Contents

Introduction to Landscape Setting Types 3 Key to Landscape Setting Types for the Victorian Coast 4 Landscape Setting Types 6 1 Nelson Lower Coastal Plain - Nel::,011 lo B1iJyewdle1 Ldkes 6 2 The Three Capes - Bridgewater Lakes to Portland 7 3 Portland Lower Coastal Plain - Portland to 8 4 Tower Hill - Port Fairy to Warrnambool 9 5 Coastal Cliffs and Twelve Apostles - Warrnambool to Princetown 10 6 Moonlight Head - Princetown to Glenaire 11 7 - Glenaire to Elliott River 12 8 Great Ocean Road/Cape Patton - Elliott River to Anglesea 13 9 Lower Coastal Plains with Features - Anglesea to the Heads 14 10 The Heads - Point Nepean, Point Lonsdale and Queenscliff 15 11 Rural Flat and Undulating with Features - to Geelong 16 12 Geelong - Point Henry to 17 13 Rural Flatlands with Features - Limeburners Bay to Williamstown 18 14 - Williamstown to Elwood 19 15 Urban/Suburban Flatlands and Low Cliffs - Elwood to Mentone 20 16 Urban and Suburban Flatlands - Mentone to Frankston 21 17 Suburban Bushland Escarpment - Frankston to Safety Beach 22 18 Urban/Semi Urban Flatlands - Safety Beach to Portsea 23 19 Back Beach - Point Nepean to Cape Schanck 24 20 Cape Schanck - Cape Schanck to Flinders 25 21 Heads - Flinders to 26 22 Lower Cliffs - Flinders to Stony Point 27 23 Western Port Lowlands - Stony Point to San Remo 28 24 Western Port Islands - Phillip/Churchill/French Islands 29 25 Anderson Peninsula - San Remo to 30 26 - Kilcunda to Arch Rock/Morgan Beach Area 31 27 Cape Liptrap - Arch Rock/Morgan Beach Area to 32 28 - Waratah Bay to Port Welshpool 33 29 34 30 The Islands - Port Welshpool to Reeves Beach 35 31 Ninety Mile Beach - Reeves Beach to Lakes Entrance 36 32 The Inland Lakes - Lake Wellington to Lake King 37 33 Coastal Plains and Estuaries - Lake Tyers to Sydenham Inlet 38 34 Croajingolong - Sydenham Inlet to NSW Border 39

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711 . 4209 00104722 945 VIC:T Landscape setting types for the Victorian coast

Landscape Se tting Types Introduction to Landscape Se tting Types

The Landscape Setting Types for the Victorian Coast together Using the above criteria thirty four setting types have been with the Siting and Design Guidelines for Structures on the identified and defined (refer following map). These landscape Victorian Coast have been developed to assist the Victorian setting types are broad and provide a useful framework for Coastal Council, coastal managers, Local Government and classification purposes. The development of Coastal Action other stakeholders to implement the Victorian Coastal Strategy Plans will further delineate and refine characteristics of the by encouraging sympathetic coastal development and setting type at the site specific level . promoting excellence in coastal design. While the entirety of the coast is visually significant, there are The Landscape Setting Types for the Victorian Coast aim to some areas that are particularly unique, such as Port Ph il lip provide a better understanding of the landscape character of Heads, Twelve Apostles at Port Campbell, Lakes, the coast by identifying significant features and characteristics the three Capes at Portland, the Great Ocean Road and the of various sections of the coast. The identified landscape wilderness coast near Mallacoota Inlet to mention a few. character should be considered and respected in the These areas are particularly vulnerable to change in which development of proposals for structures at specific locations in values could suffer if subjected to intensive or inappropriate order to achieve an integrated development which is development. sympathetic to the surrounding landscape.

The identification of Landscape Setting Types was based on site investigations, aerial inspection of the entire coastline, analysis of a large range of maps, aerial photographs and reports.

The following criteria have been used to determine these zones:

• The importance of the landscape as viewed from a number of points. AeriJI inspection of the entire Victori an coastline confirmed the complexity of coastal viewshed, as did visual analysis from the water and the hinterland (for example, views from points inland on the Bellarine Peninsula towards the Heads and Bay clearly show that these inland areas are a part of the coastal landscape).

• The nature and extent of the natural systems (landforms/geomorphology/land cover).

• The nature and extent of the cultural systems (settlements/structures).

• Exposure of landscape to winds/seas; that is the stability or energy level of the landscape.

• Capacity of the landscape to absorb change without creating visual impacts from prominent view points.

• Cultural influences and impacts (for example, urban development, heritage - both Aboriginal and European and land use).

• Landscape character - including climatic, experiential, visual and spiritual aspects of the coastal environment.

Land scape Setting Types 3 ------

~ Nelson Lower Coastal Plain

N The Three Capes

w Portland Lower Coastal Plain

Lady Julia Percy Island •

.i:. Tower Hill Tower Hill

Curdies Inlet

,-+ ::::r vi Coastal Cliffs and Twelve Apostles ct> < Princetown Gellibrand River (") en Moonlight Head ,-+ 0 and Inlet ...., .....i Cape Otway ( QJ ::J oo Great Ocean Road/Cape Panon •)> "'Cl n Q_ 0 0 QJ 00 OJ Vl '< ,-+ •r g Cl :l "' "'0 :l lO \.0 Lower Coastal Plains with Features • Geelong ~

Rural Flat and Undulating with Features 0 The Heads Rural Flatlands with Features w \.0 Back Beach Urban I Semi Urban Flatlands 00 Melbourne ~ N Cape Schanck 0 ~ · Urban/Suburban Flatlands and Low Cliffs ~ N Western Port Heads Urban and Suburban Flatlands ~

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Vl Nelson Lower Coastal Plain - Nelson to Bridgewater Lakes

Description

The main characteristics of this setting type are the large mobile sand dunes with high energy waves and winds continually shaping this fragile landscape. The area also contains brackish wetlands and low cliffs and stretches from Nelson Inlet along Discovery Bay to Cape Bridgewater.

