Gippsland Coastal Board Annual Report

2002 - 2003

Presented to the Victorian Coastal Council

Gippsland Coastal Board Annual Report 2002/03

Gippsland Coastal Board Annual Report

2002- 2003

Presented to the Victorian Coastal Council

Gippsland Coastal Board 7 Service Street (PO Box 476) VIC 3875 Ph (03) 51520451 Fax (03) 51520444 [email protected] http://www.gcb.vic.gov.au

Table Of Contents

1 FOREWOOD 1

2 HIGHLIGHTS 1

3 CHAIRPERSON’S REPORT 2

4 BOARD MEMBERSHIP 4

5 BOARD ACTIVITIES (FUNCTIONS UNDER THE ACT) 6

6 STATUTORY REPORT 13

7 BOARD OPERATIONS 14

8 FINANCIAL REPORT 16

9 CHALLENGES AND EMERGING ISSUES 18

Gippsland Coastal Board Annual Report 2002/03

1 Foreword The and Coast Regional Coastal Board was formed under the Coastal Management Act 1995. Under the Act, the Board is required to report to the Victorian Coastal Council by June 30 each year on - a) The status of coastal planning in the region; and b) Implementation in its region of the Victorian Coastal Strategy, Coastal Action Plans, and approved coastal guidelines for the region. In addition to its statutory reporting requirements, the Gippsland Coastal Board has an obligation to inform its numerous stakeholders about its activities over the past year. This Annual Report for the financial year 2002 – 2003 is intended to meet both these objectives.

2 Highlights · The introduction of a representative system in of Marine National Parks and Sanctuaries on 16 November 2003; · Gaining Ministerial approval for the Gippsland Boating Coastal Action Plan – this plan provides for the long term development of recreational boating facilities in Gippsland and includes recommendations and priorities for improving facilities such as boat ramps, moorings, signage and jetties; · Gaining Ministerial approval for the Integrated Coastal Planning for Gippsland Coastal Action Plan – this plan provides for an integrated and consistent approach to coastal planning in Gippsland; · Continuing to upgrade the Board’s web site at www.gcb.vic.gov.au Site usage has continued to grow, with the Beware Reef photo gallery a particular highlight; · Gaining $200,000 of NHT 2 funding to undertake an investigation into the Impact of Climate Change on the Gippsland Coast (to be undertaken in 2003/2004); · Supporting the implementation of the Gippsland Lakes Future Directions and Actions Plan (NRE, 2002), which was released by the Minister for Environment and Conservation in May 2002, as the Government’s response to the Gippsland Lakes Environmental Study (CSIR0, 2001), together with funding of $12.8 million over four years; · Reviewing and revising the Board’s information note series Learn about the Lakes (nine titles) and Learn about the Coasts (17 titles); · Screening two advertisements on WIN TV, in association with the Catchment Management Authority, on catchment health and the Gippsland Lakes; · Reviewing the existing Board’s Business Plan 1999-2002 and preparing the Gippsland Coastal Board Business Plan 2002-2005; · Appointing Chris Barry to the position of Gippsland Lakes Planning Officer, to provide executive support to the Gippsland Lakes Taskforce and to the Gippsland Lakes Coordinating Committee; · Hosting a public meeting at Paynesville to launch the Gippsland Lakes Shore Erosion and Revegetation Strategy (GCB, 2002); · Issuing press releases, conducting media interviews and presenting on key issues to community, school and university students, conferences, workshops and to Boards and Shire Councils; · Completing the NHT funded Local Government “Bush Partnership” Native Vegetation Incentives Program; · Actively participating as a member of the Gippsland Integrated Natural Resources Forum (GINRF); · Completing the term of appointment of the Board; · Continuing to strengthen relationships with Municipalities, Catchment Management Authorities, Parks Victoria, the Department of Sustainability and Environment and the Department of Primary Industries and other Regional organisations.

Gippsland Coastal Board Annual Report 2002/03 1

3 Chairperson’s Report

On behalf of the Gippsland Coastal Board, I have much pleasure in submitting the annual report of the Board to the Victorian Coastal Council. The 2002/2003 year has again been notable for the range of issues considered by the Board and also for the approval by the Minister of two Coastal Action Plans. I am particularly pleased with the manner in which the Board has worked together.

The introduction of a representative system of Marine National Parks and Sanctuaries on 16 November 2002 was a particular highlight. The Board has been an advocate for a comprehensive and representative system of marine parks and sanctuaries throughout the long period of investigation and development of this legislation.

The Board continues to act as a linking mechanism for Agencies, Municipalities, Catchment Management Authorities and other organisations managing coastal matters and members participate in various forums and committees that impact either directly or indirectly on coastal issues. These include the Gippsland Integrated Natural Resources Forum, Gippsland Research Coordination Group, Water for Growth Committee, Gippsland Regional Water Monitoring Committee, Watermark, Gippsland Lakes and Catchment Taskforce and the Gippsland Lakes Coordinating Committee. Additionally each member has links into various organisations that assist the Board with its role.

