PARKS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009/10 Earlier this year, a team of five Yorta Yorta rangers Parks Victoria acknowledges Traditional Owners and were recruited to work on Yorta Yorta Country. recognises their culture and connection to the land This joint initiative between Yorta Yorta Nation and sea, including areas now managed as parks. Parks Aboriginal Corporation, the Federal Government and Victoria acknowledges them as Traditional Owners of Parks Victoria will build the capacity of Yorta Yorta these areas. People to actively participate in co-management of Barmah National Park. Parks Victoria also acknowledges the links and contribution from other Indigenous communities and Pictured on the front cover are the five rangers, individuals and those maintaining a custodial role. along with other Yorta Yorta staff members: (left to Parks Victoria is committed to strong relationships right) Reg Murray, Leon Atkinson, Hilda Stewart, Joel with Victoria’s Traditional Owners and their full Ritchie, Bryan Andy, Greta Morgan, Mark Atkinson participation in cooperative and joint management and Des Morgan of agreed areas of public land in Victoria.

Photography: Copyright © Parks Victoria 2010 Published on www.parkweb.vic.gov.au Christian Pearson Level 10, 535 Bourke Street, (cover), Thomas Melbourne, Australia. This publication is copyright. No part may Chambers, James be reproduced by any process except in Lauritz and ISSN 1448 - 9082 accordance with the provisions of the Rachel Pilgrim ISSN 1448 - 9090 (Online) Copyright Act 1968. CONTENTS

REPORT OF OPERATIONS Chairman’s message 4 Chief Executive’s message 5

ABOUT PARKS VICTORIA Parks Victoria’s Board 9 Board committees 10 Organisational structure 11 The year in review 12

HEALTHY PARKS Caring for the natural environment 13

HEALTHY PEOPLE Visitor experience 21 Cultural heritage 30 SUPPORTING HEALTHY PARKS HEALTHY PEOPLE Fire and emergency management 35 Commercial operations 39 Responsibly managing our resources 41 Governance and compliance 44 Corporate performance 47 Environmental performance 48 Financial performance 49

FINANCIAL REPORT 51

APPENDIX Disclosure index 100

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 3 CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

On behalf of the Parks Victoria Board, I am pleased to The Board welcomed the improvement in Parks submit Parks Victoria’s 2009-10 Annual Report. Victoria’s internal systems, procedures and practices This financial year was one of delivery of key milestones during the year. The new Finance and People System for Parks Victoria and the start of some major new supports improved planning, analysis and reporting of initiatives for the organisation. Parks Victoria’s resources so we can deliver efficiently and effectively. Parks Victoria took on the management of four new national parks and a number of other parks protecting On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Mark northern Victoria’s iconic River Red Gum landscape. Stone and his executive team for their leadership These new parks represent future directions for Parks during the year in which Parks Victoria was again seen Victoria with agreement to establish co-management as one of the world's leading park agencies. with the Yorta Yorta Traditional Owners in Barmah I would also like to thank my fellow Board members for National Park and Wadi Wadi Traditional Owners in the care, diligence and leadership through the course Nyah-Vinifera Park. of a very busy year.

A highlight of the year for the Board was the inaugural International Healthy Parks Healthy People Congress. The Congress, two years in the making, brought together leading experts and thinkers from around the world, and was opened by the Premier, the Hon. John Brumby MP. Speakers shared diverse Rob Gerrand perspectives and experiences on the Healthy Parks Chairman Healthy People message. I congratulate those July 2010 involved for their vision and leadership in promoting the Healthy Parks Healthy People message to an Australian and international audience.

Fire management is a growing area of planning and delivery for the organisation. Parks Victoria delivered the first year of the four-year, $21 million Melbourne Bushfire Protection Program, increasing and improving bushfire protection activities around Melbourne. Parks Victoria will play a significant role in continuing to implement the government’s response to the Royal Commission into the February 2009 fires and in increasing the intensity of our fire preparation, response and recovery efforts.

4 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S MESSAGE

Parks Victoria has been developing and promoting partnership we welcomed five new Yorta Yorta rangers the Healthy Parks Healthy People approach for nearly to our organisation during the year. They appear on the a decade. This year we significantly broadened that cover of this report. discussion through our inaugural International Healthy Parks Healthy People Congress. This report covers a wide range of issues and achievements. I will highlight two more. For a number I am proud of our organisation’s effort in initiating, of years, Parks Victoria has worked with other planning and holding this important event. Experts departments and agencies to promote Victoria’s from around the world gathered and presented new bays and maritime areas. A significant milestone was research and ideas about the connection between reached this year with the completion and opening of health and nature. It is the first time such a congress the Queenscliff Harbour in March after a $38 million has been held for a diverse range of disciplines – from redevelopment. The harbour is now a major tourist the health industry to park and recreation agencies to destination. urban planners. Across the state we were fortunate to have a fairly mild At the opening of the Congress, the Premier announced bushfire season this year. This assisted us in stepping up park entry fees were to be removed from 1 July. This our bushfire preparation and planning. Parks Victoria was a great outcome for Parks Victoria. In Victoria there led the Melbourne Bushfire Protection Program. The are families and pensioners for whom entry fees were a program delivered new staff, new equipment and barrier to regular use of some our parks. In keeping with increased protection works around Melbourne. In our Healthy Parks Healthy People message, removal of addition, we delivered an extensive planned burn fees will allow more people to get out and enjoy parks. program with the Department of Sustainability and Environment and continued to implement a major fire We also established new parks this year. There has been recovery program. significant investigation and planning for new River Red Gum parks in northern Victoria over a number of years. This culminated in four new national parks being proclaimed: Barmah, Gunbower, Lower Goulburn and Warby-Ovens national parks. The existing Murray- Sunset, Hattah-Kulkyne and Terrick Terrick national parks were expanded and other new parks established. All up, more than 100,000 hectares have been added to the parks estate to protect this iconic landscape. Mark Stone Chief Executive To manage these new parks, we are working closely July 2010 with Traditional Owners. As an important first step, Traditional Owner Land Management Boards will be established for Barmah National Park with the Yorta Yorta People and for Nyah-Vinifera Park with the Wadi Wadi People. As a practical expression of this

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 5

ABOUT PARKS VICTORIA

WHO ARE WE

Parks Victoria is a statutory authority, established at the core of everything we do. It expresses under the Parks Victoria Act 1998. The responsible the strong link between community health and Minister for the reporting period was Gavin access to nature. Jennings MLC, Minister for Environment and Climate Change. Parks Victoria manages parks in the context of their surrounding landscape and in partnership Under the Parks Victoria Act 1998, Parks Victoria’s with Traditional Owners. We work in partnership responsibilities are to provide services to the with other government and non-government State and its agencies for the management of organisations and community groups parks, reserves and other land under the control including the Department of Sustainability and of the State. Environment (DSE), catchment management authorities, private land owners, friends groups, Parks Victoria has a strong reputation volunteers, licensed tour operators, lessees, nationally and internationally as a leading research institutes and the broader community. park management agency. We are committed to conserving and enhancing the natural environment. Healthy Parks Healthy People is

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 7 ABOUT PARKS VICTORIA

Parks Victoria’s management responsibilities include: ❚ 45 national parks ❚ 25 state parks ❚ 13 marine national parks ❚ 11 marine sanctuaries ❚ 3 wilderness parks ❚ 30 metropolitan parks ❚ 60 other parks (including regional and reservoir parks) ❚ More than 2,700 natural features and conservation reserves ❚ 10,412 formally registered Aboriginal cultural heritage sites ❚ More than 2,500 non-Indigenous historic places.

Parks Victoria supports recreational and tourism opportunities on public land and waterways. All commercial tour operators operating on public land Vision and Purpose and waterways are licensed by Parks Victoria. Parks Victoria is committed to preserving the natural and cultural values of the areas we manage. Our The parks and waterways attract 88.5 million visits each vision is for an outstanding park and waterway system year. Of these visits, 49 million are to parks and 39.5 protected and enhanced, for people, forever. million are to piers and jetties around the bays.

Parks Victoria exists to: Parks Victoria manages an asset portfolio of around ❚ conserve, protect, and enhance natural 25,000 assets. Assets facilitate recreational activities and and cultural values experiences for the community to learn, play, explore ❚ provide quality experiences, services and and enjoy Victoria’s parks. They also play a key role in information to its customers the protection of natural and cultural features. ❚ provide excellence and innovation in park management Assets managed include: ❚ contribute to the environmental, social and ❚ 59 visitor centre buildings economic wellbeing of Victorians. ❚ 760 shelters ❚ 1,039 toilets What we manage ❚ 594 viewing lookouts Parks Victoria is responsible for managing an ❚ 62 playgrounds expanding and diverse estate covering more than 4 ❚ 14,000km of roads million hectares, or about 17 per cent, of Victoria. ❚ 1,254 pedestrian and vehicular bridges This area includes national parks, urban parks, large ❚ 3,673km of walking tracks wilderness areas and 70 per cent of Victoria’s coastline. ❚ 84 sporting facilities, e.g. golf courses, Parks Victoria also manages a representative system of ovals and wickets marine national parks and marine sanctuaries. We are ❚ 236 piers and jetties the local port manager for Port Phillip Bay, Western ❚ 92 water access points, e.g. boat ramps, rowing Port and Port Campbell and the waterway manager for launches and slippings the Yarra and Maribyrnong rivers. ❚ 969 navigation aids.

8 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 PARKS VICTORIA’S BOARD

The Board has ultimate responsibility for The Board is responsible for directing and the governance of Parks Victoria. On the monitoring the business of Parks Victoria recommendation of the Minister, Board members and is accountable to the Minister for its are appointed by the Governor in Council for a overall performance. It delegates day-to-day period not exceeding three years. Members are responsibility for operations and administration eligible for reappointment. The Board operates to the Chief Executive and executive team. in accordance with the provisions of the Parks Victoria Act 1998. As at 30 June 2010, the Board members were:

Rob Gerrand, BA, FAMI, FAICD (Chairman) Ken King, Dip For, BSc (Hons) Mr Gerrand, Principal of marketing consultancy Mr King was Executive Director, Land and Fire Gerrand & Associates, has wide business experience in Management with DSE. Mr King is on the Country Fire finance, transport, agriculture and telecommunications. Authority Board, Metropolitan Fire and Emergency He is a Director of Alfred Health and of the Mental Services Board, the Habitat Trust and the Natural Health Research Institute and a former General Resources Conservation League. Manager of Group Public Affairs at ANZ. Noel Harvey, OAM, MAICD Clarice Ballenden, BA (Hons) MEd. Mr Harvey has extensive experience in local (Deputy Chairman) government with the Shires of Kyneton, Hepburn and Ms Ballenden works as an executive coach and was the Macedon Ranges and is a partner in a natural resource founder and Chief Executive Officer of an educational management company specialising in carbon and publishing company. She has held various senior vegetation offsets. Mr Harvey is Deputy Chairman of management positions in the public sector. Coliban Regional Water Authority.

Lois Appleby Jennifer Labourne, BBus, FCPA Ms Appleby is an Adjunct Professor with Victoria Ms Labourne is a former partner of Ernst & Young University and the Honorary Consul for Canada in and a Director of Finance and Business Services at Melbourne. She is a former Chief Executive Officer of Colac Area Health. She is the Deputy Chair of Health Tourism Victoria. Purchasing Victoria, a member of the Mental Health Research Institute and a member of Harness Racing Damein Bell Victoria’s audit committee. Mr Bell is the Manager of the Lake Condah Sustainable Development Project and the Chair of the Gunditj Jan Mahoney BA, PhD, FAICD Mirring Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation. He Dr Mahoney has extensive experience in agriculture. is a Director of Native Title Services Victoria Ltd and a She was Chief Executive Officer of Grainfoods CRC Ltd member of the Indigenous Advisory Committee for the and an Executive Manager with the Grains Research Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation and Development Corporation. She is a Director of Act 1999 (Cwth). the Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water Corporation, a member of the Victorian Catchment Management Rod Gowans, PSM Council and an Associate of Leadership Victoria. Mr Gowans has worked in executive roles responsible for the management of national parks, conservation reserves and the conservation of biodiversity. He is a member of the Victorian Catchment Management Council and a Trustee of the Trust for Nature.

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 9 ABOUT PARKS VICTORIA

Total meeting attendance in 2009-10

Number of meetings attended (out of 12) Rob Gerrand 12 Lois Appleby 11 Clarice Ballenden 10 Damein Bell 8 Rod Gowans 10 Noel Harvey 10 Ken King 12 Jennifer Labourne 11 Jan Mahoney 11

Board meetings are held on the last Friday of the month.

BOARD COMMITTEES

The Audit and Risk Management Committee The Environment Committee provides independent assists the Board to meet its financial reporting, advice to assist Parks Victoria to develop a strategic accounting, risk management, operational control and scientific approach to environmental management practices and compliance responsibilities. The of parks. The Committee met three times in 2009-10. Committee is supported by senior managers and Members were Rod Gowans (Committee Chair), Clarice internal and external auditors. The Board has overall Ballenden, Ken King, Jan Mahoney and Nancy Millis responsibility for risk management. Parks Victoria has (external committee member). a risk management strategy in line with Australian standards. The Committee met five times in 2009-10. The Tourism and Recreation Committee provides Members were Jennifer Labourne (Committee Chair, advice on key tourism and recreation opportunities independent committee member), Rob Gerrand to the Parks Victoria Board. The Committee met four (independent committee member), Noel Harvey times in 2009-10. Members were Clarice Ballenden (independent committee member), Ken King and Peter (Committee Chair), Rob Gerrand, Damein Bell, Lois Calder (external, independent committee member). Appleby and external members Andrew Fairley, Evan Hall and Anthony McIntosh. The Human Resources and Remuneration Committee makes recommendations to the Board on key human resources policies and issues, terms of employment for executives and strategic workforce issues. Remuneration is set at levels consistent with State Government policy. The Committee met once in 2009-10. Members were Noel Harvey (Committee Chair), Rob Gerrand, Jennifer Labourne and Jan Mahoney.

10 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE

Parks Victoria’s Chief Executive is appointed by the Board following consultation with the Minister. The Board reviews the performance of the Chief Executive on an annual basis.

Parks Victoria Board (Rob Gerrand, Chairman)

Margaret Gillespie Chief Legal Counsel

Mark Stone Chief Executive

Gerard O’Neill Deputy Chief Executive Office of the Chief Executive & Board Secretary

Ian Christie Neil McCarthy Jennifer Wolcott Andrew Minack Annie Volkering Trevor Miles General Manager General Manager General Manager General Manager General Manager Acting General Regional Parks Corporate Strategy Commercial Business Sustainable Manager Bays Management and Services Infrastructure and Maritime

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 11 ABOUT PARKS VICTORIA

The Year in Review Parks Victoria delivers a wide range of environmental, social and economic benefits for Victorians. In order to achieve its vision for Victoria’s parks and waterways, Parks Victoria has established seven strategic, long term goals. Each goal relates to a particular program area.

Program and goal Actions in 2009-10 Page

Caring for the natural environment s The Government establishing new parks to protect 14 River Red Gums Goal: Sustaining healthy parks in a s Extensive pest plant and animal control program 16–17 time of climate change s Supporting the delivery of 25,000 million litres of 17 environmental water to priority sites s Research delivered through 27 new projects and 42 19 Healthy parks ongoing projects. Visitor experience s Opening the new Queenscliff Harbour 22 s Delivering significant upgrades to Frankston and Rosebud piers 22 Goal: Providing healthy physical, social and s Improving Melbourne's metropolitan trail network connections 23–24 cultural experiences for people and planning approval for the Darebin Trail s Promoting the profile of the Great Ocean Walk and receiving 24–25 a further $4.1 million for improvements s Delivering the International Healthy Park Healthy People 26 Congress. Cultural heritage s Working towards joint management with the Yorta Yorta People 30–31

Healthy People s Employing five Yorta Yorta rangers to work on Yorta Yorta 31 Goals: Better understanding and working with Country. Indigenous people to care for Country. s Receiving two Indigenous employment awards 31 Protecting Victoria’s shared heritage s Conservation heritage works at Andersons Mill and Coolart 33 Homestead. Fire and emergency management s Delivering increased bushfire planning and prevention activities 36 in and around Melbourne through the Melbourne Bushfire Goal: Providing responsive and professional Protection program fire and emergency management s Working with DSE to deliver the planned burn program 36 s Responding to the 2009 Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission. 36 s Implementing the first year of the recovery program from the 38 2009 bushfire season. Commercial operations s Opening a new kiosk at the Twelve Apostles 39 s Releasing a strategic management plan for Tidal River 39–40 Goal: Growing quality, commercial services s Request for tender process for Mount Buffalo Chalet 40 to support parks. s Reopening Wonthaggi State Coal Mine for underground tours 40 s Finalising new leasing arrangements for the Werribee Mansion. 40 Responsibly managing our resources s Implementing a new finance, budgeting and human 41 resource system Goal: Operating an efficient, effective s Supporting staff affected by the February 2009 bushfires and 44

Supporting Healthy Parks People and sustainable park service. involved in the Bushfires Royal Commission s Decreasing overall water consumption by 21 per cent. 48

12 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 HEALTHY PARKS

CARING FOR THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT

Parks Victoria manages a diverse and Parks Victoria’s conservation programs help to representative network of parks that are home reduce threats to parks and improve the health of to more than 4,300 native plants and 948 native the natural environment. animal species. The park network includes some of Victoria’s largest and most undisturbed Parks Victoria’s goal for this program is to sustain ecosystems – landscapes like the Alps, the Mallee, healthy parks in a time of climate change. grasslands and inland waters and wetlands. It covers Victoria’s marine national parks and This section highlights some of the activities sanctuaries that protect a wide array of marine Parks Victoria undertook during the year to care life. It also includes smaller, but important for the natural environment. urban parks.

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 13 HEALTHY PARKS

New River Red Gum parks River Red Gum forests are under increasing pressure Parks Victoria completed a wide range of activities to from climate change, drought and reduced water implement the new parks including: flows. To better protect these forests, State Parliament ❚ Employing former timber workers under an industry passed legislation in November 2009 to create new and adjustment program expanded national and other parks. The legislation ❚ Adopting a co-management approach with also enables establishment of Traditional Owner Land Traditional Owners Management Boards to jointly manage parks with ❚ Commencing an ecological thinning trial under the Traditional Owners. Active Forest Health program ❚ Preparing to phase out grazing licences with fencing The new and expanded parks were created on 29 June and stock watering assistance 2010 and this was celebrated at events in several of the ❚ Implementing domestic firewood collection zoning parks attended by the Minister for Environment and and arrangements Climate Change, Gavin Jennings. The new parks include ❚ Transferring DSE staff to Parks Victoria. four new national parks (Barmah, Gunbower, Lower Goulburn and Warby-Ovens) as well as three other new Management planning parks and two regional parks. The new parks, together Parks Victoria developed a new landscape management with additions to six existing parks, total more than planning framework that will revitalise park planning 100,000 hectares. The Murray River Park is expected to through the use of web 2.0 technology. The framework be created later in 2010. will also integrate with new planning approaches arising from the Land and Biodiversity White Paper.

Management planning for the Greater Alpine National Parks progressed using the wePlan Alpine website as a basis for development. Over 22,000 people visited the Mark Atkinson site to keep informed about progress of the draft plan, and Joel Ritchie at Barmah view discussion papers, contribute views and edit the National Park. first half of the working draft.

14 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 Approved management plans were released for: ❚ Great Otway National Park and Otway Forest Park ❚ Paddys Ranges and Kooyoora state parks ❚ Devilbend Natural Features Reserve.

The management plans for Alfred National Park, Lerderderg State Park, Lind National Park, Mount Lawson State Park, Mount Granya State Park, Wabba Wilderness Park and Werribee Gorge State Park were reviewed and extended for a further five years.

MANAGING RIVER RED GUM PARKS Landscape scale conservation WITH LOCAL KNOWLEDGE The Habitat 141º Alliance aims to restore and reconnect the landscapes spanning the South Australian and Local knowledge will inform the management Victorian borders. Parks Victoria continued its of the new River Red Gum parks. Traditional involvement in the Alliance, facilitating community Owners of the land are central to the future and government partnerships to deliver the Alliance’s care of the parks through co-management vision. During the year, on ground works were arrangements that are being established firstly delivered, a draft strategic plan prepared, and a brand, at Barmah National Park with the Yorta Yorta logo and promotional DVD seeking philanthropic People and Nyah-Vinifera Park with the Wadi investment were developed. Habitat 141º was included Wadi People. in the Land and Biodiversity White Paper and a strategic partnership was formed with MECU Limited. As part of the Active Forest Health Program, Parks Victoria has commenced an ecological Threatened species and communities thinning trial in the Barmah National Park with Parks Victoria works with DSE, research partners and two teams of former timber workers. These community organisations to protect threatened species. teams bring with them vast forest knowledge to Twelve months on from the trial reintroduction of the the program. Brush-tailed Rock-wallaby in the Grampians National Park, seven of the ten animals released have survived. Minister for the Environment and Climate In October, a further five Brush-tailed Rock-wallabies Change, Gavin Jennings said: “These workers were released into the park. Remote digital cameras are have worked day-in, day-out in these forests used to monitor the colony and make sure their habitat for years, so they have a wealth of knowledge remains fox free. The first wild-born pouch young was about the natural features and the history of recently discovered. what’s taken place.”

