Acknowledgement of Country Privacy Definitions Aboriginal people, through their rich culture, Parks Victoria is committed to protecting ‘Parks’ – Parks Victoria manages many sites such have been connected to the land and sea, for privacy and personally identifiable information as piers, waterways, ports, bays, historic tens of thousands of years. by meeting our responsibilities under the building, trails, urban parks, small conservation Parks Victoria respectfully acknowledges Victorian Privacy Act 1988 and the Australian reserves, and large national and state parks. For Aboriginal Traditional Owners, their culture Privacy Principles 2014. the sake of brevity, these are collectively and knowledge, their continuing connections, For the purposes of community engagement for referred to as ‘parks’, unless a specific type of and cultural obligation, to care for their this project, we have collected personal site is stated. Country. information from individuals, such as email addresses, contact details, demographic data ‘Community’ – Community is a broad term used and feedback. This information is stored on to describe residents, visitors, groups and secure servers for the duration of our project. businesses who have an interest in a project or Comments provided through submissions area. A community may be defined by a marked ‘confidential’ may be used in this geographic location, a set of similar interests report, however are not attributable to any such as an industry or sporting club, or a shared individuals. Diligence is taken to ensure any sense of identity such as a culture or a comment or sensitive information does not generation. become personally identifiable in our reporting. ‘Stakeholder’ – Stakeholders are those individuals and organisations who will be directly affected by the plan. Examples include Community engagement local governments, other government

Unless otherwise stated, all feedback departments and agencies, and local industries documented in this report was written or such as tourism. recorded during our consultation process, and the views expressed are those of participants, ‘Engagement’ – Engagement refers to a planned and not the views of facilitators and staff. process involving two-way dialogue with the Parks Victoria staff, together with our partners, specific purpose of working with communities have taken great care while transcribing and stakeholders to encourage discussion or participant feedback. We are confident that we active involvement to inform a project decision. have captured the full range of ideas, concerns

and views expressed during consultation. ‘Participant’ – Participant refers to any community member, stakeholder or organisation that participated in the

engagement process by providing feedback through any of the engagement tools and techniques provided.

Authorised and published by Parks Victoria Level 10, 535 Bourke Street, Melbourne VIC 3000 Copyright © Parks Victoria 2018

Cover image: Gibson Steps Beach, Twelve Apostles Marine National Park

Shipwreck Coast Master Plan – Stage One | Engagement Summary

Contents 1. INTRODUCTION ...... 5 2. PARTICIPATION AND DEMOGRAPHICS ...... 6 3. KEY FINDINGS ...... 9 PART 1: THE PORT CAMPBELL CREEK PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE ...... 9 PART 2: THE BLOWHOLE LOOKOUT ...... 12 PART 3: THE SADDLE LOOKOUT ...... 15 4. NEXT STEPS ...... 18

Shipwreck Coast Master Plan – Stage One | Engagement Summary

Before reading this • The collation of data, analysis and summary contained within this report has been undertaken by an independent contractor, Capire, specialising report in community engagement practice and analysis, and provided to Parks Several factors influenced the Victoria. analysis of this data and should be • The information presented within this report is a collation of the considered in reading this report. feedback collected from community and stakeholder participants and These include: does not necessarily reflect the views of a statistically representative sample of community. • This report summarises key feedback from participants and does not preclude the project team from reviewing community feedback – particularly the more in-depth or specific submissions. • Comments from individuals have been combined or split out based on the content included and the number of separate points, opinions or advice presented. • The information and views presented in this report are a summary of the opinions, perceptions and advice provided across the engagement period. As such, recommendations and advice presented within this report may be factually incorrect and will need to be verified by the project team for feasibility. • Due to the variety of formats through which community feedback was received, not all participant demographics have been captured across all feedback. • Participants did not have to respond to all sections of the survey, as such, feedback may focus on certain aspects of the plan, and on certain theme areas.

