Coastline The Coast Action/Coastcare Newsletter ISBN 1329-0835 Edition 38 Summer 2006

Communities caring for our coast

 State Program Coordinator’s Message by Catherine Clancy

Welcome to this Spring/Summer Edition of opportunities for people with disabilities in South Coastline. West Victoria and the first International Youth Spring has been full of very positive actions despite Coastal Conference held in Queenscliff are profiled. the dry conditions. Ensuring our volunteers are The need to provide good learning experiences safe is very important to DSE and the Coast Action and information that influences the development program. Building safety leadership skills and of our future decision makers, across every level providing clear methods about safe work practices and field of employment, so that they can make within our community groups has been the focus environmentally conscious decisions, was a of the Sure & Steady OHS training program. It has prevailing theme at the International Youth Coastal been very reassuring to see groups embrace the Conference. training so positively as the safety of our volunteers The passion and enthusiasm of this group of is important to the whole community and the 300 students, who worked together to develop contribution of group members is valued. engaging workshops and demonstrate their Working with the community to provide training leadership skills about topics that will affect the and support capacity building, continues to future of where they live, was both empowering achieve good outcomes for the environment as and inspirational. Exploring climate change, global well as building strong cohesive communities who warming, the use of recycled water and why we work together in their local area. We bring you continue to put pollutants down our drains were some practical examples in this edition such as the just some of the topics presented that highlighted re-establishment of mangroves along the banks the naked truth and the need to take actions to of the Barwon River and the partnerships created empower individuals collectively. between a range of community members and Education is an essential tool for cultural and agencies who worked together; as well as the behavioural change. This is why Coast Action’s Seagrass monitoring in the beautiful Nooramunga Summer Activities Program provides opportunities sea country which is inspirational thanks to the co- for involvement, action and awareness; so that operative approach that has been taken. we can care for the coast in real ways that make a This edition also has stories on inclusive difference. opportunities for youth that have resulted in Enjoy the Summer. very positive actions. The partnerships with Active Oceans to create sustainable recreational Regards, Catherine

 Sure & Steady – OH&S for volunteers by Dianne Moore, Coast Action/Coastcare Facilitator, Port Phillip West

Coast Action/Coastcare has developed a pilot 2006 to support the development of the safety occupational health and safety (OH&S) program leadership skills within our coastal community. to support volunteers working on coastal Crown “The opportunity for volunteers to develop land. The ‘Sure & Steady’ program provides tools their skills and improve OH&S practices within and strategies for community groups undertaking their projects on public land will assist them in activities and projects on coastal Crown land to maintaining a safe ‘working’ environment while ensure they experience a safe and hazard-free they are actively volunteering”, says Catherine activity or event. Clancy, State Program Coordinator. The OH&S Act 2004 outlines that all volunteers Catherine says, “The most important part of any need to be treated as employees of the organisation project or activity is the safety of the participants. they are volunteering for in relation to OH&S issues. Putting in place safe systems of work is paramount Coast Action/Coastcare recognised the need to to protecting and demonstrating that we value our develop and implement OH&S procedures to ensure volunteers”. a safe working environment for our volunteers. Many community groups carry out activities without According to course participant Bev Woods the direction and supervision of a Department of from the Friends of Lobster Pot on the Bellarine Sustainability and Environment (DSE) staff member Peninsula the course was very comprehensive. or associated land manager and rely on volunteer “It made us aware that we need to go back to experience and common sense to ensure they are doing some of the things we used to do when we safe while working in the field. first started up Friends Groups. For example, we Coast Action/Coastcare, in conjunction with the need to keep full, comprehensive lists of people DSE OH&S Unit and David Caple & Associates (OHS attending so that their needs can be looked after. training providers), has formulated a Volunteer It helped to reinforce what we need to do to keep Coordinator OH&S manual and training program our projects running smoothly.” to support our dedicated volunteers. While OH&S is often considered to be common sense, there are For further information on OH&S training processes and tools that can assist in identifying in your region in 2007 or to obtain a free hazards, and there is information available that can copy of the “Sure & Steady”, OHS manual help to minimise hazards. for coastal volunteer co-ordinators, please contact your local Coast Action/Coastcare Coast Action/Coastcare conducted training Facilitator. sessions for volunteers in September and October

 MainBiodiversity title ByAction line Planning

Victoria’s biological diversity, or biodiversity, includes the variety of all life – the different plants, animals and micro- organisms, the genes they contain within ecosystems such as alps, mallee, grasslands, grassy woodlands, forests, heathlands, inland waters, wetlands, coasts, intertidal rocky shores and seagrass beds that form our diverse • restoration of at least some of their former biological heritage. Conserving native biodiversity extent of habitats by revegetation or is fundamental to our quality of life and our reintroduction. economic well-being, however many species and communities are under threat. BAP is conducted at three levels, ranging from a broad to a detailed scale. The Strategic Overview The statewide Biodiversity Action Planning is the broadest scale and provides details of the Program is a partnership between the Department framework and methodology used in the BAP of Sustainability and Environment, Catchment process and an overview of the features and assets Management Authorities and Local Government. of the bioregion. Preparation and implementation of plans is funded by the Department of Sustainability and Landscape Plans are written for each landscape Environment, Catchment Management Authorities zone within a bioregion and contain specific and the Natural Heritage Trust, and relies on the information on assets and priorities for actions voluntary co-operation and support from local land within the landscape zones. managers and communities. Biodiversity Action The biodiversity information provided in Landscape Planning has been developed in response to the Plans will assist in the preparation of Local Area State Government’s Victoria’s Biodiversity Strategy Plans, and other planning processes such as and is being conducted across Victoria to plan for Landcare plans. native biodiversity conservation at a landscape level. Local Area Plans are specific plans that nominate Biodiversity Action Planning (BAP) attempts to take and prioritise actions across the local landscape a strategic approach to conservation of threatened that should be implemented to conserve the and declining species and vegetation types by native biodiversity of the area. These actions looking for opportunities to conserve groups of are developed in conjunction with landholders species in appropriate ecosystems. It supports the and land managers. Various groups – including notion of a ‘net gain’ in the extent and quality of Landcare Groups, the Department of Sustainability native vegetation as outlined in Victoria’s Native and Environment (DSE), Local Government, and Vegetation Management Framework. The approach Catchment Management Authorities (CMA) can is based on the application of scientific principles for develop local Area Plans. landscape conservation of biodiversity - and is about Victoria has been divided into 28 bioregions, which planning future landscapes. are areas that have similar ecological and physical BAP identifies where the most significant attributes. The Port Phillip and Westernport area native biodiversity values are, and aims to focus includes parts of six bioregions and 17 Landscape conservation actions on the protection, maintenance Zones. A map of Victoria that shows the and restoration of ecosystems at these sites. bioregions and landscape zones can be found on The philosophy of BAP is that biodiversity actions the DSE website. should be directed towards: All published Strategic Overviews and Landscape • protection of remnant habitats and the flora and Plans, maps and useful resource documents are fauna populations they contain; available on the DSE website: • enhancement of the condition of these habitats www.dse.vic.gov.au > conservation and and populations; and environment > biodiversity action planning

 Victoria’s Coastal Spaces Initiative By Rebecca Price, Senior Planning and Policy Officer – Public Land Division

Victoria’s Coastal Spaces Initiative has been • $600,000 to progressed to help local governments implement work with local the Victorian Coastal Strategy 2002 and manage councils to progress development pressures in coastal towns beyond implementation metropolitan Melbourne. The Coastal Spaces of the Coastal Initiative has sought to identify opportunities Spaces Landscape for improvements through reform, partnerships, Assessment and investment and other approaches. Great Ocean Road Houses on the Torquay Region Landscape The Minister for Planning, Rob Hulls, and the Foreshore Assessment Minister for Environment, John Thwaites, released studies. the Coastal Spaces Recommendations Report in • $325,000 of Commonwealth Natural Heritage April 2006. It outlines a series of recommendations Trust funding for the development of policy and and associated actions designed to achieve guidelines for addressing Coastal Acid Sulfate improved outcomes for coastal Victoria. Soils. Under the Coastal Spaces Recommendations Report, • $100,000 to work with Wellington Shire to the Government announced it would provide: address old and inappropriate subdivisions along • Up to $1 million from the Moving Forward in Gippsland’s Ninety Mile beach. Provincial Victoria to support non-metropolitan • Continuing investment in innovative solutions coastal councils plan for and manage change to address environmental hotspots through the through strategic planning for settlements. town and country water supply program. National Cooperative Approach to Integrated Coastal Zone Management By John Ginivan, Project Director, Coastal Spaces

The coastal zone is one of Australia’s greatest assets. • climate change; The fundamental goal of Integrated Coastal Zone • pest plants and animals; Management (ICZM) is to maintain, restore or improve • planning for population change; and the quality of coastal zone ecosystems and the societies • capacity building. they support. National cooperation is required to achieve An implementation plan that seeks nationally ecologically sustainable development through ICZM. cooperative outcomes within nominated timeframes The Framework for a National Cooperative Approach was released in May 2006. The National Cooperative to Integrated Coastal Zone Management, endorsed Approach to Integrated Coastal Zone Management in October 2003, addresses both development and – Framework and Implementation Plan sets out, under conservation challenges for coastal Australia that are the strategic priority areas, implementation objectives of national scale and scope. It recognises the need for and actions required to address coastal management governments to support ongoing economic, social and issues. Actions identified in the implementation plan environmental well-being in the coastal zone. It sets will build on existing coastal management initiatives the scene for national cooperation in managing coastal at all levels of government and, where feasible, will be issues and ensuring effective and complementary achieved through the efficient allocation of existing arrangements within and across jurisdictions, and to resources. better reflect the interests of coastal stakeholders. The National Cooperative Approach to Integrated The six priority areas addressed in the Framework are: Coastal Zone Management – Framework and • integration across the catchment coast ocean Implementation Plan will play an important role in continuum; guiding future investment through the Natural Heritage • land and marine based sources of pollution; Trust. See www.deh.gov.au for further information.

 Building Opportunities to Develop Skills By Denis Cox, Facilitator, Coast Action/Coastcare Port Phillip East

A major aim of Coast Action/Coastcare is to There is clear evidence that the skills gained empower community groups so they can better have been converted into action by hundreds of participate in the protection, management and community members to achieve many successful enhancement of our coasts. Managing some areas projects along the coastline of Victoria. Training of public land depends on volunteers who are is not always formal, and has included the prepared to put in their own time and effort to production of information sheets, pamphlets and improve environmental conditions. Their projects CDs to help educate the general public. often have important social consequences and Training can be for an individual group or can relevant, quality training and education programs bring members together for a session on a topic to improve the skills of these committed people of shared interest. The benefit of the shared is vital if their continued support and high quality interest format is that it becomes an exchange of outcomes are to be expected. knowledge and information between members of Coastal community education has been a major groups and establishes invaluable networks. consideration for Coast Action/Coastcare since Here are just two examples of training that Coast its inception in 1994 and is a core part of the Action/Coastcare has been involved with that have Coast Action/Coastcare Strategy. Facilitators assist resulted in long-term community benefits. coastal volunteer groups to gain training and education experiences through courses relevant to A Freshwater Ecology training day was run their training needs and circumstances. in August 2003 to raise awareness and build management skills for coastal groups on In partnership with community conservation Mornington Peninsula, because most coastal groups, local government, business, Parks Victoria, groups have a stream passing through their area. the Department of Primary Industries and many To remain healthy, creeks must be managed and other publicly-funded conservation programs, maintained as living entities rather than merely Coast Action/Coastcare has run dozens of training drainage outlets so it is essential that groups sessions, seminars, workshops, and short courses working around streams have a good knowledge over the years. The number of participants is about the functioning of waterways. in the thousands. More importantly though, the knowledge, skills, networks and sense of A skilled fish biologist consultant was employed community that has been cultivated and then used and he worked with DSE freshwater fisheries on the coast is phenomenal. biologists, who enthusiastically contributed their

Norm McKinley inspects the dense revegetation at Chinaman’s Creek, Rosebud. Norm still uses the information her learned at the Freshwater Ecology training day three years ago to guide this project.

 time for free. The course was held at Main Creek, a major stream on the Mornington Peninsula. Issues covered included requirements for freshwater fish habitat, the importance of evergreen native trees and shrubs, the loss of habitat from clearing, trampling of stream edges by stock, high nutrient loads and willow replacement. Participants found the testing for stream life using electro-fishing methods particularly interesting (but no volunteer was harmed in these experiments)! Since the training, Peninsula groups have been busy eradicating riparian weeds and planting the correct species to protect the stream and encourage the recovery of invertebrate and fish life. Concerns raised on the Mornington Peninsula about the long-term viability of the koala population, particularly along the coastal reserves between Somers and Shoreham lead to a determination for action to halt the gradual, but inevitable loss of the koala’s habitat. This decision coincided with the Minister for the Environment’s launch of the State Koala Strategy. In late 2004, Ashley Reed, ranger at the Koala Conservation more than 40 members of Mornington Peninsula Centre. Phillip Island, discusses establishing a groups went on bus tour to Phillip Island, plantation of trees for koala food. organised by Coast Action/Coastcare. The tour inspected a plantation of 10–12 year-old Manna and Port Phillip east and between Westernport and Gums at the Koala Conservation Centre, where Mornington Peninsula groups. Visiting projects in rangers gave a briefing on growing the correct tree other regions is an important part of building the species, and how to protect the young trees from capacity of community groups and the networking predation as they grow to maturity. opportunities these visits provide is a great way to The experience and knowledge gained from share knowledge and experience. the tour led to the establishment of a nursery at Last year’s Marine and Coastal Ecology courses Balnarring Foreshore Reserve where hundreds of helped many volunteers to increase their knowledge Manna and Swamp Gums – the favourite food of and develop valuable skills. Participants at the koalas – are being grown. In 2005, the Balnarring courses included people from the community, local Foreshore Committee of Management successfully governments, state government departments and applied for a NHT grant to grow and plant 10,000 agencies, and regional coastal boards. The course trees, and with support from the Conservation was designed to raise the level of understanding of Volunteers Australia, the coastal committee is well Victoria’s coastal and marine ecology and the issues on its way to achieving this goal. that these environments are facing. Lessons learnt nearly two years ago have had a Participants were selected primarily on their ability long-term impact. The nursery is now an ongoing to use the information and skills developed in resource for the coastal committees carrying out the course in their coastal and marine activities one of their major management responsibilities and to share these skills with others. By working of re-establishing indigenous plants for wildlife together, opportunities to build healthy, robust habitat and coastal protection. Coast Action/ environmental and social communities have Coastcare Facilitators have organised many visits become a reality for many people all across the between coastal community groups in Gippsland Victorian coast.

 Access for All – creating coastal sport and recreation for people with disabilities By Paul Lougheed, Co-ordinator – Active Oceans

South west Victoria, between Port Campbell and A beach wheelchair Nelson, has a wonderful coastline, but prior to is available through 1998, there were few opportunities for people the Active Oceans with disabilities to access this valuable asset. program. A group of disability service providers decided to come together and use this asset as a basis for and participate in sport and recreation programs. In 1999 the Active the life of the south Oceans Committee received a one-off grant from west community, VicHealth to establish the Active Oceans Program. with the same In 2001 Active Oceans received recurrent funding rights, responsibilities and opportunities as from the Department of Human Services. all other citizens. By developing community partnerships, opportunities are created for The four key aims of the Active Oceans program are: people with disabilities to link in with local 1. To provide sustainable coastal recreation sporting clubs. Active Oceans is supported and sporting opportunities for people with by a range of organisations including South disabilities throughout the south west of West Sports Assembly, Kyeema, Rural Access, Victoria. Commonwealth Carer Respite Centre, Coast Active Oceans co-ordinates a range of coastal- Action/Coastcare, Karingal, Vision Australia, based activities including surfing, sailing, South West TAFE, Aquazone, Nestles Rowing snorkelling fishing and more. Activities are run in Club, Warrnambool Angling Club, Warrnambool partnership with local clubs and organisations. Swimming Clubs, Port Fairy Sailing Club and This ensures quality facilitation of programs, Camperdown Angling Club. volunteer support and opportunities for meaningful community participation through Active Oceans also has a role in supporting the club membership. development of accessible coastal infrastructure, 2. To promote active and health lifestyles for for example accessible pathways and jetties. It participants. Health promotion is about also maintains a Beach Access Wheelchair that’s maintaining health and preventing ill health. available for general community use. Preventative health needs to be a key focus These initiatives along with community support will of any health promotion strategy. More lives ensure increased access for people with a disability have been saved by the prevention of problems to the dynamic beaches and waterways of the rather than the treatment of problems. Active south west. Oceans attempts to promote healthy lifestyles by providing active sporting and recreation activities. For further information 3. To provide an innovative respite option about the Active Oceans that provides a positive experience for the program please contact care recipient. Active Oceans is funded by the the Active Oceans Department of Human Services ‘Respite Growth Coordinator Paul Initiatives’. Respite provides short-term and Lougheed at plougheed@ time-limited breaks for carers on a planned or mpower.org.au or phone emergency basis, to support and maintain the (03) 5561 8118. primary care giving relationship while providing Recreational a positive experience for the care recipient. opportunities on the 4. To develop ‘inclusive’ opportunities coast for people with a through the development of community disability are important partnerships. Active Oceans believes that for improved health people with a disability should be able to live and lifestyle.

 Community seagrass monitoring contributes to research By Bruce Atkin and Carolyn Munckton

Seagrass beds are an ecologically significant marine In a great spirit of co-operation, The People and habitat – they serve as nursery and breeding areas Parks Foundation, Parks Victoria, volunteers from and provide food and shelter for a vast range the Friends of the Prom, and Traralgon-based of marine life. Seagrasses also play a vital role in S.E.A.L. Diving Services are helping to monitor the binding and stabilising sediments. seagrass beds of Corner Inlet. Several seagrasses are found in Corner Inlet In mid 2005, The People and Parks Foundation and including Narrow-leaved seagrasses or Eelgrasses, Parks Victoria launched the Sea Search program (Zostera muelleri and Z. tasmanica), Paddle weed with co-sponsorship support from ExxonMobil. (Halophila australis)and, most significantly, extensive The program allows community groups and areas of Broad-leaved seagrass (Posidonia australis). volunteers to explore and learn about the diversity Posidonia australis is uncommon in Victoria and of marine plants and animals of Victoria’s Marine the meadows in Corner Inlet are well protected by National Parks and add to the scientific knowledge Corner Inlet Marine National Park and Corner Inlet of the parks through scientific monitoring. and Nooramunga Marine and Coastal Parks. Sea Search is run by The Parks and People Seagrass health is affected by a wide range of Foundation, a new not-for-profit independent natural and human disturbances and large areas organisation whose purpose is to promote have disappeared from Corner Inlet, particularly in community health by developing programs that the northern sections. Concern over the decline connect people to the natural environment. has led to two significant research projects. Protocols have been developed to guide Primary Industries Research Victoria (PIRVic) is community group monitoring, which means that midway through a three-year statewide monitoring data collected is compatible with the more detailed program with the aid of a grant from the Natural data collected by researchers and can be used to Heritage Trust. Three study sites were chosen – Port guide future management objectives for Marine Phillip Bay, Western Port and Corner Inlet and the National Parks and Marine Sanctuaries in Victoria. monitoring has a multi-faced approach. The intention Sea Search Project Officer, Rebecca Koss, explained is to monitor the status of seagrass across the bays that two monitoring sites have been established so through aerial photography and field sampling to far – one within Corner Inlet Marine National Park identify any changes in seagrass distribution and and one in the adjacent Corner Inlet Marine and health at both localised and regional scales. Coastal Park. “We are trying to determine the pattern of seagrass health in Corner Inlet in order to identify whether differences are natural or human influenced. So far we have noticed differences, but it is too early to know exactly what is causing them. With ongoing monitoring, including the establishment of more sites, we hope to be able to identify what is occurring and adapt management to suit,” said Rebecca. Visit www.seasearch.org.au for more information on community seagrass monitoring or contact the Sea Search Project Officer by email at [email protected]. For further information about the PIRVic seagrass monitoring see the project web page: http://www. dpi.vic.gov.au/dpi/vro/vrosite.nsf/pages/marine

 Summer by the Sea – Summer Activities Program 2007 By Erin Nash, Summer Activities Project Officer

Have you ever seen an elephant snail? How about the Mangroves’, and a traditional ‘Net-making a blobfish or a dog whelk? Do you know what Workshop’. Join in as many activities as you like, emerges from the ocean onto the shore after there’s something for everyone at your favourite dark? What interesting specimens live within Victorian beach, and most activities are free! wetlands or the brackish waters of estuaries? How This year’s theme is ‘Awareness into Action’. Many do marine creatures survive in rockpools? of the activities move beyond education and Plunge into this year’s Coast Action/Coastcare awareness, encouraging participants to become ‘Summer by the Sea’ activities program, and find involved in the management and conservation out for yourself! A whole new world and an of our coastal and marine environments. Join amazing diversity of marine life is waiting to be community groups in Apollo Bay, Lorne, Aireys discovered in our watery backyard … and you may Inlet, Anglesea, Point Addis and French Island even meet a Weedy Seadragon, Victoria’s marine in carrying out environmental works to help faunal emblem! protect these special places. Taking action as a community will help to safeguard the future of our This year’s program will run from the 3–21 January magnificent coastal zone for generations to come. at 70 locations along Victoria’s coastline – from Nelson in the west, through to Mallacoota in the Remember to be Sunsmart this summer – slip on a east. Children, families, teenagers, and adults are shirt, slop on some sunscreen, slap on a hat, slide invited to come and learn, participate, and be on some sunnies, and slurp up some water. Read inspired by Victoria’s unique and magical marine and heed the safety messages for each activity and coastal environments. and book early for those activities that require bookings. There are many ways to learn about and enjoy our coast – rockpool rambles, minibeast A complete list of all activities for ‘Summer by the safaris, sea-kayaking, surfing, snorkelling, and Sea’ 2007 can be found in the following pages. To sailing adventures, fishing clinics, nature walks, receive additional program brochures, contact your and marine and coastal wildlife displays and local Coast Action/Coastcare facilitator. You can presentations. New activities in the program this also visit out website under ‘Coasts and Marine’ at year include an informative ‘Dog’s Breakfast’, www.dse.vic.gov.au/coasts to find out more about an exploration of ‘Crabs and Critters Amongst Coast Action/Coastcare.