Forty-four captive-bred Regent Honeyeaters were The former timber workers will focus on released into Chiltern-Mt Pilot National Park in May improving and maintaining the health of the 2010. Of the birds released, 32 were confirmed at home River Red Gum forests and assist in delivering in the bush a number of weeks later. Monitoring of key aspects of active forest health management the birds continued through to July. Parks Victoria, such as weed and pest control, fencing works, DSE, Birds Australia, Friends of Chiltern-Mt Pilot restoring historic sites and fire risk work. National Park and other volunteers worked to protect The approach integrates scientific, traditional, the Regent Honeyeater’s habitat and ensure their local and industry knowledge into the continued existence in the wild. management of these forests – benefiting not only the environment, but also park visitors.

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 15 HEALTHY PARKS

Native animal management Pest plant management In partnership with DSE, Parks Victoria manages native Pest plants are a major threat to natural and animal populations to keep them at sustainable levels. agricultural values. In 2009-10, Parks Victoria continued Overabundant populations can cause defoliation to deliver extensive pest plant management programs. and lead to mass starvation. Annual programs are In Gippsland, Parks Victoria worked with the East undertaken at French Island, Mount Eccles, Raymond Gippsland Catchment Management Authority, Island and Snake Island to control koala populations. government agencies and community groups to The program at Snake Island is the first of the four implement the Highlands Down and Protecting the programs to achieve a balance between koala Best programs. The Highlands Down program focused population and food supply. In the late 1990s, Snake on biodiversity threats to the Eastern Highlands and Island’s koala population was estimated at 6,000 and downstream catchments – preventing the spread many died of starvation. In this year’s survey, 139 koalas of Cape Broom down the Wonnangatta catchment were observed, with the aim of the program to implant and Willows across the divide into east Gippsland. remaining fertile koalas with contraceptives. The Protecting the Best program targeted new and emerging infestations of Blue Periwinkle, Sea Spurge, At French Island, a contraceptive implant program Bluebell Creeper, Willow, English Broom and Blackberry is gradually replacing relocation practices. This year along the Snowy River. 256 adult koalas and 85 youngsters were relocated to Bunyip State Park. A further 96 female koalas Both programs used new technology with effective were implanted with contraceptives. At Mount Eccles results. GPS records were collected for weed mapping 361 koalas were implanted with contraceptives. At and aerial photography for future monitoring Raymond Island, 100 koalas were treated after a of weeds. Adding to the success of the programs population count in March showed the population of was the integrated approach taken – multiple 300 was growing quickly. land management agencies and community groups contributed, maximising the likelihood of Kangaroo management programs were not undertaken long-lasting success. during the year as population densities dropped due to drought conditions. Through the Good Neighbour program, Parks Victoria continued to work with private land-holders to deliver pest plant initiatives. The program focuses on controlling weeds on boundary areas between public and private land. Projects target established weeds like Patersons Curse, Serrated Tussock, Gorse, Ragwort, Blackberry and Cape Tulip.

Other pest plant control projects delivered during the year include: ❚ Monitoring and controlling Orange Hawkweed in over 1,000 hectares of the Alpine National Park with the Department of Primary Industries, and the Falls Creek, Mount Buller and Mount Stirling alpine resorts ❚ Surveying and controlling Grey Sallow Willow across the Bogong High Plains within the Alpine National Park and on the western fall and plateau within Mount Buffalo National Park with DSE, North The koala contraceptive East Catchment Management Authority and program. volunteer groups

16 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 ❚ Treating more than 6,000 hectares of Blackberry in as Chiltern-Mt Pilot, The Lakes and Little Desert national parks such as Alpine, Burrowa-Pine Mountain, French parks, as part of the Southern Ark program. Island, Yarra Ranges, Coopracambra, Mitchell River, Snowy River and Errinundra national parks Parks Victoria continued to work with the Sporting ❚ Treating invasive pine wildlings that survived fuel Shooters Association of Australia in pest animal control reduction burns as well as Blackberry and Sweet programs. At Murray-Sunset National Park, a program Pittosporum in Cobboboonee National Park has been running since November 2003, involving 23 ❚ Undertaking field surveys of 14 priority areas volunteers from the Nhill branch. Over 2,000 feral goats totalling around 40,000 hectares of public land, have now been eliminated from the park and volunteers which included 24,700 of Parks Victoria managed have dedicated over 6,000 hours to the program. land as part of the Glenelg Eden program. Parks included Lower Glenelg and Mount Richmond Parks Victoria treated over 190,000 hectares for national parks and Cape Nelson State Park. rabbits using a number of methods – baiting, warren Information on the pattern of weed dispersal was destruction and fumigation. Around 90 per cent of the gathered to help identify key weed hotspots area treated was in the Mallee national parks. Since ❚ Treating 774 weed infestations in the Great Otway the Mallee Bounce Back program began in 2004, rabbit National Park, Otway Forest Park, Anglesea Heath populations in the Mallee have declined significantly and other crown land reserves with DSE and the and the condition of the semi-arid woodlands has Colac Otway Shire as part of the Otway Eden improved. program. Environmental watering Pest animal management The prolonged drought has had a significant impact on Pest animals have a major impact on native animals and Victoria’s parks. The environmental watering program are a significant threat to biodiversity. To reduce the helps keep important ecosystems alive and creates a harm caused by pest animals, Parks Victoria implements network of drought refuges across the state. Water for extensive control programs throughout Victoria’s parks. the program is provided by the Australian Government, the Murray-Darling Basin Association and the Victorian The Grampians Ark fox baiting program, now in its Government. This year more than 25,000 million litres eighth year, covers 150,000 hectares of public land, of environmental water was delivered to priority including the Grampians National Park. The program sites, including Lindsay Island and Websters Lagoon in is delivering tangible results with nearly five times Murray-Sunset National Park, as well as Chalka Creek more native animals found in baited areas. On average and the Hattah Lakes in Hattah-Kulkyne National Park. there have been 28 animals trapped at baited sites compared to six at non-baited sites. The decline in the Protecting marine values fox population is also supported by a lower number of Parks Victoria participated in the Two Bays program this baits being taken – down by 52 per cent – and a 30 per summer. Now in its fifth year, the successful program is cent reduction in the amount of fox tracks seen in sand run by Pelican Expeditions and its partners to assess the pads. Each fox consumes around 180kg of live food health of Port Phillip and Western Port. The program annually and a significant proportion of that is native provides a great opportunity for bay managers, small mammals. Significantly reducing the number of community groups and other stakeholders to work foxes makes a real difference to native animals. together.

Fox control continued in the south-west of Victoria, in Parks Victoria participated in a number of research parks including Discovery Bay Coastal Park and Lower projects throughout the program, including one led by Glenelg and Cobboboonee national parks as part of the the DSE using sea-floor elevation models to produce Glenelg Ark program. Fox control was also undertaken habitat maps for much of Victoria’s near shore waters. in East Gippsland in parks where there are high This mapping helps to identify areas that may be at risk numbers of fauna species susceptible to predation, such from human activities.

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 17 HEALTHY PARKS

Marine pests A number of new species of marine pests were reported within or adjacent to marine parks. A new red algae species was identified by community volunteers at Point Cook Marine Sanctuary and Japanese kelp (Undaria pinnatifida) was found in the Apollo Bay Harbour, next to the Marengo Marine Sanctuary. In addition, an abalone viral disease (Abalone Ganglioneuritus virus) continued to spread along the west coast of Victoria causing high mortality in the abalone population.

To respond to these threats, Parks Victoria is working with DSE to assess distribution, identify possible control measures and actively engage and educate the community. Parks Victoria also promoted the importance of clean equipment and hygienic practices to visitors to avoid spread of the virus to other areas of the state.

Marine pest surveys were conducted in Shallow Inlet Marine and Coastal Park, Ricketts Point, Jawbone, Point Cooke and Marengo marine sanctuaries.

Monitoring and effectiveness The Signs of Healthy Parks monitoring program provides Parks Victoria with an understanding of the health of parks, evaluates the effectiveness conservation programs and provides early warning of The Two Bays Parks Victoria continued its monitoring program in emerging threats. program. marine national parks and sanctuaries. Sub-tidal reef monitoring was undertaken in Cape Howe, Point The program was initiated in 2007-08 at six parks: Hicks and Port Phillip Heads marine national parks and Brisbane Ranges, Grampians, Wilsons Promontory and intertidal reef monitoring in Bunurong, Port Phillip Great Otway national parks, Plenty Gorge Parklands Heads and Point Addis marine national parks and and Yaringa Marine National Park. Draft monitoring Ricketts Point, Jawbone, Point Cooke, Barwon Bluff, plans prepared for these parks were refined during Point Danger and Mushroom Reef marine sanctuaries. the year and implementation at the Grampians, Great Otway and Wilsons Promontory national parks Water quality commenced. Roll-out of the second phase of the Poor water quality flowing in from catchments is a program commenced with draft monitoring plans threat to marine national parks and marine sanctuaries. underway for the Alpine National Park and Corner Inlet Parks Victoria supported the EPA and Melbourne Water Marine National Park. in developing a Better Bays and Waterways plan. The plan, released in December 2009, identifies a broad range of actions to improve the water quality entering Port Phillip and Western Port from urban and rural areas. It will be implemented over five years with Parks Victoria playing a support role in a number of actions.

18 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 For the first time, Parks Victoria used remote activated ❚ Examination of the effectiveness of ecological cameras in its annual small mammal monitoring thinning for maintaining and improving the health of program at Anglesea Heath and the Great Otway River Red Gums in Barmah National Park National Park. Remote cameras provide accurate ❚ Development of a framework for measuring visitor information for much less time and money than impacts on natural values at key tourism locations traditional techniques. Images captured showed and design and implementation of monitoring at the number of foxes in baited areas decreased designated sites including the Grampians, Great significantly compared to unbaited areas. Sightings of Otway and Alpine national parks. small mammals such as swamp wallabies, long-nosed bandicoots, southern brown bandicoots and common In addition to new research, 42 research projects brushtail possums increased. continued. These included: ❚ A range of projects that investigate the effect of Other monitoring activities carried out during the fire on flora and fauna in the Mallee, far south-west reporting period include: Victoria and the Grampians and Mount Buffalo ❚ Monitoring of threatened flora and fauna species, national parks pest animals and over-abundant kangaroo and koala ❚ Further development of fertility control techniques populations at many parks across the state for over-abundant native animal populations ❚ Monitoring of grassland condition at more than ❚ An investigation into the effects of climate change twenty grassland reserves on flora and fauna in the Alpine National Park. ❚ Weed monitoring protocols were applied at eleven parks including Grampians, Great Otway and Dandenong Ranges national parks.

Research program Parks Victoria collaborates with universities and government research institutions through its Research Partners Program. The program collects essential environmental research that is used to support park management. The research program has developed over time to focus on large, complex, long-term projects.

Over the past year, 27 new research projects commenced. These included: ❚ Development and implementation of techniques to detect new feral pig, goat and deer populations, focusing on French Island and Warby Range national parks and Discovery Bay Coastal Park ❚ A study evaluating different ways to improve compliance in marine national parks and marine sanctuaries ❚ An examination of the costs and benefits of various approaches used to monitor kangaroo numbers at Wyperfeld National Park ❚ Development of a cost-effective surveillance and control program for weeds focusing on Orange Hawkweed in the Alpine National Park

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 19

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VISITOR EXPERIENCE

Parks and waterways are for everyone to discover operators, and sponsors and runs events. and enjoy. There are significant health benefits Parks Victoria’s goal in this program is to provide for communities and individuals who spend healthy physical, social and cultural experiences time in nature. Parks Victoria provides a range for people. of visitor services to encourage people to spend time in parks. Some of the activities Parks Victoria undertook in 2009-10 to encourage visitors to Victoria’s parks Parks Victoria manages around 1,500 visitor sites are described in this section. to offer a diverse range of opportunities for visitors to experience parks. To support visitor experiences, Parks Victoria builds and maintains park and recreational facilities, operates a seven- day-a-week information line, runs education programs, facilitates community programs, works with volunteers, develops and promotes nature-based tourism products, supports tour

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 21 HEALTHY PEOPLE

Queenscliff Improving and developing facilities Harbour. Each year, Parks Victoria upgrades and improves the Parks Victoria improved infrastructure around the park infrastructure and facilities that enable people to bays. Premier John Brumby officially opened the access and enjoy parks. new Queenscliff Harbour in March 2010 after a $38 million redevelopment. The Victorian Government Improvements were delivered at two popular visitor sites contributed $5 million to the redevelopment, attracting – the Twelve Apostles and the Wonthaggi State Coal a further $33 million in private sector investment. The Mine. A kiosk was added to the Twelve Apostles Visitor redevelopment includes an expanded safe harbour, Centre, opening to visitors in time for the busy summer improved environmental protection, an expanded season. At Wonthaggi, $1.5 million of works were marine servicing area, improved boat sewage completed to make the State Coal Mine safe for visitors. pump-out and fuelling facilities, the latest travel lift technology and a working port for the commercial Facilities were improved in urban parks around fishing and charter vessel fleets. Melbourne. At Yarra Bend Park, structural and drainage improvements were made to Studley Park Boathouse Other improvements around the bays include: and Kanes Bridge was improved with upgrades to the ❚ A $2 million upgrade of Frankston Pier decking and handrails. ❚ A $1.4 million upgrade to Rosebud Pier ❚ Refurbishment of Burnley Wharf and Seaford Pier Improvements were made to toilet facilities in a ❚ Additional car parking at Patterson River number of parks. Toilets from Cardinia Reservoir Park ❚ Installation of 10 seagrass-friendly seasonal moorings were relocated to the You Yangs Regional Park to at Dromana and 10 at Blairgowrie meet the growing mountain bike visitor use of the ❚ Improved access to Gunnamatta Ocean Beach area. Toilets were then replaced in Cardinia Reservoir ❚ A new fishing platform at Corinella Jetty. Park. Four new toilets were completed in Alpine National Park at Edmondsons, Fitzgerald, Bivouac and Tawonga huts.

22 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 Asset management Linking People and Spaces Parks Victoria manages over 25,000 assets. Assets Linking People and Spaces, originally released in 2002, on land that are managed by Parks Victoria as a is a strategy for Melbourne’s regional-scale, nature- Committee of Management are recognised in the based open space network. Eight years on, there is a financial statements in this report. Assets managed by need to update the strategy. Linking People and Spaces Parks Victoria on behalf of the Crown are recognised 2010 will provide a 20-year strategy for continued by DSE. growth and improvement of Melbourne’s open space network. Parks Victoria is leading an interagency team Asset management is an ongoing challenge. Ageing that includes DSE, Melbourne Water, Growth Areas land and marine infrastructure places significant Authority, Municipal Association of Victoria and the demands on financial and human resources. Parks Department of Planning and Community Development Victoria continues to develop a more sustainable to update the strategy. A draft will be released for asset base by ensuring infrastructure is focused on public comment in September 2010. community need and visitor safety and by pursuing maintenance and replacement funding strategies. Community gardens and dog-friendly parks Minister for Environment and Climate Change Gavin Assets are monitored on a regular basis to ensure they Jennings officially opened the Carome Homestead are safe. Asset maintenance is undertaken throughout and community garden in Mernda on 17 November the year, focusing on key tourism and recreation assets 2009. Parks Victoria and Mint Inc, the Committee to ensure visitor safety. Specialist assessments are of Management for Carome Homestead, worked in undertaken on an as needs basis. partnership to develop a community garden and a café/ restaurant at the homestead. Planning new urban parks Parks Victoria made significant progress towards Parks Victoria also worked with the local community to establishing three new parks in Melbourne’s fast- set up gardens in the Dandenong Valley Parklands and growing north and west – Merri Creek Parklands, Braeside Park. Community gardens at Cardinia Creek Werribee River Park and Toolern Creek Park. Master Parklands and Werribee are well underway and will be plans were completed for the three parks. Construction opened in late 2010. of stage one of the planned visitor facilities for the parks is also well underway. Once completed in late Parks Victoria introduced dog-friendly areas at Cardinia 2010, the parks will be opened to the public. Creek Parklands in February 2010. Dog-friendly areas are planned to be opened at Yarra Bend and Banksia Parks Victoria continued to work with other parks in early 2010-11. management agencies to establish the Barwon River Parklands. Concept plans were developed for new The Metropolitan Trail Network visitor facilities at Taits Point, Lake Connewarre State Over $2.1 million of trail improvements were delivered Game Reserve. Construction of the new visitor facilities during 2009-10 through the Metropolitan Trail Network is due for completion in late 2010. Grants program. The program provides grants to local governments to carry out improvements to the trail Master planning for Cardinia Creek Parklands (northern network. section), Devil Bend Park, Point Nepean National Park and Frankston Reservoir Park progressed and works Eight projects were completed during the year: will commence following completion of planning in ❚ Planning of the Kororoit Creek Trail 2010-11. (City of Hobsons Bay) ❚ Plenty River Trail from Partingtons Flat to the Ring Road (Banyule City Council) ❚ Planning and design of the final linking trail from the Mullum Mullum Creek Trail linking Yarra Valley

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 23 HEALTHY PEOPLE

Parklands to EastLink (City of Manningham) Tourism ❚ Taylors Creek Trail from Burrowye Crescent to the Parks Victoria is one of the largest providers and Creek crossing (City of Brimbank) facilitators of tourism in Victoria, significantly ❚ Hallam Valley Trail from Shrives Road to Narre contributing to state and regional economies. Parks Warren/Cranbourne Road and from Hallam Road to Victoria works in partnership with the tourism industry Menindee Terrace (City of Casey) to facilitate sustainable tourism opportunities in parks. ❚ A section of the Maroondah Aqueduct Trail (Shire of Nillumbik) Highlights during the year include: ❚ Warburton Rail Trail from Lilydale Railway Station to ❚ Signing a Memorandum of Understanding with Mercy College (Shire of Yarra Ranges) Conservation Volunteers Australia (CVA) to develop Parks Victoria’s research programs into CVA Planning for the Darebin Creek Trail project progressed ‘NatureWise’ tourism products with a VCAT decision that will allow the connection ❚ Working with Ecotourism Australia to offer incentives of the Lower Darebin Creek Trail to the Main Yarra to licensed tour operators to become eco-certified Trail. Parks Victoria also negotiated an agreement with ❚ Participating in the Australian Tourism Exchange Latrobe Golf Club for the sale of land for the trail link. tradeshow to promote the premium tourism products and experiences offered by Parks Victoria Bays and Maritime Initiative and its commercial operators to the international Over the past three years, Parks Victoria has been market working with government departments and agencies ❚ Winning the RACV Award for Unique to strategically plan and develop Victoria’s bays and Accommodation for Parks Victoria’s Wilderness maritime areas. During the year, Parks Victoria was Retreats at the 2009 Victorian Tourism Awards. appointed lead agency for maritime precinct planning. In addition, a new maritime precincts policy was Icon walks included in the State Planning Policy Framework. Both The Grampians Peak Trail is one of Victoria’s new icon these achievements will help cut the red tape required walks, and along with the Great Ocean Walk, is a key for statutory approvals. initiative in Victoria’s Nature-based Tourism Strategy 2008-2012. In June 2010, Minister for Regional and Parks Victoria finalised plans for two key maritime Rural Development Jacinta Allan announced a $1.3 precincts – the Portarlington Safe Harbour Master million Regional Infrastructure Development Fund Plan (released October 2009) and the Williamstown grant for the trail. The grant will fund a three-day loop Foreshore Strategic Plan (released April 2010). Both track from Halls Gap in the Grampians. The project is plans aim to accommodate growth in recreational and scheduled for completion within two years. commercial boating on Port Phillip Bay. Great Ocean Walk A new dive attraction Parks Victoria continued to work with its tourism The ex-HMAS Canberra, a former warship, was the partners to promote the Great Ocean Walk. A first artificial reef specifically created for diving in marketing campaign featuring the Great Ocean Walk Victoria when it was scuttled in September 2009. Lying ran during the year that was developed by Tourism in about 28 metres of water, the ex-HMAS Canberra is Victoria to assist positioning Victoria as a great nature- an interesting site for divers to explore as many of its based tourism destination. original fixtures have been preserved. Since opening to the public in December 2009, it has proved popular The Art of Walking is a documentary that followed with about 99 licensed tour operator trips and 129 three remarkable people, John Francis, Katarina Witt public trips. Dive Victoria, the licensed tour operator and Michael Milton, as they walked the Great Ocean with exclusive use of two moorings at the site, has Walk. A Parks Victoria ranger also features in the guided more than 4,300 divers on the site. documentary. As part of Tourism Victoria’s marketing campaign, 250,000 copies of the documentary were

24 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 circulated in The Sunday Age and Sydney Morning Number of Licenced Herald in April 2010. It was also screened on National Tour Operators Geographic’s channel. 270 239 267 281 311

Premier John Brumby announced in June 2010 that the 400 Great Ocean Walk will be completed with a further $4.1 million from the Regional Infrastructure Development Fund. The grant will fund track realignments, new trailheads, a new underpass and extended campsites. 300

Supporting licensed tour operators Parks Victoria licenses tour operators, many of which are small businesses operating in regional areas, who run tours and activities on Victorian public land. At 200 30 June 2010, there were 311 operators licensed, a 14 per cent increase on 2008-09. Of these operators, 235 held one-year licences and 76 held three-year licences. Licensed tour operators provided activities for 185,041 100 people during the year, made up of 88,241 adults and 96,800 children.

