of eight community representatives governs Glenelg Hopkins CMA. Directors are appointed by the Minister following a public call for people with skills and catchment experience.
58 GOVERNANCE AND ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE
Governing Board
Number Name of Meetings Explanatory Note
Appointed to the Board 27 October 2015 to 30 September 2017 Antony Ford 8/8 Appointed Board Chairperson 27 October 2015 to 30 September 2017 Re-appointed to the Board and as Chairperson 1 October 2017 to 30 September 2021
Damein Bell 5/8 Appointed to the Board 27 October 2015 to 30 September 2019
Michelle Casanova 6/8 Appointed to the Board 27 October 2015 to 30 September 2019
Christine Giles 4/6 Appointed to the Board 1 October 2017 to 30 September 2021
Georgina Gubbins 7/8 Appointed to the Board 27 October 2015 to 30 September 2019
Ian Hastings 2/2 Appointed to the Board November 2013 to 30 September 2017
Phil Saunders 5/6 Appointed to the Board 1 October 2017 to 30 September 2021
Appointed to Board July 2009 Acting Chairperson from 30 September 2015 to 26 October 2015 Debbie Shea 8/8 Re-appointed to Board October 2013 to 30 September 2017 Re-appointed to the Board 1 October 2017 to 30 September 2019
Appointed to Board July 2009 John Sherwood 8/8 Re-appointed to Board October 2013 to 30 September 2017 Re-appointed to the Board 1 October 2017 to 30 September 2019
Appointed to Board July 2009 Michael Wagg 2/2 Appointed Chairperson July 2011 to 30 September 2015 Re-appointed to Board October 2013 to 30 September 2017
Appointed to Board March 2013 Karen Wales 1/2 Re-appointed to Board October 2013 to 30 September 2017
Appointed to the Board 1 October 2017 to 30 September 2021 Kate Calvert 0/0 Resigned from Board 20 June 2018
Apologies from Directors for non-attendance at meetings are received by the Chair prior to the meeting and approved by the Board.
59 GOVERNANCE AND ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE
Chairperson Ms Georgina Gubbins has been a Board Ms Karen Wales holds a Diploma of member of Wannon Water since October Natural Resource Management, Diploma Mr Antony Ford has over 35 years' 2011 with over 20 years' experience of Applied Science in Horticulture and is experience in Australian and international in Commercial Business and Corporate a Graduate of the Australian Institute of agribusiness, of which 25 years has Governance, and holds a Masters of Company Directors. She has 14 years’ been at senior executive level and on Agribusiness. Georgina is a specialist experience as a Landcare facilitator for the boards of food manufacturing, red meat producer in the Glenelg River various Landcare networks and was a horticultural, aquaculture and other catchment and has undertaken extensive partner in the family sheep and cropping institutions. In the recent past he has work on wildlife corridors and wetlands. farm at Caramut until recently. Currently been a CEO, senior executive and board In addition, Georgina is the Chair of the she works for South West Institute member in production horticulture, a Great South Coast Food and Fibre of TAFE as the Land Based Program large finfish aquaculture company and Council and is a Graduate and Fellow Advisor. She is actively involved with presently leads the regional food and of the Australian Institute of Company other regional Landcare groups in a fibre development body in the Great Directors. volunteer capacity. South Coast of Victoria. In addition he continues to work in the Mr Ian Hastings holds a Master Ms Chris Giles is the Chief Executive food production and food manufacturing of Science degree (University of Officer at Portland District Health space in advisory capacities as an California, Berkeley), a Bachelor of and has considerable experience as a agribusiness consultant in SE and SW Science (Forestry) Honours degree leader and manager of regional, rural Australia. He continues to be involved (University of Melbourne), a Diploma of and remote public health services. She in industry policy development, strategic Forestry (Creswick) and is a Graduate holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Health planning and action delivery across the of the Australian Institute of Company Management along with nursing and industries, he has operated within. Directors. Ian retired from the Victorian midwifery qualifications. Chris has a Public Service in November 2012 background in agriculture having and Deputy Chairperson after over 46 years experience in land, currently has an interest in an irrigation biodiversity, catchment and water property, with past experience in Ms Debbie Shea holds a range of resource management with the then sheep, dairy and poultry farming. She is qualifications in primary industry and Department of Sustainability and currently a Board Director for a Health business management and has had Environment and its predecessors. ICT alliance and has held the elected extensive experience managing a role as a Shire Councilor. Chris has also large-scale wool enterprise at her Dr John Sherwood holds qualifications been actively involved in Land and Sea property, balancing production and in science, philosophy, education and Management initiatives working with conservation issues. environmental studies, with extensive local traditional owner in the Torres Strait. experience as a research scientist She is active in several Ararat-region in freshwater, marine and estuarine Mr Phil Saunders is a beef farmer at community groups and is a Graduate systems and environmental management. Tyrendarra specialising in the production of the Australian Institute of Company He is Honorary Associate Professor in of vealers for the domestic market. Directors. the School of Life and Environmental He has a Bachelor of Agricultural Sciences at Deakin University in Science and a Bachelor of Business – Directors Warrnambool. Accountancy. He is deputy chair of the Mr Damein Bell is CEO of Gunditj Board of Heywood Rural Health and Mr Michael Wagg holds a Degree in Mirring Traditional Owners Aboriginal chair of their finance sub-committee. He Agricultural Science, Diploma in Project Corporation and has previously been is also an independent member of the Management and is a Graduate of a Board Member with the Victorian Glenelg Shire Council audit committee. the Australian Institute of Company Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Directors. Concurrent with running Ms Kate Calvert was appointed to Commission and the Native Title sheep properties near Cavendish and the CMA Board 1 October 2017 and Services of Victoria. Chetwynd for 25 years, he has worked resigned from the Board June 2018. Dr Michelle Casanova has a PhD in in various natural resource management Kate did not attend any Board Meetings Botany and is Principal at Charophyte and community engagement positions due to leave of absence. Services, a consultancy aimed at with government agencies. He is providing best practice, scientific now a Director with Jarrapool Project research, information and assessment Management and Consulting Pty Ltd concerning water plants and wetlands. working mainly with rural research and Michelle lives and works on a fine- development organisations. wool merino and cropping farm near Lake Bolac.
60 GOVERNANCE AND ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE
Audit and Risk Committee The responsibilities of the Audit and Members are appointed by the board, Risk Committee are set out in Standing usually for a three year term, and are The Audit and Risk committee consisted Direction 3.2.1.1. Key responsibilities of subject to the committee’s terms of of the following members in 2017-18: the audit committee are to: reference. - Graham Shiell (independent) • review and report independently to Meetings are held quarterly and at any - Brian Densem (independent) the board on the annual report and all other time on request of a committee - Bonnie Holmes (independent) other financial information published member or the internal or external by Glenelg Hopkins Catchment auditor. - Georgina Gubbins (Director) Management Authority; In 2017-18, the committee met four - Ian Hastings (Director) • assist the board in reviewing the times. Attendance of committee - Debbie Shea (Director) effectiveness of Glenelg Hopkins members is detailed in the table below: Catchment Management Authority’s The committee comprises three internal control environment covering: Board Directors and two independent representatives, one being the Chair - effectiveness and efficiency of of the Audit and Risk Committee, operations; Brian Densem. The other independent - reliability of financial reporting; and member is Bonnie Holmes. - compliance with applicable laws and - After nine years on the Audit & Risk regulations. Committee, Graham Shiell resigned as Chair and member in February 2018. • determine the scope of the internal audit function and ensure its - Board representatives from 1 July resources are adequate and used 2017 to 30 June 2018 were Directors effectively, including coordination Georgina Gubbins, Debbie Shea and with the external auditors; and Phil Saunders. • oversee the effective operation of the - Non-voting staff members are risk management framework. executive officer Business and Finance Program Manager, Kathy Connoley.
Audit and Risk Committee Attendance for 2017-18
Number of % of Meetings Audit & Risk Committee Aug-17 Nov-17 Feb-18 Jun-18 Meetings attended attended Graham Shiell 1 1 1 3 100%
Brian Densem 1 1 1 1 4 100%
Bonnie Holmes 1 1 100%
Georgina Gubbins 1 1 1 1 4 100%
Debbie Shea 1 1 1 1 4 100%
Ian Hastings 1 1 100%
Phil Saunders 1 1 1 3 100%
Kathy Connoley 1 1 1 1 4 100%
Stacey Grace 1 1 1 1 4 100%
Note: Graham Shiell finished as Chairperson in February 2018, Brian Densem commenced as Chair in March 18. Note: Ian Hastings term as Board Director finished September 2017, Phil Saunders commenced October 17. Note: Bonnie Holmes commenced as Audit and Risk Independent Member in May 2018.
61 GOVERNANCE AND ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE
BOARD COMMITTEES The committee’s primary objective is Non-voting CEO Kevin Wood replaced to advise the Board on senior staff Kathy Connoley as Executive Officer Remuneration and appointments, remuneration and for the Remuneration and Performance performance evaluation. Committee until retirement in March Performance Committee 2018. Adam Bester commenced as CEO In particular, the committee advises the From 1 July 2017 to 30 June 2018, on 1 March 2018. Board on: the Chair of the Remuneration and Performance Committee was Board • appropriate executive level Chairperson Antony Ford with Directors remuneration and employment John Sherwood, Michelle Casanova and agreements; Michael Wagg as members. • specification of CEO performance measures; Director Mike Wagg concluded his term with the Board September 2017. • evaluation of CEO performance; and • succession planning.
Remuneration and Performance Attendance for 2017-18
Remuneration and Number of % of Meetings Aug-17 Sept-17 Jan-18 May-18 Performance Committee Meetings attended attended Antony Ford 1 1 1 1 4 100%
John Sherwood 1 1 1 1 4 100%
Michelle Casanova 1 1 1 1 4 100%
Kevin Wood 1 1 0 0 2 66.7%
Adam Bester 0 0 0 1 1 100%
Janette Albert 1 1 1 1 4 100%
Note: Kevin Wood retired as CEO March 2018, Adam Bester commenced as CEO March 1 2018.
Long Term Accommodation Long Term Accommodation Working Group Working Group Member 19 Jun-17 8 Nov-17 29 Nov-17 The Long Term Accommodation Working Group was established to look into John Sherwood 1 1 the future accommodation of the Damian Bell 1 1 organisation. Susie Hand 1 The activities in 2017-18 focused on the transition of the Warrnambool office Kathy Connoley 1 1 from Lava Street to the Deakin University Jacinta Bailey 1 1 1 complex. Investigations on the feasibility of the Hamilton French Street buildings was also considered.
62 GOVERNANCE AND ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE
ORGANISATIONAL CHART
Minister for Energy, Environment Minister for Water and Climate Change The Hon. Lisa Neville MP The Hon. Lily D’Ambrosio MP
Partnership Forum and CMA Board Board Sub Committees Advisory Groups • Strategy • Glenelg Hopkins Community • Policy • Audit and Risk Advisory Group • Monitoring • Remuneration and Performance • Glenelg River Environmental • Accountability • Long Term Accommodation Water Advisory Group Working Group
Chief Executive Officer Internal Audit Adam Bester
Partnership and Investment Business and Finance Waterway and Catchment Program Manager Program Manager Health Program Manager Michael Rees Kathy Connoley Chris Solum
• Strategy and Investment • Human resources • Coordinate regional waterway, Coordination • Financial management wetland and coastal health programs • Co-ordination of regional NRM • Facilities, motor vehicles, investment operational support • Maintenance of waterway and • Co-ordinate land health and management catchment health stakeholders biodiversity service delivery, • Records management • Maintenance of the including support for the Environmental Water Reserve • Information Technology regional Landcare programs • Coordinate the Natural • Community engagement Disaster Relief and Recovery support Arrangements • Indigenous partnerships • Floodplain management • Works on waterways regulation within the region
63 OUR PEOPLE, OUR BUSINESS
REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
Partnership and Investment Waterway and Catchment Health Human Resource Management Strategy and investment coordination. Sustainable and integrated management Glenelg Hopkins CMA has continued to Sustainable and integrated management of rivers, wetlands, terrestrial habitats improve employment relations through of soils, flora and fauna through and biodiversity. Preserve and enhance the following actions: partnerships. Regional partnerships with the ecological health of the region’s • a Reward and Recognition Program community and Government. Indigenous waterways and terrestrial systems encouraging peer recognition for partnership projects. Regional Landcare through planning and delivery of rural staff that have ‘gone that extra Support. Monitoring and reporting of and urban works, flood and drought mile’. A five- tiered reward system is integrated catchment management recovery programs. Protect and enhance based on different criteria and has across the Glenelg Hopkins region. the coastal areas of the catchment while been embraced by staff since its Statutory services including referrals, providing opportunities for sustainable introduction; advice and licences associated with use and development along the coast. waterway and floodplain management. Water resources planning including • engaging staff in a workforce regulated and unregulated water obligations workshop; and Floodplain management including planning, environmental flows monitoring strategic and statutory planning, • alignment of employee behaviours to and surface water monitoring. flood response planning and flood agreed values and behaviours through investigations. performance reviews. Business and Finance Finance and business, human resources, Values and Behaviours records management, administration, Staff conduct strongly reflects public information technology and associated sector values as prescribed in the business support activities. Public Administration Act, 2004. The values and behaviours are reported against performance reviews as part of employee review and development. The benefit of this approach is to encourage individual behaviours toward a desired organisational culture.