The approval by the Minister of the Gippsland Boating CAP and the Integrated Coastal Planning for Gippsland CAP is an important milestone for coastal strategic planning in Gippsland. The Gippsland Boating CAP will for the first time give a planning lead for boating amenities, destination enhancement and safety across the whole of the Gippsland coast and the Lakes.

The Integrated Coastal Planning for Gippsland CAP will seek to bring a consistent approach to sustainable coastal planning in the area from San Remo in the west, to the New South Wales border in the east and has involved extensive community and Local Government consultation

The Gippsland Lakes continues to consume a large proportion of the Board’s time. The implementation of the Gippsland Lakes Future Directions and Actions Plan (NRE, 2002), through the strategic overview and coordination of the Gippsland Lakes and Catchment Taskforce and the Gippsland Lakes Coordinating Committee is an excellent example of “integrated natural resource management in action.” The focus must remain on the target of reducing nutrient loads entering the Gippsland Lakes by 40% by 2002.

I am pleased to announce that the Board has been successful in gaining $200,000 of NHT2 funding to undertake an investigation into the Impact of Climate Change on the Gippsland Coast. With predictions of 5-32cm rises by 2050, and 9 to 88cm by 2100, the Board will commission a geomorphological study in 2003/04 to model what effects this may have on parts of our fragile coastline. This information is vital if we are to properly plan for future coastal activities and developments.

With such a diversity of coastline, the Board has chosen to meet at a range of locations from in the east to Tarwin Lower in the west. Field inspections are an important part of Board business and my thanks go to the various staff members from other organisations that have assisted with facilitating and information sharing during these site visits. Thank you also to those staff members from other organisations that have made presentations to Board meetings during the year.

Gippsland Coastal Board Annual Report 2002/03 2

Finally my thanks to all Board members for successfully completing their three year term and for their intense and committed contributions during the year. Welcome to Chris Barry in his role as Gippsland Lakes Planning Officer and also, my thanks to Andrew Buckley, Executive Officer and to Sheree Pettman, Executive Assistant for their commitment and professionalism in the conduct of Board business.

Duncan Malcolm Chairperson

Gippsland Coastal Board Annual Report 2002/03 3

4 Board Membership

CHAIRPERSON Duncan Malcolm Duncan Malcolm is a long term Boisdale resident with a strong interest in natural resource management. Duncan had eleven years experience with the Rural Water Corporation as its Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson. He was a Commissioner with the East Gippsland Shire, and was the former Chairperson of the East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority and first appointed Gippsland Coastal Board. Current chairperson positions held by Duncan include the National Board of the Irrigation Association of Australia, the Geospatial Science Initiative, Industry Advisory Board (RMIT University), National Irrigation Science Network and Lakes and Wilderness Tourism. Duncan is also a Justice of the Peace, and a member of the Victorian Environment Assessment Council (VEAC) and the Victorian Coastal Council (VCC). COMMUNITY REPRESENTATIVES John Bate John Bate has had a long and continuous involvement with coastal management issues, focusing on the Gippsland Lakes. While currently a resident of , John regularly spends time at Metung on the Gippsland Lakes. He has professional qualifications in engineering and worked for the former Gas & Fuel Corporation for over 15 years. He currently works in the financial management profession. John was appointed to the Gippsland Lakes Management Council in December 1993 and has been a member of the Gippsland Coastal Board since 1996. He is also Vice Chairman of Trust for Nature (Victoria), formerly the Victorian Conservation Trust. Ailsa Buxton Ailsa Buxton, formerly a member of the Gippsland Lakes Management Council, has been a member of the Gippsland Coastal Board since 1996. Ailsa was a member of the former Wellington Salinity Group, which was implementing the Lake Wellington Catchment Salinity Management Plan and the Macalister Irrigation District Nutrient Reduction Plan. Ailsa is a Waterwatch volunteer and has been since 1994. She is a member of a Stratford farming family, a Landcare group member and belongs to the Country Women’s Association of Victoria. Loretta Hambly Loretta Hambly brings extensive experience in the area of policy development and strategic planning to the Gippsland Coastal Board. Loretta has a diverse background including the public, private, education and community sectors and is currently employed as Director, Strategic Planning in the office of the Pro Vice Chancellor, Monash University, Gippsland Campus. Loretta lives at Inverloch and has been involved with the Inverloch Residents and Ratepayers Association. Fred Herbert Fred Herbert is a long time Metung resident and owner/director of one of Australia’s foremost boating holiday companies “Riviera Nautic” and brings important experience in tourism and management to the Board. Fred has qualifications in engineering and business administration, is a current Board member of the Country Victorian Tourism Council and a past member of the Lakes and Wilderness Tourism Board, the Gippsland Lakes Management Council, Victorian Eastern Development Association, the first appointed Gippsland Coastal Board and the Victorian Coastal Council. Andrew Martin Andrew Martin is a Chartered Accountant based in Nicholson and operates throughout the Gippsland Region. Andrew has a detailed knowledge of recreational fishing issues and is currently President of the Gippsland Angling Clubs Association Inc. Andrew is a strong advocate for improving the environmental health of Gippsland’s rivers, lakes, estuaries and marine waters. Howard Emanuel Howard Emanuel is a coastal enthusiast with a long history of involvement with Victorian coastal issues, including broader social and economic issues. Previously employed as a coastal Ranger, Howard was the inaugural President of the Sandy Point/Shallow Inlet Coast Action Group and is a keen coastal birdwatcher, walker and surfer. Howard currently resides at Sandy Point.