2007 by the sea Central South West BEACH THEATRE FUN p r o g r a m Friday 5 January, 7–7.45pmng of beach theatre for the a c t i v i t i e s AIREYS INLET ROCKPOOL RAMBLE Join us for a fun filled evenirious antics of our lovable beach summer whole family, with the hila MARINE SANCTUARY TWILIGHT e follow the Short-finned Eel’s the theatre characters as w Sea to the Anglesea River.s WYE RIVER Thursday 4 January, 6–8pm MBLE MAGIC and discover and experiencecky reefs journey from the South Coralhamper and meet on the gras FREE of charge. Bookings are not Join a Marine Park Ranger All activities are TWIGHLIGHT ROCKPOOL RA l creatures and plants on the ro his Pack your picnic rug and beach car park, Great Ocean Friday 5 January, 7–9pm unusual and beautifu required unless otherwise stated. e unusual and beautiful creatures Eagle Rock Marine Sanctuary.ear T next to the Anglesea mainf the Anglesea River. Discover and experience reef th exposed at low tide aroundmals exposed at low tide in theiew many animals that only app Road, near the mouth o UNITY DAY Remember to be Sunsmart – wear a hat, a shirt, and and plants on the rocky and is a rare opportunity to v footwear and sun protection a opportunity to view many ani ANGLESEA COAST ACTION 30pmCOMM sunscreen, and bring a drink. For walks, working Wye River. This is a rare sun has set. Sturdy footwear once the sun has set. Sturdyl, phone 5289 4100. 6 Saturday 6 January, 9.30–12. bees, and rambles, wear sturdy shoes and BYO insect that only appear once the kings essential, phone 523 must. Bookings essentia ironment and protect theion in repellent. An adult or guardian must accompany sun protection a must. Boo Come and help the localsion. env Join Anglesea Coast Act MYSTERIES OF THE30–9pm SEA dunes from weed inva eryone, finishing with a BBQt children under 6082. Friday 5 January, 7. C 0–9pm this hands-on activity for ev on 12 years old. Thursday 11 January, 7.3 d by the Great Ocean Road Coas ROCKPOOL RAMBLE MAGI–12pm ary, 7.30–9pm for participants provide provided. BYO sun protectis For more information about activities, contact Coast Tuesday 9 January, 10am Wednesday 17 Janu eat Ocean Road is home to a 4–6pm Committee. Tools and glovest the rear of the sand dune– look Thursday 18 January, The coastline along the Gr colourful marine creatures Action/Coastcare Facilitator Michael. Noelker on unusual and beautiful creatures e and sturdy footwear. Meet(opposite a the 4 Kings Shops) ne or 0417 109 448 vast array of spectacular and 5263 3712 Discover and experience reef the exposed at low tide around enlightening and interactiv ves. behind the main beach er. For more information pho and plants on the rocky and sun protection a must. and plants. Join us for an secrets hidden beneath the wareys for the Coast Action bann Wye River. Sturdy footwear 5236 6082. presentation highlightingat the entrance gates to the Ai Carl on 5263 2193. MARENGO GHT ROCKPOOL RAMBLE Bookings essential, phone BYO rug or chair. Meet ean Road, Aireys Inlet. Parking FISHCARE FISHING CLINIC MARINE SANCTUARY6–8pm TWILI Inlet Caravan Park, Great Oce Caravan Park. –12pm Sunday 7 January, 10amnds on fishing clinic, and learn Thursday 4 January, the CUMBERLAND RIVERC available at the front of th Friday 5 January, 7–9pm Come and join this fun, ha de from local fishing experts r and discover and experience efs ROCKPOOL RAMBLE MAGI BEACH THEATRE FUN 45pm Join a Marine Park Range and plants on the rocky re m–1pm tures some of the tricks of the tra line (if you have one), a rare Thursday 11 January, 11a Saturday 6 January, 7–7. unusual and beautiful creatures the unusual and beautiful crea ening of beach theatre for the from Fishcare. BYO rod or handrotection. Limited numbers.eds, efs Marine Sanctuary. Thisnce is the Discover and experience Join us for a fun filled ev antics of our lovable beach of the unique Marengo Re ef exposed at low tide arounda the covered footwear and sun p ny animals that only appear o and plants on the rocky re whole family, with the hilarious lk at the Anglesea River Boat Sh opportunity to view ma footwear and sun protection follow the Short-finned Eel’sek. Meet at the boardwa ad Bridge. ONAL ar and sun protection a must.40. Cumberland River. Sturdy ne 5263 1133. theatre characters as we sun has set. Sturdy footwe oral Sea to the Painkalac Cre north of the Great OceanTWAYS Ro (GREAT OTWAY NATI e 5237 6889 or 0400 170 0 must. Bookings essential, pho journey from the South C mper, and meet on the grass Bookings essential, phon let FRIENDS OF EASTERN O OL RAMBLE Pack your picnic rug and ateha Park, on the corner of In PARK) COMMUNITY DAY–11am MARINE SANCTUARY ROCKPO–12pm LORNE E MAGIC next to the Aireys Inlet Sk ean Road. Tuesday 9 January, 9.30 Tuesday 9 January, 10am Crescent and the Great Oc the regeneration of the coastal TWILIGHT ROCKPOOL RAMBL Come and help with in the Friends of the Eastern Thursday 18 January, 4–6pm res activity pm e the Thursday 4 January, 6–8pm FISHY ED SHED m heathland at Anglesea. ational Jo Park) in this hands on s. Friday 19 January, 5–7 the unusual and beautiful creatu nger and discover and experienc Discover and experience posed at low tide around the Monday 8 January, 10am–2pakes a fish a fish with oletouch Otways (Great Otway N a morning tea for participantrdy Join a Marine Park Ra atures and plants on the rocky Sturdy and plants on the rocky reefrtunity ex to view many animals Come and find out whatns and m give aways for the wh he for everyone, finishing with. BYO sun protection and stu unusual and beautiful cre o Reefs Marine Sanctuary. r and Lorne Pier. This is a rare oppo tanks, marine specime arine information available at t Tools and gloves provided es Road, Anglesea, opposite reefs of the unique Mareng a must. Bookings essential, he sun has set. Sturdy footwea 133. t that only appear once t family. Free coastal and m the Great Ocean Road Coas footwear. Meet at O’Donohurmation phone Margaret on footwear and sun protection kings essential, phone 5263 1 170 040. sun protection a must. Boo display. Brought to you by splay will be on the grass next Fifth Avenue. For more info phone 5237 6889 or 0400 C 5289 6326. ROCKPOOL RAMBLE MAGI Committee, the manneduse di car park, on the corner of ry, 10am–12pm to the Split Point Lightho l Street. APOLLO BAY Wednesday 10 Janua s ESTUARY DISCOVERY 12pm tuary Lighthouse Road and Federa AY Friday 12 January, 10am– TWILIGHT ESTUARY DISCOVERY Friday 19 January, 4–6pm unusual and beautiful creature beauty of the Anglesea River Es eauty Discover and experience the exposed at low tide around EAGLE ROCK DISCOVERY D Come and explore the scinating creatures that live sun booking contacts Saturday 6 January, 7–9pm t. am–2pm Coast Action/Coastcarenot to come and explore the b and plants on the rocky reefear and sun protection a mus Monday 8 January, 10 secrets of the small sea- l and discover some of thehe fasea. Old shoes are ideal, and Evenings are a great time iver Estuary. Join us and re Contact Details the Lorne Pier. Sturdy footwne 5263 1133. Drop in and discover the Marinemany Sanctuary. Marine Nationas and where the river meets t sential, phone 5263 1133. and mystery of the Barham R cinating creatures that live whe Bookings essential, pho haven that is Eagle Rockhand to answer any question ry. protection a must. Bookings es discover some of the fas shoes are ideal. Bookings Park Rangers will be on an be found in the Sanctua plit WONDERS OF THE DEEP30pm t Western Region the river meets the sea. Old . ESTUARY ‘DOCTORS’ –12pm ts provide information on what c Monday 8 January, 10am be on the grass next to the S Tuesday 16 January, 7–8. rwater discovery of the Poin essential, phone 5236 6082 unusual and amazing plan The interactive display will Please note these are Join us as we explore the Erskine River Estuary, Lorne. on the corner of Lighthouse Road Join us for an amazing unde environment. See new and AngleseaNoelker ss Point Lighthouse car park, dible 3712 WATERBUGS & BEASTIES10am–12pm d and animals found within the Addis Marine National Park Wednesday 10 January, y estuary ‘doctors’ as we asse and Federal Street. autiful sponge gardens and incre Michael 5263 se encounter with the weird an Learn techniques used b the help of scientific experts L RAMBLE unseen footage of be entary from Marine National 448 Join Waterwatch for a clo llan 03 109 that live in the Barham River. A the health of the estuary with MARINE SANCTUARY ROCKPOO 10am–12pm marine life, with expert comme Senior Citizens Hall, McMi Gippsland Region Tel: wonderful bugs and critters y footwear and sun protection 0417 the whole family. Old shoes are from EstuaryWatch. Sturd ay in advance, phone the Wednesday 10 January,6pm e Park Rangers. Meet at th ema). Mob: fun, hands-on activity for ust. Bookings essential one Street, Anglesea (near the cin [email protected]. a must. Bookings essential onen 0429 d 192 589. Thursday 18 January,ger 4– and discover and experienc RY Bairnsdale ideal, and sun protection isadette a m on 0418 145 818 or Join a Marine Park Ran Forster 0439 Email: EstuaryWatch Coordinator o creatures and plants on thene TWILIGHT ESTUARY DISCOVE8pm day in advance, phone Bern. the unusual and beautiful eauty Glen 5152 MYSTERIES OF THE SEA tide in the Eagle Rock Mari Thursday 18 January, e6– to come and explore the b Important Reminderswhen 03 343 gov.au Deirdre on 0408 526 113 –9pm a rocky reefs exposed at low nd sun protection a must. Tel: 357 Tuesday 9 January, 7.30eat Ocean Road is home to Evenings are a great tim a River estuary and discover FISHCARE FISHING CLINIC12pm earn Sanctuary. Sturdy footwear 5289 a 4100. and mystery of the Anglese 0408 The coastline along the Gr colourful marine creaturese ive where the river meets the activities Mob: Warrnambool 2007 Friday 12 January, 10am–hands-on fishing clinic, and l Bookings essential, phone some of the creatures that lne 5263 1133. Have great fun this summer while learning vast array of spectacular and [email protected] Amor 9955 Come and join this fun, from local fishing experts enlightening and interactiv ves. some apply. and plants. Join us for an s hidden beneath the wa BEACH DETECTIVES 11.30pm sea. Bookings essential, pho for so E-mail: John 5561 some of the tricks of the trade more about how to care for 189 hand line (if you have one), presentation highlighting secret Friday 12 January, 10am–rence. Finding clues along the risk, 03 976 from Fishcare. BYO rod or rotection. Limited numbers. at the Queens Park Hall in the numbers Tel: BYO rug or chair. Meet An investigation with a diffe about the ocean and discover POINT ADDIS required own start Yarram 0429 covered footwear and sun p Park, Armytage Street, Lorne. GHT ROCKPOOL our coast andare marine environment. Atkin 9116 r. Queens Park Caravan beach, we unravel secretsaudience primary school age. your at the Mob: [email protected] Meet at the Apollo Bay Pie MMUNITY DAY MARINE NATIONAL PARK TWILI minimum at Bruce 5183 LORNECARE ERSKINE RIVER CO who eats whom! Target a must. Bookings essential, RAMBLE and 142 E-mail: BEACH THEATRE FUN ry, 9am–12pm Footwear and sun protection • Bookings given 03 842 –7.45pm Wednesday 10 Janua Friday 5 January, 6–8pm pm attended Tel: Saturday 13 January, 7 f beach theatre for the 9am–12pm t phone 5263 1133. ts 0429 Wednesday 24 January, Saturday 20 January, 6–8beautiful creatures and plan are place Join us for a fun filled evening o your holiday environment. Mee maximum messages Mob: rious antics of our lovable beach Come and learn about kills from volunteers from EEL ADVENTURES .30pm ing Discover the unusual and low tide in the Point Addis [email protected] whole family, with the hila ck ng activities safety summere follow the Short-finned Eel’s new friends and learn newke s environmental works alo Saturday 13 January,al 5–6 significance of one of our amaznd of the rocky reef exposedhis atis a rare opportunity to view dy meeting E-mail: theatre characters as w Sea to the Barham River. Pa xt to Lornecare as they underta cean Road Coast Committee Learn about the cultur nned Eel. Lots of fun games a Marine National Park. T ar once the sun has set. Stur • All follow and Melbourne Head journey from the South Coral ry l, an er and meet on the grass ne the Erskine River. The Great O for participants. Everyone local creatures, the Short-fi reek. Target audience prima many animals that only appeon a must. Bookings essentia by your picnic rug and hamp tion please location ffice will provide a free BBQ lunch provided. BYO sun protec activities on the Painkalacssential, C phone 5263 1133. footwear and sun protecti activity. the Port Phillip Region o Clancy the Apollo Bay Surf Club. S DAY Care each Co-ordinator by the welcome, gloves and toolset on the banks of the Erskine school age. Bookings e phone 5263 1133. RKEL of provided. Catherine APOLLO BAY FORESHOREm–12.30pm FRIEND and sturdy footwear. Me accompanied Box Hill at Ocean Road Bridge and n, ESTUARY DOCTORS 10am–12pm d MARINE NATIONAL PARK–12pm SNO booking, be be Cox Program 9742 Sunday 14 January, 10a nment and protect the River, upstream of the Gre ottages. For more informatio will 4532 tion/Coast ds Tuesday 16 January, nusual and amazing plants ysan Sunday 7 January, 10amry, 4–6pm shirt, Denis 9296 State 9637 Come and help the localaC enviroweed invasion. Join the Frien opposite the Erskine River C • Upon MUST a 050 161 ion 891 886. Join us as we explore thee Painkalacu Creek Estuary, Aire Wednesday 17 Janua to experience first hand the 12 on 03 564 Apollo Bay Foreshore from phone Michael on 0408 over activities 03 958 Tel: Coast ore and Apollo Bay Coast Act animals found within th by estuary ‘doctors’ as we This is a unique opportunityis Marine National Park. Disc slip on Tel: 0400 ofB they Apollo Bay Foresh tific for under – 0409 activities programeryone, finishing with a BYOfree FISHCARE FISHING CLINIC Inlet. Learn techniques used wonders of the Point Add ul fish, sponges and seaweeds slide Mob: in this hands-on activity for ev m–12pm rn estuary with the help of scien Mob: catherine.clancy@dse. ts. Gloves and tools provided. Thursday 11 January, 10a assess the health of the urdy footwear and sun a whole new world of colourfWetsuits and snorkelling and [email protected] BBQ lunch for participan hands on fishing clinic, and learts e, Sunsmart and E-mail: ootwear. Meet on the foreshore Come and join this fun, experts from EstuaryWatch. Stessential one day in advanc with qualified instructors. • Children guardian.be a hat E-mail sun protection and sturdy f trade from local fishing expe 9. Not suitable for children under 10 or water ice Station. For more information some of the tricks of the protection a must. Bookings equipment provided. ial, phone 5263 1133. on Brought to you opposite the Mobil Serv r hand line (if you have one),rs. h Coordinator on 0429 192 58 adult of vic.gov.au from Fishcare. BYO rod o phone the EstuaryWatc years old. Bookings essent activities, slap phone Gary on 0419 301 311. sun protection. Limited numbe OMMUNITY DAY KPOOL RAMBLE bottle Wierzbowski4525 covered footwear, and day a a Phillip 9296 FRIENDS OF MOGGS CREEK1am C unes MARINE NATIONAL PARK–12pm ROC 815 Program ESTUARY DISCOVERY Meet at the Lorne Pier. • For sunscreen,Carry Nash , 4–6pm Sunday 21 January, 9.30–1nvironment and protect the dhis Tuesday 9 January, 10amm l 03 409 Erin Activities Wednesday 17 January on repellent, Tel: uty and mystery of the Barham FISHY ED SHED Come and help the local e e Friends of Moggs Creek in t or Friday 19 January, 5–7p Ranger and discover the unusua slop 0411 Come and explore the bea m–2pm ed Summer some of the fascinating creatures sun Saturday 13 January, 10a from weed invasion. Join thne, finishing with morning tean f Join a Marine National Park plants of the rocky reef expos sunglasses. insect Mob: Officer River Estuary and discover m–2pm footwear. phillip.wierzbowski@dse. 4237 ts the sea. Old shoes are ideal, Saturday 20 January, 10a hands-on activity for everyos provided. BYO sun protectio and beautiful creatures andis Marine National Park. Sturdy bring be Project 9412 that live where the river mee akes a fish a fish with touch some may E-mail: s essential, phone 5236 6082. Come and find out what m participants. Tools and gloveat the water tank in Old Coach at low tide in the Point Addn a must. Bookings essential, sensible 03 protection is a must. Booking and give aways for the whole he ret wear activities, there vic.gov.au Tel: [email protected] tanks, marine specimens arine information available att t and sturdy footwear. Meetore information phone Marga footwear and sun protectio clothing. where E-mail: family. Free coastal and m the Great Ocean Road Coasr. Road, Moggs Creek. For m phone 5289 4100. evening however, KENNETT RIVER GIC display. Brought to you bysplay will be at the Lorne Pie on 5289 6326. warm GeelongMoore FOSSIL SAFARI .30am–12.30pm • For free, activities 4669 TWILIGHT ROCKPOOL RAMBLEm MA s Committee, the manned di MMUNITY DAY Wednesday 10 January, 10–1pm and are Dianne 5226 Thursday 4 January, 6–8p some involved. e unusual and beautiful creature LORNECARE STONY CREEKam–12pm CO ANGLESEA Sunday 14 January, 11am torch for is that 03 Discover and experience th ew Point Tel: ef exposed at low tide around Wednesday 17 January,r 9holiday environment. Meet n as FISHY ED SHED –2pm Tuesday 16 January, 1–3pmver ancient marine fossils at e activities hire shoes [email protected]. and plants on the rocky re opportunity to view many Come and learn about youls from volunteers from Lornecarek. Monday 1 January, 10amakes a fish a fish with touch Go back in time and discork. Make your own fossil whil charged Kennett River. This is a rare ce the sun has set. Sturdy • Most E-mail: friends and learn new skil Come and find out what m he Addis Marine National Pa story of Point Addis. Bookings fee sensible animals that only appear on tal works along the Stony Cree and give aways for the whole equipment n a must. Bookings essential, they undertake environmen Committee will provide a free tanks, marine specimens arine information available at t investigating the natural hi . small wear gov.au footwear and sun protectio t a other The Great Ocean Road Coastveryone welcome, gloves and et family. Free coastal and m the Great Ocean Road Coas essential, phone 5263 1133 or weather phone 5236 6082. INE NATIONAL PARK rambles, and BBQ lunch for participants. Ection and sturdy footwear.. ForMe display. Brought to you bysplay will be at the Anglesea FRIENDS OF POINT ADDIS MAR boats fire ROCKPOOL RAMBLE MAGIC0am–12pm tools provided. BYO sun prote just off the Great Ocean Road Committee, the manned di ean Road, Anglesea. thongs. tures COMMUNITY DAY 2.30pm r rockpool not are Wednesday 10 January, 1 at the Stony Creek car parkichael on 0408 891 886. Riverbank Market, Great Oc – occur. he unusual and beautiful crea Friday 12 January, 10am–1ddis Marine National Park fo d Discover and experience tef exposed at low tide around . more information, phone M • For wet may BEACH DETECTIVES 5.30pm he Join the Friends of Point Aies including guided walks anoint activities and plants on the rocky re ear and sun protection a must get BEACH DETECTIVES Thursday 4 January, 4–ifference. Finding clues along t a series of hands on activit eet at the end car park at P can that Kennett River. Sturdy footw –5.30pm he r 5236 6082. Thursday 18 January, 4 An investigation with a d bout the ocean and discove coastal protection works. Mn, phone Lynn on 5261 6880. note cancellations Bookings essential, phone ifference. Finding clues along rt and An investigation with a d bout the ocean and discove beach, we unravel secrets adience primary school age. Addis. For more informatio • Please WATERBUGS & BEASTIES0am–12pm nd beach, we unravel secrets adience primary school age. who eats whom! Target au a must. Bookings essential, permitting Wednesday 17 January,e 1 encounter with the weird a fun, who eats whom! Target au a must. Bookings essential, Footwear and sun protection Join Waterwatch for a closs that live in our waterways. A, Footwear and sun protection phone 5263 1133. wonderful bugs and critter ole family. Old shoes are ideal phone 5263 1133. hands-on activity for the whookings essential one day in n and sun protection a must. Bn 0418 145 818 or Deirdre o advance, phone Bernadette o 0408 526 113. ural Heritage Trust Central South West Environment and the Nat of Sustainability and are, the Department by Coast Action/Coastc is brought to you ea Activities Program The Summer by the S

10 2007 summer by the sea a c t i v i t i e s p r o g r a m

WATERWATCH MINIBEAST SAFARI AT BRIDGEWATER LAKES FAR SOUTH WEST Wednesday 10 January, 10–11am Activities are FREE unless Hunt for minibeasts in the underworld of the Bridgewater equipment is required Lakes. This area provides homes for many tiny critters. Learn (e.g. canoes, surfboards or how to catch and identify these important water bugs that can snorkelling gear). Please note inform us of the present health of the lakes. Meet at the boat carefully which activities require ramp. For further information phone 0438 376 556. a booking to be made. TAI CHI BY THE SEA Remember to be Sunsmart at Thursday 11 January, 12–1pm all daytime activities – wear a hat, sunscreen, and shirt, and bring a drink. Children under 12 must be accompanied by Get as close as it gets to the soothing surf and learn to care an adult. Most activities are suitable for people with varying for it through the moving meditation of Tai Chi by the sea. abilities. Please notify us when you book so as to discuss any Meet at the Bridgewater Beach Cafe. For further information special needs. phone 5565 9358 or 0408 106 650. For more information about activities contact Coast Action/ COASTCARE BEACH FUN & GAMES Coastcare Facilitator John Amor on 5561 9955 or Thursday 11 January, 2–3.30pm 0429 976 189, visit the ‘Activity Pavilion’ at Lake Pertobe, or What life lives on, in and around our beaches? Learn how to call into the Visitor Information Centre in Port Campbell. help care for our coast and its’ critters while enjoying a range of beach games and activities. Bookings essential, phone SUMMER BY THE SEA LAUNCH Absolute Outdoors on 5521 7646. Sunday 7 January, 11am–2pm COAST ACTION – SURF ACTION Join us for the start of a happy coastal New Year at the Tuesday 16 January, 10–11.30am Community Market at Port Campbell (opposite the ‘Parks Victoria’ office in Lord Street) and find out what is being Learn surfing, Coastcaring, and your responsibilities to the offered in the program this January. Come along and coastal environment. BYO towel and some warm clothes. enjoy some whacky, zany, coastal ‘edutainment’ with ‘Vox All equipment is provided (own wetsuits welcome). Bookings Bandicoot’ fresh from The Melbourne Comedy Festival!! essential, phone Easyrider Surf School on 5521 7646. Activity Shows at 11.30am and 1pm, then relax with Tai Chi at 2pm. is weather dependent. Activity cost $10 per person. COAST ACTION-SEA KAYAK ACTION NELSON Tuesday 16 January, 3–4.30pm COASTCARING KAYAKING Join us in the surf and sea of beautiful Bridgewater Bay. Learn Friday 19 January, 11.30am–1pm more about this fantastic coastal and marine environment. Explore the stunning Glenelg estuary by kayak. Learn how Wear old clothes and shoes that can get wet. Bring a towel these wonderful mixing bowls between the ocean and and change of clothes. Bookings essential, phone Easy Rider freshwater work. Discover the plants, animals and birds of the Surf School on 5521 7646. Activity cost $10 per person. estuary environment. Wear some old clothes and shoes that can get wet! Bring a towel and a change of clothes. Bookings Portland essential, phone Absolute Outdoors on 5521 7646. Activity is WATERWATCH MINIBEAST SAFARI weather dependent. Activity cost $10 per person. Friday 5 January, 3–4pm Hunt for minibeasts in the underworld of Portland’s Wetlands. Bridgewater The coastal wetlands of the area provide homes for many LIFE ON THE ROCKY SHORES OF THE DISCOVERY BAY tiny critters. Learn how to catch and identify these important MARINE NATIONAL PARK water inhabitants. Meet at the shelter at Fawthrop Lagoon. Friday 5 January, 5.30–7pm For further information phone 0438 376 556. Wednesday 10 January, 9.45–11.30am KAYAK AMONGST THE LAGOON LIFE Thursday 11 January, 9.45–11.30am Friday 5 January, 12–1.30pm Monday 15 January, 11am–12.30pm Wednesday 17 January, 9–10.30am Tuesday 16 January 12.30–2pm Fawthrop Lagoon is home to many plant and animal species. Join a Parks Victoria Marine Parks Ranger for a tour of the Discover the birds and plants of this estuarine environment wonders of the Discovery Bay Marine National Park. Discover while you learn how to care for them. Wear some old clothes how living creatures adapt to survive the harsh intertidal and shoes that can get wet! Bring a towel and a change of life. Learn who eats who in this alien world! Fun for all ages. clothes. Bookings essential, phone Absolute Outdoors on Bookings essential, phone 5522 3452 or 0437 880 952. 5521 7646. Activity is weather dependent. Activity cost $10 KAYAK BETWEEN THE PARKS per person. Monday 8 January, 4.30–6pm KAYAK & SNORKEL AMONGST THE SEA LIFE Experience the Bridgewater Lakes by kayak at this unique time Saturday 6 January, 9–10:30am of day. This Lake, situated between the Discovery Bay Marine Discover some of the fascinating marine life and history National Park and Discovery Bay Coastal Park, is a unique and that lurks in the waters beneath Portland Harbour and learn beautiful place. Wear some old clothes and shoes that can what you can do to protect it. All equipment supplied. Wear get wet! Bring a towel and a change of clothes. Bookings some old clothes and shoes that can get wet! BYO towel essential, phone Absolute Outdoors on 5521 7646. Activity is and a change of clothes. Bookings essential, phone Absolute weather dependent. Activity cost $10 per person. Outdoors on 5521 7646. Activity is weather dependent. Activity cost $10 per person.

 HOOK, LINE & SINKER COASTCARE KIDS Friday 12 January, 10am–12pm Monday 8 January, 1.30–3pm Join Fishcare South West volunteers for some angling advice Monday 15 January, 10am–12pm and tips on caring for your catch. BYO rod, tackle and hat; bait What life lives on our beaches? Join in the beach games and will be supplied. Participants under 15 must be accompanied activities. Learn how to help care for our coast and its’ critters. by an adult. Meet at the Portland Maritime Discovery Centre. Meet at ‘Pea Soup’ carpark. For further information phone 0437 350 217. NARRAWONG TO YAMBUK BEACH DETECTIVES WATERWATCH MINIBEAST SAFARI Monday 8 January, 4–5.30pm Friday 5 January, 10–11am Tuesday 16 January, 10am–12pm Hunt for minibeasts in the underworld of the Fitzroy River. Solve the mysteries of the intertidal in the sand beneath The coastal wetlands of the area provide homes for many your feet. Help collect the evidence by plaster casting the tiny critters. Learn how to catch and identify these important creatures’ footprints. Fun for all ages! Meet at ‘Pea Soup’ water inhabitants. Meet at the boat ramp/jetty at the end of carpark. For further information phone Thompsons Road. For further information phone 0438 376 556. 0437 350 217. WATERWATCH MINIBEAST SAFARI HOOK, LINE & SINKER Thursday 9 January, 3–4pm Wednesday 10 January, 10am–12pm Hunt for minibeasts in the underworld of the Yambuk Lakes. Join Fishcare South West volunteers for some angling advice The wetlands of the area provide homes for many tiny critters. and tips on caring for your catch. BYO rod, tackle and hat; Learn how to catch and identify any water inhabitants that bait will be supplied. Meet at Martins Point on the Moyne can inform us of the present health of the lakes. Meet at the River. boat ramp. For further information phone 0438 376 556. TWILIGHT AMONGST THE RIVER LIFE WATERWATCH MINIBEAST SAFARI Wednesday 10 January, 7–8pm Monday 15 January, 3–4pm Witness the end of a long summer’s day from the seat of a Hunt for minibeasts in the underworld of the Surry River. The kayak. Discover the movement of river life as the day fades. coastal wetlands of the area provide homes for many tiny Wear some old clothes and shoes that can get wet! BYO critters. Learn how to catch and identify any water inhabitants towel and a change of clothes. Bookings essential, phone that can inform us of the present health of the river. Meet at Absolute Outdoors on 5521 7646. Activity is weather the Park Office. For further information phone 0438 376 556. dependent. Activity cost $10 per person. KAYAK THE SURRY RIVER COAST ACTION – SURF ACTION Monday 15 January, 4–5.30pm Wednesday 10 January, 4–5.30pm Explore the Surry River estuary by kayak. Have some fun Learn surfing, Coastcaring and your responsibilities to the discovering the estuarine environment and learning how to coastal environment. Bring a towel and some warm clothes. care for it. Wear some old clothes and shoes that can get All equipment is provided (own wetsuits welcome). Bookings wet! BYO towel and a change of clothes. Bookings essential, essential, phone Easyrider Surf School on 5521 7646. Activity phone Absolute Outdoors on 5521 7646. Activity is weather is weather dependent. Activity cost $10 per person. dependent. Activity cost $10 per person. TAI CHI BY THE SEA PORT FAIRY Wednesday 10 January, 11am–12pm & 2–3pm WATERWATCH MINIBEAST SAFARI Get as close as it gets to the soothing surf and learn to care Thursday 4 January, 3–4pm for it through the moving meditation of Tai Chi by the sea. Thursday 11 January, 3–4pm Meet out the front of the Surf Life Saving Club. For further Hunt for minibeasts in the underworld of the Port Fairy information phone 5565 9358 or 0408 106 650. Wetlands. The coastal wetlands of the area provide homes COAST ACTION – SAILING ACTION for many tiny critters. Learn how to catch and identify these Thursday 11 January, 10–11.30am important water inhabitants. Meet at the picnic ground in Learn about Coastcaring and your responsibilities to the Russell Clark reserve off James Street. For further information coastal environment while aboard one of our easy to sail phone 0438 376 556. sailing boats. All equipment is provided. Wear some old TWILIGHT ROCKPOOL RAMBLE clothes and shoes that can get wet! BYO towel and a change Sunday 7 January, 6.30–8pm of clothes. Bookings essential, phone Easyrider Surf School on Discover some of the creatures that emerge from their 5521 7646. Activity is weather dependent. Activity cost $15 rockpool hiding places as night falls. BYO torch. Bookings per person. essential, phone 0437 350 217. CARING FOR THE COAST CONCERT SHEARWATERS AT SUNSET Thursday 11 January, 4–5pm Sunday 7 January, 8.45–10pm A high-energy concert for all ages at the Port Fairy Surf Life Sunday 14 January, 8.45–10pm Saving Club. Come along and hear, see, sing and dance. Learn about our coastal and marine environments to the Sunday 21 January, 8.45–10pm sounds of the Paul Kelly of the underage music scene Let your spirit soar with the return of the Shearwaters at – childrens’ singer/songwriter Barry Peters. Meet out front of sunset; learn of the incredible journey of the birds. Visit Surf Life Saving Club. Victoria’s largest colony of Short-tailed Shearwaters and discover their precision, biological and ecological secrets. BYO torch. Meet at the rotunda, Griffiths Island carpark. ii LIFE ON THE ROCKY SHORE SUMMER BY THE SEA @THE SUMMER MARKETS Monday 15 January, 1–3pm Friday 5 January, 6.30–8pm Everyone will delight at all the living creatures found on the Friday 12 January, 6.30–8pm rocky shores along the coast. Discover the intricacies & special Friday 19 January, 6.30–8pm adaptations of the creatures of this intertidal world. Fun for all Drop into the Lake Pertobe Markets and find out about Coast ages. Bookings essential, phone 0437 350 217. Action/Coastcare – meet some of the Warrnambool Coastcare WATERWATCH MINIBEAST SAFARI Landcare volunteers, and pick up your free ‘Summer by the Thursday 18 January, 10–11am Sea’ activities program. Hunt for minibeasts from the underworld of the Port Fairy CARING FOR THE COAST CONCERTS Wetlands. The coastal wetlands of the area provide homes Friday 5 January, from 6.30pm for many tiny critters. Learn how to catch and identify these Friday 12 January, from 6.30pm important water inhabitants. Meet at King George Square. For A high energy concert for all ages at the Summer by the Sea further information phone 0438 376 556. @ the Summer Markets. Come along and hear, see, sing and Killarney dance at Lake Pertobe. Learn about our coastal and marine LIFE ON THE ROCKY SHORE environments to the sounds of the Paul Kelly of the underage Monday 8 January, 10am–12pm music scene – childrens’ singer/songwriter Barry Peters. Everyone will delight at all the living creatures found on the BEACH DETECTIVES rocky shores along the coast. Discover the intricacies & special Sunday 7 January, 1.30–3pm adaptations of the creatures of this intertidal world. Fun for all Solve the mysteries of the intertidal in the sand beneath your ages. Bookings essential, phone 0437 350 217. feet. Help collect the evidence by plaster casting the creatures’ KAYAK & SNORKEL AMONGST THE SEA LIFE footprints. Fun for all ages! Meet at the ‘Activity Pavilion’, Tuesday 9 January, 10.30am–12.30pm Lake Pertobe. For further information phone 0437 350 217. Experience this unique area by kayaking and snorkelling. Wear HOOK, LINE & SINKER some old clothes and shoes that can get wet! BYO towel Monday 8 January, 10am–12pm and a change of clothes. Bookings essential, phone Absolute Join Fishcare South West volunteers for some angling advice Outdoors 5521 7646. Activity is weather dependent. Activity and tips on caring for your catch. BYO rod, tackle and hat; bait cost $15 per person. supplied. Meet near the boat ramp at the end of Stanley Street, TAI CHI BY THE SEA near Edwards Bridge, opposite Port Warrnambool Village. Tuesday 9 January, 1–2pm LIFE ON THE ROCKY SHORES OF THE MERRI MARINE SANCTUARY Get as close as it gets to the soothing surf and learn to care Tuesday 9 January, 9.30–11.30am for it through the moving meditation of Tai Chi by the sea. Friday 12 January, 10.30am–12.30pm Meet at the Cricket Club pavilion. For further information Tuesday 16 January, 1–3pm phone 5565 9358 or 0408 106 650. Come on a journey of discovery with Parks Victoria Marine COAST CARE KIDS Rangers and learn about the amazing creatures that inhabit the Tuesday 9 January, 4–6pm rocky reefs & rock pools in the Merri Marine Sanctuary. Find out What life lives on our beaches? Join in the beach games and about or join the Sanctuary Friends group. Please wear suitable activities. Learn how to help care for our coast and its’ critters. footwear. Bookings essential, phone 5598 6089. Meet at the Cricket pavilion in the camping ground. For further TWILIGHT KAYAK AMONGST THE RIVER LIFE information phone 0437 350 217. Tuesday 9 January, 7–8pm TWILIGHT ROCKPOOL RAMBLE The Merri River is home to many plant and animal species. Tuesday 16 January, 7–8.30pm Discover the birds and plants of this estuarine environment at Discover some of the creatures that emerge from their this unique time of day. Wear some old clothes and shoes that rock pool hiding places as night falls. BYO torch. Bookings can get wet! BYO towel and a change of clothes. Bookings essential, phone 0437 350 217. essential, phone Absolute Outdoors 5521 7646. Activity is weather dependent. Activity cost $10 per person. Warrnambool TAI CHI BY THE SEA WATERWATCH MINIBEAST SAFARI Friday 12 January, 11am–12pm Thursday 4 January, 10am–12pm Get as close as it gets to the soothing surf and learn to care Thursday 11 January, 10am–12pm for it through the moving meditation of Tai Chi by the sea. Thursday 18 January, 10am–12pm Meet at Stingray Bay, Merri Marine Sanctuary. For further Hunt for minibeasts in the underworld of the Lake Pertobe information phone 5565 9358 or 0408 106 650. Wetlands. The coastal wetlands of the area provide homes for many tiny critters. BYO nets and learn how to catch MERRI MARINE SANCTUARY SNORKEL TOUR and identify these important water inhabitants. Meet at the Friday 12 January, 11am–12pm ‘Activity Pavilion’, Lake Pertobe. Tuesday 16 January, 11am–12pm COAST ACTION – SURF ACTION Saturday 20 January, 11am–12pm Thursday 4 January, 1.30–3pm Come on a tour of the Merri Marine Sanctuary with accredited Learn surfing, Coastcaring and your responsibilities to the instructors and search for some of the amazing animals of this coastal environment. BYO towel and warm clothes. All sanctuary. Find out about or join the Sanctuary Friends group. equipment is provided (own wetsuits welcome). Bookings BYO mask, fins and snorkel. Hire gear available. Bookings essential, phone Easyrider Surf School on 5521 7646. Activity essential, phone the Shipwreck Coast Dive Inn 5561 6108. is weather dependent. Activity cost $10 per person. Activity cost $5 per person.