The land beyond the coastal foredune or cliff consists of coastal grasses, sedges and some pasture. In the hinterland beyond the coastal zone are extensive plantings of pines which can be viewed in places from the Great South West Walk.

The is a special and largely hidden landscape with dramatic limestone cliffs, blue waters and the historic township of Nelson.

Special Considerations

• The wild coast character is strong and thus should be protected and uninterrupted.

• Pine planting is visual ly alien to the coastal character and should be excluded from the coastal viewshed . Land Characteristics • Some development well set back in " visual shadows" (beyond the coast) could occur without detriment.

• Fragile dunes/cliffs require protection.

• This area is of high landscape significance and requires appropriate planning controls to protect its specia l landscape characteristics.

6 Landsca pe Setting Types The Three capes - Bridgewater La kes to Portland

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This dramatic far western area is characterised by high cliffs (higher thJn 18 metres) Jnd wild seJs . It is J zone of hJrd rock cliffs and rock platforms. The smeltering works intrude into the landscape close to Portland. It is, in the large part, a dramatic environment where industrial, wild coastal and more urban landscapes collide in an exciting way, with unstable semi­ Vf'(Jf'tiltf'rl rl1 Jnf'<; on thf' WP<;t rtnrl <;trthlf' Vf'Qf'tiltf'rl rl1 mP<; on the eastern side. The eastern section of the setting type is visually dominated by the aluminium smelter plant west of Portland. Deep, leached >andy mil> give rise to the low ~l111 1 yyl.Jd1i<. wuuuldllt.b dl/U l1edlli1dl l U~ . Tl1e died LU/lldlll> minimal settlement and is highlighted by the Cape Nelson lighthouse.

This area is highly visible from a number of critical view points including the lighthouse. Point Danger, and Bridgewater Bay Beach area. The Great South West Walk passes through this area and offers unsurpassed views of the Southern Ocean and surrounding landscape.

The area is of outstanding scenic quality and requires special Land Characteristics landscape protection.

Special Considerations

• Cliff face landscapes are particularly sensitive to development.

• Extractive industry is visually unattractive in its present form west of Portland, although remediation is possible.

• Aboriginal middens need to be respected.

• Holiday development is encroaching on the Bridgewater Bay area and requires landscape overlay controls to protect this significant scenic area .

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La ndscape Setting Types 7 Portland Lower Coastal Pla in - Portland to Port Fairy

Description

This is primarily a lower coastal plain (stable and well vegetated in the west and less so in the east) with a series of rivers at the back of dunes creating brackish and fresh water wetlands. Linear residential development associated with the more established towns (Portland and Port Fairy) has impacted on the quality of the coastal landscape. Major landscape features include Lady Julia Percy Island, the lighthouse and historic port at Port Fairy and the impact of the rock wall at Dutton Way.

Major viewing points include Portland Harbour, the seal colony at Lady Julia Percy Island, Port Fairy/Cape Reamur/ coastal areas, car parks, as well as / viewing of Lady Julia Percy Island. Lady Julia Percy Island and associated mainland is of particular Aboriginal cultural and heritage significance.

Note: Shoreline in stability east of Portland.

Special Considerations

• Remove or avoid development on the coastline edge - this is best set back from the frontal dune/coastline. Land Characteristics

• Need to particularly concentrate development within established areas or w here this is not possible, set new subdivision/development back from the coastline.

• Basalt is traditionally and currently used as a building stone 0ENTLE. 11..CPES I W£TlN«) LOW ESCARPlllENT I Fl.Al'" in this area - this should be encouraged in contemporary ·----~-;;;..a:;;;;~;;;...... iilli~ · :~· ·· ----,,.,l__ ,.;::::,;;;;;;; -::::::· :.,___;;;;:.~::. development.

• Avoid any development of t he primary dune.

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8 Landscape Setting Types Tower Hill - Port Fa iry to Wa rrnamboo!

L>escript1on

This is a complex setting type strongly determined by newer basalts with rock platforms, dunes and interdunal marshes at the r:oast edge r:iraciing into rich open volcanic grazing lands. These are reminiscent of Ireland and were originally settled by Irish immigrants, mid last century. Indeed place names such as Killarney and Little Belfast underpin this linkage and heritage in a landscape of distinctive hedgerows and small cultivated paddocks.

The Western District Volcanic Plains is the largest landform of the reqion . This vo lcanic area is one of the larqest and youngest in the world. The volcanic plains are characterised by extinct volcanoes such as Tower Hill, a spectacular example of scoria cones within a large lake filled maar crater. However, apart from the series of volcanoes, the area is relatively flat with frw trrr' h11t 'nmr rrmn;mt n.1tiv0 r:ir.1,,l.1nrl' Thr 'rttin

Special Considerations

• Encou rage rura l development that is more closely settled, avoid scattering development throughout the landscape. ~ ._...... WITll HWGEllCIOfw • Respect the cu ltural character of this strong and unique land pattern; hedgerows, small cultivated pa ddocks interspersed ~~- ~--==--~:§?s~~l"INfT*O~-...... ""E;~~ -;....., with 19th century hamlets.

• The Port Fairy dune system is an important and va luable coasta l lan dscape feature that should be protected.

Landscape Setting Types 9 Coastal Cliffs and Twelve Apostles - Wa rrnambool to Princetown

Description

This unit is characterised by scenically stunning limestone cliffs and incised valleys in various places (eg . Port Campbell) with limited lowlands (eg . Curdies Inlet). The coast here, characterised by remnant limestone columns, stacks and towering cliffs, is amongst the most spectacular in the world. Low coastal vegetation provides little shelter to structures or even to visiting motor vehicles, which consequently results in high visual sensitivity. The viewshed for this setting type is particularly sensitive.