Shipwreck Coast Master Plan – Stage One | Engagement Summary 1. Introduction

The Vision of the Project background Shipwreck Coast Master Parks Victoria, in partnership with Traditional Owners, has commenced Stage Plan is to enhance the One implementation of the Shipwreck Coast Master Plan which includes the Shipwreck Coast as a design and construction of new lookouts at The Saddle, Twelve Apostles and The Blowhole, Loch Ard precinct in Port Campbell National Park, and a distinctive, cultural and pedestrian bridge across Port Campbell Creek in Port Campbell. Parks Victoria remarkable world-class is partnering with Traditional Owners, Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation, destination, underpinned and working in close association with project partners including local and state by the character of its government, to develop the three projects. hinterland and local Through an extensive Request for Tender process, Parks Victoria recently appointed architects Denton Corker Marshall (in partnership with landscape towns coupled with the architects McGregor Coxall and Arup) to design the three infrastructure conservation and projects. protection of its national, Each site has undergone significant investigations to understand the coastal and marine parks. geological, environmental and cultural heritage opportunities and constraints. The technical investigations have supported the project team to develop concept designs for each site that required community and stakeholder Parks Victoria, in feedback to progress into detail design. partnership with This report is a summary of participant contributions from the online and face- Traditional Owners, to-face engagement activities. invited community and About this report stakeholder feedback on This report presents the broad range of values, ideas and aspirations provided the design of three major by community members and stakeholders during the engagement period, projects for the from May to June 2018. Shipwreck Coast Master The feedback has been collated and categorised, to understand topics, Plan – Stage One. themes, demographics and levels of support using both qualitative and quantitative analysis techniques. A summary of the Parks Victoria would like to thank participants – who generously shared their feedback is outlined in time, research, values and ideas through this engagement process. this report.

Shipwreck Coast Master Plan – Stage One | Engagement Summary 5

2. Participation and demographics

The following key tools were used to engage community and stakeholders during May and June Engagement 2018. tools Project information and an online survey was available to help community and stakeholders provide structured feedback through the engage.vic.gov.au website.

Submissions were accepted via email direct to the project team.

Face-to-face workshops were available to enable Traditional Owners, community members, license tour operators and stakeholders to hear from the project and design team, ask questions and provide structured feedback and input.

Approximately 77 participants provided feedback on the draft designs for the Blowhole and Feedback Saddle Lookout, Twelve Apostles, Port Campbell National Park the Port Campbell Creek channel and Pedestrian Bridge, Port Campbell. Feedback was collected through the following channels: participant • Seven Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation representatives are involved ongoing in the concept design via face-to-face workshops and walking on Country type • 41 individuals provided feedback during three community and licenced tour operators workshop sessions • 25 online surveys collected via the engage.vic.gov.au platform • Four submissions sent to the project team

As part of the consultation Parks Victoria undertook the following activities: Activities • Consultation session with EMAC: Port Campbell Surf Life Saving Club (including site visits, walking Country), 9:00am – 5:00pm (approx.), Monday 26 March 2018 • Design workshops with EMAC artist: Friday 6 April, Wednesday 27 June and Monday 16 July 2018 with another scheduled for Friday 27 July • Community workshop: Port Campbell Surf Life Saving Club, 6.00pm to 8.00pm, Thursday 17 May 2018 • Community workshop: Port Campbell Arts Space, 2.00pm to 4.00pm, Saturday 19 May 2018 • Licenced Tour Operator workshop: 535 Bourke Street, Melbourne, 10:00am to 12:00pm, Wednesday 6 June 2018 • Survey available via Parks Victoria Engage Vic page – https://engage.vic.gov.au/shipwreck-coast-master-plan

The age range of participants varied from 19-28 years and 68 years and above. With the Participant majority of participants, 80 per cent, being between the ages of 39 and 68. All participants demographics stated that they live in Australia, with the exception of one participant who did not respond. The workshops and online survey were promoted via Parks Victoria advertisements in local Promotion newspapers, distribution of a media release and subsequent editorial articles penned, direct emails and calls to stakeholders and publication on the Parks Victoria website and social media channels. Coverage was featured in the following media outlets among others: • Warrnambool Standard online and print edition • Cobden Timboon Coast Times • Colac Herald • ABC Radio Ballarat • Surf Coast Times • Architecture AU • Bellarine Times