iii KAYAK THE MERRI RIVER ESTUARY Peterborough Friday 12 January 4–5.30pm LIFE ON THE ROCKY SHORE Explore the Merri River estuary by kayak. Have some fun Thursday 4 January, 4.30–6pm discovering the estuarine environment, its’ plants and animals. Saturday 6 January, 6–7.30pm Wear some old clothes and shoes that can get wet! BYO towel and a change of clothes. Bookings essential, phone Wednesday 17 January, 3.30–5pm Absolute Outdoors 5521 7646. Activity is weather dependent. Thursday 18 January, 4.30–6pm Activity cost $10 per person. Friday 19 January, 5–6.30pm CATCHMENT TO SANCTUARY Come on a journey of discovery with Parks Victoria Marine Saturday 13 January, 9am–1.30pm Rangers and learn about the amazing creatures that inhabit Explore the Merri River and Marine Sanctuary by kayak, foot the rocky reefs within the Bay of Islands Coastal Park. Steep and snorkel with experienced guides. Learn some new skills access, please wear suitable footwear. Bookings essential, and have some fun discovering the marine and estuarine phone 5598 6089. environment. Find out about or join the Sanctuary Friends A DOGS BREAKFAST! group. Wear old clothes and shoes that can get wet! BYO towel Saturday 6 January, 7.30–9am and change of clothes. Bookings essential, phone Absolute Bring along ‘man’s best friend’ to a special breakfast. Find out Outdoors 5521 7646. Activity weather dependent. Activity cost more about dogs on beaches-why ,why not ,when, where $15 per person. etc. FREE breakfast for Dogs and Humans!! Special guest: COASTCARE KIDS Grainne Maguire from ‘Birds Australia’. Meet at the children’s Saturday 13 January, 3–4.30pm playground near the tennis courts (all dogs on leash please!). What life lives on our beaches? Join in the beach games and For further information phone 5598 6089. activities. Learn how to help care for our coast and its’ critters. COAST KIDS Meet at the ’Activity Pavilion’, Lake Pertobe. For further Monday 8 January, 10.30am–12pm information phone 0437 350 217. Monday 15 January, 10.30am–12pm TWILIGHT BY SEA KAYAK Coastal games and fun on the beach. Meet at the children’s Sunday 14 January, 7–8pm playground at the mouth of the Curdies River. For further Witness the end of a long summer’s day from the seat of a sea information phone 5598 6089. kayak. Discover the movement of coastal and marine life as TAI CHI BY THE SEA the day fades. Wear some old clothes and shoes that can get Monday 8 January 2–3pm wet! BYO towel and a change of clothes. Bookings essential, Get as close as it gets to the soothing surf. Learn how to care phone Absolute Outdoors on 5521 7646. Activity is weather for it through the moving meditation of Tai Chi. Meet near the dependent. Activity cost $10 per person. children’s playground at the mouth of the Curdies River. For FORESHORE BIKE RIDE further information phone 5565 9358 or 0408 106 650. Sunday 14 January, 5–6.30pm Learn about the geological and cultural history of PorT CAMPBELL Warrnambool’s coastline from the Yacht Club to the Hopkins WALKING YOGA River. Wear comfortable clothing. Bookings essential, phone Thursday 4 January, 11am–12.30pm 0437 350 217. Activity is weather dependant. Activity cost See, hear, smell and learn about the natural world in a $15 per person. different way. Take a relaxing coastal walk with a Yoga MAHOGANY WALK RAMBLE master. Join us for the “the path travelled” rather than the Monday 15 January, 4.30–6pm destination. Meet at the western most carpark, Loch Ard Gorge area. For further information phone 5598 6089. Walk into the world of the Thunder Point Coastal Reserve. Discover its’ plants, animals, food, rich history and culture. SHEARWATERS AT DUSK Meet at the Thunder Point car park. For more information Thursday 4 January, 8.45–10pm phone 0437 350 217. Experience the amazing sight of the Shearwaters returning to MAHOGANY TRAIL BIKE RIDE their nests on-mass and hear about the birds’ epic journey of Tuesday 16 January, 4–5.30pm migration from local Park Rangers. BYO torch. Meet at the Muttonbird Island viewing platform, Loch Ard Gorge, Port Discover the dynamic dunes and carved coastline of this area Campbell National Park. For further information phone from your bicycle seat, learning as you peddle along. Wear 5598 6089. suitable clothes and shoes. Bookings essential, phone 0437 350 217. Activity is weather dependant. Activity cost $15 per WATERWATCH MINIBEAST SAFARI person. Friday 5 January, 10–11.30am LIFE ON THE ROCKY SHORES OF THE MERRI MARINE SANCTUARY Hunt for minibeasts in the underworld of the Port Campbell Sunday 21 January, 6.30–8pm Creek. The coastal wetlands of the area provide homes for many tiny critters. BYO nets and learn how to catch and Everyone will delight at all the living creatures found on the identify these important water inhabitants. Meet at the rocky shores along the coast. Discover the intricacies & special Visitors Information Centre. For further information phone adaptations of the creatures of this intertidal world. Fun for all Brenda on 0428 161 173. ages. Bookings essential, phone 0437 350 217.

iv CAMPFIRE NIGHT TWO MILE MAGIC Friday 5 January, 7.30–9.30pm Saturday 20 January, 5–7pm Bring the whole family for a night of fun including a talk on Take a walk with an Indigenous guide to this place of special beach nesting birds by Dr Grainne Maguire of ‘Birds Australia’. cultural significance. Discover plants, animals and geology, on BYO rug or chair, and a mug for billy tea and damper. Meet our way to exploring the rock platforms. Steep track, wear next to the Parks Victoria office. For further information phone suitable footwear. For further information phone 5598 6089. 5598 6089. PRINCETOWN SUMMER BY THE SEA LAUNCH Sunday 7 January, 11am–2pm KAYAK AMONGST THE RIVER LIFE Sunday 14 January, 10–11.30am Join us for the start of a happy coastal New Year at the Community Market at Port Campbell (opposite the Parks Discover the unique animal and plant life of the beautiful Victoria office in Lord Street) and find out what is being Gellibrand River Estuary from a kayak. Wear old clothes and offered in the program this January. Come along and enjoy shoes that can get wet. BYO towel and change of clothes. some whacky, zany, coastal ‘edutainment’ with Vox Bandicoot Bookings essential, phone Absolute Outdoors 5521 7646. -fresh from the Melbourne Comedy Festival!! Shows at 11.30 Activity is weather dependent. Activity cost $10 per person. am and 1pm, then relax with Tai Chi at 2pm. TAI CHI BY THE SEA CENTRAL SOUTH Monday 8 January, 10–11am Get as close as it gets to the soothing surf. Learn how to WEST care for it through the moving meditation of Tai Chi. Meet All activities are FREE of in front of the Port Campbell Surf Life Saving Club. For more charge. Bookings are not information phone 5565 9358 or 0408 106 650. required unless otherwise ‘MYTHS AND MONSTERS OF THE DEEP’!!!!! stated. Monday 8 January, from 8pm Remember to be Sunsmart Come along and laugh as you learn with Reg Lipson (the – wear a hat, a shirt, and sunscreen, and bring a drink. For man described as a cross between Jacques Cousteau and walks, working bees, and rambles, wear sturdy shoes and Benny Hill) when he presents an illustrated talk on ‘Myths and BYO insect repellent. An adult or guardian must accompany Monsters of the Deep’. Meet at the Port Campbell Surf Life children under 12 years old. Saving Club. For more information phone 5598 6089. For more information about activities, contact Coast Action/ SCULPTURED COAST SCENIC BOAT TOUR & SNORKEL Coastcare Facilitator Michael Noelker on 5263 3712 or Tuesday 9 January, 11.30am–1pm 0417 109 448. Thursday 11 January, 11.30am–1pm Tuesday 16 January, 11.30am–1pm MARENGO Thursday 18 January, 11.30am–1pm MARINE SANCTUARY TWILIGHT ROCKPOOL RAMBLE Marvel at the majestic Port Campbell coastline, and if Thursday 4 January, 6–8pm conditions allow, snorkel around Muttonbird Island in the Friday 5 January, 7–9pm Twelve Apostles Marine National Park. If possible, BYO Join a Marine Park Ranger and discover and experience the snorkelling equipment, as only limited gear is available. unusual and beautiful creatures and plants on the rocky reefs Bookings essential, phone 5598 6235. Activity is weather of the unique Marengo Reefs Marine Sanctuary. This is a rare dependent. Activity cost $20 per person. opportunity to view many animals that only appear once the COAST KIDS sun has set. Sturdy footwear and sun protection a must. Wednesday 10 January, 10.30am–12pm Bookings essential, phone 5237 6889 or 0400 170 040. Wednesday 17 January, 10.30am–12pm MARINE SANCTUARY ROCKPOOL RAMBLE Coastal games and fun on the beach. Meet on the beach in Tuesday 9 January, 10am–12pm front of the Surf Life Saving Club. For further information, Thursday 18 January, 4–6pm phone 5598 6089. Friday 19 January, 5–7pm PENGUIN ENCOUNTERS Join a Marine Park Ranger and discover and experience the Wednesday 10 January, 9pm onwards unusual and beautiful creatures and plants on the rocky Drop in and hear fascinating penguin facts as the summer reefs of the unique Marengo Reefs Marine Sanctuary. Sturdy sunsets over the Twelve Apostles Marine National Park and watch footwear and sun protection a must. Bookings essential, as the penguins come ashore for the night. BYO binoculars. phone 5237 6889 or 0400 170 040. Meet at the Twelve Apostles viewing platform, Port Campbell National Park. For further information phone 5598 6089. APOLLO BAY TWILIGHT ESTUARY DISCOVERY UNDERNEATH THE ARCHES Saturday 6 January, 7–9pm Friday 12 January, 9–11am Evenings are a great time to come and explore the beauty Friday 19 January, 9–11am and mystery of the Barham River Estuary. Join us and discover Take the plunge with a local Marine Naturalist to explore some of the fascinating creatures that live where the river the underwater wonders of The Arches Marine Sanctuary. meets the sea. Old shoes are ideal. Bookings essential, phone Certified divers only (mandatory sighting of ‘C card’ by Dive 5236 6082. Master). Gear hire available. Bookings essential, phone 5598 6235. Activity cost $30 per person.

 WATERBUGS & BEASTIES WYE RIVER Wednesday 10 January, 10am–12pm TWIGHLIGHT ROCKPOOL RAMBLE MAGIC Join Waterwatch for a close encounter with the weird and Friday 5 January, 7–9pm wonderful bugs and critters that live in the Barham River. A Discover and experience the unusual and beautiful creatures fun, hands-on activity for the whole family. Old shoes are and plants on the rocky reef exposed at low tide around Wye ideal, and sun protection is a must. Bookings essential one day River. This is a rare opportunity to view many animals that in advance, phone Bernadette on 0418 145 818 or Deirdre on only appear once the sun has set. Sturdy footwear and sun 0408 526 113. protection a must. Bookings essential, phone 5236 6082. FISHCARE FISHING CLINIC ROCKPOOL RAMBLE MAGIC Friday 12 January, 10am–12pm Tuesday 9 January, 10am–12pm Come and join this fun, hands-on fishing clinic, and learn Thursday 18 January, 4–6pm some of the tricks of the trade from local fishing experts from Discover and experience the unusual and beautiful creatures Fishcare. BYO rod or hand line (if you have one), covered and plants on the rocky reef exposed at low tide around Wye footwear and sun protection. Limited numbers. Meet at the River. Sturdy footwear and sun protection a must. Bookings Apollo Bay Pier. essential, phone 5236 6082. BEACH THEATRE FUN Saturday 13 January, 7–7.45pm CUMBERLAND RIVER Join us for a fun filled evening of beach theatre for the whole ROCKPOOL RAMBLE MAGIC family, with the hilarious antics of our lovable beach theatre Thursday 11 January, 11am–1pm characters as we follow the Short-finned Eel’s journey from Discover and experience the unusual and beautiful creatures the South Coral Sea to the Barham River. Pack your picnic rug and plants on the rocky reef exposed at low tide around the and hamper and meet on the grass next to the Apollo Bay Cumberland River. Sturdy footwear and sun protection a must. Surf Club. Bookings essential, phone 5263 1133. APOLLO BAY FORESHORE FRIENDS DAY Sunday 14 January, 10am–12.30pm LORNE Come and help the local environment and protect the Apollo Bay TWILIGHT ROCKPOOL RAMBLE MAGIC Foreshore from weed invasion. Join the Friends of the Apollo Bay Thursday 4 January, 6–8pm Foreshore and Apollo Bay Coast Action in this hands-on activity Discover and experience the unusual and beautiful creatures for everyone, finishing with a free BBQ lunch for participants. and plants on the rocky reef exposed at low tide around the Gloves and tools provided. BYO sun protection and sturdy Lorne Pier. This is a rare opportunity to view many animals that footwear. Meet on the foreshore opposite the Mobil Service only appear once the sun has set. Sturdy footwear and sun Station. For more information phone Gary on 0419 301 311. protection a must. Bookings essential, phone 5263 1133. ESTUARY DISCOVERY ROCKPOOL RAMBLE MAGIC Wednesday 17 January, 4–6pm Wednesday 10 January, 10am–12pm Come and explore the beauty and mystery of the Barham River Friday 19 January, 4–6pm Estuary and discover some of the fascinating creatures that Discover and experience the unusual and beautiful creatures live where the river meets the sea. Old shoes are ideal, sun and plants on the rocky reef exposed at low tide around protection is a must. Bookings essential, phone 5236 6082. the Lorne Pier. Sturdy footwear and sun protection a must. Bookings essential, phone 5263 1133. KENNETT RIVER ESTUARY ‘DOCTORS’ TWILIGHT ROCKPOOL RAMBLE MAGIC Monday 8 January, 10am–12pm Thursday 4 January, 6–8pm Join us as we explore the unusual and amazing plants Discover and experience the unusual and beautiful creatures and animals found within the Erskine River Estuary, Lorne. and plants on the rocky reef exposed at low tide around Learn techniques used by estuary ‘doctors’ as we assess the Kennett River. This is a rare opportunity to view many animals health of the estuary with the help of scientific experts from that only appear once the sun has set. Sturdy footwear and EstuaryWatch. Sturdy footwear and sun protection a must. sun protection a must. Bookings essential, phone 5236 6082. Bookings essential one day in advance, phone the EstuaryWatch ROCKPOOL RAMBLE MAGIC Coordinator on 0429 192 589. Wednesday 10 January, 10am–12pm MYSTERIES OF THE SEA Discover and experience the unusual and beautiful creatures Tuesday 9 January, 7.30–9pm and plants on the rocky reef exposed at low tide around The coastline along the Great Ocean Road is home to a Kennett River. Sturdy footwear and sun protection a must. vast array of spectacular and colourful marine creatures and Bookings essential, phone 5236 6082. plants. Join us for an enlightening and interactive presentation WATERBUGS & BEASTIES highlighting secrets hidden beneath the waves. BYO rug Wednesday 17 January, 10am–12pm or chair. Meet at the Queens Park Hall in the Queens Park Join Waterwatch for a close encounter with the weird and Caravan Park, Armytage Street, Lorne. wonderful bugs and critters that live in our waterways. A fun, hands-on activity for the whole family. Old shoes are ideal, and sun protection a must. Bookings essential one day in advance, phone Bernadette on 0418 145 818 or Deirdre on 0408 526 113.

vi LORNECARE ERSKINE RIVER COMMUNITY DAY BEACH THEATRE FUN Wednesday 10 January, 9am–12pm Saturday 6 January, 7–7.45pm Wednesday 24 January, 9am–12pm Join us for a fun filled evening of beach theatre for the whole Come and learn about your holiday environment. Meet new family, with the hilarious antics of our lovable beach theatre friends and learn new skills from volunteers from Lornecare characters as we follow the Short-finned Eel’s journey from as they undertake environmental works along the Erskine the South Coral Sea to the Painkalac Creek. Pack your picnic River. The Great Ocean Road Coast Committee will provide rug and hamper, and meet on the grass next to the Aireys a free BBQ lunch for participants. Everyone welcome, gloves Inlet Skate Park, on the corner of Inlet Crescent and the Great and tools provided. BYO sun protection and sturdy footwear. Ocean Road. Meet on the banks of the Erskine River, upstream of the Great FISHY ED SHED Ocean Road Bridge and opposite the Erskine River Cottages. Monday 8 January, 10am–2pm For more information, phone Michael on 0408 891 886. Come and find out what makes a fish a fish with touch FISHCARE FISHING CLINIC tanks, marine specimens and give aways for the whole family. Thursday 11 January, 10am–12pm Free coastal and marine information available at the display. Come and join this fun, hands on fishing clinic, and learn some Brought to you by the Great Ocean Road Coast Committee, of the tricks of the trade from local fishing experts from Fishcare. the manned display will be on the grass next to the Split Point BYO rod or hand line (if you have one), covered footwear, and Lighthouse car park, on the corner of Lighthouse Road and sun protection. Limited numbers. Meet at the Lorne Pier. Federal Street. FISHY ED SHED EAGLE ROCK DISCOVERY DAY Saturday 13 January, 10am–2pm Monday 8 January, 10am–2pm Saturday 20 January, 10am–2pm Drop in and discover the many secrets of the small sea-haven Come and find out what makes a fish a fish with touch that is Eagle Rock Marine Sanctuary. Marine National Park tanks, marine specimens and give aways for the whole family. Rangers will be on hand to answer any questions and provide Free coastal and marine information available at the display. information on what can be found in the Sanctuary. The Brought to you by the Great Ocean Road Coast Committee, interactive display will be on the grass next to the Split Point the manned display will be at the Lorne Pier. Lighthouse car park, on the corner of Lighthouse Road and LORNECARE STONY CREEK COMMUNITY DAY Federal Street. Wednesday 17 January, 9am–12pm MARINE SANCTUARY ROCKPOOL RAMBLE Come and learn about your holiday environment. Meet new Wednesday 10 January, 10am–12pm friends and learn new skills from volunteers from Lornecare as Thursday 18 January, 4–6pm they undertake environmental works along the Stony Creek. Join a Marine Park Ranger and discover and experience the The Great Ocean Road Coast Committee will provide a free unusual and beautiful creatures and plants on the rocky reefs BBQ lunch for participants. Everyone welcome, gloves and tools exposed at low tide in the Eagle Rock Marine Sanctuary. provided. BYO sun protection and sturdy footwear. Meet at the Sturdy footwear and sun protection a must. Bookings Stony Creek car park just off the Great Ocean Road. For more essential, phone 5289 4100. information, phone Michael on 0408 891 886. BEACH DETECTIVES BEACH DETECTIVES Friday 12 January, 10am–11.30pm Thursday 18 January, 4–5.30pm An investigation with a difference. Finding clues along the An investigation with a difference. Finding clues along the beach, we unravel secrets about the ocean and discover who beach, we unravel secrets about the ocean and discover who eats whom! Target audience primary school age. Footwear eats whom! Target audience primary school age. Footwear and and sun protection a must. Bookings essential, phone 5263 sun protection a must. Bookings essential, phone 5263 1133. 1133. AIREYS INLET EEL ADVENTURES Saturday 13 January, 5–6.30pm MARINE SANCTUARY TWILIGHT ROCKPOOL RAMBLE Thursday 4 January, 6–8pm Learn about the cultural significance of one of our amazing local creatures, the Short-finned Eel. Lots of fun games and Join a Marine Park Ranger and discover and experience the activities on the Painkalac Creek. Target audience primary unusual and beautiful creatures and plants on the rocky reefs school age. Bookings essential, phone 5263 1133. exposed at low tide in the Eagle Rock Marine Sanctuary. This is a rare opportunity to view many animals that only appear ESTUARY DOCTORS once the sun has set. Sturdy footwear and sun protection a Tuesday 16 January, 10am–12pm must. Bookings essential, phone 5289 4100. Join us as we explore the unusual and amazing plants and animals found within the Painkalac Creek Estuary, Aireys MYSTERIES OF THE SEA Friday 5 January, 7.30–9pm Inlet. Learn techniques used by estuary ‘doctors’ as we assess Thursday 11 January, 7.30–9pm the health of the estuary with the help of scientific experts Wednesday 17 January, 7.30–9pm from EstuaryWatch. Sturdy footwear and sun protection a must. Bookings essential one day in advance, phone the The coastline along the Great Ocean Road is home to a EstuaryWatch Coordinator on 0429 192 589. vast array of spectacular and colourful marine creatures and plants. Join us for an enlightening and interactive presentation highlighting secrets hidden beneath the waves. BYO rug or chair. Meet at the entrance gates to the Aireys Inlet Caravan Park, Great Ocean Road, Aireys Inlet. Parking available at the front of the Caravan Park.

