For more information contact the Parks Information Centre on 13 1963, or visit www.parkweb.vic.gov.au Historic Park

Management Plan September 2007 This Management Plan for Beechworth Historic Park is approved for implementation. Its purpose is to direct all aspects of management of the park until the plan is reviewed.

A Draft Management Plan for the park was published in June 2006. Twelve submissions were received. All submissions have been considered in preparing this approved Management Plan.

For further information on this plan, please contact:

Ranger in Charge Beechworth Historic Park PO Box 483 Beechworth VIC 3747 Phone: (03) 5720 8190

Copies This plan may be downloaded from the Parks Victoria website www.parkweb.vic.gov.au. Copies of the plan may be purchased for $8.80 including GST from:

Parks Victoria Office Latrobe University Campus Albert Road Beechworth VIC 3747 Phone: (03) 5720 8190

Parks Victoria Information Centre Level 10, 535 Bourke Street VIC 3000 Phone: 13 1963

BEECHWORTH HISTORIC PARK MANAGEMENT PLAN

September 2007 Published in September 2007 by Parks Victoria Level 10, 535 Bourke Street, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000

National Library of Cataloguing-in-Publication entry

Beechworth Historic Park management plan.

Bibliography. ISBN 9780731183746 (pbk.). 1. National parks and reserves - Victoria - Management. 2. Beechworth Historic Park (Vic.). I. Parks Victoria. II. Title.

333.783099455

Cover: Spring Creek Bridge, Gorge Scenic Drive (Photo: John McDonald)

Acknowledgements Acknowledgement of Country: In their rich culture, are intrinsically connected to the continent — including the area now known as Victoria. Parks Victoria recognises that the park is part of Country of the Traditional Owners. Parks Victoria is grateful to all those organisations and individuals who have contributed to this Management Plan. Special thanks go to the Chiltern–Mt Pilot National Park and Beechworth Historic Park Management Plan Advisory Group: Bob Bennett, Anthony Carey, Eileen Collins, Allan Friar, John Hawker, Michael Leahy, Jan Palmer, Susan Petzke, Christine Stewart, Rik Thwaites and Christine Watson.

Note: Technical terms used in this plan are explained in the Glossary at the end of the plan.

Disclaimers This plan is prepared without prejudice to any negotiated or litigated outcome of any native title determination applications covering land or waters within the plan’s area. It is acknowledged that any future outcomes of native title determination applications may necessitate amendment of this plan; and the implementation of this plan may require further notifications under the procedures in Division 3 of Part 2 of the Native Title Act 1993 (Cwlth). The plan is also prepared without prejudice to any future negotiated outcomes between the Government/s and Victorian Indigenous communities. It is acknowledged that such negotiated outcomes may necessitate amendment of this plan. Every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this plan is accurate. Parks Victoria does not guarantee that the publication is without flaw of any kind and therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or other consequence that may arise from you relying on any information in the publication.

Text printed on 100% recycled paper to help save our natural environment FOREWORD

Beechworth Historic Park is one of only four A wealth of recreational opportunities exists parks in Victoria reserved under the National for visitors, including bush walking, bike Parks Act 1975 (Vic.) with a principal focus on riding, picnicking, fishing and horse riding. the protection of cultural heritage values. The This plan details the values and attractions in park protects a range of historic mining sites Beechworth Historic Park and is a strategic and relics from the Beechworth gold rush of guide in the protection and management into the 1850s, including sluiced gullies, water the future. It was completed following careful races, diversions, tunnels, shafts, and consideration of the 12 submissions received occupation sites of miners within the park. from the public on the Draft Management Plan. Whilst the park is valued for its cultural I thank the members of the Chiltern–Mt Pilot features, it also protects substantial remnants National Park and Beechworth Historic Park of forests and woodlands, including nationally Management Plan Advisory Group for their threatened Box-Ironbark flora and fauna valuable contribution to the plan and also wish communities. The park contains Victoria’s to thank those individuals and organisations principal site for the endangered Yellow who made submissions, and encourage Hyacinth-orchid. everyone to continue to enjoy and appreciate the park and become involved in its management.

GAVIN JENNINGS MLC Minister for Environment and Climate Change

Beechworth Historic Park iii APPROVED MANAGEMENT PLAN

This Management Plan, prepared under The plan provides the basis for the future Section 18(2)(d) of the National Parks Act management of Beechworth Historic Park. It 1975 (Vic.), proposes the basis and directions was finalised following consideration of the 12 for the future management of Beechworth submissions received on the Draft Historic Park. Management Plan.

PETER HARRIS MARK STONE Secretary to the Chief Executive Department of Sustainability and Environment Parks Victoria

iv Beechworth Historic Park

INTRODUCTION TO BOX-IRONBARK PARKS

The Box-Ironbark forests and woodlands lie The Box-Ironbark forests have been associated inland of the in northern with agriculture, forestry and gold mining from Victoria. Extending in a broad band from the 1830s. The major reefs and underground through Chiltern, Beechworth and ore bodies helped establish and maintain , they reappear near Numurkah and towns, and together with forest products, continue through Heathcote, , contributed to the state’s economic Maryborough and St Arnaud to Ararat and development. Stawell. At the time of European settlement Different people value the forests in different they covered almost three million ha, or 13% ways, but local communities have strong of Victoria. feelings of pride in and ownership of their Box-Ironbark forests and woodlands are Box-Ironbark landscapes. The creation of the unique to Australia, valued by local Box-Ironbark parks presents further communities and celebrated in literature and opportunities to celebrate, protect and enhance art. The landscapes of the region have also these special landscapes. inspired poets, writers and artists, both past Because much of the Box-Ironbark area was and contemporary, including Banjo Paterson suitable for grazing and other forms of and Steele Rudd. With the creation of a highly agriculture, and because it coincides with protected system of parks and reserves in Victoria’s gold country, European settlement 2002, the future of these forests and woodlands has had a substantial impact. More than 80% is assured. of the area has been cleared, and nearly all the Beechworth Historic Park protects 1090 ha of remainder (496 000 ha, of which 372 000 ha is forests and woodlands, including nationally on public land) has been affected by grazing, threatened Box-Ironbark flora and fauna timber cutting and other pressures from communities. The park surrounds the historic settlement. Past land uses have also town of Beechworth and provides a natural contributed to region-wide problems of pest connection with the region’s historic and plants and animals, salinity and soil erosion. natural attractions. Interestingly, the gold mining, which had a Box-Ironbark areas are part of Country of significant initial impact on these Traditional Owners. There are many areas rich environments, also contributed to their in archaeological, cultural and spiritual protection. To ensure supplies of timber for significance throughout the region. mining needs, the government established Increasingly, Indigenous communities are forest reserves. These became the setting for involved in revealing and protecting settlements and communities and the Indigenous heritage. backyards for local people growing up in the area. Some are the basis of today’s parks and Box-Ironbark forests and woodlands contain reserves. some of Victoria’s most significant historic gold mining landscapes and features on public Although dominated by box and ironbark land, including areas of national cultural eucalypts, the Box-Ironbark forests are not heritage significance. This has been recognised uniform. Six broad vegetation and landscape in the establishment of Castlemaine Diggings types and no fewer than 73 Ecological National Heritage Park, a first for Australia Vegetation Classes are recognised. The most and the retention of Beechworth Historic Park. extensive classes originally were Plains Grassy These landscapes and sites are associated with Woodland, Grassy Woodland and Box- many former gold towns and settlements, and Ironbark Forest; all now considered combine with them to form a region of strong endangered or depleted. historic character and interest. The historic Fragmentation and loss of habitat mean that gold mining landscapes are significant almost 300 Box-Ironbark plant species (out of components of tourism in the region today. a total of 1500 flowering plant species), and 53 of a total of 250 vertebrate fauna species, are

Beechworth Historic Park v Introduction to Box-Ironbark parks now considered threatened. Many species, The parks should not be seen as separately particularly of birds, are in an ongoing state of managed ‘islands’ but as reservoirs of decline. A key aim of Box-Ironbark biodiversity within a broader landscape. conservation and management is therefore the Protecting and enhancing natural values on recovery of species, as well as the protection of other public and private land in the region is those species not currently threatened. vital, improving and connecting habitat for native species. The parks and the people who One of the greatest losses has been that of manage them are an integral part of local large old box and ironbark trees, which communities, and these communities in turn produce reliable and abundant nectar, supply will play a key role in their protection, foraging sites such as peeling bark and fallen promotion and management. timber for ground-dwelling animals, and have many hollows vital for native mammals and The long-term protection of the region’s birds. Instead of a landscape of large old and cultural heritage and biodiversity, including widely spaced trees, much is dominated by that of its parks and reserves, relies on the multi-stemmed coppice regrowth. community fostering a strong sense of custodianship of the parks and reserves and the In October 2002, after many years of study and landscapes of which they are an important part. debate, the Victorian government proclaimed a The plan seeks to rebuild the natural linkages number of parks designed primarily to protect in a fragmented landscape through the and enhance the natural and cultural values of goodwill of the community together with the some of the remaining original Box-Ironbark help of land managers and the government, forests. The parks were also to be available for while respecting cultural, economic and a range of appropriate recreational activities community associations with the land. and for community enjoyment and appreciation. They comprise five national Because of their rich Indigenous and European parks, five State parks, seven regional parks, heritage, in addition to their natural attractions, two historic parks and reserves and one the Box-Ironbark parks are likely to have a national heritage park. There are also some 300 growing significance for Victorians and conservation reserves to help link these park visitors from interstate and overseas in the areas, bringing some connectivity to an years ahead. The parks may not be major otherwise fragmented landscape. tourism attractions in their own right, but they are integral to the character of growing smaller Some of the parks, like Chiltern–Mt Pilot and communities such as Beechworth, Stanley and Greater Bendigo National Parks, are extensions Chiltern. They have great potential as a of existing parks; others like Heathcote– complementary product for people who come Graytown National Park and Broken–Boosey to the region for other reasons, such as seeking State Park are completely new. But together social, recreational, sporting or heritage they are a significant step towards halting the experiences. There is also potential for decline of threatened species in the Box- Indigenous communities and products to Ironbark forests and woodlands, increasing support the development and delivery of Box- community recognition of the values of the Ironbark experiences for visitors. forests and woodlands, and improving opportunities to develop tourism and related This plan explains these values and attractions industries. in detail for Beechworth Historic Park, and sets out how they will be protected and managed.

vi Beechworth Historic Park

SUMMARY

Beechworth Historic Park adjoins the heritage Visitors to the park will continue to enjoy the town of Beechworth, 280 km north east of diverse attractions offered, aided by quality Melbourne, in an area noted for its cultural visitor facilities and interpretation highlighting features and natural beauty. the important role of gold mining in Victoria’s early development. The area contains eucalypt and cypress-pine forests, tranquil streams, steep gullies and Integration of the recreation and information rugged outcrops, and is notable for historic services of the park with those in the town of remnants from Victoria’s gold rush era. Beechworth will provide a natural connection to the region’s historic and nature based Beechworth Historic Park is one of only four tourism attractions. heritage parks in the state. It protects a number of gold mining sites and landscapes. There are Key elements of the plan include: sluiced gullies, water races, diversions, • Development of a partnership with the tunnels, shafts, and occupation sites of miners. Indigo Shire Council to integrate the In addition there are numerous associated promotion and interpretation of the gold historic features including tracks, dams, forest heritage assets and the provision of visitor regrowth and place names which reflect the information. history of the area. Knowledge surrounding Indigenous • Promotion of the Gorge Scenic Drive as a occupation continues to be revealed through key recreational visitor attraction. close partnerships with the local Indigenous • Protection for the significant cultural communities and, where relevant, learnings are landscape. incorporated into the park’s management. • Special protection for threatened flora, The park also protects a number of State and fauna, and significant historic places. nationally threatened species of flora including the principal population of Yellow Hyacinth- • Respect for Indigenous cultural values and orchid in Victoria, several birds, a reptile sensitive management in accordance with (Bandy Bandy) and a marsupial (Brush-tailed the views of the Traditional Owners. Phascogale). • Control of pest species, particularly weeds, As part of the Nine Mile, Clear and Hurdle rabbits and foxes. Creeks Special Water Catchment Protection • Coordinated management, promotion and Area, the park contributes to the provision of interpretation of the park’s heritage assets drinking water for the region and the with nearby heritage assets, including maintenance of catchment values of the Ovens those in Nine Mile Creek Historic Area catchment. and Eldorado Historic Reserve.

Beechworth Historic Park vii

CONTENTS

FOREWORD iii

APPROVED MANAGEMENT PLAN iv

INTRODUCTION TO BOX-IRONBARK PARKS v

SUMMARY vii

1 INTRODUCTION 1

1.1 Location and planning area 1 1.2 Creation of the park 1 1.3 Plan development 1

2 BASIS 3

2.1 Regional context 3 2.2 Park values and significance 3 2.3 Evidence of past use 4 2.4 The park visitor 5 2.5 Legislation, ECC recommendations and guidelines 5 2.6 Policies and guidelines 6

3 STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS 8

3.1 Park vision 8 3.2 Zoning 8 3.3 Management directions 8

4 STRATEGIES FOR CULTURAL VALUES CONSERVATION 12

4.1 Indigenous cultural heritage 12 4.2 Historic heritage 13

5 STRATEGIES FOR NATURAL VALUES CONSERVATION 15

5.1 Landscape 15 5.2 Geological and landform features 15 5.3 Soil conservation 16 5.4 Rivers and catchments 16 5.5 Vegetation 17 5.6 Fauna 18 5.7 Fire management 19 5.8 Pest plants and animals 20

6 STRATEGIES FOR VISITORS 22

6.1 Information, interpretation and education 22 6.2 Access 23 6.3 Day visitors 25 6.4 Camping 25 6.5 Prospecting 26 6.6 Walking 27

viii Beechworth Historic Park Contents

6.7 Horse riding 27 6.8 Cycling and mountain bike riding 27 6.9 Orienteering and rogaining 29 6.10 Dog walking 29 6.11 Rock climbing and abseiling 29 6.12 Tourism services 30 6.13 Public safety 30

7 STRATEGIES FOR AUTHORISED AND ADJACENT USES 32

7.1 Infrastructure 32 7.2 Private occupancies 33 7.3 Occasional uses 33 7.4 Park boundaries and adjacent uses 34

8 STRATEGIES FOR COMMUNITY AWARENESS AND INVOLVEMENT 36

8.1 Community awareness 36 8.2 Community participation 36 8.3 Agency partnerships 37

9 PLAN IMPLEMENTATION 39

9.1 Delivery and reporting 39 9.2 Plan amendment 39 9.3 Evaluation and review 40

REFERENCES 42

GLOSSARY 45

APPENDICES 1 Management objectives for historic parks 47 2 Submissions on the Draft Management Plan 48 3 Historic places 49 4 Rare and threatened flora 50 5 Rare and threatened fauna 51 6 Pest plants and animals 52

TABLES 1 Management zone and overlays 10 2 Summary of recreational opportunities 11 3 Interpretation themes and facilities 23 4 Management of vehicular roads and tracks 24 5 Existing and planned visitor facilities 26 6 Management of walking tracks 28

FIGURES 1 Regional locality plan End of plan 2 Management zone and overlays " 3 Visitor access and facilities " 4 Park and adjacent land uses "

Beechworth Historic Park ix

1 INTRODUCTION

Woolshed Falls (52 ha) was excised from the 1.1 Location and planning area park and added to Chiltern–Mt Pilot National Beechworth Historic Park (1090 ha) connects Park in October 2002. Several small additions with the historic township of Beechworth in were made to the park, and two cleared the north-east region of Victoria, 280 km north paddocks (7 ha) with no park value and several of Melbourne and 30 km east of sections of road contributing to the council (figure 1). The park comprises 10 separate road network were excised as a result of the blocks (figure 2). These are: National Parks (and Other Amendments Act) 2004 (Vic.), bringing the total area to 1090 ha. • The Gorge The name of the park was formally changed • Kerferd from Beechworth Park to Beechworth Historic • Sheep Station Creek Park in 2004 through amendment of the National Parks Act. • Two Mile Creek • Three Mile Creek 1.3 Plan development • Six Mile Creek This Management Plan for Beechworth Historic Park was prepared by Parks Victoria • Flat Rock on the basis of existing information, reports • Graveyard and research findings that relate to the park. The plan is informed and supported by a range • Green Wattle of best practice management systems. Input of • Yack and Telegraph Rock. information and advice was sought and received from the Chiltern–Mt Pilot National Ten hectares of the Kerferd block is declared a Park and Beechworth Historic Park Special Water Catchment Protection Area Management Plan Advisory Group, local under the Catchment and Land Protection Act communities, groups, individuals and agencies 1994 (Vic.). with particular interests in the park. Throughout this management plan, ‘the park’ Information concerning the planning process refers to the whole of Beechworth Historic was distributed through local community Park. networks, and posted on Parks Victoria’s website. Opportunity to comment was made 1.2 Creation of the park available through ‘Have Your Say’ brochures Beechworth Historic Park was first included on also available on Parks Victoria’s website and Schedule Three (Other Parks) of the National at local Parks Victoria offices. Several issue- Parks Act 1975 (Vic.) on 26 April 1980 specific forums were held with relevant following government acceptance of the Land stakeholders to resolve matters of a more Conservation Council’s (LCC) complex nature, and discussion and recommendations for the North-Eastern Study information papers were also distributed to Area (LCC 1977). Following a subsequent stakeholders and the Advisory Group. North-Eastern Area (Benalla–Upper Murray) The plan takes into account feedback from Review (LCC 1986) a further nine hectares discussions with the Advisory Group, various were added to the park on 23 August 1989. At stakeholder groups and individuals, including the same time, a disturbed area along Three Indigenous communities, community groups, Mile Creek was excised from the park. special interest groups and government In accordance with the government’s agencies. acceptance of the Environment Conservation The plan is a proposed strategic guide for Council’s (ECC) recommendations for the future management of Beechworth Historic Box-Ironbark Forests and Woodlands Park. As a public document the plan proposes Investigation (ECC 2001), an area including how Parks Victoria will protect Beechworth

Beechworth Historic Park 1 Introduction

Historic Park’s natural and cultural values, and The Draft Management Plan was published for the services and facilities that will be provided public comment in June 2006, and 12 to help visitors to enjoy, appreciate and submissions were received (appendix 2). All understand the park in ways that are consistent submissions on the draft plan were carefully with this. The plan also describes proposals to considered and taken into account in inform the community about the park, preparation of this Final Management Plan. encourage interested groups to become Where necessary, further consultation with the involved in park management programs and community and stakeholders was undertaken. encourage cooperative land management and Key changes made to the draft plan in participation in community-based programs preparing this Final Management Plan involving Parks Victoria and managers of areas included: adjacent to the park. • reviewing access for orienteering and As a working document for the park, the plan rogaining to take place within Special informs Parks Victoria’s development of Protection Areas through allowing limited Corporate Plans, serves as a framework for size events managed by permits subsequent detailed planning and governs management activities. • updated information to describe links of An initial draft management plan was released the park’s walking track network to for public comment in October 2001. adjacent parks and attractions Finalisation of the plan was deferred pending • additional information on strategies to the outcomes of the Box-Ironbark Forests and guide the management and access of Woodlands Investigation Final Report (ECC mountain bikes 2001). Submissions received on the initial draft were considered in the development of this • updated of flora and fauna information. plan. This management plan will guide future management of the Beechworth Historic Park, until reviewed (section 9.3).