Gippsland Coastal Board Annual Report 2002/03 4

Neil Taylor Neil Taylor is a social care clinician and consultant of many years experience, both in Victoria and internationally. A broker and convenor of groups such as the Environment Monitoring Network and the “Wilsons Prom Coalition,” he is a member of the Wilsons Promontory National Park Advisory Group and was heavily involved in the campaign and brokerage for the Victorian Marine Parks and Sanctuaries “suite.” Neil comes from a generational family background of mariners, anglers and commercial fishers and is himself a keen bushwalker and recreational fisherman. Neil possesses highly developed networks in both Gippsland and Victoria and has detailed knowledge of Gippsland’s coastal land and marine environments. Neil’s special interests are National Parks, Aboriginal history and archaeology and he lives at Woolamai.

Jeanette Severs Jeanette Severs is a member of the Victorian Board of Greening Australia, the Deputy Chair of the South East Australian Landcare Forum, a member of the Tambo Nicholson River Management Group of the East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority and holds a position with the Victorian Women in Agriculture and Resource Management register (VicWARM). Jeanette is a community leader within Gippsland and more widely across Victoria through her involvement with women’s issues, natural resource management and community affairs. Jeanette currently resides at Johnsonville.

NOMINEES Tony Edgar – Department Of Natural Resources and Environment/Department of Sustainability and Environment Tony Edgar is Regional Manager, Gippsland for the Department of Natural Resources and Environment. Tony is a forester by training and has spent a large part of his career working in fire and forest management in many areas throughout Victoria, most recently in Benalla and Mildura. Tony is also a member of the Catchment Management Authority, was a member of the first appointed Coastal Board and lives in Traralgon. Alan Freitag – Department of Infrastructure/Department of Sustainability and Environment Alan Freitag is Manager, Eastern Region for the Department of Infrastructure. Qualified in urban and regional planning, Alan possesses extensive experience in town planning and related fields with employment in both Local and State Government and in the private sector. Alan lives in Sale. Stuart Ord – Parks Victoria Stuart Ord was appointed to the position of Regional Manager, Cities and Bays, Parks Victoria during the year and was unable to continue his Board role. Ian Christie, Manager, Eastern Region, Parks Victoria acted in Stuart’s role and brings a strong background in National Park, forest and fire management to the Gippsland Coastal Board. Ian resides in Melbourne.

Gippsland Coastal Board Annual Report 2002/03 5

5 Board Activities (Functions under the Act)

(a) Development of Coastal Action Plans

Gippsland Boating Coastal Action Plan The Gippsland Boating Coastal Action Plan provides for the long-term development of recreational boating facilities in Gippsland and includes recommendations and priorities for improving facilities such as boat ramps, moorings, signage and jetties.

This Coastal Action Plan was prepared under the provisions of the Coastal Management Act 1995 and was approved by the Minister for Conservation and Environment, the Hon Sherryl Garbutt MP in September 2002.

Following approval, the Coastal Action Plan was widely distributed to agencies, Municipal Councils, recreational boating and fishing clubs, tourism and other coastal groups and to interested members of the public. Presentations on the plan were made to Shire Councils and to agency staff. The Gippsland Boating Coastal Action Plan is available on the Board’s web site at www.gcb.vic.gov.au

Integrated Coastal Planning for Gippsland – Coastal Action Plan The Gippsland Integrated Coastal Planning Project commenced in 1999 and was funded by the Commonwealth Coastal and Marine Planning Program (CMPP). Following the completion of a series of Project Technical Papers in March 2000, a Discussion Paper, “The Gippsland Coast: Planning for the Future” was prepared and advertised for public comment in July 2000. Following consideration of submissions, the Draft Integrated Coastal Planning for Gippsland Coastal Action Plan was prepared and placed on public exhibition in July 2001. The Integrated Coastal Planning for Gippsland Coastal Action Plan discusses major coastal policy issues, provides policy direction, identifies key actions and provides the basis for achieving integrated decisions and consistent planning outcomes by outlining a Regional Coastal Policy for Local Government in Gippsland. This Coastal Action Plan was prepared under the provisions of the Coastal Management Act 1995 and was approved by the Minister for Conservation and Environment, the Hon Sherryl Garbutt MP in September 2002. Following approval, the Coastal Action Plan was widely distributed to agencies, Municipal Councils, and to other groups and individuals with an interest in the coast. The Integrated Coastal Planning for Gippsland Coastal Action Plan is available on the Board’s web site at www.gcb.vic.gov.au The Gippsland Coastal Mapping Project, which involved the production of high quality maps at a variety of scales (1:10,000, 1:25,000 and 1:100,000) in both CD and plan format, had been completed the previous year. Base layers, environmental layers and land management layers are included and the mapping was distributed to all coastal management agencies in Gippsland.