This area is actively eroding and in 1990 a large section of limestone rock collapsed from London Bridge within Port Campbell National Park. The fragility of this section of the coast is an important consideration in siting and managing tourist activity.

Warrnambool is noteworthy for its harbour, river and historic boat sheds, whale viewing areas and the Mahogany Ship. The area is seen from a number of critical view points including Childers Cove, Curdies Inlet, Port Campbell, Warrnambool Breakwater, Loch Ard Gorge and the Twelve Apostles. The area Land Characteristics is also becoming popular for scenic flights.

Special Considerations

• Avoid any development at the cliff edge. LOWCCMTAI.VEGETA110fl lCUl'FS r._.,._ STACICI • Respond to the gradation in height from west to east

. . - IEl\Clt • Urban consolidation should be encouraged in Warrnambool, - / SEA particularly at where the encroachment of , urban development is becoming obvious. - • m • At Warrnambool there are opportunities for major redevelopment of foreshore areas focussing on whale viewing .

• This area is of outstanding scenic quality and requires special landscape protection to ensure development does not impact on landscape values.

1O Land scape Setting Types Moonlight Head - Princetown to Glenaire

Description

I his area is characterised by some of the highest coastal cliffs in and general visual character of ocean oriented wilderness. These contrast with the Twelve Apostles in that they are higher. of non marin e sediments and supporting visuolly obsorptive medium scrub ond woodlond ot their peoks . There are some dunes, in particular near Princetown, where there is little development w ith only the occasional dwelling and access track. The cl iffs that abut the Southern Ocean in this area attain a height in excess of 100 metres and the soft limestone is continuously being eroded by the ocean and strong southerly w inds . The cliffs at the Gable, near Moonli ght Head are approxi mately 123 metres above sea level, possibly the highest sea cliffs in Australia.

Critical viewing points are mainly along roads, car parks and beaches.

Special Considerations Land Characteristics • This area has considerable potential for maritime conservation and interpretation . To maintain and accentuate these characteristics there should be minimal disruption in the visually exposed cliff edge areas . The hinterland ridgeline is a major determinant to this wilderness area; landwards of it there is clearly development potential.

• This area is of outstanding scenic quality and requires special landscape protection to ensure development does not impact on landscape values .

La ndscape Setting Types 11 Cape Otway - Glenaire to Elliott River

Description

This setting type is characterised by sedimentary hi ll s descending to the ocean often as cliffs and interspersed by beaches and small inlets, such as those at t he Aire and Parker Rivers. As a conseq uence the setting type is complex w ith a number of sub setting types, including the Aire Valley and the high dune-capped coast above Station Beach surrounding the Cape Otway light station .

Green pasture, towering temperate rainforest, farm buildings and occasiona l holiday shacks and tracks ma rk an otherwise natural character, with the light station symboli sing a strong ma ritime heritage with coasta l wreckage, relics, graveyards frequently encountered . The cliff has a mainly forested vegetation cover and a " wild" character, especially along the shoreline proper.

Critical view points, apart from Great Ocean Road, include Horden Va le Road, Cape Otway, Blanket Bay and .

Special Considerations

• This area is of outstanding scenic quality and requires specia l Land Characteristics landscape protection to ensure development does not impact on landscape values.

• To avoid destruction of these values any development should be limited and contained in hinterland valleys such as the Aire River.

12 Land scape Setting Types Great Ocean Road/Cape Patton - Elliott River to Anglesea

Description

Thi~ ~Pttino tyrp i~ rhrirrirtPri~Prl hy rPVPOPtritPrl c;PrlimPnt;iry hills descending to the ocean as cliffs and interspersed by hearhes and small inlets. This is Great Ocean Road territory - one of the most dramatic ocean drives in the world and also a fucu ~ fur liuliudy 1e~u1l Lleveluµ11 1e11L.

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This area contains the resort towns of , Lorne and Anglesea . The foreshore areas associated with these nodes offer oppmt1mity for improvPci rPcrPational opportunities. A Land Characteristics major threat to the integrity of this highly significant landscape is the continual encroachment of unsympathetic strip development spreading out from existing coastal settlements. The character of townships should be protected from unsympathetic development.

Critical view points include Marengo, Apollo Bay, Skenes - - Creek, Cape Patton, Kennett River, , Cathedral Rocks, - Lorne, Cinema Point, Eastern View and Aireys Inlet to Po int Roadnight.

Special Considerations

• It is desirable to enhance this coastal landscape. It is important to address problems of linear development and inappropriate development, some of which can be seen within the coastal townships.

• Concentrate any development at existing nodes.

• Appropriate planning controls are required to protect this significant landscape asset.

Landscape Setting Types 13 Lower Coastal Plains with Features -Anglesea to the Heads

Description

Thi s setting type is characterised by lower coastal cliffs and dunes interspersed with inlets and limestone bluffs culminating in the Heads at Port Phillip Ba y. Vegetation is low (shrubs and grasses) at the interface w ith the ocean , grading to taller trees inland. and the are inland extensions of the coastline experience with high conservation values and flat open landscape with low visual absorption. Urban development at Torquay, Ocean Grove and Barwon Heads is tending to spread and is compromising the coa stal quality. Major threats are linear residential and holiday home developments. The Barwon Heads Pier and surrounds offer considerable opportunity for a cafe/kiosk development.

Thi s area is seen from all coa stal car parks and surf beaches, Thirteenth Beach Coastal Road , the Esplanade at Torquay and Barwon Heads.

Major landmarks include the limestone bluff at Barwon Heads and the restaurant at the Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club.

Special Considerations Land Characteristics • Relationsh ip of this setting type to the Heads is critical in that Point Lonsdale and Queenscliff form the western and northern edges to the Heads marine environment.