Bushwalking is the most common activity offered by 0 05/06 06/07 07/08 08/09 09/10 operators, with 52 per cent offering it as a tour activity. Other activities include: bus tours (provided by 30 per cent), bird watching (provided by 20 per cent) and ❚ The Legends on the Lawn concert, Spring Harvest canoe or kayak tours (provided by 19 per cent). Picnic, Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt and a series of Twilight Cinema evenings at Werribee Park Nine licensed tour operators were contracted by Parks ❚ Sponsoring the Victorian Regional Achievement and Victoria to help with a variety of fire recovery projects. Community Awards and Victorian Tourism Awards Tour operators delivered track assessments and ❚ Providing in-kind support for events on the Yarra maintenance works, heritage assessments and four- River during the Moomba Festival and running wheel-drive track assessment. The program assisted Ranger Roo activities in the Children’s Garden. tour operators whose businesses were recovering from the 2009 bushfires. Projects were completed at the Education and interpretation Wilsons Promontory National Park, Cathedral Ranges Parks Victoria’s education and interpretation and Bunyip state parks and Walhalla Historic Area. programs aim to increase community knowledge and understanding of Victoria’s parks and biodiversity Events while promoting Healthy Parks Healthy People. More Each year Parks Victoria supports hundreds of events than 130,000 people participated in education and as an organiser, sponsor, contributor, venue provider interpretation programs during the year. or exhibitor. The program includes talks and activities that are run Highlights from this year’s program of events include: daily at Buchan Caves and the Werribee Park Mansion. ❚ Organising and hosting the inaugural International Interpretive activities are also delivered through the Healthy Parks Healthy People Congress Junior Ranger Program over school holidays at Serendip ❚ Sponsoring the Clean Up Australia Day campaign and Sanctuary and Wilsons Promontory, Mount Buffalo, its launch on the Yarra River Point Nepean, Great Otway and Dandenong Ranges national parks.

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 25 HEALTHY PEOPLE

Curriculum-based programs, supported by the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development, were held at Wilsons Promontory and the Dandenong Ranges national parks, Serendip Sanctuary and Brambuk – the National Park and Cultural Centre in the Grampians National Park. More than 15,000 Victorian school students attended a program at one of these education centres.

The Environment Corps program provided funding for students from five schools to work alongside park rangers on a range of conservation projects. Camberwell Grammar joined the program for the first time, delivering a tree-replacement program in INTERNATIONAL HEALTHY PARKS Wattle Park. HEALTHY PEOPLE CONGRESS

The inaugural International Healthy Parks The partnership between Lara Primary School and Healthy People Congress attracted 1,200 Serendip Sanctuary continued. The school holds classes participants from 37 countries and 300 daily in their classroom at the Sanctuary. During the keynote speakers and presenters. It successfully Healthy Parks Healthy People Congress, students from generated discussion and awareness of the Grades 3 and 4 provided guided tours of the Sanctuary growing evidence of the connection between to delegates. human health and spending time in nature. Parks Victoria supported DSE’s Summer by the Sea At the opening of the Congress, Premier John program by delivering activities that promoted Brumby announced that from 1 July 2010, park understanding and awareness of Victoria’s marine and entry would be free to encourage people to coastal environments. Activities included walks and get active in the great outdoors. The Premier talks, rock pool rambles and mudflat meanders at parks said encouraging people to get out and about including Port Campbell National Park, Barwon Bluff in Victoria’s parks was good for community Marine Sanctuary and Port Phillip. wellbeing and good for regional economies. Volunteers The Congress and its keynote speakers Friends groups, individuals, schools, corporate generated significant media coverage, volunteers and special interest groups provide positively promoting Healthy Parks Healthy invaluable support to Parks Victoria. This year, People research to a wider audience. Media volunteers dedicated 25,348 days to activities in coverage included 37 print articles, 48 radio 116 parks and reserves across the state. The time interviews and six television stories. volunteered is the equivalent of an additional 101 The research and experience shared by the full-time employees to Parks Victoria. Of the time keynote speakers was far-reaching, informative volunteered, 77 per cent was spent on conservation and practical. projects. Many volunteers have contributed years of valuable service to the environment such as the Friends The new networks and partnerships formed at of the Dandenong Ranges National Park and Friends of the Congress will be invaluable in taking the Hattah-Kulkyne National Park who both celebrated 25 Healthy Parks Healthy People agenda around years of volunteering with Parks Victoria. the world.

26 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 Volunteer contribution This year 161 projects were funded including grants to: over the last 5 years (hours) ❚ The Barmah Cattleman’s Association to restore the heritage-listed muster yards and buildings in the 000 186 177 191 161 192 Barmah National Park ❚ The Tarrengower Cactus Control Committee to 200 control wheel cactus in Maldon Historic Reserve ❚ The Friends of the Prom to construct a viewing area and nature trail in Wilsons Promontory National Park 190 ❚ The Australian Deer Association to monitor deer in the Alpine, Mount Buffalo, Burrowa-Pine Mountain and Snowy River national parks. 180 Community engagement Some sections of the community are under-represented

170 in park visitation, often because of language, cultural and access barriers. Parks Victoria works with local government and community agencies to deliver programs that aim to reduce or remove these barriers 160 and encourage culturally diverse or disadvantaged communities to experience parks.

150 The Bilingual Tour Guide program is one initiative 05/06 06/07 07/08 08/09 09/10 breaking down barriers for people from non-English speaking backgrounds. Parks Victoria’s Campground Host program provides volunteers with the opportunity to support day-to- The main objective of the course is to provide people day management of campgrounds during the busiest from culturally and linguistically diverse communities times of year. This year, 63 volunteers took part in the with improved knowledge about the recreational program. The program was extended to include a opportunities in Victoria’s parks and how to access and ‘walk host’ on the Great Ocean Walk. This volunteer make the most of them. During the year, 15 students provided practical advice and assistance to walkers, and completed training to become bilingual coastal tour developed good relationships with local businesses and guides. Students came from diverse backgrounds tour operators along the walk. including Chinese, African, Russian and Greek-speaking

The four-wheel-drive Campground Host Program expanded outside the Alpine National Park to another 13 campgrounds state-wide, attracting 195 volunteers. A further 45 volunteers participated in the program at the Alpine National Park.

Healthy Parks Healthy People Community Grants Healthy Parks Healthy People Community Grants are provided to community groups to undertake projects in Victoria’s parks.

Parks Victoria's new bilingual guides.

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 27 breakout overset copy

HEALTHY PEOPLE

communities. Students were trained in tour guiding and coastal environments and will now provide guided tours to members of their community. The Bilingual Tour Guides course is a partnership between Northern Melbourne Institute of TAFE, the Federal Government’s Caring for our Country grants program and Parks Victoria.

Other examples of programs and activities Parks Victoria participated in include: ❚ Working with the Victorian Multicultural Commission to promote parks. As part of this partnership, Parks QUARANTINE STATION REVISITED Victoria held a forum for Melbourne’s African Earlier in the year, Rosa Miot visited Point community, attended the Viva Victoria festival and Nepean Quarantine Station for the first time sponsored Cultural Diversity Week since she and her family arrived in Australia ❚ Celebrating Cultural Diversity Week with the City by boat in 1952. The place has a particular of Whittlesea. A cultural event – ‘Jindi Worabak’ (to significance for her. Rosa, her brother, Pasquale, unite) – was held at Hawkstowe Picnic Area in Plenty and their mother had an unscheduled stop Gorge Park, bringing together different cultural there on their voyage to Melbourne to join the groups and celebrating Aboriginal traditions rest of the family. ❚ Holding a multicultural day as part of the Two Bays program. People from 18 different nations Rosa, who was five at the time, has a hazy celebrated Australia Day on board the Pelican 1, recollection of the Quarantine Station as a sailing around Port Phillip Bay strange place with large gloomy buildings. ❚ Supporting the Thomastown Turkish Women’s Pasquale has much stronger memories of this Recreational Group in a multicultural art project cold winter’s day on Port Philip Bay. using traditional Turkish handwork to illustrate Victoria’s native animals and plants. “As an eight-year-old, I have a clear recollection of being passed down a rope Visitor research ladder by other passengers, and my mother’s The Community Perception Monitor is undertaken anguish that I might fall in the water, put into on alternate years to gather information from the a small boat and taken to a building which community about Parks Victoria’s management of faced the water. Our clothes were taken from parks. The majority of indicators remained stable us and we were given a blanket to keep warm in 2010. Two indicators experienced small but in front of an open fire. After a couple of significant declines: hours our clothes were returned. We were ❚ Parks Victoria as a management of national, state, then taken back to the ship and the following regional parks and conservation reserves (-5 per cent) morning arrived at Station Pier.” ❚ Parks Victoria as an efficient manager (-5 per cent).

Rosa is delighted that the Quarantine Station has The 2009 bushfires are likely to have had a negative been so well preserved and is now open to the impact on community perception of Parks Victoria, as public. She is happy it is being promoted as an was seen after the 2003 bushfires. These issues relate important historical site that is also educational, to the perception of Parks Victoria’s management especially for the future generations of those of fire prevention and fire control. These declines whose parents migrated here. did not affect visitation, which remained within the target range.

28 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 Visitor advice and bookings

Calls to Email enquiries Visits to Online bookings Year 13 1963 answered Parkweb (introduced in 2007) 2009-10 118,104 8,131 3,140,727 8,790 2008-09 111,919 8,163 2,776,713 6,481 2007-08 123,000 6,400 2,762,404 5,509 2006-07 117,152 6,100 2,676,178 n/a 2005-06 102,265 5,000 1,716,807 n/a

Parks Victoria also conducts a biennial onsite Visitor Numbers to parks satisfaction survey of approximately 3,800 visitors at 51 and piers (millions) parks or piers across the estate. The Parks Satisfaction Index in 2009-10 was 71, slightly higher than 2007- 69.1 66.4 73.5 76.1 88.5 08’s index of 66. This improvement was due to service improvements made at sites, as well as factors that are 100 outside management control, such as the weather. The pier satisfaction index also improved four points from 52 to 56. 90 The Visitor Number Monitor is a biennial survey covering a sample of mostly Victorians but also interstate and overseas visitors. The survey was not conducted in 2009-10. The count from the previous 80 monitor was 88.5 million annual visits to the Parks Victoria estate, comprising 49 million visits to parks and 39.5 million visits to piers. This is an average growth of 2.8 per cent per annum in visits since monitoring 70 began in 2001.

Visitor advice and bookings Parks Victoria operates a seven-day-a-week information 60 service. The service provides general advice and current 01/02 02/03 04/05 06/07 08/09 information about parks, events and temporary closures. Parks Victoria’s Information Centre assisted 118,104 callers and answered 8,131 email enquiries in 2009-10.

Visits to Parks Victoria’s website have increased by more than 1.4 million in the past five years. To keep up with new technology and increasing demand, Parks Victoria began a project to upgrade its existing website. The new website will use web 2.0 technology and will be a collaborative forum with information contributed from community partnerships, key stakeholders and active parks users. The new website will be up and running next year.

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 29 HEALTHY PEOPLE

CULTURAL HERITAGE

For the Aboriginal community in Victoria, the Co-management with Traditional Owners land Parks Victoria manages is an essential In November 2009, the State Government announced element of their social, spiritual, economic it would be establishing Traditional Owner Land and physical wellbeing. Around 10,400 of the Management Boards to co-manage Barmah National archaeological cultural heritage sites registered Park with the Yorta Yorta People and Nyah Vinifera with Aboriginal Affairs Victoria are found in Park with the Wadi Wadi People. parks. While most sites are physical, others have no physical form but are still significant to the Parks Victoria has been working with the Wadi Wadi living culture of Aboriginal people through their and Yorta Yorta people to progress and support the link to ancestors, traditions, language, story and establishment of Traditional Owner Land Management ceremonies. Boards in line with the Government’s River Red Gum commitment. Parks Victoria and the Yorta Yorta Nation In addition to Aboriginal heritage sites, Parks Aboriginal Corporation developed a Community Victoria manages post-Settlement heritage Strengthening Plan to identify both party’s needs and assets, including 150 historic buildings, gardens resources for implementing co-management at and 2,500 historic places and collections. These Barmah National Park. historic places, objects and sites help people understand the beliefs, hopes and aspirations One of Parks Victoria’s Executive was appointed to of previous generations and give an insight into the Yorta Yorta Joint Body. This body advises the what life was like for them. Minister for Environment and Climate Change on the management of areas set out in the Yorta Yorta Parks Victoria's goals in this program are to Co-operative Management Agreement. better understand and work with Indigenous people to care for Country and to protect Victoria's shared heritage.

30 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 In partnership with the Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Aboriginal employment Corporation and the Federal Government’s Department In addition to the Yorta Yorta rangers team, Parks of the Environment, Water Heritage and Arts, Parks Victoria recruited a further 14 new Aboriginal staff Victoria employed five Yorta Yorta People to work members bringing the percentage of Aboriginal staff as rangers in Barmah National Park and other parks from 5.5 per cent in 2008-09 to 7.2 per cent. on Yorta Yorta Country. The federal program will contribute $2 million over four years to the initiative. Parks Victoria’s commitment to Aboriginal employment Over the next three years, these new rangers will was recognised by the Institute of Public Administration undertake an intensive training and development Australia. Parks Victoria received the Indigenous program, completing a Certificate III in Conservation Employment Initiative Award for its achievements in and Land Management, a Certificate IV in Business and increasing workforce participation of Aboriginal people a Diploma in Governance. in the Victorian public sector. The award acknowledged Parks Victoria’s commitment to supporting Aboriginal Parks Victoria continued to work with the Barengi employment and economic development. Gadjin Land Council (Wotjobaluk, Jadawadjali, Jaadwa, Wergaia and Yupagulk peoples) for the management Parks Victoria’s dedication to Aboriginal employment of the Little Desert and Wyperfeld national parks, was further recognised by WISE Employment, Lake Albacutya Regional Park and Mt Arapiles – Tooan together with the Northern Close the Gap Indigenous State Park. Parks Victoria also worked effectively with Employment Working Group, at their Business the Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owner Aboriginal Recognition Ceremony. Corporation through the Budj Bim Council for the co- management of the Mt Eccles National Park – Budj Bim Heritage program at Point Nepean National Park in south-west Victoria. A planning team commenced Point Nepean played an important role in shaping the work with the Gunditjmara People to develop the early settlement, quarantine and defence of Victoria. state’s first Joint Park Management Plan for the Mount Parks Victoria is developing an interpretation program Eccles National Park – Budj Bim. The plan will also for the park that conveys this history to visitors. include other parks in the Gunditjmara landscape – Comprising self-guided tours, interpretation signs and Lower Glenelg, Mount Napier and Mount Richmond web-based oral histories, this program builds on the national parks and Discovery Bay Coastal Park. extensive conservation repair and maintenance works being implemented and the progressive opening of several of the historic buildings with interpretive displays.

Parks Victoria completed a Conservation Management Plan for the former army firing range. Conservation Management Plans are also in place for the Point Nepean forts, the Quarantine Station and the South Channel Fort. Together, they provide guidance for the future conservation of the park’s heritage values.

Yorta Yorta staff at Barmah National Park.

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 31 HEALTHY PEOPLE

PROM’S RICH HISTORY UNCOVERED

Anyone who has visited Wilsons Promontory National increasing our understanding of this cultural Park will know the beauty of its rugged coastlines and landscape. diverse flora and fauna. What is not as obvious is the rich cultural heritage that also characterises the area. Historic sites throughout the park also provide Exploring the park further reveals archaeological sites evidence of a fascinating European history that include shell ‘middens’ and flaked stone artefacts. that includes sealing and whaling, coastal and These represent an early history of Aboriginal geological surveying, prospecting and mining, occupation dating back at least 6,500 years. timber milling and pastoral runs.

The February 2009 bushfire that affected half of Eighteen new historic sites representing these the park led to more discoveries about this area’s activities were discovered during the post-fire cultural heritage. Detailed surveys were undertaken survey. Discoveries made include confirmation of to assess the effects of the fire on both Aboriginal an early attempt to settle on the north-western and European sites of significance. region of Wilsons Promontory. The location of the Seaforth settlement and township’s pub near Traditional Owner groups worked with Parks Victoria Mount Singapore were confirmed. to assess 45 known Aboriginal sites. During this time, they also identified 37 new Aboriginal places, some The first tangible evidence of one of Victoria’s extending over large areas and estimated to comprise earliest tin mines established post-World War I thousands of artefacts. Although previous records was also found in the Mount Hunter region. indicated that most of the Aboriginal archaeological The small settlement comprised rough sites are along the coast, new inland places were weatherboard huts, a blacksmith forge, a store discovered during these assessments, greatly and explosives magazine.

32 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 Ritchie’s Hut rebuilt The rebuild of Ritchie’s Hut, on the Howqua River near Mansfield, was completed during the year with a lot of help from the community. Volunteers contributed 2,500 hours to the project. The original hut was lost in the Great Divide fires in 2006-07. The rebuild commenced in May 2008 with community volunteers, the Victorian High Country Huts Association, the Ritchie family and CHALET TURNS 100 Parks Victoria. Volunteers sourced timber from local forests, which they cut into slabs using a traditional The much loved Mount Buffalo Chalet turned adze and broad axe. The hut was then dismantled and 100 this year. Nearly 2,000 turned out for the transported to 8 Mile Flat by hand, pack-horse and celebrations in May. helicopter. The rebuilt hut reopened in April 2010. For generations, the chalet was the place to go for a weekend getaway. The centenary celebrations were a time for the community to gather and reminisce about time spent at the chalet.

Chief Ranger Peter Jacobs said: “It was fantastic to see the community coming along in such great numbers. Among the many guests on the day were former chalet workers, guests, Community bus drivers, and relatives of the founders of celebrates Ritchie's Hut the chalet. Everyone has a chalet tale to tell. rebuild. The day really underlined that this place is extremely important to people and part of our Heritage works shared history.” With $20,000 of funding from Heritage Victoria, a series of informative signs were installed at Andersons Visitors filled the halls of the chalet to inspect Mill in Smeaton. They provide information about the its many historic artefacts, ornaments and history of each of the heritage buildings and structures, photographs. Local staff and volunteers in the flour milling industry and the Anderson family, and period dress played croquet on the lawns. Music allow visitors to take a self-guided tour. was provided by the Mount Beauty Brass Band and local musicians. The ranger-guided tours Parks Victoria received a grant of $131,000 from the and behind-the-scenes look at the chalet were Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the also well received. Arts for conservation heritage works at Andersons Mill. The grant funded repairs to the historic trestle legs, The State Government has been working flume and wheel structures. The majority of the works with the community to ensure a sound future were completed during the year. for the chalet. Parks Victoria took over the management of the chalet in May last year. Parks Victoria received a further grant of $72,727 Since then, Parks Victoria has run a public from the Australian Government Jobs Fund for tender process seeking interested investors. heritage repairs at Coolart Homestead. The grant Legislation was introduced into parliament to funded repainting of the exterior of the homestead, increase the leasing period to up to 50 years. replacement of rotted timber on the veranda and other minor maintenance works.

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 33

SUPPORTING HEALTHY PARKS HEALTHY PEOPLE

FIRE AND EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

Parks Victoria works with DSE to prevent, prepare for, respond to and recover from bushfires on public land. Parks Victoria also supports lead agencies to manage other emergencies, such as floods, storms, cetacean strandings, oil spills and search and rescue.