2 Beechworth Historic Park

2 BASIS

Other significant parks and reserves in the 2.1 Regional context region are: The region is characterised by a range of heritage sites and historic buildings associated • Chiltern–Mt Pilot National Park, including with early Victorian agricultural development, Woolshed Falls, which is contiguous with gold mining, and infamous historical figures Beechworth Historic Park. Chiltern–Mt such as . Major population centres Pilot National Park is typified by dry Box include –Wodonga to the north, Woodland and Box-Ironbark forest and Wangaratta to the west and Myrtleford to the contains a major concentration of south. Small rural centres such as Stanley and threatened flora and fauna. Important are located nearby. Aboriginal places and objects are also protected within the national park. The park is one of a number of historic parks and reserves across the State where the • Eldorado Historic Reserve, containing the landscape reflects the role of gold mining in 100 m long Eldorado Dredge. The dredge the development of Victoria. The park highlights the technical aspects and scale surrounds the historic, National Trust listed, of the latter-day gold production method of ‘Notable Town’ of Beechworth and is part of a dredging, and is the only complete dredge network of historic places and other significant remaining in Victoria. gold mining heritage locations such as • Nine Mile Creek Historic Area, which , Eldorado, Nine Mile Creek shares common heritage values and visitor and Chiltern. The park and other parks in the use patterns with the park, and has close area are considered in Tourism Victoria’s ties with the heritage town of Beechworth. North East Regional Tourism Development The Historic Area contains an important Plan (Tourism Victoria 2004) and form part of example of mining technology, the Victoria’s High Country experience. Wallaby Mine Battery and Smelter site. The park also lies on the border of the • Warby Range State Park, a highly diverse significant Box-Ironbark country of north- dry Box Woodland containing White central Victoria. An area of 606 ha of the park Cypress-pine and grass-tree communities. was considered in the ECC Box-Ironbark Forest and Woodlands Investigation (ECC The park falls within the Indigo Shire Council 2001), and as such will be managed in and, as part of the Reedy Creek subcatchment accordance with government-accepted ECC of the Ovens Basin, is strongly influenced by recommendations (section 2.5). the actions of the North East Catchment Management Authority (NECMA). The park is contiguous with other heritage landscapes at Beechworth and has common The fragmented nature of this park emphasises boundaries with a range of public and private the importance of coordinated management at landholders. the regional level. The park is an important link in a vegetation 2.2 Park values and significance corridor joining the foothill forests of the with the riverine plain of the The park makes a valuable contribution to Murray River. It lies within the Lower and Mid Victoria’s parks and reserves system, which Ovens catchments, within the area of aims to protect viable representative samples responsibility of the North East Catchment of the State’s natural and cultural environments Management Authority. occurring on public land. Beechworth Historic Park is one of only four parks reserved under Indigenous tradition indicates the park is part the National Parks Act with a principal focus of Country of the Dhudhuroa and Waywurru on the protection of cultural heritage values. people. The Bangerang/Pangerang and Yaitmatang people may also have inhabited the The park protects a range of sites and artefacts region around Beechworth (DVC 2004). important for the mining history of the region.

Beechworth Historic Park 3 Basis

These sites, often associated with the provision • Nine Mile, Clear and Hurdle Creeks of water to the goldfields, include races, Special Water Catchment Protection Area tunnels, diversions and sluices. A number of covering 10 ha of the Kerferd block. sites, landscapes and artefacts are specifically protected under the Heritage Act 1995 (Vic.), • Significant landscape features listed on the are nominated or listed on the Register of the Register of the National Estate, classified National Estate or are registered by the by the National Trust of Australia and National Trust of Australia (Victoria). These listed in the Indigo Shire Council Planning sites are closely linked with complementary Scheme. buildings and streetscapes of the township of Beechworth, especially the Ford Street Recreation and tourism values precinct, which contains the best representation • A key tourist attraction for visitors to the of goldfield governance buildings in Victoria. Beechworth region — one of four regional locations identified by Parks Victoria for Significant features of Beechworth Historic promotion as centres for presentation, Park are summarised below. interpretation and marketing of gold mining history. Cultural values • The cultural landscape or physical form of • Outdoor recreational and educational the park that reflects a significant gold opportunities relating to the enjoyment and mining heritage, distinctive to this part of appreciation of cultural heritage and Victoria. nature, which provide a complementary experience for visitors exploring the gold • Individual historic mining sites (appendix mining heritage of the region. 3) which provide fascinating insights into alluvial mining technology, use of water • A natural setting appreciated by locals as a for mining and quartz reef mining place in which to recreate or just enjoy, technology. creating a sense of health and wellbeing. • The park contributes to the historical 2.3 Evidence of past use setting for the town of Beechworth and has Records of Indigenous archaeological and special meaning for the community. cultural sites maintained for the abutting Mt • Historic places and a cultural landscape Pilot Range and Beechworth region suggest a that contribute to the cultural heritage of close relationship between Indigenous people the region. and the land now protected within the park. However, the value of the park’s landscape to Natural values the Indigenous people is yet to be documented • Unusual geology and transitional (section 5.1). vegetation types providing a diverse The park has a rich gold mining history with vegetative community with a concentration landscapes that include physical remnants of of significant flora and fauna species. gold mining endeavours such as roads, races, • A population of Yellow Hyacinth-orchid, tunnels, mullock heaps, shafts, sluiced gullies, critical to its conservation in the Northern regenerated forests, deposited sedimentary Inland Slopes Bioregion. material and dredge dams created during the period from 1852 to the 1950s. The large • Twelve rare or threatened flora species numbers of miners that descended on the town including five listed under the Flora and rapidly changed much of the landscape in their Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 (Vic.) efforts to find gold. Activities caused (appendix 4). widespread and substantial ground disturbance. • Twelve rare or threatened fauna species In particular, shallow alluvial mining and including ten listed under the Flora and ‘sluicing’ translocated most Tertiary soils from Fauna Guarantee Act (appendix 5). the stream network in the park, while timber removal for use in steam engines and as pit props was extensive. The floor of Spring Creek running through the Gorge block has been

4 Beechworth Historic Park Basis heavily modified by deposits of sedimentary values. The Gorge Scenic Drive is a popular material, some eight metres deep, from drive, and particularly suited to visitors with sluicing and mining activities upstream. less mobility. However, with the demise of mining activities, The park is also enjoyed by local residents and vegetation has gradually re-established and many visit the park throughout the year for soils stabilised over most of the landscape. bush walking, sightseeing, bike and horse Place names and locations are often the only riding and family/visitor outings. For some, obvious reminders of some historical events. activities enjoyed in the park are often A number of 19th century quarries within associated with daily exercise and other Beechworth Historic Park were used as a recreational pursuits. source of stone for the distinctive buildings, In terms of statewide priorities, Parks Victoria roads and bridges of Beechworth. has rated Beechworth Historic Park as a park During the 20th and 21st centuries, timber, of regional value for the provision of visitor minor forest produce, firewood, and water services. An appreciation of the park’s cultural from the Nine Mile and Hurdle Creeks and natural values will be promoted, together catchments have been harvested for the with picnicking. Resources will focus on The Beechworth community. Gorge Scenic Drive, the principal visitor site in the park. 2.4 The park visitor 2.5 Legislation, ECC The Beechworth region principally attracts recommendations and visitors from Melbourne, Canberra, country guidelines Victoria, and south-eastern New South Wales, who come to experience the region’s gold era Beechworth Historic Park is reserved and heritage, cultural and natural attractions. managed under Schedule Three of the National Parks Act. The Act requires the Secretary to Visitation in the park is closely associated with DSE to preserve and protect the natural visitation to the township of Beechworth. condition of the park, and its natural, cultural Annual visit numbers for the town are and other features and, subject to this, to estimated at around 600 000 by the Indigo provide for the use of the park by the public Tourism Board. for enjoyment, recreation and education. The park is easily accessed from the township Appropriate research activities are also of Beechworth, where accommodation is provided for under the Act. serviced by the many bed and breakfasts, The objects and provisions of the National hotels, motels and caravan parks. Parks Act set the framework for the The park offers two distinctive experiences for management of Beechworth Historic Park visitors. Visits to post-European settlement (appendix 1). Specific legislation and ECC heritage features within the park provide recommendations accepted by government also opportunities to appreciate the gold mining govern specific aspects of management of the history of the area, how it modified the park as described below and in subsequent landscape, and the connections to the other sections of the plan. historic mining sites in the region and the The Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 (Vic.) township of Beechworth. Natural features such applies to the park and protects all Aboriginal as the eucalypt and native cypress-pine forests, places, objects and Aboriginal human remains steep gullies, streams, waterfalls and rocky (section 4.1). outcrops, provide opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of the Australian landscape and The Native Title Act 1993 (Cwlth) applies to to participate in a range of nature based the management of the park. recreation activities. The Heritage Act 1995 (Vic.) applies to the Outdoor recreational opportunities in the park protection and conservation of all are extensive. Some activities are managed archaeological relics within the park. because of the limited park area and to The Environment Protection and Biodiversity minimise conflict between park users and park Conservation Act 1999 (Cwlth) applies to the

Beechworth Historic Park 5 Basis whole of the park with respect to actions that 2.6 Policies and guidelines have, will have, or are likely to have a The park is managed in accordance with Parks significant impact on matters of national Victoria’s operational policies, and as environmental or cultural significance. appropriate, consistent with other policies and The Parks Victoria Act 1998 (Vic.) enables guidelines, including the following: management services for Beechworth Historic • Recreation Framework for Box-Ironbark Park to be provided on behalf of the Secretary Public Land (DSE 2003a) to DSE by Parks Victoria. The National Parks (Park) Regulations 2003 apply to the park. • Heritage Management Strategy (Parks Other legislation, and policies and guidelines Victoria 2003a) (section 2.6) at both the Commonwealth and • Heritage Action Plan for Beechworth State levels apply to management of the park Mining Sites (Kaufman 2002) and specific activities and uses. • Victoria’s Heritage – Strengthening our ECC Recommendations Communities ( 2006) The former Environment Conservation Council • Linking Victoria’s Gold Heritage (Parks (ECC), in the Box-Ironbark Forests and Victoria 1999a) Woodlands Investigation Final Report (ECC • Indigenous Partnership Strategy and 2001), made a number of recommendations Action Plan (Parks Victoria 2005a) that relate to the park. The recommendations included: • Guidelines for Working with Aboriginal Communities and Protection of Cultural Recommendation C Beechworth Historic Park Sites (Parks Victoria 2002) (C7) be managed in accordance with the general recommendations for regional parks, • National Strategy for Ecologically but retained on Schedule Three of the National Sustainable Development (COAG 1992) Parks Act. • National Strategy for the Conservation of R8 Land managers continue with and further Australia’s Biological Diversity (ANZECC develop adaptive management research 2001) and monitoring programs, develop targeted new programs and apply the • Victoria’s Biodiversity Strategy (NRE results where appropriate. 1997a) R15 Planning and management relating to • North East Region Fire Protection Plan traditional interests and uses be based on (DSE 2003b) recognition and respect for the traditional • Code of Practice for Fire Management on and contemporary relationship of Public Land (DSE 2006) Aboriginal peoples with the land. • Guidelines and Procedures for Ecological R42 Box-Ironbark public lands be available for Burning on Public Land in Victoria (DSE a range of recreation activities for 2004b). community enjoyment and appreciation and appropriate to the land use category. The park is also managed within a broader context of a number of other plans and All of these recommendations were accepted strategies, including: by State Government in February 2002 (Government of Victoria 2002). • Victoria’s Nature Based Tourism Strategy — Draft Plan 2007–2011, (Tourism Victoria 2007)

6 Beechworth Historic Park Basis

• North East Regional Catchment Strategy (NECMA 2003) • Ovens Basin Water Quality Strategy (NECMA 2000) • Policy for Sustainable Recreation and Tourism on Victoria’s Public Land (NRE 2002) • Tourism Victoria Regional Tourism Development Plan — 2004–2007 (Tourism Victoria 2004).

Beechworth Historic Park 7

3 STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS

3.1 Park vision • indicate which management directions have priority in different parts of the park Beechworth Historic Park, nestled within the historic district of Beechworth, protects a • indicate the types and levels of use range of significant heritage places, natural and appropriate throughout the park cultural values. The park is valued by local • assist in minimising existing and potential residents, park neighbours and the broader conflicts between users, or between users community as a scenic backdrop and for its and the protection of park values contribution to the town’s heritage values. • provide a basis for assessing the suitability Contributing to the ‘Beechworth experience’, of future activities and development the park provides opportunities to explore the proposals. area’s mining heritage and the outstanding scenery of gorges, granitic outcrops, clear One management zone applies to the park – streams and bushland. A variety of walking the Conservation and Recreation Zone. tracks and touring routes provide access to In addition, six overlays are used to highlight stunning views and mining relics for a range of management requirements additional to those users including bush walkers, cyclists, horse of the underlying management zone. riders and motorists. Carefully managed and sympathetically placed visitor facilities The six overlays are: Land Use Designation – provide comfort and information while helping Water Supply Catchment; Land Use to protect the landscape’s cultural and natural Designation – Prospecting; Special Protection values. Area–Cultural Values; Special Protection Area – Natural Values; Special Management Area – The park’s cultural heritage is well understood Public Utilities; and Special Management Area and documented through partnerships with – Public Safety. Details of zone and overlay local Indigenous communities, historical characteristics are provided in table 1. societies, the local community and individuals. Boundaries of the zone and overlays are shown Visitors’ appreciation of the area is enhanced in figure 2. by high-quality interpretation provided in partnership with the Beechworth township as 3.3 Management directions well as within the park. Major management directions for the park are The park is a natural haven within a rural outlined below. landscape to many rare or threatened flora and fauna species, including Yellow Hyacinth- The Traditional Owners’ knowledge and orchid, Warby Swamp Gum, Brush-tailed interests in the area and aspirations for Country Phascogale, and Barking Owl, which are will be reflected in the park’s planning and protected by comprehensive natural values management, in accordance with legislation programs. and policies (Parks Victoria 2005a).

Park neighbours, Landcare, historical and Cultural values conservation Indigenous groups are actively involved with • Historic places and values will be park managers in environmental and cultural conserved by protecting them from programs to nurture and maintain the diversity damaging or inappropriate activities. within the evolving park environment. • Indigenous cultural obligations relating to 3.2 Zoning Country will be respected, and Traditional Owners and Indigenous communities’ A park management zoning and overlay knowledge promoted and interpreted in scheme has been developed to: accordance with their views. • provide a geographic framework in which • Cultural heritage sites and landscapes will to manage the park be documented and managed to protect

8 Beechworth Historic Park Strategic directions

their heritage values and minimise visitor • Visitor enjoyment will be enhanced by impacts. appropriate management of recreation activities and facilities. • Historic places and landscapes will be conserved and presented in conjunction • A range of opportunities will be provided with other historic mining sites in the area for visitors to experience the park’s post- to tell the story of the area’s mining settlement heritage. heritage. • A range of quality recreational experiences • Historians and archaeologists will be will be maintained at sustainable levels. encouraged to assist in improving overall understanding and appreciation of the • Visitors will be encouraged to adopt park’s heritage. minimal-impact techniques and to adhere to industry developed standards appropriate to their activity. Natural values conservation

• Threatened flora and fauna species and Community awareness and involvement communities will be protected. • The wider community will be encouraged • Prescribed burning will be managed in to become more aware of the park and accordance with the North East Region appreciative of its values. Fire Protection Plan (DSE 2003b) and Code of Practice for Fire Management on • A Community Reference Group will be Public Land (DSE 2006). formed to help build relationships and community awareness of the park. • Containing emerging threats including pest plants and animals and reducing these at a • Local communities and individuals will be local scale in the long-term will be encouraged to develop a sense of priority. custodianship for the park, and become Friends and involved in its management. • Pest plant and animal control strategies that identify key sites, target species and • Strong collaborative partnerships will be control methods will be implemented in developed with the relevant Registered cooperation with neighbours, Aboriginal Party to facilitate the reflection municipalities and other public land of Indigenous knowledge, interests and managers. aspirations in the park’s planning and management. • Actions of the Ovens Basin Water Quality Strategy (NECMA 2000) will be supported • Collaborative partnerships will be where they affect the quality of water established with relevant agencies to entering, held in or leaving the park. progress areas of mutual interest which strengthen protection of the park. • Water quality in designated catchments will be protected. • A partnership will be developed with the Indigo Shire Council to support coordination and cooperation in the The park visit promotion and interpretation of the park as • Visitor understanding and appreciation of an integral part of the post-settlement the park’s natural and cultural heritage heritage landscape. values will be enhanced by a range of information services. • Park interpretation will be delivered in conjunction with the Indigo Shire Council and tourism outlets and will complement the interpretation of Beechworth township.

Beechworth Historic Park 9 Strategic directions

TABLE 1 MANAGEMENT ZONE AND OVERLAYS

ZONE/OVERLAY AREA/LOCATION VALUES GENERAL MANAGEMENT AIMS

ZONE

Conservation and Beechworth Historic Important natural and Protect natural and cultural environments and Recreation Zone Park, 1090 ha, 100% cultural values with provide for sustainable, dispersed of park. scope for recreation recreational activities and small-scale opportunities. recreational facilities without significant

impact on natural processes and cultural values.