Shipwreck Coast Master Plan – Stage One | Engagement Summary 6 A meeting with Parks Victoria, the design team and Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation was Interest attended by seven Traditional Owner representatives where discussions centred around culturally significant places and interpretation opportunities. A total of 25 people participated via the online survey tool. The majority of participants, 60 per cent, were interested in the project because of their primary residence. Other interests in the project included: • recreation, nine participants • regular visitor, six participants • volunteers (emergency or community services), five participants • local business owner or operator, four participants • employment, three participants • secondary residence, two participants • tourist, two participants • attend or participate in an event, one participant. Other interests in the project included, interest in Western Victorian coastal environment, tax payer, local government and Lake Colac Caravan Park proprietor. The two community workshops were attended by thirty-five community members in total. The participants were local community members of Port Campbell, Timboon, Camperdown, Warrnambool and other local towns. The tour operator workshop was attended by six tour operators, representing the following organisations: • Around and about • Golden Nugget Discovery Tours • BusVic • Echidna Walkabout • Go West Tours Four additional submissions were made by the following: • Victorian National Parks Association • Protectors of Public Lands Victoria Inc. • Port Campbell Community Group Inc. • National Trust of Australia (Victoria)

Shipwreck Coast Master Plan – Stage One | Engagement Summary 7

Shipwreck Coast Master Plan – Stage One | Engagement Summary 8 3. Key findings

Part 1: The Port Campbell Creek Pedestrian Bridge

The following section of this • Structure location and were concerned to report is an analysis of the • Design preserve culturally significant participants’ contributions to • Culture, heritage and signage places in the area. Most discussions for each design. • Environment participants, particularly community workshop General support for Connectivity and participants, were also pleased with the location, feeling that it the proposed bridge accessibility would be used. There was general support of the In total 69 participant responses Several participants believed proposed Port Campbell Creek referred to the theme of there needs to be significant Pedestrian Bridge. Eastern Maar connectivity and accessibility. This consideration of the positioning of Aboriginal Corporation endorsed theme refers to the connecting the pathways and boardwalk. the ‘Tread Lightly’ approach and paths, connections to the Considerations of the positioning this was echoed by participants of township and beach and the of the z shaped path included the workshops who said the accessibility of the bridge, erosion of cliff, water coming bridge should be kept simple and including provision of amenities. down the track and intrusion of natural. The common message The common overarching flora and views. was that it should be sympathetic messages from participants were: to the natural environment of Many participants raised concern Port Campbell. Eastern Maar • excitement about improved about the path that leads to the Aboriginal Corporation are more opportunities for connection beach in front of the Surf Club. supportive of a location upstream • concern about the path that Highlighting the risk that a path on rather than on the beach and a leads to the beach the sand dunes and would likely form that has a lesser impact on • mix of views regarding the be destroyed within years. Several the landscape. proposed location of the participants suggested to reroute bridge the access from in front of, to Local community members who • ensure the bridge and behind the surf club. The caravan attended the workshops were connecting paths are park will need to be considered in especially excited the bridge accessible. both scenarios as the bridge and would be built. There was a connecting paths could impact feeling amongst most participants There was a mix of views their privacy and views. that the design was fantastic and regarding the proposed location appropriate for Port Campbell. of the bridge, with several Accessibility was a focus for some participants suggesting the bridge participants. It is important that Most community workshop be located across from the current the bridge and connecting path is participants and several survey track. Eastern Maar supported the accessible for aged people and participants believed the bridge would be well used by local community members. The tour operators identified that the bridge and walk provided a commercial opportunity as it created a destination. Recognising the views to be one of the great views along the Shipwreck Coast, the path and bridge would provide a purpose for visiting. The participants provided more detailed feedback about the proposed Port Campbell Creek Pedestrian Bridge. The feedback has been broken down into the following six themes:

• Connectivity and accessibility Stakeholder presentation at Port Campbell • Material