(b) Provision of Advice to the Minister

The Board provided the following advice to the Minister: · Gippsland Boating Coastal Action Plan (for approval) · Integrated Coastal Planning for Gippsland Coastal Action Plan (for approval) · Gippsland Lakes Shore Erosion and Revegetation Strategy The Board provided separate advice to the Minister on the following topics: · Responsibility for Public Flood Warning Systems · Disregard for Planning Process – Riverbank Works at proposed Nerana Resort and Marina, Nicholson · Marine State Emblem · Appointment to the Gippsland Coastal Board (vacancy for agency representative)

Gippsland Coastal Board Annual Report 2002/03 6

· and Estuary Issues

(c) Provision of Advice to the Council

The Gippsland Coastal Board provided copies of the above Ministerial correspondence to the Victorian Coastal Council and provided additional advice on the following issues: · Victorian Coastal Strategy – Implementation and Reporting · Key Gippsland Coastal issues · A Framework for a National Cooperative Approach to Coastal Issues · Copies of submissions on a range of planning processes (see (d) and (e) below).

(d) Preparation of Guidelines for Coastal Planning and Management

The Board completed the Gippsland Lakes Shore Erosion and Revegetation Strategy (GCB, 2002). This Strategy is an important study on the Gippsland Lakes and provides a large body of data on shoreline erosion. Recommendations and priorities for response by managing agencies are clearly identified. The Strategy was circulated to key agencies and was launched at a public meeting at Paynesville in October. The Strategy is available on CDRom and on the Board’s web site at www.gcb.vic.gov.au The issue of the impact of predicted climate change and sea level rise on the Gippsland Lakes was addressed in an appendix to the Strategy, written by Dr Eric Bird. The Board continues to advise management Agencies that all management plans should be written in conformity with the requirements in the Victorian Coastal Management Act 1995.

(e) The Facilitation of Local Public Awareness, Consultation and Implementation of the Victorian Coastal Strategy, Coastal Action Plans and approved Coastal Guidelines

Community Trust The Board maintains strong links with Watermark Inc., with Duncan Malcolm participating as Chairperson of Watermark. Watermark’s key purpose is to increase understanding and facilitate community action to improve the Gippsland Lakes and catchment, and to promote sustainable production.

Public Meeting - Gippsland Lakes Shore Erosion and Revegetation Strategy The Strategy was launched at a public meeting at Paynesville on 18 October 2002.

Web Site The Board’s web site is located at www.gcb.vic.gov.au and is regularly updated. Site usage continues to grow, with the Beware Reef photo gallery a particular highlight.

Gippsland Television The Board, in association with the East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority and WIN TV, screened two advertisements on WIN TV on catchment health and the Gippsland Lakes. Advertisements promoting the Gippsland Lakes Boat Sewage and Pump-out Network were also screened during the year on Gippsland commercial TV networks.

Gippsland Coastal Board Annual Report 2002/03 7

Contributing to Integrated Coastal and Catchment Planning The Board was represented on a wide range of Regional steering committees or forums including: Gippsland Lakes Taskforce (Chairperson) Water for Growth Committee (Chairperson) Gippsland Research Coordination Committee (Chairperson) Thomson/Macalister Taskforce (Chairperson) Gippsland Regional Water Monitoring Partnership (Chairperson) East and West Gippsland Regional Catchment Strategy (Chairperson) Gippsland Integrated Natural Resources Forum (Executive – Chairperson, Reference Group – EO) Gippsland Lakes Coordinating Committee (EO) East Gippsland Water Quality Management Plan (EO) Avon River Stream Flow Management Plan (EO) Macleod Morass/Jones Bay State Wildlife Reserve Management Plan (EO) West Gippsland Regional Catchment Strategy (EO) Gippsland Lakes Flood Modelling Project (EO) Bald Hills Wind Farm Technical Reference Group (EO) “Mississippi Link to Lakes Entrance” Recreational Trail Project (Board member) Lake Coleman Water/Salt Budget and Lake Reeve Water Budget Project (GLPO)

Submissions The Board made submissions to the following planning processes: Draft South East Regional Marine Plan Discussion Paper (National Oceans Office) Inquiry into the Management of the Fishing Charter Industry in Victoria (Environment and Natural Resources Committee, Parliament of Victoria) EPA Works Approval and Licence Application No WA49419 – Intermittent Discharge of Water from the Benambra Mine Tailings Dam Draft Avon River Streamflow Management Plan (Southern Rural Water) Wellington Waters Environment Effects Statement – Terms of Reference (DoI) Issues and Exposure Draft – West Gippsland Catchment Management Strategy (WGCMA) Issues – Draft East Gippsland Catchment Management Strategy (EGCMA) Victorian Bushfire Inquiry East Gippsland Planning Scheme Amendment C19 and Planning Permit Application No 02/00465/DA, Subdivision and Marina (EGSC) Macleod Morass and Jones Bay Wildlife Reserves Draft Management Plan (PV)

Gippsland Coastal Board Annual Report 2002/03 8

Board Meetings The Gippsland Coastal Board has continued its policy of rotating meeting venues and site visits throughout the region, and inviting local community and Agency representatives to attend as observers or contributors wherever possible. Meeting locations, guests and special discussion topics are listed below.