OVERLAYS

Land Use Designation Kerferd block, Special Water Protect the quality of water by restricting the – Water Supply 26 ha, 2.4% of park. Catchment Supply level and types of recreation activities. Catchment Protection Area. Land Use Designation Two Mile, Three Mile Recreational Allow suitable prospecting while protecting – Prospecting and Six Mile Creek prospecting area. biodiversity, catchment, geological and blocks, 125 ha, 11.5% cultural values. of park. Special Protection Four sites within the Historic sites and Protect sensitive cultural and archaeological Area – Cultural park 164.5 ha, 15% of landscapes of State or sites and artefacts. Values park. regional significance. Special Protection Three sites within Highly significant Protect vulnerable natural values. Area – Natural Values Sheep Station Creek natural values for and The Gorge block, FFG species. 251.7 ha, 23% of park. Special Management North East Region Maintenance and Minimise the impact of activities associated Area – Public Utilities Water Authority operation of water with the operation of the water supply pipelines, 15.6 ha, supply pipelines. pipelines. 1.5% of park Special Management Kerferd Walking Safety buffers. Minimise risks to park visitors. Area – Public Safety Track, 3 ha,

Rocky Mountain Tunnel, 6 ha, <1% of park.

10 Beechworth Historic Park Strategic directions

TABLE 2 SUMMARY OF RECREATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

ACTIVITY MANAGEMENT OVERLAYS ZONE

1 2 3 4 5

(percentage of park) (100%) (2.4%) (11.5%) (15%) (23%) Bird watching Y Y Y Y Y Bushwalking (section 6.6) Y Y Y Y Y Car rallies (section 6.2) N N N N N Camping (section 6.4) N N N N N Cycling (includes mountain bikes) Y Y Y Y Y (section 6.8) Dog walking on lead (section 6.10) Y Y Y Y Y Education / Guided activities Y Y Y Y Y Firewood collection / removal N N N N N Fire – liquid fuel or gas (section 5.7) Y Y Y Y Y Feeding wildlife N N N N N Fishing (section 6.3) Y N N N N Heritage appreciation Y N Y Y N Horse riding (section 6.7) Y Y N Y Y Hunting N N N N N Licensed tours Y Y Y Y Y Motor bike riding (section 6.2) Y Y Y Y Y Nature appreciation Y Y Y Y Y Orienteering / Rogaining (section 6.9) Y Y Y N Y* Picnicking Y Y Y Y N Prospecting (section 6.5) Y N Y Y N Rock climbing/abseiling (section 6.11) Y N N N N Scenic driving (2WD) (section 6.2) Y Y Y Y Y Scenic driving (4WD only) (section Y N/A Y Y Y 6.2) Swimming (section 6.3) Y Y Y Y Y Trail bike riding (section 6.2) Y Y Y Y Y * Orienteering and rogaining events with less than 50 competitors will be permitted in the SPA – Natural Values, in accordance with a permit and conditions. Key: 1 Conservation and Recreation Zone Y Permitted subject to overlay prescriptions and 2 Land Use Designation – Water Supply Catchment conditions prescribed by legislation, licensed tour permits or elsewhere in the plan as indicated 3 Land Use Designation – Prospecting N Not appropriate 4 Special Protection Area – Cultural Values N/A Not applicable 5 Special Protection Area – Natural Values Note: Recreation activities are not permitted in the Special Management Area – Public Safety and Special Management Area – Public Utilities

Beechworth Historic Park 11

4 STRATEGIES FOR CULTURAL VALUES CONSERVATION

4.1 Indigenous cultural heritage • Support the views of the Traditional Owners in managing the park. The pattern of past Indigenous use of the park is uncertain, although a long-standing Management strategies relationship with the area is highly likely given • Protect all Indigenous places and objects the number of records of Indigenous from disturbance and damage in archaeological and cultural sites maintained for partnership with the relevant Registered the adjoining Chiltern–Mt Pilot National Park Aboriginal Party and in cooperation with (Sale & Hall 1993). Recent surveys in the DVC (section 8.3), and in accordance region have identified a range of sites, with: including scarred trees, stone artefact scatters, rock wells and grinding grooves (DVC 2004). y relevant legislation including the Eleven rock art sites, though not in the park, Aboriginal Heritage Act have been identified in the vicinity of y relevant cooperative management Beechworth (DVC 2004). There are currently agreements no records lodged with Aboriginal Affairs Victoria (AAV) for sites within the park. The y Parks Victoria’s Guidelines for park’s close proximity to a developing Working with Aboriginal Communities township associated with gold mining era and Protection of Cultural Sites (Parks activities most likely disturbed archaeological Victoria 2002). and cultural sites within the park. • Respect the views of the Traditional The park has been documented as forming part Owners and the cultural obligations of of Country of the Dhudhuroa and Waywurru Indigenous communities. people, who may have participated in the • Assess annual park programs to integrate seasonal migratory movement from the valleys relevant Indigenous practices and to the alpine high country. The minimise the potential for impact of park Bangerang/Pangerang and Yaitmatang people management activities on Aboriginal may also have inhabited the region around cultural heritage in consultation with the Beechworth (DVC 2004). relevant Registered Aboriginal Party All Aboriginal places, objects and Aboriginal (section 8.2). human remains are protected under the • Where appropriate, encourage research Aboriginal Heritage Act (section 2.5). It is an into the Indigenous cultural heritage offence to damage, interfere with or endanger relating to the park in collaboration with an Aboriginal place, object or human remains relevant Registered Aboriginal Party, except in accordance with a Cultural Heritage representative bodies of the Traditional Management Plan developed with the relevant Owners and the relevant Indigenous Registered Aboriginal Party(s) or where there communities and in liaison with AAV is no Registered Aboriginal Party with the (section 8.3). Use results to target Department of Victorian Communities (DVC). protection and other management Issues relating to the protection of Aboriginal activities. cultural heritage are approached in accordance • Maintain confidentiality in respect of with this Act. Issues relating to native title are Indigenous knowledge, places, objects and dealt with according to the Native Title Act aspirations, in accordance with the views (section 2.5). of the Traditional Owners.

Aims • Work with the relevant Registered • Protect Aboriginal cultural heritage from Aboriginal Party to assess and identify interference or damaging activities. Indigenous cultural heritage suitable for promotion and interpretation (sections 6.1 and 8.2).

12 Beechworth Historic Park Strategies for cultural values conservation

4.2 Historic heritage managed in accordance with the Burra Charter (Australia ICOMOS 1999). Sites of State or European settlement of the area dates back to regional significance (appendix 3) are covered 1837, when squatters settled and established by the Special Protection Area – Cultural their runs, which were disrupted by the Heritage overlay (section 3.2). discovery of gold in February 1852. This find on the banks of Spring Creek, in the area There is a distinct relationship between the previously known as Mayday Hills, began a township of Beechworth, with its suite of gold rush and in just four months 5000 miners historic buildings reflecting the theme of had flocked to the town now known as mining governance, and the relics and Beechworth (CNR 1993). landscapes of the park showcasing the range of technology, particularly water transfer The Beechworth goldfield was principally an technology, used by the miners in all eras. alluvial goldfield, with hydraulic sluicing and dredging the main methods employed. Heritage Action Plans have been developed for Uncovering the precious mineral resulted in Reids Creek Goldfield and the Rocky the careless destruction of the surrounding Mountain Bucket Dredge (Kaufman 2002). No forests and streams. The park now protects conservation actions were identified for these these previously disturbed areas, and will, over sites, other than allowing natural processes to time, allow the forests to regenerate and operate, and avoiding management actions that streams to recover, however much evidence of would damage the historic features. the activities that took place during the gold Places of historic and cultural significance are era remains to be discovered. managed in accordance with the Burra Charter The park’s cultural values include a substantial of Australia ICOMOS and the provisions of number and range of gold mining artefacts the Heritage Act 1995 (Vic.). representing various gold mining technologies and activities from the 19th and 20th centuries, Aims including races, tunnels, mullock heaps, shafts, • Conserve and protect places and values of sluiced gullies, coppiced forests and dredge historic significance. dams (section 2.3). The more subtle alluvial mining sites are concentrated in Beechworth • Encourage learning and understanding Historic Park, while dramatic, well-preserved about the historic heritage of the park. quartz mining relics can be found in nearby • Integrate the presentation of the park’s Nine Mile Creek Historic Area. Many sites are historic features with that of Beechworth associated with the provision, transport or use township and the nearby historic mining of water, such as the Rocky Mountain Tunnel, reserves. Fletchers tailrace and Chevaliers Flour Mill. The significance of these sites and landscapes Management strategies has been recognised by the inclusion of the • Foster partnerships with the Indigo Shire Beechworth Historic Park on the register of the Council and Heritage Victoria to raise National Estate. In addition, six sites in the awareness and appreciation of the cultural park are listed on the Victorian Heritage heritage within the Beechworth area. Inventory because of their regional significance (appendix 3). These sites are • Document the condition of historic considered significant not only in their own features and sites in the park and add this right but more importantly because they data to Parks Victoria’s asset management remain in their original landscape setting. system. Fifteen sites of local significance spread • Monitor the condition of historic features throughout the park represent localities, and sites on a regular basis and identify mining technologies, and artefacts (appendix emerging risks to heritage values. 3). The restored Beechworth Powder Magazine managed by Indigo Shire and registered on the • Further investigate the role of Chevaliers National Estate Register, although outside the Flour Mill and the opportunity to expose park, is an important feature of Gorge Scenic and interpret foundations at the site. Drive. Historic and cultural places are

Beechworth Historic Park 13 Strategies for cultural values conservation

• Ensure all new developments within the • Record, research and retain historic park are designed to minimise their impact places names in the park. on historic landscape values. • Prepare a strategy in conjunction with • Apply risk management and assessment local community and Indigo Shire to techniques which consider heritage protect and interpret the mining heritage landscape values during risk management, within and outside the park (section 6.1). fire protection and emergency works. • Support partnerships with Indigo Shire • Encourage research by the community into and community groups to make the most of the social history of the park. opportunities to link the park with new initiatives and projects.

14 Beechworth Historic Park

5 STRATEGIES FOR NATURAL VALUES CONSERVATION

5.1 Landscape • Liaise with the Indigo Shire Council in relation to the management of Significant The park landscape is part of a mosaic of Landscape Overlays and planning cleared and vegetated land that typifies the applications for developments that may Beechworth region. Ridges are mostly affect landscape values. vegetated and valleys cleared for farming purposes. The tall, eastern mixed foothill • Identify and protect cultural heritage forests provide a strong contrast to the box and values of the landscape and provide cypress-pine woodlands of the drier western interpretation which will assist park portion of the park. The park lies within DSE’s visitors to understand their significance Lower Ovens Landscape Zone (DSE 2004a), (sections 4.1 and 6.1). within the Northern Inland Slopes and • Consider and respect the significance of Highlands–Northern Fall Bioregions. the landscape to Indigenous communities The Gorge Scenic Drive offers views of the in planning and implementing Spring Creek Gorge with its granite tors, moss management activities (sections 4.1, 6.1 beds, and waterfalls, as well as views of the and 8.2). surrounding countryside and overviews of the • Ensure landscape values are considered in town of Beechworth. Lookout sites on granite the review of the North East Region Fire slabs at One Tree Hill and the Precipice Protection Plan. provide panoramic views to the north and west. The Beechworth Scenic Drive (Gorge • Ensure all developments are planned and Scenic Drive) and Lake Kerferd and have been designed to minimise their impact on registered as classified landscapes by the landscape values. National Trust and included in Significant • Ensure key viewing points are maintained Landscape Overlay (SLO 2) of the Indigo to allow viewing of significant landscapes. Shire Council Planning Scheme (Indigo Shire Council 1999b). 5.2 Geological and landform The landscape is an intrinsic element of features Country for Traditional Owners and is The park is geologically complex with a significant for Indigenous communities. distinct landform change where Devonian The high landscape values require careful granites of the Mount Pilot Range to the north- consideration to be given to views from major west (Barambogie land system) intersect the roads and lookouts from within and outside the Ordovician sedimentary structures of the park. Care must be taken to ensure Mount Stanley Range (Bowman land system) developments at key visitor sites have no in the south-east. Small areas of Quaternary adverse impacts on the visual integrity of the alluvial plains and terraces are associated with area. the Beechworth township. The age of the region’s visible geology is illustrated by the Aim presence of the Wooragee glacial formations 10 km to the north-west. • Protect the natural and heritage landscape, particularly places of high scenic quality The Gorge unit contains most of the important or traditional significance. landform features, including distinctive granite tors, cascading waterfalls and gem sites. Management strategies Throughout the park, diverted streamlines, loose sedimentary deposits, and steep sluiced • Identify and protect important landscape walls allow constant erosion and deposition. features, particularly those that can be seen from viewing sites, the town of Beechworth and major travel routes. Aim • Identify and protect geological values, particularly those of high significance.

Beechworth Historic Park 15 Strategies for natural values conservation

Management strategies Water Supply Catchment applies to the section • Encourage further research and of catchment encompassed by the park (figure understanding of the park’s geological 2). values. The park consists of many reserved fragments • Educate visitors on the value of the park’s focused around the creeks they follow, Spring geological features through the provision Creek being the most visited in the scenic of information where appropriate (section Gorge block. Other creeks passing through the 6.1). park include Sheep Station Creek, La Serena Creek, Green Wattle Creek, Silver Creek, 5.3 Soil conservation Deep Creek, Hurdle Creek, Two Mile Creek, Three Mile Creek and Six Mile Creek. Soils of the park, particularly those derived from Devonian granites, are susceptible to The park has a history of significant sheet, rill, tunnel and gully erosion. Past disturbance. Traditional quartz mining mining activities involving clearing of native techniques involved the use of mercury in the vegetation and sluicing have left eroded, near- extraction of gold, and while processes vertical slopes particularly in Two Mile, Three included the recovery of mercury, old tailing Mile and Six Mile Creek blocks. Sediment in deposits are considered the probable source of broken slum dams in the bottom of Spring elevated mercury levels in historic gold mining Creek is constantly mobile and being areas (NRE 1998). La Trobe University redeposited downstream. measured levels of mercury in surface water samples in 1998, however the study did not Erosion is also evident within the Gorge locate points of concentration within the park. walking track system. Dry conditions during summer and autumn often leave disturbed Water is discharged directly from the system areas, which are susceptible to erosion from of table and stormwater drains within the wind and water runoff. township of Beechworth into Spring Creek, which carries pollutants and street detritus into Aims the park. To address this issue the NECMA has prepared the Ovens Basin Water Quality • Minimise erosion impacts on water Strategy which deals with a number of issues quality. across the catchment (NECMA 2000). The • Prevent and control erosion on roads, Indigo Shire Council maintains the table drain tracks and disturbed areas. and stormwater system. The Shire also has planning responsibility for Management strategies housing development within the park • Regularly monitor the condition of roads, catchment. While 90% of the township has on- tracks and visitor destinations, and take line sewers, some recent developments have appropriate action to minimise erosion been approved on the basis of utilisation of (tables 4, 5 and 6). septic systems. • Rehabilitate eroded sites in areas of high visitor use and soil susceptibility. Aim • Protect and enhance creek and catchment 5.4 Rivers and catchments values. The park lies within the Lower and Mid Ovens Management strategies catchments, within the area of responsibility of the North East Catchment Management • Liaise with NECMA, Indigo Shire Council, Authority (NECMA). The catchments are the Environmental Protection Authority, managed according to the North East Regional North East Region Water Authority, and Catchment Strategy (NECMA 2003). Ten Goulburn Murray Water about hectares of the Kerferd block (figure 2) is part implementation of the Ovens Basin Water of a Special Water Catchment Protection Area Quality Strategy and park activities likely under the Catchment and Land Protection Act to affect water quality (section 8.3). 1994 (Vic.). The Land Use Designation –

16 Beechworth Historic Park Strategies for natural values conservation

• Ensure seasonal closure of roads in the be growing close to visitor nodes. The Gorge Land Use Designation – Water Supply block contains the majority of threatened Catchment (table 1 and figure 2) to protect species found within the park, 75% of which water quality. are represented at One Tree Hill, a popular visitor destination. Ingrams Rock is also an • Liaise with Indigo Shire Council to ensure important site for particularly sensitive flora minimal impacts from stormwater, species. drainage and sewage on park values. High fragmentation and proximity to the town • Where appropriate liaise with NECMA on mean weed cover is generally high within aspects of park management with the some sections of the park (section 5.8). This potential to impact catchment health, has inhibited recruitment of understorey including minimisation of disturbance to indigenous species in most EVCs, particularly catchments and streams from park works. in the valleys and foothills. Past tree clearing practices have resulted in a loss of large old 5.5 Vegetation trees however, mid-storey species such as The park lies within the Northern Inland wattles and younger Black Cypress-pine and Slopes and Highlands – Northern Fall eucalypts maintain a good canopy cover. Bioregions and contains a range of vegetation The North East Victoria Comprehensive communities. Eight Ecological Vegetation Regional Assessment (Environment Australia Classes (EVCs) are represented, including 1998) found endemic and disjunct species, a Grassy Dry Forest, Shrubby Dry Forest, Herb- concentration of species at the edge of their rich Foothill Forest, Granitic Hills Woodland range and a strong concentration of rare flora and Valley Grassy Forest, an endangered in the Beechworth area. The park helps to community within Victoria (DSE 2005b). protect these values and contributes Twelve flora species considered rare or significantly to the protection of flora values in threatened in Victoria have been recorded in the region. the park (appendix 4). Aims The park protects 10% of the State’s records for Yellow Hyacinth-orchid, an endangered • Manage ecosystems to ensure the flora species. Warby Swamp Gum, a nationally preservation and protection of indigenous threatened species is also protected in the park. flora and vegetation communities, Both species have Action Statements under the particularly significant species and Flora and Fauna Guarantee (FFG) Act. Yellow threatened communities. Hyacinth-orchid is particularly under threat • Encourage scientific investigation relating from wallaby and rabbit browsing (section to the conservation of significant species 5.8). Three other threatened species occurring and communities, particularly those in the park are also listed under the Act: largely under-studied. Dookie Daisy, Granite (Beechworth) Rustyhood and Small Quillwort. Beechworth Management strategies Silver Stringybark, a rare species, is considered a high priority species as it is • Develop a flora monitoring program and endemic to the area (Parks Victoria 2005b). establish and implement priority actions in accordance with Parks Victoria’s A survey conducted at One Tree Hill in 2005 Environmental Management Program. found 23 bryophytes present. More species are likely to be present in other parts of the park in • Implement priority actions from approved particular the riparian habitats (Meagher Action Statements or Recovery Plans to 2005). address threats to threatened species or communities listed under the FFG and Known sites of threatened species are included EPBC Acts in conjunction with DSE, in the Special Protection Area – Natural including: Values (table 1 and figure 2). y monitoring the health and extent of Visitor impacts must also be managed to Yellow Hyacinth-orchid populations protect stands of threatened species which can