Parks Victoria’s goal in this program is to provide responsive and professional fire and emergency management.

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 35 SUPPORTING HEALTHY PARKS HEALTHY PEOPLE

Over the course of the hearings, the Commission heard evidence from 434 witnesses. Parks Victoria prepared 30 witness statements and 10 Parks Victoria staff members appeared as witnesses before the commission.

Parks Victoria supported DSE to implement recommendations of the Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission’s Interim Report released on 17 August 2009, such as the new Code Red/Catastrophic Fire Danger Ratings. There will be a continued involvement following release of the final report.

Melbourne Bushfire Protection program In July 2009, the Victorian Government allocated $21 million over four years to improve fire management planning and prevention activities in and around the outer Melbourne fringe. Parks Victoria is leading the program, working with DSE, the Country Fire Authority, Metropolitan Fire and Emergency Services Board and Bushfire response the Municipal Association of Victoria. There were 609 bushfires reported across the state during the 2009-10 season, affecting 37,232 hectares. In the first year of the program, Parks Victoria increased Of the bushfires reported, 205 started in Parks Victoria fire preparation works on public land and improved managed areas, burning 8,708 hectares. The largest community information and engagement. of these started on 2 November 2009 at Cape Conran in East Gippsland, resulting in 4,667 hectares of land In 2009-10, $4.1 million was spent on being burnt. activities such as: ❚ The purchase of eight ‘slip on’ units for fire fighting Planned burning ❚ Creation of 21 new positions to deliver the program Each year, Parks Victoria works with DSE to prepare fire ❚ Mapping and spatial analysis of the 550km of existing operations plans and implement an extensive planned fuel breaks burn program on public land. In 2009-10, 703 burns ❚ Improvements to 113km of the fuel-break network were conducted as part of the DSE program, treating ❚ Slashing of grass and undergrowth at the an area of more than 146,000 hectares. Dandenong Ranges National Park, Warrandyte and Arthurs Seat state parks, Lysterfield Park, Langwarrin The fire operations plans for 2009-10 included a and the Pines flora and fauna reserves and other program of about 60,000 hectares of Parks Victoria small reserves on the Mornington Peninsula managed land to be treated by planned burning. This ❚ Installing information signs in metropolitan parks target was exceeded with just over 68,000 hectares ❚ Flora and fauna assessments treated (total of 226 individual burns). Parks Victoria ❚ Developing procedures for native vegetation managed land made up nearly 50 per cent of the area assessments treated by the planned burn program. ❚ Increasing community engagement through a media campaign, fact sheets and community meetings. 2009 Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission On 27 May 2010, the Royal Commission concluded 155 days of public hearings into the 2009 Victorian bushfires.

36 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 SIGNS OF RECOVERY AT KINGLAKE NATIONAL PARK

In the 18 months since bushfires swept across the Another welcome return is the song of the lyrebird, state in February 2009, there have been encouraging now heard throughout the park. Mr Maher said: signs of recovery. At Kinglake National Park, plants “They were quite remarkable survivors. I remember and animals are demonstrating remarkable resilience. seeing one down near Masons Falls a couple of weeks after the fire.” In a damp gully a few kilometres east of Mount Sugarloaf, two kilometres of the blackened bush was For the fire affected area of Kinglake, the most fenced off by park rangers just after the bushfire. important unburnt linking forests are around Over a year later, the area is showing new life. The Toolangi and south to St Andrews and swamp bush pea (Pultenaea weindorferi), a native Christmas Hills. plant listed as “vulnerable”, has sprouted in its thousands. To help more native animals return to the park, thousands of native trees and grasses have been “Once all this starts flowering, the birds will come planted at St Andrews. An 80-hectare former dairy in, the insects will feed off the nectar,” says Ranger farm was planted with 7,000 eucalypts and 11,000 Tony Fitzgerald. understorey species and then fenced to protect them from browsing animals. In January, rangers spotted the first koala since the bushfires. It was a healthy young male who had “For a lot of people the recovery of natural areas is made a long journey estimated to have been many very important in their own recovery,” Mr Fitzgerald kilometres from the nearest unburnt forest. said. “When the first trees started to sprout, the first “It was a welcome surprise to see this animal back in grasses started to flower and the first birds started to the burnt forest this soon after the fire,” said Ranger be heard in the forest again, there’s no doubt that for in Charge, Ion Maher. a lot of people that was very uplifting.”

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 37 SUPPORTING HEALTHY PARKS HEALTHY PEOPLE

Conservation Sites opened include: Volunteers ❚ Mount Sugarloaf, Mount Sugarloaf Road, Mount Australia’s Green Corps program Sugarloaf Ridge Track and the park entrance area – volunteers ❚ Frank Thomson Reserve where the carpark was re- undertaking fire established and a new gas barbecue installed recovery works. ❚ Some tracks in the Everard and Wombelano blocks.

In the Yarra Ranges National Park, the Summit Walk at Lake Mountain and access trails up to Mount St Leonards, Mount Monda and Dom Dom Saddle (the Bicentennial Trail) were reopened. Cambarville and key adjacent walking tracks also reopened, including the Big Tree and the Big Culvert walks.

Almost all of Bunyip State Park was reopened to the public. Toilets and visitors’ facilities were rebuilt at Nash Creek camping area. Dyers and Mortimer visitor sites were reopened along with the extensive trail bike and four-wheel-drive tracks network.

Preparing for emergencies Most of the Cathedral Range State Park reopened to Parks Victoria reviews emergency management plans the public in December 2009. The majority of walking annually so they remain current and effective. An tracks are open and trail markers, trailhead signs and emergency scenario is used to test the effectiveness of directional signs are progressively being replaced. the plans. In parks with large numbers of visitors, such New decking and railing were installed at Cooks Mill as Wilsons Promontory and Port Campbell national Heritage area. parks, Victoria Police is involved in the test emergency scenario. The bushfire recovery program has received invaluable support from volunteers and community groups. Search and rescue Conservation Volunteers Australia provided assistance Parks Victoria supported Victoria Police, the State to regions critically affected by the Black Saturday Emergency Services and other agencies in 11 search and bushfires. Green Corps programs were delivered at rescue operations in parks across the state over Wilsons Promontory National Park, Kinglake National the year. Park and Bunyip State Park. Volunteers repaired 40km of track, removed weeds from 21 hectares, planted Park recovery 7,900 trees and identified 269 orchids. Almost 100,000 hectares of parks and reserves managed by Parks Victoria were affected by the 2009 Black Saturday bushfires. With 309 significant assets damaged or destroyed, Parks Victoria implemented the first year of an extensive rebuilding program in 2009-10.

With nearly all of Kinglake National Park’s visitor facilities destroyed, a new master plan for the park is being developed. Rehabilitation work and assessment of fire damage continued throughout the year, and areas were progressively reopened.

38 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 COMMERCIAL OPERATIONS

Parks Victoria aims to improve its financial Commercial operations position and the services offered to visitors to The kiosk at the Twelve Apostles Visitor Centre near parks, through its commercial operations. Parks Port Campbell opened on 17 December 2009, offering a Victoria’s goal in this program area is to grow range of refreshments and personal convenience items quality, commercial services to support parks. on the site for the first time.

This section focuses on Parks Victoria’s External funding was secured to implement a new development of commercial services and commercial business system. Parks Victoria undertook products to generate additional revenue detailed planning and an expression of interest process and provide new services and experiences to during the year. The new system will include online park visitors. bookings, point of sale and commercial transactions.

Significant progress was made towards improving facilities and services at Tidal River. The Tidal River General Store was refurbished to create a contemporary retail environment – improving the quality of customer service and daily management operations. The refurbishment included the takeaway and supermarket sections, as well as implementing projects that have significantly reduced energy use. A strategic directions plan for Tidal River was released

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 39 SUPPORTING HEALTHY PARKS HEALTHY PEOPLE

in April 2010. The plan sets the direction for high quality, sustainable visitor experiences and services over the next five years.

Also at Wilsons Promontory, a targeted marketing campaign promoting the Wilderness Retreats was launched in October 2009. The campaign used the tagline ‘Discover Comfort in Undiscovered Places’ and contributed to annual growth in occupancy. WONTHAGGI’S MINING HISTORY PRESERVED

Parks Victoria celebrated the centenary of the Commercial projects Wonthaggi State Coal Mine and the official Following the launch of Victoria’s Nature-Based reopening of the mine for public underground Tourism Strategy, extensive planning and consultation tours with the community in March. was undertaken to develop tree-based eco-adventure facilities at selected sites across the state. An expression Occupational health and safety concerns closed of interest process resulted in strong investor attention, the mine in 2000, but after an investment of with preferred proponents selected to proceed to $3 million in State and Federal government detailed planning. funding, the mine is now safe again for visitors. Works to reopen the Mount Buffalo Chalet progressed Parks Victoria’s mine manager, Braxton with an open market request for tender process Laine, said the mine is of significant cultural conducted to secure the lease, operation and value. “Without the mine there would be no redevelopment of the site. Wonthaggi. It has a huge social history. When you take visitors down and they see that the Leases and licences miners crawled into rabbit holes with their A total of 73 agreements including leases, licences and picks and shovels, they say they can’t imagine section 27 consents under the National Parks Act 1975 working in such conditions. But it was a way of were finalised in 2009-10, with ongoing management life, how you earned money.” support provided for more than 450 lease and licence agreements across the state. The work of volunteers and the support of the community were essential to the project. Over After four years of negotiations, the lease for the $50,000 in skilled labour was donated over redevelopment of the Yarra Bend Golf Course was the years with local plumbers, electricians and signed. The lease will see the investment of $3 million other tradespeople offering their services to in a golf driving range and the construction of new the project. In the past year alone, volunteers retail and café facilities. In addition, the consortium will contributed more than 713 hours of their time assume full responsibility for golf course maintenance. to the cause. The mine is also important in Parks Victoria successfully facilitated transfer of the attracting visitors to Wonthaggi, supporting the Werribee Mansion hotel lease to new operators. The regional economy. Construction has begun on Lancemore Group, one of Victoria’s leading boutique the mine’s new visitor information centre that hotel and conference operators, is now managing the is scheduled to open in November 2010. The operation of the hotel. centre will tell the story of the town’s mining history and will include a theatre, conference Parks Victoria worked with Sport and Recreation area, education room, café and retail store. It Victoria in the development of a new $50 million State will encourage visitors to stay longer. Athletics Centre at Albert Park. Parks Victoria played a key role in ensuring appropriate leases and licences were in place for the redevelopment.

40 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 RESPONSIBLY MANAGING OUR RESOURCES

Parks Victoria has sound systems and processes New Finance and People System in place to support the delivery of its services Parks Victoria completed a two-year project to and strengthen its operations. There are many implement a new finance, budgeting and human staff who work behind the scenes to keep resource system during the year. The system includes Parks Victoria running – from finance to human a learning and development module, employee resources, corporate governance to information and manager self-service and electronic payment systems. This section focuses on the staff and functionality. The new system provides a basis for the framework that supports delivery of Parks improved business analysis, planning, compliance Victoria’s core activities. Parks Victoria’s goal and reporting and will support the new commercial in this program area is to operate an efficient, business system and other systems into the future. effective and sustainable parks service. The implementation of the new system was a major change for the organisation.

Merit and equity Parks Victoria is committed to maintaining a workplace free of harassment, discrimination and bullying. These principles are documented in the Victorian Government’s merit and equity standards and embodied in the Public Administration Act 2004. Parks Victoria communicates and adheres to the principles set out in the Act.

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 41 SUPPORTING HEALTHY PARKS HEALTHY PEOPLE

As an employer, Parks Victoria ensures that: Occupational health and safety ❚ Its decisions are based on merit Parks Victoria is committed to maintaining a workplace ❚ Its staff are treated fairly and reasonably that is safe, minimises risk to health and promotes ❚ Equal employment opportunity is provided wellbeing. We aim to establish an environment that ❚ There are reasonable avenues of redress against provides the highest standards of health and safety for unfair or unreasonable treatment. employees, contractors, volunteers and the public. Parks Victoria’s priority activities for occupational All Parks Victoria staff are required to abide by health and safety are set out in its Occupational Health the public sector code of conduct, which requires and Safety Strategy 2007 – 2010. This first strategy has staff to: now been implemented and development of a new ❚ Act with impartiality framework to guide activities for the next three years ❚ Display integrity and avoid conflicts of interest has commenced. ❚ Show accountability for their actions ❚ Provide responsive service. Achievements in 2009-10 included: ❚ An asbestos audit of all Parks Victoria’s work centres Equal opportunity completed — removal works based on the findings of Parks Victoria is finalising its next Equal Opportunity the audit commenced Management Plan (2010 – 2013). This plan will continue ❚ Roll-out of an online chemical management system to improve equity in employment, access to programs that gives staff easy access to current information and services and raise awareness of equity and diversity and allows them to maintain a manifest of chemicals within the organisation. on-site ❚ Inclusion of occupational health and safety module Disability Action Plan in Parks Victoria’s e-learning program that provides Consistent with Section 38 of the Disability Act 2006, information to new staff as part of their induction Parks Victoria prepared a Disability Action Plan that program and allows existing staff to refresh their helps Parks Victoria plan for, and implement changes knowledge to, practices, services and infrastructure so that they ❚ 247 of Parks Victoria’s managers and supervisors are more inclusive and accessible for people with completed safety leadership training disabilities. ❚ An OHS Representatives Training Forum for 60 staff elected as Health and Safety Representatives under Parks Victoria will continue to ensure it recruits staff on the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 merit and reduces barriers to people with a disability ❚ Introduction of a statewide influenza vaccination obtaining and maintaining employment. All Parks program Victoria staff will be required to complete a new Equity ❚ Development of a Critical Incident Emergency and Diversity e-Learning course that aims to increase Response Plan. disability awareness.

Parks Victoria has been, and will continue to be, a partner with multiple disability agencies to ensure progress across education and inclusive disability programs exists.

42 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 Workforce data

Ongoing Employees Fixed Term & Casual Employees Full Time Part Time Employee Employee Employee (Headcount) (Headcount) (Headcount) FTE FTE June 2010 1081 945 136 1026.6 70.4 June 2009 1011 855 156 936.9 33.0

June 2009 June 2010 Fixed Term Fixed Term & Casual & Casual Ongoing Employees Employees Ongoing Employees Employees Employee Employee (Headcount) FTE FTE (Headcount) FTE FTE Gender Male 684 672.5 12.8 737 731.9 42.8 Female 327 264.4 20.2 344 294.7 27.6 Age Under 25 10 9.5 4.4 20 20 4.4 25 – 34 165 149.7 9.8 180 172.4 28.5 35 – 44 282 248.3 8.2 313 286.3 22.5 45 – 54 306 295.5 5.9 320 310.1 11.0 55 – 64 231 220.0 4.5 229 221.7 4.0 Over 64 17 13.9 0.2 19 16 0.0 Classification Grade 1 7 2.7 1.7 2 1.4 0.0 Grade 2.1 155 135.3 10.5 55 52.9 25.1 Grade 2.2 106 99.8 1.0 213 195.9 4.9 Grade 2.3 165 155.3 2.3 145 137.3 2.0 Grade 3 81 78.0 1.9 133 130.3 7.8 Grade 4 129 119.1 3.0 162 156.4 8.0 Grade 5 93 81.3 3.6 102 91.6 6.8 Grade 6 123 117.0 4.0 122 117.4 6.8 Grade 7 54 52.6 3.0 51 50.2 5.0 Grade 8 81 78.8 2.0 78 75.9 3.0 Executives 17 17.0 0.0 18 17.4 1.0

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 43 SUPPORTING HEALTHY PARKS HEALTHY PEOPLE

Staff Health and Wellbeing GOVERNANCE AND COMPLIANCE Parks Victoria undertakes a health and wellbeing Legislative framework program to: Under the Parks Victoria Act 1998, Parks Victoria’s ❚ Provide staff, and in some cases immediate family responsibilities are to provide services to the State and members, with access to health and wellbeing its agencies for the management of parks, reserves information and a range of support programs in the and other land under the control of the State together short, medium and long term with waterways land (within the meaning of the Water ❚ Monitor staff health and wellbeing Industry Act 1994) for the purposes of conservation, ❚ Support staff during and following critical incidents recreation, leisure, tourism or water transport. Parks ❚ Enable the healthy recovery of staff. Victoria’s responsibilities also extend to piers and jetties and recreational boating in Port Phillip and Western Support has continued for staff and immediate Port as a port manager under the Port Services Act 1995 family members after the February 2009 fires, with and as waterways manager under the Marine Act 1988. the voluntary use of external critical incident stress- With the approval of the Minister, it may also provide management counsellors, the Parks Victoria Employee services to the owner of any other land used for public Assistance Program and 31 internal trained peer purposes for the management of that land. The Act supporters. Support has also continued for staff requires that Parks Victoria must not act in a way that is involved in giving evidence or preparing to give not environmentally sound in carrying out its functions. evidence in the Royal Commission hearings. Parks Victoria continued to participate in the Networked Parks Victoria is appointed as a committee of Emergency Organisation Health and Fire and management of various reserves pursuant to the Crown Emergency – Health & Wellbeing Committee. Parks Land (Reserves) Act 1978. Currently, Parks Victoria is Victoria is working with beyondblue to deliver tailored the committee of management for a range of reserves programs to staff and their families in fire-affected including Albert Park, Werribee Park, Yarra Bend, areas with the aim to increase awareness of health several gardens in the Dandenong Ranges and piers issues after traumatic events. and jetties in Port Phillip and Western Port.

Learning and development Parks Victoria is responsible for managing: Rangers and field staff are trained in a wide variety ❚ All areas under the National Parks Act 1975 – of skills including operating four-wheel-drive vehicles, approximately 3.3 million hectares plant and equipment through to the enforcement of ❚ Reserved and unreserved Crown land including legislation. Health and safety training continues to conservation and other reserves, metropolitan parks, be at the forefront of the training program as does regional parks and historic areas fire training. ❚ Recreational and other activities on waterways land in the metropolitan area as defined in the Water This year, Parks Victoria introduced e-learning through Industry Act 1994 the new Finance and People System to provide a wider ❚ Piers and jetties in Port Phillip and Western Port range of training to all staff. and recreational boating on these bays pursuant to powers conferred on it as a port manager under the Leadership development remains a priority for Parks Port Services Act 1995 and Marine Act 1988 Victoria. This year, leadership training was provided to ❚ A number of other areas under leases or other the senior executives as well as to emerging leaders, arrangements (including reservoir parks). and newly appointed supervisors. A Senior Women’s Forum supported women in leadership roles. The Parks Victoria’s relationships and responsibilities for forum is designed to provide support, mentoring and the provision of services to the state are set out in a leadership opportunities to women in the organisation. Management Services Agreement (MSA) between Parks Victoria, the Secretary to DSE and the Minister for Environment and Climate Change.