vii FRIENDS OF MOGGS CREEK COMMUNITY DAY ESTUARY DISCOVERY Sunday 21 January, 9.30–11am Friday 12 January, 10am–12pm Come and help the local environment and protect the dunes Come and explore the beauty of the Anglesea River Estuary from weed invasion. Join the Friends of Moggs Creek in this and discover some of the fascinating creatures that live hands-on activity for everyone, finishing with morning tea for where the river meets the sea. Old shoes are ideal, and sun participants. Tools and gloves provided. BYO sun protection protection a must. Bookings essential, phone 5263 1133. and sturdy footwear. Meet at the water tank in Old Coach WONDERS OF THE DEEP Road, Moggs Creek. For more information phone Margaret on Tuesday 16 January, 7–8.30pm 5289 6326. Join us for an amazing underwater discovery of the Point ANGLESEA Addis Marine National Park environment. See new and unseen footage of beautiful sponge gardens and incredible marine FISHY ED SHED life, with expert commentary from Marine National Park Monday 1 January, 10am–2pm Rangers. Meet at the Senior Citizens Hall, McMillan Street, Come and find out what makes a fish a fish with touch Anglesea (near the cinema). tanks, marine specimens and give aways for the whole family. Free coastal and marine information available at the display. TWILIGHT ESTUARY DISCOVERY Brought to you by the Great Ocean Road Coast Committee, Thursday 18 January, 6–8pm the manned display will be at the Anglesea Riverbank Market, Evenings are a great time to come and explore the beauty and Great Ocean Road, Anglesea. mystery of the Anglesea River estuary and discover some of the creatures that live where the river meets the sea. Bookings BEACH DETECTIVES essential, phone 5263 1133. Thursday 4 January, 4–5.30pm An investigation with a difference. Finding clues along the POINT ADDIS beach, we unravel secrets about the ocean and discover who MARINE NATIONAL PARK TWILIGHT ROCKPOOL RAMBLE eats whom! Target audience primary school age. Footwear and Friday 5 January, 6–8pm sun protection a must. Bookings essential, phone 5263 1133. Saturday 20 January, 6–8pm BEACH THEATRE FUN Discover the unusual and beautiful creatures and plants of Friday 5 January, 7–7.45pm the rocky reef exposed at low tide in the Point Addis Marine Join us for a fun filled evening of beach theatre for the whole National Park. This is a rare opportunity to view many animals family, with the hilarious antics of our lovable beach theatre that only appear once the sun has set. Sturdy footwear and characters as we follow the Short-finned Eel’s journey from sun protection a must. Bookings essential, phone 5263 1133. the South Coral Sea to the Anglesea River. Pack your picnic MARINE NATIONAL PARK SNORKEL rug and hamper and meet on the grass next to the Anglesea Sunday 7 January, 10am–12pm main beach car park, Great Ocean Road, near the mouth of the Anglesea River. Wednesday 17 January, 4–6pm This is a unique opportunity to experience first hand the ANGLESEA COAST ACTION COMMUNITY DAY wonders of the Point Addis Marine National Park. Discover Saturday 6 January, 9.30–12.30pm a whole new world of colourful fish, sponges and seaweeds Come and help the local environment and protect the dunes with qualified instructors. Wetsuits and snorkelling equipment from weed invasion. Join Anglesea Coast Action in this hands- provided. Not suitable for children under 10 years old. on activity for everyone, finishing with a BBQ for participants Bookings essential, phone 5263 1133. provided by the Great Ocean Road Coast Committee. Tools and gloves provided. BYO sun protection and sturdy footwear. MARINE NATIONAL PARK ROCKPOOL RAMBLE Meet at the rear of the sand dunes behind the main beach Tuesday 9 January, 10am–12pm (opposite the 4 Kings Shops) – look for the Coast Action Friday 19 January, 5–7pm banner. For more information phone Carl on 5263 2193. Join a Marine National Park Ranger and discover the unusual and beautiful creatures and plants of the rocky reef exposed FISHCARE FISHING CLINIC Sunday 7 January, 10am–12pm at low tide in the Point Addis Marine National Park. Sturdy footwear and sun protection a must. Bookings essential, Come and join this fun, hands on fishing clinic, and learn phone 5289 4100. some of the tricks of the trade from local fishing experts from Fishcare. BYO rod or hand line (if you have one), covered FOSSIL SAFARI footwear and sun protection. Limited numbers. Meet at the Wednesday 10 January, 10.30am–12.30pm boardwalk at the Anglesea River Boat Sheds, north of the Sunday 14 January, 11am–1pm Great Ocean Road Bridge. Tuesday 16 January, 1–3pm FRIENDS OF EASTERN OTWAYS (GREAT OTWAY NATIONAL Go back in time and discover ancient marine fossils at Point PARK) COMMUNITY DAY Addis Marine National Park. Make your own fossil while Tuesday 9 January, 9.30–11am investigating the natural history of Point Addis. Bookings Come and help with the regeneration of the coastal heathland essential, phone 5263 1133. at Anglesea. Join the Friends of the Eastern Otways (Great FRIENDS OF POINT ADDIS MARINE NATIONAL PARK Otway National Park) in this hands on activity for everyone, COMMUNITY DAY finishing with a morning tea for participants. Tools and gloves Friday 12 January, 10am–12.30pm provided. BYO sun protection and sturdy footwear. Meet at Join the Friends of Point Addis Marine National Park for a O’Donohues Road, Anglesea, opposite Fifth Avenue. For series of hands on activities including guided walks and coastal more information phone Margaret on 5289 6326. protection works. Meet at the end car park at Point Addis. For more information, phone Lynn on 5261 6880. viii PORT PHILLIP TORQUAY TWILIGHT ROCKPOOL RAMBLE WEST Saturday 6 January, 6.30–8.30pm Activities are FREE unless Friday 19 January, 5.30–7.30pm equipment is required Many animals wait until dark to come out of their daytime (e.g. canoes, surfboards or hiding places. Join us on a twilight investigation of the Point snorkelling gear). Please note Danger Marine Sanctuary and discover some incredible carefully which activities animals and interesting night-time behaviours. Octopus and require a booking to be made. crabs on the run are just some of the creatures we might see. Remember to be Sunsmart at all daytime activities – wear a BYO sturdy shoes – no thongs. Bookings essential, phone hat, sunscreen, and shirt, and bring a drink. Children under 5263 1133. 12 must be accompanied by an adult. ROCKPOOL RAMBLE For more information about activities, contact Coast Action/ Friday 12 January, 11.30am–1.30pm Coastcare Facilitator Dianne Moore on 0411 262 868. Wednesday 17 January, 3–5pm Have you ever seen a brittle star or a decorator crab? Join the POINT ADDIS experts in helping you discover some of the amazing plants and MARINE NATIONAL PARK TWILIGHT ROCKPOOL RAMBLE secretive animals that thrive in the harsh rockpool environment Friday 5 January, 6–8pm in the Point Danger Marine Sanctuary. BYO sturdy shoes – no Saturday 20 January, 6–8pm thongs. Bookings essential, phone 5263 1133. Discover the unusual and beautiful creatures and plants of the rocky reef exposed at low tide within the Point Addis Marine BREAMLEA National Park. This is a rare opportunity to view many animals ROCKPOOL RAMBLE that only appear once the sun has set. Sturdy footwear and Saturday 13 January, 12–2pm sun protection a must. Bookings essential, phone 5263 1133. Have you ever seen an elephant snail or a dog whelk? You MARINE NATIONAL PARK SNORKEL can when you experience the magic of a rockpool ramble. Let Sunday 7 January, 10am–12pm the experts help you discover some of the amazing plants and secretive animals which thrive in these harsh environments. Wednesday 17 January, 4–6pm BYO sturdy shoes – no thongs. Bookings essential, phone This is a unique opportunity to experience first hand the 5263 1133. wonders of the Point Addis Marine National Park. Discover a whole new world of colourful fish, sponges and seaweeds BARWON HEADS with qualified instructors. Wetsuits and snorkelling equipment BARWON ESTUARY HERITAGE CENTRE provided. Not suitable for children under 10 years old. December 26 to January 26, open each day from 1–4pm Bookings essential, phone 5263 1133. The former historic ‘Lobster Pot’ has been turned into an MARINE NATIONAL PARK ROCKPOOL RAMBLE amazing interpretation centre for you to enjoy. Come along Tuesday 9 January, 10am–12pm and chat to the volunteers about the history of the towns near Friday 19 January, 5–7pm the river mouth, find out about local flora and fauna, and take Join a Marine National Park Ranger and discover the unusual a close up look at marine animals in the live tanks. The Centre and beautiful creatures and plants of the rocky reef exposed at is located on Jetty Road next to the Barwon Heads Caravan low tide within the Point Addis Marine National Park. Sturdy Park. Melway 497 C5. footwear and sun protection a must. Bookings essential, TWILIGHT ROCKPOOL RAMBLE phone 5289 4100. Thursday 4 January, 5.30–7pm FOSSIL SAFARI Friday 5 January, 6–7.30pm Wednesday 10 January, 10.30am–12.30pm Saturday 6 January, 6.30–8pm Sunday 14 January, 11am–1pm Friday 19 January, 5.30–7pm Tuesday 16 January, 1–3pm Saturday 20 January, 6.30–8pm Go back in time and discover ancient marine fossils at Point Sunday 21 January, 7.30–9pm Addis Marine National Park. Make your own fossil while Many animals wait until dark to come out of their daytime investigating the natural history of Point Addis. BYO sturdy hiding places. Join marine biologists and Friends of the Bluff shoes – no thongs. Bookings essential, phone 5263 1133. volunteers on a twilight investigation of the Barwon Bluff FRIENDS OF POINT ADDIS MARINE NATIONAL PARK Marine Sanctuary and discover some incredible animals and COMMUNITY DAY interesting night-time behaviours. Octopus and crabs on the Friday 12 January, 10am–12.30pm run are just some of the creatures we might see. BYO sturdy Join the Friends of Point Addis Marine National Park for a shoes – no thongs. Bookings essential, phone 5258 3344. series of hands on activities including guided walks and coastal FISHCARE FISHING CLINIC protection works. Meet at the end car park at Point Addis. For Tuesday 9 January, 12–2pm more information, phone Lynn on 5261 6880. Come along and learn the tricks of the trade with expert advice from Fishcare volunteers. Find out about fishing regulations, where the fish are biting and how you can catch them. BYO fishing equipment if available. Bait provided. Bookings essential, phone 5226 4667 between 8.30am and 4.30pm.

ix BEACH DETECTIVE QUEENSCLIFF Wednesday 10 January, 10–11:30am MARINE DISCOVERY TOURS Sharks eggs, seaweed, shells and more! Join us on a beach Thursday 4 January, 10am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm investigation to discover the treasures that wash ashore from Come along and discover what makes Victoria’s marine the ocean. BYO sturdy shoes – no thongs. Bookings essential, environment so special with a special presentation and a free phone 5258 3344 guided tour of the Marine Discovery Centre with touch tanks ROCKPOOL RAMBLE and live animals from the sea. Find out how you can become Friday 12 January, 11.30–1pm a Friend of the Marine Discovery Centre. Bookings essential, Sunday 14 January, 12.30–2pm phone 52583344. Wednesday 17 January, 3–4.30pm SEALS AND SEAWEEDS CRUISE Have you ever seen an eleven armed seastar or a decorator Friday 5 January, 1.45–4pm crab? Let the experts help you discover some of the amazing Monday 8 January, 1.45–4pm plants and secretive animals which thrive in the harsh rockpool Thursday 11 January, 1.45–4pm environment of Barwon Bluff Marine Sanctuary. BYO sturdy Monday 15 January, 1.45–4pm shoes – no thongs. Bookings essential, phone 5258 3344. Thursday 18 January, 1.45–4pm CRABS AND CRITTERS AMONGST THE MANGROVES Sunday 21 January, 1.45–4pm Saturday 13 January, 2.30–4pm Discover the incredible diversity of marine life that lives in Port Join us on an exploration of the Barwon Estuary to discover Phillip Bay. Sampling equipment will collect marine life from some the unusual creatures including pipefish, soldier crabs, the bay and you will be able to closely observe animals such and moon snails. Using our sampling equipment, take a as seahorses, seastars, pill bugs and wandering anemones. close look at the tiny inhabitants of this fish nursery. BYO You may also get the chance to meet some of the Bay’s larger sturdy shoes that can get wet/muddy – no thongs. Bookings inhabitants including Australian fur seals and Australasian essential, phone 5258 3344. Gannets. BYO warm jacket. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Bookings essential, phone 5258 OCEAN GROVE 3344. Activity cost $10 per person. FISHY ED SHED Saturday 6 January, 10am–2pm CRABS & CRITTERS Sunday 7 January, 11am–12.30pm Drop in for a while and see what makes a fish a fish. Enjoy hands on activities with touch tanks and marine specimens. Tuesday 9 January, 12.30–2pm Meet at the Ocean Grove Main Beach car park. Friday 12 January, 2–3.30pm Melway 497 G2. Mud, glorious mud! The Swan Bay mudflats are teeming with life. Crabs, worms, snapping shrimps and even harmless banjo POINT LONSDALE sharks. Bring gumboots or old shoes that can get wet/muddy TWILIGHT ROCKPOOOL RAMBLE and we will help you explore the wonders of the mudflats Thursday 4 January, 5.30–7pm that form part of the Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park. Friday 5 January, 6–7.30pm BYO insect repellent and sturdy shoes – no thongs. Bookings Saturday 6 January, 6.30–8pm essential, phone 5258 3344. Saturday 20 January, 6.30–8pm SHARK SCIENCE Sunday 21 January, 7.30–9pm Monday 8 January, 12–1pm Many animals wait until dark to come out of their daytime Egg layers, live young bearers and even eating their siblings hiding places. Join us on a twilight investigation of the – sharks have amazing reproductive diversity. Join renowned Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park and discover some shark scientists from Queenscliff’s Department of Primary incredible animals and interesting night-time behaviours. Industries to learn more about the biology of these fabulous Octopus and crabs on the run are just some of the creatures creatures. Bookings essential, phone 5258 3344 we might see. BYO sturdy shoes – no thongs. Bookings MYSTERIES OF THE SEA essential, phone 5258 3344. Wednesday 10 January, 7–8pm ROCKPOOL RAMBLE The beaches and sea are home to a vast array of unusual, Saturday 13 January, 12–1.30pm spectacular and colourful marine creatures. Join Mary Molloy, Thursday 18 January, 4.30–6pm expert underwater photographer, on a journey into Victoria’s marine environment and discover the animals and plants living Have you ever seen a chiton or a sea anemone? Let the below the surface – you’ll be surprised! Meet at the Marine experts help you discover some of the amazing plants Discovery Centre, 2a Bellarine Hwy, Queenscliff. Bookings and secretive animals which thrive in the harsh rockpool recommended, phone 5258 3344. environment of Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park. BYO sturdy shoes – no thongs. Bookings essential, phone 5258 BEACH DETECTIVE 3344. Tuesday 16 January, 1.30–3pm BEACH DETECTIVE Sharks eggs, seaweed, shells and more! Join us on a beach Tuesday 16 January, 1.30–3pm investigation to discover the treasures that wash ashore from the ocean. Bookings essential, phone 5258 3344. Sharks eggs, seaweed, shells and more! Join us on a beach investigation to discover the treasures that wash ashore from the ocean. Bookings essential, phone 5258 3344.

 PORTARLINGTON CHEETHAM WETLANDS FISHY ED SHED BIRD TOUR OF WETLANDS Sunday 7 January, 10am–2pm Monday 15 January, 4–5.30pm Sunday 14 January, 10am–2pm Every summer an amazing migration of animals (which Drop in for a while and see what makes a fish a fish. Enjoy average the size of an adult fist) winds its way to the edges hands on activities with touch tanks and marine specimens. of Port Phillip and Western Port Bays. Migratory birds in Meet at the end of the Portarlington Pier. Melway 444 H5. their thousands call Victoria’s marine and estuarine habitats home during the summer period. Many of these birds have FISHCARE FISHING CLINIC travelled from places such as Alaska, Siberia and Asia to Wednesday 17 January, 10am–12pm feed in our warm, nutrient rich waters. Come and share Come along and learn the tricks of the trade with expert advice a guided tour of significant wetlands holding thousands from Fishcare volunteers. Find out about fishing regulations, of feeding migratory birds. BYO sun protection, enclosed where the fish are biting and how you can catch them. BYO shoes, binoculars, and camera, as the species diversity can be fishing equipment if available. Bait provided. Bookings essential, spectacular! Participants must be over 8 years old. An adult phone 5226 4667 between 8.30am and 4.30pm. must accompany young children. Bookings essential, phone the Dolphin Research Centre on 1300 130 949. PORT PHILLIP ALTONA ALTONA COASTAL PARK – WALK & TALK EAST, Saturday 6 January, 11am–1pm MORNINGTON Come and enjoy the delights of the coastal environment right on our doorstep. Take a guided walk along Victoria’s unique PENINSULA, saltmarsh and intertidal zone exploring and discovering the living and non-living succulents, mangroves and marine plants WESTERNPORT and animals as we go. Delve into the life of mudflats and their important role in marine ecosystems, look for Cuttle bones, BAY AND THE BASS COAST marine egg cases, and carnivorous snails and their victims. If Activities are FREE unless equipment is required (e.g. you enjoy relaxed walks and exploring, then this is the trip for canoes, surfboards or snorkelling gear). Please note carefully you. BYO sun protection and enclosed shoes. Suitable for all which activities require a booking to be made. ages. Meet at Ford Crossing, Kororoit Creek and Racecourse Remember to be Sunsmart at all daytime activities – wear a Road. Melway 55 C8. For further information phone Michelle hat, sunscreen, and shirt and bring a drink. Be prepared for Gooding on 9932 1000. cold conditions. Children under 12 must be accompanied by URBAN WILDLIFE DISPLAY an adult. Monday 8 January, 10am–3pm For more information about activities contact Coast Action/ Tuesday 9 January, 10am–3pm Coastcare Facilitator Phillip Wierzbowski on 9296 4525 or Wednesday 10 January, 10am–3pm 0411 409 815 for Metropolitan Melbourne, and Denis Cox Andrew Wegener from Australian Wildlife Lectures presents on 9296 4532 or 0409 958 050 for Mornington Peninsula, an amazing display of live and preserved wildlife. Get up close Westernport, and the Bass Coast. to snakes, frogs, lizards and stick insects. Take the opportunity to ask Andrew questions as he has many years of experience POINT COOK in keeping and observing wildlife. Suitable for all ages. Meet SEASHORE RAMBLE at Altona Pavilion, Life Saving Club, Esplanade. Melway 54 Monday 15 January, 6–7pm H11. For further information phone Michelle Gooding on Come and enjoy the delights of the marine environment right 9932 1000. on our doorstep. Take a guided walk along Victoria’s unique URBAN WILDLIFE DISPLAY intertidal zone exploring and discovering the living and non- Thursday 11 January, 10am–3pm living marine plants and animals as we go. Delve into the life Friday 12 January, 10am–3pm of seaweeds and their important role in marine ecosystems, look for cuttle bones, marine egg cases, and carnivorous snails Andrew Wegener from Australian Wildlife Lectures presents and their victims. If you enjoy relaxed walks and exploring, an amazing display of live and preserved wildlife. Get up close then this is the trip for you. BYO shoes that can get wet. to snakes, frogs, lizards and stick insects. Take the opportunity Suitable for all ages. Bookings essential, phone the Dolphin to ask Andrew questions as he has many years of experience Research Centre on 1300 130 949. in keeping and observing wildlife. Suitable for all ages. Meet at the Altona Meadows Library and Learning Centre, ‘Teenage Area’, Central Square Shopping Centre, 2 Newham Way. Melway 53 E12. For further information phone 9932 3020.

xi DARWIN IN THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS VICTORIA’S UNIQUE MARINE TREASURES Friday 12 January, 7.30–9pm Wednesday 10 January, 7–8.30pm Charles Darwin’s theories shocked the world in the late 19th Delve into the unique wonders that make up Victoria’s century with his then revolutionary ideas of natural selection internationally significant marine environment. Ben Camm and biological evolution, developed after his visit to the (marine educator) will present stunning artefacts and images Galapagos Islands in 1835. Hear about Darwin and see some of this amazing ecosystem that’s right on our doorstep. Jeff wonderful recent images of the Galapagos Islands. Suitable Weir (Dolphin Research Institute) will then present current for all ages. Bookings essential, phone Altona Library on 9932 research, findings and history of Dolphins in Victoria and 1330. specifically within Port Phillip Bay. With one of the longest A WHALE OUT OF WATER continuous studies of dolphins in the world, this is a Friday 12 January, 9.30–10.30am, 11am–12pm, 12.30– presentation not to be missed. Participants must be over 14 1.30pm, 2–3pm years old. Be prepared for cold conditions. Bookings essential, phone the Dolphin Research Centre on 1300 130 949. Learn about Victoria’s marine life INSIDE our 19m INFLATABLE WHALE! Learn about how they feed, explore real artefacts, ELWOOD and experience unique video footage of Victoria’s whales. This interactive 60min session not only delves into the life of 2007 – YEAR OF THE SURF LIFE whales but dolphins, fish and many more of Victoria’s living Thursday 11 January, 10am–3pm marine treasures too. Participants must be less than 14 years Help celebrate ‘100 years of heroes’ – a commemorative event old. Bookings essential, phone 9932 3020. with an extensive array of activities and displays at Elwood, the first Surf Life Saving Club in Victoria. The Club will be SEASIDE FILM NIGHT integrating many water and beach activities for a safe family Saturday 13 January, 7–9.30pm day at the beach. This is a great opportunity to be involved in Enjoy a relaxing movie with a marine theme on the shores of the ‘Year of the Surf Lifesaver’. Suitable for all ages. BYO sun Port Phillip Bay, internationally recognised by photographers protection. Meet at Elwood Life Saving Club, Elwood Foreshore. and film makers. The night will include artefacts to touch, Melway 67 B5. For further information call 9531 5755. and mystery items from the sea presented by staff from the Dolphin Research Centre. Bring your family for a fun night out. RICKETS POINT Movie Suitable for all ages. Be prepared for cold conditions. MARINE SCIENTIST Bookings essential, phone Michelle Gooding on 9932 1000. Thursday 18 January, 4–6pm SEASHORE RAMBLE Delve into world of a marine scientist as we explore the diversity Friday 19 January, 10–11.30am of the intertidal zone. In small groups we will conduct a study Come and enjoy the delights of a unique marine environment of the diversity and density of marine plants and animals using right on our Esplanade. Take a guided walk along this unique a quadrat. Counting and measuring the organisms we find, intertidal zone where thousands of years ago, the lava flows we will then discuss relationships in our data and present reached the coastline. Explore and discover the living and non- conclusions. What does our data tell us about the organisms living marine plants and animals as we go. Delve into the life living in this environment? This session is a must for any of seaweeds and their important role in marine ecosystems, budding scientist. Participants must be over 10 years old. BYO and look for anemones, marine worms, and carnivorous snails sun protection and suitable shoes. Bookings essential, phone and their victims. If you enjoy relaxed walks and exploring, the Dolphin Research Centre on 1300 130 949. then this is the trip for you. BYO sun protection and sensible shoes. Suitable for all ages. Bookings essential, phone Michelle FRANKSTON Gooding on 9932 1000. FRANKSTON SEA FESTIVAL SPECTACULAR Saturday 20 January, 12–10pm ST KILDA Sunday 21 January, 12–5pm WALK ON THE WILD SIDE – ST KILDA’S BEACH LIFE AT NIGHT The Frankston Sea Festival celebrates the unique marine Saturday 6 January, 8–10pm and coastal environment and wonderful community spirit Tuesday 16 January, 8–10pm through the integration of many activities including children’s Come and enjoy the delights of St Kilda’s coastal environment workshops, environmental displays, fireworks, performing at night. Use the night scope to look for Penguins, Nankeen artists, a seafood and wine fair, water and beach based Night Herons, Royal Spoonbills, Chestnut Teals, and Pacific activities, and much more. Suitable for all ages. BYO sun Black Ducks. Commentary on the natural environment will protection. Meet at Frankston Waterfront. Melway 102 B3. cover subjects such as geology, plants and animals, flood For further information phone Lisa Loulier on 9784 1768. mitigation, stormwater issues, land reclamation, land uses, AFTERNOON SEASIDE FILM and much more. Bring your family for a leisurely walk and join Saturday 20 January, 2–3.30pm in the discussion. Suitable for all ages. Be prepared for cold Enjoy a relaxing movie with a marine theme on the shores of conditions and BYO sensible shoes. Bookings essential, phone Port Phillip Bay, internationally recognised by photographers the EcoCentre on 9534 0670. and film makers. The afternoon will include artefacts to touch, and mystery items from the sea, presented by staff from the Dolphin Research Centre. Bring your family for a fun afternoon out. Movies suitable for all ages. Bookings essential, phone Lisa Loulier on 9784 1768.

xii DARWIN IN THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS SING & DANCE WITH STARFISH Saturday 20 January, 7–8.30pm Monday 15 January, 11–11.45am and 1–1.45pm Charles Darwin’s theories shocked the world in the late Tuesday 16 January, 11–11.45am and 1–1.45pm 19th century with his then revolutionary ideas of natural Wednesday 17 January, 11–11.45am and 1–1.45pm selection and biological evolution, developed after his visit to Thursday 18 January, 11–11.45am and 1–1.45pm the Galapagos Islands in 1835. Hear about Darwin and see Friday 19 January, 11–11.45am and 1pm–1.45pm some wonderful recent images of the Galapagos Islands. Be prepared for cold conditions. Bookings essential, phone Lisa Come and see Australasia’s most exciting and innovative Loulier on 9784 1768. children’s entertainment company with a unique fusion of original and interactive music, songs, dances, stories and SEAFORD magic tricks that celebrate the sea. A treasure chest of salty surprises. Children of all ages love to sing and dance with A WHALE OUT OF WATER StarFish. Meet at Centro Mornington, 78 Barkly Street, Tuesday 16 January, 9.30–10.30am, 11am–12pm, 12.30– Mornington. Melway 104 D11. 1.30pm, 2–3pm Learn about Victoria’s marine life INSIDE our 19m INFLATABLE DARWIN IN THE GALAPAGOS WHALE! Learn about how they feed, explore real artefacts, Thursday 11 January, 7.30–9.30pm and experience unique video footage of Victoria’s whales. This Darwin’s theories changed the way humans saw themselves. interactive 60 minute session not only delves into the life of These ideas evolved on his historic voyage on the H.M.S. whales, but dolphins, fish and many more of Victoria’s living Beagle to the Galapagos Islands. Join us for a talk about marine treasures too. Participants must be less than 14 years Darwin’s voyage, and see recent fascinating photos of the old. Bookings essential, phone Lisa Loulier on 9784 1768 for Galapagos Islands. Bookings essential, phone 5974 3686. further information. ROSEBUD SEASHORE RAMBLE Wednesday 17 January, 10–11.30am A WHALE OUT OF WATER Sunday 14 January, 9.30–10.30am, 11am–12pm, 12.30 Come and enjoy the delights of the marine environment right –1.30pm, 2–3pm on our doorstep. Take a guided walk along Victoria’s unique intertidal zone, exploring and discovering the living and non Fun for primary schoolers. Have a whale of a time by walking living marine plants and animals as we go. Delve into the life right into a giant whale and learning about the amazing life of of seaweeds and their important role in marine ecosystems, whales and other fascinating marine life. Bookings essential, look for cuttle bones, marine egg cases, and carnivorous snails phone the Dolphin Research Centre on 1300 130 949. and their victims. If you enjoy relaxed walks and exploring CAPEL SOUND then this is the trip for you. Suitable for all ages. BYO sun protection and suitable shoes. Bookings essential, phone the COASTAL DISCOVERY Dolphin Research Centre on 1300 130 949. Friday 12 January, 10–11am, 11.30am–12.30pm, 1–2pm Discover the mysteries of the coast as we explore the VICTORIA’S UNIQUE MARINE TREASURES Chinaman’s Creek for rare skinks. Find out what goes down Friday 19 January, 7–8.30pm the drain, where it ends up, and who knows what else! An Delve into the unique wonders that make up Victoria’s adult must accompany young children. Meet at the Capel internationally significant marine environment. Ben Camm Sound Rangers Office. Melway 169 H2. (marine educator) will present stunning artefacts and images of this amazing ecosystem that’s right on our doorstep. Jeff MOUNT MARTHA Weir (Dolphin Research Institute) will then present current WALK THE WETLANDS research, findings and history of Dolphins in Victoria and Friday 5 January, 11am–1pm specifically within Port Phillip Bay. With one of the longest Come for a walk to see the waters and surrounding bush of continuous studies of dolphins in the world, this is a the largest estuary on Port Phillip Bay – the Balcombe Estuary. presentation not to be missed. Participants must be over 14 Meet members of the Balcombe Estuary Rehabilitation Group years old. Be prepared for cold conditions. Bookings essential, who will show you the Reserve and its secrets, and then phone the Dolphin Research Centre on 1300 130 949. help you enjoy a BBQ. Meet at Balcombe Estuary Recreation MORNINGTON Reserve, end of Mirang Avenue. Melway 144 K 11. FISHCARE CLINIC PORTSEA Wednesday 3rd January, 10am–12 pm SNORKEL THE PIER Tuesday 9th January, 10am–12pm Monday 15 January, 9.30–11am, 11.30–1pm, and The Fishcare experts will show you how to fish safely and 1.30–3pm successfully. BYO fishing gear and sun protection, and wear There is some amazing marine life right in our own watery suitable clothes. Parents of attending children are asked to backyard. Come and be amazed with the Bayplay snorkel remain in attendance. Bookings essential, phone 9789 2254. experts as they show you the secrets of the Portsea Pier. It’s easy and great fun. All equipment is supplied including wet suits, masks, snorkels and flippers. Participants must be aged 10 years or older. Attending children to be accompanied by an adult. Bookings essential, phone 5988 0188. Activity cost $20 per person.