64 OUR PEOPLE, OUR BUSINESS
WORKFORCE DATA Public sector employment principles Workforce Data (section 8, PAA) Glenelg Hopkins CMA employed 49 staff Public Sector values and Public entities are required to have in (42.25 full time equivalent), compared to employment principles place employment processes that will 44 staff (39 full time equivalent) on ensure that: 30 June 2017. Glenelg Hopkins CMA has introduced policies and practices that are consistent • employment decisions are based The proportion of women was 53%, with the VPSC’s employment standards on merit; compared to 52% on 30 June 2017. and provide for fair treatment, career • public sector employees are treated Notes: opportunities and the early resolution of fairly and reasonably; workplace issues. - All figures reflect employment levels • equal employment opportunity during the last full pay period in June of Glenelg Hopkins CMA has advised its is provided; each year. employees on how to avoid conflicts of • human rights as set out in the Charter interest, how to respond to offers of gifts - Excluded are those on leave without of Human Rights and Responsibilities and how it deals with misconduct. pay or absent on secondment, external are upheld; and contractors/consultants, and temporary Public sector values (section 7, PAA) • public sector employees have a staff employed by employment agencies. reasonable avenue of redress against - Ongoing employees include people The public sector values are: unfair or unreasonable treatment. engaged on an open ended contract of Responsiveness, Integrity, Impartiality, Codes of conduct and standards employment and executives engaged on Accountability, Respect, Leadership and issued by the Victorian Public Sector a standard executive contract who were Human rights. Commission (VPSC), include: active in the last full pay period of June. • the Code of Conduct for Victorian - Glenelg Hopkins CMA Workforce as at Public Sector Employees; and June 30 2018. • the Conflict of Interest Policy Framework and the Gifts Benefits and Hospitality Policy Framework.
For further information, please refer to the VPSC’s website (www.vpsc.vic.gov.au).
Glenelg Hopkins CMA Workforce as at June 30 2018
2017-18 2016-17
Executive Officers 4 4
Senior Managers 6 5
Administration Staff 9 7
Project Staff 30 28
Total Headcount Men 23 20
Total Headcount Women 26 24
Total 49 44
Male 21.79 18.71
Female 20.46 20.29
Total (FTE) 42.25 39.00
Employees have been correctly classified in workforce data collections.
65 OUR PEOPLE, OUR BUSINESS
Workforce Inclusion Policy Glenelg Hopkins CMA has recorded Occupational Health and Safety progress towards the targets and In 2017-18 Glenelg Hopkins CMA Glenelg Hopkins CMA is committed measures outlined in the Diversity and developed our first Diversity and to ensuring all legislative requirements Inclusion Plan and the aggregated results Inclusion Plan to strengthen our under the OH&S Act 2004 are being met are provided below. commitment to building a diverse and and that a safe management system is in inclusive organisation. Status 2017/18 place to provide a preventative approach to OH&S. The Diversity & Inclusion Plan is Complete 55.8% underpinned by three guiding principles: In progress 11.6% The aim is to create an infrastructure within the organisation that will enhance - we will embrace and respect different Overdue 4.7% the effectiveness of our OH&S policies, backgrounds, values, cultures, Not yet scheduled to star 27.9% procedures, meetings, reporting and experiences and viewpoints. communication avenues. Note: Some measures cover multiple years and - we will remove barriers to ensure full therefore will be reported on each year. Glenelg Hopkins CMA has continued to participation within the workplace and improve health and safety through: a culture of belonging. Glenelg Hopkins CMA has an action • regular OHS Committee meetings; - we will act ethically ensuring equal to promote the availability of flexible opportunity employment, transparent, working arrangements, with the number • OHS Committee training; fair and equitable decision making, of flexible working arrangements to be • review and revision of Safe Work acknowledgement of human rights, reported annually. Method Statements; a duty of care and a culture of The following table outlines Glenelg consultation. Hopkins actual progress against this • workplace Inspections; and action in 2017-18. • independent Occupational Health and Safety Audit. Actual progress Diversity and Inclusion Plan initiative Measure All OH&S policies and procedures are in 2017-18 available to staff through an electronic Promote the availability of flexible Number of staff with flexible 47% shared documents point on the CMA working arrangements working arrangements intranet and discussed at regular program and staff meetings. Note: Includes part-time employment, purchased leave and individual flexibility arrangements, data sourced from workplace data. There were no Work Cover claims for Note: Reported as a percentage against headcount as per 2017-18 Workforce Data. 2017-18.
All external contractors who undertake work for the Glenelg Hopkins CMA are provided with a Contractor Induction. They are required to produce evidence of their Work Cover status before starting work as well as a Safe Work Method Statement that must meet a level of compliance that equals, as a minimum, the requirements in our own Risk Assessment for the project. OH&S and Performance
Measure KPI 2017-18 2016-17 2015-16
Number of incidents 8 21 5 Incidents Rate per 100 FTE 18.93 53.85 12.22
Number of lost time claims 0 0 1 Claims Rate per 100 FTE 0 0 2.44
Claims Cost Average cost per standard claim 0 0 $7,958
FTE 42.25 39.00 40.91
Note: Significant increase in incidents reported in 2016-17 was as a result of an awareness campaign run by the OHS Committee to ensure all incidents were reported.
66 OUR PEOPLE, OUR BUSINESS
Executive Officer Data Consultancy Expenditure • Non-BAU ICT expenditure relates to extending or enhancing Glenelg An executive officer (EO) is defined as In 2017-18, there were 42 consultancies Hopkins Catchment Management an executive under Part 3 of the PAA engaged during the year, where the total Authority’s current ICT capabilities. or a person to whom the Victorian fees payable to the consultants was less Government’s Policy on Executive than $10,000. The total expenditure • BAU ICT expenditure is all remaining Remuneration in Public entities applies. incurred during 2017-18 in relation to ICT expenditure which primarily these consultancies was $120,237.12 relates to ongoing activities to All figures reflect employment levels at (excl. GST). Details of the individual operate and maintain the current the last full pay period in June of the consultancies are outlined on Glenelg ICT capability. current and corresponding previous Hopkins CMA’s website at reporting year. www.ghcma.vic.gov.au. Major Contracts The definition of an EO does not Glenelg Hopkins CMA did not award include a statutory office holder or an ICT Expenditure any major contracts during 2017-18. Accountable Officer. For the 2017-18 reporting period, A major contract is a contract entered No EO disclosure required for less than Glenelg Hopkins CMA had a total ICT into during the reporting period valued three executives. expenditure of $402,271 with the details at $10 million or more. as shown below:
OTHER DISCLOSURES • ICT expenditure refers to Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Local Jobs First – Victorian Authority’s costs in providing Industry Participation Policy business enabling ICT services within the current reporting period. It There were no tenders over $1,000,000 comprises Business As Usual (BAU) entered into by Glenelg Hopkins CMA ICT expenditure and Non-Business As during 2017-18. Usual (Non-BAU) ICT expenditure.
Government Advertising Expenditure Business As Usual Non-Business As Usual (Non-BAU) Operational Capital (BAU) ICT expenditure ICT expenditure expenditure expenditure Glenelg Hopkins CMA expenditure Total Total = A + B A B in 2017-18 reporting period on $373,963 $12,367 $9,040 $3,327 government campaign expenditure did not exceed $100,000.
67 OUR PEOPLE, OUR BUSINESS
Freedom of Information Compliance with Building Protected Disclosure Act 2012 Operation Act 1993 Compliance with the Protected Disclosures Act 2012 Glenelg Hopkins CMA is considered a Glenelg Hopkins CMA owns two and “Government Agency” under the terms operates three regional offices located in The Protected Disclosure Act 2012 of the Freedom of Information Act 1982. Hamilton and Warrnambool. (PD Act) enables people to make disclosures about improper conduct Accordingly, Glenelg Hopkins CMA Glenelg Hopkins CMA complies with by public officers and public bodies. complies with the procedures prescribed the Building Act 1993, the Building The Act aims to ensure openness and under which members of the public Regulations 2018 and the National accountability by encouraging people to may gain access to information held by Construction Code, and retains copies make disclosures and protecting them agencies. of two occupancy permits required for owned buildings. Glenelg Hopkins CMA when they do. Requests for information should be conducts and reports on scheduled forwarded to the Freedom of Information inspections of its owned buildings What is a protected disclosure? Officer, Janette Albert, PO Box 502 to ensure compliance with building A protected disclosure is a complaint of or 79 French Street, Hamilton, 3300, standards and regulations. The internal corrupt or improper conduct by a public accompanied by an application fee of control system allows Glenelg Hopkins officer or a public body. $28.90. CMA to satisfactorily manage risks. Glenelg Hopkins CMA’s offices in Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Application Hamilton and Warrnambool conformed Management Authority is a public body for the purposes of the Act. Glenelg Hopkins CMA received two with building standards during 2017-18. requests for information during 2017- There were no major works, emergency What is improper or corrupt conduct? 18 under the Freedom of Information Act orders or building orders issued in Improper or corrupt conduct involves 1982 from community members and as relation to buildings. substantial: a result there was no resulting appeals to VCAT. Competitive Neutrality Policy • mismanagement of public resources
Competitive neutrality requires • risk to public health or safety or the government businesses to ensure environment where services compete, or potentially • corruption. compete with the private sector, any advantage arising solely from their The conduct must be criminal in nature government ownership be removed if it or a matter for which an officer could be is not in the public interest. Government dismissed. businesses are required to cost and price these services as if they were privately owned. Competitive neutrality policy supports fair competition between public and private businesses and provides government businesses with a tool to enhance decisions on resource allocation. This policy does not override other policy objectives of government and focuses on efficiency in the provision of service.
Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority continues to comply with the requirements of the Competitive Neutrality Policy.
68 OUR PEOPLE, OUR BUSINESS
How do I make a Protected Disclosure? Contacts Additional Information Available You can make a protected disclosure Independent Broad-Based Anti- on Request about Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Corruption Commission (IBAC) Victoria Glenelg Hopkins CMA has available the Management Authority or its board Address: Level 1, North Tower, following documents as specified in the members, officers or employees by 459 Collins Street, Melbourne Financial Management Act 1994, subject contacting IBAC on the contact Victoria 3000. to the Freedom of Information Act 1982: details provided. Mail: IBAC, GPO Box 24234, Melbourne • publications produced by Glenelg Please note that Glenelg Hopkins Victoria 3001 Hopkins CMA and the places where Catchment Management Authority is not the publications can be obtained able to receive protected disclosures. Internet: www.ibac.vic.gov.au • relevant officers have duly completed Phone: 1300 735 135 How can I access Glenelg Hopkins declarations of pecuniary interests. Catchment Management Authority’s Email: See the website above for the These are treated as confidential procedures for the protection of secure email disclosure process, which documents persons from detrimental action? also provides for anonymous disclosures. • major external reviews
Glenelg Hopkins Catchment • changes in prices, fees, charges, rates Management Authority has established and levies charged procedures for the protection of persons from detrimental action in reprisal • major research and development for making a protected disclosure activities undertaken about Glenelg Hopkins Catchment • overseas travel undertaken, including Management Authority or its employees. a summary of the objectives and You can access Glenelg Hopkins outcomes of each visit Catchment Management Authority’s procedures on its website at: • major promotional, public relations www.ghcma.vic.gov.au. and marketing activities undertaken by the CMA to develop community awareness of the organisation and its services
• assessments and measures to improve the OH&S of employees
• Statement of Industrial Relations within the CMA, including time lost through industrial accidents and disputes
• list of major committees sponsored by the entity, the purposes of each committee and the extent to which the purposes have been achieved
• details of all consultancies and contractors including those engaged, services provided and expenditure for each engagement.