GIPPSLAND COASTAL BOARD MEETINGS 2002/03 MEETING LOCATION GUESTS TOPICS July 2002 Traralgon Eric Sjerp (Crossco Gippsland Lakes Shore Erosion and (No 69) (WGCMA) Environmental Consultants) Revegetation Strategy August Traralgon Assoc. Professor Rodger The AEAM Model – A Tool for 2002 (DNRE) Grayson (University of Investigating Broad-scale Nutrient (No 70) Melbourne) and Sediment Sources from the Catchments of the Gippsland Lakes September Traralgon Russell Broomhall (EGCMA), Waterwatch – Estuarine Water 2002 (DNRE) Joanne Hand (EGCMA), David Quality Monitoring (No 71) Meikle (WGCMA) October Bald Hills, Stephen Buckle (Wind Power Proposed Bald Hills Wind Farm 2002 Tarwin Lower P/L) (No 72) November2 Traralgon Rex Candy (EGCMA), Assoc Gippsland Lakes Flood Modelling 002 (DNRE) Professor Rodger Grayson Project (No 73) (University of Melbourne) December Traralgon Fiona Chandler (WCB), Dr Julie Estuary Coastal Action Plans 2002 (DSE) Mondon (Deakin University), (No 74) Professor John Sherwood (Deakin University) Alison Stone (DSE) DSE Coasts - New Directions January Traralgon Don Hough (DSE) Introduced Marine Pests 2003 (DSE) John Ginivan (VCC) Acid Sulfate Soils (No 75) February Port Neville Clarke (CIFHA), Wayne Corner Inlet Issues 2003 Welshpool, Cripps, Geoff Hocking (No 76) Corner Inlet (WGCMA), Geoff Kohlman (GP), (boat trip) Llew Vale (SGW) March 2003 Traralgon No guests (No 77) (DSE)

April 2003 Traralgon Rebecca Price (DSE) Projects to Improve Coastal (No 78) (DSE) Planning and Management May 2003 Bairnsdale (No 79) (DPI) Lake Tyers Jack Whadcoat, Bob Whadcoat, Estuary Issues (boat trip) Bob Fisher (PV), Joe Stephens (PV) Estuary Issues Corringle, Mike Irvine (PV) Marlo and Cape Conran

Gippsland Coastal Board Annual Report 2002/03 9

June 2003 Traralgon Jenny Jelbart (GW), Rod Proposed Soil Treatment Facility, (No 80) (DSE) McLellan (DSE) Dutson Downs Richard Aldous & Kath Hill (DPI) Subsidence and Benambra Mine

Publications In the 2002/03 reporting period, the Gippsland Coastal Board produced the following publications:

PUBLICATION CIRCULATION COMMENTS Various existing Board As requested Available in pdf format on the publications Board’s web site at www.gcb.vic.gov.au

Integrated Coastal Planning for Key stakeholders and the general Approved by the Minister Gippsland – Coastal Action Plan public – approx 700 copies distributed; Web site

Gippsland Boating Coastal Key stakeholders and the general Approved by the Minister Action Plan public – approx 700 copies distributed; Web site

Gippsland Lakes Shore Erosion Limited distribution of hard copy and Revegetation Strategy and CDRom to management agencies; Web site

Pamphlet “Protecting the Key stakeholders, jetty licence Revised brochure advertising the Gippsland Lakes – A nationally holders and the general public; Gippsland Lakes boat sewage recognised boat sewage pump- Web site pump-out and hopper system out system”

Coastal and Lakes Information Schools, tertiary students, general Photocopies of sheets prepared in sheets public; Web site earlier years (note, the revised series, “Learn about the Lakes” and “Learn about the Coast” were printed and distributed in 2003/04)

Media Releases During the year, the Board made six press releases. The subjects covered included: · Blue-green algae in the Gippsland Lakes area (2) · Climate Change Study, Launch of Two Coastal Action Plans, Release of Gippsland Lakes Erosion Study, Support for Seaweek All media releases are posted on the Board’s web site. The Board received widespread coverage in newspaper and on television and radio.

Leading debate Members of the Board and staff have attended conferences, workshops and public forums over the year, and have taken these opportunities to present and discuss a number of issues affecting the Gippsland Lakes and coast. Some of the topics promoted have been: · Gippsland Lakes water quality Issues · Integrated coastal planning · Marine Parks and Sanctuaries · The possibility of land subsidence occurring along the Gippsland coast · Recreational boating issues · The impact of climate change on the Gippsland coast.