xiii POINT NEPEAN DARWIN IN THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS NATURAL NEPEAN TOUR Saturday 20 January, 2–3.30pm Monday 8 January, 4–6 pm Charles Darwin visited the Galapagos Islands in 1835. It was Bask in the glow of the lowering sun and be transported here that he began to develop his then revolutionary ideas of across a rocky surface that was once moving sand. Take a tour natural selection and biological evolution. Hear about Darwin at Point Nepean to see and hear about the human and natural and see some wonderful recent images of the Galapagos history of the area. Bookings essential, phone 5984 4276. Islands. Bookings essential, phone 5931 4001 BH. Coolart Park entry fee $5. entry fee $7 adult, $5 concession, $3.50 child, $18 family, or free with presentation of this program MARINE MAGIC Monday 15 January, 4–5pm BITTERN Did you know that sea life in Port Phillip Bay is as varied THE BIRD BANDERS and interesting as the Great Barrier Reef? See for yourself Wednesday 10 January, 10am–12pm at an exciting presentation at the Point Nepean National How long do Blue Wrens, Wattle Birds, Bronzewing Pigeons Park theatrette. Bookings essential, phone 5984 4276. Take and Pelicans live for? Have an entertaining time finding out a tour on the Point Nepean transporter before the Marine about the exciting research and monitoring work that is Magic presentation, a $15 fee applies, details on the booking gathering important information on our native bird life from number. an expert. Bookings essential, phone 5979 1799. POINT LEO HASTINGS WALK THE ROCKPOOLS BY NIGHT WESTERNPORT WONDERLAND Saturday 6 January, 7.30–9.30pm Tuesday 9 January, 11am–12pm and 2–3pm Experience the fascination of seeing beautiful sea creatures at Be delighted by an hour of entertaining family fun and home when they are most active. Expect to get a bit wet. BYO discovery of Westernport and its wildlife at the Hastings old shoes, warm clothes, a torch, and enthusiasm. An adult Dolphin Research Centre. Bookings essential, phone 1300 130 must accompany young children. Bookings essential, phone 949. Bring this brochure for free attendance. 5989 8333 BH. WALK THE ROCKPOOLS BY DAY FRENCH ISLAND Monday 15 January, 1.30–3.30pm FRENCH ISLAND CLEAN UP AND ECOTOUR Tuesday 16 January, 2–4pm Saturday 20 January, 10am–5pm Creatures in rock pools have adapted to living under crashing Enjoy a day helping the National Park Ranger clean up some waves and salt water that’s warm by day and cold at night. of the accumulated flotsam and jetsam that is thrown up by Come and see some of them and find out more about life the sea, and have a BBQ and yarn with experienced naturalists in the sea. BYO sun protection and old shoes. An adult must from Friends of French Island, and your Ecotour guide. Learn accompany young children. Bookings essential, phone 5989 some of the histories, mysteries and natural wonders of the 8333 BH. island. Bookings essential, phone 0429 177 532 BH. Activity cost $12 adults, $5 children, and includes ferry fare, island bus BALNARRING tour and BBQ lunch. BALNARRING BEACH EXPLORERS Sunday 7 January, 9.30–11.30am and 12–2pm BLIND BIGHT What can we find living in this amazing salty environment? THE BIRD BANDERS Discover the mysteries of the coast as we explore the bush for Wednesday 10 January, 1.30–3.30pm echidnas, and the beach and rocky shore for crabs, snails, and Have you seen Blue Wrens, Wattle Birds or Bronzewing who knows what! An adult must accompany young children. Pigeons in the bush? How long do they live? What do they Bookings essential, phone the Dolphin Research Centre on eat? How can we protect them? Have an entertaining time 1300 130 949. finding out about the exciting research and monitoring work that is gathering important information on our native bird SOMERS life from an expert. Meet at the Blind Bight Community Hall. SUNSET WALK Melway 143 B 10. Thursday 11 January, 7–8.30pm Thursday 18 January, 7–8.30pm TOORADIN Walk the bushland trails of Coolart with the Ranger to see WESTERNPORT TIDEMASTER TOUR and hear the wildlife both large and small. Then follow the Tuesday 9 January, 10.30am–12pm, 12.30–2pm, and trail to the beach to see the sunset in a glorious glow. BYO 2.30–4pm picnic BBQ at 6.30pm, warm clothes, and sturdy shoes. Tour through the mangroves and over sea grass meadows. See Bookings essential, phone 5931 4001 BH. Coolart entry fee wandering sea birds and waders from Siberia. Hear stories $7 adults, $5 concession, $3.50 child, $18 family, or free with tall and true about sharks and other fascinating wildlife in the presentation of this program comfort of the tour boat. Bookings essential, phone 5998 3488 BH. Activity cost $5 adults, $15 family, and children under 12 are free.

xiv CORONET BAY SOUTH GIPPSLAND DARWIN IN THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS Activities are FREE unless Friday 5 January, 7.30–9pm equipment is required Charles Darwin’s theories shocked the world in the late 19th (e.g. canoes, surfboards or century with his then revolutionary ideas of natural selection snorkelling gear). Please note and biological evolution, developed after his visit to the carefully which activities require Galapagos Islands in 1835. Hear about Darwin and see some a booking to be made. wonderful recent images of the Galapagos Islands. Meet at Remember to be Sunsmart at the Coronet Bay Community Hall, corner of Gellibrand Street all daytime activities – wear a hat, sunscreen, and shirt, and and Bantering Bay Road. bring a drink. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an SAN REMO adult. DINOSAUR SEARCH For more information about activities contact Coast Action/ Saturday 6 January, 2.30–4.30pm Coastcare Facilitator Bruce Atkin on 5183 9116 or See for yourself that dinosaurs once roamed San Remo 65 0429 842 142. million years ago as you follow a dinosaur expert down the cliffs. BYO sun protection and suitable footwear. An adult INVERLOCH must accompany young children. Meet your expert guide at Unless otherwise specified, bookings must be made at the car park end of Back Beach Road. Melway 634 J 9. the Bunurong Environment Centre (BEC), The Esplanade, Inverloch, in person, or by phone on 5674 3738. KILCUNDA COASTAL MURAL BONES OF THE DINOSAUR From Tuesday 2 January to Sunday 21 January, you will have Sunday 14 January, 12–2pm the opportunity to contribute to the creation of a mural. All Come and find out all about these amazing giants of the you need to do is to drop into the Bunurong Environment past from an expert and try your luck at finding evidence of Centre, use your creativity and express yourself with the their existence at Kilcunda. An adult must accompany young supplied art materials. children. Meet at the end of Mabilia Street, Kilcunda. Melway DINOSAUR DISCOVERY 512 R11. Tuesday 2 January, 2–4pm & 4–6pm Tuesday 9 January, 9–11am & 11am–1pm CAPE PATERSON Tuesday 16 January, 1–3pm & 3–5pm BENEATH THE WAVES SNORKEL EXPERIENCE Go back in time and unravel the mystery of the dinosaurs that Monday 15 January, 1–3pm, and 3–5pm lived around Inverloch. BYO sturdy footwear that can get wet. Coast Action invites you to join SEAL Diving Services’ qualified Bookings essential. instructors for a look at the stunning underwater beauty and reef life at Cape Paterson on the Bunurong coast. Suitable COASTAL WILDLIFE DISCOVERY DISPLAY for ages 10–85. All equipment supplied or BYO. Bookings Wednesday 3 January, 10am–4pm essential, phone the Bunurong Environment Centre on 5674 Thursday 4 January, 10am–4pm 3738. Activity cost $20 per person. Drop into this fascinating display for hands on learning. Discover more about the coastal environment and the wildlife TWILIGHT ROCKPOOL RAMBLE living in it. The display, featuring live snakes, lizards and Sunday 21 January, 8–9.30pm spiders, is at the Bunurong Environment Centre. Marine life gets moving at night. See what beautiful sea creatures are up to at home when they are most active. ROCKPOOL RAMBLE Expect to get a bit wet. BYO old shoes, warm clothes, a torch Wednesday 3 January, 4–5.30pm & 5.30–7pm and enthusiasm. Bookings essential, phone the Bunurong Monday 8 January, 9–10.30am & 10.30am–12pm Environment Centre on 5674 3738. Thursday 11 January, 10.30am–12pm & 12.30–2pm Take a walk with BEC staff for a closer look at the marine plants and animals that you can find on the rock platforms. Discover some of the wonderful facts about these intertidal creatures. BYO sturdy footwear that can get wet. Bookings essential. TWILIGHT ROCKPOOL RAMBLE Thursday 4 January, 7.30–9pm Friday 5 January, 7.30–9pm Sunday 21 January, 7.30–9pm Take a closer look at the marine plants and animals that you can find on the rock platforms. Discover some of the wonderful facts about these intertidal creatures. BYO sturdy footwear that can get wet. Bookings essential.

xv MORNING EXERCISES & MARINE MEDITATION CANOE THE TARWIN Sunday 7 January, 9–10am Wednesday 17 January, 1–2.30pm A different way to appreciate the coastal environment. Start Paddle on the Tarwin River and discover some of the features the day with shoulder massages, gentle stretches, breathing of this estuarine environment. All equipment supplied. awareness and laughter, with Marjorie Jane Scott. Meet at BYO footwear that can get wet. Bookings essential, phone Eagles Nest car park. Bunurong Environment Centre 5674 3738. Activity cost $20 BEACHNESTING BIRDS per person. Friday 12 January, 8–9pm Sunset stroll & Nightwalk AT Bald hills wildlife If you enjoy visiting ocean beaches to walk, swim, surf, fish, reserve ride your horse or walk your dog, join Dr Grainne Maguire of Thursday 18 January, 8.30–10pm Birds Australia to learn more about how we can help the birds Join a Parks Victoria Ranger to enjoy the magic of the bush as that nest there. Bookings essential. the day gives way to night, then discover what else is out in the reserve in the dark. Bookings essential, phone 5683 9007 DOGS BREAKFAST Saturday 13 January, 8–9.30am BEAR GULLY Dog owners – join Coast Action and Birds Australia staff for a For bookings for Bear Gully activities phone 5683 9007. free breakfast. Find out more about dogs on beaches – when and where – FREE breakfast for dogs and humans! TWILIGHT ROCKPOOL RAMBLE Wednesday 3 January, 7.30–9pm All dogs on leash please. Meet in Rainbow Park behind the Bunurong Environment Centre. Take a walk with a Marine Parks Ranger for a close look at the marine plants and animals that you can find on the rock BENEATH THE WAVES SNORKEL EXPERIENCE platforms as the sun sets. Discover some of the wonderful Monday 15 January, 12–2pm & 2–4pm facts about these intertidal creatures. BYO sturdy footwear Coast Action invites you to join SEAL Diving Services’ qualified that can get wet. Bookings essential. instructors for a look at the stunning underwater beauty and ROCKPOOL RAMBLE the reef life at Cape Paterson on the Bunurong coast. Suitable Wednesday 10 January, 10am–12pm for people with basic swimming ability. Minimum age 10 years. All equipment supplied or BYO fins, mask, snorkel and Monday 15 January, 2.30–4pm wetsuit. Bookings essential. Activity cost $20 per person. Take a walk with a Marine Parks Ranger for a close look at the marine plants and animals that you can find on the rock CANOE SCREW CREEK platforms. Find out some of the wonderful facts about these Wednesday 17 January, 9–11am intertidal creatures. BYO sturdy footwear that can get wet. Paddle on Screw Creek and discover some of the features Numbers limited, bookings essential. of this estuarine environment. All equipment supplied. BYO footwear that can get wet. Bookings essential. Activity cost WALKERVILLE $20 per person. For bookings for Walkerville activities drop in to the kiosk or ROCKPOOL RAMBLE phone 5663 2321. Thursday 18 January, 4–5pm HARD ROCK RAMBLE Take a walk with Coast Action for a close look at the marine Saturday 6 January, 9–11am plants and animals that you can find on rock platforms. Saturday 13 January, 2–4pm Discover some of the wonderful facts about these intertidal Under the guidance of Gary Wallis, a recognised authority on creatures. BYO sturdy footwear that can get wet. Bookings local geology, take a closer look at the range of rocks exposed essential. along the Walkerville coastline including fossil limestone and INDIGENOUS COASTAL ART & CRAFT green stone. BYO sturdy footwear that can get wet. Bookings Friday 19, Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 January essential. Watch local publicity for further details of this three-day event ROCKPOOL RAMBLE that will feature displays and demonstrations of indigenous art Tuesday 9 January, 10–11.30am and craft. Learn more about how the traditional owners lived Wednesday 17 January, 3.30–5pm sustainably within the local environment. Take a walk for a close look at the marine plants and animals VENUS BAY/TARWIN LOWER that you can find on rock platforms. Discover some of the wonderful facts about these intertidal creatures. BYO sturdy LIFE IN THE TARWIN footwear that can get wet. Bookings essential. Sunday 14 January, 10am–12pm Join Waterwatch by the Tarwin River and discover some of BUSH SPOTLIGHT WALK the minibeasts that live in this estuarine environment. Bring Tuesday 16 January, 9–10.30pm footwear that can get wet. Meet on the riverbank at the 60 Step out at twilight for a short walk to see what emerges kilometre signs at north end of Tarwin Lower township. when we are usually indoors. BYO torch (optional) and sturdy shoes. Bookings essential. BEACHCOMBING Tuesday 16 January, 3.30–5pm There’s more happening here than meets the eye! Join Coast Action for a beach walk to find out what washed up with the last tide. Learn more about dunes, beach-nesting birds and sandy environments. Meet at Venus Bay No. 1 beach car park.

xvi SANDY POINT SEAGRASS CRUISES SUSTAINABLE SURFING SANDY POINT Saturday 6 January, departures at 8am, 9.30am and Friday 5 January, 9.30–11.30am & 1–3pm 11am Come and learn why surfers love the environment and have Join SEAL Diving services and Parks Victoria for a boat trip to a surf yourself. All equipment supplied. Bookings essential, the seagrass meadows of Corner Inlet Marine National Park. phone Offshore Surf School 5674 3374. Activity cost $20 per Be amazed by the beauty of the inlet and the diversity of life person. in the seagrass. Bookings essential, phone 5183 9100. Activity cost $20 per person. BEACHNESTING BIRDS Thursday 11 January, 8–9pm MARINE LIFE OF CORNER INLET Saturday 6 January, 12–5pm If you enjoy visiting ocean beaches for any reason – to swim, surf, fish ride your horse or walk your dog, join Dr Grainne Sunday 7 January, 11am–3pm Maguire of Birds Australia to learn more about how we can Get up close and personal with some of the wildlife from help the birds that nest there. Meet at the Hall in Sandy Point, under Port Welshpool’s jetties. Join a Marine Biologist to behind the General Store. learn more about Corner Inlet’s biodiversity. Meet at the Ferry Terminal. DOGS BREAKFAST Friday 12 January, 8–9.30am COASTKIDS ACTIVITIES Dog owners – join Coast Action and Birds Australia staff for a Saturday 6 January, 11am–12pm free breakfast. Find out more about dogs on beaches – when Sunday 7 January, 11am–12pm and where – FREE breakfast for Dogs and Humans! All dogs Join Coast Action for fun activities on the foreshore. Anything on leash please. Meet at the Surf Lifesaving Club access track. could happen! Meet at the Ferry Terminal. SECRETS OF THE NIGHT BUSH SPOTLIGHT WALK Sunday 14 January, 9–10.30pm SEASPRAY Enjoy the magic of the bush as the day gives way to night, LIFE IN AN ESTUARY Tuesday 9 January, 10–11.30am then discover what else is out in the coastal reserve in the dark. BYO torch (optional) and sturdy shoes. Bookings Crabs, birds, fish and shrimps. Join Waterwatch by Merrimans essential, phone Coast Action on 5183 9116. Creek and discover the life in this estuarine environment. May involve wading. Bring sturdy footwear that can get wet. Meet PORT WELSHPOOL’S SEA DAYS FESTIVAL at the car park near the boat ramp. In addition to the activities below, the festival will include NINETY MILE BEACH MARINE NATIONAL PARK DISCOVERY local maritime history and fishing displays, food, wine, WALK photography, art and craft and more. Watch local media for Sunday 13 January, 1.30–3pm further details, or call Coast Action/Coastcare on 5183 9116. More biodiversity than a rainforest! Join a Parks Victoria COASTAL WILDLIFE DISCOVERY DISPLAY Ranger for a beach walk to learn about the Ninety Mile Beach Friday 5 January, 10am–4pm Marine National Park. Be amazed at the diversity of life in Drop into this fascinating display for hands on learning. sandy environments. Meet at the car park near the boat ramp. Discover more about the coastal environment and the wildlife LOCH SPORT living in it. The display includes live snakes, lizards and spiders. Meet at the Ferry Terminal. AQUATIC BUG CHASE Tuesday 9 January, 1–2.30pm UNDERWATER PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID BRYANT AND FREDDY There are lots of little creatures living in the water. Help collect LEONG them with dipnets and study them closer under a microscope. Friday 5, Saturday 6 & Sunday 7 January, 10am–4pm There is a fascinating world to be discovered. Coast Action brings you this display of stunning underwater Meet at Dolomite Swamp near the Community Hall. imagery by professional photographers David Bryant and Freddy Leong. This is the answer for all those people who like BEACHCOMBING, BUSH TUCKER, GUNAI CULTURE AND MORE the idea of SCUBA diving but feel safer looking at the photos! Sunday 14 January, 10–11.30am Meet at the Ferry Terminal. Join us for a coastal walk to learn a little of how the traditional CREATURES FROM THE DEEP owners lived sustainably on the coast and discover what Friday 5 January, 7.30–8.30pm washed up with the last tide. Meet at Loch Sport Back Beach car park – over the causeway, right into Beach Road, then Blobfish, giant squids and blind lobsters: the amazing marine continue till you reach the car park. life of our deep seas. Join Melbourne Museum’s Dr Mark Norman as he tells the story of his discovery of the weird LIFE IN AN ESTUARY creatures from the deep in the Tasman Sea. Meet at the Ferry Friday 19 January, 11am–12pm Terminal. From crabs to pipefish, worms to plants, join Waterwatch to discover the wildlife that lives in the seagrass. Meet on the foreshore opposite the Lake Street shops.

xvii EAST GIPPSLAND RAYMOND ISLAND Activities are FREE unless WHAT LIVES WITHIN…..? equipment is required (e.g. Tuesday 9 January, 10–11am boats). Please note carefully Waterwatch displays and activities. Take a closer look at the which activities require a weird and wonderful creatures that live in the Gippsland booking to be made. Lakes. Try your hand at water testing, learn to use a microscope and find out what you can do to help improve Remember to be Sunsmart at water quality in our rivers and streams. BYO hat, sunscreen all daytime activities – wear a and drinking water. Meet at the park opposite the ferry ramp. hat, sunscreen, and shirt, and bring a drink. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. SUMMER FISHING WORKSHOP For more information about activities contact Coast Action/ Tuesday 9 January, 11am–12pm Coastcare Facilitator Glen Forster on 5152 0439 or Fishcare Summer Workshops are fun and educational, with 0408 357 343. parents encouraged to participate with their children. The 45– minute workshop includes fish identification and measuring, OCEAN GRANGE knot tying, safe fish handling and caring for fish habitat. The session concludes with hands on casting instruction and, SLIDE SHOW – WILDLIFE OF THE GIPPSLAND LAKES at selected locations, a fishing excursion. Look out for the Tuesday 9 January, 8–9pm brightly coloured Fishcare trailer and blue Fishcare uniforms. Join Coast Action/Coastcare and Parks Victoria to learn BYO Hat, sunscreen and drinking water. Meet at the park more about the unique wildlife of the Gippsland Lakes. The opposite the ferry ramp on Raymond Is. For more information lakes are recognised as a site of international significance phone Fishcare on 5152 0456 or visit www.fishcare.org.au for migrating birds as well as having a resident population of Dolphins, and a number of rare and threatened plant EAGLE POINT communities. BYO chair, insect repellent and drinks. Meet at CREATURES OF THE NIGHT the Ocean Grange jetty. Thursday 4 January, 8–9.30pm PAYNESVILLE Join Parks Victoria Rangers and learn more about the fabulous creatures of the Eagle Point Flora and Fauna Reserve. WHAT LIVES WITHIN…..? BYO torch, insect repellent, walking shoes and a sense of Saturday 6 January, as part of the Paynesville Festival. adventure. Meet at the shop in the Eagle Point Foreshore Waterwatch displays and activities. Take a closer look at the Camp Park. weird and wonderful creatures that live in the Gippsland Lakes. Try your hand at water testing, learn to use a WHAT LIVES WITHIN…..? microscope and find out what you can do to help improve Thursday 11 January, 10–11am water quality in our rivers and streams. BYO hat, sunscreen Waterwatch displays and activities. Take a closer look at the and drinking water. weird and wonderful creatures that live in the Gippsland Lakes. Try your hand at water testing, learn to use a SUMMER FISHING WORKSHOPS microscope and find out what you can do to help improve Saturday 6 January, 11am–12pm, as part of the water quality in our rivers and streams. BYO hat, sunscreen Paynesville Festival and drinking water. Meet next to the boat ramp on the Fishcare Summer Workshops are fun and educational, Mitchell River Silt Jetties. with parents encouraged to participate with their children. The 45–minute workshop includes fish identification and SUMMER FISHING WORKSHOP measuring, knot tying, safe fish handling and caring for Thursday 11 January, 11am–12pm fish habitats. The session concludes with hands on casting Fishcare Summer Workshops are fun and educational, with instruction and, at selected locations, a fishing excursion. Look parents encouraged to participate with their children. The 45– out for the brightly coloured Fishcare trailer and blue Fishcare minute workshop includes fish identification and measuring, uniforms. BYO Hat, sunscreen and drinking water. Meet on knot tying, safe fish handling and caring for fish habitats. The the foreshore in Paynesville. For more information phone session concludes with hands-on casting instruction and a Fishcare on 5152 0456 or visit www.fishcare.org.au fishing excursion. Look out for the brightly coloured Fishcare trailer and blue Fishcare uniforms. BYO hat, sunscreen, and DOLPHINS OF THE GIPPSLAND LAKES drinking water. Meet next to the boat ramp on the Mitchell Wednesday 17 January, 8–9.30pm River Silt Jetties. For more information phone Fishcare on 5152 Dolphins have made the Gippsland Lakes their home for 0456 or visit www.fishcare.org.au many years but only now are we starting to understand the dynamics of the local population. The Dolphin Research WETLAND WONDERS Institute are currently studying this group of dolphins and this Friday 12 January, 9–10.30am is your chance to hear about the research being done and the Wetlands are fascinating places that support a huge variety challenges being faced in managing a population of dolphins of birds, fish, mammals, and insects, as well as thousands of in the most popular boating and fishing location in Victoria. species of plants. Here is your chance to learn more about Contact Coast Action/Coastcare on 5152 0600 for location wetlands with DSE Wildlife Officers and maybe spot a rare bird information. or two. BYO binoculars, sturdy walking boots, hat, sunscreen and drinking water. Meet at the entrance to Macleod’s Morass on Bosworth Rd, behind the football oval.

xviii NYERIMILANG WHAT LIVES WITHIN…..? Monday 15 January, 10–11am IMAGES FROM THE DEEP Throughout January, 10am–4pm Waterwatch displays and activities. Take a closer look at the weird and wonderful creatures that live in the Gippsland A visit to Nyerimilang Historic Homestead has never looked Lakes. Try your hand at water testing, learn to use a like this. Nestled amongst the antiques is some amazing microscope and find out what you can do to help improve footage from East Gippsland’s own Beware Reef Marine water quality in our rivers and streams. BYO hat, sunscreen Sanctuary. Come and take a virtual trip below the ocean and drinking water. Meet at Apex Park on the upstream side surface and see first hand the diverse range of life in Victoria’s of the bridge over North Arm. temperate marine waters. The homestead is open 7 days a week and can be accessed from Nungurner Road. SUMMER FISHING WORKSHOP Monday 15 January, 11am–12pm LAKES ENTRANCE Fishcare Summer Workshops are fun and educational, with WALK TO THE ENTRANCE & BOAT TRIP parents encouraged to participate with their children. The 45- Friday 5 January, 9.30am–12pm minute workshop includes fish identification and measuring, Friday 12 January, 9.30am–12pm knot tying, safe fish handling and caring for fish habitats. The Join local historian and long time resident Jack Whadcoat session concludes with hands-on casting instruction and a on a walk to the historical entrance to the Gippsland Lakes. fishing excursion. Look out for the brightly coloured Fishcare Hear about the trials and tribulations faced by those who trailer and blue Fishcare uniforms. BYO Hat, sunscreen and were commanded with the task of creating a safe permanent drinking water. Meet at Apex Park on the upstream side of the passage to the ocean, and learn about the effect the bridge over North Arm. For more information phone Fishcare permanent entrance has had on the lake’s ecosystem. Finish on 5152 0456 or visit www.fishcare.org.au the day with a boat trip around the lakes and back to our NET-MAKING WORKSHOP departure point. BYO hat, sunscreen, drinking water and wear Tuesday 16 January, 2–4pm sturdy walking shoes. Meet at the Lakes Entrance Surf Club, Wednesday 17 January, 2–4pm over the footbridge. Bookings are not necessary but numbers Come and be a part of the ‘Common Ground’ experience. are limited so turn up early to avoid disappointment. Activity Join traditional and contemporary netmakers and take part in cost $5 per person for the boat trip. Children under 12 free. the fine art of net-making. Works created will be show-cased JUNIOR BIOLOGIST on Friday January 26 in a spectacular installation located at Tuesday 9 January, 10–11.30am the Lakes Entrance footbridge. Learn more about traditional Thursday 11 January, 10–11.30am fishing methods and how many cultures have learned how to Thursday 18 January, 10–11.30am fish sustainably. Meet at the Lakes Entrance Surf Club over the footbridge. Fancy yourself as a fish biologist? Keen to try your hand at dissecting? Come along and learn how to dissect a fish DOLPHINS OF THE GIPPSLAND LAKES with staff from East Gippsland TAFE and RMIT. Learn how Tuesday 16 January, 8–9.30pm to identify the main organs of a fish and discover what they Dolphins have made the Gippsland Lakes their home for had for their last meal. Suitable for all ages. All children must many years but only now are we starting to understand be accompanied by an adult. Bookings essential, phone (03) the dynamics of the local population. The Dolphin Research 5152 0600 during business hours. Institute are currently studying this group of dolphins and this ROCKPOOL CREATURE DISCOVERY is your chance to hear about the research being done and the Tuesday 9 January, 1–2pm challenges being faced in managing a population of dolphins in the most popular boating and fishing location in Victoria. Thursday 11 January, 1–2pm Contact Coast Action/Coastcare on 5152 0600 for location Thursday 18 January, 1–2pm information. Come and explore the Coast Action/Coastcare touch tank and discover the creatures that live in the rockpools of East LAKE TYerS Gippsland. Learn how a seastar captures its prey, and watch Full of history and natural beauty, Lake Tyers is famous for a sea anemone respond to prey, in a hands-on and interactive its estuary fishing and nature walks, and is home to a colony way. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Meet of threatened Little Terns. In the heathlands along the bluff at East Gippsland TAFE and RMIT facility on Bullock Island, live Long-nosed Potoroos, White-bellied Sea-Eagles, Long- opposite the fishing cooperative. nosed Bandicoots, and Powerful Owls. Here are just some of COASTAL ART AND ACTIVITIES the activities being offered by Lake Tyers Coast Action this Tuesday 9 January, 3–4pm summer. Thursday 11 January, 3–4pm Information on all activities will be posted on the notice Thursday 18 January, 3–4pm board opposite the Waterwheel Tavern and in the Lake Tyers Beachfront Holiday Resort. Fancy yourself as a budding environmental artist? Then come along and contribute to the “Summer by the Sea” coastal WHAT LIVES WITHIN…..? mural. If you’re not into art but love to complete puzzles and Thursday 4 January, 10–11am other activities, then the Coast Action/Coastcare activities Waterwatch displays and activities. Take a closer look at the book is for you. Meet at East Gippsland TAFE and RMIT facility weird and wonderful creatures that live in Lake Tyers. Try your on Bullock Island, opposite the fishing cooperative hand at water testing, learn to use a microscope, and find out what you can do to help improve water quality in our rivers and streams. BYO hat, sunscreen and drinking water. Meet at the carpark next to the Waterwheel Tavern.