69 OUR PEOPLE, OUR BUSINESS
OFFICE BASED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
2016-17 % Quantity Quantity Objective Measure / comparing 2016-17 2017-18 1 year prior
kWh used per annum (x3 offices) 80,937 96,932 20% Reduce Energy Use (Electricity) kWh used per FTE per annum (x3 offices) 2,075 2,294 11%
White A4 reams per annum 233 246 6%
White A4 reams per FTE 5.97 5.82 -3% Reduce Paper Use White A3 reams per annum 9 10 11%
White A3 reams per FTE .23 0.24 3%
240 Litres recycled per annum 57 35 -39% Increase Paper Recycling 240 Litres recycled per FTE 1.46 0.83 -43%
Toner Cartridges consumed per annum 20 17 -15% Reduce Toner Cartridges Toner Cartridges consumed per FTE .51 0.40 -22%
Fleet size 13 13 0%
Reduce Fuel Use Litres fuel consumed per annum 33,489 31,829 -5%
Litres fuel consumed per vehicle 2,576 2,448 -5%
One way flights 18 38 111% No. Flights Melbourne / Warrnambool One way flights per FTE 0.46 0.90 95%
Kls consumed 79 French St, Hamilton 120 153 28%
Kls consumed 84 French St, Hamilton 30 68 127% Reduced Water Consumption Kls consumed 241 Lava St, Warrnambool 33 30 -9%
Overall Kls consumed per FTE 4.69 5.94 27%
70 OUR PEOPLE, OUR BUSINESS
FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT COMPLIANCE ATTESTATION STATEMENT I Antony Ford on behalf of the Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority certify that the Glenelg Hopkins CMA has complied with the applicable Standing Directions of the Minister of Finance under the Financial Management Act 1994 and Instructions.
The Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority Audit and Risk Committee verifies this.
Antony Ford Chairperson Glenelg Hopkins CMA 30 June 2018
71 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTENTS
72 HOW THIS REPORT IS STRUCTURED The Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority has presented its audited general purpose financial statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2018 in the following structure to provide users with the information about the Authority's stewardship of resource entrusted to it.
73 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 76 Comprehensive operating statement 77 Balance sheet 78 Cash flow statement 79 Statement of changes in equity
80 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 1. About this report 6. Financing our operations The basis on which the financial statements have been Cash flow information, commitments for expenditure and prepared and compliance with reporting regulations carry forward project funding
2. Funding delivery of our services 6.1 Cash flow information and balances Revenue recognised in respect of Government contributions 6.2 Commitments for expenditure and other income sources 6.3 Carry forward project funding 2.1 Summary of income that funds the delivery of our service 7. Risks, contingencies and valuation judgements 2.2 Income from transactions Financial risk management, contingent assets and liabilities 3. The cost of delivering services as well as fair value determination Operating expenses of the Authority 7.1 Financial instruments specific disclosures
3.1 Expenses incurred in delivery of services 7.2 Contingent assets and contingent liabilities
3.2 Materials, maintenance, grants, contracts and 7.3 Fair value determination consultancies 8. Other disclosures 3.3 Lease expenses 8.1 Ex-gratia expenses 3.4 Other operating expenses 8.2 Other economic flows included in net result 4. Key assets available to support output delivery 8.3 Reserves Land, buildings, works assets, plant and equipment, office furniture and equipment, motor vehicles, and intangible assets 8.4 Responsible persons
4.1 Total property, plant and equipment 8.5 Remuneration of executives
4.2 Intangible assets 8.6 Related parties 8.7 Remuneration of auditors 5. Other assets and liabilities Other key assets and liabilities 8.8 Subsequent events
5.1 Receivables 8.9 Australian Accounting Standards issued that are not yet effective 5.2 Payables
5.3 Other non-financial assets
72 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
DECLARATION IN THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The attached financial statements for the Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority have been prepared in accordance with Direction 5.2 of the Standing Directions of the Minister for Finance under the Financial Management Act 1994, applicable Financial Reporting Directions, Australian Accounting Standards including Interpretations, and other mandatory professional reporting requirements.
We further state that, in our opinion, the information set out in the comprehensive operating statement, balance sheet, statement of changes in equity, cash flow statement and accompanying notes, presents fairly the financial transactions during the year ended 30 June 2018 and financial position of the Authority at 30 June 2018.
At the time of signing, we are not aware of any circumstances which would render any particulars included in the financial statements to be misleading or inaccurate.
We authorise the attached financial statements for issue on 23 August 2018.
Antony Ford Adam Bester Chairperson CEO and Accountable Officer
Kathy Connoley Chief Finance & Accounting Officer
73
Independent Auditor’s Report To the Board of the Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority
pinion I have audited the financial report of the Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority (the authority) which comprises the:
• balance sheet as at 30 June 2018 • comprehensive operating statement for the year then ended • statement of changes in equity for the year then ended • cash flow statement for the year then ended • notes to the financial statements, including significant accounting policies • declaration in the financial statements. In my opinion, the financial report presents fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the authority as at 30 June 2018 and its financial performance and cash flows for the year then ended in accordance with the financial reporting requirements of Part 7 of the Financial Management Act 1994 and applicable Australian Accounting Standards.
sis or I have conducted my audit in accordance with the Audit Act 1994 which incorporates the pinion Australian Auditing Standards. I further describe my responsibilities under that Act and those standards in the Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Report section of my report. My independence is established by the Constitution Act 1975. My staff and I are independent of the authority in accordance with the ethical requirements of the Accounting Professional and Ethical Standards Board’s APES 110 Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants (the Code) that are relevant to my audit of the financial report in Victoria. My staff and I have also fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with the Code. I believe that the audit evidence I have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for my opinion.
o rd’s The Board of the authority is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the responsi i ities financial report in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards and the Financial or t e Management Act 1994, and for such internal control as the Board determines is necessary in n i to enable the preparation and fair presentation of a financial report that is free from report material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the financial report, the Board is responsible for assessing the authority’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless it is inappropriate to do so.
Auditor’s As re ired by the Audit Act y res onsibility is to e ress an o inion on the financial r s o si i iti s re ort based on the a dit y ob ecti es for the a dit are to obtain reasonable ass rance or t udit abo t hether the financial re ort as a hole is free fro aterial isstate ent hether o t i i due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes my o inion easonable r ort ass rance is a hi h le el of ass rance b t is not a arantee that an a dit cond cted in accordance ith the A stralian A ditin Standards ill al ays detect a aterial isstate ent hen it e ists isstate ents can arise fro fra d or error and are considered aterial if indi id ally or in the a re ate they co ld reasonably be e ected to infl ence the econo ic decisions of sers ta en on the basis of this financial re ort As art of an a dit in accordance ith the A stralian A ditin Standards e ercise rofessional d e ent and aintain rofessional sce ticis thro ho t the a dit also
• identify and assess the ris s of aterial isstate ent of the financial re ort hether d e to fra d or error desi n and erfor a dit roced res res onsi e to those ris s and obtain a dit e idence that is s fficient and a ro riate to ro ide a basis for y o inion he ris of not detectin a aterial isstate ent res ltin fro fra d is hi her than for one res ltin fro error as fra d ay in ol e coll sion for ery intentional o issions isre resentations or the o erride of internal control • obtain an nderstandin of internal control rele ant to the a dit in order to desi n a dit roced res that are a ro riate in the circ stances b t not for the r ose of e ressin an o inion on the effecti eness of the a thority’s internal control • e al ate the a ro riateness of acco ntin olicies sed and the reasonableness of acco ntin esti ates and related disclos res ade by the Board • concl de on the a ro riateness of the Board’s use of the going concern basis of acco ntin and based on the a dit e idence obtained hether a aterial ncertainty e ists related to e ents or conditions that ay cast si nificant do bt on the a thority’s ability to continue as a going concern. If I conclude that a material ncertainty e ists a re ired to dra attention in my auditor’s report to the related disclos res in the financial re ort or if s ch disclos res are inade ate to odify y o inion y concl sions are based on the a dit e idence obtained to the date of my auditor’s report. However, future events or conditions ay ca se the a thority to cease to contin e as a oin concern • e al ate the o erall resentation str ct re and content of the financial re ort incl din the disclos res and hether the financial re ort re resents the nderlyin transactions and e ents in a anner that achie es fair resentation co nicate ith the Board re ardin a on other atters the lanned sco e and ti in of the a dit and si nificant a dit findin s incl din any si nificant deficiencies in internal control that identify d rin y a dit
E B E Pa l artin A st 01 as dele ate for the Auditor eneral of ictoria
75
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
COMPREHENSIVE OPERATING STATEMENT for the financial year ended 30 June 2018
2018 2017 Notes $ $ Income from transactions Government contributions 2.2.1 11,117,170 9,084,123 Interest 2.2.2 142,215 138,651 Other income 2.2.3 453,810 214,327 Total income from transactions 11,713,195 9,437,100
Expenses from transactions Employee expenses 3.1.1 4,488,311 4,441,852 Depreciation 4.1.1 79,488 91,051 Materials, maintenance, grants, contracts and consultancies 3.2 4,966,069 4,212,667 Lease expenses 3.3 248,940 244,167 Other operating expenses 967,690 964,234 Total expenses from transactions 10,750,498 9,953,971
Net result from transactions (net operating balance) 962,697 (516,870)
Other economic flows included in net result Net gain/(loss) on non-financial assets 8.2 2,545 2,524 Other gain/(loss) from other economic flows 8.2 (933) 30,888 1,612 33,412
Net result 964,309 (483,459)
Other economic flows - other comprehensive income Items that will not be reclassified to net result Changes in physical asset revaluation surplus 8.3 - -
Comprehensive result 964,309 (483,459)
The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements.
76 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
BALANCE SHEET as at 30 June 2018
2018 2017 Notes $ $ Assets Financial assets Cash and deposits 6.1 8,016,255 7,368,942 Receivables 5.1 844,433 213,199 Total financial assets 8,860,688 7,582,141
Non-financial assets Property, plant and equipment 4.1 1,008,609 1,085,946 Other non-financial assets 5.3 2,000 4,886 Total non-financial assets 1,010,609 1,090,832
Total assets 9,871,297 8,672,973
Liabilities Payables 5.2 521,831 373,417 Employee related provisions 3.1.2 1,149,642 1,064,041
Total liabilities 1,671,473 1,437,457
Net assets 8,199,824 7,235,515
Equity Accumulated surplus/(deficit) 4,581,684 3,617,375 Physical asset revaluation surplus 8.3 461,194 461,194 Contributed capital 3,156,946 3,156,946
Net worth 8,199,824 7,235,515
The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements.