Beechworth Historic Park 17 Strategies for natural values conservation

through monitoring of flowering and recovery plan, Beechworth Historic Park has pod production and establishment of been nominated as one of 40 priority sites permanent photographic points across the state for the species’ recovery. Monitoring of Brush-tailed Phascogales and y protecting Yellow Hyacinth–orchid foxes is conducted in partnership with DSE. populations from damage by native Management of this species will assist in the herbivores through guards and / or conservation of other dry forest and woodland fencing and implementing rabbit and dependent species such as the Regent weed control programs Honeyeater and Turquoise Parrot (NRE y ensuring populations of Warby Swamp 1997b) and other arboreal mammals whose Gum are protected from wildfire, numbers have also declined due to a reduction unintentional burning and changed in suitable habitat, caused by clearing hydrological conditions. primarily for agriculture. The park also • Encourage park staff to train and supports 11 species of birds associated with the participate in field identification and FFG listed Victorian Temperate-woodland ecological monitoring of threatened Bird Community (appendix 5). species. Another hollow-dependent species, the Barking Owl, is the most threatened owl in • Manage visitor activities to minimise Victoria and suffered significant decline in the impacts on threatened flora and vegetation area due to the loss of habitat and prey base communities, particularly at One Tree Hill resulting from years of drought and more and Ingrams Rock. recently the 2003 fires. The territorial nature of • Where appropriate, encourage research to Barking Owls means pairs are unlikely to identify Indigenous knowledge relating to relocate to new areas. Beechworth Historic vegetation and flora, and harvesting Park is home to at least one breeding pair, practices, and reflect knowledge in occupying a site which has been used for over management practices as appropriate. 20 years. This site is close to a management vehicle track and there is concern illegal access • Encourage research into the presence of may disrupt the owls. The Beechworth owls bryophytes, fungi, lichens and algae and are an important source of offspring for their functioning and significance within recolonisation to the area affected by the the park. extensive fires in 2003 (N. Schedvin pers. 5.6 Fauna comm. 2005). Eleven fauna species considered threatened in Four amphibians and 11 reptiles, including the Victoria, including seven listed under the Flora near threatened Bandy Bandy are also recorded and Fauna Guarantee Act (Brush-tailed in the park. There are no current park records Phascogale, Bandy Bandy, Turquoise Parrot, for invertebrates. Barking Owl, Regent Honeyeater, Speckled Loss of coarse woody debris from Victorian Warbler, Diamond Firetail) are recorded in the native forests and woodlands is recognised as a park (appendix 5). The range of species threatening process under the FFG Act. highlights the park’s diverse faunal values, Retention of fallen timber on the ground is while their threatened status highlights the critical for the protection of woodland bird importance of the park to their protection. community species (appendix 5), small Known significant fauna sites are included ground-foraging mammals and reptiles, within a Special Protection Area – Natural currently recorded in low numbers in the park. (table 1 and figure 2). Aims An FFG Action Statement and a Recovery • Manage ecosystems to ensure the Plan have been developed for the Brush-tailed preservation and protection of indigenous Phascogale, a species particularly susceptible fauna, particularly significant species. to predation by foxes (section 5.8), and restricted in its range due to loss of habitat including large old trees. As part of the

18 Beechworth Historic Park Strategies for natural values conservation

• Improve knowledge of significant fauna effects of wildfire and inappropriate fire and threatening processes to improve regimes. management, protection and appreciation. Fire protection measures on adjacent freehold land are outlined in the Indigo Shire Municipal Management strategies Fire Prevention Strategy (Indigo Shire Council • Implement priority actions from approved 1999a). FFG Action Statements and recovery plans in conjunction with DSE, including Parks Victoria and DSE maintain fire-fighting participation in the Phascogale recovery resources at Beechworth, Wodonga and program. Wangaratta. DSE maintains fire lookout towers at Mount Pilot and Mount Stanley. • Monitor continuing nest occupation of The use of fire for ecological management is identified populations of Barking Owls. an established principle, and where appropriate • Enable Parks Victoria staff to participate may be undertaken for the enhancement of in training to facilitate field identification ecological values (DSE 2004b). and ecological monitoring of threatened Fuel reduction burning is currently undertaken species. to protect specific assets, primarily the town of • Promote the further development of Action Beechworth and high-value pine plantations, in Statements for all FFG species within the accordance with the North East Region Fire park. Protection Plan (DSE 2003b). • Encourage research to improve knowledge Burning zones include: on the importance and function of • Zone 2—Spring Creek in the Gorge block invertebrates in the park environment. for township protection • Where appropriate, encourage research to • Zone 3—most other areas. identify Indigenous knowledge relating to fauna, and reflect knowledge in In January 2003, a fire known as the Stanley management practices as appropriate. fire burnt approximately 5% (51 ha) of the park in the Silver Creek block. This fire was • Enhance existing habitat for ground part of a series of wildfires spread throughout foraging mammals and reptiles by the Alpine region, collectively burning over prohibiting the collection of fallen timber one million hectares. The Statewide Public from within the park. Land Ecological and Cultural Fire Recovery • Undertake measures to reduce the risk of Plan (Parks Victoria 2003b) has been illegal access disturbing the breeding of developed to address the recovery of the fire- Barking Owls in the park (section 6.2). affected areas.

5.7 Fire management Aims The National Parks Act requires the Secretary • Protect park values from the deleterious to ensure that appropriate and sufficient effects of wildfire or inappropriate fire measures are taken to protect parks from injury regimes. by fire. Current fire protection measures for • Cooperate with relevant agencies and land the park are carried out in accordance with the managers in the protection of human life, North East Region Fire Protection Plan (DSE neighbouring properties and assets. 2003b), the Code of Practice for Fire Management on Public Land (DSE 2006) and • Implement fire regimes appropriate to the Parks Victoria’s operational policies. conservation and management of native flora and fauna. The Code of Practice requires that fire management activities ensure that Management strategies environmental values, including the vigour and diversity of the State’s indigenous flora, are • Undertake fuel reduction burning in protected, as far as practical, from the harmful accordance with the North East Region Fire Protection Plan (DSE 2003b).

Beechworth Historic Park 19 Strategies for natural values conservation

• Ensure water points and management FFG species, are new or emerging, threaten tracks (table 4 and figure 3) are significant values, disturb streamsides or maintained in a condition suitable for appear on park boundaries. These infestations access by fire-fighting units. often provide harbour for pest animals. • Maintain close and effective liaison with Control strategies for pest plants and animals DSE, the Country Fire Authority (CFA), in the region have been proposed with due Indigo Shire Council, and park neighbours consideration to priorities set by the North East with regard to hazard management and Catchment Management Authority, and fire preparedness. management strategies will be developed with the objective of maintaining ecosystem • Encourage use of liquid or gas fuel integrity and improving biodiversity. cooking appliances by visitors in picnic areas. North East Catchment Management Authority priorities include Paterson’s Curse, • Review current fuel-reduction burning Blackberry, St. John’s Wort, Broom and zones during the North East Region Fire Gorse, all of which exist in the park. Emerging Protection Plan Review. environmental weeds of most concern are • In conjunction with DSE, develop a Bridal Creeper and Himalayan Honeysuckle. A management regime for fires in the park draft Beechworth Historic Park Weed that meets fire protection and ecological Management Strategy was prepared in 1996 requirements in accordance with Parks (CNR 1996). Victoria’s operational policies. Weed management works are heavily focused • Ensure implementation of the Code of along streamsides. Rabbits are concentrated in Practice for Fire Management on Public granitic soils and heavily weed infested Land to provide protection of park values streamsides, where they inhibit growth and from mechanical damage, weed spread regeneration of the FFG-listed Yellow and disease during protection burning, Hyacinth-orchid, compete with native grazers ecological burning and wildfire for fodder and affect neighbouring farming suppression. properties. Rabbit numbers are not increasing at present. The long-term combined influence • Identify fire-sensitive historic relics and of rabbit calicivirus disease (RCD) and cultural landscapes that may be damaged myxomatosis on the local population is by fire or fire suppression activities unpredictable. (section 4.2). The urban – rural interface of the park poses • Following wildfire, ensure a Fire particular problems for the control of rabbits, Rehabilitation Plan is prepared and foxes and cats due to high food sources, implemented, and fire breaks are closed restrictions on control techniques due to and rehabilitated in accordance with the proximity to urban areas, close harbour and Code of Practice. high repopulation sources. Threatened species, • Encourage research into Indigenous including the Brush-tail Phascogale and Bandy knowledge relating to use of fire, in Bandy, are vulnerable to predation by foxes. cooperation with the relevant Registered Roaming dogs, stock and feral bee populations Aboriginal Party. Reflect Indigenous are occasionally found in the park. knowledge in education and management The Wooragee Landcare Group and the newly programs as appropriate. formed Beechworth Landcare Group are active in the immediate Beechworth district, and 5.8 Pest plants and animals close liaison is maintained with these groups. The park contains no known State or The community is becoming increasingly regionally prohibited pest plants, but is subject aware of the problem created for wildlife by to heavy infestations of 14 Regional Priority cats, both unowned and owned but pest plants and 11 major environmental weeds inappropriately managed. Cats are prohibited (appendix 6). Pest plant infestations of greatest in parks under the National Parks (Parks) concern are those that directly compete with Regulations 2003. The Domestic (Feral and

20 Beechworth Historic Park Strategies for natural values conservation

Nuisance) Animals Act 1994 (Vic.) provides y priority control of new and emerging the legislative framework for management of species, particularly those with highly cats. invasive characteristics and potential to impact park values Aims y eradication of new or existing weeds • Control and where possible eradicate pest when infestation numbers are low plants and animals in the park. y effective measurement and monitoring • Develop a catchment-wide perspective of of weed populations and the pest plant and animal management, and effectiveness of control techniques. coordinate actions with local area action plans and strategies. • Develop and implement an integrated approach to pest animal management in • Minimise the impact of control programs accordance with Parks Victoria’s on non-target flora and fauna. Environmental Management Program to deliver: • Protect the park from new infestations of pest plants, animals and diseases. y control of pest animals grazing on vulnerable flora and preying on native • Cooperate with adjacent landholders to fauna control the spread of weeds and pest animals into and from the park. y rabbit control programs at the private property interface in cooperation with Management strategies neighbours • Develop and implement an integrated y cooperative fox control programs approach to pest plant management in y monitoring of feral animal populations accordance with the Parks Victoria and the effectiveness of control Environmental Management Program to techniques. deliver:

y cooperative control programs with • Destroy feral bee colonies within the park. neighbours on priority weeds • Develop a plan to manage exotic species y weed control measures to protect identified as having cultural or historic vegetation communities with high flora significance. values at risk from weeds • Work with Indigo Shire Council on the y control of weed communities that promotion of responsible pet ownership to harbour rabbits address the presence of cats in the park. y weed control on sites with high cultural and heritage values

Beechworth Historic Park 21

6 STRATEGIES FOR VISITORS

and information services of the park with those 6.1 Information, interpretation and in the town of Beechworth would further education promote the park’s important role in the Providing information, interpretation and region’s heritage and nature-based tourism education can help orientate and inform attractions, and increase the opportunity for visitors, foster an understanding and higher visitation. appreciation of the park’s special natural and Park visitor information is currently provided cultural values, build understanding of by a Park Note. A general information board is management activities and help visitors to provided at the Powder Magazine (Gorge) experience, understand and appreciate the park managed by Indigo Shire Council, and fixed in a safe and appropriate manner. Parks orientation maps are provided at the heads of Victoria delivers information, interpretation most walking trails. Park information is and education to visitors by various means, provided at the Gorge picnic site. Signage including its website, ranger patrols, Park within the park is generally well located, but Notes, signage, tourism brochures and other varies in condition. Parks Victoria’s website publications, displays, and licensed tour and the Parks Victoria Information Centre also operators. These services may be developed provide detailed pre-visit information. and provided in collaboration with other agencies. Parks Victoria’s office, located at the La Trobe University Beechworth Campus, provides very Although many of Victoria’s parks and limited opportunity for interaction and reserves play an integral role in the delivery of promotion to passing visitors. nature based tourism, the Box-Ironbark parks are unlikely to become a key destination The Parks Victoria education program offers themselves. However, there is potential for Curriculum Standards Framework (CSF) based Beechworth Historic Park to become a education units for primary and secondary valuable complementary product to existing students. In addition, Parks Victoria and DSE regional tourism products. have prepared a Box-Ironbark education kit for use in schools. Beechworth Historic Park lies within one of several regions within Victoria subject to some Aims of the greatest gold rushes of the 19th century. The park’s distinctive and accessible gold • Orientate visitors and the local community mining sites present excellent opportunities for to the park’s history, features and values interpreting, educating and informing the via Park Notes and signage. public about its heritage values and • Encourage visitors’ discovery, enjoyment management. and appreciation of the park’s natural and The park lies within Tourism Victoria’s High cultural values, and support for park Country region, supported by the North East management. Regional Tourism Development Plan which promotes Beechworth as one of Victoria’s Management strategies best-preserved gold rush towns. Although • Promote and market the recreational, mentioning a visit to the nearby park, Tourism cultural and natural heritage values of the Victoria’s main focus is on the heritage park via an integrated strategy developed precinct of the town. with the Indigo Shire Council (section 8.3). The park’s distinctive and accessible gold • Develop and maintain interpretive mining sites present excellent opportunities for facilities listed in table 3. interpreting, educating and informing the public about the heritage values remaining from the gold era. Integration of the recreation

22 Beechworth Historic Park Strategies for visitors

TABLE 3 INTERPRETATION THEMES AND FACILITIES

AREA THEME SITES FACILITIES

Whole of park Association of gold mining Beechworth Visitor Interpretive display governance with park Information Centre (Indigo Park Note heritage values Shire Council) Kerferd Block Mining techniques Hurdle Creek flumes, Interpretive walk connected to Spring tunnels, ruins, dredge, Creek and Woolshed Falls (Chiltern

dams, shafts, Chinese camp Mt–Pilot National Park) Spring Creek Role of water Fletchers tailrace, Interpretive walk connected to Chevaliers Mill, Kerferd and Woolshed Falls (Chiltern Rocky Mountain Tunnel, Mt–Pilot National Park) Cascades Gorge Quarries Links to Beechworth Fiddes Quarry Interpretive panel Traditional techniques Fiddes Quarry Gorge Scenic Landscape, vegetation, flora Scenic drive Park Note Drive Gorge Walk Regional landscape Precipice lookout, One Tree Park Note Tracks vegetation, fauna Hill

• Ensure park orientation and information: • Continue to allow sustainable educational use by school and community groups. y interprets the values and features of Ensure school and formal interpretive the park and its place in the mining groups adopt the Minimal Impact heritage of the area Guidelines. y informs park users about public safety • Regularly evaluate information and y provides guidelines for appropriate interpretive programs related to the park. behaviour and activity y generates links to the town of 6.2 Access Beechworth, particularly through The park is bisected by several arterial roads signage and a number of Indigo Shire Council roads y generates links to other parks in the providing access to the park. The Gorge Scenic district, and to touring routes Drive is the primary entrance point to the park for visitors. The existing road and track y is appropriate in form and content for network includes roads suitable for all-season the range of visitors to the park, in 2WD touring (table 4). particular children, the elderly, and people with limited mobility. Some tracks are steep and rugged and unsuitable for all-season access or are in • Work with Indigo Shire, Tourism protected water catchments. These tracks are Campaign Committee and other relevant classified as management vehicle (MV) tracks. groups to coordinate provision of Management vehicle roads and tracks will be orientation and interpretation information. available for use by horse riders, walkers and • Encourage visitors to adopt minimum non-motorised bicycles. Scenic driving along impact techniques and to adhere to codes the Gorge Scenic Drive is a popular visitor of conduct appropriate to their activity. activity. The five kilometre, mostly bitumen road is a one-way route supported by • Ensure the regular update of information information in a Park Note. maintained on the Parks Victoria website and at the Parks Victoria Information Centre.

Beechworth Historic Park 23 Strategies for visitors

TABLE 4 MANAGEMENT OF VEHICULAR ROADS AND TRACKS

ROAD/TRACK CURRENT PLANNED CURRENT AND ACTIONS / COMMENTS CLASSIFI’N CLASSIF’N PLANNED USE

Collins Track 5D 5D M4 Maintain drainage. PV Road for visitor and management access and fire. Dixons Track 5D 5D M4 Maintain drainage. PV Road for visitor or management access and fire. Fiddes Track 5E 5E MV PV Road for management access and fire. Gorge Road 5B 5B M2 Complete surfacing and maintain drainage. One (Gorge Scenic way scenic drive with five tonne load limit Drive) bridge. Access to inlier freehold. PV Road for park and other access Graveyard Creek 5E 5E M2 to MV Restrict access to management vehicles. PV Track Road for management access and fire. Gum Ridge Track 5D 5D MV Maintain drainage. PV Road for management access and fire. Kerferd Track 5D 5D M4 Maintain drainage. PV Road for visitor and management access and fire. Middle Track 5D 5D M2 Maintain drainage. PV Road for visitor and management access and fire. One Tree Hill 5C 5D M2 Maintain drainage. PV Road for visitor or Road management access and fire. One Tree Track 5C 5C MV PV Road management access and fire. Otts Track 5E 5E M2 to MV Restrict access to management vehicles. PV Road for management access and fire. Pine Track 5E 5E MV PV Road for management access and fire. Pipeline Track 5D 5D M2 Maintain drainage. PV Road for park and management access. Ponds Track 5E 5E MV PV Road for management access and fire. Red Hill Road 5C 5C M2 Park access and fire. Maintain drainage. PV Road for visitor and management access. Robinson Track 5E 5E M2 to MV Restrict access to management vehicles. PV Road for management access and fire.

Key: Parks Victoria Road classification: Use: 5A Primary Road — all weather, two-laned, mainly sealed road. M2 Visitors in 2WD and 4WD motor vehicles 5B Secondary Road — all weather, two-laned formed and M4 Visitors in 4WD motor vehicles gravelled, or single lane sealed with gravel shoulders. 5C Minor Road — Single lane unsealed, formed road usually MV Management vehicles lightly gravelled. Note: 5D Access Track — Single lane, dry weather formed (from natural materials). Bicycles, walkers and horses are permitted on all vehicular roads and tracks. 5E Rough Track — Single lane, unformed earth track at or near the natural surface. Roads managed by Shire and other authorities that run through the park are not included in the table.