Shipwreck Coast Master Plan – Stage One | Engagement Summary 9 people with a disability. This steel, will rust and create noise. concerns of tripping and negative includes ensuring the width of the The importance of longevity of the visual impact. bridge fits two wheelchairs side by path was stressed predominately, There were a few concerns raised side. Several participants would with suggestions from community regarding the structure of the like the z shaped path to be wide workshop participants to elevate bridge and how to stop children enough to allow overtaking. the timber. According to several jumping off the bridge. participants the materials used Several participants highlighted should be low maintenance and the importance of resting points, durable to withstand harsh particularly for those with conditions including flooding and Design impaired mobility. These resting winds. points should be strategically In total 27 participant responses positioned to maximise the Several participants suggested referred to the theme of design. viewing experience of visitors. incorporating visually sympathetic This theme refers to general Accessible parking spaces on the recycled materials. feedback about the proposed Port Campbell side was also design of the bridge. Several participants would like to recommended by participants. see stainless steel cables. A few The common overarching A few participants queried participants were against the use messages from participants were: whether additional parking, toilet of mesh, with claims that it may • the design is excellent and facilities and bins had been corrode and sag. appropriate for Port considered. The bridge would The most significant message Campbell mean more visitors and therefore from participants was that the • endorsement of a simple and they believed additional amenities materials should be natural minimalist design. would be needed. looking, keeping with the Several participants thought the The issue of parking and access surrounding environment and design was perfect and that it from the main road was identified ensuring low visual impact. This should be kept as it is. by tour operators as a concern. was expressed by Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation, Participants stressed the

community members and tour importance that the design fits Material operators in the workshops and into the landscape, a few surveys. participants were concerned that In total 53 participant responses the proposed design would not. A referred to the theme of material. tour operator queried if there was This includes comments and a way to soften the structure, questions regarding what Structure believing that this should be a materials would be used for the consideration during the design In total 35 participant responses design, specifically the bridge stage. referred to the theme of deck, structure and connecting structure. This includes comments The tour operators also believed paths, as well as the colour of the relating to the structure of the that Aboriginal culture should be materials. bridge, which were predominately considered in the design of the The common overarching related to the structural cables. bridge and adjoining paths. They messages from participants were: were also strongly against any use The common overarching of lighting and sound features. • use natural materials and messages from participants were: colours that are sympathetic • there should be less cables to the environment and more sway • timber is the preferred Culture, heritage and • cables below the bridge material for bridge decking would cause negative visual signage and connecting path to the impact. foreshore In total 15 participant responses • use of stainless steel cable There was an overwhelming referred to the theme of culture, for the structural cables positive response to the sway of heritage and signage. This • use of limestone, or similar the bridge from workshop and includes comments and looking, for the track leading survey participants. Participants recommendations regarding to up to the lookouts were generally excited that the Aboriginal culture, history, • the materials used should be bridge would sway slightly, storytelling and signage. low maintenance. believing it would create a more The common overarching exciting experience for messages from participants were: It was generally agreed that pedestrians, visitors and kids. timber was the most appropriate Most participants did not want • the importance of the history material for its surroundings, with any more cables, expressing of the coastline concerns that materials, such as

Shipwreck Coast Master Plan – Stage One | Engagement Summary 10

• opportunity for shipwreck sympathetic to the natural paths will require ongoing storytelling along the paths environment of Port Campbell. maintenance as wearing occurs, and at lookout points however it is felt that concrete Design Team response: The • opportunity for paths are not appropriate for this bridge design seeks to tread interpretative signage along location as visitation is not lightly upon the creek the paths. anticipated to be heavy. environment, both physically and

Several participants emphasised visually. This is achieved through; the importance of remembering the single long span avoiding piers Reconsider the positioning of the and understanding the stories of in the creek, structurally efficient path that leads to the beach. the Shipwreck Coast. This was and therefore slender suspension Consider rerouting the access particularly a focus for tour structure, combined with visually from in front of the Surf Club to operators. They suggested light and recessive materials and behind the surf club. interpretive signage that reflects finishes. Design Team response: Also the local environment, including favours a path route that avoids Natural materials and colours wildlife and plants. The signs impacting the sensitive dunal should be used for the bridge and should be well designed, vegetation and exposed to tidal connecting paths; participants’ accessible to read and signage surge from the harbour. An material preferences were timber should be consistent along the alternative route to the town side and limestone, or similar. Shipwreck Coast. The signage of the Surf Club is being should be delivered as a journey, Design Team response: Timber investigated further. This route telling the story as visitors travel decking is proposed for both the would also provide a more from destination to destination. bridge deck and any elevated intuitive and direct link between walkway approaches. The steps the town and the bridge and Environment and pathway up the north require less capital and embankment are proposed to be In total 14 participant responses maintenance expenditure. In predominantly cut from the addition we note, following on referred to the theme of limestone cliff, exposing the environment. This theme refers to site discussions with the existing natural materials. Catchment Management wildlife, vegetation and Concrete retaining elements may maintenance. Authority (CMA), that this looks be required for stabilisation in like the most practical option, The common overarching limited areas. Concrete finishes, given the lack of support for messages from participants were: where required, will be putting fill into the flood plain. sympathetic with the natural