• Forward planning is required to ensure that future development does not adversely affect coastal values.

• Access to beaches needs controlling .

• Revegetation on dunes is critica l to maintain stability.

14 Landscape Setting Types The Heads - Point Nepean, Point Lonsdale and Queenscliff

Description

Th is settinq type is characterised by li mestone cl iffs and dunes. Vegetation is low in exposed area s which contrusts the tull exotic plantings at Queenscl iff. Port Phillip Heads forms the gatew ay to Port Phillir Rriy.

Point Nepean and Point Lon sdale comprise the portals of that gateway and Queenscliff is the early focus as one proceeds through the Heads. Thi s landscape is dominated by the energy of the ocean swells and currents; indeed, this awe-inspiring body of water has claimed numerous ships and many lives . The low limestone/sandy points at Point Lonsdale and Point Nepean frame the power of the "Rip " at Port Phillip Heads. These values need to be protected and enhanced .

Major landmarks in this area include the lighthouses at Point Lonsdale and Queenscliff; distinctive heritage character of Queenscliff created by the buildings as a complex of structures and exotic vegetation. Other landmarks include the harbour and Ferry terminal facilities and fortifications.

Major view points are car parks, piers, beaches, coastal towns Land Characteristics such as Point Lonsdale and Queenscl iff, and Point Nepean . Th is area is seen extensive ly from the water and air, including ferries , private boats, international liners and scen ic joy flights.

Special Considerations • Any change proposed for this area needs to acknowledge • the special heritage and natural landscape setting type character described and the dramatic constant variation due to shipping activity. Extreme care needs to be taken to protect the quality of the setting type, otherwise " .. . it could be loved to death ".

• Development needs to be kept low to reduce visual impact.

• Navigation, defence and Aboriginal heritage needs to be respected .

• The complex coastal processes need to be studied carefully before undertaking the development of any marine structures.

• This area is of outstanding scenic quality and requires appropriate planning controls to protect this significant landscape asset.

Landsca pe Setting Types 15 Rural Flat and Undulating with Features - swan Bay to Geelong

Description

Cliffs vary from high to low beyond which the land is flat and undulating with pasture and small to medium sized coastal towns. (eg. Clifton Springs, St. Leonards and Portarlington). The coastal cliffs, near Clifton Springs, are most unstable and slumping is apparent throughout the setting type.

Swan Bay and the surrounding Bellarine Hills form a major feature in this area . Swan Bay catchment is currently being planned in an integrated way to protect the environmental features/qualities of Swan Bay.

The area can be seen from the piers and beaches and by boat.

Special Considerations

• This setting type is facing enormous development pressure resulting from the spread of the city of Geelong . As a consequence, the towns are increasingly growing into dormitory suburbs.

• The siting of development near cliffs needs to be avoided, given their unstable nature. Development should be Land Characteristics concentrated to negate visual clutter across the landscape.

16 Landscape Setting Types Geelong - Point Henry to Limeburners Bay

Description

This setting type is characterised b y the contrast ing flat landscapes of the salt w orks, the industrial structures ot Po int Henry and the Geelong port area and city skyline.

The setting type covers Geelong City, Eastern Beach , Geelong North (highly industrialised), and Rippleside. Cultural influences are most s1gn1f1cant where the construction of a multitude of structures has resulted in changes such as the extensive remov;:il of n;:itur;:il veget;:ition, predomin;:intly modified drainage patterns and major modifications to sediment movement through sea walls and groynes.

Major focal points are the city and harbr:iur ThP rill 1mini11m s1·1·1elter at Point He1-11v creates a visual impact but mixes with the built form of the city ;:ind other port rel;:ited ~tructure~ to create an exciting landscape with dominant views to the harbour. Industrial development in North Geelong and Corio has had a significant impact on the landscape.

Major viewing points are from Limeburners Point at Eastern Park, the city and harbourside areas. Land Characteristics Special Considerations

• Developments should relate to the scale and character of existing structures, this will be heavily influenced by the large number of structures located in the hinterland.

• Establish visual harmony with existing structures in those

locations where historic buildings exist. ooiao 1AY

• In some areas appropriate landscape treatments are also necessary to reinforce historical themes.

• Revegetation is required for erosion control in some areas.

Landscape Setting Types 17 Rural Flatlands with Features - Limeburners Bay to Williamstown

Description

This area has an open wind swept character with windbreak plantations and isolated residential communities. There are occasional incised rivers such as Little River, and Skeleton Creek, as well as dramatic industrial plants, particularly the oil refineries in Norlane and Altona. The setting type is generally flat and visually very open; development of any sort, therefore, stands out.

The setting type also includes salt works and major wetlands at the Werribee Sewerage Treatment Works. The structures at the Avalon Air Base provide a contrast to the flat fields.

Flinders Peak at the You Yangs provides a major landmark in the area .

Critical view points are from the You Yangs, Werribee River, Point Cook Metropolitan Park, the Esplanade and the pier at Altona.

Special Considerations

• As this is a highly exposed flat landscape with low visual Land Characteristics absorption it is critical to contain development and minimise development near the waters edge.

• The highly vulnerable and globally acknowledged habitat areas require protection. FLAT LAHOSCAP£ 1 • A range of hinterland areas (currently visually exposed) could be developed with appropriate landscape protection and enhancement.