24 Beechworth Historic Park Strategies for visitors

The drive provides panoramic views of the Visitor satisfaction surveys (Parks Victoria surrounding countryside as well as views of 1999b) reinforced the need to improve existing granite tors, wildflowers, waterfalls, and facilities in the park. Low satisfaction levels mining landscapes. The narrow winding road were expressed about the provision of picnic is not suitable for large touring coaches. The facilities in the Gorge. bridge crossing Spring Creek is subject to a five tonne load limit. Aims • Establish and maintain day visitor facilities Aims that enhance visitor enjoyment in a healthy • Provide and maintain access for visitor and safe environment. enjoyment and management purposes. • Provide an appropriate and sustainable • Minimise the effect of the road network on level of service for a broad range of cultural and natural values of the park, visitors to the park. including designated catchments. Management strategies Management strategies • Provide visitor facilities as described in • Maintain vehicle roads and tracks in table 5. accordance with table 4 and figure 3. • Review and upgrade Gorge Scenic Drive • Complete bitumen surfacing of the Gorge signage and associated roadside car Scenic Drive. parking to reduce inappropriate car parking on granite outcrops. • Ensure emergency agencies are aware of the bridge load limit over Spring Creek on • Remove inappropriate facilities at the the Gorge Scenic Drive. Spring Creek Bridge and the old gravel pit. • Ensure signposting to key nodes, particularly from major roads and the • Continue to monitor visitor satisfaction town of Beechworth, are installed and levels in relation to facilities provided. maintained. 6.4 Camping • Install gates on management vehicle tracks to prevent illegal access to high value There are no camp grounds within the park, areas (figure 3). and camping is not permitted due to the close proximity of the park to Beechworth township 6.3 Day visitors and the park’s role as a water supply catchment. Beechworth township offers ample The Gorge Scenic Drive is the key visitor camping at two caravan parks and provides attraction in Beechworth Historic Park. many motel and hotel beds for overnight stays. Along the drive there are a number of minor Opportunities for camping are also provided in carparks as it winds around the gorge. Basic the adjoining Chiltern–Mt Pilot National Park. picnic facilities are provided at the Spring Creek Bridge and the old gravel pit on Shire- Aim owned freehold land. Inappropriate car parking • Provide information to park visitors on on granite outcrops is common. Current gorge appropriate opportunities for camping. facilities that directly abut the road are of concern for visitor safety due to the proximity Management strategy to passing vehicles. The Gorge Scenic Drive intersects the Gorge Walking Track network at • Provide information in interpretation and a number of places and is often used to access promotion articles on alternative camping this facility. opportunities in the region.

Beechworth Historic Park 25 Strategies for visitors

TABLE 5 EXISTING AND PLANNED VISITOR FACILITIES

SITE CURRENT PLANNED TOILET PICNIC FIRE CAR ACCESS LOOK PARK INFO/ LOS LOS TABLE PLACE PARK FROM DRIVE OUT SIGNAGE ROUTE

Spring Creek Bridge B VB - E - R E - - Gravel Pit site - - - R R R E - - Gorge Scenic Drive M M - - - U - - U Newtown Falls - - - - - E E E - One Tree Hill VB VB - - - E - - - Precipice Lookout B B - - - - - E - Powder Magazine * N/A N/A - E - E E - E

Key: LOS Levels of service: Facilities: M - Mid – moderate levels of visitor facilities and amenities provided E existing facility B - Basic- limited visitor facilities and amenities provided U upgrade existing facility VB – Very Basic- offer very basic level of service and basic access only P provide facility N/A not applicable R remove facility * located outside the park, facilities managed in partnership with the Shire N no facility

The Prospectors and Miners Association of 6.5 Prospecting Victoria (PMAV) in partnership with the Prospecting activities demonstrate a strong link Victorian Government has developed a Code to the park’s association with the history of of Conduct, which sets out guidelines for safe gold discovery (section 4.2). prospecting and methods to minimise the Parks Victoria seeks to manage prospecting in impacts of prospecting on park values. cooperation with prospecting clubs and organisations in a manner that protects the Aim natural and cultural values of the park. • Provide opportunities for prospecting consistent with the protection of cultural Prospecting is permitted under section 32D of and environmental values. the National Parks Act in the Two Mile, Three Mile and Six Mile Creek blocks of the park Management strategies (figure 2). A Miner’s Right or a current Tourist Fossicking Authority (TFA) is required. These • Allow prospecting in the park in areas authorisations restrict any prospecting to the shown in figure 2 as areas permitting use of non-mechanical hand tools, which may prospecting and in accordance with the include a pick, a shovel, a panning dish, a Code of Conduct developed by the PMAV. sluice box, a portable cradle and a metal • In conjunction with PMAV, monitor detector. Prospecting does not permit the prospecting activities regularly and disturbance of historical objects or relics. address any environmental consequences. These are protected by the Heritage Act 1995 (Vic.). • Liaise with the Minerals and Petroleum Division of the Department of Primary Prospecting is also permitted in designated Industries on all Miner’s Right matters. areas of nearby Nine Mile Creek Historic Area and Chiltern Mt–Pilot National Park.

26 Beechworth Historic Park Strategies for visitors

6.6 Walking vehicle (MV) tracks (figure 3). Horse camping is not permitted in the park. A feature of the park is the variety of walking tracks which provide various grades of walking (table 6 and figure 3). The Gorge Aim block is the key destination for walking, with a • Provide opportunities for horse riding network of 12 km of tracks leading to many where appropriate, while minimising points of interest. A five km walking track impacts on park values and other users. connects Lake Sambell in the township of Beechworth to Lake Kerferd in the Kerferd Management strategies block of the park. Roads, particularly the • Permit horse riding on vehicular roads Gorge Scenic Drive, and management vehicle and tracks including MV tracks as shown tracks are also used regularly by walkers. in table 4 and figure 3. The proximity of the park to the Beechworth • Encourage adoption of the ‘Horse Riding township provides opportunities for visitors to Code’ (Parks Victoria 2006). access the park’s walking tracks for day visits. Walks beginning from the Powder Magazine 6.8 Cycling and mountain bike riding provide links to One Tree Hill, Spring Creek Bridge and The Cascades. The tracks also The park is easily accessed by bicycle from the provide links to attractions adjacent to the park Beechworth township. Cycling is permitted on including Woolshed Falls in Chiltern-Mt Pilot all formed roads and vehicle tracks open to the National Park, and a range of heritage public as well as those restricted to attractions that form part of the Beechworth management vehicles (table 4). In the past, Historic and Cultural Precinct. cyclists have used walking tracks in an inappropriate manner, leading to conflict with A Park Note provides walkers with other park users. Cycling is not permitted on information on sites of interest along the main walking tracks in the park. Some walking tracks in the park. environmental degradation has occurred from development of unauthorised tracks. Aim Mountain bike events and access will only be • Provide a range of walking opportunities permitted in the park where there is no while minimising impacts on the park’s significant threat to natural and cultural values values. or conflict with other park users. A strategy to guide the management and access of mountain Management strategies bikes will be developed in conjunction with • Maintain walking tracks, signposting and DSE, local municipalities, Tourism Victoria information to provide a safe environment and local mountain bike riding groups. to walkers consistent with the Australian The ‘Mountain Bike Code’ sets out guidelines Standards and Parks Victoria standards, for safe cycling and methods to minimise the as shown in table 6. impacts of bicycle riding on park values (DSE • Provide the public with information on the 2003d). Parks Victoria has a Memorandum of walking track network and its management Cooperation with Mountain Bike Australia at the Beechworth Visitor Information (MTBA) to facilitate partnerships with local Centre, on information boards and groups and provide suitable opportunity and through Park Notes. access for users of the park.

6.7 Horse riding Aim Horse riding is a minor activity in the park as • Provide opportunities for cyclists while its steep and confined nature make most tracks minimising the impact of cycling on park unsuitable. values and other users. Horse riding is permitted on roads and vehicle tracks open to the public and management

Beechworth Historic Park 27 Strategies for visitors

TABLE 6 MANAGEMENT OF WALKING TRACKS

WALKING TRACK SECTION LENGTH CURRENT PLANNED ACTIONS / COMMENTS (KM) GRADE GRADE

Gorge Network Ingrams – One Tree Hill 1.5 3 3 Maintain Ingrams – Fiddes 0.7 3 3 Maintain Fiddes – Precipice 0.5 3 3 Maintain Precipice – Ingrams 0.6 3 3 Maintain Precipice – Spring Creek Bridge 1.0 3 3 Maintain Spring Creek Bridge – Gorge Road 0.8 3 3 Maintain Gorge Rd – One Tree Hill 0.7 3 3 Maintain Gorge Rd – Powder Magazine 0.5 3 3 Maintain Spring Creek Bridge – Woolshed Falls 2.8 3 3 Maintain Kerferd Walk Lake Sambell – Lake Kerferd 5 3 3 Maintain

Key: Australian Standards Classification for walking tracks (AS 2156.1—2001) Grade 1 For a large number of visitors, including those with reduced mobility, with frequent encounters and high levels of interpretation and facilities. Grade 2 For a large number of visitors to walk easily in a natural environment with frequent encounters and a moderate to high level of interpretation and facilities. Grade 3 For visitors to walk in slightly disturbed natural environments, requiring moderate levels of fitness with occasional encounters and perhaps signage—interpretation and facilities are not common. Grade 4 For visitors to explore and discover relatively undisturbed natural environments along defined and distinct tracks with few encounters and no interpretive signage. Grade 5 For visitors with advanced outdoor knowledge and skills to find their way along often-indistinct trails to remote locations with frequent opportunities for solitude and few encounters. Grade 6 For highly experienced walkers to explore remote and challenging natural areas without reliance on managed tracks and with extended periods of solitude and few encounters.

development of a mountain bike access Management strategies strategy for Beechworth Historic Park and • Permit cycling on vehicular roads and surrounding region. tracks, including management vehicle tracks, as shown in table 4 and figure 3. • Manage the encroachment of informal tracks from adjacent land, in particular • Allow for competitive cycling events in the Green Wattle block, in conjunction accordance with Parks Victoria’s with DSE. Monitor the impacts in this area guidelines, but not off-road riding or BMX and where necessary take action to events. minimise the threats to park values. • Liaise with Mountain Bike Australia • Liaise with MTBA as per conditions of the (MTBA) and the Beechworth Chain Gang Memorandum of Cooperation with Parks (section 7.4) to promote minimal-impact Victoria. riding techniques through their website and riding networks. • Promote the ‘Mountain Biking Code’ (DSE 2003d), integrate minimal-impact • Coordinate with DSE, local municipalities, messages into park information and Tourism Victoria and local groups in

28 Beechworth Historic Park Strategies for visitors

interpretation, and encourage bike riders control and restrained from causing annoyance to adhere to the code. to people and wildlife or damage to property. The walking of dogs by residents is a popular 6.9 Orienteering and rogaining pastime, particularly in the Gorge block due to The park provides limited scope for its accessibility to residential areas. Dogs are orienteering and rogaining events due to its permitted on leash on roads and tracks within disjointed, narrow and steep nature; however it the park. Dogs must remain on leash and under is occasionally used for events. Mine shafts control while in day use areas. Native fauna is associated with the landscape can pose a safety at risk from predation from unsupervised risk to cross-country walkers. Event organisers domestic dogs, with normal foraging patterns should be made aware of the hazards affected by dog scent, faeces and noise. Dog associated with the landscape. droppings are also a potential source of Events are permitted in the park subject to pollution and can reduce the amenity of visitor approval of an application, outlining sites. marshalling points, size of event and other Dog owners are encouraged to be responsible relevant logistical arrangements. In general, and immediately collect their dog’s droppings events with more than 50 competitors will be and remove them from the park at the end of encouraged to take place in the adjacent State their visit. This limits the impacts of this forest or Chiltern-Mt Pilot National Park. activity on park values and other visitor’s Seasonal restrictions will apply and enjoyment of the park. applications assessed in accordance with current conditions of the park so as not to Aim impact on natural values. • Permit dogs where consistent with the protection of native fauna and visitor Aim experiences. • Provide for small-scale orienteering and rogaining events where appropriate, that Management strategies will not result in unacceptable impacts. • Allow dogs, on a leash, on formed roads and tracks (tables 4 and 6) and in day use Management strategies areas (table 5) within the park. • Permit orienteering and rogaining in accordance with table 2 and figure 2, and • Promote and encourage responsible dog Parks Victoria’s permit and guidelines, walking practices through park while minimising the impact on park information (section 6.1). values. 6.11 Rock climbing and abseiling • Work with event organisers to identify and The granitic outcrops of Beechworth’s protect sensitive values or features in landscape make it suitable for basic-level rock proposed event areas. climbing and abseiling and the park attracts • Apply a set of standard conditions for commercial operators and the occasional events with provision for additional school group. special conditions to address individual The activity is conducted in areas of the park situations. mostly accessed along the Gorge Road. The level of use is generally low, and at present not 6.10 Dog walking causing adverse impacts on park values. A Dogs are considered incompatible with the number of threatened flora species are located aims and objectives of areas managed under close to where the activity occurs and may be the National Parks Act, and are generally placed at risk should the activity increase. prohibited from these areas. However, a number of parks have areas set aside to allow dog walking, provided dogs are leashed, under

Beechworth Historic Park 29 Strategies for visitors

Aim Adventure Activity Standards and Minimal • Provide opportunities for rock climbing Impact Guidelines. and abseiling while minimising the impact • Encourage licensed tour operators to on park values and other users. develop and deliver guided tours that enhance the park experience of visitors. Management strategies Conduct familiarisation sessions with • Permit rock climbing and abseiling while operators (section 6.1). minimising the impact on park values. • Liaise with State and local tourism bodies • Monitor the impacts from rock climbing to encourage a coordinated approach in and abseiling on natural values, developing and managing regional particularly threatened flora, and manage tourism opportunities and to ensure as required. appropriate tourism promotion of cultural heritage. • Liaise with schools and licensed tour operators on sensitive use of the area. • Continue to work with licensed tour operators to facilitate the delivery of 6.12 Tourism services appropriate messages relating to park values and their protection and to Licensed tour operators play a key role in minimise potential impacts on park values nature based tourism in Victoria by offering and other park users. guided park tours and supported recreation activities, and information that promotes park 6.13 Public safety values and appropriate use. The experience of exploring natural areas and Several active recreation and nature-based past mining areas presents inherent risks to licensed tour operators currently provide visitors due to the presence of shafts, steep guided activities in the park. Historical sites slopes and hazardous mining by-products. and landscapes have potential for promotion Built access is provided to facilitate safe access by coach and guided tours, especially when and visitors are encouraged to keep to combined with the features of the Beechworth designated walking tracks. A number of township. locations have been excluded from public Activities which can be undertaken as part of access for visitor safety and are subject to an organised tour include birdwatching, Special Management Area – Public Safety bushwalking, prospecting, sightseeing and zoning (section 3.2 and figure 2). cycling tours. Walkers, horse riders, cyclists and other Adventure Activity Standards and Minimal vehicles share roads and vehicle tracks. Impact Guidelines have been developed by Vehicles, horses and bicycles travelling at Sport and Recreation Victoria (SRV), excessive speed or out of control may pose a Department of Sustainability and Environment risk to other users. Codes of Practice and park (DSE), Parks Victoria (PV) and Tourism regulations have been developed to assist in Victoria (TV) to guide tour operators using the providing a safe recreational environment. park (Outdoor Recreation Centre 2006). Parks Victoria is not the lead agency for most emergency response situations, but provides a Aim support role for emergency incidents where • Provide opportunities and encourage required. provision of external tourism services while minimising impacts on natural and Relevant agencies respond to incidents within cultural values of the park. the park in accordance with the Indigo Shire Municipal Emergency Response Plan. Parks Management strategies Victoria’s response to emergency incidents during normal operating activities within the • Ensure all tour operators using the park park is guided by the Beechworth Ranger in are licensed and promote awareness of Charge (RIC) Area Emergency Management Plan (Parks Victoria 2005c).

30 Beechworth Historic Park Strategies for visitors

Aims • Encourage visitors to seek information on • Promote visitor safety and awareness of activities they intend to undertake in the safety issues and risks within the park park. associated with access and use. • Install and maintain regulatory signage to • Promote and observe safe practices, and advise the public of Special Management cooperate with emergency services. Areas for public safety. • Include information on the dangers of Management strategies mine shafts, adits and tunnels, steep slopes • Increase visitors’ awareness of safety and associated mining hazards on issues and potential hazards in the park information boards and in brochures. through the use of Park Notes, Parks • Cooperate with and support responsible Victoria’s website and information signs. agencies in emergency response and • Monitor, maintain and report, using the ensure that Parks Victoria staff have Parks Victoria asset database, on the adequate levels of training in emergency condition and effectiveness of safety procedures, including incident reporting. barriers, grates, signs and other safety • Provide information on and encourage provisions on a regular basis. visitor behaviour consistent with codes of • Ensure the Beechworth RIC Area practice and park regulations. Emergency Management Plan remains up to date by a regular review.

Beechworth Historic Park 31

7 STRATEGIES FOR AUTHORISED AND ADJACENT USES

7.1 Infrastructure Aims There are a number of uses and activities that • Manage authorised uses in accordance may be permitted in the park, subject to with the National Parks Act and minimise specified conditions to minimise impacts. their impact on cultural and natural values. • Ensure public utility occupations comply Public utilities with legislation. The operation of public utilities in the park is subject to permission from the Secretary to • Protect water quality in the Land Use DSE with conditions to minimise effects on the Designation – Water Catchment. park and visitors. Currently there is an • Provide for appropriate use of water occupation, without consent, by North East resources. Region Water Authority for a sewage pump site and pipelines within the park. A Special Management strategies Management Area – Public Utilities (section • Seek permission from the Secretary to DSE 3.2, figure 2) has been assigned to these for all existing public authority locations. installations and services, including Underground and above-ground conditions to ensure construction, telecommunication cables and powerlines are operation and maintenance are consistent located and maintained along adjoining with protection of the park’s natural and roadside reserves and cross the park to access cultural values and amenity of visitors, freehold property. It is desirable to keep all including North East Region Water cables underground. Above ground powerlines Authority to operate and maintain its are subject to the Code of Practice for Electric facilities within the park. Line Clearance (Vegetation) (Office of the • Liaise with power supply companies to Chief Electrical Inspector 1999). develop an agreement in accordance with Section 27A of the National Parks Act, Water resources with conditions to minimise the impacts on The park’s catchments and waterways are vegetation near power lines. subject to a number of competing demands for water supply, treated water discharge, • Liaise with public authorities to minimise recreation and the maintenance of natural the impacts of cables. flows. Part of the Kerferd block supplies water • Liaise with North East Region Water to the towns of Beechworth. Authority on strategies to maintain water Sedimentation, eutrophication and heavy metal quality. contamination can adversely affect benthic • Review existing Water Extraction Licences (streambed) communities and water quality. A and liaise with Goulburn-Murray Water to study by La Trobe University (Churchill 1998) develop a protocol for the issuing of water identified elevated levels of mercury in surface extraction licences. water near the park (section 5.4). • Remove unauthorised water extraction In the Gorge block an Environmental appliances from the park. Protection Authority (EPA) licensed discharge point for the Beechworth sewage works is • Establish protocols with Goulburn Murray located 300 metres upstream of the popular Water and the EPA in relation to visitor node at Woolshed Falls in neighbouring monitoring of water quality and the Chiltern–Mt Pilot National Park. Throughout provisions of the EPA discharge licence. the park water extraction licences have been issued by Goulburn–Murray Water for stock and domestic purposes.