77 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
CASH FLOW STATEMENT for the year ended 30 June 2018
2018 2017 Notes $ $ Cash flows from operating activities Receipts Receipts from government 10,475,759 9,387,637 Interest received 127,361 149,031 Goods and Services Tax received from the ATO 21,701 158,928 Other receipts 455,124 278,980 Total receipts 11,079,945 9,974,576
Payments Payments to suppliers 6,166,263 5,449,602 Payments to employees 4,233,168 4,278,596 Goods and Services Tax paid to the ATO 33,594 - Total payments 10,433,025 9,728,198
Net cash flows from/(used in) operating activities 6.1.1 646,920 246,378
Cash flows from investing activities Purchases of non-financial assets 4.1.2 (2,152) (39,456) Proceeds from the sale of non-financial assets 8.2 2,545 3,327
Net cash (outflow) / inflow from investing activities 393 (36,129)
Net increase / (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 647,313 210,249
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the financial year 7,368,942 7,158,693
Cash and cash equivalents at end of financial year 6.1 8,016,255 7,368,942
The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements.
78 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY for the year financial year ended 30 June 2018
Physical asset Accumulated revaluation Contributed Surplus surplus Capital Total $ $ $ $ Balance at 1 July 2016 4,100,834 461,194 3,156,946 7,718,974 Net result for the year (483,459) - - (483,459)
Balance at 30 June 2017 3,617,375 461,194 3,156,946 7,235,515
Net result for the year 964,309 - - 964,309
Balance at 30 June 2018 4,581,684 461,194 3,156,946 8,199,824
The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements.
79 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ended 30 June 2018
NOTE 1 ABOUT THIS REPORT
The Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority is a Compliance Information government authority of the State of Victoria, established on These general purpose financial statements have been prepared 1 July 1997 by the state government. in accordance with the Financial Management Act 1994 (FMA) Its principal address is: and applicable Australian Accounting Standards (AASs) which Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority include Interpretations, issued by the Australian Accounting 79 French Street Standards Board (AASB). In particular, they are presented Hamilton VIC 3300 in a manner consistent with the requirements of AASB 101 Presentation of Financial Statements. A description of the nature of its operations and its principal activities is included in the Report of operations, which does not Where appropriate, those AASs paragraphs applicable to form part of these financial statements. not-for-profit entities have been applied. Accounting policies selected and applied in these financial statements ensure that Basis of preparation the resulting financial information satisfies the concepts of relevance and reliability, thereby ensuring that the substance These financial statements are in Australian dollars and of the underlying transactions or other events is reported. the historical cost convention is used unless a different measurement basis is specifically disclosed in the note associated with the item measured on a different basis.
The accrual basis of accounting has been applied in preparing these financial statements, whereby assets, liabilities, equity, income and expenses are recognised in the reporting period to which they relate, regardless of when cash is received or paid.
Judgements, estimates and assumptions are required to be made about financial information being presented. The significant judgements made in the preparation of these financial statements are disclosed in the notes where amounts affected by those judgements are disclosed. Estimates and associated assumptions are based on professional judgements derived from historical experience and various other factors that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results may differ from these estimates.
Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised and also in future periods that are affected by the revision. Judgements and assumptions made by management in the application of AASs that have significant effects on the financial statements and estimates are disclosed in the notes under the heading: 'Significant judgement or estimates', and relate to:
• employee benefit provisions (Note 3.1.2); • accrued revenue (Note 5.1); • accrued expenses (Note 5.2); • fair value measurements of assets and liabilities (Note 7.3); • estimation of useful life (Note 4.1.1). • estimation of operating lease committments (Note 6.2.1)
80 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 2 FUNDING DELIVERY OF OUR SERVICES
Introduction Structure The Authority's overall objective is for the co-ordinated control 2.1 Summary of income that funds the delivery of our services of natural resource management within the broader catchments 2.2 Income from transactions of Glenelg Hopkins. The role of the Authority is to ensure effective implementation of the Regional Catchment Strategy. Associated with this role the Authority carries out strategic planning and advises Government.
To enable the Authority to deliver on its objectives, it receives income predominantly through State and Commonwealth Government Contributions.
2.1 SUMMARY OF INCOME THAT FUNDS THE DELIVERY OF OUR SERVICES
2018 2017 Notes $ $ Government contributions 2.2.1 11,117,170 9,084,123 Interest 2.2.2 142,215 138,651 Other income 2.2.3 453,810 214,327 Total income from transactions 11,713,195 9,437,100
Income is recognised to the extent that it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the entity and the income can be reliably measured at fair value.
2.2 INCOME FROM TRANSACTIONS
2.2.1 Government contributions
2018 2017 $ $ State Government Catchment Planning 935,205 987,205 Second Generation Landcare 698,687 251,200 River Health 4,450,553 4,233,064 Floodplain Management 150,000 357,364 Disaster Recovery (Flood & Fire) 2,211,396 114,685 Other State Funding 631,745 734,047 9,077,586 6,677,565
Commonwealth Government National Landcare Program 1,989,840 1,960,458 Other Commonwealth Funding 49,744 446,100 2,039,584 2,406,558 Total Government contributions 11,117,170 9,084,123
Government grants and contributions are recognised as income from transactions on receipt or when the Authority obtains control of the contribution and meets certain other criteria as outlined in AASB 1004 Contributions, whichever is the sooner, and disclosed in the comprehensive operating statement as government contributions.
81 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 2.2 INCOME FROM TRANSACTIONS (CONT.)
2.2.2 Interest
2018 2017 $ $ Interest on bank deposits 142,215 138,651
Interest income includes interest received on bank term deposits. Interest income is recognised using the effective interest method which allocates the interest over the relevant period.
2.2.3 Other income
2018 2017 $ $ Partnership Contributions 347,000 49,000
Rental Income 18,669 11,812
Sundry 88,141 153,515
Total other income 453,810 214,327
Partnership contributions consists of funds received from organisations as partners in major projects, and are recognised as income from transactions when an entitlement is established or on receipt, whichever is the sooner, and disclosed in the comprehensive operating statement as other income.
Income from property rentals is recognised as income on a straight-line basis over the lease term.
All other income is recognised when the right to receive payment is established. .
82 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 3 THE COST OF DELIVERING SERVICES
Introduction Structure This section provides an account of the expenses incurred by 3.1 Expenses incurred in delivery of services the Authority in delivering services. In Section 2, the funds that 3.2 Materials, maintenance, grants, contracts and consultancies enable the provision of services were disclosed and in this note the cost association with the provision of services are recorded. 3.3 Lease expenses
3.1 EXPENSES INCURRED IN DELIVERY OF SERVICES
2018 2017 Notes $ $ Employee expenses 3.1.1 4,488,311 4,441,852 Materials, maintenance, grants, contracts and consultancies 3.2 4,966,069 4,212,667 Lease expenses 3.3 248,940 244,167 Other operating expenses 967,690 964,234 Total expenses from transactions 10,671,010 9,862,920
3.1.1 Employee expenses in the comprehensive operating statement
2018 2017 $ $ Salaries & wages 3,214,270 3,083,793 Annual leave 288,136 299,563 Long service leave 74,771 4,902 Other leave 326,198 298,767 Defined contribution superannuation expense 345,663 412,037 Other employee expenses 170,159 185,835 Movement in provisions for employee benefits 69,114 156,955 Total employee expenses 4,488,311 4,441,852
Employee expenses include all costs related to employment including wages and salaries, payroll tax, fringe benefits tax, leave entitlements, termination payments and WorkCover premiums. The amount charged to the comprehensive income statement in respect of superannuation represents contributions made or due by GHCMA to the relevant superannuation plans in respect to the services of GHCMA staff (both past and present). Superannuation contributions are made to the plans based on the relevant rules of each plan and any relevant compulsory superannuation requirements that GHCMA is required to comply with.
83 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 3 THE COST OF DELIVERING SERVICES (CONT.)
3.1.2 Employee related provisions in the balance sheet Provision is made for benefits accruing to employees in respect of wages and salaries, annual leave and long service leave (LSL) Significant judgement: Employee benefit provisions for services rendered to the reporting date and recorded as an In measuring employee benefit provisions, consideration is expense during the period the services are delivered. given to expected future wage and salary levels, experience of employee departures and periods of service. Expected future payments are discounted using a single weighted average discount rate based on market yields of national government bonds in Australia that reflects the estimated timing and amount of benefit payment.
2018 2017 $ $ Current provisions for employee benefits Time in lieu and RDO: Unconditional and expected to be settled within 12 months 32,514 26,439 Annual leave: Unconditional and expected to be settled within 12 months 249,427 222,876 Long service leave: Unconditional and expected to be settled within 12 months 79,676 70,510 Unconditional and expected to be settled after 12 months 457,019 416,094 818,636 735,919 Provisions for on-costs Unconditional and expected to be settled within 12 months 96,136 84,662 Unconditional and expected to be settled after 12 months 71,942 65,499 Total current provisions 986,714 886,080
Non-current provisions for employee benefits Long service leave: Conditional and expected to be settled after 12 months 140,769 153,757 Provisions for on-costs Conditional and expected to be settled after 12 months 22,159 24,204 Total non-current provisions 162,928 177,961
Total provisions for employee benefits and on-costs 1,149,642 1,064,041
2018 2017 $ $ Reconciliation of movement in on-cost provision Opening balance 174,365 - Additional provisions recognised - 152,413 Reductions resulting from payments/other sacrifices of future economic benefit 15,872 21,952 Unwind of discount and effect of changes in the discount rate Closing balance 190,237 174,365
84 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 3 THE COST OF DELIVERING SERVICES (CONT.)
Wages and salaries, time in lieu and annual leave 3.1.3 Superannuation contributions Liabilities for wages and salaries (including non-monetary Employees of the Authority are entitled to receive benefits, time in lieu, annual leave and on-costs) are recognised superannuation benefits and the Authority contributes to both as part of the employee benefit provision as current liabilities, defined benefit and defined contribution plans. The defined because the Authority does not have an unconditional right to benefit plans provide benefits based on year of service and final defer settlements of these liabilities. average salary.
Long service leave (LSL) The Authority does not recognise any defined benefit liability because it has no legal or constructive obligation to pay future Regardless of the expected timing of settlement, unconditional benefits relating to its employees. The Department of Treasury LSL is classified as a current liability because the Authority and Finance discloses in its annual financial statements the does not have an unconditional right to defer the settlement states net defined benefits cost related to the members of these of these liabilities. plans as an administered liability.
Unconditional LSL liability amounts expected to be wholly The amount recognised in the comprehensive operating settled within 12 months are measured at the nominal value. statement in relation to Superannuation is employer Unconditional LSL liability amount that are not expected to contributions for members of both defined benefit and defined be wholly settled within 12 months are measured as the contribution superannuation plans that are paid or payable present value of the estimated future cash outflows to be during the reporting period. made by the entity. The name, details and amounts expensed in relation to the Unconditional LSL represents long service leave entitlements major employee superannuation funds and contributions made accrued for employees with more than 7 years of continuous by the Authority are as follows: service.
Conditional LSL is classified as a non-current liability and measured as the present value of the estimated future cash outflows to be made by the entity.
2018 2017 $ $ Defined contribution plans:
Vision super 125,377 109,400
Vic super 39,489 46,978
Other private schemes 180,797 255,659
Total 345,663 412,037
There was $NIL in contributions outstanding to the above schemes as at 30 June 2018 (2017: $29,747).
85 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 3 THE COST OF DELIVERING SERVICES (CONT.)
3.2 MATERIALS, MAINTENANCE, GRANTS, CONTRACTS AND CONSULTANCIES
2018 2017 $ $ Materials 193,099 140,521
Repairs and maintenance 20,513 46,607
Grants paid 1,285,478 1,585,854
Contractors 2,295,425 1,473,808
Consultants 1,171,554 965,877
Total materials, maintenance, grants, contracts and consultancies 4,966,069 4,212,667
Materials, maintenance, grants, contracts, consultancies are recognised as an expense in the reporting period in which they are paid or payable.
3.3 LEASE EXPENSES
2018 2017 $ $ Operating lease payments 248,940 244,167
Lease expenses 248,940 244,167
Operating lease payments are recognised as an expense in the comprehensive operating statement on a straight-line basis over the lease term. The leased asset is not recognised in the balance sheet.
86 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 4 KEY ASSETS AVAILABLE TO SUPPORT OUTPUT DELIVERY
Introduction Structure The Authority controls property, plant and equipment that are 4.1 Total property, plant and equipment utilised in fulfilling its objectives and conducting its activities. They represent the key resources that have been entrusted to the Authority to be utilised for delivery of those outputs.