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18 Landscape Setting Types Melbourne - Williamstown to Elwood

Description

The main characteristics of this setting type include the City skyline, Williamstown and St. Kilda . Cultural influences are

II IU>l :,iy11i riLdl 1l wl 1e1 e LI 1e LUll>ll uLliu1 I of a ff1ultitude of structures has resulted in changes such as the extensive removal of natural vegetation, predominantly modified rlr;iini'lQP rrittPrn<; rinrl m;ijnr mnrlifir;itinn<; tn <;PriimPnt movement through sea walls and groynes.

fhe major view points are: Point Gellibrand, f\Jelson Place, Sdt-nco:-wo1·b. thr- ';trn1·1d, W11tg11tr nrirlgr, l"rinrr.~ and Stution PiPr <; RPnrnn<;fiPlrl PnrnrlP. lJflflPr f<;fllnnilrlP.. Point Ormond. uedd1e~. 1e ~ Ldu1d11L> d11J Ldre>, 111d1i11d> d11J l.Judl l1d1uuui-s Lo mention just a few.

I he beaches are typically dominated by seawalls and groynes with !;Orne dune veqetJtion Jnd exten~ive ~ treetscipe pl.

Special Considerations

• Developments should relate to the scale and character of Land Characteristics existing structures. This will be heavily influenced by the large number of structures located in the hinterland.

• Urban design planning controls that address height, visual integration, design outcomes etc should be established for this precinct.

• Establish visual harmony with existing structures in those locations where historic buildings exist.

• In some areas extensive landscaping is also necessary to reinforce historical themes.

• The value of habitat conservation/reconstruction, ecotourism and natural area interpretation should be recogn ised and enhanced where appropriate.

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La ndscape Setting Types 19 Urban/Suburban Flatlands and Low Cliffs - Elwood to M en tone

Description

This area features low dunes to medium sized cliffs and a modified landscape, with remnant coastal vegetation including stands of Banksia integrifolia, Tea Trees and Allocasuarina. Beach Road viewing, from Brighton to Mentone is critical to the appreciation of the setting type. The viewing experience can be enhanced by improved planting patterns to create a sequence of interesting views. Whereas on one side of the road is ordered post war development, the other side mainly comprises scattered development with views to the coast, opening and closing continuously as a function of the location of coastal vegetation.

With the exception of Brighton, residential development is generally below the tree line and doesn 't dominate the coastal landscape. This is changing, however, as existing low scale homes give way to taller modern apartments and villas.

Major focal points are Green Point, the harbours at Brighton and Sandringham and the high cliffs at Black Rock, Red Bluff and . Other viewpoints include views to Arthurs Seat and the CBD from Beach Road, promenades, paths, piers Land Characteristics and car parks. This area is also seen extensively from the bay and beaches .

Special Considerations

• Vegetation and landform means development can be absorbed beyond the coast proper and sometimes within the coastal environs.

• As development and access pressure is likely to continue to grow, protection of these environs is critical.

• Detailed viewshed studies are needed to ensure critical views to Arthurs Seat and the City are maintained and not blocked out by building and planting.

20 Landscape Setting Types Urban and Suburban Flatlands - Mentone to Frankston

uescription A large part ot this area teatures low dunes, with extensive development occurring between the Nepean Highway and waters edge. There is on ly limited direct coastal exposure and views are at locations such as , Mentone and Seaford. Within the lrank:;ton and Seaford area, e:

Major focal point; in thi:; area include the s~'.yline of the and the high cliffs at Olivers Hill. Major viewing points include the piers, car parks and Nepean Highway at Olivers Hill, with views of Melbourne CBD and the You Yangs. Thi:; ;:irc;:i i:; ;:il:;o cxtcn:;ivc:ly :;c:c:n from the B;:iy ;:ind bc;:ichc::;.

Special Considerations

• Avoid overshadowing of the beach with structures.

• For car parks which visua lly dominate the beach, undertake Land Characteristics landscape treatments or remove the car parks.

• A beach walk and more visual and physical access to the beach is appropriate.

• The creation of a better visual connection between Nepean BEACH I CAftPAftK DEVELOPMENT I NEPEAN HKiHWAY Highway and Port Phillip is required. BAY i D?io l

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Landscape Setting Types 21 Suburban Bushland Escarpment - Frankston to Safety Beach

Description

This setting type is characterised by well vegetated cliffs with a variety of viewing experiences from land and water. The landscape is made up of heavily vegetated areas, with the concentration of residential development on the escarpment; there is a dense vegetation buffer at the waters edge. Highly erodable and unstable cliffs, subject to slumps, occur in some areas at Mount Eliza.

Major viewing points are from car parks, promenades, the pier at Mornington and occasional views from the Esplanade at Mount Martha. Major focal points in this area include the Mornington Harbour, Schnapper Point, formal gardens at Mornington Park and the hills of Mount Martha.

Special Considerations

• Development tends to be visually exposed due to slope and elevation; road access is also limited.

• This area is of important scenic quality and requires specia l landscape protection. Land Characteristics • Development should be well set back from cliff edge or located at the cliff base, to reduce visual impacts.

• There is a need for appropriate planninq controls to protect the landscape values of this area.

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22 Land scape Setting Types Urban/Semi Urban Flatlands - Sa fe ty Beach to Portsea

Description

Mainly low beach grading to low to medium coastal cliffs at Point Nepean. Between Safety Beach and Sorrento there is frequent visual access to the Bay, only limited by some structures and some dense coastal plantings (Tea Tree, Banksia etc). West of Sorrento, private residential land between the Main Road and the Bay restrict Bay views with the exceptions of the Portsea, Sorrento, Rye , Rosebud and Dromana Pier areas. Hinterland development, due in part to the terrain and vegetation, has limited visual impact on the coast. Some of this coast is overdeveloped, with hiqh impact visually intrusive car parks and the well known caravan park areas at Rosebud . This landscape presents an opportunity for revitalisation.

Spcci;:il Con5idcr;:ition5

• Nepean Highway and adjoining townships need to express a grPiltPr rnil~till rhilrilrtPr

• From the Melbourne side of this setting type, enhance the progression experience to the natural headland at Point Nepean and the Rip . Land Characteristics • Careful siting and design of structures that influence coastal processes is necessary as the coastline is prone to erosion and sed iment movements.