44 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 Parks Victoria’s services are delivered within State Of the 40 requests: policy and contractual agreements, and in accordance ❚ 0 were transferred to other agencies for processing with statutory responsibilities. The MSA sets out ❚ 32 were decided by Parks Victoria the principles for the delivery of park management ❚ 1 did not meet the requirement under the Act and services, lists the land to be managed and sets out the was refused key functions of Parks Victoria and DSE. ❚ 6 are yet to be finalised ❚ 1 was withdrawn or lapsed. The current MSA includes a commitment to engage strategically and work in partnership. DSE is the Freedom of Information requests are made in writing designated lead for fire and road issues and Parks describing the documents requested and including the Victoria for tourism and recreation issues across tenure. payment of the $23.40 application fee. Application forms and information about how to make a Parks Victoria participated in a number of regulation request can be found on Parks Victoria’s website – and amendment projects that were completed or www.parkweb.vic.gov.au Requests should be sent to progressed within the financial year including: the Freedom of Information Officer, Parks Victoria, ❚ The proposed Crown Land (Reserves) (Regional Park) Level 10, 535 Bourke Street, Melbourne 3000. Regulations ❚ The proposed remaking of the Conservation, Forests Whistleblowers protection and Lands (Anglesea Heath) Regulations The Whistleblowers Protection Act 2001 came into effect ❚ Amendment to provide for free entry to national on 1 January 2002. It is designed to protect people who parks in the National Parks (Fees and Charges) disclose information about serious wrongdoing within Regulations the Victorian Public Sector and to provide a framework ❚ The making of the Forests (Recreation) Regulations for the investigation of these matters. and the Crown Land (Reserves) (Ex-HMAS Canberra Dive Site) Regulations. Parks Victoria does not tolerate improper conduct by employees, or the taking of reprisals against those who Changes to areas managed come forward to disclose such conduct. Parks Victoria Under the Management Services Agreement, the has established a Whistleblowers Protection procedure Minister advises Parks Victoria of any changes to the to manage disclosures. Disclosures may also be made land managed by Parks Victoria. In January 2010, Parks directly to the Ombudsman. Since the commencement Victoria was advised of a net addition of 3,801 hectares of the Act in January 2002, two disclosures have been to the area managed, including the new 38 hectare received by Parks Victoria. Mullum Mullum Park and the 90.5 hectare Frankston Natural Features Reserve. Parks Victoria was also Disclosures for the period of 1 July 2009 notified during the year of the transfer of management to 30 June 2010 responsibilities from DSE for the land not already ❚ Number and type of disclosures made to Parks managed by Parks Victoria that was to form part of the Victoria – one public interest disclosure new River Red Gum park areas created on 29 June 2010. ❚ Number and type of disclosures referred to the These changes bring the total area of land managed by Ombudsman for public interest determination – Parks Victoria to more than 4.04 million hectares. one public interest disclosure ❚ Number and type of disclosed matters referred to Freedom of Information Parks Victoria from the Ombudsman – one public The Freedom of Information Act 1982 allows the interest disclosure to be investigated public the right of access to information contained ❚ Number and type of disclosed matters referred to the in documents held by Parks Victoria. In the reporting Ombudsman for investigation – none period, Parks Victoria received 40 requests for ❚ Number and type of investigations of disclosed documents and information under the Act. matters taken over by the Ombudsman – none

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 45 SUPPORTING HEALTHY PARKS HEALTHY PEOPLE

❚ Number of requests made to the Ombudsman to Victorian industry participation policy investigate matters – none The Victorian Industry Participation Policy Act 2003 ❚ Number and type of disclosed matters Parks Victoria requires public bodies and Departments report on has declined to investigate – none. the implementation of the Victorian Industry Participation Policy (VIPP). Departments and public The contact details for the Protected Disclosure bodies are required to apply VIPP in all tenders over Coordinator and Ombudsman are: $3 million in metropolitan Melbourne and $1 million in regional Victoria. Protected Disclosure Coordinator Chief Legal Counsel Parks Victoria commenced one project relating to the Parks Victoria Level 10, 535 Bourke Street, VIPP during the reporting period. A new works depot Melbourne 3000 commenced at Tidal River in Wilsons Promontory Telephone 13 1963 National Park. The project is costed at $2.8 million and is scheduled for completion by 31 August 2010. The Ombudsman Victoria Level 9, 459 Collins Street (North Tower), National Competition Policy Melbourne VIC 3000 Under National Competition Policy, the guiding Telephone 96136222 or toll free 1800 806 314. legislative principle is that legislation, including future legislative proposals, should not restrict competition A copy of Parks Victoria’s Whistleblower Protection unless it can be demonstrated that: Procedures can be obtained by contacting Parks ❚ the benefits of the restriction to the community as a Victoria on 13 1963. whole outweigh the costs ❚ the objectives of the legislation can only be achieved Building Act by restricting competition. All new works are managed in accordance with the Building Act 1993 and existing buildings are assessed Parks Victoria continues to comply with the in accordance with Parks Victoria’s asset management requirements of the National Competition Policy. system to ensure they are compliant with the Act. Consultancy engagement in excess of $100,000 Community Inclusiveness There were no consultancy engagements in excess The Victorian Government is committed to providing of $100,000. services in a way that supports and strengthens local communities. Parks Victoria aims to ensure its activities Consultancy engagement less than $100,000 and operations reflect the diversity of Victoria. Details There were six consultancies engaged during the of Parks Victoria’s programs and activities that focus reporting period that were less than $100,000 each. on engaging culturally and linguistically diverse Total cost of these six consultancies was $333,910. communities in the park environment are outlined in the Visitor Experience section of this report. Parks Major Contracts Victoria’s work with young Victorians, through its Parks Victoria did not enter into any contracts greater education and Junior Ranger program, are also detailed than $10 million in value during the reporting period. in the Visitor Experience section. Some of Parks Victoria’s activities focusing on women are outlined under the Responsibly Managing our Resources section. Parks Victoria’s work with Indigenous groups is outlined in the Cultural Heritage section.

46 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 CORPORATE PERFORMANCE

2005- 2006- 2007- 2008- 2009- Result against target Indicator 06 07 08 09 10 Missed Met Exceeded Area treated in parks to eradicate Target 780 700 500 1,000 900 or control pest plants and animals ✔ Actual 1,126 928 1,003 995 1176 (ha 000s) National Park Act parks schedules 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 4, 7 & 8 with approved Target 50 nm*nmnmnm ✔ management plans less than 15 years old Actual 85 (per cent) Victorians who have visited a Parks Target 71 – 76 75 - 80 75 – 78 75 – 78 75-80 Victoria managed park over the past 12 ✔ Actual 79 n/a** 76.1 n/a 78 months (per cent) (Biennial measure) Parks Victoria personnel required to Target 625 850 850 850 850 assist in wildfire preparedness and ✔ Actual 648 850 850 844 850 suppression (number) Proportion of Indigenous staff Target 5 6 7 7 7-9 ✔ (%) Actual 5 6 6 5.5 7.2 Incident Rate (OHS Incidents/staff) Target 16 16 16 16 16 ✔ (per cent) Actual 9 15 14.5 15 15.4 Percentage of bay assets with greater Target 80 – 85 80 – 85 80 – 85 70-75 70-75 ✔ than five years life expectancy (per cent) Actual 82 78 79 74 76 Compliance with Model of Cover Target 100 100 100 100 100 ✔ requirements (%) Actual 100 100 100 100 100

*nm=new measure **n/a=not measured

Major changes or factors affecting performance Subsequent events This year’s planned burn program was the organisation’s There have been no subsequent events after the highest priority. Resources were allocated to the reporting period that have caused a significant change program from other non-critical activities. In most cases, in Parks Victoria’s financial position or organisational non-critical activities were reduced but not stopped. performance. However, Parks Victoria anticipates Targets for the program were exceeded. Parks Victoria there may be change following the release of the 2009 has an investment prioritisation framework to assesses Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission findings. This activities against risk and minimise the impact of report (released 31 July) is expected to influence the reduced service delivery. future of the organisation and cause substantial impact to operations. Early estimates suggest staff numbers, The Royal Commission was a substantial time fire commitment and approach to fire and emergency commitment for a number of staff, taking priority over management will require review and updating from other projects. These projects continued in a reduced August 2010. capacity, resulting in delays.

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 47 SUPPORTING HEALTHY PARKS HEALTHY PEOPLE

ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE

Electricity consumption Statewide metered water in kilowatt hours per FTE in ‘000 litres per FTE

,000

4300 300

4200 250

4100 200

4000

150 3900

100 3800

50 3700

3600 0 07/08 08/09 09/10 07/08 08/09 09/10

Parks Victoria continued to participate in the Parks Victoria’s sustainability achievements Government’s Resource Smart program. Resource in 2009-10 include: Smart provides an environmental management system, ❚ Reducing paper forms following the introduction of establishing targets and actions to reduce energy and the new Finance and People system. The new system water consumption and landfill. also allows for more accurate reporting of water consumption and greenhouse gas emissions Overall electricity consumption increased by 5 per ❚ A 20 to 25 per cent reduction in water usage cent on the previous year. However, consumption per at Tidal River following the introduction of a fulltime employee fell by 7 per cent. The increase can, water-conservation plan. in part, be attributed to the addition of a new work ❚ Improving the energy efficiency of the Tidal River centre at Point Nepean Quarantine Station and the new store, reducing the demand for off-grid power commercial facility at the 12 Apostles. and introducing biodegradable and recyclable food packaging. Overall water consumption decreased by 21 per cent and consumption per full time employee decreased by 30 per cent. The downward trend can be attributed, in part, to water saving initiatives such as stormwater diversion at Albert Park and the installation of water tanks at various sites.

48 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE

Five year financial summary ($ thousand)

2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 Revenue from Government 92,089 83,067 66,920 65,389 61,940 Total income from transactions 199,551 184,535 166,964 158,863 148,785 Total expenses from transactions 204,476 184,807 170,134 162,892 176,371* Net result from transactions (4,925) (273) (2,923) (4,029) (3,034) Net result for the period (7,726) (1,452) (3,170) (4,029) (27,586) Net cash flow from operating activities 35,859 17,926 31,677 (1,678) 9,620 Total assets 1,569,068 1,283,020 1,265,084 1,020,278 948,770 Total liabilities 128,066 87,494 72,844 49,020 43,702 * Includes Rosebud foreshore assets of $24.6M transferred to the Mornington Peninsula Shire.

Overview Both revenue and expenses from transactions have Cost pressures such as labour, fuel, electricity, water been increasing at a steady rate for the last five years. and insurance have continued to increase. This year, revenue reached $200 million for the first time. An increasing proportion of this revenue is for Parks Victoria continues to record small deficit results tied initiatives delivered across a number of years from transactions between zero and $5 million. As such as major capital works and fire prevention and a government agency, Parks Victoria seeks to spend recovery programs. In 2009-10, Parks Victoria recorded its full revenue. The final result reflects depreciation a net result from transactions deficit of $4.9 million on assets. Parks Victoria relies on cyclical government compared to a deficit of $0.3 million in 2008-09, initiative funding for maintenance and replacement reflecting largely depreciation expenses. of assets.

Total assets grew to $1,569 million and this was due to Financial position – balance sheet a significant transfer of assets and liabilities for a net Total assets have increased by $286 million to $1,569 $242 million for the Yarra Bend Park. million. Parks Victoria was appointed as committee of management for the Yarra Bend Park during the year, Parks Victoria has significant cash and investment and all the assets and liabilities transferred across to balances of $96.5 million. However, these funds are Parks Victoria at a net $242 million. committed to specific initiatives and assets programs. While Parks Victoria shows $1.6 billion of assets in its Financial performance and business review financial accounts, this only reflects assets that are on Revenue from transactions increased by $15 million land where Parks Victoria is appointed committee of on last year and the five year average growth is 7 per management by government. This represents only a cent per annum. This growth in revenue is mainly from small proportion of public land and associated assets initiative funding, which comes from many sources that Parks Victoria manages. More than $2.5 billion in including federal and state government and catchment assets are recorded in DSE’s financial accounts that are management authorities. This initiative funding managed by Parks Victoria including national parks, is tied to specific programs or projects. Recurrent, state parks and conservation reserves. discretionary funding for core services has been under pressure for a number of years.

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 49 SUPPORTING HEALTHY PARKS HEALTHY PEOPLE

Cash flows Net cash flows from operating activities show significant surplus funds. However, almost all of this pertains to government initiatives and asset funding received by Parks Victoria for works which have not yet been fully completed. These are typically complex, multiyear projects which require significant planning and approval processes. These are shown in the 2009-10 Cash Flow Statement and categorised as ‘committed cash and investments’ that relate to these initiatives and assets programs and total $97.5 million. The net cash position after commitments is a deficit of $1.0 million. This is consistent with levels over the last three years that varied between a small cash surplus of $1.1 million to $5.3 million.

50 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 FINANCIAL REPORT

COMPREHENSIVE OPERATING STATEMENT 52

BALANCE SHEET 53

STATEMENT OF CHANGE OF EQUITY 54

CASH FLOW STATEMENT 55

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 58 – 95

STATUTORY CERTIFICATE 96

RISK MANAGEMENT ATTESTATION 97

AUDITOR'S REPORT 98 – 99

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 51 FINANCIAL REPORT

COMPREHENSIVE OPERATING STATEMENT For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

2010 2009 Notes $’000 $’000 Continuing Operations Income from Transactions Parks and Reserves Trust Funding 3 72,428 68,167 Government Funding 4 92,089 83,067 Interest 5 5,193 5,081 Fair Value of Assets Received Free of Charge 6 70 132 Other Income 7 29,771 28,087 Total Income from Transactions 199,551 184,535 Expenses from Transactions Employee Benefits 8 82,615 81,020 Depreciation and amortisation 9 5,815 5,294 Finance Costs 10 – 67 Contracts and External Services 11 84,048 71,365 Other Operating Expenses 12 31,998 27,061 Total Expenses from Transactions 204,476 184,807 Net Result from Transactions (Net operating balance) (4,925) (273) Other Economic Flows Included in Net Result Net Gain/(loss) on Non-financial Assets 13( a ) (11) (75) Net Gain/(loss) on Financial Instruments 13( b ) (305) 145 Other gains/(losses) from other economic flows 13( c ) (2,485) (1,249) Total Other Economic Flows included in Net Result (2,801) (1,179) Net Result (7,726) (1,452) Other Economic Flows – Other Non-owner Changes in Equity Changes in physical asset revaluation surplus 24 – – Total Other Economic Flows – Other Non-owner Changes in Equity – – Comprehensive Result – total change in net worth (7,726) (1,452)

The comprehensive operating statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

52 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 BALANCE SHEET As at 30 June 2010

2010 2009 1 July 2008* Notes $’000 $’000 $’000 Assets

Financial assets Cash and deposits 14 36,543 48,593 52,357 Receivables 15 9,615 6,763 6,121 Other financial assets 16 60,000 20,000 – Total financial assets 106,158 75,356 58,478

Non–financial assets Inventories 17 138 142 114 Property, plant and equipment 18 1,455,646 1,207,343 1,205,394 Intangible assets 19 7,046 – – Other non–financial assets 20 80 179 156 Total non–financial assets 1,462,910 1,207,664 1,205,664

Total assets 1,569,068 1,283,020 1,264,142

Liabilities Payables 21 21,094 19,255 15,755 Provisions 22 29,944 27,168 24,026 Deferred revenue 23 77,028 41,071 33,063 Total liabilities 128,066 87,494 72,844

Net assets 1,441,002 1,195,526 1,191,298

Equity Accumulated surplus/(deficit) (48,483) (40,757) (39,304) Physical asset revaluation surplus 24 901,818 901,818 901,818 Contributed capital 25 587,667 334,465 328,784 Total equity 1,441,002 1,195,526 1,191,298

Contingent liabilities and contingent assets 27 Commitments for expenditure 28

The balance sheet should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

* See note 2.5 for details regarding the change in accounting policy.

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 53 FINANCIAL REPORT

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

Changes due to

Total Transactions with Equity at 1 comprehensive owners in their Equity at July 2009 result capacity as owners 30 June 2010 2010 Notes $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000

Accumulated surplus/(deficit) (40,757) (7,726) – (48,483) (40,757) (7,726) – (48,483)

Contributions by owners 334,465 – – 334,465 Contributions from the Department of Sustainability and Environment 25 – 253,202 253,202 334,465 – 253,202 587,667

Physical asset revaluation surplus 24 901,818 – – 901,818 901,818 – – 901,818 Total equity at end of the financial year 2010 1,195,526 (7,726) 253,202 1,441,002

Changes due to

Total Transactions with Equity at 1 comprehensive owners in their Equity at 30 July 2008 result capacity as owners June 2009 2009 Notes $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000

Accumulated Surplus/(Deficit) (38,362) (1,462) – (39,824) Adjusted on change in accounting policy (942) 10 – (932) (39,304) (1,452) – (40,757)

Contributions by Owners 328,784 –– 328,784 Contributions from the Department of 25 – – 5,681 5,681 Sustainability and Environment 328,784 – 5,681 334,465

Physical asset revaluation surplus 24 901,818 – – 901,818 901,818 – – 901,818 Total equity at end of the financial year 2009 1,191,298 (1,452) 5,681 1,195,526

The statement of changes in equity should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

54 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 CASH FLOW STATEMENT For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

2010 2009 Notes $’000 $’000 Cash Flows from Operating Activities Receipts Receipts from Parks Charge 77,660 66,131 Receipts from Government for Operations 110,288 88,637 Receipts from Customers / Other Sources 40,710 31,351 Interest received 5,076 5,106 Receipts relating to Goods and Services Tax 16,922 14,560 Total receipts 250,656 205,785 Payments Payments to Suppliers and Employees (189,670) (165,662) Payments to Government for Revenue Collected from National Parks (6,618) (5,818) Payments to Parks Victoria Grants Program (1,273) (1,807) Payments relating to Goods and Services Tax (17,236) (14,572) Total payments (214,797) (187,859) Net Cash Flows from/(used in) Operating Activities 26( c ) 35,859 17,926

Cash Flows from Investing Activities Payments for non-financial assets (19,509) (7,319) Proceeds on sale of property, plant and equipment – 45 Payments for other financial assets (60,000) (20,000) Proceeds from other financial assets 20,000 – Net Cash Flows from/(used in) Investing Activities (59,509) (27,274)

Cash Flows from Financing Activities Receipts from Government – Contributed Capital 11,600 5,584 Net Cash Flows from/(used in) Financing Activities 11,600 5,584 Net Increase / (Decrease) in cash and cash equivalents (12,050) (3,764)

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of financial year 48,593 52,357 Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the financial year 14 36,543 48,593

Consisting of: Committed cash 34 37,578 43,311 Non–committed cash (1,035) 5,282 36,543 48,593 Committed Investments 34 60,000 20,000

The above cash flow statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 55 FINANCIAL REPORT

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Note 1 Background Note 1.1 Reporting entity Note 1.2 Objectives and Funding Note 2 Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Note 2.1 General Note 2.2 Basis of accounting preparation and measurement Note 2.3 Asset recognition and measurement Note 2.4 Scope and presentation of financial statements Note 2.5 Changes in Accounting policy Note 2.6 Financial Assets Note 2.7 Non-Financial assets Note 2.8 Impairment of Non-Financial Assets Note 2.9 Leased assets Note 2.10 Liabilities Note 2.11 Provision for Dismantling Note 2.12 Contributed Capital Note 2.13 Income Recognition Note 2.14 Grants and Other Payments Note 2.15 Resources provided and received free of charge for Nominal Consideration Note 2.16 Interest income Note 2.17 Depreciation and Amortisation Note 2.18 Finance Costs Note 2.19 Commitments Note 2.20 Contingent assets and contingent liabilities Note 2.21 Goods and Services tax Note 2.22 Rounding of Amounts Note 2.23 New Accounting Standards and Interpretations Note 3 Parks and Reserve Trust Funding Note 4 Government Funding Note 5 Interest Note 6 Fair Value of Assets Received Free of Charge Note 7 Other Income Note 8 Employee Benefits Note 9 Depreciation and Amortisation Note 10 Finance Costs Note 11 Contracts and External Services Note 12 Other Operating Expenses Note 13 Other Economic Flows included in Net Results

56 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 Note 14 Cash and deposits Note 15 Receivables Note 16 Other Financial Assets Note 17 Inventories Note 18 Property, Plant and Equipment Note 19 Intangible Assets Note 20 Other Non-Financial Assets Note 21 Payables Note 22 Provisions Note 23 Deferred Revenue Note 24 Physical Asset revaluations surplus Note 25 Contributed Capital Note 26 Cash Flow Information Note 27 Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets Note 28 Commitments Note 29 Superannuation Note 30 Volunteer Resources provided free of charge Note 31 Auditor’s Remuneration Note 32 Related parties Note 33 Financial Instruments Note 34 Committed Funds Note 35 Post Balance Date Events

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 57 FINANCIAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

1 Background

1.1 Reporting Entity

The financial statements cover Parks Victoria as an individual reporting entity. Parks Victoria was formed as a public authority on 3 July 1998 under the Parks Victoria Act 1998. The Parks Victoria Act 1998 was given Royal Assent on 26 May 1998 and was proclaimed on 3 July 1998. The principal address is: Level 10/ 535 Bourke Street Melbourne VIC 3000

1.2 Objectives and Funding

The objective of Parks Victoria is to provide an outstanding park and waterway system, protected and enhanced, for people, forever.

Parks Victoria receives the majority of its funding from the Victorian Government for the management of Victoria’s National/State Parks and Reserves and from the Parks and Reserves Trust for the management of metropolitan parks and waterways. The Trust is funded by a Parks charge levied on properties within the Melbourne metropolitan area.

2 Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

2.1 General

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Financial Management Act 1994 and applicable Australian Accounting Standards, including Interpretations (AASs). AASs include Australian equivalent to International Financial Reporting Standards.

Statement of Compliance

The financial statements comply with the relevant Financial Reporting Directions (FRDs) issued by the Department of Treasury and Finance, and relevant Standing Directions (SD) authorised by the Minister for Finance.

Under Australian Accounting Standards (AASs), there are requirements that apply specifically to not- for-profit entities. Parks Victoria has analysed its purpose, objectives, and operating philosophy and determined that it does not have profit generation as a prime objective. Where applicable, the AASs that relates to-not-for-profit entities has been applied.

The financial statements were authorised for issue by S Mahony (Chief Financial Officer – Parks Victoria) on 20 August 2010.