4.1 TOTAL PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Gross carrying amount Accumulated Depreciation Net carrying amount
2018 2017 2018 2017 2018 2017 $ $ $ $ $ $ Land at fair value 203,360 203,360 - - 203,360 203,360 Buildings at fair value 826,500 826,500 (96,205) (49,590) 730,295 776,910
Plant and equipment at fair value 212,506 218,354 (155,395) (136,895) 57,111 81,459
Office furniture and equipment 189,138 189,138 (171,295) (164,922) 17,843 24,216 at fair value Net carrying amount 1,431,504 1,437,353 (422,895) (351,407) 1,008,609 1,085,946
Initial recognition Subsequent measurement Items of property, plant and equipment are measured initially at Property, plant and equipment are subsequently measured cost and subsequently revalued at fair value less accumulated at fair value less accumulated depreciation and impairment. depreciation and impairment. Where an asset is acquired Non-specialised land is valued using the market approach, for no or nominal cost, the cost is its fair value at the date whereby assets are compared to recent comparable sales or of acquisition. Assets transferred as part of a machinery of sales of comparable assets that are considered to have government change are transferred at their carrying amount. nominal value. The market approach is also used for specialised land, although is adjusted for the community service obligation (CSO) to reflect the specialised nature of the land being valued. Specialised buildings are valued using the depreciated replacement cost method. Fair value for plant and equipment and office furniture and equipment that are specialised in use (such that it is rarely sold other than as part of a going concern) is determined using the depreciated replacement cost method. Note 7.3 includes additional information in connection with fair value determination of property, plant and equipment.
4.1.1 Depreciation and impairment
2018 2017 $ $ Charge for the period Buildings 46,615 49,590 Plant and equipment 26,500 29,039 Office furniture & equipment 6,374 12,422 Total depreciation 79,488 91,051
All non-financial physical assets that have finite useful lives are depreciated.
87 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 4 KEY ASSETS AVAILABLE TO SUPPORT OUTPUT DELIVERY (CONT.)
Depreciation is calculated on a straight-line basis at rates that Impairment allocate the asset's value, less any estimated residual value, over Non-financial assets, including items of Property, Plant and its estimated useful life. Typical estimated useful lives for the Equipment, are tested for impairment whenever there is an different asset classes for current and prior years are included in indication that the assets may be impaired. the table below: The assets concerned are tested as to whether their carrying Asset Usefull life value exceeds their recoverable amount. Where an asset’s Buildings 8 - 47 years carrying value exceeds its recoverable amount, the difference is written off as an ‘other economic flow’, except to the extent Plant and equipment 4 - 5 years that it can be debited to an asset revaluation surplus amount Furniture & office equipment 5 - 10 years applicable to that class of asset. Motor vehicles 5 years If there is an indication that there has been a reversal in impairment, the carrying amount shall be increased to its The estimated useful lives, residual values and depreciation recoverable amount. However this reversal should not method are reviewed at the end of each annual reporting increase the asset’s carrying amount above what would have period, and adjustments made where appropriate. been determined, net of depreciation or amortisation, if no impairment loss had been recognised in prior years. Land which is considered to have an indefinite life, is not depreciated. The recoverable amount for most assets is measured at the higher of depreciated replacement cost and fair value less costs to sell. Recoverable amount for assets held primarily to generate net cash inflows is measured at the higher of the present value of future cash flows expected to be obtained from the asset and fair value less costs to sell.
4.1.2 Reconciliation of movements in carrying values of property, plant and equipment
Plant and Office furniture Land at Buildings at equipment at and equipment fair value fair value fair value at fair value Total $ $ $ $ $ 2017-18 Opening balance 203,360 776,910 81,459 24,217 1,085,945 Additions - - 2,152 - 2,152 Disposals - - - - - Depreciation - (46,615) (26,500) (6,374) (79,488) Closing balance 203,360 730,295 57,111 17,843 1,008,609
2016-17 Opening balance 203,360 826,500 71,846 36,638 1,138,344 Additions - - 39,456 - 39,456 Disposals - - (804) - (804) Depreciation - (49,590) (29,039) (12,422) (91,051) Closing balance 203,360 776,910 81,459 24,217 1,085,945
88 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 5 OTHER ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
Introduction 5.1 RECEIVABLES
This section sets out those assets and liabilities that arose Significant judgement: Accrued revenue from the Authority's operations. Accrued revenue represent goods or services that have been delivered but have not been invoiced to the customer. Structure In estimating an amount of accrued revenue, consideration is 5.1 Receivables given to the stage of completion of the services being performed, 5.2 Payables and the extent of the costs incurred that are recoverable. 5.3 Other non-financial assets
2018 2017 $ $ Current receivables Contractual Trade receivables 562,589 27,874 Accrued revenue 31,391 16,537 593,980 44,411 Statutory GST input tax credits recoverable 250,453 168,788 Total current receivables 844,433 213,199
Receivables consists of:
• Contractual receivables are classified as financial instruments and categorised as 'loans and receivables'. They are initially recognised at fair value plus any directly attributable transaction costs. Subsequent to initial measurement they are measured at amortised cost less any impairment.
• Statutory receivables do not arise from contracts and are recognised and measured similarly to contractual receivables (except for impairment), but are not classified as financial instruments.
89 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 5 OTHER ASSETS AND LIABILITIES (CONT.)
5.1.1 Ageing analysis of contractual receivables
Past due but not Carrying Not past due and impaired - Less amount not impaired than 1 month $ $ $ 2018 Receivables: Trade receivables 562,589 562,589 - Accrued revenue 31,391 31,391 - Total 593,980 593,980 -
2017 Receivables: Trade receivables 27,874 9,191 4,400 Accrued revenue 16,537 16,537 - Total 44,411 25,728 4,400
Trade and other receivables are due for settlement 30 days from the end of the month that they were invoiced. There are no material financial assets that are individually determined to be impaired.
5.2 PAYABLES
Significant judgement: Accrued expenses
Accrued expenses represent goods or services that have been received or supplied but have not been invoiced by the supplier. In estimating the amount of an accrued expense, consideration is given to the stage of completion of the services being performed.
2018 2017 $ $ Current Payables Contractual Trade payables - 3,969 Accrued expenses 449,268 270,753 Other payables 5,653 22 454,921 274,744 Statutory Superannuation - 29,747 PAYG payable 66,910 68,926 66,910 98,673 Total current payables 521,831 373,417
Payables consists of:
• Contractual payables and are classified as financial instruments and categorised as 'financial liabilities at amortised cost'. They are initially recognised at fair value plus any directly attributable transaction costs. Subsequent to initial measurement, they are measured at amortised cost.
• Statutory payables are recognised and measured similarly to contractual payables, but are not classified as financial instruments and not included in the category of financial liabilities at amortised cost, because they do not arise from contracts.
90 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 5 OTHER ASSETS AND LIABILITIES (CONT.)
5.2.1 Maturity analysis of contractual payables
Maturity dates Carrying amount Less than 1 month 1-3 months 3-6 months $ $ $ $ 2018 Payables: Trade payables - - - - Accrued expenses 449,268 449,268 - - Other payables 5,653 5,653 - - Total 454,921 454,921 - -
2017 Payables: Trade payables 3,969 3,969 - - Accrued expenses 270,753 270,753 - - Other payables 22 22 - - Total 274,744 274,744 - -
Payables for supplies and services have an average credit period is 30 days.
5.3 OTHER NON-FINANCIAL ASSETS
2018 2017 $ $ Current other assets Prepayments 2,000 4,886 Total current other assets 2,000 4,886
Other non-financial assets include prepayments which represent payments in advance of receipt of goods or services or that part of expenditure made in one accounting period covering a term extending beyond that period.
91 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 6 HOW WE FINANCED OUR OPERATIONS
Introduction 6.1 CASH FLOW INFORMATION AND BALANCES This section provides information on the sources of finance utilised by the Authority during its operations, and other Cash and deposits, including cash equivalents, comprise cash information related to financing activities of the Authority. on hand and cash at bank, deposits at call and those highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months This section includes disclosures of balances that are financial or less, which are held for the purpose of meeting short-term instruments, such as cash balances. Notes 8.2 and 8.3 provide cash commitments rather than for investment purposes, and additional, specific financial instrument disclosures. which are readily convertible to known amounts of cash and are subject to an insignificant risk of changes in value. Structure 6.1 Cash flow information and balances
6.2 Commitments for expenditure
6.3 Carry forward project funding
2018 2017 $ $ Cash and deposits disclosed in the balance sheet: Cash at bank 1,416,255 868,942 Deposits at call 600,000 500,000 Term deposits (less than 3 months) 6,000,000 6,000,000 Balance as per cash flow statement 8,016,255 7,368,942
6.1.1 Reconciliation of net result to cash flow from operating activities
2018 2017 $ $ Net result for the period 964,309 (483,459) Non-cash movements: (Gain)/loss on disposal of non-current assets (2,545) (2,524) Depreciation of non-current assets 79,488 91,051 1,041,252 (394,932) Movements in assets and liabilities: Decrease/(increase) in receivables (631,234) 532,926 Decrease/(increase) in other non-financial assets 2,886 3,518 (Decrease)/increase in payables 148,414 (27,503) (Decrease)/increase in employee related provisions 85,602 132,368 Net cash flows from/(used in) operating activities 646,920 246,378
92 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 6 HOW WE FINANCED OUR OPERATIONS (CONT.)
6.2 COMMITMENTS FOR EXPENDITURE
Commitments for future expenditure include operating lease commitments arising from contracts. These commitments are recorded below at their nominal value and inclusive of GST. These future expenditures cease to be disclosed as commitments once the related liabilities are recognised in the balance sheet.
6.2.1 Total commitments payable
2018 2017 $ $ Operating lease commitments payable Less than 1 year 250,023 253,061 1 to 5 years 211,215 412,846 5 years or more - - Total commitments (inclusive of GST) 461,238 665,907
2018 2017 $ $ Total operating lease commitments payable Total operating lease commitments payable (including GST) 461,238 665,907 Less GST recoverable from ATO (41,931) (60,537) Total operating lease commitments payable (excluding GST) 419,307 605,370
Operating lease commitments relate to office, property and motor vehicles with lease terms between one and three years. These contracts do not allow the Authority to purchase the facilities after the lease ends, but the Authority has the option to renew each of the leases at the end of the lease term.
As at 30 June 2018 the Authority had Nil in finance lease commitments (2017: $Nil).
As at 30 June 2018 the Authority had Nil in capital expenditure commitments (2017: $Nil).
6.3 CARRY FORWARD PROJECT FUNDING
Catchment Management Authorities are responsible for the The projects funded by the State and Commonwealth facilitation and coordination of catchments in an integrated Governments can be undertaken over multiple financial years and sustainable manner. This is achieved by undertaking and is received at various stages of the project life based on projects funded by Victorian and Australian Government contractual agreements. At the end of the financial year there programs. The Authority received funding for specific projects are some projects that have not reached completion but will which are guided by the Regional Catchment Strategy and be completed within the contractual terms in future financial delivered in line with the Authority's Corporate Plan approved periods. At balance date the Authority has cash and cash by the Minister for Water. equivalents that will be utilised to complete these projects in future financial years.
93 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 7 RISKS, CONTINGENCIES AND VALUATION JUDGEMENTS
Introduction 7.1 FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS SPECIFIC DISCLOSURES The Authority is exposed to risk from its activities and outside factors. In addition, it is often necessary to make judgements Introduction and estimates associated with recognition and measurement of items in the financial statements. This section sets out financial Financial instruments arise out of contractual agreements that instrument specific information, (including exposures to financial give rise to a financial asset of one entity and a financial liability risks) as well as those items that are contingent in nature or of equity instrument of another entity. require a high level of judgement to be applied, which for the Authority relate mainly to fair value determination. Categories of financial instruments Loans and receivables are financial instrument assets with fixed Structure and determinable payments that are not quoted in an active 7.1 Financial instruments specific disclosures market. These assets are initially recognised at fair value plus any directly attributable transaction costs. Subsequent to initial 7.2 Contingent assets and contingent liabilities measurement, loans and receivables are measured at amortised 7.3 Fair value determination cost less any impairment. Loans and receivables category includes cash and deposits, trade and other receivables, but exclude statutory receivables.