• Maintaining the vegetation limestone tones. Preference will so that there are good views be given to compacted limestone Ensure the bridge and paths are at lookout points. when paths are at grade. Where accessible. • Plant lower growing native elevated paths are required Design Team response: Disability plants along the path. Australian hardwood timber Discrimination Act (DDA) • Ensure care is taken with boardwalks will be given compliant accessible paths are surrounding vegetation, with preference. It is noted that Parks provided to the bridge from the consideration of the Victoria have requested the use of Port Campbell town approach. environmental impact on concrete for stair treads due to The bridge is DDA compliant to significant vegetation, as the durability considerations. the north bank. Given the flora is very special in Point Campbell. extremely steep terrain and grade Ensure the bridge and paths are • Ensure there is minimal of the park walking trail, the steps designed for longevity, using low impact on the surrounding up the embankment are not DDA maintenance and durable environment. compliant. The bridge does materials. • Thoughtful positioning of the however support access to the lookout points to celebrate Design Team response: High future planned accessible board the beautiful views of Port durability and low maintenance walk around the wetlands. materials are favoured by the Campbell There should be less structural design team and asset operators. cables and more sway. What we heard: key However, it should be noted that natural materials advocated Design Team response: This item considerations and above, such as timber and refers to the choice between a design team responses limestone, are not as durable as very stable deck that requires side other materials such as concrete cable bracing which constricts The common overarching or steel. Maintenance and whole- movement beneath the bridge messages from the engagement of-life considerations are and a more dynamic, but still safe, findings were: compromised by the selection of deck without additional bracing. The bridge should be kept simple natural materials. For example, The design has adopted a more and natural looking, ensuring it is compacted limestone aggregate dynamic crossing free of added

Shipwreck Coast Master Plan – Stage One | Engagement Summary 11 cable bracing to both reduce visual impact and maximise movement along the creek. Part 2: The Blowhole Lookout

Overall, there was support for The common overarching • What are the safety reopening the Blowhole. Eastern messages from participants were: measures of the structure? Maar Aboriginal Corporation as • What is the capacity of the • support for the simplicity of well as many participants, structure and how will visitor the design and that it blends including community and tour numbers be managed? operator workshop participants, in with the surrounding environment were supportive of the Blowhole The common overarching Lookout subsumed design and • support for the incorporation messages from participants were: of Aboriginal culture in the accepted the form. Most • support for the subsumed participants were pleased that the design, particularly the reference to the whale in the concept, that the structure is design was simple and that it incorporated into the design. blends in with the surrounding surrounding environment environment. Many participants, particularly the • support for the curved The tour operators stated that the community and tour operator structure lookout provides the opportunity workshop participants, felt excited • ensure the structure respects for an additional destination along about the design, with several the surrounding landscape the Shipwreck Coast. Most describing the design as beautiful. • concern regarding wind participants agree that it is Only a few participants expressed funnelling due to the curved currently not a location that many their dislike for what had been structure. designed. people visit, acknowledging that Tour operators and Eastern Maar due to fencing there is currently The issue of graffiti was raised by Aboriginal Corporation were little to see. several tour operators, suggesting particularly interested in how the There was some concern, raised that Aboriginal art should be acoustics of the structure would by a few survey participants, that incorporated into the design of amplify the natural sound of the the proposed lookout would the lookout to minimise graffiti. blowhole. detract from the surrounding Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation felt internal linings There were only a few nature. With a few participants participants who believed the believing that the design had not could incorporate cultural patterns and artwork. Tour structure over the blowhole considered the best vantage for would detract from the natural views of the Blowhole and that it operators were also interested in how the design could prevent appearance of the blowhole and may not improve the view of surrounding environment. inside the Blowhole. people from going over the edge. The participants provided more Connectivity and detailed feedback about the accessibility proposed Blowhole Lookout. The Structure and capacity In total 25 participant responses feedback has been broken down In total 29 participant responses referred to the theme of into the following six themes: referred to the theme of structure connectivity and accessibility. This • Design and capacity. This refers to the theme refers to the connecting • Structure and capacity structure of the lookout and its paths, the accessibility of the • Connectivity and accessibility capacity. Feedback and questions lookout, particularly visitor access, • Visitor experience about the structure of the lookout and provision of amenities that • Culture, heritage and was predominately made in the improve accessibility. Geotech workshops. This included many questions to the technical experts, The common overarching • Material some of which were answered in messages from participants were: the workshop. These questions Design • It is great giving people included: In total 30 participant responses choice, having both walks referred to the theme of design. • What are the dimensions of create options that spreads This includes general comments the structure? visitors out. about the proposed design of the • Will the curve protect people • There should be vehicle Blowhole Lookout and connecting from the weather, access down to the Blowhole paths. particularly wind? for emergency vehicle use.