32 Beechworth Historic Park Strategies for authorised and adjacent uses

7.2 Private occupancies and issue licences, leases or consents, where appropriate. Mining, quarrying and exploration • Remove inappropriate occupations. Mineral exploration licences administered by the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) • Ensure any exploration or mining for occasionally cover areas of the park. minerals or quarrying in the park is Exploration can only occur in the park in subject to the consent of the Minister accordance with a consent granted under under Section 40 of the National Parks section 40 of the National Parks Act. Consents Act. include detailed conditions relating to the • Liaise with Minerals and Petroleum protection of park values. Parks Victoria will Division (DPI) with the aim of minimising ensure that activities are appropriately the impacts of mining works abutting the authorised and that impacts are minimised park on park values. through working with companies and DPI in developing work plans in future explorations • Maintain the park free of apiary sites. and application for consent under the Act. 7.3 Occasional uses A section of the park at Flat Rock block abuts a mining licence that mines feldspar. All research and monitoring planned in a park by external organisations or individuals A number of small abandoned quarries are also requires a research permit under the National within the park. Parks Act, issued by the Department of Sustainability and Environment, available at Apiculture www.dse.vic.gov.au. The park’s small size, disjunct nature, high Parks Victoria recognises the significant role concentration of visitors and close proximity to that the filming and photography industry urban areas provides limited opportunity for plays in the social and economic well-being of the placement of beehives. No permanent or the community, and in providing for these temporary apiary sites are currently provided. activities seeks to ensure protection of the However a number of bee sites are located on natural and cultural values of the planning adjoining lands. area. This is achieved through a permit system for all filming and photography conducted as Illegal occupations part of a trade or a business. Amateur The range of illegal or unauthorised photographers or people taking film or video occupations that occur within the park create for personal or hobby interest do not require a on-going problems for management. These permit. include: No recent applications have been received • grazing occupations continuing after the from the Defence Forces to use land within the expiry of licences park for training purposes. The park is small • occupations, often long standing and military activity may threaten many of its (traditional), that have never been licensed sensitive features. or approved, including service lines and water pipelines. Aim • Manage authorised occasional uses in Aim accordance with the National Parks Act • Manage authorised occupancies and and regulations, and minimise their activities in accordance with the National impacts on park values. Parks Act, and minimise their impacts on park values. Management strategies • Permit events and functions that: Management strategies y have acceptable environmental • Identify and review activities occurring in impacts the park against legislative requirements

Beechworth Historic Park 33 Strategies for authorised and adjacent uses

y do not damage cultural values of the Beechworth Historic Park, and is encroaching park on the park (section 6.8). y do not unduly disturb and Neighbours hold a number of concerns in disadvantage other visitors relation to management of the park, including fire, pest plant and animal management, and y do not unduly increase liability risk impacts on quality of life from visitors, litter exposure and park activities. Where residential y can be appropriately managed with developments adjoin the park, potential available resources. impacts on park values include loss of landscape values, uncontrolled access and • Favour events and functions that provide encroachments. community benefits or complement park values. Land use and development on land surrounding the park is regulated by the Indigo • Manage commercial filming and Shire Council through the local planning photography in accordance with Parks scheme (Indigo Shire Council 1999b). Land Victoria’s operational policies. surrounding the park is predominantly zoned • Permit Defence Force training or field Rural Zone. Other zones that have been navigation exercises in the park in applied include Rural Living Zone, Residential accordance with Parks Victoria’s Zone 1, Low Density Residential Zone, operational policies and relevant permit Environmental Rural Zone and Special Use conditions. Zone 1. The park is also covered by a Heritage Overlay. The purpose of this overlay is to 7.4 Park boundaries and adjacent conserve and enhance significant heritage uses values and ensure that development does not adversely affect these places. Boundaries The park, comprising 10 separate blocks, has a Aims boundary that is sometimes irregular and • Consolidate and rationalise park subject to a number of encroachments (both boundaries. intentional and unknown). Boundary alignments are complicated by the presence of • Cooperate with adjoining landholders and a number of freehold inliers. the Indigo Shire Council to manage boundary and adjacent land use issues. Adjacent uses Management strategies The Indigo Shire Council owns eight hectares of freehold land within the Gorge block which • Identify legal boundaries, particularly at has traditionally been used for park activities. the following key locations: It contains a small picnic area and a portion of y Gorge unit south-west boundary with the Gorge Scenic Drive. township of Beechworth A property, of approximately five hectares, y Kerferd unit west boundary. including a substantial home, is located within the Gorge block abutting the Gorge Scenic • Seek consolidation of practical boundaries Drive. A second freehold inlier adjoins the and removal of unauthorised occupations Gorge Scenic Drive near the Powder Magazine as opportunities arise. (figure 3). • Seek to close contiguous, unused and The Beechworth Chain Gang is an active unformed road reserves that are no longer Mountain Bike Club in Beechworth, and required and add these to the park. conducts many rides utilising both parks and • Negotiate with the Indigo Shire Council other land. A purpose-built Mountain Bike and DSE in relation to the management of Park maintained by the Beechworth Chain the Shire’s freehold land in the Gorge Gang is adjacent to the Green Wattle block of block.

34 Beechworth Historic Park Strategies for authorised and adjacent uses

• Liaise with the Beechworth Chain Gang to • Encourage landholders to maintain fences remove constructed tracks encroaching on along the park boundary. the park to limit any disturbance and to • Liaise with Indigo Shire Council to seek prevent further encroachments. application of appropriate zoning and • Apply and encourage the application of overlays on land surrounding the park, to the Good Neighbour Policy to ensure development and land use changes management issues on or near park are compatible with the protection of park boundaries. values.

Beechworth Historic Park 35

8 STRATEGIES FOR COMMUNITY AWARENESS AND INVOLVEMENT

activities, and formation of a Friends 8.1 Community awareness group. Raising the community’s awareness of the Utilise local press and media to inform the park’s values is an essential step to developing • public of pest plant and animal control its sense of custodianship for the park and programs, fire protection activities, visitor engagement in the area’s management. The service developments and other significant community is more likely to develop a sense of management activities being undertaken. custodianship for the park if its views and values are respected and park-related social • Liaise with council, local community networks are encouraged and supported. A groups and landholders and, as strong connection with the park among visitors appropriate, involve them in relevant and in the local and wider community will aspects of planning and management. assist in broader public education, raising awareness and reaching others in the • Promote community awareness of community. responsible pet ownership and the need to control stock, in collaboration with the Education and interpretation programs (section Indigo Shire Council. 6.1) play an important role in raising the awareness of the park in the wider community. 8.2 Community participation Parks Victoria aims to communicate the The participation of community groups and benefits of a healthy parks system and its individuals in the park’s management is contribution to the health of individuals and pivotal to the effective long-term planning, use society through the ‘Healthy Parks Healthy and care of the park’s values. People’ program. Volunteers and community groups make The community generally has a low level of valuable contributions to park management awareness of the purpose and role of projects. They bring diverse and valuable Beechworth Historic Park. Increased information, knowledge, skills and experience community awareness will help to reduce to the park that may otherwise not be to activities which currently threaten the park’s available to the park’s managers. Volunteers values, including firewood poaching, illegal also bring great enthusiasm and add valuable occupation, littering, unrestrained dogs, and resources to assist with the care of the park. horse and mountain bike riding on walking tracks. The interests of community groups in the park often overlap and may not be complementary. Aims There can be considerable mutual benefits • Increase the community’s awareness and where such groups work together and with understanding of the park’s values and Parks Victoria to achieve common goals. management activities. The Traditional Owners have considerable • Build a sense of shared ownership and interest in and aspirations for the park as part custodianship for the park in community of Country. They are an important potential groups and individuals. source of traditional knowledge about the area that has yet to be documented. A strong working relationship with the relevant Management strategies Registered Aboriginal Party will be essential to • Encourage a better understanding and the Traditional Owners’ views of the park’s appreciation of the park by neighbours planning and management and reconciliation and the Beechworth community through a of their interests and aspirations with those of targeted information program, community other members of the community.

36 Beechworth Historic Park Strategies for community awareness and involvement

Bangerang Cultural Centre Cooperative, projects in the park. Encourage joint Dhurderoa-Waveroo Traditional Owner grants with other groups as appropriate. Group, Mungabareena Aboriginal Corporation • Provide opportunities for, and encourage and Clans have been consulted for and support, tertiary students to undertake their input into this plan. research activities that assist park Assisting students to undertake research management and are consistent with park projects within the park where required as part goals. of their study is also a positive approach to understanding more about the park and its 8.3 Agency partnerships management. Although Parks Victoria is responsible for There are currently no Friends groups and overall management of the park, other agencies limited community activity in the park. A are responsible for planning, managing or Community Reference Group that works with regulating certain activities in the park. Parks Victoria could help ensure that All activities relating to the park that are community awareness is ongoing, a cohesive carried out by Parks Victoria or other agencies plan to involve special interest groups in the need to accord with all legislation and park is developed, and knowledge and government policy and, as far as practicable, understanding of the value of the park is be consistent with agencies’ policies and shared through the wider community. Such a guidelines. To ensure this occurs, park staff group could make a significant contribution to must work closely with staff of relevant the conservation and protection of the natural agencies and collaborate in implementing and cultural values of the park. activities where appropriate. Aims DSE establishes parks, and provides • Encourage neighbours and the wider regulations, strategic direction and policy community to participate in the park’s advice for the management of the park, management where practical. including flora and fauna values and threatening processes, fire management, • Support and encourage community groups statutory planning and catchment protection. and volunteers to actively assist in the The Country Fire Authority (CFA) is a park’s management by participating and volunteer-based community service which contributing their knowledge and skills responds to a variety of fire and emergency incidents. Management strategies North East Catchment Management Authority • Encourage and support the development of is responsible for ensuring the protection and a Beechworth Historic Park Community sustainable development of land, vegetation Reference Group. and water resources within the region, • Encourage volunteer and historical including the preparation of the regional groups’ involvement and actively promote catchment strategy to address the impact of opportunities for community groups to land use and management on the catchment assist Parks Victoria in the park’s (section 5.4). management. North East Region Water Authority and • Work to establish, and strengthen and Goulburn–Murray Water are responsible for maintain relationships with relevant providing retail, urban and rural water Indigenous communities. In particular, customers with water and wastewater services seek to further develop a close inclusive in the park area (section 7.1). working partnership with the Registered The Environment Protection Authority (EPA Aboriginal Party in managing the park. Victoria ) is responsible for coordinating all • Encourage and support groups that use or activities relating to the discharge of waste into have an interest in the park to work the environment (section 7.1). together to pursue sources of funding, Indigo Shire Council administers the planning including Parks Victoria grants, for scheme for land adjacent to the park, including

Beechworth Historic Park 37 Strategies for community awareness and involvement assessing developments that could have an threatening processes and fire impact on park values (Indigo Shire Council management 1999b). Parks Victoria provides input into y North East CMA to reduce the impacts planning applications to ensure that park of land use and management on the park values are protected. The Council has recently and the development of appropriate developed a heritage precinct in the centre of actions in the Regional Catchment Beechworth township by upgrading the Strategies existing Visitor Information Centre and establishing a Cultural and Heritage Centre. y Country Fire Authority and DSE to ensure safety and protection of park Through Aboriginal Affairs Victoria (AAV), values in managing fire within and the Department for Victorian Communities has around the park responsibility for administering legislation protecting cultural heritage (sections 2.5 and y AAV and the relevant Registered 4.1). The Department for Victorian Aboriginal Party on Aboriginal cultural Communities, AAV and the relevant heritage matters and compliance with Registered Aboriginal Party advise Parks the Aboriginal Heritage Act. Victoria on Aboriginal cultural heritage y Heritage Victoria on heritage matters (section 4.1). management, and compliance with the Heritage Victoria is the central government Heritage Act agency which provides information and advice y North East Region and Goulburn– about places listed on the Victorian Heritage Murray Water Authorities to ensure Register and Archaeological Inventory. It management of water infrastructure in supports the Heritage Council through the park is consistent with the protection research, recommends additions to the Register of park values (section 7.1) and issues permits for alterations to heritage places. y State and regional tourism authorities to promote the park in regional visitor Tourism Victoria is the State government information centres and in regional authority responsible for developing and tourism strategies marketing Victoria to Australian and international travellers. y Indigo Shire Council regarding administration of the planning scheme, Victorian agencies work cooperatively with the including input into adjacent or nearby Commonwealth Department of the developments that may impact on the Environment and Water Resources on the park, the promotion of responsible pet management of regional ecosystem ownership (section 5.8), and promotion conservation issues. of the park’s cultural heritage in conjunction with Beechworth’s heritage Aim precinct (sections 4.1 and 4.2) • Enhance park management by y EPA Victoria to minimise impacts collaborating with other agencies to ensure associated with the discharge of waste they give appropriate consideration to park into the environment particularly those values in planning and implementing from Beechworth sewage activities that relate to the park. y Commonwealth Department of the Management strategy Environment and Water Resources on the management of regional ecosystem • Work collaboratively with all agencies to conservation issues. implement the plan vision and direction. In particular work with: y DSE regarding future planning and management, including protection of flora and fauna from potentially

38 Beechworth Historic Park

9 PLAN IMPLEMENTATION

that the future condition of values is 9.1 Delivery and reporting considered in identifying threats and A range of approaches will be used to developing actions to ameliorate them. Over implement strategies in this plan. Some will be time the success of actions is reviewed against undertaken as part of routine management set objectives to ensure on-going learning and activities such as ranger visits; others will be refinement of management. The selection of addressed as part of regional programs actions and treatments of threats are guided by undertaken across the state each year. the precautionary principle. Management A priority list of all the strategies in the plan options are evaluated on the basis of least will be used to guide routine management, and impact on the environment. Treatment of to identify detailed actions in annual regional threats with a potential for serious damage that programs. Priorities for regional programs vary is not addressed in the plan will not be from year to year depending on available postponed for lack of information. resources and government priorities. Parks Victoria will use a variety of means to At the end of each year, progress towards report to the community about the progress of implementing the plan will be reviewed and implementation of the plan. The primary the priority list updated. Staff report internally means will be through routine liaison between against ‘on time and within budget’ delivery of Parks Victoria, interested groups and regional programs and whether the completed individuals from the local community and strategy has achieved the objective. Parks relevant government agencies. In addition to Victoria reports annually to government on the giving regular updates, there will be overall delivery of regional and divisional opportunities for input by interested members programs. This broader reporting on of the community into annual priority setting management performance is available in and feedback on management performance. annual reports prepared on the National Parks Events such as park open days, and community Act and Parks Victoria. and volunteer forums will offer similar opportunities for reporting and discussions During implementation of the plan, Parks about annual programs. Victoria will work in partnership with the Traditional Owners. Ongoing collaborative The results of monitoring and research work activities with Indigenous communities, will continue to be available to the community interested members of the wider community, as technical reports available on Parks scientists and agencies in realising the vision Victoria’s website www.parkweb.vic.gov.au. and management directions for the park will be Parks Victoria will also report on evaluation of especially important as outlined in previous the plan (section 9.3) at the start of the new or sections of the plan. revised plan, through routine liaison and Implementation of the plan will be consistent community forums and in the subsequent draft with Parks Victoria’s commitment to plan. sustainable practices, which involves the Future State of the Parks reports, which will be delivery of operations, services and facilities in available on the Parks Victoria’s website, will an ecologically and socially responsible also include information on management manner with minimal use of expendable performance in the park. resources and minimal generation of waste. 9.2 Plan amendment In implementing the plan, management will respond to monitoring and research During the 10-year life of the plan, information as it emerges. Parks Victoria’s amendments to the plan may only be made by environmental management framework makes the Secretary to DSE, following an authorised this possible. Based on the International process which includes community Standard for Environmental Management consultation. Systems (ISO 14001), the framework ensures

Beechworth Historic Park 39 Plan implementation

Circumstances that might lead to amendment • Timely management intervention to of the plan include: minimise threats from rabbits and foxes. • the results of monitoring or research, • Minimal impact of permitted uses. management experience or new information (such as greater understanding • Compliance with park regulations. of new threatening processes) which indicate the need for a change in Protecting cultural values management direction • Meeting community expectations as a good manager of historic places. • significant changes in visitation or use • Progress towards implementation of • a change in policy that calls into question Heritage Actions Plans. plan objectives • Ongoing identification and documentation • new legislation (such as significant of historic sites and places in conjunction boundary changes). with community. The plan may also be amended if an activity, • Progress towards working with the development or use which conflicts with the relevant Registered Aboriginal Party in provisions of the plan is approved by managing the park and in protecting and government (such as native title outcomes). interpreting Indigenous cultural heritage. 9.3 Evaluation and review • Overall progress towards achieving directions for Aboriginal places and Periodically through the life of the plan, Parks objects Victoria will assess overall progress towards implementing the strategies in the plan and • Timely management intervention to also assess progress towards achieving the plan minimise damaging activities and threats. vision and directions. These evaluations will inform a decision about whether a new or Managing recreation and visitor use revised plan is required. The achievements of • Maintaining the levels of information and the plan will be assessed by considering interpretation (section 6.1). performance areas such as: • Meeting and maintaining the levels of Protecting natural values service for facilities (table 5). • Overall progress towards achieving • All facilities meet public safety standards environmental conservation objectives. and the majority of facilities with more • Maintaining populations of threatened than five years life expectancy. flora and fauna with emphasis on: • Meeting agreed road and track standards • increasing Yellow Hyacinth-orchid (tables 4 and 6). populations by reducing the threat of • All 2WD roads in at least fair to good browsing by herbivores condition. • ensuring the protection of Warby • Minimal impact from visitors, including Swamp Gum from inappropriate fire individuals, schools and tour groups. regimes • Maintaining visitor use levels. • ensuring protection of potential and existing Brush-tailed Phascogale • Maintaining visitor satisfaction with habitat. adequacy of recreational experiences (table 2). • Meeting fuel-reduction burning and ecological targets. • Meeting community expectations in relation to Parks Victoria’s management of • Meeting community expectations as a the park. good environmental manager.