Collectability of trade receivables is reviewed on an ongoing basis. Bad debts which are known to be uncollectible are written off, and classified as a transaction expense. A provision for impaired receivables is established when there is objective evidence that the Authority will not be able to collect all amounts due according to the original terms of receivables.
Financial liabilities at amortised cost are initially recognised on the date they originated. They are initially measured at fair value plus any directly attributable transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition, these financial instruments are measured at amortised cost. Financial instrument liabilities measured at amortised cost include all of the Authority's contractual payables.
A financial liability is derecognised when the obligation under the liability is discharged, cancelled or expires.
94 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 7 RISKS, CONTINGENCIES AND VALUATION JUDGEMENTS (CONT.)
7.1.1 Financial instruments: Categorisation
Contractual financial Contractual assets - loans and financial liabilities receivables at amortised cost Total $ $ $ 2018 Contractual financial assets Cash and deposits 8,016,255 - 8,016,255 Receivables: (i) Trade receivables 562,589 - 562,589 Accrued revenue 31,391 - 31,391 Total contractual financial assets 8,610,235 - 8,610,235
Contractual financial liabilities Payables: (i) Trade payables - - - Accrued expenses - 449,268 449,268 Other payables - 5,653 5,653 Total contractual financial liabilities - 454,921 454,921
2017 Contractual financial assets Cash and deposits 7,368,942 - 7,368,942 Receivables: (i) Trade receivables 27,874 - 27,874 Accrued revenue 16,537 - 16,537 Total contractual financial assets 7,413,353 - 7,413,353
Contractual financial liabilities Payables: (i) Trade payables - 3,969 3,969 Accrued expenses - 270,753 270,753 Other payables - 22 22 Total contractual financial liabilities - 274,744 274,744
(i) The total amounts disclosed here exclude statutory amounts.
95 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 7 RISKS, CONTINGENCIES AND VALUATION JUDGEMENTS (CONT.)
7.1.2 Financial risk management objectives and policies Liquidity risk The Authority's main financial risks include credit risk, liquidity Liquidity risk arises from being unable to meet financial risk and interest rate risk. The Authority manages these financial obligations as they fall due. The Authority operates under the risks in accordance with its financial risk management policy. Government fair payments policy of settling financial obligations within 30 days and in the event of a dispute, making payments The Authority uses different methods to measure and manage within 30 days from the date of resolution. the different risks to which it is exposed. Primary responsibility for the identification and management of financial risks rests The Authority's exposure to liquidity risk is deemed insignificant with the financial risk management committee of the Authority. based on prior periods' data and current assessment of risk. The Authority does not have any borrowings, and maintains Credit risk high levels of cash and deposits readily available to meet its financial obligations. The Authority manages its liquidity risk by Credit risk refers to the possibility that a borrower will default maintaining adequate cash reserves and continually monitoring on its financial obligations as and when they fall due. The the Authority's expenditure commitments and cash flow needs. Authority’s exposure to credit risk arises from the potential default of a counter party on their contractual obligations Market risk resulting in financial loss to the Authority. Credit risk is measured at fair value and is monitored on a regular basis. The Authority's exposure to market risk is primarily through interest rate risk with significant surplus funds held in term Credit risk associated with the Authority's contractual financial deposits and deposits at a call. The Authority has no exposure assets is minimal because the main debtor is the Victorian to foreign exchange risk or other price risk. Government. For debtors other than the Government, the Authority has adopted a policy of only dealing with Cash flow interest rate risk is the risk that the future cash flows creditworthy counterparties and obtaining sufficient collateral of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in where appropriate. For cash assets, the Authority's policy is market interest rates. The Authority manages its cash flow to only deal with banks with high credit-ratings assigned by interest rate risks by investing surplus funds into fixed rate international credit-rating agencies. All cash and deposits are financial instruments. Management has concluded for cash at held with the Treasury Corporation of Victoria and National bank and deposits at call as financial assets that can be left Australia Bank. at floating rate without necessarily exposing the Authority to significant risk. Management monitors movements in interest rates on a daily basis.
Interest rate risk The carrying amounts of financial assets and financial liabilities that are exposed to interest rates and the Authority's sensitivity to interest rate risk are set out in the table that follows.
96 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 7 RISKS, CONTINGENCIES AND VALUATION JUDGEMENTS (CONT.)
Interest rate exposure of financial instruments
Interest rate exposure Weighted average Carrying Fixed Variable Non-interest interest rate amount interest rate interest rate bearing % $ $ $ $ 2018 Financial assets Cash and deposits 1.90 8,016,255 6,000,000 2,016,255 - Contractual receivables - 593,980 - - 593,980 Total financial assets 8,610,235 6,000,000 2,016,255 593,980
Financial liabilities Contractual payables - 454,921 - - 454,921 Total financial liabilities 454,921 - - 454,921
2017 Financial assets Cash and deposits 2.02 7,368,942 6,000,000 1,368,942 - Contractual receivables - 44,411 - - 44,411 Total financial assets 7,413,353 6,000,000 1,368,942 44,411
Financial liabilities Contractual payables - 274,744 - - 274,744 Total financial liabilities 274,744 - - 274,744
Interest rate risk sensitivity The sensitivity analysis below shows the impact on the Authority's net result and equity for a movement of 100 basis points up and down in market interest rates.
Interest rate
-100 basis points +100 basis points Carrying amount Net result Equity Net result Equity $ $ $ $ $ 2018 Cash and deposits (i) 8,016,255 (20,163) (20,163) 20,163 20,163
2017 Cash and deposits (i) 7,368,942 (13,689) (13,689) 13,689 13,689
(i) Cash and deposits includes $2,016,255 (2016: $1,368,942) that is exposed to floating rates movements. Sensitivities to these movements are calculated as follows:
• 2018: $2,016,255 x -0.01 = -$20,163; and $2,016,255 x 0.01 = $20,163.
• 2017: $1,368,942 x -0.01 = -$13,689; and $1,368,942 x 0.01 = $13,689.
97 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 7 RISKS, CONTINGENCIES AND VALUATION JUDGEMENTS (CONT.)
7.2 CONTINGENT ASSETS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES
Contingent assets and contingent liabilities are not recognised in the balance sheet but are disclosed and, if quantifiable, are measured at nominal value.
Contingent Assets As at 30 June 2018, the Authority has no known contingent assets.
Contingent Liabilities As at 30 June 2018, the Authority has no known contingent liabities.
7.3 FAIR VALUE DETERMINATION
Significant judgement: Fair value measurements of assets 7.3.1 Fair value determination of financial assets and liabilities and liabilities Fair value determination requires judgement and the use The Authority currently holds a range of financial instruments of assumptions. This section discloses the most significant that are recorded in the financial statements where the carrying assumptions used in determining fair values. Changes to amounts are a reasonable approximation of fair value, either due assumptions could have a material impact on the results and to their short-term nature or with the expectation that they will financial position of the Authority. be paid in full by the end of the 2017-18 reporting period.
The Authority's Property, plant and equipment are carried at These financial instruments include: fair value. Financial assets In addition, the fair values of other assets and liabilities which Cash and deposits are carried at amortised cost, also need to be determined for Receivables: disclosure purposes. • Τrade receivables The Authority determines the policies and procedures for • Accrued revenue determining fair values for both financial and non-financial Financial liabilities assets and liabilities as required. Payables: • Τrade payables Fair value hierarchy • Accrued expenses • Other payables In determining fair values a number of inputs are used. To increase consistency and comparability in the financial statements, these inputs are categorised into three levels, also known as the fair value hierarchy. The levels are as follows:
• Level 1 – Quoted (unadjusted) market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities;
• Level 2 – Valuation techniques for which the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement is directly or indirectly observable; and
• Level 3 – Valuation techniques for which the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement is unobservable.
The Authority determines whether transfers have occurred between levels in the hierarchy by reassessing categorisation (based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement as a whole) at the end of each reporting period.
98 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 7 RISKS, CONTINGENCIES AND VALUATION JUDGEMENTS (CONT.)
7.3.1 Fair value determination: Non-financial physical assets
Fair value measurement hierarchy
Carrying Fair Value measurement at end of reporting period using: amount as at 30 June 2018 Level 1(i) Level 2(i) Level 3(i) $ $ $ $ Land at Fair Value Non-specialised land 203,360 - 203,360 - Total Land at Fair Value 203,360 - 203,360 -
Buildings at Fair Value Specialised buildings 730,295 - - 730,295 Total Buildings at Fair Value 730,295 - - 730,295
Plant and equipment at Fair Value Plant and equipment 57,111 - - 57,111 Total Plant and equipment at Fair Value 57,111 - - 57,111
Office furniture and equipment at Fair Value Office furniture and equipment 17,843 - - 17,843 Total Office furniture and equipment at Fair Value 17,843 - - 17,843
Note: (i) Classified in accordance with the fair value hierarchy, see Note 7.3.
Carrying Fair Value measurement at end of reporting period using: amount as at 30 June 2017 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 $ $ $ $ Land at Fair Value Non-specialised land 203,360 - 203,360 - Total Land at Fair Value 203,360 - 203,360 -
Buildings at Fair Value Specialised buildings 776,910 - - 776,910 Total Buildings at Fair Value 776,910 - - 776,910
Plant and equipment at Fair Value Plant and equipment 81,459 - - 81,459 Total Plant and equipment at Fair Value 81,459 - - 81,459
Office furniture and equipment at Fair Value Office furniture and equipment 24,217 - - 24,217 Total Office furniture and equipment at Fair Value 24,217 - - 24,217
99 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 7 RISKS, CONTINGENCIES AND VALUATION JUDGEMENTS (CONT.)
Non-specialised land and non-specialised buildings Plant and equipment and Office furniture and equipment Non-specialised land is valued using the market approach. Plant and equipment and office furniture and equipment is held Under this valuation method, the assets are compared to recent at fair value. When plant and equipment or office furniture and comparable sales or sales of comparable assets which are equipment is specialised in use, such that it is rarely sold other considered to have nominal or no added improvement value, than as part of a going concern, fair value is determined using and are classified as Level 2 fair value measurements. the depreciated replacement cost method. As depreciation adjustments are considered as significant, unobservable inputs For non-specialised land, an independent valuation was in nature, these assets are classified as Level 3 fair value performed by the Valuer-General Victoria (VGV) to determine measurements. the fair value using the market approach. Valuation of the assets was determined by analysing comparable sales and allowing There were no changes in valuation techniques throughout the for share, size, topography, location and other relevant factors period to 30 June 2018. specific to the asset being valued. From the sales analysed, an For all assets measured at fair value, the current use is appropriate rate per square metre was applied to the subject considered the highest and best use. asset. The effective date of the valuation was 30 June 2016.
For the Authority's specialised buildings, the depreciated replacement cost method is used, adjusting for the associated depreciations. As depreciation adjustments are considered as significant, unobservable inputs in nature, specialised buildings are classified as Level 3 fair value measurements.
100 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 7 RISKS, CONTINGENCIES AND VALUATION JUDGEMENTS (CONT.)
Reconciliation of Level 3 fair value movements
Specialised Plant and Office furniture buildings equipment and equipment $ $ $ 2017-18 Opening Balance 776,910 81,459 24,217 Purchases (sales) - 2,152 - Depreciation (46,615) (26,500) (6,374) Gains or losses recognised in net result - - - Subtotal 730,295 57,111 17,843 Closing Balance 730,295 57,111 17,843
2016-17 Opening Balance 826,500 71,846 36,638 Purchases (sales) - 38,652 - Depreciation (49,590) (29,039) (12,422) Subtotal 776,910 81,459 24,217 Closing Balance 776,910 81,459 24,217
Description of significant unobservable inputs to Level 3 valuations
Valuation technique Significant unobservable inputs Direct cost per square metre Specialised buildings Depreciated replacement cost Useful life of specialised buildings Cost per unit Plant and equipment Depreciated replacement cost Useful life of plant and equipment Cost per unit Office furniture and equipment Depreciated replacement cost Useful life of furniture and equipment
Significant unobservable inputs have remained unchanged since June 2016.