Gippsland Coastal Board Annual Report 2002/03 10

(f) To Encourage the Co-operation of Government Departments, Municipalities, Public Authorities, Industry and Community Groups in the Planning, Management and Implementation of Strategic Solutions for the Region’s Coast Board members and staff have continued their efforts to create and maintain strong links with regional authorities and the general public, particularly regarding strategic planning issues. Two inter-agency forums meet to provide links at officer levels. One forum covers , the other East Gippsland. The Board’s active participation in four important regional forums is highlighted: · Gippsland Integrated Natural Resources Forum · Gippsland Lakes and Catchment Taskforce · Gippsland Lakes Coordinating Committee · Gippsland Regional Water Monitoring Partnership

Funding Applications

1. National Heritage Trust (NHT 2)

The funding application for the project “Sea Level Change Implications for the Gippsland Coast” was successful ($200,00).

A funding application ($30,000) was made for the project “Environmental Audit of Corner Inlet.”

2. Gippsland Lakes Future Directions and Actions Plan (NRE, 2002)

The following projects were successful in attracting funding under Gippsland Lakes Future Directions and Actions Plan implementation: * Second Entrance Assessment – Assessment of Projected Physical and Chemical Changes ($75,000) * Second Entrance Evaluation – Assessment of Ecological Impacts ($170,000) * Lake Processes – Verification of CSIRO Model/Vertical Mixing ($45,000) * Development and Delivery of Reporting on Gippsland Lakes Catchment ($100,000) * Initiative Coordination ($130,000)

However, due to a number of reasons including staff commitment to summer wildfires, most projects did not commence during the financial year.

Management of Algal Blooms

The Gippsland Coastal Board, as successor to the former Gippsland Lakes Implementation Committee, is responsible for coordinating responses to Blue-green algal blooms that affect the Gippsland Lakes. The Department of Sustainability and Environment is responsible for preparing and implementing the Emergency Response Plan, and the Board coordinates the activities of the Department and other bodies with direct management roles. The Board also manages the communication component, particularly contact with the media and the issuing of consistent and considered public information. Fortunately, there were only localised occurrences of Blue-green algae during the year at Macleod Morass, the backwater and lower Forge Creek. The broader Gippsland Lakes was unaffected.

Gippsland Coastal Board Annual Report 2002/03 11

6 Statutory Report

(a) Status of Coastal Planning in the Region

Municipal Planning Schemes Statutory review of the South Gippsland, East Gippsland and Wellington Planning Schemes occurred during 2002/03.

Planning on Crown Land The following Plans were processed during the year: PLANNING AGENCY STATUS AS AT 30 JUNE DOCUMENT 2003

Mallacoota Foreshore East Gippsland Shire Council, Council approved; Submission to Management Plan Gippsland Ports, Parks Victoria, Minister pending DSE

Gabo Island Management Parks Victoria Draft in preparation Plan

Cape Conran Coastal Park Parks Victoria Draft in preparation and due for Management Plan public exhibition in late 2003

Master Plan for Marine East Gippsland Shire Council, Draft in preparation Facilities and Water Use in Gippsland Ports, DSE North Arm, Lakes Entrance

Metung and Mosquito Point East Gippsland Shire Council, DSE Council approved; Submission to Foreshores Management the Minister pending Plan

Macleod Morass & Jones Parks Victoria Draft under review following public Bay State Wildlife Reserve exhibition Management Plan

Lake Wellington Wetlands Parks Victoria Redraft (of 1997 draft) in Management Plan preparation

Port Welshpool Master Plan Council, Completed and adopted by and Development Opportunity Tourism Victoria Wellington Shire Council Study

Cape Liptrap Coastal Park Parks Victoria Approved by Minister Management Plan

Gippsland Lakes Ramsar Parks Victoria Approved by Minister Site Strategic Management Plan

Gippsland Boating Coastal Gippsland Coastal Board Approved by Minister Action Plan

Integrated Coastal Planning Gippsland Coastal Board Approved by Minister for Gippsland – Coastal Action Plan

Gippsland Lakes Shore Gippsland Coastal Board Adopted by the Board Erosion and Revegetation Strategy

Gippsland Coastal Board Annual Report 2002/03 12

Planning in the Coastal and Marine Environment The National Oceans Office (Commonwealth Government) continued to develop the South East Region Marine Plan (SERMP). This plan deals with marine and fisheries issues in Commonwealth waters.

(b) Implementation in the Region of the Victorian Coastal Strategy, Coastal Action Plans and Approved Coastal Guidelines for the Region.

This year has seen significant developments in strategic coastal planning at both a State and regional level. The Victorian Coastal Council has developed a framework to report on the implementation of the Victorian Coastal Strategy (VCC, 2002) and Coastal Management Act 1995. The aim of this reporting is to establish and record advances in integrated coastal management throughout the State and identify issues where further effort is required, and to assess the implementation of the Victorian Coastal Strategy.