xix SUMMER FISHING WORKSHOP SECRETS OF BEWARE REEF MARINE SANCTUARY Thursday 4 January, 11am–12pm Throughout January, from the 3–21 Fishcare Summer Workshops are fun and educational, with Do you enjoy SCUBA diving or snorkelling or have an interest parents encouraged to participate with their children. The 45- in marine life? Then join us as we present an evening slide minute workshop includes fish identification and measuring, show featuring the amazing underwater life from Beware knot tying, safe fish handling and caring for fish habitats. The Reef Marine Sanctuary. For more information contact Josh and session concludes with hands-on casting instruction. Look Carla at the Cape Conran cabins on (03) 5154 8438. out for the brightly coloured Fishcare trailer and blue Fishcare uniforms. BYO Hat, sunscreen and drinking water. Meet at the MALLACOOTA carpark next to the Waterwheel Tavern. For more information SUMMER FISHING WORKSHOP phone Fishcare on 5152 0456 or visit www.fishcare.org.au Thursday 18 January, 10.30–11.30am CREATURES OF THE NIGHT Fishcare Summer Workshops are fun and educational, with Thursday 11 January, 8–9.30pm parents encouraged to participate with their children. The 45- Thursday 18 January, 8–9.30pm minute workshop includes fish identification and measuring, Join Parks Victoria Rangers and learn more about the fabulous knot tying, safe fish handling and caring for fish habitats. creatures of Lake Tyers Forest Park. BYO torch, insect repellent, The session concludes with hands-on casting instruction a walking shoes and a sense of adventure. Meet at Burnt Bridge, fishing excursion. Look out for the brightly coloured Fishcare turn off 2 km east of the Lake Tyers Beach Road intersection. trailer and blue Fishcare uniforms. BYO Hat, sunscreen and drinking water. Meet on the grass at the Main Wharf. For CAPE CONRAN more information phone Fishcare on 5152 0456 or visit www. Possibly the most spectacular location on the coast, Cape fishcare.org.au Conran offers a myriad of opportunities for those wanting TWILIGHT FISHING to explore the coast. Situated near the Yeerung River, there Thursday 18 January, 6.30–7.30pm is an abundance of rockpools, miles of sandy beaches, many Come fishing with Fishcare in the cool of the evening when bushwalking tracks, and the famous Snowy River is nearby the fish are sure to bite. After some instruction, the whole in Marlo. A diverse range of flora and fauna also inhabit the family can try their hand at fishing with the assistance of area. Join former Coast Action/Coastcare Facilitator Fiona Fishcare volunteers. Parents are to supervise children at all Stevens in a range of fantastic, fun and educational activities. times. BYO fishing gear and drinking water. Bait will be For more information contact Josh and Carla at the Cape provided, and some rods will be available to loan. Look out Conran cabins on (03) 5154 8438. for the brightly coloured Fishcare trailer and blue Fishcare WHAT LIVES WITHIN…..? uniforms. Meet on the grass at the Main Wharf. For more Wednesday 17 January, 10–11am information phone Fishcare on 5152 0456 or visit www. Waterwatch displays and activities. Take a closer look at the fishcare.org.au weird and wonderful creatures that live in the Yeerung River. WHAT LIVES WITHIN…..? Try your hand at water testing, learn to use a microscope Saturday 20 January, 9–11am and find out what you can do to help improve water quality Waterwatch displays and activities. Take a closer look at the in our rivers and streams. BYO hat, sunscreen and drinking weird and wonderful creatures that live in Mallacoota Inlet. water. Meet at the Activities Centre next to the Administration Try your hand at water testing, learn to use a microscope and Office. find out what you can do to help improve water quality in our SUMMER FISHING WORKSHOP rivers and streams. BYO hat, sunscreen and drinking water. Wednesday 17 January, 11am–12pm Meet at the Mallacoota Market. Fishcare Summer Workshops are fun and educational, with parents encouraged to participate with their children. The 45- BETKA RIVER minute workshop includes fish identification and measuring, SUMMER FISHING WORKSHOP knot tying, safe fish handling and caring for fish habitats. The Friday 19 January, 10–11am session concludes with hands-on casting instruction. Look Fishcare Summer Workshops are fun and educational, with out for the brightly coloured Fishcare trailer and blue Fishcare parents encouraged to participate with their children. The 45- uniforms. BYO Hat, sunscreen and drinking water. Meet at minute workshop includes fish identification and measuring, the Activities Centre next to the Administration Office. For knot tying, safe fish handling and caring for fish habitats. more information phone Fishcare on 5152 0456 or visit www. The session concludes with hands-on casting instruction and, fishcare.org.au at selected locations, a fishing excursion. Look out for the ROCKPOOL RAMBLE brightly coloured Fishcare trailer and blue Fishcare uniforms. Throughout January, from the 3–21 BYO Hat, sunscreen and drinking water. Meet at the car park near the mouth of the Betka river. For more information The rocky platforms of Southern Australia hold a vast array phone Fishcare on 5152 0456 or visit www.fishcare.org.au of wonders just waiting to be discovered. Are you game? If so join Fiona and staff from Parks Victoria and help identify the creatures that live in this ever changing environment. BYO shoes that can get wet, hat, and sunscreen. For more information contact Josh and Carla at the Cape Conran cabins on (03) 5154 8438.

xx Mangroves – a growth industry, Barwon Heads By Stephen Tuohy, Marine Ranger – Parks Victoria

The importance of mangroves in the coastal and estuarine environment is widely recognised. They provide habitat for a diverse range of species some of which totally depend on the mangroves for survival. Their extensive roots and pneumataphores (aerial breathing roots) secure the tree and act as a trap catching sediment and organic matter, whilst protecting otherwise exposed shorelines. Mangroves are also a nursery for many invertebrate and fish species, with a vital food chain supporting a wider ecosytem. The mangroves in the lower Barwon River estuary at Barwon Heads face a number of threats, including trampling by visitors, property development and urban expansion, nutrient run-off and illegal clearing. The A number of mangrove consequence of such actions protection sites were already can result in loss of habitat, fenced along denuded sections erosion of the river bank and of the Barwon River to sedimentation in the estuary – encourage natural re- all with many flow-on effects establishment. The opportunity that impact on the wider to transplant ‘endangered’ ecosystem. juvenile mangroves was an To arrest the problem of river experiment that paid off. bank degradation along the Barwon River, Parks A team of volunteers assisted with the translocation. Victoria, in partnership with the Corangamite The technique was quite simple: dig up the plants CMA, DSE and the City of Greater Geelong, has with minimum damage to the roots and carried out a number of different works projects. pneumatophores, place them in the trailer and keep These include rock revetment walls, protective wet until transplanted on the other side of the river. fencing, revegetation, interpretive signage and Translocation of mangroves has been trialled in fishing platforms to reduce trampling by Westernport previously, but without much success. recreational fishers accessing the shoreline. Regular monitoring post-planting confirmed the Particularly interesting is a trial project that involves short-term survival rate of almost 100%. The transplanting juvenile mangroves which has had results were so good that a second transplanting excellent results. The Ocean Grove Golf Club day was organised with the assistance of a approached Parks Victoria about transplanting GreenCorps team. Overall, approximately 1000 juvenile white mangroves (Avicennia marina) from juvenile mangroves were removed from the Ocean a tidally influenced stormwater drain that passes Grove Golf Course and relocated to the Barwon through the golf course from the Barwon River. River estuary during March and April 2003. The golf course was constructing a small dam as a To date, survival rate of the transplanted way of using the roadside run-off for irrigation mangroves is about 90%. Sediment build up purposes. The creation of the dam threatened the along the estuary (low energy system) has further existence of the juvenile mangroves that had supported the natural regeneration of mangroves, established themselves in the watercourse. particularly at the rear of the fenced trial plots.

11 The first International Youth Coastal Conference By Catherine Clancy

The first International Youth Coastal Conference Conference convenor Arron Wood from was held recently in Melbourne. It was sponsored Firestarter said, “Students that have access to this by DSE through the Coast Action/Coastcare type of learning will be more able to promote a program and the Victorian Coastal Council. The sense of community as they become leaders and conference was about capturing the passion decision-makers.” for our environment and igniting this passion. The involvement of celebrities such as Kylie Smith I’m happy to say it certainly did that. Young from the TV program Totally Wild and public Australians are 20% of our population but are figures such as Rob Gell reinforced the conference 100% of our future. Fortunately, they’re 100% theme that young people can make a positive full of enthusiasm for action for the environment. contribution to environmental change. Three hundred students from around Australia and If we are to manage our natural resources New Zealand attended with their teachers. responsibly into the future, it is forums for our A huge amount of effort was put in by the steering youth such as this Coastal Conference that committee, the conference convenors from demonstrate that education is an essential tool for Firestarter and its volunteers, the teachers, the cultural change. If done effectively, all decision- parents and the students themselves. Together, makers at every level and field of employment they made this conference – the first of kind in the in the future world – a huge success. will have the information The theme for the International Youth Coastal needed to make Conference was our oceans, so students had environmentally- to design their presentations and interactive conscious workshops around this theme. The concurrent decisions. sessions involved hands-on, student-centred learning in an effort to bring about cultural change in the way we perceive our marine and coastal environments. The ‘Kids teaching Kids’ model was the educational strategy used, which was a great success. Working as a team, students had the common goal of raising awareness amongst their peers about the health of our marine and coastal environments. The workshops they ran were interactive and engaging. Although mentors from the scientific community, conference convenors and accompanying teachers provided support to the participating students and guidance to access information, it was the ‘kids’ who delved into the depths of the issues and presented their topics thoroughly, developing a passion for positive and empowering actions.

12 Taking a dive that counts Great Victorian Fish Count, 1–16 December 2006 By Wendy Roberts, Reef Watch Coordinator

Victoria’s marine fish species are unique, with more than 80 per cent of the 700 known species endemic to our southern waters. These fish are weird, wonderful and some, such as the Weedy Sea dragon, are as uniquely Australian as the kangaroo. Unfortunately very few studies have been done on the majority of fish that live just off our shores in the seagrass beds, rocky reefs of sponge gardens. The Great Victorian Fish Count aims to conduct an annual census that will increase our understanding of the geographical distribution are abundance of 25 key reef fish species. Held for the first time in 2005, divers and snorkellers will come together again this year to survey reef fish species along the Victorian coast. From Cape Conran to Portland, volunteers armed with fish identification charts will delve below the surface in search of iridescent and solitary Blue-Devil fish, schools of Sweep and harems of Blue-throat Wrasse. Friends of Marine National Parks and Sanctuaries are once again invited to participate. The project is funded by the Natural Heritage Trust through the Port Phillip and Westernport Catchment Management Authority. For more information contact Wendy Roberts, Reef Watch Victoria, phone (03) 8341 7446, info@ reefwatchvic.asn.au, or www.reefwatchvic.asn.au Marine Seminar Series By Dianne Moore Join Coast Action/Coastcare during national Coastcare Week at one of seven statewide marine seminars. Find out about Victoria’s amazing temperate marine environment and how you can get involved and take a closer look. Many seminars involve field-based activities, but bookings are essential so get in early to avoid missing this fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in our marine wonderland. All seminars include lunch or supper. WHEN WHERE BOOKINGS Thursday 30 November 6:30–9pm Multipurpose Facility, Barwon Heads 5226 4669 Saturday 2 December 10am–1pm Warrnambool 5561 9955 Monday 4 December 7–9pm Lighthouse Keepers Inn, Aireys Inlet 5263 3712 Tuesday 5 December 7–9pm Pt Leo Boat Club, Pt Leo 9296 4532 Wednesday 6 December 7–9pm Port Phillip EcoCentre, St Kilda 9296 4525 Saturday 9 December 10am–12pm Bunurong Environment Centre, Inverloch 5183 9116 Sunday 10 December 3–6pm Cape Conran Coastal Park, Cape Conran 5152 0439 13 Regional Coastal Boards By Andrew Buckley, Executive Officer, Victorian Coastal Council

Victoria is fortunate to have a functioning and independent advisory structure in the Victorian Coastal Council (VCC) and three Regional Coastal Boards. Established under the Coastal Management Act 1995, these Boards provide independent advice to the Minister for Environment, undertake statewide and regional strategic planning and advocate for the coast. The Western, Central and Gippsland Coastal Boards celebrate ten years of operation this year, following the tenth birthday of the Victorian Coastal Council last year. The Minister for Environment, John Thwaites, announced the appointment of new members to each of the three Boards for a three-year term on 1 August 2006. Lynn Murrell, Chair, Appointments to the Boards are based on skills and made by the Minister for Western Coastal Board Environment, following public advertisement. The functions of Regional Coastal Boards include: • developing Coastal Action Plans within the region; • providing advice to the Minister on coastal development in the region and any other matters referred to it by the Minister; • providing advice to the Council on coastal development in the region and any other matters referred to it by the Council; • preparing and publish guidelines for coastal planning and management in the region, with the approval of the Council; • facilitating the implementation in the region of the Victorian Coastal Strategy, Coastal Action Plans and approved coastal guidelines for the region; and • facilitating local public awareness, consultation and involvement in the development and implementation of the Victorian Coastal Strategy, Coastal Liz Johnstone, Chair, Action Plans and approved coastal guidelines for their region. Central Coastal Board The development of Coastal Action Plans is a key role for the Boards and an obvious point of contact for members of Coast Action/Coastcare groups. Coast Action/Coastcare works with the Boards to develop and deliver coastal grant projects (eg. NHT), prepare and co-ordinate on-ground works, implement the Coastal Action Plans, and support community engagement programs and projects. The Boards provide a voice at larger strategic forums for coastal projects in regions and actions of the local community in relation to outcomes of Coastal Action Plans and various strategies. They also provide links to coastal Catchment Management Authority Boards and can be an advocate for support of coastal and marine projects and priorities. This includes the development and implementation of coastal and marine priorities in Duncan Malcolm, Chair, regional catchment strategies. Gippsland Coastal Board For more information on the Victorian Coastal Council go to www.vcc.vic.gov.au. For information on the Western Coastal Board visit www.westerncoastalboard. vic.gov.au for the Central Coastal Board visit www.ccb.vic.gov.au or for the Gippsland Coastal Board visit www.gcb.vic.gov.au.

14 Catchments and our Coasts By Peter J Beaton, NAP/NHT Programs Office – DSE

Victoria’s coastal Catchment Management The CMAs’ regional connection also allows for Authorities’ role in the health of our coasts begins combined activities with Coast Action/Coastcare, a long way from the beach. WaterWatch, FishCare, Landcare and other groups. In consultation with the community, Catchment According to John Amor, Coast Action/Coastcare Management Authorities (CMAs) are Facilitator for the South West region when the responsible for developing and coordinating the CMAs began work on their Regional Catchment implementation of Regional Catchment Strategies Strategies the regions didn’t have the coastal (RCSs) that provide a guide for integrated planning expertise they needed, so they called in Coast and management of land, water and biodiversity in Action/Coastcare and the Regional Coastal Boards. their regions. “That gave us the chance to integrate our own Last financial year, the five coastal CMAs put more activities and expertise into the RCSs, so that Lynn Murrell, Chair, than $52 million into environmental projects. That we were all working as one towards a healthier Western Coastal Board included more than $29 million directly from the coast,” John said. State Government, $12 million from the Australian Today, that translates into the CMAs providing Government’s Natural Heritage Trust (NHT), and funding for Coast Action/Coastcare activities and $10 million from the joint Victorian and Australian plenty of recognition for coastal issues in regional Government funded National Action Plan for planning. Salinity and Water Quality (NAP). “It means the coast now has a voice upstream,” With that funding, the five CMAs – Glenelg said John. Hopkins, Corangamite, Port Phillip and Westernport, West Gippsland and East Gippsland “Most of these activities are community-related – backed projects covering salinity and erosion and conducted in partnership with one group or control, water quality, river health, land and another. Our direct connection to the CMA helps biodiversity management. us make those achievements possible,” John said. Liz Johnstone, Chair, The strength of the CMAs lies in their integrated Working together, the CMAs, Coast Action/ Central Coastal Board approach to natural resource management. Coastcare and other groups are raising the profile of Every project is part of the bigger picture, which coastal and marine issues. They are also contributing means most are designed to provide benefits to the sustainability of the coastal and marine downstream, all the way to the coast. environments and building healthy communities.

Duncan Malcolm, Chair, Gippsland Coastal Board

Victoria has 10 Catchment Management Authorities (CMAs) – five are on the coast.

15 Regional Updates

From the South West By Michael Noelker & John Amor Environment Plan for Great Ocean Road Coast A good management plan should provide an eye to the future, but be based firmly in the present. This is what the Great Ocean Road Coast Committee has achieved by preparing an Environment and Land Management Plan for the coastline between building on the success of Coast Action/Coastcare Torquay and Lorne on the south west coast. and friends groups and other organisations already working in our region,” said the Committee’s The plan was prepared with input from key Executive Officer, David Clarke. stakeholder and community representatives, including a series of community workshops that The plan pulls no punches and identifies weeds as discussed issues and opportunities for managing the biggest threat to the reserve. natural values. A draft plan was released for public The Plan states: “Invasion of indigenous comment during August 2006. vegetation and fauna habitats by environmental Importantly, the plan outlines a number of weeds is the overwhelming environmental fundamental directions and key goals to ensure management issue in the study area. This issue sustainable management of our coastline, one of dwarfs all other biodiversity management issues these being increasing community involvement in combined and this will remain the case, whatever management of the coastline. global climate changes occur”. “The plan highlights the important role that the Visit the Committee’s website at www.gorcc.com.au general community has in coastal management, for a copy of the plan.

From Port Phillip East By Denis Cox and Phillip Wierzbowski International help for Corinella attempts to reduce shore erosion in Westernport. The Common Heath was in bloom when the Enthusiasm was a bit misdirected recently when Corinella Committee of Management (CoM) a volunteer attempted to jump into Tim’s car as hosted a team from International Student he was driving off, oblivious of the additional Volunteers from 22 July to 4 August. The passenger. Unfortunately the volunteer fell and volunteers, from the USA, England and Scotland, was taken to the Wonthaggi hospital with a planted indigenous vegetation as part of the broken leg. Tim agrees that the Coast Action/ Committee’s heathland development project. Coastcare OH&S training is very timely. But all work and no play wasn’t the aim of the Work Day at Eastern Cliffs game and the Committee organised a quick trip The Eastern Cliffs project at Somers took to Wilsons Prom, where they had a close another step forward with assistance from a very encounter of the wombat kind, and the obligatory competent Conservation Volunteers Australia viewing of the Penguin Parade at Phillip Island. The group. The work day saw plenty of activity volunteers had a great time, thanks to many locals – weeding, layout of weed mat and planting. and contributed to the fine work undertaken by Rosemary Birney, Secretary of the Somers volunteer the Corinella CoM. Committee, gave high praise to the group and Reducing Shore Erosion said residents who have walked along their new Enthusiastic volunteer assistants have been tracks have commented positively on the obvious planting mangroves to support Dr Tim Ealey in his improvements being made.

16 Regional Updates

From Port Phillip West By Dianne Moore Port Phillip’s colourful marine wonderland A Geelong dive club, Bay City Divers, has undertaken a marine monitoring project in the Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park. Their skills in underwater photography have helped produce an amazing calendar for 2007 of images taken over the past 12 months. The calendar shows the diversity of animals and plants in the temperate waters of Port Phillip Heads Marine National Park; highlighting the colourful environment that lies below the water level. Calendars have been distributed throughout the surrounding communities of Queenscliff, Pt Lonsdale, Sorrento and Portsea. A display has also been produced that will be used at events, schools and is available on loan. The project was funded through the Australian Government’s Envirofund program and used Reef Watch monitoring procedures throughout the 12 months of survey work. For those interested in undertaking a similar project in your area, please contact your local facilitator for assistance. If you would like to find out more about this project, please contact Dianne Moore, phone (03) 5226 4669.

Continued overleaf 17 Regional Updates

From South Gippsland By Bruce Atkin New publication A newly published brochure gives an introduction to the animals and plants found in soft sediment areas. Living Between the Tides 2 – Muddy Bottoms, was a joint effort between Coast Action, Parks Victoria and South Gippsland Environmental Education and Interpretation. It complements the earlier Living Between the Tides – Guide to life on rocky shores and is similar in layout and presentation. Invasive Bridal creeper. South Gippsland Coast Action/Coastcare facilitator New group Bruce Atkin identified a need for this guide when A new group, the Friends of Venus Bay Peninsula, leading interpretive activities around the shallow has hit the ground running this year, putting lots bays and estuaries along his stretch of coast. The of work into an integrated Bridal Creeper control firstLiving Between the Tides is a great handout program and instigating a survey of Bandicoots in for participants in rockpool walks but there was no the coastal zone. The group also has an application equivalent for people visiting seagrass, saltmarsh with Envirofund for funding to enable revegetation or mangrove areas. Although these areas are of a small area of public land in the township to sometimes regarded as unattractive, particularly at promote the use of local indigenous plants and is low tide, the guide will help people appreciate the participating in the Birds Australia beachnesting importance of their natural diversity. birds project.

From East Gippsland By Glen Forster Spring and Summer are busy times on the coast and 2006 is certainly no exception. The highlight this year has been the attendance of Lakes Entrance Secondary College at the 2006 International Youth Coastal Conference. The college put together a presentation simply titled “The Entrance”. As the name suggests it delved into the history of the creation of the entrance, its importance to the local fishing and tourism industry as well as the impact it has had upon the lakes environment. I would like to congratulate all the students, staff and helpers in Students from Lakes Entrance Secondary putting this together. College take a trip at Lakes Entrance. Another significant achievement has been Other significant initiatives also include the first formation of HNEG! HNEG (Habitat Network round of OH&S training for volunteer coordinators, East Gippsland) is a new initiative spearheaded the launch of the MarineCare initiative, and of by the local community which has expressed a course, Summer by the Sea 2007. I would also desire to work more closely together as a means like to remind people that Coast Action/Coastcare for delivering better outcomes both for the funding for on-ground projects is available for the environment and for themselves. Coast Action is current financial year and interested groups should very proud to support this initiative and to sponsor contact Glen Forster, phone (03) 5152 0439 for the HNEG website. Visit www.hneg.org.au. more information.

18 Coast Action/Coastcare Facilitators

Gippsland Region Western Region Bairnsdale Anglesea Glen Forster Michael Noelker Tel: 5152 0439 Tel: 5263 3715 Mob: 0408 357 343 Mob: 0409 332 197 E-mail: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Yarram Warrnambool Bruce Atkin John Amor Tel: 5183 9116 Tel: 5561 9955 Mob: 0429 842 142 Mob: 0429 976 189 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] ______Port Phillip Region Box Hill Melbourne City Office Denis Cox Catherine Clancy Tel: 9296 4532 State Program Co-ordinator Mob: 0409 958 050 Tel: 9637 9742 E-mail [email protected] Mob: 0411 258 318 Phillip Wierzbowski E-mail: [email protected] Tel: 9296 4525 Erin Nash Mob: 0411 409 815 Summer Activities Program Project Officer E-mail: [email protected] Tel: 03 9412 4237 Geelong E-mail: [email protected] Dianne Moore Tel: 5226 4669 Visit our web site at: E-mail: [email protected] www.dse.vic.gov.au/coasts

19 Coastline Subscription Renewal In the spirit of looking after our environment and conserving our natural resources, Coast Action/Coastcare is moving towards the electronic era of e-newsletters. E-newsletters save hundreds of dollars on printing and postage. This summer sees Coastline published in hard copy, but in the future we want to reduce the number of magazines printed. To continue to receive Coastline we invite you to renew your subscription and let us know if you would prefer to receive it by e-mail. Please e-mail [email protected] and be sure to include your name, e-mail address and daytime phone number in the text. Or, if you wish to receive a hard copy magazine, please write to Coastline Subscription, Coast Action/Coastcare, PO Box 500 East Melbourne Victoria 3002 and we will mail future editions to you. If you would like to make suggestions about the content of Coastline, e-mail us at [email protected] to have your say. .

Coastline Editors: Catherine Clancy & Carolyn Munckton This publication may be of assistance to you but the State of Victoria and its employees do not guarantee that the publication is without flaw of any kind or is wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or other consequence which may arise from you relying on any information in this publication.

20 Coastline The Coast Action/Coastcare Newsletter ISBN 1329-0835 Edition 39 Autumn 2007

Communities caring for our coast Photo by drew ryan drew by Photo

 State Program Coordinator’s Message By Catherine Clancy

Autumn is such a precious time of year. The still Staff Changes days with their clear blue sunny skies often provide We thank Madeline Glynn for her valuable, the clarity and stillness to reflect on the activities of however brief stint as a Coast Action facilitator spring and summer and to acknowledge just how and we welcome back Tracey Pennington from far we have come. maternity leave. We celebrate the achievements of the dedicated Planning band of volunteers that work so passionately for Embracing the beauty and stillness of autumn, the coast and marine conservation. Volunteers who I urge groups to take time out from their action have been committed to finding out more about orientation focus to reflect and revisit your group’s the unique values of their local area, become objectives and vision for the future. Perhaps give aware of the issues that may threaten these your Coast Action/Coastcare facilitator a call and/or intrinsic values and take action to protect these dedicate part of your next meeting to revise where places, whether they be one of our magnificent your group is heading and what are your passions. reefs, an amazing estuary, a peninsula, or the Consider what resources you would like to attract habitat of a threaten species. or what your next project may look like. This summer saw some of the real effects of By defining the goals, visions and objectives of your climate change as the drought continues, water group, members will be able to connect with their becomes a highly valued commodity and the passions and collectively work together towards biggest bushfires in the State’s history swept across these goals with a clear sense of direction. Being Victoria burning more than 1.1 million hectares. proactive in developing plans enables a group to be ready to maximize funding opportunities when This very demanding season meant that all the they arise. Coast Action team members were involved in fire response roles as well as keeping the Summer Enjoy being creative and thank you for caring for Activities rolling along with the support of volunteers our coasts. and contractors. In Gippsland, as communities Regards became threatened by the fire front and embers, Catherine some of the Summer Activities were cancelled. Holiday makers flocked to the west coast and we experienced unprecedented numbers with 30–60 people on waiting lists for many of the activities. East Gippsland Coast Action/Coastcare facilitator Glen Forster has just coordinated a fantastic Easter Activities Program as part of a tourism lead recovery for Gippsland. While at the other end of the State, Coast Action/Coastcare facilitator John Amor, with his Parks Victoria and wildlife management background, has been extensively involved in the rehabilitation of the coastal koalas post the Framlingham fires. To lessen our footprint on the environment and in the spirit of continuous improvement, we have taken the gloss out of Coastline and we are launching a new electronic version. This can be found at www.dse.vic.gov.au/coasts. I hope you like the new look Coastline. Summer Activity in action.

 Caring for our Marine Environment from community awareness to active participation and management By Ben Camm, (while working for the Marine Discovery Centre)

Victoria’s coastal communities have long been stewards of our marine environments to varying degrees. Whether it be fishers recognising environmental changes, a diver’s knowledge of a local reef, or a town planner conscious of coastal environments, they all have an important role to paly. As we are all aware, there are also many community groups actively involved with the conservation, protection, management and education of local marine ecosystems. Cape Conran Caring for our Marine Environment The Caring for our Marine Environment project workshop. set out to connect community members with an interest in their local marine environment. The train a dog to stay on the island and watch over aim was to bring new people into contact with the penguins 24/7. The results have been stunning experienced marine people and build knowledge (see page 15 for the full story). and skills, and inspire new ideas and collaboration. For those unable to make it to a seminar, the Invitations went out to sailing clubs, walking articles were summarised in a brochure that groups, birds watchers, surfers, fisher people, boat is available from your regional Coast Action/ owners, surf life savers as well as Coast Action Coastcare facilitator. groups and Foreshore Committees of Management With local community groups in attendance and – everyone who interacts with their local marine outlining their work, these seminars were a perfect environment. meeting place for people looking to get involved. A seminar was held in each of the seven Coast The Caring for our Marine Environment project Action/Coastcare regions from December through has stirred people’s passions and identified to April. The seminars emphasised the importance opportunities that people can get involved in. of a broad knowledge base in the protection and The local Coast Action /Coastcare facilitators management of local marine areas. We discussed will be following up on the inspirations to assist unique marine diversity and heard some amazing groups with writing project proposals and grant local stories of encounters with whales, dolphins applications. So if you have an interest for your local and even strange fish that left many mouths agape. marine environment and want to get more involved Many of these are vital to local environmental contact your Coast Action facilitator and they will history but are yet to be documented. connect you with others that share this passion and The project also supported local groups with together will can build active collaborations. ideas for funding and links to other groups from around the state who were all willing to share their experiences. Groups from all seven regions provided articles outlining their success and failures over the years. These were available at each seminar and provided an amazing resource of ideas, experiences and contacts. One example was how the Warrnambool community had tried, without success, to stop the destruction of a Little Penguin rookery by feral John Ariens (centre front) led the snorkelling cats, dogs and foxes. With the situation looking part of the Caring for our Marine Environment dire, an idea from a community member saw them workshop at Cape Conran.