101 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 8 OTHER DISCLOSURES
Introduction Structure This section provides additional material disclosures required 8.1 Ex-gratia expenses by accounting standards or otherwise, for the understanding of 8.2 Other economic flows included in net result this financial report. 8.3 Reserves 8.4 Responsible persons 8.5 Remuneration of executive officers 8.6 Related parties 8.7 Remuneration of auditors 8.8 Subsequent events
8.9 Australian Accounting Standards issued that are not yet effective
8.1 EX-GRATIA EXPENSES
The Authority had no Ex-gratia expenses for the year ending 30 June 2018 (2017 $0).
8.2 OTHER ECONOMIC FLOWS INCLUDED IN NET RESULT
Other economic flows measure the change in volume or value of assets or liabilities that do not result from transactions.
2018 2017 $ $ Net gain/(loss) on non-financial assets Proceeds from sale of non-financial assets 2,545 3,327 Less written down value - (804) Impairment of property, plant & equipment - - Total net gain/(loss) on disposal of non-financial assets 2,545 2,523
Other gain/(loss) from other economic flows Net gain/(loss) arising from revaluation of long service liability (933) 30,888 Total other gain/(loss) from other economic flows (933) 30,888
8.3 RESERVES
2018 2017 $ $ Physical asset revaluation surplus: (i) Balance at beginning of financial year 461,194 461,194 Revaluation decrements - - Balance at end of financial year 461,194 461,194
Total Reserves 461,194 461,194
(i) The physical assets revaluation surplus arises on the revaluation of land and buildings.
102 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 8 OTHER DISCLOSURES (CONT.)
8.4 RESPONSIBLE PERSONS
In accordance with the Ministerial Directions issued by the Minister for Finance under the Financial Management Act 1994, the following disclosures are made regarding responsible persons for the reporting period
The names of the persons who were responsible persons of the Authority at any time during the financial year were:
Name Position Date held position The Hon. Lisa Neville, MP Minister for Water 01 Jul 2017 to 30 Jun 2018
The Hon. Liliana D'Ambrosio Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change 01 Jul 2017 to 30 Jun 2018
Antony Ford (Chair) 01 Jul 2017 to 30 Jun 2018
Debbie Shea (Board Member & Deputy Chair) 01 Jul 2017 to 30 Jun 2018
Kevin Wood (CEO) 01 Jul 2017 to 28 Feb 2018
Adam Bester (CEO) 01 Mar 2018 to 30 Jun 2018
Damien Bell (Board Member) 01 Jul 2017 to 30 Jun 2018
Michelle Casanova (Board Member) 01 Jul 2017 to 30 Jun 2018
Georgina Gubbins (Board Member) 01 Jul 2017 to 30 Jun 2018
Dr John Sherwood (Board Member) 01 Jul 2017 to 30 Jun 2018
Ian Hasting (Board Member) 01 Jul 2017 to 30 Sept 2017
Michael Wagg (Board Member) 01 Jul 2017 to 30 Sept 2017
Karen Wales (Board Member) 01 Jul 2017 to 30 Sept 2017
Chistine Giles (Board Member) 01 Oct 2017 to 30 Jun 2018
Phillip Saunders (Board Member) 01 Oct 2017 to 30 Jun 2018
Remuneration Remuneration received or receivable by the Accountable Officer in connection with the management of the Glenelg Hopkins CMA during the reporting period was in the range of $210,000-$219,999 ($200,000-$209,000 in 2016-17).
Note: In March 2018 Adam Bester replaced Kevin Wood as CEO of Glenelg Hopkins CMA following his retirement.
2018 2017 Income band $ $
$0 - $9,999 5 0
$10,000 - $19,999 5 8
$20,000 - $29,999 1 1
$60,000 - $69,999 1 0
$160,000 - $169,999 1 0
$200,000 - $209,999 0 1
Total numbers 13 10
Total Remuneration $329,179 $321,641
103 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 8 OTHER DISCLOSURES (CONT.)
8.5 REMUNERATION OF EXECUTIVE OFFICERS Post-employment benefits include pensions and other retirement benefits paid or payable or a discrete basis when The number of executive officers, other than ministers and employment has ceased. accountable officers, and their total remuneration during the reporting period are shown in the table below. Total annualised Other long-term benefits include long service leave, other long- employee equivalents provides a measure of full time equivalent service benefit or deferred compensation. executive officers over the reporting period. Termination benefits include termination of employment Remuneration comprises employee benefits in all forms of payments, such as severance packages. consideration paid, payable or provided by the entity, or on behalf of the entity, in exchange for services rendered, and is disclosed in the following categories.
Short-term employee benefits include amounts such as wages, salaries, annual leave or sick leave that are usually paid or payable on a regular basis, as well as non-monetary benefits such as allowances and free or subsidised goods or services.
2018 2017 Remuneration $ $
Short-term employee benefits 398,178 379,822 Post-employment benefits 37,112 36,963 Other long-term benefits 13,264 11,091 Termination benefits - - Total remuneration 448,554 427,876 Total number or executives (i) 3.0 3.0 Total annualised employee equivalents (ii) 3 3
(i) The total number of executive officers includes persons who meet the definition of Key Management Personnel (KMP) of the entity under AASB 124 Related Party Disclosures and are also reported within the related parties note disclosure (Note 8.6)
(ii) Annualised employee equivalent is based on the time fraction worked over the reporting period.
8.6 RELATED PARTIES
Related parties of the Authority include:
• all key management personnel and their close family members and personal business interests (controlled entities, joint ventures and entities they have significant influence over);
• all cabinet ministers and their close family members; and
• all departments and public sector entitles that are controlled and consolidated into the whole of state consolidated financial statements.
All related party transactions have been entered into on an arm's length basis.
104 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 8 OTHER DISCLOSURES (CONT.)
Significant transactions with government-related entities
During the year, the Authority received significant funding from the following government-related entities:
Funding received Entity $
Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning 8,935,722
Department of Treasury & Finance 1,984,067
Victorian Environment Water Holder 164,365
Wimmera CMA 150,000
During the year, the Authority made significant payments to the following government-related entities:
Funding received Entity $
Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning 265,475 State Revenue Office Victoria 129,079
Trust for Nature 70,180
West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority 51,175
Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport & Resources 59,400
Key management personnel Key management personnel are those persons having authority and responsibility for planning, directing, and controlling the activities of the Authority, directly or indirectly, this comprises of Directors and the CEO.
Key management personnel include all Responsbile persons as listed in Note 8.4.
The compensation detailed below excludes the salaries and benefits the Portfolio Ministers receives. The Ministers remuneration and allowances is set by the Parliamentary Salaries and Superannuation Act 1968 and is reported within the Department of Parliamentary Services’ Financial Report.
2018 2017 Compensation of KMPs $ $
Short-term employee benefits 692,425 548,956
Post-employment benefits 64,923 54,395 Other long-term benefits 20,385 16,743 Termination benefits - - Total 777,733 620,094
Transactions with key management personnel and other related parties Given the breadth and depth of State government activities, related parties transact with the Victorian public sector in a manner consistent with other members of the public. Further employment processes within the Victorian public sector occur on terms and conditions consistent with the Public Administration Act 2004 and Codes of Conduct and Standards issued by the Victorian Public Sector Commission. Procurement processes occur on terms and conditions consistent with the Victorian Government Purchasing Board requirements.
There were no significant related party transactions or balances that involved key management personnel, their close family members and their personal business interest.
105 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 8 OTHER DISCLOSURES (CONT.)
8.7 REMUNERATION OF AUDITORS
2018 2017 $ $
Victorian Auditor-General’s Office for audit of financial statements 10,300 10,000
Internal audit costs 35,320 36,430 Total remuneration of auditors 45,620 46,430
8.8 SUBSEQUENT EVENTS No matters or circumstances have arisen since the end of the reporting period which significantly affected or may significantly affect the operations of the authority, the results of those operations, or the state of affairs of the authority in future financial years.
8.9 AUSTRALIAN ACCOUNTING STANDARDS ISSUED THAT ARE NOT YET EFFECTIVE Certain new Australian Accounting Standards (AAS) have been published that are not mandatory for the 30 June 2018 reporting period. DTF assesses the impact of all these new standards and advises the Authority of their applicability and early adoption where applicable. The following is a list of the AASs issued but are not yet effective for the 2017-18 reporting period.
Applicable for annual Standard / Interpretation Summary reporting periods Impact on financial statements beginning on or after AASB 9 The key changes include the simplified 1 January 2018 The assessment has identified that the Financial Instruments requirements for the classification and amendments are likely to result in earlier measurement of financial assets, a new recognition of impairment losses and at hedging accounting model and a revised more regular intervals. While there be no impairment loss model to recognise significant impact arising from AASB 9, impairment losses earlier, as opposed there will be a change to the way financial to the current approach that recognises instruments are disclosed. impairment only when incurred. AASB 15 The core principle of AASB 15 requires 1 January 2019 The changes in revenue recognition Revenue from Contracts with an entity to recognise revenue when the requirements in AASB 15 may result Customers entity satisfies a performance obligation by in changes to the timing and amount transferring a promised good or service to of revenue recorded in the financial a customer. statements. The Standard will also require additional disclosures on service revenue and contract modifications. Impact could likely include deferring any grants received. AASB 16 The key changes introduced by AASB 16 1 January 2019 The assesesment has indicated that as Leases include the recognition of most operating most the Authority's operating leases will leases (which are currently not recognised) come on the balance sheet, recognition of on balance sheet. the right-of-use assets and lease liabilities will cause net debt to increase. Rather than expensing the lease payments, depreciation of right-of-use assets and interest on lease liabilities will be recognised in the income statement with marginal impact on the operating surplus. No change for lessors.
106 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 8 OTHER DISCLOSURES (CONT.)
Applicable for annual Standard / Interpretation Summary reporting periods Impact on financial statements beginning on or after AASB 2010-7 The requirements for classifying and 1 January 2018 The assessment has indicated there will Amendments to Australian measuring financial liabilities were added be no significant impact on the Authority's Accounting Standards arising to AASB 9. The existing requirements for financial statements. from AASB 9 (December the classification of financial liabilities and 2010) [AASB 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, the ability to use the fair value option have 101, 102, 108, 112, 118, been retained. However, where the fair 120, 121, 127, 128, 131, value option is used for financial liabilities 132, 136, 137, 139, 1023 & the change in fair value is accounted for 1038 and Interpretations 2, as follows: 5, 10, 12, 19 & 127] • the change in fair value attributable to changes in credit risk is presented in other comprehensive income (OCI); and • other fair value changes are presented in profit or loss. If this approach creates or enlarges an accounting mismatch in the profit or loss, the effect of the changes in credit risk are also presented in profit or loss. AASB 2014-1 Amends various AASs to reflect the 1 January 2018 This amending standard will defer the Amendments to Australian AASB's decision to defer the mandatory application period of AASB 9 to the Accounting Standards application date of AASB 9 to annual 2018-19 reporting period in accordance [Part E Financial Instruments] reporting periods beginning on or after with the transition requirements. 1 January 2018 as a consequence of Chapter 6 Hedge Accounting, and to amend reduced disclosure requirements. AASB 2014-5 Amends the measurement of trade 1 Jan 2018, except The assessment has indicated that there Amendments to Australian receivables and the recognition of amendments to will be no significant impact on the Accounting Standards arising dividends. AASB 9 (December Authority's financial statements. from AASB 15 2009) and AASB 9 Trade receivables, that do not have a (December 2010) significant financing component, are to apply 1 Jan 2018 be measured at their transaction price, at initial recognition. Dividends are recognised in the profit and loss only when: • the entity's right to receive payment of the dividend is established; • it is probable that the economic benefits associated with the dividend will flow to the entity; and • the amount can be measured reliably. AASB 2014-7 Amends various AASs to incorporate the 1 Jan 2018 The assessment has indicated that there Amendments to Australian consequential amendments arising from will be no significant impact on the Accounting Standards arising the issuance of AASB 9. Authority's financial statements. from AASB 9 AASB 1058 This standard replaces AASB 1004 1 Jan 2019 The assessment has indicated that Income of Not-for-Profit Contributions and establishes revenue revenue from capital grants that are Entities recognition principles for transactions provided under an enforceable agreement where the consideration to acquire an that have sufficiently specific obligations, asset is significantly less than fair value to will now be deferred and recognised as enable to not-for-profit entity to further its performance obligations are satisfied. As objectives. a result, the timing recognition of revenue will change.