The completion of the Integrated Coastal Planning for Gippsland Coastal Action Plan and the Gippsland Boating Coastal Action Plan resulted in the completion of a range of key actions in the Victorian Coastal Strategy for which the Board was responsible.

A major focus of the Board has been participation in the review and development of Regional Catchment Strategies (RCSs) by both the East and West Gippsland Catchment Management Authorities. The scope of RCSs has been broadened to be inclusive of coastal and marine issues and management. This has been further reinforced with the new Commonwealth Natural Heritage Trust 2 guidelines, linking Commonwealth funding for coastal management to RCSs. The outcome has been considerable effort by all stakeholders and Catchment Management Authorities to begin to develop an understanding of catchment to coastal to ocean management issues.

The implementation of the Gippsland Lakes Future Directions and Actions Plan (NRE, 2002), through the strategic overview and co-ordination by the Gippsland Lakes and Catchment Taskforce and the Gippsland Lakes Coordinating Committee is an excellent example of “integrated natural resource management in action.” The overall objective is to improve water quality in the Gippsland Lakes by implementing the findings of the Gippsland Lakes Environmental Study (CSIRO, 2001) and the identified target is to reduce nutrient loads entering the Gippsland Lakes by 40% by 2022. A separate Annual Report will be prepared by the Taskforce.

A review of the implementation of actions from the Gippsland Lakes Coastal Action Plan (GCB, 1999) was undertaken by the Board in May 2002. Of the 211 actions identified in the plan, 137 or 65 % were reported as on-going, completed or commenced.

Gippsland Coastal Board Annual Report 2002/03 13

7 Board Operations

(a) Administration Address: 7 Service Street (PO Box 476), Bairnsdale, 3875 Phone: 03 51520451 Fax: 03 51520444 E-mail: [email protected] Web Site: http://www.gcb.vic.gov.au

Chairperson: Duncan Malcolm Executive Officer: Andrew Buckley Gippsland Lakes Planning Officer: Chris Barry Executive Assistant: Sheree Pettman Casual Administrative Assistance: Glenda Lind

The Executive Officer is responsible for managing the office and staff. Operations are managed in accordance with Department of Sustainability and Environment procedures and guidelines for expenditure, purchasing, reporting, occupational health and safety and industrial relations and related issues.

(b) Statement of Pecuniary Interests All members of the Board have completed declarations of pecuniary interests for the current reporting period including details of shares held by members. The Portfolio Management Division of the Department of Sustainability and Environment holds declarations that have been made by members on behalf of the Minister. All declarations are confidential.

Declarations of pecuniary interest in relation to agenda items are made as required by members and are noted in the minutes of the meeting.

(c) Consultancies No consultancies, as defined by the Department of Treasury and Finance, were engaged on behalf of the Board during 2002-03.

(d) National Competition Policy The Board adheres to the principles of the National Competition Policy (NCP) to ensure that any business competition with private entities takes place in an environment where the Board has no competitive advantages. Obligations under NCP are the responsibility of the Portfolio Division of the Department of Sustainability and Environment.

(e) Freedom of Information (FoI) The Board operates in accordance with FoI procedures established through the Department of Sustainability and Environment. No FoI requests were made to the Board in the reporting period.

(f) Merit and Equity Victorian Public Service merit and equity principles are applied in the appointment and management of staff. The Board follows the merit and equity principles used by the Department of Sustainability and Envi ronment in accordance with Government directives.

(g) Women, Youth and Indigenous Affairs The Board is committed to involving Victoria’s community, including women, youth and indigenous Victorian’s in the management and enjoyment of the coast. The Victorian Coastal Strategy identifies actions to implement indigenous cultural outcomes. Gippsland Coastal Board Annual Report 2002/03 14

(h) Whistleblowers Protection Act The Whistleblowers Protection Act 2001 came into effect on 1 January 2002. The Act is designed to protect people who disclose information about serious wrongdoing within the Victorian Public Sector and to provide a framework for the investigation of these matters.

The protected disclosure coordinator for the Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) acts as an agent for the Board to receive disclosures under the Act, and applies DSE procedures in managing disclosures.

Disclosures of improper conduct by the Board or its employees may be made to the following: Ms Diedre Egan, Protected Disclosure Coordinator DSE, GPO Box 500, East Melbourne, Victoria, 3002 Telephone: 03 9637 8575 Facsimile: 03 9637 8129 Email: [email protected]

The Ombudsman Level 22, 459 Collins Street, Melbourne, Victoria, 3000 Telephone: 03 9613 6222 Toll free: 1800 806 314

Gippsland Coastal Board Annual Report 2002/03 15

8 Financial Report

The Board’s recurrent funding is allocated by the Department of Sustainability and Environment. Additional funding for capital and project work is subject to successful bids to State or Commonwealth Government processes. The Board is not an incorporated body and audit and financial requirements are met through the Department of Sustainability and Environment. 1. Recurrent Funding Gippsland Coastal Board Expenditure 2002/2003