58 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

2.2 Basis of accounting preparation and measurement

The accrual basis of accounting has been applied in the preparation of these financial statements whereby assets, liabilities, equity, income and expenses are recognised in the reporting period to which they relate, regardless of when cash is received or paid.

These financial statements are presented in Australian dollars, the functional and presentation currency of Parks Victoria.

In the application of AASs management is required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience and various other factors that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstance, the results of which form the basis of making the judgements. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate is revised if the revision affects only that period or in the period of the revision and future periods if the revision affects both current and future periods.

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the historical cost convention except for:

❚ non-current physical assets which, subsequent to acquisition, are measured at a re-valued amount being their fair value at the date of the revaluation less any subsequent accumulated depreciation and subsequent impairment losses. Revaluations are made with sufficient regularity to ensure that the carrying amounts do not materially differ from their fair value; ❚ the fair value of an asset other than land is generally based on its depreciated replacement value; ❚ available-for-sale investments which are measured at fair value with movements reflected in equity until the asset is derecognised

Historical cost is based on the fair values of the consideration given in exchange for assets.

Accounting policies are selected and applied in a manner which ensures that the resulting financial information satisfies the concepts of relevance and reliability, thereby ensuring that the substance of the underlying transactions or other events is reported.

The accounting policies set out below have been applied in preparing the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2010 and the comparative information presented for the year ended 30 June 2009.

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 59 FINANCIAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

2.3 Asset recognition and measurement

Parks Victoria only recognises assets on land it controls as the committee of management. Parks Victoria also manages other assets on behalf of the Crown. Those assets and any new assets constructed by Parks Victoria on behalf of the Crown are recognised in the asset register of the Department of Sustainability and Environment.

2.4 Scope and presentation of financial statements

Comprehensive operating statement

Income and expenses in the comprehensive operating statement are classified according to whether or not they arise from ‘transactions’ or ‘other economic flows’. This classification is consistent with the whole of government reporting format and is allowed under AASB 101 Presentation of financial statements.

‘Transactions’ are those economic flows that are considered to arise as a result of policy decisions, usually interactions between two entities by mutual agreement. Transactions also include flows within an entity, such as depreciation where the owner is simultaneously acting as the owner of the depreciating asset and as the consumer of the service provided by the asset. Transactions can be in kind (e.g. assets provided/ given free of charge or for nominal consideration) or where the final consideration is cash.

‘Other economic flows’ are changes arising from market re-measurements. They include gains and losses from disposals, revaluations and impairments of non-current physical assets and intangible assets; fair value changes of financial instruments and revaluation of certain employee benefit liabilities.

The net result is equivalent to profit or loss derived in accordance with AASs.

Balance sheet

Assets and liabilities are presented in liquidity order with assets aggregated into financial assets and non- financial assets.

Current and non-current assets and liabilities (those expected to be recovered or settled beyond 12 months) are disclosed in the notes, where relevant.

Statement of changes in equity

The statement of changes in equity presents reconciliations of each non-owner and owner equity opening balance at the beginning of the reporting period to the closing balance at the end of the reporting period. It also shows separately changes due to amounts recognised in the comprehensive result and amounts recognised in other comprehensive income related to other non-owner changes in equity.

Cash flow statement

Cash flows are classified according to whether or not they arise from operating activities, investing activities or financing activities. This classification is consistent with requirements under AASB 107 Statement of cash flows.

60 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

2.5 Changes in Accounting policy

During the financial year ended 30 June 2010 Parks Victoria changed its Capital Asset Policy, increasing the capitalisation threshold for recognising plant and equipment. Accordingly plant and equipment with a cost exceeding $5,000 are recognised as an asset at cost (previous threshold: $1,200). In management’s opinion the new capitalisation threshold results in the financial report providing reliable and more relevant information regarding the Parks Victoria’s financial position and financial performance. This change aligns with the Department of Sustainability and Environment’s capitalisation threshold accounting policy.

In accordance with AASB 108 Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors, Parks Victora has retrospectively applied the new capitalisation threshold in the previous financial year which resulted in a decrease of $942,000 in the Net assets and total equity as at 1 July 2008 (beginning of the comparative period 2008/09); and a decrease of $932,000 in the previously reported Net assets and total equity as at 30 June 2009. This change also resulted in an increase of the Net results from transactions for the financial year ended 30 June 2009 of $10,000.

The following adjustments were made to the Balance Sheet as at 1 July 2008 and 30 June 2009:

Increase / 1 July 2008 30 June 2008 (decrease) (restated) $’000 $’000 $’000 Balance sheet (extract) Plant and equipment 2,939 (942) 1,997 Net assets 1,192,240 (942) 1,191,298

Accumulated surplus/(deficit) (38,362) (942) (39,304) Total equity 1,192,240 (942) 1,191,298

Increase / 30 June 2009 30 June 2009 (decrease) (restated) $’000 $’000 $’000 Balance sheet (extract) Plant and equipment 2,796 (932) 1,864 Net assets 1,196,458 (932) 1,195,526

Accumulated surplus/(deficit) – balance brought forward (38,362) (942) (39,304) – current period (1,462) 10 (1,452) (39,824) (932) (40,756) Total equity 1,196,458 (932) 1,195,526

Items on the Balance Sheet other than those mentioned above were not affected by the retrospective adoption of the revised policy.

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 61 FINANCIAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

2.5 Changes in Accounting policy (continued)

The net result for the 2009 end of reporting period changed as follows:

Net result increase/ 2009 2009 (decrease) (restated) $’000 $’000 $’000 Comprehensive operating statement Depreciation and amortisation 5,464 (170) 5,294 Other operating expenses 26,901 160 27,061

Net result (1,462) 10 (1,452)

2.6 Financial Assets

(i) Cash and Deposits

Cash and deposits, including cash equivalents, comprise cash on hand and cash at bank, deposits at call and those highly liquid investments subject to an insignificant risk of changes in value with an original maturity of three months or less, which are held for the purpose of meeting short term cash commitments rather than for investment purposes.

For the purpose of the Cash Flow Statement, cash assets include cash on hand and highly liquid investments with short periods to maturity that are readily convertible to cash on hand at Parks Victoria’s option and are subject to insignificant risk of changes in values, net of outstanding bank overdrafts.

(ii) Receivables

Receivables are recorded initially at fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost, using the effective interest method, less impairment.

The effective interest method is a method of calculating the amortised cost of a financial asset and of allocating interest income over the relevant period. The effective interest rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash receipts through the expected life of the financial asset, or where appropriate, a shorter period.

Collectability of trade receivables is reviewed on an ongoing basis. Debts which are known to be uncollectible are written off. A provision for doubtful debts is established when there is objective evidence that Parks Victoria will not be able to collect all amounts due according to the original terms of receivables. The amount of the provision is the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of estimated future cash flows, discounted at the original effective interest rate. Cash flows relating to short-term receivables are not discounted if the effect of discounting is immaterial. The amount of the provision is recognised in the Comprehensive Operating Statement. A provision for doubtful debts is recognised to the extent that recovery of the outstanding receivable balance is considered less than likely. Bad debts are written off in the period in which they are recognised.

The average credit period on sales of goods or provision of services is 30 days. No interest is charged on trade and other receivables.

62 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

2.6 Financial Assets (Continued)

(iii) Other Financial Assets

Other financial assets are recognised and derecognised on trade date where purchase or sale of an investment is under a contract whose terms require delivery of the investment within the timeframe established by the market concerned, and are initially measured at fair value, net of transaction costs.

Parks Victoria classifies its other financial assets between current and non-current assets based on the purpose for which the assets were acquired. Management determines the classification of its other financial assets at initial recognition.

Parks Victoria assesses at each balance sheet date whether a financial asset or group of financial assets is impaired.

All investments held by Parks Victoria are classified as being available-for-sale and are stated at fair value. Gains and losses arising from changes in fair value are recognised directly in equity, until the investment is disposed of or is determined to be impaired, at which time to the extent appropriate.

2.7 Non Financial Assets

(i) Inventories

Inventories comprise stores and materials and are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Costs are assigned to inventory on hand at balance date on a first-in, first out basis. Net realisable value represents the estimated selling price less all estimated costs of completion and costs to be incurred in marketing, selling distribution.

(ii) Property, Plant and Equipment

All non-current physical assets except land under declared roads are measured initially at cost and subsequently revalued at fair value less accumulated depreciation and impairment.

Property, Plant and Equipment represent non–current assets comprising:

❚ Crown Land, Land and Land Improvements ❚ Buildings and Building Improvements ❚ Piers, Jetties and River Improvements ❚ Plant, Equipment, Machinery and Vehicles ❚ Antiques ❚ Works in Progress used by Parks Victoria in its operations.

Items with a cost or value of $5,000 (previously $1,200 – refer to note 2.5 for information of the financial impact of this change in accounting policy) or more, and a useful life of more than one year are recognised as an asset. All other assets acquired are expensed.

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 63 FINANCIAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

2.7 Non Financial Assets (continued)

Non–current physical assets such as national parks, other Crown land, and heritage assets are measured at fair value with regard to the property’s highest and best use after due consideration is made for any legal or constructive restrictions imposed on the asset, public announcements or commitments made in relation to the intended use of the asset. Theoretical opportunities that may be available in relation to the asset are not taken into account until it is virtually certain that the restrictions will no longer apply.

Road network assets (including earthworks of the declared road networks but excluding land under roads) are measured at fair value, determined by reference to the asset’s depreciated replacement cost. Land under roads which was acquired prior to 1 July 2009 is not recognised. Land under roads which was acquired on or after 1 July 2009 is recognised at cost.

The fair value of cultural depreciated assets and collections, heritage assets and other non-current physical assets that the State intends to preserve because of their unique historical, cultural or environmental attributes, is measured at the replacement cost of the asset less, where applicable, accumulated depreciation calculated on the basis of such cost to reflect the already consumed or expired future economic benefits of the asset and any accumulated impairment.

Revaluations of non-current physical assets

Non-current physical assets measured at fair value are revalued in accordance with FRD103D issued by the Minister for Finance. This revaluation process normally occurs every five years, based upon the asset’s Government Purpose Classification, but may occur more frequently if fair value assessments indicate material changes in value. Revaluation increases or decreases arise from differences between an asset’s carrying value.

Revaluation increases are credited directly to equity in the Physical asset revaluation surplus, except to the extent that an increase reverses a revaluation decrease in respect of that class of property, plant and equipment, previously recognised as an expense (other economic flows) in the net result, the increase is recognised as income (other economic flows) in determining the net result.

Revaluation decreases are recognised immediately as expenses (other economic flows) in the net results, except to the extent that a credit balance exists in the revaluation reserve in respect of the same class of property, plant and equipment, and they are debited to the revaluation reserve.

Revaluation increases and decreases relating to individual assets within a class of property, plant and equipment, are offset against on another within that class but are not offset in respect of assets in different classes.

(iii) Crown Land

Crown land is measured at fair value with regard to the property’s highest and best use after due consideration is made for any legal or constructive restrictions imposed on the land, public announcements or commitments made in relation to the intended use of the land. Theoretical opportunities that may be available in relation to the asset are not taken into account until it is virtually certain that the restrictions will no longer apply.

64 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

2.7 Non Financial Assets (continued)

The financial statements list the location and values of Crown land over which Parks Victoria is the committee of management (refer note 18). This Crown Land remains the property of the State of Victoria.

Crown Land is used for heritage and environmental conservation, recreation, leisure, tourism and navigation.

Restrictive Nature of Cultural and Heritage Assets, Crown Land and Infrastructures

During the reporting period, Parks Victoria held cultural assets, heritage assets, Crown land and infrastructures.

Such assets are deemed worthy of preservation because of the social rather than financial benefits they provide to the community. The nature of these assets means that there are certain limitations and restrictions imposed on their use and/or disposal.

(iv) Intangible assets

Intangible assets are initially recognised at cost. Subsequently, intangible assets with finite useful lives are carried at cost less accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses. Costs incurred subsequent to initial acquisition are capitalised when it is expected that additional future economic benefits will flow to Parks Victoria.

2.8 Impairment of Non–Financial Assets

All Non–financial assets are assessed annually for indications of impairment, except for:

❚ Inventories (refer note 2.7 (i)).

If there is an indication of impairment, the assets concerned are tested as to whether their carrying value exceeds their recoverable amount. Where an asset’s carrying value exceeds its recoverable amount, the difference is written off by charge to the Comprehensive Operating Statement except to the extent that the write – down can be debited to the physical asset revaluation surplus account.

The recoverable amount for most assets is measured at the higher of the present value of future cash flows expected to be obtained from the asset and fair value less costs to sell. It is deemed that, in the event of the loss of an asset, the future asset will be replaced unless a specific decision to the contrary has been made.

2.9 Leased Assets

Leases in which a significant portion of the risks and rewards of ownership are retained by the lesser are classified as operating leases. Operating lease payments are recognised as an expense in the Comprehensive Operating Statement on a straight-line basis over the lease term, except where another systematic basis is more representative of the time pattern in which economic benefits from the leased asset are consumed.

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 65 FINANCIAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

2.10 Liabilities

(i) Payables

Payables are recognised when Parks Victoria becomes obliged to make future payments resulting from goods and services provided prior to the end of the financial year, which are unpaid at financial year end.

Payables are non–interest bearing and have an average credit period of 30 days.

(ii) Employee Benefits

(a) Wages and Salaries and Sick Leave

Liabilities for wages and salaries, including non-monetary benefits, that are expected to be settled within 12 months of the reporting date, are measured at their nominal amounts in respect of employees’ services up to the reporting date. The nominal basis of measurement uses employee remuneration rates that the entity expects to pay as at each reporting date and does not discount cash flows to their present value. Non–vesting sick leave is not expected to exceed current and future sick leave entitlements, and accordingly, no liability has been recognised.

(b) Annual Leave and Long Service Leave

Annual leave and long service leave entitlements expected to be settled within 12 months of the reporting date are recognised as a provision for employee benefits in the Balance Sheet at their nominal values.

Annual leave and long service leave entitlements not expected to be settled within 12 months of the reporting date are recognised at the present value of the estimated future cash outflows to be made by Parks Victoria in respect of services provided by employees up to reporting date. Consideration is given to expected future employee remuneration rates, employment related on-costs and other factors including experience of employee departures and periods of service. In the determinaton of the long service leave entitlement liabilities, Parks Victoria use the wage inflation and discount rates released by the Department of Treasury and Finance.

(c) Classification of Employee Benefits as Current and Non–Current Liabilities

Employee benefit provisions are reported as current liabilities where Parks Victoria does not have an unconditional right to defer settlement for at least 12 months. Consequently, the current portion of the employee benefit provision can include both short–term benefits (those benefits expected to be settled within 12 months of the reporting date), that are measured at nominal values, and long-term benefits (those benefits not expected to be settled within 12 months of the reporting date), that are measured at present values.

Employee benefit provisions that are reported as non-current liabilities also include long-term benefits such as non vested long service leave (i.e. where the employee does not have a present entitlement to the benefit) that do not qualify for recognition as a current liability, and are measured at present vales. The non-current liability for long service leave represents entitlements accrued for employees with less than 7 years of continuous service.

66 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

2.10 Liabilities (continued)

(ii) Employee Benefits (continued)

(d) Performance Payments

Performance payments for Parks Victoria’s Executive Officers are based on a percentage of the annual salary package provided under their contracts of employment. A liability is recognised and is measured as the aggregate of the amounts accrued under the terms of the contracts at balance date. Since the performance payments earned are paid upon completion of annual performance reviews, the total amount is classified as a current liability.

(e) Superannuation

Contributions are made by Parks Victoria to employee superannuation funds and are charged as expenses when incurred.

Disclosure of superannuation contributions by Parks Victoria is provided in Note 29.

(iii) Provisions

Provisions are recognised when Parks Victoria has a present obligation, the future sacrifice of economic benefits is probable, and the amount of the provision can be measured reliably.

The amount recognised as a provision is the best estimate of the consideration required to settle the present obligation at reporting date, taking into account the risks and uncertainties surrounding the obligation. Where a provision is measured using the cashflows estimated to settle the present obligation, its carrying amount is the present value of those cashflows.

When some or all of the economic benefits required to settle a provision are expected to be recognised from a third party, the receivable is recognised as an asset if it is virtually certain that recovery will be received and the amount of the receivable can be measured reliably.

(iv) Deferred Revenue

Deferred revenues represents the portion of reciprocal government and external grants/funding which at end of financial year has not yet been performed (see Note 2.13).

2.11 Provision for Dismantling

When an asset is initially recognised, AASB 116 Property, Plant and Equipment requires the capitalisation of costs of dismantling and removing an asset and restoring the site on which the asset was created, together with the recognition of this provision determined at present value in accordance with AASB 137 Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets. As a consequence, there is an increase in depreciation expense as a result of the increase in the carrying amounts of assets and also an interest expense would be incurred as the present value discount on the dismantling unwinds.

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 67 FINANCIAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

2.12 Contributed Capital

Consistent with interpretation 1038 Contributions by Owners Made to Wholly-Owned Public Sector Entities and FRD 119 Contributions by Owners, appropriations for additions to the net asset base have been designated as contributed capital. Other transfers that are in the nature of contributions or distributions have also been designated as contributed capital.

2.13 Income Recognition

Amounts disclosed as income are, where applicable, net of returns, allowances and duties and taxes.

Parks Charge income is recognised when invoiced by Parks Victoria. Other income, including external grants/funding, is recognised when earned or on receipt, depending on which occurs earlier.

Where government and external grants/funding are reciprocal, income is recognised as performance occurs under the grant. Non-reciprocal grants are recognised as income when the grant is received or receivable. Conditional grants may be reciprocal or non-reciprocal depending on the terms of the grant. Where the grants / funding received has not been expended and a reciprocal agreement exists, whereby the external revenue is required to be repaid if not used or an asset transfer to the external party is to occur upon completion of the asset, Parks Victoria records this revenue as deferred revenue.

2.14 Grants and Other Payments

Grants and other payments to third parties are recognised as an expense in the reporting period in which they are paid or payable.

2.15 Resources Provided and Received Free of Charge or For Nominal Consideration

Contributions of resources (including volunteer resources and assets received free of charge or for nominal consideration) and assets provided free of charge or for nominal consideration are recognised at their fair value. Contributions in the form of services are only recognised when a fair value can be reliably determined and the services would have been purchased if not donated.

2.16 Interest income

Interest income includes unwinding over time of discounts on financial assets and interest received on bank term deposits and other investments.

Interest income is recognised on a time proportionate basis that takes into account the effective yield on the financial asset.

68 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

2.17 Depreciation and amortisation

Depreciation is applied to completed fixed assets including Land Improvements, Buildings and Improvements, Piers, Jetties and River Improvements, Plant, Equipment and Machinery, Motor Vehicles and Other. Land and Antiques are not depreciated. Works in Progress is valued at cost and depreciation commences on completion of the works.

Depreciation is calculated on a straight-line basis to systematically write off the cost or revalued amount of each non–current asset over its expected useful life to the entity.

Depreciation rates are reviewed annually and, if necessary, adjusted to reflect the most recent assessments of the useful lives and residual values of the respective assets.

Where assets have separate identifiable components that have distinct useful lives and/or residual values a separate depreciation rate is determined for each component.

The expected useful life of each asset category is the same as the previous year and is as follows:

Asset Category Expected Life (Years) Buildings and Building Improvements 10 to 100 Piers, Jetties and River Improvements 20 to 100 Land Improvements 10 to 50 Plant, Equipment, Machinery and Vehicles 3 to 10

Amortisation is calculated on a straight–line basis to systematically write off the cost or revalued amount of each intangible asset over its expected useful life to the entity.

Amortisation rates are reviewed annually and, if necessary, adjusted to reflect the most recent assessments of the useful lives and residual values of the respective assets.

The expected useful life of each Intangible assets category (Computer Software) is 10 years.

2.18 Finance costs

Finance costs are recognised as expenses in the period in which they are incurred.

2.19 Commitments

Commitments are disclosed at their nominal value and inclusive of the goods and services tax (GST) payable. In addition, where it is considered appropriate and provides additional relevant information to users, the net present values of significant individual projects are stated.

2.20 Contingent assets and contingent liabilities

Contingent assets and contingent liabilities are not recognised in the balance sheet, but are disclosed by way of a note and, if quantifiable, are measured at nominal value. Contingent assets and liabilities are presented inclusive of GST receivable or payable respectively.

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 69 FINANCIAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

2.21 Goods and Services Tax

Revenues, expenses and assets are recognised net of goods and services tax (GST), except where the amount of GST incurred is not recoverable from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). In these circumstances, the GST is recognised as part of the cost of acquisition of the asset or as part of an item of expense.

Receivables and payables are stated inclusive of GST. The net amount of GST recoverable from,or payable to, the ATO is included as part of receivables or payables.