 A new tool for estuary managers – the Estuary Entrance Management Support System By Graeme Jeffery, Glenelg Hopkins CMA

Estuary management in Victoria has received a This is commonly done with heavy machinery but boost with the development of a new decision can also be done by hand in some cases. support tool called the Estuary Entrance Artificial river mouth openings can carry a high Management Support System (EEMSS). risk of damage to the health of the estuary. An Estuaries are one of our most valuable natural obvious risk is causing a mass fish kill. T his has assets, providing spawning and nursery grounds occurred several times in Victoria as a result of for fish and breeding and foraging areas for birds. artificial openings being done under the wrong They are also a popular tourist destination and conditions. Less obvious but possibly no less provide important recreational opportunities such damaging are risks of contributing to the long- as fishing, bird watching and boating. term decline in estuary health as a result of impacts such as premature drainage of wetlands and the They are also highly complex natural environments. disruption of fish spawning. In Victoria many estuaries intermittently close Developed by Deakin University through a project following the formation of a sand bar at the funded by the Australian Government’s Natural mouth of the estuary. This is a natural process Heritage Trust, the EEMSS provides estuary and results in increased water levels in the estuary. managers with a powerful tool for properly High water levels bring significant environmental accounting for all of the likely risks involved with benefits when adjoining wetlands and fringing decisions to artificially open a river mouth, or

vegetation are flooded. JUNE conversely a decision not to artificially open. In However the land around estuaries has also addition to its use as a decision support tool, become a focal point for development due to the the EEMSS also provides sound guidance for fertile nature of floodplain land and the obvious the management of estuaries overall through benefits of living near a picturesque open water- the establishment of important baseline data body. In order to reduce the impact of high such as records of river mouth openings, water water levels on socio-economic assets, it is often levels, water quality data, and species lists. This necessary to open closed river mouths artificially. information can be stored and queried through the database function of the system. Development of the EEMSS was guided by a multi-agency steering group and community consultation was key to the development process. The EEMSS was trialled with local communities at AUGUST four estuaries in southwest Victoria and the system has been well received by these communities. Implementation of the EEMSS at Victoria’s seasonally closed estuaries will occur over the next 12 months. For further information contact: Graeme Jeffery at the Glenelg Hopkins CMA, phone (03) 55712526 or email at [email protected] .

Artificial river mount opening, Yambuk estuary, August 2005. j u l y

 Estuaries – monitoring an ever changing environment by Dianne Moore, Coast Action/Coastcare Facilitator, Port Phillip West

Estuaries are an integral part of Victoria’s coastline filtering pollutants, acting as buffers to protect and are regularly used for swimming, boating shorelines from erosion and flooding, and and fishing activities. E stuary is the word used providing food and habitat for birds, fish and other to describe where fresh water from a river mixes wildlife. with salt water from the sea. Examples in the “Our communities have told us that they’re Corangamite region include the lower reaches concerned for their local estuaries, because they of the Barwon River around Barwon Heads and are the central point of many coastal towns” she into Lake Connewarre, the Anglesea River around said. Anglesea and Wild Dog Creek at Apollo Bay. “EstuaryWatch will give locals a wide variety of Estuaries are a complex environment and one fun opportunities to learn about their local estuary. which there is still much to learn. Particularly The scientific monitoring program will also provide interesting are the issues surrounding river mouth invaluable information about the natural processes closures and associated impacts on estuarine happening in our estuaries, and about the health health, fish stocks and wader birds. It is recognised of our estuaries”, said Kate. that estuaries need special management and local communities can assist in this process. During Sea Week, Barwon Heads celebrated with their annual ‘Festival of the Sea’. The Wednesday In the Corangamite Catchment Management Seminar this year focussed on estuaries with Kate Authority (CCMA) region there are more than 40

JUNE Wynn providing an overview of the EstuaryWatch estuaries. The CMA identified that a program program. Estuary monitoring activities followed in similar to Waterwatch could assist in management the afternoon with more than 15 interested locals decisions. The EstuaryWatch program was registering to join the Barwon River EstuaryWatch established with the aim of involving local residents program. in monitoring their estuary by providing residents with training, skills, knowledge and equipment. There are five estuaries which the CCMA will be targeting this year for EstuaryWatch. They include EstuaryWatch Co-ordinator, Kate Wynn, says the Painkalac Creek Estuary (Aireys Inlet), the estuaries play an important environmental role, Gellibrand River Estuary (Princetown), the Erskine River Estuary (Lorne), the Anglesea River Estuary and the Barwon River Estuary. “This is an opportune time for EstuaryWatch to

AUGUST begin. Due to drought, many of our estuaries have very low water levels – making it a great time to be monitoring estuaries and capturing information about their health,” said Kate. If you would like to become involved in monitoring these estuaries, contact Kate Wynn at the Corangamite CMA on phone (03) 5232 9100 or email [email protected] .

A volunteer undertakes a water turbitity test on the Barwon Estuary.

 Statewide Coastal Acid Sulfate Soils Strategy By Rebecca Price, Strategic Planning and Policy Officer, DSE

Victoria has commenced the development of a What we have so far strategy for the management of Coastal Acid Work has commenced on a number of elements Sulfate Soils (CASS) across the state. required to build a strategy for CASS in Victoria. These include: Why does Victoria need a strategy • Preliminary risk mapping 1:100,000. for CASS? • ePA Industrial Waste Management Policy (Waste Disturbance of coastal acid sulphate soils has not Acid Sulphate Soils) and Information Bulletin historically been a significant issue in Victoria, – Management of Waste Soil and Rock. however increasing urbanisation along the coast • recent strengthening of the State Planning and increased intensity of use within settlements is Policy Framework and the Environment Impact leading to pressure to use areas which may contain Assessment Guidelines. this soil. • best practice management guidelines from other jurisdictions that can be adapted for Victorian The Coastal Spaces Initiative 2006 recognised the circumstances. increasing risks from CASS in Victoria and the need • national Atlas and CASS knowledge initiative. for a strategic approach to management of CASS consistent with the National Policy framework.

Draft Victorian Coastal Strategy coming soon … By Cathy Ronalds, Coastal Policy Officer, DSE

What’s your vision for our coast? Tell us what you think. The Victorian Coastal Strategy (2002) is currently being reviewed to make way for an updated Draft (2007). The Strategy is prepared and reviewed under the Coastal Management Act 1995 by the Victorian Coastal Council. The 2002 Strategy is highly considered overseas. The upcoming Draft Strategy will build on those strengths. One of our biggest challenges on the coast is going to be climate change, which will be a feature of this Draft. The Draft will be the third in ten years – each one planning for a five-year horizon. Victoria’s 20-year vision for the coast is carried out through actions for previously identified and new emerging issues. The Draft will be available for public comment for six weeks at the end of June. The Victorian Coastal Council welcomes your comments. Keep watching the Victorian Coastal Council’s website www.vcc.vic.gov.au or your local newspaper for more information.

 Statewide Coastal Acid Sulfate Soils Strategy By Rebecca Price, Strategic Planning and Policy Officer, DSE

What will a CASS strategy achieve? Who will develop the Strategy? • an effective planning policy framework in Development of the strategy is being guided by Victoria that places emphasis on avoiding CASS a steering committee with membership from the disturbance. Department of Sustainability and Environment • development of Information and Assessment (Chair), the Victorian Coastal Council, Department requirements that lead to consistent of Primary Industries (Vic) and the Environment investigation of CASS in development approvals. Protection Authority (Vic). • Clear and agreed responsibilities for all aspects Funding has been received through the Natural of CASS within Government including the Heritage Trust and the Victorian Environmental management of intellectual property and Sustainability Action Statement. improved access to shared data. • Capacity building and awareness of appropriate Want further information? decision makers, land managers and developers. Please contact Rebecca Price, Department • an increased confidence in the accuracy and of Sustainability and Environment on phone quality of CASS soil investigations data for (03) 9637 8551 or email coastal areas at risk from development and land [email protected] use change.

Coastalinks – Internet access to all things coastal By Andrew Buckley, Executive Officer, Victorian Coastal Council

A major new web portal has been created to provide a single entry point for all things coastal and marine in Victoria. The Coastalinks Victoria website was launched in March by the Victorian Coastal Council (VCC) in association with the Western, Central and Gippsland Coastal Boards. Coastlinks will improve sharing and access to coastal and marine information for the community and Government agencies,” says Diane James, VCC Chairman. “It will facilitate coordination and help ensure an integrated approach is taken in planning and management Victoria’s coast and marine waters.” Coastalinks Victoria will help Victorians connect to topics as diverse as beaches, fishing, catchments and marine national parks. Currently the website links to 62 stakeholders websites, plus several hundred more websites of organisations such as related peak bodies and interest groups. Different search options are available including an alphabetic list, keyword search, an interactive coast map, a topic map and a navigation column. To explore the new portal visit www.coastlinks.vic.gov.au

 Framlingham Post-fire Koala Rescue and Relocation Operation By Claire Tesselaar, Biodiversity/Planning Officer, DSE

On the 10th of January this year a fire burnt through theA boriginal- owned Framlingham forest, a coastal woodland near Warrnambool. More than 95% of the bush was destroyed, causing a major impact on local wildlife. The main group of animals affected was the local koala population. Few were able to escape the fire. Many that did survive suffered burns and smoke inhalation. To make matters worse, those that were left were faced with starvation, with only a small amount of remnant vegetation and very little nearby food resources nearby or corridors to reach them further afield. As it was apparent that the forest was not going to be able to support the surviving animals for many years to come, and because many still required veterinary attention, the decision was made to conduct a koala rescue and relocation program. The local response began with authorised DSE wildlife officers conducting an initial assessment of the fire-affected area to provide any necessary wildlife care or euthanasia. As soon as the area was deemed safe, others began to get involved. More than 150 people contributed to the recovery operation, including wildlife veterinarians and vet nurses, professional tree climbers and koala catchers, a wildlife management consultancy, members of wildlife care organisations, and the Framlingham Aboriginal Trust. A large number of volunteers were also involved, including many who regularly give their time to volunteer groups like the Coast Action/Coastcare program. The rescue process involved bringing koalas safely down from trees and having a veterinarian check them. A decision was then made on whether the animal was fit to be released to an alternative location, or if it required immediate treatment and further care in a wildlife shelter. Those animals that were fit to be relocated were released in State Forest areas further west. In all, about 350 animals were assessed over the five weeks of the operation. The small number of remaining koalas is believed to be sustainable for the recovering vegetation, however a careful eye will be kept on the population to ensure things stay that way. Volunteers contributed to all aspects of the rescue effort, performing jobs ranging from koala spotting and handling to transport and first aid, as well as providing other support such as sourcing gum leaves for shelter animals and helping wash the piles of dirty towels that were generated. Much of the effort wouldn’t have been possible without their assistance. Their participation meant that we achieved ryan drew e, scu the equivalent of more than 400 days of searching for and capturing a re a animals within the Framlingham Forest. l : Koa : s hoto p

 Diving to find the treasures of Beware Reef Marine Sanctuary By Glen Forster, Coast Action/Coastcare Facilitator East Gippsland

Beware Reef Marine Sanctuary is one of 24 marine In 2003, with the support of Coast Action/Coastcare, protected areas located in Victoria’s coastal waters. the Bairnsdale SCUBA club was successful in Marine National Parks and Marine Sanctuaries obtaining a Federal Government grant to take an protect 5.5% of Victoria’s marine environment inventory of the fish species found on or around and were chosen as examples of the different the reef. The project involved members diving the habitat type and ecological communities found in reef on a regular basis throughout the next year and temperate Australia. photographing and identifying both resident and migratory fish. So far more than 60 species of fish Beware Reef Marine Sanctuary covers 220 have been recorded at the reef, with an average of hectares and is located 5 km south east of Cape three to five new fish found every year. Conran, approximately 19 km east of the mouth of the Snowy River at Marlo. The reef was given The Friends of Beware Reef incorporated in 2006 its name due to a series of maritime incidents at and it was decided the next project was to make the reef, which resulted in the wrecking of the all this information available to the public. The SS Auckland in 1871, the SS Ridge Park in 1878 group determined that a DVD would be the best and the Albert San in 1919. The wrecks of the way to present this information, allowing non- Auckland and Ridge Park are clearly visible on divers to take an interactive trip below the water the bottom of the ocean while the Albert San to see first-hand the amazing array of life and has recently been re-discovered by the Friends of maritime history the reef has to offer. This project, Beware Reef. supported and funded by Coast Action/Coastcare, is due for completion soon. The Friends of Beware Reef were formed by members of the Bairnsdale and District SCUBA Next on the horizon for the Friends is an ambitious club around 12 months ago. Members of the club project to catalogue the vast array of invertebrate had been diving the reef for many years prior to life on the reef. A conservative estimate would it being declared a Marine Sanctuary and were put the invertebrate population at more than a becoming increasingly interested in the reef as a thousand with some of these likely to be species place of ecological and scientific significance. never before identified. s e c r u o s e R ater ater W ent & & ent m ron vi n E f ent o ent m art p e D © © er k a B hoto: John John hoto: p Friends of Beware Reef from left Don Love, John Ariens and Alan Wilkins with the reef in the background.

 Victorian Coastal Awards for Excellence 2007

The 2007 Victorian Coastal Awards for Excellence were presented at an awards ceremony on 26 April at Amello at the St. Kilda Sea Baths Complex. The Awards are a joint initiative between the Coast Action/Coastcare and the Victorian Coastal Council. This year, 35 finalists for 11 categories were chosen from 79 entries. Congratulations to the winners and finalists and to all entrants for their fine work and contribution to our precious coasts. Category Lifetime Achievement John Ariens (Winner) Margaret MacDonald John Ariens has made a huge contribution to marine and Margaret has been involved in many community and school heritage conservation across the state. In particular, he has groups on coastal projects in the Anglesea to Grassy Creek been an active member of the East Gippsland community for area. She also gets involved in statutory and strategic more than 20 years. He is a life member of the Bairnsdale planning process to ensure that coastal development is SCUBA club, a founding member of the Bairnsdale Underwater undertaken in a manner that has very little impact on the Naturalists and has been a Coast Action volunteer since the environment. Her ongoing motivation and enthusiasm for the program began. He has spent thousands of hours in the natural environment has resulted in improved sustainability water surveying wrecks, counting fish, identifying marine through the removal of many weeds in the Anglesea region invertebrates and working diligently to protect our precious and the education of many people. marine assets. He has also made a significant contribution on land; conducting many seminars and presentations on marine life to schools groups, community associations, and overseas guests.

Outstanding Individual Professional Community Harry Breidahl (Winner) Tim Allen Margaret MacDonald (Winner) Harry has worked for more than 20 Tim is a marine biologist whose (see above) years in marine and coastal education contribution to the Victorian marine John Ariens as a secondary school teacher and environment and its preservation and (see above) university lecturer, author and researcher. protection over an extended period of He was a founding member of the time is without equal. Tim’s contribution Bev Woods Marine Education Society of Australia. has exceeded what could usually be Bev has maintained an ongoing His work as a nature educator has seen as being within the work norm and commitment to the protection and brought a foundation step in change to spans a wide range of achievements. For enhancement of the Victorian coast for thousands, if not hundreds of thousands more than 10 years he played a critical more than 10 years. She is often referred of people in Australia and around role in the establishment of the Marine to as a bit of a legend around Barwon the world. Harry has been a highly National Parks and Marine Sanctuaries. Heads. She has dedicated the majority of visible community member assisting Many of the education programs that her spare time to the cause, even taking environmental community groups and he developed at the Marine Discovery time off work to participate in coastal giving prodigious amounts of personal Centre in the late 1980s and early management activities. time for sustainability outcomes along 1990s are still run today. He was also A quiet, unassuming leader in the the Victorian Coast, most recently in a pivotal founding member of both community, Bev has instigated numerous Point Nepean. As a marine education of Melbourne’s marine-focused radio coastal projects and the establishment professional, Harry has, often without programs. Currently, he is the Australian of community groups to further protect pay, donated long hours to continuing Government NRM Facilitator (Coasts and the Barwon Bluff. She is currently the development of an international network Marine) – Victoria. president of Friends of the Lobster Pot of marine educators. and former president of Friends of the Bluff. She takes a lead role to encourage and motivate other individuals to care for and become active in protecting the marine and coastal environment.

10 Innovation Western Abalone Divers The People and Parks Reef Watch Victoria Active Oceans Association (Winner) Foundation – Sea Search – The Great Victorian Accessing the coastal The Western Abalone Divers Sea Search is a community- Fish Count environment poses significant Association (WADA) has based biodiversity monitoring Reef Watch Victoria initiated obstacles to many individuals moved to managing its zones program for Victoria’s system of the Great Victorian Fish Count because of its roughness and by treating each of its 36 reefs 13 Marine National Parks and in 2005 to get divers and variety of its natural terrain. as a separate entity in order 11 Marine Sanctuaries. Active community groups involved Active Oceans is a program to conserve abalone stocks participation in monitoring, in monitoring populations that assists people with and prevent over fishing. Each data collection and species of 25 Victorian temperate disabilities to learn about, reef has an individual quota identification increases the reef fish; species that have enjoy, participate in activities, amount and a minimum size community’s capacity to been minimally researched. and have access to the state’s limit appropriate to the size of understand their local marine The data collected is used to natural coastal assets first the abalone at maturity. ‘backyard’. Sea Search educates produce spatial distribution hand. Prior to 1998 there were Previously, the only system local community groups about maps which will be updated limited opportunities for people of management of the zone the natural and human-induced with the 2006 results and with disabilities to access the was a ‘one-size-fits-all’ variations on marine habitats reported to marine and coastal south west coastline between legal minimum length for and how their input is valuable management agencies to assist Port Campbell and Nelson. abalone (120 mm) and a to the management of these in management decisions. The A group of disability service zone-wide quota. Under this areas. By providing meaningful Great Victorian Fish Count providers banded together to management regime, serial opportunities for volunteers, has been widely embraced by use this asset as a basis for depletion of reefs started to Sea Search promotes Victorians who love to put their sport and recreation programs. take effect and some reefs stewardship of marine heads under water to take a Since 2001 Active Oceans has collapsed completely. environments and builds social look at the amazing variety of received recurrent funding from capital; helping people to temperate reef fish species that the Department of Human The new ecologically-based achieve their full potential. inhabit our offshore reefs. It Services. system has stopped the A greater sense of community aims to enhance communities’ downward spiral of the understanding and knowledge capacity to contribute to and abalone resource in the leads to improved responsibility become involved in marine Western region and safeguards for their local marine protected monitoring activities and the biodiversity by protection area. There are 13 Sea Search improve stewardship of the reef endenism and therefore groups who seasonally monitor marine environment. maximizing the capacity to their local marine protected survive. area and associated reference sites.

Community Group Friends of Mud Islands (Winner) Friends of Venus Bay Peninsula Earthcare St Kilda Friends of Mud Islands is a non-profit The Friends of Venus Bay Peninsula Earthcare St Kilda is a practical, local volunteer group established in 1992 formed only two years ago, initially as an environment group that works closely to assist in the care, maintenance and Indigenous Plants Group. After forming, with specialists and council to improve preservation of the Mud Islands in the Port members soon recognised a number of the environment in the Port Phillip Phillip Heads Marine National Park near issues that required attention. Within two municipality. Its main aims are to increase the entrance to Port Phillip Bay. years this group has tackled environmental the diversity and extent of indigenous The Mud Islands play an integral role as a weeds, surveyed bandicoots, promoted vegetation, study the penguin and Rakali breeding and roosting area for a diverse indigenous plants, helped beach-nestling populations, monitor air and water range of bird species and are visited birds and saved a wetland. quality, and underwater studies of St Kilda annually by large numbers of international The group has made a major effort to harbour. wader species because they provide engage the broad community by running As a result of Earthcare St Kilda’s important roosting and feeding areas for public educational forums, contributing advocacy, the St Kilda Breakwater these species. articles to the local press, running stalls at Cooperative Management Advisory Friends of Mud Islands contributes to the the local market and circulating fliers. Committee was established in 1992, which sustainable use of this area by actively An outstanding feature of the group is has been highly successful in achieving the raising awareness through interpretation, the energy and enthusiasm with which twin goals of managing the breakwater for publications and visual displays. The they attack environmental issues and the its maritime function and for wildlife. monthly working bees are dedicated to support that members provide for each maintaining remnant native vegetation and other and to other community members. the removal of rubbish from the shoreline.

11 Victorian Coastal Awards for Excellence 2007 continued

Species Protection Birds Australia – promoting Phillip Island Nature Park – Save Bayside City Council – coexistence between our Shearwaters Program Promoting the Rakali in Bayside recreationists and beach-nesting The ‘Save Our Shearwaters’ program Bayside City Council has conducted four birds (Winner) aims to raise awareness of and help save surveys of Rakali (an Australian water Australia’s beach-nesting shorebirds juvenile shearwaters during fledging, rat) since 1995 with the objective of experience poor breeding success and protect and improve their habitat to protecting Rakali and their habitat within largely as a result of human impacts. ensure their continued survival on Phillip Bayside. This project aims to increase awareness Island. The ‘little brown bird’ migrates Survey report recommendations have and involvement by communities and every September from Alaska to spend the sought to protect the Rakali and the to improve and inform decision-making summer on Phillip Island raising a single foreshore environment they inhabit. for the conservation management of chick. The main threats to Shearwaters on Actions include fencing areas of identified these shorebirds. The project uses the land are related to humans – for example, habitat to protect Rakali from predation Hooded Plover as a case study and has domestic cat and predation, destruction by dogs and disturbance from people successfully involved coastal communities of burrows by pedestrians and being run as well as revegetation proejcts. This and volunteers in monitoring and over by cars. In 1999 the Phillip Island increase of Rakali habitat provides more reporting sightings of breeding pairs and Nature Park successfully secured funding indigenous coastal flora species for active nests. The project will produce a for ‘Save Our Shearwaters’. Protection other birds and animals, thus improving management toolkit that will empower methods include nightly patrols by staff the overall biodiversity of the Bayside communities to take charge of shorebird and volunteers, an extensive awareness foreshore. conservation initiatives within their local and education program, and warning Volunteers have played a key role in every area. signs on roads. In 2006, the program survey and council has hosted numerous was reviewed and extended to increase Rakali seminars and information sessions cooperation with major stakeholders to generate interest. The Friends of Native and include more innovative methods Wildlife have also been instrumental in which have all led to a reduction in bird assisting Bayside City Council. mortality.

Cultural Achievement Coasts and Crown Land Heritage Victoria’s Maritime Corangamite Catchment Management, DSE – Aboriginal Heritage Unit – The SS City of Management Authority Burial Site Erosion Control Project, Launceston Trial Access Program A Memorandum of Understanding Gippsland Lakes (Winner) Natural and human interaction can (MOU) was developed that sets out the The Gippsland Lakes are a treasure trove have a detrimental affect upon historic principles for the relationship between the of Indigenous sacred sites. An Aboriginal shipwreck sites in Victoria. Scuba divers Corangamite Catchment Management burial site, located on the upper level of often cause unintentional impact due to Authority (CMA) and three Aboriginal dunes on the Boole Poole Peninsula on lack of awareness and understanding of community organisations that manage the Gippsland Lakes, has been protected the results of their actions. For the first Aboriginal cultural heritage within the from coastal erosion through the time in 25 years, 200 divers were given region in accordance with legislation. collaborative efforts and extensive work access to the City of Launceston, allowing For a number of years, the CMA has of key regional stakeholders. them to experience one of Victoria’s worked with the Aboriginal community In 1986, erosion of the foreshore began most significant historic shipwrecks. As a on improving natural resource exposing this Aboriginal burial site and result of the program, many scuba divers management (NRM) in the region. subsequent works have done little to now have a better understanding and The MOU will improve the protection protect the site for the long-term. appreciation of the controls on historic of the cultural heritage sites along the A partnership between Gippsland and shipwrecks. Many divers have contributed coast that can be damaged during East Gippsland Aboriginal Co-operative to the management and monitoring of the environmental activities and assist the (GEGAC) and the Department of site by providing images, video footage Aboriginal community to successfully Sustainability and Environment (Coastal and written reports on the condition of attract resources into their own NRM & Crown Lands Management unit) – and the site to Heritage Victoria. projects along the coast. ably supported by Gippsland Coastal Board, Aboriginal Affairs Victoria and the East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority – has secured the site and implemented a monitoring program to ensure long-term protection.

12 Education Marine Discovery Eco-Logic Education and Museum Victoria Fishcare East Gippsland Center Volunteer Environment Services – Marine Life Exhibition – Community Fishing Training Program Eco-Logic runs interactive The Marine Life exhibition Clinics (Winner) education programs in opened on 26 December 2005 Fishcare operates with a motto For the past 23 years, the the coastal catchment of and showcases the rich marine of “We Fish, We Care” and Marine Discovery Centre Corangamite and runs life of Victoria’s waters, from encourages anglers to take (MDC), through its Volunteer the Summer by the Sea shallow coastal habitats to the a stewardship approach to Training Program, has been Program for Port Phillip bottom of the deep sea. It is their local fishery. Fishcare assisting people of all ages West and Central South a permanent exhibition at the East Gippsland, as one of five to discover Victoria’s intricate Regions on behalf of Coast Museum of Victoria and has Fishcare groups in Victoria, marine biodiversity and to Action/Coastcare. Activities three main components: is committed to promoting learn skills to look after it. The include: rockpoool rambles, • “What’s special about sustainable recreational fishing volunteers then go on to share ocean snorkels, fossil safaris, our seas?” which depicts practices throughout the their knowledge and encourage coastal process/issues and five main habitat types of community. marine stewardship with more management. Eco-Logic has Victorian coastal waters; Central to this passion in than 5000 individuals each been operating for 11 years • “Into the Deep” which takes fostering sustainable fishing year. Volunteers participate in and engages with students the visitor on a journey of practices is Fishcare East a 7-day Marine and Coastal from Prep to university discovery down through the Gippsland’s’ program of Interpretation Course run over level. Approximately 16,000 layers of the ocean; and community fishing clinics. five months, allowing them participants enjoy the • “Mealtime” which deals These clinics have two main to visit the centre between educational experience offered with food chains and components; the primary their official training sessions by Eco-Logic every year. food webs in the ocean, schools program where to improve their skills and concentrating on predators, volunteers visit schools knowledge. Surveys and feeding adaptations, throughout Gippsland to discussions with visitors interrelationships and teach young anglers about demonstrates that it’s the defences. sustainable fishing and a volunteers that make the More than 600,000 visitors program of clinics for the Marine Discovery Centre a come to Museum Victoria every broader community such as wonderful and unique place year, making Marine Life a those offered during Summer to visit. The MDC’s volunteer highly visible vehicle for raising by the Sea. training is seen as providing awareness and appreciation a valued training experience of Victoria’s rich marine with many former volunteers environments. sought after for work in other organisations.