Shipwreck Coast Master Plan – Stage One | Engagement Summary 12

• There are exciting opportunity for people to see This refers to the materials used opportunities for the Blowhole. for the lookout and connecting connections to other paths. • There is potential to deliver a paths, including colour and • The height of the lookout sensory experience, noting treatment. This was should provide accessibility, the power of the sea, natural predominately discussed in the for example, for children and elements and erosive forces. community workshops. people in wheelchairs. • Concern that the structure The common overarching • Increase carparking to cater will detract from the natural messages from participants were: for additional visitors and surrounds and negatively licence tour operator impact the visitor experience. • preference of crushed coaches to the Blowhole. • Concern that the lookout will limestone for the track • Consider the provision of bring more visitors to the • use of natural materials and toilets and shelters at the Blowhole, which could inhibit colours Blowhole, as there currently the current peaceful and • incorporate Eastern Maar aren’t any. quiet experience of the site. culture in the treatment of the structure. The tour operators were The tour operators also interested in how many people commented on the impacts on Most participants agreed that currently visit the Blowhole. visitor experience, their discussion limestone was the most Having a shorter walk was focussed on the opportunity for a appropriate material, as it is particularly supported by tour more contemplative experience. sympathetic to the landscape and operators, as they often have They thought that signage should would ensure the track is durable. limited time to spend at each complement the visitor It was felt by several participants location. experience. Signage should be that the colour of lookout should simple and offer subtle cues to complement the surrounding Several participants were the individual, to help them vegetation, suggesting the outside interested in the height of fences experience and be aware of the of the structure should be earthy along the walk, with tour wildlife and heritage of the colours. Embedding local shells in operators stressing the location. the tracks was also suggested by a importance of safety at the site. few participants. Concern for the native vegetation Culture, heritage and was also raised, particularly in regard to people climbing over Geotech fencing. In total 12 participant responses What we heard: key referred to the theme of culture, considerations and Visitor experience heritage and Geotech. This refers In total 25 participant responses to feedback relating to Aboriginal design team responses referred to the theme of visitor culture, the history of the site and The common overarching experience. This theme refers to geotechnical investigations. messages from the engagement findings were: the potential experiences of The common overarching visitors to the Blowhole Lookout, messages from participants were: The Blowhole Lookout should be and particularly how the lookout kept simple and should blend in will impact the visitor experience. • There was curiosity about with the surrounding what geotechnical The responses were environment using natural investigations had taken predominately provided by survey looking materials. place. participants, as they were • The Blowhole lookout Design Team response: The specifically asked, ‘how do you provides an opportunity to proposal subsumes the lookout in think the Blowhole Lookout will share the story of the rocks to the landscape to minimise its change the visitor experience?’ and Indigenous and non- visual impact when viewed from The feedback was mixed with Indigenous culture and the path approaches. several participants feeling it history. would have a positive impact, Aboriginal culture and art should • It is good and exciting that others thinking the impact would be incorporated in the design of the Aboriginal community be negative and a few participant the lookout. Participants support have input in the project. responses were neutral. the reference to the whale in the • Opportunities for more design. The common overarching cultural interpretation, messages from participants were: including artwork and stories Design Team response: We inside the lookout structure. partnering with a highly-regarded • The Blowhole Lookout artist who is also a member of the provides an opportunity for Material Eastern Marr Aboriginal experience that is currently Corporation. She is influencing the not available, it’s an In total 11 participant responses referred to the theme of material. concept, the form of the lookout,