Cash flows are included in the cash flow statement on a gross basis. The GST component of cash flows arising from investing and financing activities, which is recoverable from, or payable to, the ATO, is classified as operating cash flows and disclosed therein.

2.22 Rounding of Amounts

Amounts in the financial statements have been rounded to the nearest thousand dollars, unless otherwise stated. Figures in the financial statements may not equate due to rounding.

70 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

2.23 New Accounting Standards and Interpretations

Certain new AASs have been published that are not mandatory for the 30 June 2010 reporting period. Parks Victoria assesses the impact of these new standards and advises their applicability and early adoption where applicable.

As at 30 June 2010, the following standards and interpretations (applicable to agencies) had been issued but were not mandatory for the financial year ending 30 June 2010. Parks Victoria has not early adopted these standards.

Applicable for annual reporting periods Impact on departmental Standard / Interpretation Summary beginning on financial statements

AASB 2009–5 Further Some amendments will result Beginning 1 Jan 2010 Terminology and editorial amendments to Australian in accounting changes for changes. Impact minor. Accounting Standards presentation, recognition or arising from the annual measurement purposes, while improvements project other amendments will relate [AASB 5, 8, 101, 107, 117, to terminology and editorial 118, 136 and 139] changes.

Erratum General Editorial amendments to a Beginning 1 Jan 2010 Terminology and editorial Terminology changes range of Australian Accounting changes. Impact minor. Standards and Interpretations

AASB 2009–13 Amendments Consequential amendment to Beginning 1 Jul 2010 Parks Victoria does not to Australian Accounting AASB 1 arising from publication extinguish financial liabilities Standards arising from of Interpretation 19. with equity instruments, interpretation 19 [AASB 1] therefore requirements of Interpretation 19 and related amendments have no impact.

AASB 124 Related party Government related entities Beginning 1 Jan 2011 Preliminary assessment suggests disclosures (Dec 2009) have been granted partial that impact is insignificant. exemption with certain However, Parks Victoria will disclosure requirements. assess the detailed impact and whether to adopt early next year.

AASB 2009–14 Amendments Amendment to Interpretation Beginning 1 Jan 2011 Expected to have no significant to Australian Interpretation 14 arising from the issuance impact. – Prepayments of a minimum of Prepayments of a minimum funding requirement funding requirement. [AASB Interpretation 14]

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 71 FINANCIAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

2.23 New Accounting Standards and Interpretations (continued)

Applicable for annual reporting periods Impact on departmental Standard / Interpretation Summary beginning on financial statements

AASB 9 Financial instruments This standard simplifies Beginning 1 Jan 2013 Detail of impact will be requirements for the assessed. classification and measurement of financial assets resulting from Phase 1 of the IASB’s project to replace IAS 39 Financial instruments: recognition and measurement (AASB 139 financial Instruments: recognition and measurement).

AASB 2009–11 Amendments This gives effect to consequential Beginning 1 Jan 2013 Detail of impact will be to Australian Accounting changes arising from the assessed. Standards arising from issuance of AASB 9. AASB 9 [AASB 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, 101, 102, 108, 112, 118, 121, 127, 128, 131, 132, 136, 139, 1023 and 1038 and Interpretations 10 and 12]

AASB 1053 This Standard establishes a Beginning 1 July 2013 This Standard does not affect Application of Different Tiers differential reporting framework the operating result or financial of Australian Accounting consisting of two tiers of position. Expected to have no Standards reporting requirements of impact. preparing general purpose financial statements.

AASB 2010–2 This Standard makes Beginning 1 July 2013 This Standard does not affect Amendments to Australian amendments to many Australian the operating result or financial Accounting Standards arising Accounting Standards, including position. Expected to have no from Reduced Disclosure interpretations, to introduce impact. Requirements reduced disclosures requirements applicable to certain types of entities.

72 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

2010 2009 $’000 $’000 3 Parks and Reserve Trust Funding Parks Charge 72,428 68,167 Total Parks & Reserves Trust Funding 72,428 68,167

The Parks & Reserves Trust Funding is a charge levied on commercial and domestic properties throughout the Melbourne and metropolitan area, the majority of which is paid to Parks Victoria.

4 Government Funding National / State Parks and Reserves funding 54,917 51,780 Government Grants for special projects 10,720 4,216 Program Initiatives (including Tracks & Trails and Good Neighbour programs) 1,507 1,506 Major Works funding provided by the Department of Sustainability and Environment 24,891 25,096 Major Works funding provided by the Department of Innovation, Industry and – 415 Regional Development Major Works funding provided by the Department of Planning and Community Development 54 54 Total Government Funding 92,089 83,067

5 Interest Interest from financial assets not at fair value though profit or loss:

Interest on Bank Deposits and Other Financial Assets 5,193 5,081 Total Interest 5,193 5,081

6 Fair Value of Assets Received Free of Charge Australian Grand Prix Corporation (AGPC) assets transferred from the 70 132 Department of Innovation, Industry and Regional Development Total Fair Value of Assets Received Free of Charge 70 132

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 73 FINANCIAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

2010 2009 $’000 $’000 7 Other Income Accommodation / Camping fees 4,889 4,050 Funding sponsored by external parties 1,287 891 Rent, Leases & Licences 6,558 5,729 Park entrance fees 1,481 1,468 External sales 2,232 1,813 Insurance claims 3,262 2,785 Yarra Bend Park – rent fees 1,313 1,668 Berthing / Mooring fees 321 287 Cave tour fees 612 560 Fire Suppression costs, recovered 4,154 6,090 Reversal of provision for dismantling 642 – Other 3,020 2,746 Total Other Income 29,771 28,087

8 Employee Benefits Salaries, Wages, Termination Benefits and Long Service Leave 70,664 70,337 Superannuation 5,786 5,106 FBT and Payroll Taxes 4,448 4,044 Other On-Costs 1,717 1,533 Total Employee Benefits 82,615 81,020

9 Depreciation and Amortisation Land Improvements 1,818 1,808 Buildings and Improvements 1,929 1,928 Piers, Jetties and River Improvements 1,341 1,233 Plant and equipment 292 325 Intangibles 435 – Total Depreciation 5,815 5,294

10 Finance costs Unwinding of discount and effect of changes in the discount rate for:

Provision for dismantling (see note 22 c) – 67 Total Finance Costs – 67

74 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

2010 2009 $’000 $’000 11 Contracts and External Services Contracts 55,616 47,088 Other External Services 28,432 24,277 Total Contracts and External Services 84,048 71,365

12 Other Operating Expenses Materials 6,486 5,954 Transport 6,792 8,240 Payments to Government for Revenue collected from National Parks 7,894 6,293 Payments to Local Government, Other Agencies, Community Groups and for Program 1,427 1,148 Operating Costs Insurance premium 6,331 2,726 Payments for works sponsored by external parties 1,619 1,579 Other 1,449 1,122 Total Other Operating Expenses 31,998 27,061

13 Other Economic Flows Included in Net Result

(a) Net Gain/(loss) on Non–financial Assets Impairment of property, plant and equipment (11) (75)

(b) Net Gain/(loss) on Financial Instruments Provision for doubtful (305) – Reversal of unused provision – 145

(c) Other gains/(losses) from other economic flows Net gain/(loss) arising from revaluation of long service liability (2,485) (1,249) Total Other Economic Flows included in Net Result (2,801) (1,179)

14 Cash and deposits – Current Cash and deposits 36,543 48,593 Total cash and deposits 36,543 48,593

(a) Risk exposure Park Victoria’s exposure to interest rate risk is discussed in note 33. The maximum exposure to credit risk at the end of the reporting period is the carrying amount of each class of cash and deposits mentioned above.

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 75 FINANCIAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

2010 2009 $’000 $’000 15 Receivables Receivables – Current Debtors 9,952 6,806 Provision for doubtful debts (436) (137) Total Receivables – current 9,516 6,669

Receivables – Non-Current Other Receivables 99 94 Total Receivables – Non-current 99 94

Total Receivables 9,615 6,763

(a) Movement in the provision for doubtful receivables Balance at beginning of the year (137) (384) Reversal of unused provision recognised in the net result – 145 Increase in provision recognised in the net result (305) – Reversal of provision written off during the year as uncollectible 6 102 Balance at the end of the year (436) (137)

(b) Ageing analysis of contractual receivables Refer to note 33.2 for the ageing analysis of receivables (except statutory receivables).

(c) Nature and extent of risk arising from contractual receivables Refer to note 33 for the nature and extent of risks arising from contractual receivables.

16 Other Financial Assets Available for Sale Financial Assets Australian Dollar Term Deposit > 3 months 60,000 20,000 Total Other Financial Assets – non-current 60,000 20,000

(a) Ageing analysis of investments and other financial assets Please refer to Note 33 for the ageing analysis of other financial assets.

(b) Nature and extent of risk arising from investments and other financial assets Please refer to Note 33 for the nature and extent of risks arising from investments and other financial assets.

76 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

2010 2009 $’000 $’000 17 Inventories – current Stock on Hand (at cost) 138 142 Total Inventories 138 142

18 Property, Plant and Equipment – Non-current 18a Classification by Public Safety and Environment – carrying amounts

Crown Land, Land and Land Improvements Crown Land, Land and Land Improvements 1,275,379 1,036,702 Less: accumulated depreciation (7,276) (5,458) Net Crown Land, Land and Land Improvements at fair value 1,268,103 1,031,244

Buildings and Building Improvements Buildings and Building Improvements 97,403 94,397 Less: accumulated depreciation (3,963) (2,044) Net Buildings and Building Improvements at fair value 93,440 92,353

Plant, Equipment, Machinery and Vehicles Plant, Equipment, Machinery and Vehicles 7,627 7,718 Less: accumulated depreciation (5,920) (5,854) Net Plant, Equipment, Machinery and Vehicles at fair value 1,707 1,864

Piers, Jetties and River Improvements Piers, Jetties and River Improvements 78,040 76,340 Less: accumulated depreciation (4,572) (3,231) Net Piers, Jetties and River Improvements at fair value 73,468 73,109

Antiques At fair value 1,268 1,268 Closing Balance – Antiques 1,268 1,268

Works in Progress At cost 17,660 7,505 Closing Balance – Works in Progress 17,660 7,505

Net carrying amount of Property, Plant and Equipment 1,455,646 1,207,343

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 77 FINANCIAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

18 Property, Plant and Equipment – Non–current (continued)

18b Classification by Public Safety and Environment – Carrying amounts

Crown Land, Land and Buildings and Building Plant, Equipment, Land Improvements Improvements Machinery and Vehicles at fair value or at cost at fair value or at cost at cost 2010 2009 2010 2009 2010 2009 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Opening balance 1,031,244 1,031,554 92,353 92,201 1,864 2,939 Additions 238,677 726 3,016 556 131 354 Disposals – – – – (11) – Net revaluation increments/ decrements – – – – – – Depreciation expense (1,818) (1,808) (1,929) (1,929) (292) (494) Impairment loss – – – (71) – (3) Asset Transfer – 772 – 1,596 55 Other adjustments – – – – (40) (932) Closing balance 1,268,103 1,031,244 93,440 92,353 1,747 1,864

Crown Land, Land and Land Improvements * Parks Victoria Land property has been updated using indices compiled by the office of the Valuer- General. The indices are based on the estimated percentage movement in values for each land use in each postcode area for the nominated financial year. The methodology employed for the revaluation of Crown Land, Land and Improvements at fair value, involved the use of the appropriate percentage increase or decrease extracted from the postcode indices, matched with the property zoning. The effective date of the valuation is 30th June 2008. Land improvements were last valued at 30 June 2006.

Buildings and Improvements, Piers, Jetties and River Improvements * These assets have been updated using indices compiled by the office of the Valuer-General. The indices are based on the estimated percentage movement in costs for each asset for the nominated financial year. The methodology employed for the revaluation of these assets at fair value, involved an estimate of cost movements as per asset types & location based on reputable cost movement publications. The effective date of the valuation is 30 June 2008.

* A review was made under the provisions of AASB 116 as at 30 June 2009 and there was no material change to the indexation for the period.

* In accordance with FRD 103D, a fair value assessments have been performed by management for these classes of assets and not material changes 2010 were identified in the carrying amounts as at 30 June (30 June 2009 – Nil).

78 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 Piers, Jetties and River Improvements Antiques Works in Progress at fair value or at cost at fair value at cost Total 2010 2009 2010 2009 2010 2009 2010 2009 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 73,109 72,965 1,268 1,268 7,505 5,409 1,207,343 1,206,336 50 520 – – 19,341 5,321 261,215 7,477 – – – – – – (11) – – – – – – – – – (1,341) (1,233) – – – – (5,380) (5,464) – – – – – – – (74) 1,650 857 – – (9,186) (3,225) (7,481) – – – – – – (40) (932) 73,468 73,109 1,268 1,268 17,660 7,505 1,455,646 1,207,343

Antiques For and on behalf of the office of the Valuer–General Victoria, the valuers for Colliers International Consultancy and Valuation Pty. Limited, one a government approved valuer, the other a member of the Australian Property Institute of Certified Practising Valuers, determined that the most appropriate methodology for the revaluation of Antiques at fair value, was to assess the dollar value, with reference to the active and liquid antiques’ auction market, having regard to the highest and best use of the asset, for which market participants would be prepared to pay. These assets were revalued during a systematic three-year progressive revaluation process, conducted over the financial years ended 30 June 2003 to 30 June 2005.

The William Ricketts Sanctuary is located in the Dandenong Ranges Gardens & contains over 70 in- ground aboriginal sculptures created by the late William Ricketts. The assets are of cultural and heritage significance. A valuation of these assets is not able to be determined.

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 79 FINANCIAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

18 Property, Plant and Equipment – Non-current (continued)

(c) Crown Land, Land and Land Improvements at fair value

2010 2009 Crown Land 2010 Area 2010 2009 Area 2009 Location (Hectares) $’000 (Hectares) $’000 You Yangs Regional Park 1,960 3,648 1,960 3,648 Devilbend Reservoir 1,005 25,125 1,005 25,125 Eildon Water Reserve 533 1,187 533 1,187 Dandenong Police Paddocks 499 91,187 499 91,187 Bays Assets * 498 Not Valued 498 Not Valued Lighthouse Reserves 329 1,897 329 1,897 Dandenong Ranges Gardens 278 2,349 278 2,349 Buchan Caves Reserve 260 336 260 336 Yarra Bend Park 260 236,700 – – Albert Park 229 667,809 229 667,809 Serendip Sanctuary 227 499 227 499 Plenty Gorge 222 2,449 222 2,449 Yarra Valley 139 112,890 139 112,890 Werribee Park 130 4,738 130 4,738 Vaughan Springs 100 120 100 120 Coolart 79 6,033 79 6,033 Mt Dandenong Observatory Reserve 72 1,891 72 1,891 Olinda Golf Course 34 509 34 509 Westgate 34 44,351 34 44,351 Maribyrnong Valley 22 1,437 22 1,437 Dandenong Valley 6 2,523 6 2,523 Peach Tree Creek 4 25 4 25 Point Cook / Cheetham 4 74 4 74 Herring Island 3 7,009 3 7,009 Queenscliff (not including Bays Assets * component) 3 2,946 3 2,946 Orbost Rain Forest 1 167 1 167 Rosebud 1 2,857 1 2,857 San Remo 1 425 1 425 Total Crown Land 6,933 1,221,181 6,673 984,481

* Represents sea beds located at Swan Bay (220 Ha), Queenscliff (137 Ha) and 141 Ha being sea beds under 31 piers located within Port Phillip Bay and Western Port Bay.

80 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

18 Property, Plant and Equipment – Non-current (continued)

(c) Crown Land, Land and Land Improvements at fair value (continued)

2010 2009 $’000 $’000 Land, & Land Improvements Total Land and Land Improvements at fair value 46,922 46,763 Total Crown Land, Land and Land Improvements 1,268,103 1,031,244

19 Intangible assets – Non–current

Computer software Total 2010 2009 2010 2009 $000 $000 $000 $000 Gross carrying amount Opening balance – – – – Additions 7,481 7,481 – Closing balance 7,481 – 7,481 –

Accumulated amortisation and impairment Opening balance – – – – Amortisation expense 435 – 435 – Closing balance 435 – 435 – Net book value at end of financial year 7,046 – 7,046 –

2010 2009 $’000 $’000 20 Other Non-Financial Assets – Current Prepayments 80 179 Total Other Non-Financial Assets 80 179

21 Payables – Current Unsecured Creditors and Accruals 21,094 19,255 Total Payables 21,094 19,255

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 81 FINANCIAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

2010 2009 $’000 $’000 22 Provisions

(a) Current Provisions: Employee Benefits Annual Leave Entitlements 6,102 5,312 Long Service Leave – Unconditional and Expected to Be Settled Within 12 Months 1,970 1,537 Long Service Leave – Unconditional and Expected to Be Settled After 12 Months 15,958 14,755 24,030 21,604

Provisions Related to Employee Benefit On–costs Annual Leave Entitlements 1,043 900 Long Service Leave – Unconditional and expected to be settled within 12 months 346 271 Long Service Leave – Unconditional and expected to be settled after 12 months 2,804 2,601 4,193 3,772

Total Current Provisions 28,223 25,376

(b) Non-Current Provisions Employee Benefits – Long Service Leave 1,464 978 1,464 978 Provisions Related to Employee Benefit On-costs Provisions Related to Employee Benefit On-costs – Long Service Leave 257 172 257 172

Total Non–Current Provisions 1,721 1,150

Total Employee Benefits and Related On-costs 29,944 26,526

(c) Movement in Non-current Provision for Dismantling: Opening Balance 642 575 Unwinding of discount and effect of changes in the discount rate – 67 Reversal of provision for dismantling (642) – Balance at 30 June – 642

Total Provisions 29,944 27,168

The provision for dismantling represented the present value of expected future cash flow payments that Park Victoria were obliged to make in respect of the costs of dismantling and removing leasehold improvements and restoring the leased preemies to its original state. As of June 2010, the lease was expanded to a further 10 years with NIL dismantling costs at the end of the lease terms, hence the reversal of the provision for dismantling.

82 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

2010 2009 $’000 $’000 23 Deferred Revenue

(a) Deferred Revenue – Current Opening Balance 39,986 31,757 Movement in Deferred Revenue – Current: Revenue recognised during the year (53,748) (48,833) Payments received in advance for works to be carried out within 12 months, 89,985 57,061 with the amounts to be refunded if not undertaken. Net movement in Deferred Revenue – Current 36,237 8,229

Total Deferred Revenue – Current 76,223 39,986

(b) Deferred Revenue – Non–Current Opening Balance 1,085 1,306 Movement in Deferred Revenue – Non-Current: Revenue recognised during the year. (280) (221) Net movement in Deferred Revenue – Non-Current (280) (221)

Total Deferred Revenue – Non-Current 805 1,085

Total Deferred Revenue 77,028 41,071

24 Physical asset revaluation surplus Movement in Physical Asset Revaluation Surplus Opening Balance 901,818 901,818 Revaluation of Parks Victoria Assets: Crown Land, Land and Land Improvements – – Buildings and Building Improvements – – Net Revaluation Increment on Parks Victoria Assets – –

Total physical asset revaluation surplus 901,818 901,818

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 83 FINANCIAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

2010 2009 $’000 $’000 25 Contributed Capital

Opening Balance 334,465 328,784 Cash transferred – DSE (1) 10,788 5,681 Yarra Bend Park Trust net assets transferred (2) 242,413 – Total Contributed Capital 587,667 334,465

(1) The cash transferred for Bikes and Trails for a Liveable City Initiative, Urban parks and Trails initiative, Bays and Maritime Initiative, Great Parks for a Liveable City Initiative, Piers and Jetties Initiative, Visitor Management System, Asset Replacement and Renewal and Frankston Reservoir.

(2) Parks Victoria were appointed as Committee of Management over the Yarra Bend Park commencing 17 December 2009, and all assets and liabilities transfer from the Yarra Bend Park Trust by way of an Allocation Statement to Parks Victoria as follows : Cash and Deposits $812k, Receivables $87k, Property, Plant and Equipment $241,798k, Payables ($256k) and Reveniue received in advance ($28K).

A Management Arrangements Review commissioned by the Department of Sustainability and Environment on behalf of the responsible Minister, recommended the Government transfer the management of Yarra Bend Park from the Yarra Bend Park Trust to Parks Victoria.

The changes in management arrangements will ensure the future of the Park is sustained long term through improved access to the State’s resources and expertise, as is the case with other Melbourne parks.

The transfer comprised of Cash and Deposits, Receivables, Property, Plant and Equipment, Payables and Revenue received in advance.