107 DISCLOSURE INDEX
The Annual Report of the Glenelg Hopkins CMA is prepared in accordance with all relevant Victorian legislation. This index has been prepared to facilitate identification of the Authority’s compliance with statutory disclosure requirements.
Legislation Requirement Page
Report of Operations – FRD Guidance
Charter and purpose
FRD 22H Manner of establishment and the relevant Ministers 9
FRD 22H Objectives, functions, powers and duties 9
FRD 22H Nature and range of services provided 9
Management and structure
FRD 22H Organisational Structure 63
FRD 22H Human Resource Management 64
FRD 22H, SD 3.2.1 Audit Committee Membership and Roles 61
Financial and other information
FRD 10A Disclosure index 108
FRD 11A Disclosure of Ex-gratia Payments 102
FRD 12B Disclosure of major contracts 67
FRD 15E Executive Officer Disclosures 104
FRD 22H Five-year summary of financial results 56
FRD 22H SD 5.2 Operational and budgetary objectives and performance against objectives 10
FRD 22H Employment and conduct principles 65
FRD 22H Consultancy Expenditure 67
FRD 29C Statement of Workforce Data 65
FRD 22H Occupational health and safety policy 66
FRD 22H Summary of the financial results for the year 56
FRD 22H Significant changes in financial position during the year 56
FRD 22H Major changes or factors affecting performance 56
FRD 22H Subsequent events 56
FRD 22H Application and operation of the Freedom of Information Act 1982 68
FRD 22H Compliance with building and maintenance provisions of Building Act 1993 68
FRD 22H Competitive neutrality policy 68
FRD 22H Application and operation of the Protected Disclosures Act 2012 68-69
FRD 22H Details of consultancies over $100,000 67
FRD 22H Details of consultancies under $100,000 67
FRD 22H Statement of availability of other information 69
FRD 22H Standard Disclosures in the Report of Operations 73
FRD 24D Office-based environmental impacts 70
FRD 25C Victorian Industry Participation Policy disclosures 67
FRD 30D Standard requirements for the design and print of Annual Reports 5
SD 5.1.4 Financial management compliance attestation 71
FRD 22H Government Advertising Expenditure 67
108 DISCLOSURE INDEX
Legislation Requirement Page
FRD 22H Information and Communication Technology Expenditure 67
SD 4.2(g) General information requirements 1-70
SD 5.2.3 Sign-off requirements 4
Financial Report
Financial statements required under Part 7 of the FMA
SD 5.2(a) Statement of Changes in Equity 79
SD 5.2(b) Comprehensive Operating Statement 76
SD 5.2(a)(d)(e)(f) Balance Sheet 77
SD 5.2(b) Cash flow Statement 78
Other requirements under Standing Directions 4.2
SD 5.2.1(a) Compliance with Australian accounting standards and other authoritative pronouncements 106-107
SD 5.2.1(a) Compliance with Ministerial Directions 73
SD 5.2(c) Accountable officer’s declaration 73
Other disclosures as required by FRDs in notes to the financial statements
FRD 103G Non-current physical assets 87-88, 99-101
FRD 112D Defined benefit superannuation obligations 85
FRD 120I Accounting and reporting pronouncements applicable to the 2017-18 reporting period 80, 106-107
Legislation Freedom of Information Act 1982 Financial Management Act 1994
Building Act 1993 Public Administration Act 2004
Protected Disclosure Act 2012 Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994
Victorian Industry Participation Policy Act 2003 Audit Act 1994
Financial Management Act 1994 Emergency Management Act 2013
Water Act 1989 Planning & Environment Act 1987
109 GLOSSARY
ABC Actions for Biodiversity Conservation IWC Index of Wetland Condition
ARI Arthur Rylah Institute LGA Local Government Agencies
ARRC Australian River Restoration Centre MERI Monitor Evaluate Report and Improvement
BA Birdlife Australia NCP National Competition Policy
BAU Business as Usual NGO Non-Government Organisation
BGLC Barengi Gadjin Land Council NLP National Landcare Program
CEO Chief Executive Officer NRM Natural Resource Management
CFA Country Fire Authority NDRRA National Disaster and Recovery Relief Arrangements CMA Catchment Management Authority Non-BAU Non-Business As Usual CVA Conservation Volunteers Australia OCOC Our Catchments Our Communities Cwlth Commonwealth OH&S Occupational Health and Safety DEDJTR Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources PV Parks Victoria
DELWP Department of Environment, Land, Water PAA Public Administration Act and Planning RCS Regional Catchment Strategy DIWA Directory of Important Wetlands RLC Regional Landcare Coordinator DTR Department of Treasury and Finance RLF Regional Landcare Facilitator ECs Ecological Communities RFMS Regional Floodplain Management Strategy ECs Ecological Communities RNVP Regional Native Vegetation Plan EEFAM Estuary Environmental Flows Assessment Method RWMS Regional Waterway Management Strategy
EEMSS Estuary Entrance Management Support System SCA Stock Containment Area
EPBC Environment Protection and Biodiversity SMWG Staff Management Work Group Conservation VLG Victorian Landcare Grants EVC Ecological Vegetation Communities VVP Victorian Volcanic Plains EWR Environmental Water Reserve VAGO Victorian Auditor-General’s Office GLaWAC Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation VCMC Victorian Catchment Management Council
GMTOAC Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners VEPP Victorian Environment Partnerships Program Aboriginal Corporation VEWH Victorian Environmental Water Holder GWMWater Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water VFMS Victorian Floodplain Management Strategy IBA Important Bird Areas VPSC Victorian Public Sector Commission IBAC Independent Broad-based Anti-Corruption VicSES Victoria State Emergency Service Commission VWMS Victorian Waterway Management Strategy ICT Information Communication Technology VWPIF Victorian Water Program Investment IEC Index of Estuary Condition Framework ISC Index of Stream Condition WAP Waterway Action Plan ISC3 Index of Stream Conditions 2010 WESI Weed at Early Stages of Invasion Protocols
110 ENDNOTES i Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, xviii Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Glenelg Hopkins CMA Climate Framework for Catchment Condition and Management Change Strategy, Responding to Climate Change in the Reporting in Victoria, Indicators and Data, Version 1.3 – Glenelg Hopkins Region 2016-2023, Glenelg Hopkins November 2015, Department of Environment, Land, Water CMA, Hamilton, 2016. and Planning, East Melbourne, 2015. xix VAJ Doerr, KJ Williams, M Drielsma, ED Doerr, J Love, ii Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Glenelg Hopkins Waterways Strategy A Langston, S Low Choy, G Manion, EM Cawsey, HM 2014-2022, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton, 2014. McInnes, T Javanovic, D Crawfors, M Austin, S Ferrier, iii Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Glenelg Hopkins Waterways Strategy Designing landscapes for biodiversity under climate 2014-2022, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton, 2014. change, National Climate Change Adaptation Research Facility, Gold Coast, 2013. iv Casanova, M. Current and Future Risks of Cropping Wetlands in Victoria: Technical Report, Department of Environment, xx Fenner School of the Environment, Australian National Land, Water and Planning, East Melbourne, 2016. University, Australia’s Environment Explorer 2016, viewed 3 March 2017, (www.ausenv.online) v Department of Environment and Primary Industries, Index of Stream Condition: The Third Benchmark of Victorian xxi Fenner School of the Environment, Australian National River Condition ISC3, Department of Environment and University, Australia’s Environment Explorer 2016, viewed Primary Industries, East Melbourne, 2013. 3 March 2017, (www.ausenv.online) vi Department of Environment and Primary Industries, Index xxii NM Baxter and NJ Robinson, Land Resource Assessment of Stream Condition: The Third Benchmark of Victorian in the Glenelg Hopkins Region, Department of Natural River Condition ISC3, Department of Environment and Resources and Environment, Epsom, 2001. Primary Industries, East Melbourne, 2013. xxiii Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Glenelg Hopkins Soil Health vii Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Glenelg Hopkins Waterways Strategy Strategy 2014-2019, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton, 2014-2022, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton, 2014. 2014. viii Pope, A.J, Barton, J.L. and Quinn, G.P., Victorian Index of xxiv Australian Bureau of Statistics, 75030DO002_201617 Estuary Condition: Implementation Trial Final Report. Report Value of Agricultural Commodities Produced, Australia, by the School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin 2016-17. University for the Department of Environment, Land, Water xxv Core Environmental Indicators for Reporting on the and Planning, Warrnambool, 2015. State of the Environment, Australian and New Zealand ix https://mailchi.mp/19e212239bc2/the-latest-news- Environment and Conservation Council, State of the from-the-victorian-water-and-climate-initiative- Environment Reporting Task Force, March 2000. P.42 244651?e=fc25ce3320 xxvi Australian National University - Fenner School of the x Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Glenelg Hopkins Regional Environment and Society, Australia’s Environment Catchment Strategy 2013-2019, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Explorer 2016, Australian National University, Hamilton, 2013. Canberra, viewed 3 March 2017, http://wenfo.org/ ausenv/#/2016/Exposed_soil/Grid/Actual/NRM_Regions/ xi Victorian Environmental Assessment Council, Remnant bar,options/-37.68/142.60/9/Glenelg%20Hopkins/ Native Vegetation Investigation – Final Report. Victorian Roadmap/Opaque Environmental Assessment Council, East Melbourne, 2011. xxvii https://www.standard.net.au/story/5294347/how-the-st- xii Victorian Environmental Assessment Council, Remnant patricks-day-fires-devastated-the-south-west/. Accessed Native Vegetation Investigation – Final Report. Victorian 15 July 2018. Environmental Assessment Council, East Melbourne, 2011. xxviii Australia’s Environment Explorer 2017, Australian xiii Victorian Environmental Assessment Council, Remnant National University. http://wenfo.org/ausenv/#/2017/ Native Vegetation Investigation – Final Report. Victorian Exposed_soil/Grid/Actual/NRM_Regions/bar,timeseries,o Environmental Assessment Council, East Melbourne, 2011. ptions/-36.19/145.87/7/Glenelg%20Hopkins/Roadmap/ xiv Victorian Environmental Assessment Council, Remnant Opaque Native Vegetation Investigation – Final Report. Victorian xxix Department of Climate Change, Climate risks to Australia’s Environmental Assessment Council, East Melbourne, 2011. coasts: a first pass national assessment, Australian xv Victorian Environmental Assessment Council, Remnant Government, Canberra, 2009. Native Vegetation Investigation – Final Report. Victorian xxx Victorian Coastal Council, Victorian Coastal Strategy 2014, Environmental Assessment Council, East Melbourne, 2011. Victorian Coastal Council, East Melbourne, 2014. xvi Victorian Environmental Assessment Council, Remnant xxxi Butcher, R et al., Ecological Character Description for Native Vegetation Investigation – Final Report. Victorian Glenelg Estuary and Discovery Bay Wetland Complex: Environmental Assessment Council, East Melbourne, 2011. Report to the Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management xvii Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Glenelg Hopkins CMA Climate Authority, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Hamilton, 2015. Change Strategy, Responding to Climate Change in the xxxii United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Glenelg Hopkins Region 2016-2023, Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Organisation, Budj Bim Cultural Landscape, Accessed 14 Hamilton, 2016. July 2017, http://whc.unesco.org/en/tentativelists/6167/
111 79 French Street, Hamilton, Vic 3300 T: 03 5571 2526 F: 03 5571 2935 E: [email protected] www.ghcma.vic.gov.au