Shipwreck Coast Master Plan – Stage One | Engagement Summary 13 colours and the integrated Design Team response: DDA artworks. compliant accessible paths to and The possibility of wind funnelling from the lookout with rest stops The issue of safety and how the due to the curved structure. at the lookout entry and exit design can help prevent people Design Team response: points. Floor levels are at <3% from going over the edge or over Depending upon wind direction, grade to provide a ramp-free and the path fences. some wind funnelling may occur landing-free surface. Maximising Design Team response: Safety is in the structure. However, the equitable viewing from the being carefully considered subsumed nature of the canopy lookout in to the Blowhole along through the design process. will alleviate wind effect as it is the length of the viewing area has Barrier height and form is being not significantly higher than the been a key objective and has evaluated to allow for both visitor surrounding terrain. While the informed the design solutions. outlook and personal safety. structure provides some shade The potential to deliver a sensory There are two distinct and shelter from the sun, rain and experience, particularly aural considerations with containment wind, it is not intended to provide experience, and how to enhance of visitors - accidental falling from complete protection and remove this in the design. elevated locations and deliberate visitors from the authentic, climbing over fences to access rugged, natural experience of the Design Team response: The wave- unauthorised areas. Accidental site. like canopy produces an ‘echo falling is addressed through chamber’ which is intended to balustrade design including amplify the natural wave sounds height, strength (high structural The capacity of the lookout to in the blowhole. The design team loading 3KN/m) and form. account for additional visitor is exploring furniture surrounding Deliberate climbing of fences and numbers. blowhole to have a tactile and balustrades is discouraged visual experience as cultural through the design but cannot be Design Team response: The interpretation is being eliminated entirely. Both aspects, number of visitors to the undertaken. accidental and deliberate Blowhole is limited by the current encroachment, also have to car parking provision, noting the consider maintaining views and site is not immediately accessible quality of visitor experience. For to tour buses. The lookout is also instance, very high fences will designed to provide good vantage further deter climbing by the few, points into the blowhole from a but detrimentally impact the long expanse of balustrade, rather experience for all. Alignment of than funnelling visitors to a single paths, away from the Blowhole lookout point. edge, and landscape buffers are Ensure the lookout is accessible, also used to deter movement off particularly the height of the the paths. lookout edge. Stakeholders presentation at Port Campbell