40 Beechworth Historic Park Plan implementation

• Improving community and visitor Methods for evaluating the benefits of the plan awareness. are likely to be refined over time. Parks Victoria has introduced a range of structured Providing for research and promoting monitoring practices to collect standardised understanding and scientifically robust information. In • Ongoing partnerships with Indigenous particular these will improve understanding of communities and wider community the outcomes of management on natural participation. values, and allow improved reporting and assessment of performance. Parks Victoria also • Progress towards Indigenous views and partners external research agencies to enhance aspirations in the park’s planning and knowledge and understanding of the values management and features of the park and inform • Improved understanding of the ecosystem management decisions particularly in relation function of understudied flora and fauna. to pest and fire management. By using sound monitoring and assessment methods this • Improved understanding of the threats to, monitoring and research work will strengthen and habitat requirements of Brush-tailed the basis for comparing management Phascogales and Barking Owls. performance over time.

Beechworth Historic Park 41

REFERENCES

ANZECC 2001, National Strategy for the Catchment Management Authority, Conservation of Australia’s Biological Department of Sustainability and Diversity, Australia and New Zealand Environment, East Melbourne. Environment and Conservation Council, DSE 2004b, Guidelines and Procedures for Environment Australia, Canberra. Ecological Burning on Public Land in Australia ICOMOS 1999, The Australian Victoria, Department of Sustainability and ICOMOS Charter for the Conservation of Environment, East Melbourne. Places of Cultural Significance (the Burra DSE 2005a, Advisory List of Rare or Charter), revised edition, Australian Threatened Plants in Victoria 2005, National Committee of the International Department of Sustainability and Council of Monuments and Sites Inc., Environment, East Melbourne. Canberra. DSE 2005b, Bioregional Conservation Status Churchill R.C. 1998, A retrospective of Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVCs) at assessment of gold mining in the Reedy 1:100 000, Department of Sustainability Creek sub-catchment, North East Victoria and Environment, Melbourne Australia, B.Sc. (Hons.) thesis, La Trobe University, Wodonga (unpublished). DSE (database) 2005a, Atlas of Victorian Wildlife, Department of Sustainability and CNR 1993, Beechworth Historic Park Environment, East Melbourne. Visitor’s Guide, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, DSE (database) 2005b, Flora Information Beechworth. System, Department of Sustainability and Environment, East Melbourne. CNR 1996, Beechworth Historic Park weed management strategy, draft (unpublished). DSE 2006, Code of Practice for Fire Management on Public land, Department COAG 1992, National Strategy for of Sustainability and Environment, Ecologically Sustainable Development, Melbourne. Council of Australian Governments, Ecologically Sustainable Development DVC 2004, Beechworth Aboriginal Cultural Steering Committee. Heritage Investigation Project – A report on activities of the Aboriginal Community DSE 2003a, Recreation Framework for Box- Heritage Investigations Program, Ironbark Public Land, Department of Department of Victorian Communities Sustainability and Environment, East (unpublished). Melbourne. Government of Victoria 2002, Victorian DSE 2003b, North East Region Fire Protection Government Response to the Environment Plan, Department of Sustainability and Conservation Council Box-Ironbark Environment, East Melbourne Forests and Woodlands Investigation Final (unpublished). Report, Government of Victoria, DSE 2003c, Advisory List of Threatened Melbourne. Vertebrate Fauna in Victoria - 2003, ECC 2001, Box-Ironbark Forests and Department of Sustainability and Woodlands Investigation Final Report, Environment, East Melbourne. Environment Conservation Council, DSE 2003d, Mountain Bike Code, Forests Melbourne. Notes FS0018, Department of Environment Australia 1998, North East Sustainability and Environment, East Victoria Comprehensive Regional Melbourne. Assessment – National State Identification DSE 2004a, Biodiversity Action Planning – and Assessment in the North East Region of Landscape plan for the Lower Ovens Victoria, Environment Australia, Canberra. Landscape Zone in the North East

42 Beechworth Historic Park References

Heritage Victoria 2006, Victoria’s Heritage – Office of the Chief Electrical Inspector 1999, Strengthening our Communities, Heritage Code of Practice for Electric Line Victoria, Department of Sustainability and Clearance (Vegetation) 1999, Craftsmens Environment, East Melbourne Press, Melbourne. Indigo Shire Council 1999a, Indigo Shire Outdoor Recreation Centre 2006, Adventure Municipal Fire Prevention Strategy, Indigo Activity Standards (http://www.orc.org.au). Shire Council, Beechworth. Parks Victoria 1999a, Linking Victoria’s Gold Indigo Shire Council 1999b, Indigo Planning Heritage: A Concept for the Management Scheme, Indigo Shire Council, Beechworth. of Victoria’s Gold Era Assets (unpublished). Kaufman, R.J. 2002, Heritage Action Plan for Beechworth Mining Sites, LRGM - Parks Victoria 1999b, Results and findings of Services, unpublished report prepared for 1998/99 visitor research program Parks Victoria. (unpublished). LCC 1977, Final Recommendations: North- Parks Victoria 2002, Guidelines for Working Eastern Study Area Districts 3, 4 & 5, Land with Aboriginal Communities and Conservation Council, Melbourne. Protection of Cultural Sites, Parks Victoria, Melbourne (unpublished). LCC 1986, Final Recommendations: North- Eastern Area (Benalla-Upper Murray) Parks Victoria 2003a, Heritage Management Review, Land Conservation Council, Strategy, Parks Victoria, Melbourne. Melbourne. Parks Victoria 2003b, Statewide Public Land Meagher, D. 2005, Checklist of mosses and Ecological and Cultural Fire Recovery liverworts from One Tree Hill, Beechworth Plan, Parks Victoria, Melbourne Historic Park, School of Botany, and (unpublished). University of Melbourne (unpublished). Parks Victoria 2005a, Indigenous Partnership NECMA 2000, Ovens Basin Water Quality Strategy and Action Plan, Parks Victoria, Strategy, North East Catchment Melbourne. Management Authority, Wodonga. Parks Victoria 2005b, Risk Assessment for NECMA 2003, North East Catchment Chiltern–Mt Pilot National Park and Regional Strategy 2003-07, North East Beechworth Historic Park, Melbourne, Catchment Management Authority, (unpublished). Wodonga. Parks Victoria 2005c, Beechworth RIC Area NRE 1997a, Victoria’s Biodiversity Strategy: Emergency Management Plan, Parks Directions in Management, Department of Victoria (unpublished). Natural Resources and Environment, Parks Victoria 2006, Horse Riding Code, Melbourne. Melbourne (www.parkweb.vic.gov.au). NRE 1997b, Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act Sale & Hall 1993, Archaeological survey for Action Statement No. 79: Brush-tailed aboriginal sites: Mount Pilot Multi-purpose Phascogale, Phascogale tapoatafa, Park NE Victoria, Australian Institute of Department of Natural Resources and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Environment, Melbourne. Studies. NRE 1998, Guidelines for environmental Tourism Victoria 2004, Regional Tourism management in exploration and mining: Development Plan – North East Victoria Use of Mercury in the gold mining industry, 2004-2007, Tourism Victoria, Melbourne. Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Melbourne. Tourism Victoria 2007, Victoria’s Nature Based Tourism Strategy — Draft Plan NRE 2002, Policy for Sustainable Recreation 2007–2011, Tourism Victoria, Melbourne. and Tourism on Victoria's Public Land, Department of Natural Resources and Environment, East Melbourne.

Beechworth Historic Park 43 References

Personal communication Natasha Schedvin 2005, Barking Owl Research, Department of Sustainability and Environment

44 Beechworth Historic Park

GLOSSARY

Aboriginal cultural heritage – Aboriginal places, appropriate recreational infrastructure in a objects and Aboriginal human remains. consistent manner. Biodiversity – the natural diversity of all life: the Matters of National Environmental Significance sum of all our native species of flora and fauna, the – defined by the Environment Protection and genetic variation within them, their habitats and the Biodiversity Conservation Act to include: World ecosystems of which they are an integral part. Heritage Properties; Ramsar wetlands; nationally threatened species and communities; migratory Bioregion – an area with unique underlying species protected under international agreements; environmental and ecological features. the Commonwealth marine environment; and Catchment – the area of land that drains to a nuclear actions. watercourse or estuary. Monitoring – the process of systematic observation Country – all of nature, culture and spirituality of one or more elements of the environment over relating to an area. time. Crown land – land belonging to the State. Nature-based tourism – tourism that provides a range of experiences that rely on attractions directly Customs – observances and practices of people related to the natural environment. (includes land management and resource use) in accordance with tradition. Pest – exotic organisms (plants, animals or pathogens) that, if introduced outside their natural Ecological values – the importance of natural or previous distribution, they cause significant assets in maintaining natural ecosystems and changes to habitats, food chains, ecosystems or ecological processes, of which it is a part. human health by feeding on or competing with Ecologically sustainable development (ESD) – native species. development that improves the total quality of life Prospecting – the search for minerals (including both now and in the future, in a way that maintains gemstones) under a Miner’s Right or Tourist the ecological processes on which life depends. Fossicking Authority. Ecologically sustainable use – the use of a species Registered Aboriginal Party – registered under or ecosystem at a level that enables it to recover part 10 of the Aboriginal Heritage Act by the naturally. Aboriginal Heritage Council. Ecosystem – a dynamic complex of interacting Sediment – insoluble material suspended in water, organisms and their associated non-living consisting mainly of particles derived from rock, environment. soil and organic material. Freehold land – land held in private ownership. Stakeholders – those people and organisations Heritage – a place, activity, cultural way of life, who may affect, be affected by, or perceive structure or group of structures that has aesthetic, themselves to be affected by, a decision or activity. historic, scientific or social value for the past, Stormwater – runoff from land during and present or future generations. following rain. Stormwater removes accumulated Indigenous communities – Indigenous people who material including litter, soil, nutrients, pathogens, share cultural values and activities relating to the chemicals, pesticides, oils and grease. park. Threatening processes – a source of potential Indigenous people – people who are descendants harm or a situation with a potential to cause loss. of Aboriginal Australians and Torres Strait Tor – a rocky peak of a hill or mountain, Islanders. specifically one exposed by the weathering of Infrastructure – physical structures that facilitate surrounding rock. the human use of an area (e.g. roads, paths, toilet Tradition – the body of knowledge, belief and blocks). customs that is passed from generation to Levels of Service Framework – a strategic generation. framework for visitor services and asset Traditional Owners – person with traditional or management that is used to support resource familial links, an Aboriginal person with particular allocation decision-making to best provide knowledge about traditions, observances, customs

Beechworth Historic Park 45 Glossary or beliefs associated with the area, and the person management of the environment and its has responsibility under Aboriginal tradition for conservation. significant aboriginal places located in, or DPI – Department of Primary Industries. significant Aboriginal objects originating from, the area; or is a member of a family or clan group that DSE – Department of Sustainability and is recognized as having responsibility under Environment. Aboriginal tradition for significant aboriginal places located in or significant Aboriginal objects DVC – Department for Victorian Communities. originating from, the area. ECC – former Environment Conservation Council. Values – natural and cultural assets (e.g. historic EPA – Environment Protection Authority artefacts, features, landscapes, flora and fauna (Victoria). species, flora communities) that have been given worth or are considered to be desirable. LCC – former Land Conservation Council. Acronyms NRE – former Department of Natural Resources and Environment. AAV – Aboriginal Affairs Victoria. PMAV– Prospectors and Miners Association of ANZECC – former Australian and New Zealand Victoria Environment and Conservation Council. ANZECC was represented by government Ministers and PV – Parks Victoria. guided national policy and programs relating to the

46 Beechworth Historic Park Appendices

APPENDIX 1 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES FOR HISTORIC PARKS

Part 8 of Schedule Four of the National Section 18 Other Parks Parks Act provides that the Objects included (2) The Secretary shall, subject to this Act – in Sections 4(b) and 4(c) of the Act (as listed below) apply to the Beechworth Historic Park. (a) ensure that each park [described in Schedule 3] is controlled and managed in For an up-to-date copy of the National Parks accordance with the objects of the Act in a Act 1975 (Vic.), refer to Victorian Acts on the manner that will, insofar as is appropriate Victorian Legislation and Parliamentary to the park – Documents website, www.dms.dpc.vic.gov.au. (i) preserve, protect and re-establish Section 4 Objects of the Act indigenous flora and fauna in the park; (b) in respect of parks described in Schedule (ii) preserve and protect features in the Three – park of scenic, archaeological, (i) to make provision, insofar as is ecological, geological, historic or other appropriate to each such park, for the scientific interest; protection and preservation of (iii) enable the park to be used by the public indigenous flora and fauna and of for the enjoyment, observation and features of scenic or archaeological, study of the countryside and its ecological, historic or other scientific pursuits, its flora and fauna, its ecology interest; and and geology and other features; and (ii) subject to such provision as is made (iv) control exotic flora and fauna in the under sub-paragraph (i), to make park; provision for the public to observe, experience or otherwise become (b) ensure that proper and sufficient measures acquainted in those parks with the are taken to protect each park referred to countryside and rural skills activities [in Schedule 3] from injury by fire; and pursuits and for carrying on, in (c) promote and encourage the use and those parks and for those purposes, enjoyment of parks referred to in [in agricultural, horticultural, or other Schedule 3] by the public; and agrarian projects and botanical, biological, ecological, geological, (d) prepare a plan of management in respect of zoological, or other scientific studies or each park referred to [in Schedule 3]. projects; and (c) to make provision in accordance with the foregoing for the use of parks by the public for the purposes of enjoyment, recreation or education and for the encouragement and control of that use.

Beechworth Historic Park 47 Appendices

APPENDIX 2 SUBMISSIONS ON THE DRAFT MANAGEMENT PLAN

A total of 12 submissions were received on the Draft Management Plan (June to September 2006), from the following organisations and individuals.

ORGANISATION SUBMISSION INDIVIDUAL SUBMISSION NO. NO.

Submissions from groups Total: 9 Submissions from Individuals Total: 3 Aboriginal Affairs Victoria 10 Andrew Banks 8 Adventure Guides Australia 11 Ray Saunders 4 Albury-Wodonga Orienteering Club 9 Stuart & Rhonda Smith 3 Beechworth Chain Gang 12 Department of Primary Industries 5 Department of Sustainability and 1 Environment Federation of Victorian Walking Clubs 7 NE Cultural Heritage Program 2 Orienteering Victoria 6

48 Beechworth Historic Park Appendices

APPENDIX 3 HISTORIC PLACES

PLACE NAME LEVEL OF NATIONAL ESTATE COMMENT HERITAGE OR VICTORIAN SIGNIFICANCE HERITAGE ACT LISTING

Beechworth Historic Park State Registered on the Significant due to its aesthetic, National Estate educational and recreational values, and the historical significance of its goldmining relics (e.g. the Powder Magazine). Beechworth Scenic Drive Regional Indicative place Granite tors of major significance, and views out to major sites Beechworth Historic Park, gorge Unknown Indicative area Gold mining and cascades Sheep-station Creek alluvial Regional Victorian Heritage Gold mining workings Inventory Fletchers Tailrace Regional Victorian Heritage Gold mining Inventory Rocky Mountain Tunnel Regional Victorian Heritage Gold mining Inventory Chinamans Flat alluvial workings Regional Victorian Heritage Gold mining Inventory Six Mile Creek alluvial workings Regional Victorian Heritage Gold mining Inventory Collins Claim locality, Bartsh Road Local - Gold mining One Tree Hill locality, North Local - Gold mining Beechworth Gimlets locality, West Beechworth Local - Gold mining Flume, Hurdle Creek Local - Gold mining Ruins, Hurdle Creek Local - Gold mining Tunnel, Otts Track Local - Patterson dam, Otts Track Local - Morgans Flat locality, Sheep Local - Station Creek Flume, Silver Creek Local - Gold mining Shafts, Spring Creek Local - Gold mining Pipes (sluicing), Spring Creek Local - Gold mining Shafts, Stanley Road Local - Gold mining Wiltshire tin mine (Cheesewring), Local - Three Sisters Rock Chevaliers Mill, Tp.B west Local - Gold mining Chinese camp, Tp.B.CA 6/H2 Local - Gold mining

Key : - Not applicable

Beechworth Historic Park 49 Appendices

APPENDIX 4 RARE AND THREATENED FLORA

SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME CONSERVATION STATUS

AUSTRALIA VICTORIA FFG

Brachyscome gracilis Dookie Daisy v L Dipodium hamiltonianum Yellow Hyacinth-orchid e L Dodonaea boroniifolia Hairy Hop-bush r Eucalyptus aff. cinerea Beechworth Silver r (Beechworth) Stringybark Eucalyptus cadens Warby Swamp Gum V v L Indigofera adesmiifolia Tick Indigo v Isoetes pusilla Small Quillwort e L Leptospermum multicaule Silver Tea-tree v Pterostylis hamata Scaly Greenhood r Pterostylis sp. aff. boormanii Granite (Beechworth) e L (Beechworth) Rustyhood Pultenaea platyphylla Flat-leaf Bush pea r Pultenaea foliolosa Small-leaf Bush-pea r

Sources: DSE (database) 2005b, DSE 2005a

Conservation status: Australia (under Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act): V Vulnerable

Victoria: e endangered v vulnerable r rare

Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act (FFG): L listed under the FFG Act

50 Beechworth Historic Park Appendices

APPENDIX 5 RARE AND THREATENED FAUNA

SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME CONSERVATION STATUS

AUSTRALIA VICTORIA FFG

MAMMAL Phascogale tapoatafa Brush-tailed Phascogale v L

BIRDS Aythya australis Hardhead v Biziura lobata Musk Duck v Chthonicola sagittata Speckled Warbler v L, LC Cinclosoma punctatum Spotted Quail-thrush nt Circus assimilis Spotted Harrier nt Climacteris picumnus Brown Treecreeper nt LC Falco subniger Black Falcon v Hylacola pyrrhopygia Chestnut-rumped Heathwren v L Lophoictinia isura Square-tailed Kite v L Neophema pulchella Turquoise Parrot nt L, LC Ninox connivens Barking Owl e L, LC Oxyura australis Blue-billed Duck e L Phalacrocorax varius Pied Cormorant nt Stagonopleura guttata Diamond Firetail c L, LC Xanthomyza phrygia Regent Honeyeater EN ce L, LC