84 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

2010 2009 $’000 $’000 26 Cash Flow Information

(a) Reconciliation of cash and cash equivalents Total cash and cash equivalents disclosed in the balance sheet 36,543 48,593 Bank overdraft – – Balance as per cash flow statement 36,543 48,593

(b) Non–cash financing and investing activities Restructuring of administrative arrangements Transfer of Assets from – Yarra Bend Park Trust 241,798 –

(c) Reconciliation of Net Results for the period to Net cash Flows from Operating Activities Net result for the period (7,726) (1,452) Non–cash movements: Depreciation and Amortisation for the Year 5,815 5,294 Provision for doubtful debts 305 (145) Net assets (received) / provided free of charge (70) (132) Loss / (gain) on sale, retirement and / or revaluation of assets 11 45 Finance costs – 67 Reversal of provision for dismantling (642) – Change in Assets and Liabilities: Decrease / (Increase) in receivables (3,153) (395) Decrease / (Increase) in inventories 4 (29) Decrease / (Increase) in other current assets 100 136 Increase / (Decrease) in provisions 3,418 3,075 Increase / (Decrease) in payables 1,839 3,455 Increase / (Decrease) in deferred revenue 35,958 8,007 Net Cash from/(used in) Operating Activities 35,859 17,926

(d) Credit Card and Merchant Facilities Total Credit Card Facility 2,000 2,000 Total Merchant Facility 370 370

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 85 FINANCIAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

2010 2009 $’000 $’000 27 Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets

(a) Contingent Liabilities – Other Outstanding Claims There are no material claims against Parks Victoria arising out of various matters connected with its operating activities.

(b) Contingent Assets There are no claims lodged by Parks Victoria arising out of matters connected with its operating activities.

28 Commitments

(a) Capital Commitments Value of commitments for capital expenditure at 30 June 2010 for the supply of works, services and materials not provided for in the financial statements:

Not Later than One Year 5,974 6,153 Later than One Year and Not Later than Five Years – – Later than Five Years – – Total Capital Commitments 5,974 6,153

(b) Lease Commitments Total expenditure contracted for at balance date but not provided for in the financial statements in relation to non- cancellable operating leases is as follows:

Not Later than One Year 9,823 8,483 Later than One Year and Not Later than Five Years 16,927 8,771 Later than Five Years 9,426 674 Total Non Cancellable Operating Leases 36,176 17,928

Leasing arrangements Operating leases relate to building facilities with lease terms of between three to seven years, with an option to extend for a further three years. All operating lease contracts contain market review clauses in the event that Parks Victoria exercises its option to renew. Parks Victoria does not have an option to purchase the leased asset at the expiry of the lease period.

86 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

29 Superannuation Parks Victoria contributes, in respect of its employees (including salary sacrifice), to the superannuation schemes as follows:

2010 2009 Scheme Type of Scheme Contribution Rate $’000 $’000 AMP Flexible Lifetime Super Accumulation Various 49 26 AMP SuperLeader Accumulation Various 13 14 ANZ One Answer Super Accumulation Various 52 47 Asgard Capital Management Ltd Accumulation Various 59 69 Australian Ethical Retail Superannuation Accumulation Various 10 – Australian Government Employee Superannuation Trust Accumulation Various 18 12 Australiansuper Pty Ltd Accumulation Various 119 60 Barkly Terrace Superannuation Fund SMSF Various 38 – Care Super Accumulation Various 21 22 Chris and Helen Rose Superannuation Fund SMSF Various 16 – Colonial First State Accumulation Various 93 85 Construction and Building Union Superannuation Fund Accumulation Various 32 19 Emergency Services Superannuation Fund Accumulation Various 98 97 Emergency Services Superannuation Fund Defined 16% – 17 Government Superannuation Office Defined Various 1,681 1,432 Government Superannuation Office – Revised Defined 17% – 178 Government Superannuation Office – SERBS Defined 13% – 16 HESTA Accumulation Various 22 – Host Plus Pty Ltd Accumulation Various 30 22 Kerry Tait & Chris Hayward Super Fund SMSF Various 25 – Legal Super Accumulation Various 28 23 Macquarie Personal Superannuation Plan Accumulation Various 12 17 MC & EB Private Superannuation Fund SMSF Various 24 – Mead Superannuation Fund SMSF Various 39 – MLC Nominees Pty Limited Accumulation Various 10 – MTAA Superannuation Fund Accumulation Various 36 – Navigator Business Super Accumulation Various 17 – Perpetuals Investor Choice Superannuation Fund Accumulation Various 14 19 Portfolio Service RF Accumulation Various 64 63 PortfolioCare Super Accumulation Various 46 29 Private Superannuation Funds Accumulation Various – 221 Recruitment Super Accumulation Various 14 16 Retail Employees Superannuation Trust Accumulation Various 31 26 Solid Rock Superannuation Fund Accumulation Various 19 – Superwrap Accumulation Various – 20 The Michelson Superannuation Fund Accumulation Various 27 – The Sally Nowlan Superannuation Fund Accumulation Various 19 – The Select Master Superannuation Fund Accumulation Various 14 62 UniSuper Limited Accumulation Various 42 76 Vicsuper Pty Ltd Accumulation Various 1,674 1,454 Vision Super – Local Authorities Plan Defined 9% – 45 Vision Super – Super Saver Accumulation Various 3,816 2,787 Vision Super – Transport Scheme Defined Various – 80 Vision Super – Water Industry Plan Defined Various – 699 Others 97 109 Total Contributions to All Funds 8,418 7,863

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 87 FINANCIAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

29 Superannuation (continued) As at the reporting date, there were no outstanding contributions payable to the above funds. There were no loans to or from Parks Victoria to or from any of the above funds. Parks Victoria is not liable for any unfunded liability in respect of the above employer sponsored defined benefits superannuation schemes.

30 Volunteer Resources Provided Free of Charge In 2009–10 volunteers contributed in excess of 25,348 days of voluntary labour on Parks Victoria managed land.

Volunteers including friends groups, individuals, tertiary students, Campground Hosts, walking and recreational clubs, field naturalists and corporate organisations undertake varied activities including conserving historic huts, tree planting, providing information to visitors, revegetation, nursery maintenance and propagation.

No estimate of the value of these resources has been included in the financial report as there is no practical way of determining an appropriate valuation basis.

2010 2009 $’000 $’000 31 Auditor’s Remuneration Amounts paid / payable to: Victorian Auditor–General’s Office for the audit of the financial statements 61 58

32 Related Parties

(a) Responsible Persons The names of persons who were Board Members at any time during the financial year ended 30 June 2010 were: R Gerrand, L Appleby, C Ballenden, D Bell, R Gowans, N Harvey, K King, J Labourne, J Mahoney.

The name of the responsible Minister from 1 July 2009 to 30 June 2010 was Gavin Jennings MLC, Minister for Environment and Climate Change.

The name of the accountable officer for the whole of the financial year ended 30 June 2010 was M Stone.

(b) Remuneration Remuneration received or receivable by the Accountable Officer in connection with the management of Parks Victoria during the reporting period was in the range:

$290,000 – $299,999 ($280,000 – $289,000 in 2008–09)

88 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

32 Related Parties (continued)

(c) Board Members Remuneration 2010 2009 $’000 $’000 Total remuneration received or due and receivable by Board Members from the reporting entity was: 192 193

The number of Board Members of the reporting entity included in this figure is as below: Income of Number Number $0 to $9,999 – – $10,000 to $19,999 4 8 $20,000 to $29,999 4 – $40,000 to $49,999 1 1

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 89 FINANCIAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

32 Related Parties (continued)

(c) Executive Officers Remuneration The number of executive officers, other than Ministers and Accountable Officers, and their total remuneration during the reporting period are shown in the first two columns in the table below in their relevant income bands. The base remuneration of executive officers is shown in the third and fourth columns. Base remuneration is exclusive of bonus payments, long–service leave payments, redundancy payments and retirement benefits.

A number of employment contracts were completed during the year and renegotiated and a number of executives received bonus payments during the year. These bonus payments depend on the terms of individual employment contracts. Some contracts provide for an annual bonus payment whereas other contracts only include the payment of bonuses on the successful completion of the full term of the contract.

Total Remuneration Base Remuneration

2010 Number 2009 Number 2010 Number 2009 Number $100,000 to $109,999 – – – – $110,000 to $119,999 – – – – $120,000 to $129,999 – – – 2 $130,000 to $139,999 – 3 1 3 $140,000 to $149,999 2 3 3 4 $150,000 to $159,999 3 3 5 3 $160,000 to $169,999 5 3 2 1 $170,000 to $179,999 1 1 – 3 $180,000 to $189,999 1 1 5 – $190,000 to $199,999 2 2 – – $200,000 to $209,999 2 – 1 1 $220,000 to $229,999 – 1 – – $230,000 to $239,999 1 – – – Total numbers 17 17 17 17

Total amount ($ ‘000) 2,962 2,772 2,782 2,606

Executive officer base remunerations were reviewed by the Government Senior Executive Remuneration Panel (GSERP) and increases paid in accordance with Government guidelines.

(d) Other Transactions of Board Members and Board Member–related entities

2010 2009 $’000 $’000 Other Transactions of Board Members and Board Member–related entities Nil Nil

90 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

33 Financial Instruments

(a) Financial risk management objectives Parks Victoria’s activities expose it primarily to the financial risks of changes in interest rates. Parks Victoria does not enter into derivative financial instruments to manage its exposure to interest rate risk.

Parks Victoria does not enter into or trade financial instruments, including derivative financial instruments for speculative purposes as per the Victorian Governments Borrowing and Investment Powers Act 1987 and subsequent amendments.

The policies for managing this risks is discussed in more detail below.

(b) Significant Accounting Policies Details of the significant accounting policies and methods adopted, including the criteria for recognition, the basis of measurement and the basis on which income and expenses are recognised, in respect of each class of financial asset, financial liability and equity instrument are disclosed in note 2 to the financial statements.

The carrying amounts of Park Victoria’s financial assets and financial liabilities by category are in Table 33.1 below.

Table 33.1: Categorisation of Financial Instruments 2010 2009 Note Category $’000 $’000 Financial assets Cash and cash equivalents 14 N/A 36,543 48,593 Receivables 33.2 Loans and receivables (at amortised cost) 2,923 2,601 Other financial assets 16 Available-for-sale financial assets (at fair value) 60,000 20,000

Financial liabilities Payables 21 21,094 19,255

Note: (a) The amount of receivables disclosed here exclude statutory receivables (i.e. Amounts owing from Victorian Government and GST input tax credit recoverable). For 2010 this was $6.7M (2009 $4.2M).

(c) Significant Terms and Conditions There are no significant terms and conditions applicable to Parks Victoria, in respect of each class of financial asset, financial liability and equity instrument.

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 91 FINANCIAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

33 Financial Instruments (Continued)

(d) Credit Risk Credit risk arises from the financial assets of the entity, which comprise cash and cash equivalents, trade and other receivables, available-for-sale financial assets and derivative instruments. Parks Victoria’s exposure to credit risk arises from the potential default of counter party on their contractual obligations resulting in financial loss to the agency. Credit risk is measured at fair value and is monitored on a regular basis.

Credit risk associated with the agency’s financial assets is minimal because the main debtor is the Victorian Government. For debtors other than government, it is the agency’s policy to only deal with entities with high credit ratings and to obtain sufficient collateral or credit enhancements where appropriate.

In addition, the agency does not engage in hedging for its financial assets and mainly obtains financial assets that are on fixed interest.

Provision of impairment for financial assets is calculated based on past experience, and current and expected changes in client credit ratings.

Financial assets that are either past due or impaired Currently Parks Victoria does not hold any collateral as security nor credit enhancements relating to any of its financial assets.

As at the reporting date, there is no event to indicate that any of the financial assets were impaired.

There are no financial assets that have had their terms renegotiated so as to prevent them from being past due or impaired, and they are stated at the carrying amounts as indicated. The following table discloses the ageing only of financial assets that are past due but not impaired.

Table 33.2: Ageing analysis of financial assets(a)

$'000

Not past Past due but not impaired due Impaired Carrying and not Less than 1–3 3 months financial amount impaired 1 Month months – 1 year 1–5 years assets 2010 Other receivables (inc Operating Leases) 2,923 2,147 340 291 – 145 (436) 2,923 2,147 340 291 – 145 (436) 2009 Other receivables (inc Operating Leases) 2,601 1,962 503 102 – 34 (137) 2,601 1,962 503 102 – 34 (137)

Note: (a) Ageing analysis of financial assets excludes statutory receivables (e.g. Amounts owing from Victorian Government and GST input tax credit recoverable).

92 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

33 Financial Instruments (Continued)

(e) Liquidity Risk Liquidity risk arises when the Park Victoria is unable to meet its financial obligations as they fall due. Park Victoria operates under the Government fair payments policy of settling financial obligations within 30 days and in the event of a dispute, make payments within 30 days from the date of resolution. It also continuously manages risks through monitoring future cash flows and maturities planning to ensure adequate holding of high quality liquid assets and dealing in highly liquid markets.

Parks Victoria’s exposure to liquidity risk is deemed insignificant based on prior periods’ data and current assessment of risk. Cash for unexpected events is generally sourced from liquidation of available-for-sale financial investments.

The following table discloses the contractual maturity analysis for the Park Victoria’s financial liabilities

Table 33.3: Interest rate exposure and maturity analysis of financial liabilities

Maturity dates $’000 Non Carrying Interest Less than 1–3 3 months amount Bearing 1 month months – 1 year 1–5 years 2010 Amounts payable to other government agencies 3,107 3,107 3,107 – – – Other payables 17,987 17,987 17,987 – – – 21,094 21,094 21,094 – – – 2009 Amounts payable to other government agencies 2,416 2,416 2,416 – – – Other payables 16,839 16,839 16,839 – – – 19,255 19,255 19,255 – – –

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 93 FINANCIAL REPORT

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

33 Financial Instruments (Continued)

(f) Market risk The Park Victoria’s exposures to market risk are primarily through interest rate risk with only insignificant exposure to foreign currency and other price risks. A sensitivity analysis has been prepared for interest rate risks on the return to Parks Victoria. Objectives, policies and processes used to manage each of these risks are disclosed in the paragraphs below.

Table 33.4: Interest rate market risk exposure $’000 Interest rate risk –25 basis point +100 basis points Net Result Net Result Financial assets: 2010 Cash, Deposits & Investments – Based on actual 2009–10 closing balance (241) 965 Carrying amount $96.6M @ 30 June 2010

–100 basis points +100 basis points Financial assets: 2009 Cash, Deposits & Investments – Based on budgeted 2009–10 closing balance (1,017) 1017 Carrying amount $68.6M @ 30 June 2009

Cash, Deposits & investments include Cash and Deposits of $36.6 M and Investments of $60 M, however due to a similar Interest rate on both amounts, the interest rate risk analysis has been applied on the combined total of $96.6 M, on the estimate that the minimum interest rate decrease will be 0.25 % and the maximum increase will be 1% for the 2010/11 financial year.

Foreign currency risk The Park Victoria is exposed to very minor foreign currency risk through its payables relating to purchases of supplies and consumables from overseas. This is because of a limited amount of purchases denominated in foreign currencies and a short timeframe between commitment and settlement.

Interest rate risk Exposure to interest rate risk is not significant. The weighted average cash interest rate earned for 2009–10 was 4.04% (2008–09 4.97%).

(g) Fair value Due to the short-term nature of the current receivables, their carrying value is assumed to approximate their fair value and based on credit history it is expected that the receivables are neither past due nor impaired will be received when due.

The fair values and net fair values of financial assets and financial liabilities are determined as follows:

❚ the fair value of financial assets and financial liabilities with standard terms and conditions and traded in active liquid markets are determined with reference to quoted market prices; and ❚ the fair value of other financial assets and financial liabilities are determined in accordance with generally accepted pricing models based on discounted cash flow analysis.

94 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For The Financial Year Ended 30 June 2010

33 Financial Instruments (Continued)

The carrying values and fair values of financial assets and liabilities at balance date are:

Total carrying amount as per Balance Sheet Aggregate fair value 2010 2009 2010 2009 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Cash and Cash Equivalents 36,543 48,593 36,543 48,593 Receivables 9,615 6,763 9,615 6,763 Other Financial Assets 60,000 20,000 60,000 20,000 Total Financial Assets 106,158 75,356 106,158 75,356 Payables 21,094 19,255 21,094 19,255 Total Financial Liabilities 21,094 19,255 21,094 19,255

34 Committed Funds

2010 $’000 Total funds 96,543

Committed cash and Investments Government asset and initiative funding 30,525 Point Nepean park establishment 23,582 Fire recovery projects 12,975 Other Sponsored Works 30,496 Total committed cash 97,578

These commitments are for complex projects that span greater than one financial year. Parks Victoria receives significant funding in advance from many sources and manages its cash to ensure its capacity to meet immediate financial commitments as they arise.

35 Post Balance Date Events Parks Victoria is unaware of any events subsequent to the reporting date that will have a material impact on its financial position or future financial performance.

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 95 FINANCIAL REPORT

STATUTORY CERTIFICATE

We certify that the attached financial statements for Parks Victoria have been prepared in accordance with Standing Direction 4.2 of the Financial Management Act 1994, applicable Financial Reporting Directions, Australian accounting standards and other mandatory professional reporting requirements.

We further state that, in our opinion, the information set out in the Comprehensive Operating Statement, Balance Sheet, Statement of Changes in Equity, Cash Flow Statement and notes to and forming part of the financial statements, presents fairly the financial transactions during the year ended 30 June 2010 and financial position of Parks Victoria at 30 June 2010.

We are not aware of any circumstance which would render any particulars included in the financial statements to be misleading or inaccurate.

R.Gerrand Chairman

M.Stone Chief Executive

S.Mahony Chief Financial Officer

Dated at Melbourne, 20th August 2010.

96 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 RISK MANAGEMENT ATTESTATION

RISK MANAGEMENT ATTESTATION

I, Rob Gerrand, certify that Parks Victoria has risk management processes consistent with the Australian/ New Zealand Risk Management Standard in place and an internal control system that enables the executive to understand, manage and satisfactorily control risk exposure. The Board verifies this assurance and that the risk profile of Parks Victoria has been critically reviewed within the last 12 months.

R.Gerrand Chairman

Dated at Melbourne, 20th August 2010.

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 97 AUDITOR’S REPORT

98 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 AUDITOR’S REPORT

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 99 APPENDIX 1

DISCLOSURE INDEX

Parks Victoria’s 2009-10 Annual Report is prepared in accordance with all relevant Victorian legislation. This index has been prepared to facilitate identification of the organisation’s compliance with statutory disclosure requirements.

Legislation Requirement Page Charter and purpose FRD22B Manner of establishment and the relevant Minister 7 FRD22B Objectives, functions, powers and duties 8, 44 FRD22B Nature and range of services provided 8, 44 Management and structure FRD22B Organisational structure 11 Financial and other information FRD10 Disclosure index 100 FRD12A Disclosure of major contracts 46 FRD22B Objectives and performance against objectives 47 FRD22B Employment and conduct principles 41 FRD22B Occupational health and safety 42 FRD22B Summary of the financial results for the year 49 FRD22B Significant changes in financial position during the year 49 FRD22B Major changes or factors affecting performance 47 FRD22B Subsequent events 47, 95 FRD22B Application and operation of the Freedom of Information Act 1982 45 FRD22B Compliance with building and maintenance provisions of the Building Act 1993 46 FRD22B Statement on National Competition Policy 46 FRD22B Details of consultancies under $100,000 46 FRD22B Details of consultancies over $100,000 46 FRD22B Statement of availability of information 45 FRD 25 Victorian Industry Participation Policy Disclosure in the Report of Operations 46 FRD29B Workforce Data disclosures 43 SD 4.5.5. Risk management attestation 97 Financial Statements required under Part 7 of FMA SD 4.2 (a) Statement of changes in Equity 54 SD 4.2 (b) Comprehensive Operating Statement 52 SD 4.2 (b) Balance sheet 53 SD 4.2 (b) Cash flows statement 55 Other requirements under Standing Directions SD 4.2(a) Statement of compliance 58 SD 4.2 (d) Rounding of amounts 70 Other disclosures as required by FRDs in notes to the financial statements FRD21A Responsible person and executive officer disclosures 88 FRD103SD Non-current physical assets 77 FRD109 Intangible assets 81 FRD112A Defined benefit superannuation obligations 87 Legislation Freedom of Information Act 1982; Whistleblowers Protection Act 2001; 45 Building Act 1983; Victorian Industry Participation Policy Act 2003; 46 Financial Management Act 1994 96

100 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 NOTES

Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 101 NOTES

102 Parks Victoria - Annual Report 2009-10 SIGNS OF RECOVERY – KINGLAKE NATIONAL PARK

Lyrebird Circuit 2009

Lyrebird Circuit 2010

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