ITEM BUDGET EXPENDITURE

OPERATIONAL Staff Costs $112,328 $118,556 Agency Labour Hire $500 $0 Contract Service $3,000 $3,308 Postal Expenses $1,000 $1,042 Mobile Phone $1,000 $1,308 Printing and Stationery $1,000 $1,847 Minor Incidentals $1,000 $3,363 Meeting Related Light Meals $0 $1,834 Computer Leasing $3,200 $6,863 Vehicle Hire – DSE $7,832 $8,057 Board Fees $25,000 $28,231 Personal Expenses $1,000 $2,379 Vehicle/km Payment $12,500 $15,112 Boat Hire $0 $1,500 Inventory and Supplies Purchase $2,000 $1,511 IT Licences and SOE $8,800 $6,962 DSE On-costs $40,177 $41,730

OPERATIONAL SUB-TOTAL $220,337 $243,666 Indirect Operating Charge & Recoup -$23,000 TOTAL FUNDS/EXPENDITURE $220,337 $220,666

Additional salaries & on-costs re-direction $9,681 (fire charges) OPENING BUDGET $230,017

Gippsland Coastal Board Annual Report 2002/03 16

2. Gippsland Lakes Future Directions and Actions Plan Implementation Funding

PROJECT BUDGET 02/03 EXPENDITURE 02/03 CARRY FORWARD TO 03/04** Planning and Evaluation $125,521 $112,190 $0 Reporting Framework $50,000* $0 $50,000 N & P Monitoring $10,000* $10,000 $0 (Lower Latrobe R) Second Entrance $37,000* $0 $37,000 Assessment (Physical and Chemical Impacts) Second Entrance $85,000* $0 $85,000 Assessment (Ecological Impacts) CSIRO Model $22,000* $0 $22,000 Verification * full budget allocations **subject to approval not loaded

3. Other Funding Trust Fund Brought Forward Transfers or Expenditure Carry Forward to Balance from Grants 02/03 03/04 01/02 General Trust $53,992 $0 $51,449 $2,543 Fund – Incl NHT Bush Partnership Project CSIRO Gippsland $14,859 $5,000 $5,000 $14,857 Lakes Project Trust Fund Boat Sewage $27,112 $0 $16,938 $10,174 Pump-out & Composting Toilet Trust Fund Coastal and $31,437 $10,000 $28,161 $13,277 Marine Planning Trust Fund NHT Bush $30,188 $0 $27,809 $2,379 (to NHT) Partnership Project NHT Bush $0 $38,100 $26,345 $11,754 (to NHT) Partnership Project

Gippsland Coastal Board Annual Report 2002/03 17

9 Challenges and Emerging Issues

Implementation of Coastal Action Plans A challenge for the Board is to ensure that outstanding actions listed in the Gippsland Lakes Coastal Action Plan are carried out effectively. It is also important that the actions identified in both the Gippsland Boating Coastal Action Plan and the Integrated Coastal Planning for Gippsland Coastal Action Plan are understood and implemented by partner agencies.

Implementation of the Gippsland Lakes Future Directions and Actions Plan (NRE, 2002) The Gippsland Lakes Environmental Study (CSIRO, 2001) identified nutrient reduction as the key strategic direction to pursue in improving the health of the Gippsland Lakes and provided scientific support for further investigation of a second entrance option. The Government has responded with the Gippsland Lakes Future Directions and Actions Plan (NRE, 2002) and has allocated funding of $12.8 million over four years. The Board has a central role in coordination. Successful implementation is critical, together with broad community recognition of the issues and the need for community contribution towards actions that support nutrient reduction.

Stakeholder Expectations There are continuing pressures for the Board to become involved in a range of activities, some of which may not be central to the Board’s objectives, and for which the Board is not resourced. A review of the Board’s Business Plan 2002-2005 will be undertaken in early 2004. The issue of adequate recurrent funding for the Board’s operation remains an issue of concern.

Coastal Subsidence To date, the Board has had modest success in promoting wider community debate on the potential for ground subsidence along the coast. Although a difficult and contentious subject, the Board will continue in its efforts to raise community awareness, and to make more information available from the responsible agencies.

Sea Level Rise Global warming is predicted to cause sea level rise resulting from thermal expansion of the oceans and melting of ice sheets. Global sea level is predicted to rise in the order of 3cm to 14cm for the period 1990 to 2025; 5cm to 32cm for the 50 year period to 2050; and between 9cm and 88cm for the hundred year period up to 2100 (IPCC, 2001). The Board will commission investigations on the effect of sea level rise (and potential subsidence) on the Gippsland coast, including coastal geomorphology, coastal processes, shoreline inundation/flooding and impact on private and public physical assets.

Wind Farms and Urban Development Pressures

Demand for coastal wind resources and land by the wind power industry and for coastal urban development opportunities is increasing. Both sectors have particular requirements and are likely to challenge coastal policy at a Municipal, Regional and Statewide level in the near future. Conflict with local communities will be inevitable.

Gippsland Coastal Board Annual Report 2002/03 18

Gippsland Coastal Board Annual Report 2002/03 19