ASSOCIATED WITH VICTORIAN TEMPERATE-WOODLAND BIRD COMMUNITY Gerygone fusca Western Gerygone LC Lichenostomus fuscus Fuscous Honeyeater LC Lichenostomus melanops Yellow-tufted Honeyeater LC Melithreptus brevirostris Brown-headed Honeyeater LC Microeca fascinans Jacky Winter LC Petroica goodenovii Red-capped Robin LC

REPTILES Pogona barbata Eastern Bearded Dragon dd Varanus varius Tree Goanna v Vermicella annulata Bandy Bandy nt L Source: DSE 2003c, DSE (database) 2005a Conservation status: v vulnerable Australia (under Environment Protection and nt lower risk or near threatened Biodiversity Conservation Act): dd data deficient EN endangered FFG: Victoria: L listed under Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act ce critically endangered LC associated with the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act listed e endangered Victorian temperate-woodland bird community

Beechworth Historic Park 51 Appendices

APPENDIX 6 PEST PLANTS AND ANIMALS

SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME REGIONAL MAJOR LOCAL PEST PRIORITY ENVIRONMENT PRIORITY ANIMAL WEED WEED WEED HARBOUR

Pest plant Arlanthus altissima Tree of Heaven 9 Asparagus asparagoides Bridal Veil 9 Cirsium vulgare Spear Thistle 9 Conyza albida Fleabane 9 Crataegus monogyna Hawthorn 9 9 Cytisus palmensis Tagasaste 9 9 Cytisus scoparius Broom 9 9 Dipsacus fullomum Wild Teasel 9 Dittrichia graveolens Stinkwort 9 Echium plantagineum Paterson’s Curse 9 9 Erica lustanica Spanish Heath 9 Genista monspessulana Cape Broom 9 9 9 Hyperium perforatium St John’s Wort 9 9 Lavendula stoechas Topped Lavender 9 Leycesteria formosa Himalayan 9 Honeysuckle Ligustrum vulgare Privet 9 9 Pinus radiata Monterey Pine 9 Pittosporum undulatum Sweet Pittosporum 9 Robinia pseudoacacia Black Locust 9 Rosa rubiginosa Sweet Briar 9 9 Rubus sp. Blackberry 9 9 9 Salix spp. Willows 9 Ulex europaeus Gorse 9 9 9 Vinca major Blue Periwinkle 9 Watsonia meriana Wild Watsonia 9 Pest animal Oryctolagus cuniculus European Rabbit Vulpes vulpes Red Fox Felis catus Feral Cat

Sources: DSE (database) 2005a; 2005b

52 Beechworth Historic Park Kerang NEW SOUTH WALES

Barmah State Park

MURRAY CALDER Barmah NEW SOUTH WALES NEW SOUTH WALES Leaghur State State Park MURRAY Park LODDON Broken- Boosey VALLEY SUNRAYSIA VALLEY State Park

HWY HWY Chiltern - Terrick Terrick Wodonga National Park Mt Pilot HWY National

Park VALLEY HWY Y Charlton HWY W HWY HWY Warby FWY cknabeal Range

VALLEY State Wangaratta Rochester Park Beechworth MIDLAND HWY CALDER BEECHWORTH NORTHERN GREAT SUNRAYSIA Greater HISTORIC HUME PARK St Arnaud Bendigo Benalla Regional National Park Myrtleford H Park VALLEY WY HWY HWY ALPINE St Arnaud NORTHERN Reef Hills Kooyoora ROAD HWY Heathcote - MIDLAND State Graytown State Mt WIMMERA Bendigo Park Regional Park National Park Park Buffalo Bendigo Euroa National McIVOR GOULBURN Park Bright Nagambie St Arnaud HWY Mt Samaria Range FWY National State Park CALDER Park HWY

Heathcote ROAD Mt Alexander HWY Regional Park Seymour HWY Maryborough Castlemaine HWY Mansfield

Stawell Avoca HWY HWY Maryborough Ararat MAROONDAH WESTERN Regional Regional Park Paddys HWY Castlemaine - Park Ranges GOULBURN Alexandra s Diggings Broadford Yea State National Alpine VALLEY National Park Kyneton HWY Heritage Park Mt Buangor Park Kilmore HUME Alpine State Park HWY National Hepburn HWY Lake Ararat Regional Park Cathedral Eildon Park Kinglake Langi Ghiran Daylesford Woodend Range National National State Park State Park HWY MIDLAND Macedon Park Beaufort Creswick Macedon Regional Park Park MELBA MAROONDAH WESTERN 0 20 40 Lerderderg Marysville Woodlands Figure 1State REGIONAL LOCALITY PLAN Yarra Historic HWY Park Park KILOMETRES Ballarat Ranges ã BEECHWORTH HISTORIC PARK National Park N Cartography by Spatial Vision 2004 WAY M/7826 Freeway/Highway Organ Avon Werribee THEACHERON Long Pipes Wilderness HWY Gorge Forest Warrandyte Healesville Other major road MIDLAND National Park GLENELG State FR State Park Park Park MELBA Beechworth Historic Park Haining Farm Mooreep Warburton BR Brisbane MELBOURNE Dandenong H Other Box-Ironbark Parks Enfield Ranges Ranges Point National Cook MELBOURNE State National l Other Parks & Reserves Park l Park Coastal Park Steiglitz Park Baw 8 Historic 7 Churchill Baw Lysterfield Other Public Land Park National Pt. Cooke National Park Bunyip Lake Park HWY Park FWY State Waterbody Dandenong 9 PRINCES Park Moondarra S Regional State Park PRINCES PORT PHILLIP BAY Park HWY HWY Pt. Wilson Mortlake Sa Warragul BELLA Langwarrin HWY RINE Moe FFR Traralgon S WOOLSHED Reedy To Stanley Rising McFEETERS Figure 2 MANAGEMENT Magpie ROAD To Creek Chiltern ROAD ZONES CHILTERN REIDS WAY TRACK Creek k Sun Fred SCHLIEBS BEECHWORTH HISTORIC PARK CFA Creek Gully Reids Creek Hellshed C377

ROAD BEECHWORTH 0 500 1000 La Serena Creek WOOLSHED Gully METRES FALLS RD WODONGA Racecourse Pound ã Cartography by Spatial Vision 2006 TRACK N M/7826 C315

LANE

Creek Running

ROAD PINE ROAD Major sealed road GORGE BLOCK Minor sealed road Spring TRACK TRACK Bob Creek Creek

Creek Creek MALAKOFF GREEN Unsealed road BEECHWORTH WATTLE Fred YACK WATTLE BLOCK 4 wheel drive road Creek &

ROAD TK TELEGRAPH SHEEP FIDDES BLOCK Management Vehicle access Station STATION Creek CREEK OLD CHILTERN RD KIBELL Walking track

SISTERS BLOCK Waterbody Green ROAD Creek

THREE Creek

TK STOCKYARD ONE TREE GREEN Sheep ROCK ONE TREEHILL RD Cemetery Creek ZONE BALACLAVA RD Graveyard Stockyard Conservation & Recreation SYDNEY RD

ROAD PONDS ROAD Wattle Tin ROAD K Creek

T ROBINSON KARS ROAD OVERLAY MALAKOFF TRACK GRAVEYARD K HAVELOCK

C FLAT TK TK Special Protection Area - Natural Values BLOCK RED D

R STCAMP ST Gully A CREEK Kerry Special Protection Area - Cultural Values Y GORGE Spring ELGIN Eagle E V HILL A GUM Special Management Area - Public Safety Creek R G Beechworth ALMA ROAD ROAD RIDGE FLAT WALLABY TK TWIST ROCK Silver Special Management Area - Public Utilities ST RED BLOCK RAWES Lake Land Use Designation - Prospecting ALBERT RD Sambell Creek ROAD FINCH ST Madman HILL TK Land Use Designation - Water Supply SHEEP Gully KERFERD ROAD ROAD FORD ST Mile MIDDLE HIGH OTTS BLOCK TRACK COLLINS TK STATION TK HODGE KERFERD CREEK ST C525 DIXONS LAKE RD Creek KERFERD TK MELLISH ST KERFERD ROAD

DINGLE Lake Kerferd RD Deep Nine ROAD Creek Rawbottom Creek Creek Hurdle PIPELINE BRIDGE ST Gully FLETCHERS BEECHWORTH TRACK SILVER CREEK DAM RD C315 BUCKLAND BEECHWO RT H ROAD FLAT RD ROAD OLD Europa Dam Creek Black ROAD HURDLE WANGARATTASprings Silver STANLEY Creek STANLEY Gully To ROAD Wangaratta TWO Hurdle ROAD MILE BLACKMORE LA Flat Stony Sawpit CREEK Creek Creek

BLOCK C524 ROAD Europa ROAD RHODES

DIFFEY Silver Mile MASONS

Two Deep ROAD ROAD Bright

VOIGTS BARTSH Gully Hodgson GAP

Three Creek

Creek THREE ROAD TULLY C525 Mile MILE RYAN RD CREEK BLOCK ROAD ROAD Creek Creek Baarmutha FIGHTING SIX Creek Deadman Six ROAD DIFFEY

ROAD SIX MILE GULLY ROAD Mile MILE Three ROAD Stanley CREEK Creek Creek BLOCK Creek

PUND To Mile LADY Mile Gapstead ROAD DVE ROAD NEWTON Six DINGLE

Sealed road

Unsealed road

Walking track

Ski Trail ONE Spring TREE Day Loop ONE TREE Spring Creek Creek TK HILL RD Bridge Leadbeaters Loop

Summit Loop Trail (Winter Only) Gravel C One Pit Site way

National Park ROBINSON TK C One ROAD way KARS ST Alpine Resort C Other Public Land The Powder GORGE Magazine GORGE ROAD Recreational CAMP ST Facilities

Barbecue - Gas 0 0.25 km Bistro

Facilities for people with disabilities

Information

Lookout

Picnic shelter

Picnic table

Toilets

0250 500

METRES Cartography by Spatial Vision 2004 N M/6438

MELBOURNE l H WOOLSHED Reedy To Stanley Rising McFEETERS Figure 3 VISITOR ACCESS Magpie ROAD To Creek Chiltern ROAD & FACILITIES CHILTERN REIDS WAY TRACK Creek k Sun Woolshed Fred SCHLIEBS Falls BEECHWORTH HISTORIC PARK CFA Creek Gully Reids Creek Hellshed C377

ROAD BEECHWORTH 0 500 1000 La Serena Creek WOOLSHED Gully METRES FALLS RD WODONGA Racecourse Pound ã Cartography by Spatial Vision 2007 TRACK N M/7826 C315

LANE

Creek Running

ROAD PINE ROAD Major sealed road GORGE BLOCK Minor sealed road Spring TRACK TRACK Bob Creek Creek

Creek Creek MALAKOFF GREEN Unsealed road BEECHWORTH WATTLE Fred YACK WATTLE BLOCK 4 wheel drive road Creek &

ROAD TK TELEGRAPH SHEEP FIDDES BLOCK Management Vehicle access Station STATION Creek CREEK Precipice OLD CHILTERN RD KIBELL Lookout Walking track SISTERS BLOCK Waterbody Green ROAD Creek

THREE Creek

TK STOCKYARD ONE TREE GREEN Sheep ROCK ONE TREEHILL RD Cemetery Beechworth Historic Park Creek BALACLAVA RD

Graveyard Stockyard

SYDNEY RD

ROAD PONDS ROAD Wattle Tin ROAD K Creek

T ROBINSON KARS ROAD MALAKOFF TRACK GRAVEYARD K HAVELOCK

C FLAT TK BLOCK RED TK D

R STCAMP ST Gully A CREEK Kerry Recreational Y GORGE Spring ELGIN Eagle E HILL V Facilities A GUM

Creek R G Beechworth ALMA ROAD ROAD RIDGE FLAT WALLABY TK TWIST ROCK Silver SEE ST RED Carpark BLOCK RAWES INSET Lake ALBERT RD Sambell Creek Family walk ROAD FINCH ST Madman HILL TK SHEEP Lookout Gully KERFERD ROAD ROAD FORD ST Mile MIDDLE HIGH OTTS BLOCK TRACK COLLINS TK Park information STATION TK Newtown HODGE KERFERD CREEK ST C525 DIXONS LAKE Picnic table Falls RD Creek KERFERD TK MELLISH ST ROAD KERFERD C DINGLE Lake Kerferd Scenic drive RD Deep Nine ROAD Creek Hurdle Creek Rawbottom Creek Toilets PIPELINE Gully FLETCHERS BRIDGE ST TRACK BEECHWORTH Adjacent Caravan Park SILVER CREEK DAM RD C315 BUCKLAND BEECHWO RT H ROAD Mine site FLAT RD ROAD OLD Europa Dam Creek Black ROAD HURDLE WANGARATTASprings Silver STANLEY Creek STANLEY Gully To ROAD Wangaratta TWO Hurdle ROAD MILE BLACKMORE LA Flat Stony Sawpit CREEK Creek Creek

BLOCK C524 ROAD Europa ROAD RHODES

DIFFEY Silver Mile MASONS

Two Deep ROAD INSET ROAD Bright VOIGTS BARTSH ONE Gully Hodgson Spring TREE GAP One Tree Hill ONE TREE Spring Creek Three Creek TK HILL RD Bridge Creek Creek l THREE ROAD TULLY C525 Mile MILE

RYAN RD CREEK

ROAD Gravel C One BLOCK

way Creek

Pit Site ROAD

Creek ROBINSON TK C One BaarmuthaROAD KARS ST FIGHTING way SIX Creek Deadman Six ROADC DIFFEY The Powder GORGE Magazine ROAD SIX MILE GORGE ROAD ROAD GULLY Mile CAMP ST MILE Three ROAD Stanley CREEK Creek Creek BLOCK Creek

PUND To Mile Gapstead LADY Mile 0 0.25 ROAD km DVE ROAD NEWTON Six DINGLE WOOLSHED REEDY Rising Reedy To Stanley McFEETERS CREEK MAGPIE HISTORIC CREEK Figure 4 PARK AND ADJACENT AREA Magpie ROAD To HISTORIC AREA Creek Chiltern ROAD LAND TENURE CHILTERN REIDS WAY TRACK Creek k Sun Fred SCHLIEBS BEECHWORTH HISTORIC PARK CFA Creek Gully Reids Creek NATIONAL PARK Hellshed C377

ROAD BEECHWORTH 0 500 1000 La Serena Creek CHILTERN-MT PILOT WOOLSHED Gully METRES FALLS RD WODONGA Racecourse Pound ã Cartography by Spatial Vision 2006 TRACK N M/7826 C315

LANE

Creek Running

ROAD PINE ROAD Major sealed road GORGE BLOCK Minor sealed road Spring TRACK TRACK Bob Creek Creek

Creek Creek MALAKOFF GREEN Unsealed road BEECHWORTH WATTLE Fred YACK WATTLE BLOCK 4 wheel drive road Creek &

ROAD TK TELEGRAPH SHEEP FIDDES BLOCK Management Vehicle access Station STATION Creek CREEK OLD CHILTERN RD KIBELL Walking track SISTERS BLOCK BEECHWORTH NATURAL Waterbody Green ROAD FEATURES Creek RESERVE

THREE Creek

TK STOCKYARD ONE TREE GREEN Sheep ROCK ONE TREEHILL RD Cemetery Beechworth Historic Park Creek BALACLAVA RD

Graveyard Stockyard Other Reserves SYDNEY RD ROAD PONDS Other Public Land ROAD Wattle Tin ROAD K Creek

T ROBINSON KARS ROAD MALAKOFF TRACK GRAVEYARD K HAVELOCK

C FLAT TK BLOCK RED TK D

R STCAMP ST Gully A CREEK Kerry Y GORGE Spring ELGIN Eagle E V HILL A GUM

Creek R G Beechworth ALMA ROAD ROAD RIDGE FLAT WALLABY TK TWIST ROCK Silver SEE ST RED NINE MILE CREEK BLOCK HISTORIC AREA RAWES INSET Lake ALBERT RD Sambell Creek ROAD FINCH ST Madman HILL TK SHEEP Gully KERFERD ROAD ROAD FORD ST Mile MIDDLE HIGH OTTS BLOCK TRACK COLLINS TK STATION TK HODGE KERFERD CREEK ST C525 DIXONS LAKE RD Creek KERFERD TK MELLISH ST KERFERD ROAD

DINGLE Lake Kerferd RD Deep Nine ROAD Creek Rawbottom Creek Creek Hurdle PIPELINE BRIDGE ST Gully FLETCHERS BEECHWORTH TRACK SILVER CREEK DAM RD C315 BUCKLAND BEECHWO RT H STANLEY ROAD FLAT RD ROAD NATURAL OLD FEATURES Europa Dam Creek RESERVE Black ROAD HURDLE WANGARATTASprings Silver STANLEY Creek STANLEY Gully To ROAD Wangaratta TWO Hurdle ROAD MILE BLACKMORE LA Flat Stony Sawpit CREEK Creek Creek

BLOCK C524 ROAD Europa ROAD RHODES

DIFFEY Silver Mile MASONS

Two Deep ROAD ROAD Bright

VOIGTS BARTSH Gully Hodgson GAP

Three Creek

Creek THREE ROAD TULLY C525 Mile MILE RYAN RD CREEK BLOCK ROAD ROAD Creek Creek Baarmutha FIGHTING SIX Creek Deadman Six ROAD DIFFEY

MURMUNGEE ROAD SIX MILE GULLY ROAD NATURAL Mile MILE FEATURES CREEK Three ROAD Stanley RESERVE Creek Creek BLOCK Creek MURMUNGEE PUND To Mile NATURAL LADY Mile FEATURES Gapstead ROAD RESERVE DVE ROAD NEWTON Six DINGLE Lake Mountain

Sealed road

Unsealed road

Walking track

Ski Trail ONE Spring TREE Day Loop ONE TREE Spring Creek Creek TK HILL RD Bridge Leadbeaters Loop

Summit Loop Trail (Winter Only) Gravel C One Pit Site way

National Park ROBINSON TK C One ROAD way KARS ST Alpine Resort C Other Public Land The Powder GORGE Magazine GORGE ROAD Recreational CAMP ST Facilities

Barbecue - Gas 0 0.25 km Bistro

Facilities for people with disabilities

Information

Lookout

Picnic shelter

Picnic table

Toilets

0250 500

METRES Cartography by Spatial Vision 2004 N M/6438

MELBOURNE l H