• This area has high scenic quality and requires appropriate planning controls to protect this sensitive landscape. ..y · ~

Landscape Setting Types 23 Back Beach - Point Nepean to Cape Schanck

Description

This setting type is of high landscape significance and is characterised by rocky headlands at Point Nepean moving through low cliffs and extensive dynamic dunes and reaching the high volcanic headlands at Cape Schanck . The setting features mainly Tea Tree and Melaleuca vegetation, with scattered residential development. Beyond Rye is open pasture with some golfing facilities . Despite residential development between Portsea and Rye, this coastline has a "wild" feel to it and a telling maritime history of high danger, shipwrecks and numerous fatalities.

Major focal points include Point Nepean and Cape Schanck with it's lighthouse. This area is extensively seen from popular surf beaches, Po int Nepean and various coastal car parks.

Special Considerations

• Highly vulnerable to wind erosion, requires careful path layout and weed control.

• Impact of car parks on the coastal landscape is severe in places (eg . Gunnamatta). Land Characteristics

• Encroachment of buildings on dune systems threaten dune stability/dune vistas.

• This area is of outstanding scenic qua lity and requires appropriate planning controls to prated the sensitive landscape and to ensure development does not impad on $ landscape va lues. :

24 Land scape Setting Types Cape Schanck - Cape Schanck to Flinders

Description

This setting type is of high landscape significance and is characterised by high cliffs with rocky platforms and mainly extensive natural coastal vegetation. The setting type extends from the east of the ~ack ~each setting to Just east of Hinders township. There is some pressure for residential and recreational uses (eg. golf). Some capacity for development in this landscape within vegetated and other visually protected areas exists.

A major focal point for this area is the Cape Schanck lighthouse. The area is also highly visible from the Frankston/Flinders Road .

• Where the landscape is cleared, extensive planting and grouping of development is needed to avoid visual clutter_

• This area is of outstanding scenic quality and requires special landscape protection to ensure development does not impact on landsca pe values. Land Characteristics

Landscape Setting Types 25 Western Port Heads - Flinders to Ph illip Island

Description

This area is of high landscape significance and is characterised by West Head at Flinders and the Nobbies/ of Phillip Island framing Western Port's main gateway.

In contrast to Port Phillip Heads, this area is a more subdued stretch of water with Mornington Peninsula lining one side and the spectacular landforms of the Nobbies and Phillip Island on the other.

Major view points are from Mornington Peninsula and Phillip Island and from extensive boating activity between. The Heads viewshed includes the Main Ridge (Mornington Peninsula), Western Po rt lowlands and the western edge of Phillip Island.

Special Considerations

• This area is of outstanding scenic quality and requires appropriate planning controls to protect this sensitive landscape.

Land Characteristics --

26 La ndscape Setting Types Lower Cliffs - Flinders to Stony Point

Description

This setting type is characterised by low to medium coastal cliffs descending to either a mangrove coastal edge or salt marsh at Stony Point. From Flinders to Somers partly vegetated volcanic cliffs are interspersed with exotic plantings (e.g. Pinus radiata at Shoreham), low beaches and streams. East of Somers, this condition gives w ay to a descending sandy sp it culminating at Stony Point. This element supports one of the State's most outstanding stands of Banksia integrifolia.

Major focal points include the rising land to Red Hill westwards and the linear planting of Pines or Cypress in the hinterland. MilJOf viPwina rnints inrl11rlP thP riPr ilt FlinrlPr\ hPilrhP5 rinrl water areas .

Special Considerations

• <;tmna sense of landform needs to be protected given considerable development pressure and the ability of the coastal hinterland to support development.

• Development should be contained within exi sting urban areas to protect this valuable and mainly natural coastline. Land Characteristics

Landscape Setting Types 27 Western Port Lowlands - Stony Point to San Remo

Descri ption

This area is characterised by an open lower coastal plain w ith intertidal mud flats at the edge, salt marshes and mangroves from Sandy Point north to and east to Stockyard Point, after which sand beaches occur interspersed with mud flats southwards including Grantville to Corinell a and San Remo. Occasional rock platforms and mangroves occur at Corinella and the mouth, with a mixture of pasture, scattered woodland and residential uses beyond, although grazing occurs over much of the hinterland.

The north west area from Hastings to Tooradin is of high visual significance, because of the natural coastal vegetation, including mangroves, and its importance for wildlife conservation.

Prominent landscape features in the area include the port of Hastings with it's tank farms, and adjacent marina development at Hastings.

Special Considerations

• Avoid removal of fringing vegetation, especially on the Land Characteristics eastern side which is particularly vulnerable to erosion .

• As many parts of the setting type are flat and wide open, development may adversely alter the existing cha racter.

• Any further industrial development should be set back from the shoreline. MY • Appropriate planning controls are required to protect the scenic integrity of this area .

28 Land scape Setting Types Western Port Islands - Phillip/Churchill/French Islands

Dc5cription

By definition, these islands are visually exposed to views from the sea and will need careful site planning if major change is contemplated. Phillip Island, on the ocean side, is characterised by a flat cliff landscape, of basalt geology and is sensitive to development. In contrast, is a sedimentary island that has a gentle rolling landscape and a low and largely vegetated coastline. Phillip Island has low vegetation level on the ocean side with lower, exposed sandy cliffs and beaches on the Western Port side whereas French Island generally has extensive vegetation cover. is a small knoll, with a mixture of indigenous/exotic vegetation .

Phillip Island's southern coast from Newhaven to the Nobbies is JttrJct1ve. Jlthough ~ubiect to the 1mpJct ot hol1dJy hou~e development taking advantage of the island 's visual setting, proximity to the metropolitJn JrCJ, ocmn bmche~ Jnd cliff~.