Appointed Manager Media East Gippsland Shire Council Crib Point, Stony Point Out of Blue radio program (Winner) Foreshore Committee of (Winner) Since 1994, the East Gippsland Shire Management The latest in marine research, changes in (EGS) Council has been the Committee The Crib Point, Stony Point Foreshore coastal planning policy, environmental of Management for 12 foreshore Committee manages 240 acres achievements by local coastal community reserves, covering a total of 585 stretching approximately 5 km from groups – where can you find all this? On hectares within East Gippsland. Jack’s Beach to Stony Point on Western the radio program, Out of the Blue, Port Bay. A flora and fauna survey airing every Sunday between 11:30 and Through their mix of skilled staff and midday on 3CR Community Radio. equitable distribution of revenue and of the coastal reserve managed was funds along their coastline, the EGS has undertaken over a 12-month period Out of the Blue is run completely on been able to take a strategic and pro- starting in October 2005. This survey a volunteer basis and yet the show is active approach to managing some of provides the committee with a detailed professionally produced and presented East Gippsland’s most intensely used study that will serve as a basis for in a format that is fun, engaging and coastal foreshore reserves. developing management strategies that accessible to the whole community. will enable future generations to enjoy Out of the Blue first hit the Melbourne Foreshore Management Plans guide this natural area and appreciate its airwaves back in 1995 – determined the planning and management of the significance. to give a voice to local marine and reserves, and the investment of on- conservation issues. Over ten years and ground projects aimed at balancing the more than 500 shows later, it continues conservation and recreation values of to make a mighty contribution to the foreshore reserves. local media coverage of marine and coastal issues throughout Victoria, Australia and the rest of the world.

13 Victorian Coastal Awards for Excellence 2007 continued

Water Quality Friends of Wonthaggi Heathlands and Coastal City of Kingston – The Esplanade Stormwater Reserve Inc Wetlands – Watch Them Grow Improvement Project (Winner) This innovative drainage project has been designed to This area of public land was grazed by stock for more than capture litter and treat stormwater within a 3-step system 100 years and for much of this time it was the Wonthaggi Rifle to improve water quality being discharged to the Edithvale Range. The project to create a wetland on this degraded land foreshore. and plant 7000 trees and 12,000 wetland plants commenced This project serves both to reduce erosion of Edithvale beach in spring 2005. Eight community groups have been actively and improve the quality of stormwater discharged into Port involved in the project. Phillip Bay. Prior to this project, stock had direct access to the waterway, The objectives of the project have been driven by the Kingston so terminating grazing has had a direct improvement on water Foreshore Reference Group, a community advisory group quality on site. All locations downstream will experience the administered by the City of Kingston council. This project benefits of this high quality water when the wetland is in was undertaken as a trial and it is anticipated that it will operation. Greening Australia is using the site as an ongoing be implemented at up to 40 other sites within the City of research program into various methods of direct seeding. Kingston where there is a direct discharge onto the foreshore.

Building & Design Perkins Architects – Apollo Bay Eco Hostel (Winner) The Apollo Bay Eco Beach YHA Hostel is a 72-bed youth hostel incorporating meeting rooms, car parking and landscaping. It is an environmentally sustainable design that takes into consideration: site selection, material selection; and energy efficient/ passive solar heating. The site was chosen because it is in walking distance of the town’s activity centre, the beach and the Great Ocean Road. Water-wise local native plants were chosen for the landscaping. Recycled or sustainably harvested timbers were used where appropriate. The building has good thermal mass and good cross-ventilation. Sweep fans provide cooling in summer so that air conditioning units weren’t needed. Zen Architects Pty Ltd – Point Addis Sustainable Artist’s Residence The Point Addis Sustainable Artist’s Residence is in a sensitive bush setting with minimal impact on nature while encouraging occupants to immerse themselves in the unique qualities of the place; creek, escarpment, grasslands, hinterland, kangaroos, sea, and sky. The house is set on the hills at the edge of an escarpment, overlooking Point Addis beach on the west coast of Victoria. It rests 500 m from the back beach in the centre of 185 acres of diverse coastal landscape and is located north south with extensive views of the coast, bush and farmland. Issues such as energy conservation, water conservation, minimising site damage during construction, use of local materials with low embodied energy, recycling, revegetation of indigenous species have been incorporated into the building. Lovell Chen – St Kilda Pier Café and Kiosk The reconstruction and extension of the St Kilda Pier Café and Kiosk employs a number of strategies that improve the sustainability of the coastline while targeting the causes of various environmental problems. The reconstructed pavilion replicates the unique 1904 design and therefore recovers the aesthetic significance of the former building which was destroyed by an arsonist lit fire in 2003. It was rebuilt using traditional construction techniques. Great Ocean Road Coast Committee – Bird Rock Lookout Project Assessed in 2002, the former Bird Rock Lookout and beach access steps were deemed unsustainable due to geotechnical instability and erosion. The site was heavily used as a surf check and surf access point – activities which took place within a dynamic, fragile and risky coastal cliff zone. The design challenge was to enhance the sustainability of the site without detracting from its useability and aesthetic appeal. Launched in early 2006, the new lookout has proved to be a popular site for locals and visitors alike, as well as enhancing surf- check opportunities. It is safer, larger, and more accessible. The design process brought together several local community groups to establish shared goals and provide input. GHD Architecture Melbourne – Westernport Water Authority Administration Building GHD Architecture Melbourne designed a corporately responsible administration building for Westernport Water Authority on Phillip Island that has delivered optimum community environmental and economic results. GHD consulted with Landcare Australia to create a site-wide analysis of all existing flora resulting in a mapped species analysis which underpinned building and structure locations. The building features lighting and motion sensors, zoned air-conditioning, and temperature and rains sensors.

14 Community, Council and a Maremma Conserving Little Penguins By Ian Fitzgibbon. Environmental Officer, Warrnambool City Council

In what is believed to be a world first, a Maremma Guardian dog has been successfully used to protect Little Penguin and Shearwater colonies from fox and dog predation on Middle Island in Warrnambool. Middle Island is part of the Thunder Point Coastal Reserve and is managed by the Warrnambool City Council (WCC) with much support from local community. The Island has a history of foxes and dogs preying upon the Little Penguin and Short- tailed Shearwaters colonies that inhabit the Island. The Little Penguin population has been decimated from estimates of more than 600 in the year 2000 to fewer than 10 in 2005. For several years, the WCC has implemented a fox control strategy colonies which included shooting, fumigation and trapping. returning after While showing some minor successes, it failed to foraging; sustain the Little Penguin population. Along came • strong public the idea of ‘Oddball’, a Maremma Guardian dog support for the who could live on Middle Island and protect the project; and bbon

• penguin gi tz seabird colonies from predation in their critical time i of breeding. arrival counts : Ian F Ian : conducted s The Maremma idea was suggested by a concerned

before, during Photo community member, Alan ‘Swampy’ Marsh, a local and after the free-range chicken farmer who has successfully trial showed good results with current used the Maremma breed to protect his chickens estimates believed to be under 100. from fox predation. The Maremma breed has been used for centuries in Italy to protect sheep from Where to from here? wolves, bears and thieves; they are specifically WCC is extending the trial for a further 12 months. bred for a flock protection role. Swampy had the By preventing predation of the Little Penguin during vision that this proven agricultural method could the breeding cycle, it is hoped the population will easily be adapted to protect the Little Penguin and naturally regenerate over time. Shearwater colonies from fox and dog predation. Many thanks must go to Swampy Marsh and After detailed governmental and community David Williams who spent several nights camping consultation, WCC conducted a four-week trial in on Middle Island acclimitising the Maremma, the late 2006 to determine the ability of the Maremma Warrnambool Coastcare and Landcare Group who breed to prevent fox and dog predation on conducted the penguin arrival counts, and DSE for Middle Island. The trial proved to be very effective, their invaluable contributions to the planning of showing positive results that included: the trial. • a reduction in fox activity in the area during the The Maremma trial is a good example of trial (this was measured through fox scats and government organisations and community foot print observations); working together to protect our native fauna. • no known bird fatalities caused by predation It shows there are some great ideas out there in during the trial; the community and with a little guidance and • no known lasting impacts caused by the support from government organisations we can Maremma on the Little Penguin and Shearwater together improve biodiversity on our coasts.

15 Showcasing Catchment to Coast Flora and Fauna on the Bellarine Peninsula By Sue Longmore, Swan Bay Integrated Catchment Management Project

The beauty of the Bellarine Peninsula’s natural The booklets have been commended by local communities and the desire to protect them has naturalist Jo Heatlie. “Wonderful booklets, recently inspired the creation of two local flora amazing how you managed to cram so much booklets and six stunning art quilts. information and photos to help with ID into such a small package. The ecological vegetation class map The pocket-sized, 64-page, colour booklets titled is great for people like me who are interested, and Coastal Plants of the Bellarine Peninsula and also for newcomers who will get to thinking about Inland Plants of the Bellarine Peninsula have been vegetation as part of a community, each unique in produced by Swan Bay Integrated Catchment their species and the birds and other creatures they Management Project staff and volunteers. Each support,” she said. booklet features a ‘vegetation communities’ map and detailed photographs and points of interest The booklets were funded through Coast Action/ for 50 key plant species that occur in coastal Coastcare Community Support, Corangamite woodlands, wetlands and inland areas on the CMA Regional Landcare and Swan Bay Integrated Bellarine. The booklets are organised to make Catchment Management Project (SBICMP). We it easy for everyone to discover, identify and acknowledge Friends of the Bluff for permission appreciate our local flora.A local fauna brochure to incorporate elements of their publication Plants is in the planning stages. that Clothe the Bluff into the booklets. With approximately 5% of pre-European local Students and local quilters have also been busy in native vegetation remaining in the Geelong raising awareness about the special communities Region, it is vital to protect and link up the of plants and animals living alongside us on little that remains. Community groups and the Bellarine Peninsula. A collaborative project land managers have hailed these booklets as a between Swan Bay Integrated Catchment valuable resource that will assist them in their local Management Project, Year 8 Bellarine Secondary vegetation restoration projects. Those seeking to College students and Rip Stitchers quilters from establish low maintenance indigenous gardens Point Lonsdale has resulted in six very beautiful and can also use the booklets to select appropriate educational art quilts. indigenous The quilts depict Coastal Moonah woodlands plants that which grow at the back of sand dunes and will easily along salty waterways; heathy woodlands grow in such as the woodlands at the Drysdale Basin; their area. freshwater and saline coastal wetlands lying in a chain between Ocean Grove and Point Lonsdale; saltmarsh along the fringes of Swan Bay and Lake Connewarre, seagrass communities at Swan Bay; and rocky reef communities outcropping along the shores at Point Lonsdale and in the Barwon Bluff Marine Sanctuary. The quilts were funded through SBICMP, Victorian Textiles and Freudenberg Pty Ltd. They are rotated regularly through public spaces in coastal towns on the Bellarine Peninsula. For more information please contact Swan Bay Integrated Catchment Management Project staff: Matt Crawley, phone (03) 5256 3687 or Sue Longmore phone (03) 5258 1836.

16 A Snapshot of Coastal Management Act Consent By Madeline Glynn, Coast Action/Coastcare Facilitator, South West Region

If you propose to use or develop coastal An application for CMA consent must be in Crown land, you must gain written consent of writing: and the Minister (or delegate) under the Coastal • can be made direct to DSE; or Management Act 1995 from the Department of • if a planning permit is required under the Sustainability and Environment. Planning and Environment Act 1987, it may be referred to the Department as a referral The Coastal Management Act 1995 (CMA) consent authority. process is separate to the planning permit process under the Planning and Environment Act 1987. For the Department to justify and assess any The consent process applies to all coastal Crown potential impacts and benefits of the proposal,D SE land, regardless of the Planning Scheme. must have regard to, but not limited to: • the Victorian Coastal Strategy; Coastal Crown land, defined under theCoastal • any approved Coastal Action Plan, and/or Management Act 1995 includes: Management Plan applying to the land; • any land reserved under the Crown Land • any recommendation of the Victorian (Reserves) Act 1978 for the protection of the Environment Assessment Council; coastline; and • the purpose for which the land is reserved under • any Crown land within 200 metres of the high the Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978. water mark of the coastal waters of Victoria; or any sea within the limits of Victoria; and Should your group propose to undertake works • the sea-bed of the coastal waters of Victoria; on coastal Crown land, prior to the commencing and any works or project application, contact your local • the sea-bed of any sea within the limits of DSE office, or visit: www.dse.vic.gov.au , click on Victoria. coasts & marine, then click coasts to access Coastal Fact Sheets. on on s e Ma e uli , J , s e us o H h h c ea B Photo: Mt Martha Martha Mt Photo:

17 2007 Summer by the Sea Highlights

Over summer, around 21,000 people enjoyed more than 300 activities at 70 locations along Victoria’s coastline as part 2007 Summer Activities Program. Feedback from participants was, as usual, positive with comments like: “Couldn’t believe there was so much variety in marine life out there.” “Very well run and so informative.” “I learnt that you shouldn’t take anything out of a marine national park or sanctuary.” “The kids learn so much from these days.” “I don’t think I’ve ever enjoyed the beach so much.” “Once again a great program – learnt lots and saw stuff I’ve never seen before.” “Good for making the kids enthusiastic about the coastal environment.”

Here are just three of this year’s highlight activities.

Dog’s Breakfast By Bruce Atkin Dogs and their owners were invited to join Coast Action staff and volunteers for breakfast at Inverloch and Sandy Point as part of Summer Activities in January. About 20 dogs and their owners attended each function, sharing dry dog food and water (for the canines) and sausages (for the hominids) and learning about beach-nesting birds and responsible dog ownership. Birds Australia‘s Beach-nesting Birds Project Officer,D r Grainne Maguire, proposed the activity and attended both Gippsland events plus one in the South West. She was pleased with the response from dog owners, who seemed to take onboard her key messages. “We wanted to tell people about birds that nest on our beaches in summer, and how unleashed dogs can disturb their breeding.” She used the example of the endangered Hooded Plover that nests on ocean beaches at the time of maximum human use. “We frequently observe that dogs running free are far more likely to discover and harm the flightless chicks, to cause adult birds to abandon their eggs and for the chicks to go into hiding for long periods, increasing their chances of starvation” she said. Shire officers also attended and chatted to dog owners about leash-free areas and they gave away ‘Pooch Pouches’ – a small plastic bag to attach to the dog’s leash for storing plastic bags for picking up dog poo. For further information about beach-nesting birds contact Dr Grainne Maguire at Birds Australia, phone (03) 9882 2622.

18 The Vision of Snorkelling ski our Marine Sanctuaries erzbow Wi by Phillip Wierzbowski A major new initiative during this year’s illip Summer Activity Program in the Port Phillip region was the inclusion of an Ph Photo: Some Summer opportunity for blind and vision-impaired people to snorkel in a Bandicooting Marine Sanctuary within the waters of Port Phillip Bay. By John Amor, Within 20 km of Melbourne’s central business district is Jawbone, This year, as part of the Far Ricketts Point and Point Cook Marine Sanctuaries, but for many South West Summer by the people these are unexplored territories. Sea Launch, award-winning environmental entertainers/ Coast Action/Coastcare, in partnership with Vision Australia, educators Vox Bandicoot developed an event that provided a great opportunity for performed at the Port people with sensory disabilities to enjoy a positive and enhanced Campbell Seaside Markets experience of Victoria’s marine world. in early January. Aquability, a dive centre for people with disabilities, ran the all-day Their interactive snorkelling event for 10 blind and vision-impaired clients aged performances of song, between 12 and 60. Following orientation and mobility training dance and games crossed in the Don Tatnell Pool in Mordialloc, the group ventured into over themes of water underwater exploration of the rocky platform at Ricketts Point at conservation, global Beaumaris. warming, marine pollution, It was wonderful to watch the participants enjoying themselves plastic bags to name a few. and learning how to snorkel said Port Phillip Coast Action/ Far from being doomsayers, Coastcare Facilitator Phillip Wierzbowski. they empowered their “This was the first time for many of them and they very quickly mixed-aged gathering and took to the ocean after some basic instruction in the pool.” enthralled the younger set. They left their audience Because of the participants’ heightened sense of touch, smell and amongst cheers of approval hearing, instructors paid particular attention to introducing marine and their shows are still plant and animal life such as seaweed, sponges, jelly fish, shellfish, very much the subject of sea anemone, sea biscuits, sea stars, and urchins during the one- conversation on the streets on-one snorkelling tuition. of the coastal hamlet. “Speaking with participants after the experience, you could gauge the level of excitement in their voices, their sense of accomplishment and their desire to do it again,” said Phillip. Many also said that this underwater experience provided a sense of freedom and agility seldom experienced on land. Afterwards, Vision Australia was very positive about the activity, commenting that it was a rewarding experience for their clients and they hope to be able to offer a simular event in the 2008 Coast Action/Coastcare Summer Activity Program. Due to this successful partnership and positive response, Coast Action/Coastcare will develop additional educational activities with Vision Australia, starting with coastal bird tour and identification later this year.

19 Regional Updates

From Port Phillip East Coast Action/Coastcare provided environmental By Denis Cox and Phillip Wierzbowski education to more than 1450 students at the Mornington Schools Environment Week and Casey International Student Volunteer (ISV) Coordinator, Primary School Environmental EXPO 2007 which Jackie Boele who is based in Sydney, was recently was held over four days in March. taken on a tour of the Westernport area to see 2006 ISV projects and talk with some of Recently a ‘Fostering Marine and Coastal Care’ the volunteer groups involved. In 2007, the presentation was given to Marine Care Ricketts Westernport area will have three ISV groups all Point, Frankston Foreshore Advisory Committee and Frankston Environment Friends Network. staying at Phillip Island Nature Park’s comfortable new accommodation block near the Penguin Parade. This year the ISV groups will have their From Port Phillip West own transport. Their work will be done on Phillip By Dianne Moore Island and various other sites along the Bass Coast. Festival of the Sea An enthusiastic new group has formed in the Barwon Heads celebrated its 7th Festival of the Sea Mornington area, which is keen to help improve during national Sea Week in March. This year’s conditions along the Tanti Creek and nearby coast. program had a strong focus on the Barwon Estuary with participants in the Wednesday Seminar taking The Westernport/Mornington Peninsula Biosphere part in estuary monitoring activities. Friday saw the Group has formed a sub-committee to tackle local primary school out on the coast, with grades pollution issues relating to Watson’s Creek that 5 & 6 students undertaking their own studies and runs from the Somerville area into the Yaringa monitoring of the Barwon Estuary. Marine National Park. On Wednesday evening, a crowd of more than After 11 years of serving the Dromana Foreshore 80 people attended the Committee, the reserve ranger Tony Owen has ‘Land Sea Sky’ presentation made a change to the tropics. His work over these that focussed on moonah years is greatly appreciated and his expertise and woodlands, the intricacies dedication to improving the Dromana foreshore of local fish species and migratory birds. A will be missed. change to the weekend A display at the ‘Small Farming Victoria’ field days celebrations brought two at Lang Lang was an opportunity to provide coastal festivals together into one information to the farming community on issues relating Westernport. Creating marine murals at the Barwon Heads Coast Action/Coastcare took part in ‘The Coastal Festival of the Sea. Communities Coming Together Community Building Initiative’ workshop held at Devon Meadows for coastal village communities in the Westernport area. More than 50 people from the towns such as Blind Bight, Cannons Creek, Devon Meadows, Pearcedale, Tooradin and Warneet participated. They shared their vision for the future, identified priorities and established project teams to see the vision become a reality. This partnership between the City of Casey and DSE is a part of a two-year project funded by the Department for Victorian Communities. Marine murals drip drying.

20 with the Barwon Heads community converging on the foreshore with the sustainable living expo and displays and stalls from local environmental community organisations. Two music stages were on the beach this year with Radio Marinara (3RRR) hosting their Sunday morning program live from Lots of song and dance in the South West as they Barwon Heads foreshore. A special two-hour show celebrate diversity. was granted for this special occasion which gave many locals with the opportunity to talk about the The 2007 Summer Activities program commenced environment and programs they are involved with. with the traditional launch at the Anglesea Friends of the Bluff also enticed an audience for Riverbank Market on New Year’s Day; with 61 the 9am start with a free cooked breakfast. events planned for the month of January. The Festival continues to provide many local Events in the Central South West were held from people with the opportunity to celebrate and learn Pt Addis to Marengo. Once again the support about the marine and coastal environment they from key stakeholders was outstanding, with a have on their doorstep. number of additional events being organised by Parks Victoria. From the South West This year saw an increase in participation numbers from the two previous years, including a significant By John Amor and Madeline Glynn increase in attendees at community days with Summer was the usual facilitator ‘blur’ starting more young people and families lending a hand. with Coastcare Week activities, a highly successful Summer by the Sea program of activities and New to this year’s program was the Fishy Ed Shed winding down with Sea Week activities. The at Aireys Inlet, which proved a hit with locals bushfires throughout this period caused some and visitors to the area. Estuary Doctors, an arts disruption as facilitators and rangers involved with activity to create awareness on our local estuaries, the activities were called away. In spite of this, the was held at Painkalac estuary and Erskine estuary numbers attending activities were maintained with by the Corangamite Catchment Management more people visiting the South West to avoid the Authority. The beach theatre production of ‘The Gippsland coast. Private Life of Eels’ at Aireys Inlet proved a very popular hands-on activity for the whole family. Now in autumn we are nearing the end of the festival season. These community festivals are both supported and attended by the program in From South Gippsland the South West, where it is seen as an ideal way By Bruce Atkin (based on a contribution to spread the word about protecting the coast and from Clive Minton) marine environment. Some of the festivals that Possible effects of hot weather on we have involvement with include the Indigenous wader food supplies Tarerer Festival, the Port Fairy Folk Festival, the The Victorian Wader Study Group has made some Multicultural Festival and Lake Bolac Eel Festival. unusual sightings and counts this summer, perhaps With the support of a growing number of indicating that the extreme heat and dry have volunteers, we hope to continue and expand our involvement of these community gatherings. adversely affected wader food supplies at some locations. Local volunteer groups are awaiting good rainfall to replace drought-affected 2006 plantings and Waders mainly feed on invertebrates (especially to commence their ongoing revegetation works. worms and shellfish) in the surface layers of mud Every year, the Portland Cliffs Group, Killarney and sand in estuaries. Populations at 26 Australian Coastcare and the Warrnambool Coastcare sites have been monitored twice annually for 27 Landcare Group plant several thousand plants years. Thus, normal numbers and fluctuations are along our coastline. well known.

21 Regional Updates continued

Hot dry weather affecting also because Coast Action/Coastcare staff and wader food supply? Parks Victoria colleagues, and indeed a number of volunteers, were involved in fighting the fires.A s In January in Corner Inlet a result we ran an Easter Activity Program. Look 7000 Red-necked Stints and for photos of the activities on the Habitat Network 500 Curlew Sandpipers were East Gippsland website (www.hneg.org.au). Photo: Clive Minton located at Barry’s Beach. The next big event on the calendar is the East Numbers are normally 2000–3000 Red-necked Gippsland Field Days. For the first time we are Stints and less than 200 Curlew Sandpipers. By going to have a marquee which is designed to February 25th, Stints numbered more than 8000 showcase the coastal community groups across with at least 1000 Curlew Sandpipers. Next day at the region and the work they are doing. It is nearby Shallow Inlet, there were virtually no Red- hoped this will result in greater public recognition necked Stints or Curlew Sandpipers where 4000 of community’s work and hopefully a few new and 1500 respectively had been present a month members as well. earlier. It is likely therefore that most of these birds had transferred to Barry’s Beach. Movements of Finally, I would like to take this opportunity significance between these locations are unusual. to congratulate the East Gippsland finalists in this year’s Coastal Awards for Excellence. John An indication that the redistribution may have Ariens (lifetime achievement), Fishcare East been caused by the extreme weather comes from Gippsland (Education) and East Gippsland Shire observations in mid-February at the Werribee (Appointed Manager) can all be very proud of their Sewage Farm where changed behaviour of achievements. waders was observed. Many thousands of waders were huddled together, inactive, on one lagoon despite there being lagoons that appeared in ideal condition for feeding waders. Extremely hot weather may have either killed the invertebrates in the surface layer of the mud at Shallow Inlet and Werribee or caused them to move to a depth where they are unavailable to feeding birds. This may be a precursor of possible climate change effects which might become more widespread in the future.

From East Gippsland By Glen Forster Well summer has come and gone and what a dramatic summer it was in East Gippsland. More than one million hectares burnt and some 19,000 Students looking at the life found in the people involved in one of the biggest wildfires in seagrass around Lakes Entrance as part of recorded history in Victoria. The impact of the fires Easter Activities at the Lakes Entrance on the coast is going to be felt for many years, Campus of East Gippsland TAFE. with water quality in the rivers that flow into the Students from front to back are: Gippsland Lakes already too poor for domestic use. Chelsea Dixon (Tambo Upper), Dyland Maker Due to the fires, a number of summer activities (Lakes Entrance), Mitchell Cook and were cancelled both for public safety reasons but Brady Cook (Melbourne).

22 Flotsam & Jetsam

2007 Victorian Youth Environment Conference 27–28 August, Portland and Port Fairy e

by Cathy Oke, Coordinator 2007 Victorian Youth c Environment Conference

The 2007 Victorian Youth Environment Conference, 27–28 August Van ndrew in South West Victoria, is an excellent opportunity for students and A hoto: hoto: teachers looking for an authentic learning outcome to present their p marine and coastal projects at an incredibly exciting and rewarding Students from Western Heights conference for students by students. College presenting their workshop titled Bubble, Bubble Turtles in This conference, based on the award winning International River Trouble. Health and Youth Coastal Conferences, will be held in Portland and Port Fairy, after invitations and commitment to help run the event from science teacher Britt Gow (Hawkesdale P-12), acting principal Felicity Harpley (Portland primary school) and Richard Hodgkins (Glenelg Hopkins Shire Council). The 2007 Victorian Youth Environment Conference is a culmination of a process. This process involves students working with expert mentors many months prior to the event to develop presentations e for their peers on important i ard environmental/marine and coastal H topics relevant to their local area.

Most importantly, the process is Vern hoto: p about promoting kids teaching Rob Gell with students from St Albans kids as the highest form of learning Secondary College hearing Ingham e and aiming for a cultural change in State High School’s presentation Ok the way we view, use and perceive about Hinchinbrook Island’s our natural environment. This is an Indigenous Heritage. exciting opportunity for South West hoto: Cathy Cathy hoto: p Victoria to host such this event. Students doing a wetland survey at Melbourne Places are filling rapidly, so get in fast if you want to register and Water’s Western especially if you want to present a workshop! Treatment Plant, as part of Visit www.onelifeoneworldourfuture.com environmental project day or email [email protected] of the conference.

What’s On A Vegetation Forum will be held on the Mornington Peninsula later in the year bringing together coastal volunteers and agencies to assess revegetation programs on Coastal Reserves. The forum will cover the successes or failures of completed projects, the progress of ongoing programs, effective methods that could be used in other places. The aim is to provide up-to-date technical information with opportunity for information exchange, comparison and assistance for those who are involved in vegetation management projects. For more information, email [email protected]

23 Coast Action/Coastcare Contacts Coast Action/Coastcare Facilitators

Gippsland Region Western Region Bairnsdale Anglesea Glen Forster Tracey Pennington Tel: 03 5152 0439 Tel: 03 5263 3715 Mob: 0408 357 343 Mob: 0409 332 197 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Yarram Warrnambool Bruce Atkin John Amor Tel: 03 5183 9116 Tel: 03 5561 9955 Mob: 0429 842 142 Mob: 0429 976 189 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

Port Phillip Region Box Hill Melbourne City Office Denis Cox Catherine Clancy Tel: 03 9296 4532 State Program Co-ordinator Mob: 0409 958 050 Tel: 03 9637 9742 Email: [email protected] Mob: 0411 258 318 Phillip Wierzbowski Email: [email protected] Tel: 03 9296 4525 Mob: 0411 409 815 Visit our web site at: Email: [email protected] www.dse.vic.gov.au/coasts Geelong Dianne Moore Tel: 03 5226 4669 Email: [email protected]

Coastline Editors: Catherine Clancy & Carolyn Munckton This publication may be of assistance to you but the State of Victoria and its employees do not guarantee that the publication is without flaw of any kind or is wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or other consequence which may arise from you relying on any information in this publication. To receive Coastline via Email go to www.dse.vic.gov.au/coasts and go to the Quick Link ‘Coastline Newsletters’ or phone the Hotline on 03 9637 9742.

© State of Victoria 2007 24 Printed on 100% recycled paper