Features such as the San Remo Bridge and the associated fishing ports of San Remo and Newhaven contrast strongly with the stunning pink granite headland of Cape Woolamai . Mention should be made of the historic significance of the Land Characteristics entry to Western Port at the eastern end, as well as the busier and more exposed western entry between the Nobbies and Fl inders.

Other major viewing points include swimming beaches, car parks, piers at San Remo, Newhaven and Cowes, the Penguin Parade and the Nobbies. The southern side of Phillip Island is of high visua l significance and needs overlay landscape controls to ensure protection of the scenic landscape.

Special Considerations

• The island character should be reinforced by containing development to existing settlements and holding new works back from the waters edge.

• Appropriate planning controls are required to ensure that the landscape values of the area are protected.

• Consideration shou ld be given to revegetation of areas that have been cleared over the course of the islands' history.

Landscape Setting Types 29 Anderson Peninsula - San Remo to Kilcunda

Description

Th is area is characterised by an elevated open pasture landscape of sedimentary geology that descends to Bass Stra it with high cliffs at the Anderson Peninsula . The setting type extends to Kilcunda and , although it is visually exposed from Western Port, and adjoining land areas, it contains areas obscured from view where development could be considered . Apart from limited residential area s, most adjacent uses are rural in nature.

Crit ical view points are gained from Kilcunda, along the Bass Hig hway and from headlands and beaches throughout the setting type.

Special Considerations

• In addition to exposed and sensi tive area s the setting type has potential to visually absorb development in valleys not directly exposed to the ocean .

• Thi s area is of outstanding scenic quality and requires appropriate planning controls to protect this significant landscape. Land Characteristics

30 Landscape Setting Types Cape Paterson - Kilcunda to Arch Rock/Morgan Beach Area

Description

Th is setting type consists of mainly medium to high cliff landscape interspersed with ponds and inlets including the Tarwin lowlands. Where not under pasture or residential use, this setting type features extensive native vegetation . There is considerable pressure for residential development and yet it is a landscape that can accommodate such uses in more suitable places and still maintain its intrinsic visual character ;it rirrrnrrj;itp rlrirP<;

Critical view points include the cliffs in the vicinity of Cape l\itcr:;on/Ci:iglc:> ~Jc:;t und from cur purk:> und roud:> thut occur throughout the setting type.

Special Considerations

• Beyond the sensitive coastal edge, there are a range of opportunities for development. This is a setting type that faces considerable threat from development in the narrow coasta I area.

• This area is of high scenic quality and requires appropriate planning controls to protect this significant landscape. Land Characteristics

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Land scape Setting Types 31 Cape Liptrap -Arch Rock/Morgan Beach Area to Wa ratah Bay

Description

This table top sedimentary unit is a patch work of pasture and native bushland. The Cape Liptrap lighthouse provides the key focal point with scattered development generally tucked into the treed plateau top. The setting type falls dramatically to the sea with dense shrub cover. The cliff edge is particularly exposed and development should be held back from this location.

Spectacular views are gained from almost every position in the landscape setting type, particularly along coastal cliffs.

Special Considerations

• The cliff escarpment and ridgeline areas should not be developed. Inland from these locations there is considerable scope for clustering development.

• The setting type is of outstanding scenic quality with a number of heritage sites and requires appropriate planning controls to protect this significant landscape.

Land Characteristics

32 Landscape Setting Types Corner Inlet - Waratah Bay to Port Welshpool

Description

This land forms the gateway to Wilsons Promontory and is generally flat in nature with an estuarine system featuring mangroves and intertidal sand and mud flats . At key locations, historic and picturesque settlements, such as Port Franklin and Port Welshpool, occur. Given the flat topography, future development will need careful siting to avoid visua l intrusion into this tranquil setting .

The low coastal plain of the Corner Inlet setting type provides a critical horizontal foundation to the abutting ascending landforms of Wilsons Promontory. Wilsons Promontory viewed as it mainly is from the Fish Creek/Foster area appears all the more dramatic, given the flat and watery nature of Corner Inlet in the foreground.

Special Considerations

• The historic township of Port Welshpool should be respected with any future subdivisions or building forms.

• This area is of outstanding scenic quality and requires Land Characteristics appropriate planning controls to ensure development does not impact on landscape values.

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Infrastructure Library

Landscape Setting Types 33 WiI sons Promontory

Description

A coastal landscape recognised internationally, " The Prom " provides a dramatic statement as it dips sharply into Bass Strait. Its bold granite form creates a series of headlands, hidden valleys and sweeping white beaches. The setting type is extensively vegetated . Development is contained to a few settlements, a fact which helps reinforce the wilderness quality of this place.

The lighthouse forms a major focal point in the rugged landscape and is of historic significance. Many argue that Wilsons Promontory is 's most visually exciting coastal landscape and that these values need to be protected at all costs.

Special Considerations

• The majority of the setting type consists of Wilsons Promontory National Park and any development in the area must respond to and be sympathetic to the outstanding environmental and scenic values of the area .

• The opportunity exists from the visual perspective to locate Land Characteristics contained development into the hidden va lley areas, although this may well be rejected by reference to other values . Elsewhere the landscape is so dramatic that any form of development should be avoided, as it will spoil the wilderness quality.

• Areas adjacent to "The Prom" also require special landscape protection and appropriate planning controls to ensure development does not impact on landscape values.

34 Landscape Setting Types The Islands - Port Welshpool to Reeves Beach

Descripliun

Running from Port Welshpool to Reeves Beach, this landscape setting type has many low and sandy scrub islands 1n an extensive estuarine system . The setting type is very flat and redlu1e~ l11e l1i~Lu1iL luw11 ur Pu1L All.Jell. Tlii~ i~ Ulle ur Liie rew setting types comprising mostly water and it manifests a lakeland quality similar in character to the .

The character of this area is important from both the natural and cultural stand point.

Special Considerations

.. Tl11t l1i~l1_11i•. luw11~l1iµ ur Pu1L .1\ll.Je1l ~lluultJ l.Je IL'~µL'llL'U w ith any future subd1v1s1ons or bu1ld1ng torms.

• This ureu is of outstanding scf'nic ci1 rirP~ appropriate planning controls to protect the sensitive landscape.

Land Characteristics

Landscape Setting Types 35 90 Mile Beach - Reeves Beach to Lakes Entrance

Descri ption

The overwhelming character of this setting type is formed by the frontal dune and the extensive continuous beach which stretches from Reeves Beach to Lakes Entrance. The setting type comprises a frontal dune generally vegetated with scrubby plants such as Leptospermum sp ., Acacia sp. and associated sand/salt tolerant plants. The dunes are most susceptible to wind erosion and " blow outs" occur where vegetation is removed . This high energy setting type does not lend itself to development or uncontrolled use. Special management and use practices are necessary to avoid adverse impacts as a con sequence of change.

The setting type is generally flat with low visual horizons vulnerable to development. The impacts of taller buildings on the inside dune at Loch Sport, for example, devalue the quality of this otherwise tranquil natural landscape.

The " entrance view" as one approaches Lakes Entrance is a signature vista, memorable to any visitor and should not be compromised by development or poorly considered landscape treatments. Land Characteristics

Special Considerations

• All development shou ld be kept out of the direct path of the wind and special controls on use in the setting type are essential to avoid erosion problems.

• Clearing of vegetation should be restricted or avoided . -----...---.-. · 1111)Kl*tilf'Rlil-~....- .....,.._-=--.. ;;;;;;;;;;:::::==-

• Access to the beach should be controlled.

• Building height needs to be careful ly managed due to t he nature of this low and horizontal landscape.

36 Landscape Setting Types The Inland Lakes - Lake Wellington t o Lake King

Description

This setting type interacts very strongly with the Ninety Mile Beach setting type. The geology consists mainly of marine and alluvium ::.eui111e11L::. dllU deulid11 (wi11<.J i.Jluw11) ::.dr1<.J::..

1 his lakes system is a sand-barriered lagoon fed by the Mitchell, Macalister, Thomson, Avon, Nicholson, Latrobe and Tambo Rivers. The in land lakes are protected by the foredunes of the Ninety Mile Beach . Urban area s include Metung and Paynesville with Sale and Bairnsdale connected to the lakes system by the Latrobe and Mitchell Rivers respectively.

The lakes and dunes Jre very scen ic Jnd more extensive thJn dr1y u l1 1e1 i11ld11<.J ::.y::.Le111 i11 ViLlurid. rvldrry µdr l::. u f il dre vulnerable, such as the Boole Poole Peninsula where urban development poses difficulties for protection of its high landscape va lue. The lakes have abundant bird life and possess a ca lm and tranquil coastline in contrast to the high energy wind swept ocean beach adjoining its southern edge.

Generally, the setting type is well vegetated with a variety of native plants intermixed with pasture lands. Most development Land Characteristics tends to occur in the hinterland of rivers that feed the lakes or at key topographical features such as at Paynesville. The Gippsland Lakes is a unique landscape of considerable beauty which is best experienced not only from the major activity nodes, but from the water.

Special Considerations

• Maintain fringing vegetation around the lakes edge.

• Concentrate development within existing urban areas.

• Review height controls of structures, to ensure that higher structures occur only in established townships.

• Appropriate planning contro ls are necessary to direct development to suitable areas.

• Building heights need to be carefully managed in the Lakes viewshed .

• This area is of outstanding scenic quality and requires special landscape protection. !J!!!1

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La ndscape Setting Types 37 Coastal Plain and Estuaries - Lake Tyers to Sydenham Inlet

Description

Th is area consists of unstable dunes which interface with the ocean and create extensive brackish and fresh water swamps abutting coastal bluffs. These coastal bluffs are low to moderately high and are made up of marine and non-marine material . The swamps are fed by a series of rivers and inlets, including Lake Tyers and a series of creeks and rivers - the more prominent being the Snowy and Bemm Rivers . Isolated headlands of primarily igneous origin, such as Cape Conran and Pearl Point, create a strong visual contrast to the surrounding sedimentary and aeolian landscape.

Development is confined to a few strategic locations such as Marlo and if the natural character of the setting type is to be maintained, these should be used to accommodate growth.

Indigenous vegetation is extensive in this setting type and disturbance shou ld be minimised if future works are proposed.

Special Considerations

• Avoid any development that directly fronts the coast. Land Characteristics • This area is of outstanding scenic quality and requires special landscape protection to ensure development does not impact on landscape values .

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38 Land scape Setting Types Croajingolong - Sydenham Inlet to NSW Border

Description The extreme contrast of hard rock (primarily granite at Point Hicks and Ram Head), large mobile dune systems and dense coastal vegetation creates a coastline of marked wilderness character. Development is limited to lighthouses and inlet settlements such as Mallacoota. Vegetation is generally open woodland throughout the setting type with extensive heathland and some closPrl tPmpPriltP r;iinforPst in gullies.

This area is characterised by a windswept and wild character. Featu res include: , Mallacoota Inlet and Point Hicks. The landscape in this area comprises sandy beaches and dunes often backed by interdunal depressions and punctuated by rocky headlands. As well, a number of inlets occur through this area such as at Tamboon and Wingan Inlets. Whilst there are some settlements in this zone, it is largely an unspoilt wilderness coastline of considerable beauty.

Special Considerations

• Avoid any development on the coastal side of dunes and contain new works to inland inlets and rivers to ensure the Land Characteristics coastli ne reta ins its rugged non-developed wilderness character.

• This area is of outstanding sce nic quality and requires specia l landscape protection to ensure that development does not impact on landscape va lues.

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