Shipwreck Coast Master Plan – Stage One | Engagement Summary 14

Part 3: The Saddle Lookout

The design for the Saddle Lookout • Structure and capacity The tour operators and some was the most contentious of the • Materials community workshop three projects, evidenced in the • Design participants, however, felt more workshops and survey responses. • Visitor experience positive about the width of the The feedback of the design was • Connectivity and accessibility end point after explanation from highly mixed, with positive and • Culture, heritage and the architects. negative reactions to what had Geotech Some participants were been designed. concerned that the lookout would Eastern Maar Aboriginal Structure and capacity be covered. It was generally Corporation representatives In total 54 participant responses agreed that they shouldn’t be, commented on the proposed referred to the theme of structure emphasising the importance of black and white colours and and capacity. This theme refers to immersing people in the referenced the importance of feedback relating to the structure elements. Community workshop birds to Eastern Maar culture. The of the lookout, including the participants particularly talked black and white cockatoos are width, capacity and safety of the about the drama of being open to central to the kinship and ordering structure. the elements and were pleased of Eastern Maar society and they that the structures created a The common overarching felt the colours welcome if sense of danger. Eastern Maar messages from participants were: coupled with the appropriate representatives also felt the narrative. • There was concern that the design team should avoid a sense lookout was not big enough of enclosure at this site. which could create a choke The tour operators were It was felt by several participants point. predominately positive about the that the aim of the structure was • design. Some community Ensure the capacity of the to stand out, to which community workshop and survey participants lookout is sufficient, workshop participants had mixed had strong negative reactions to particularly to account for responses. Several participants the lookout, however several did increase in visitor stay time. were not pleased by this, understand why this design had • The viewing platforms should believing that the lookout did not been proposed for the Twelve not be sheltered. complement the coastline. Apostles. • There was concern that the Softening the structure was a structures do not There was a strong reaction to the priority for some participants. complement the coast. colour of the lookout, with many • Consideration of ways to participants finding the black and Materials soften the structure should white to be too much or a stark In total 32 participant responses be made. contrast with the surrounding referred to the theme of • The structure has the environment. Most participants materials. This theme refers to the potential to improve views of suggested that more natural materials used for the structure of the coast. materials and colours be used to the lookout, the connecting paths, • The structure would reduce blend the structure into the rest points and the colours. natural landscape. dangerous behaviour, preventing visitors from The common overarching Protecting the natural climbing over onto the cliff. message from participants was: environment, ensuring the design has a low environmental impact, Concern was raised by several • The materials and colours of was a priority for some participants across all the Saddle Lookout should be participants and was particularly engagement activities that the chosen to complement and evident in the submissions. structure was not wide enough. blend in with the surrounding This raised concern that visitors environment. The tour operators were would be contained at the end of Most participants felt that the use interested in the project the viewing platform and that this of black and white was too timeframes and access to the would create a congestion point. distinctive and would be too stark Twelve Apostles during Recommendations from several a contrast against the surrounding construction. participants included increasing environment. These participants the edge opportunity and Participants provided more felt that more natural colours changing the way the structure detailed feedback about the should be chosen so that the sits to ensure natural flow of Saddle Lookout. The feedback has structure blends in with the tourists. been broken down into the natural surrounds. Suggestions following six themes: from participants included:

Shipwreck Coast Master Plan – Stage One | Engagement Summary 15 • reduce the contrast of In contrast with these negatively impact on visitors’ colours participants, the consensus from experience. • use more natural colours, for participants in the tour operator • Concern was raised that example, sandstone or workshop was that the design of increasing visitor numbers limestone the saddle Lookout was great, and could also have negative • use more permeable they could generally understand impacts on the natural materials, for example, slats why this design had been chosen environment. and fins. for the Twelve Apostles. Connectivity and Tour operators were initially Visitor experience concerned that the contrast of accessibility In total 25 participant responses black and white would not be In total 18 participant responses referred to the theme of visitor endorsed by the Eastern Maar referred to the theme of experience. This theme refers to people. They were pleased to hear connectivity and accessibility. This the potential experience of the the design and colours had been refers to the connecting paths, visitor, particularly how the accepted by the local Aboriginal accessibility of the lookout and proposed lookout will impact the community. The focus of the the provision of amenities that visitor experience. conversation regarding materials improve accessibility. in the tour operator workshop The responses were The common overarching was the adjoining paths and rest predominately provided by survey messages from participants were: stops. The concern was participants, as they were predominately about the amount specifically asked, ‘how do you • The local amenities need to of concrete that was proposed in think the Saddle Lookout will be improved and increased, the design. Several participants change the visitor experience?’ particularly bathrooms and thought more use of timber, The feedback was mixed with parking. particularly for seating, would almost the same number of • The lookout needs to be help soften the look as well as be participants believing the lookout accessible for children and more comfortable for visitors to will have a positive impact as people in wheelchairs, they sit on. those who believed it will have a should be able to see over negative impact. A few participant the lookout edge. responses were neutral and one • Queries regarding the Design was unsure. connecting paths, particularly the circuit and the natural In total 28 participant responses The messages from participants flow of visitors. referred to the theme of design. who believed the lookout would This refers to general comments have a positive impact were: Several community workshop about the design of the lookout participants were interested in • The proposed lookout and and connecting paths, including the circuit, querying the length of connecting paths provides how the design sits in its natural the course and raising concern visitors with the opportunity surrounds. that it changes the environment to stay longer, sit, spend time making it physically separate. The common overarching and enjoy themselves. They noted the walkways should messages from survey participants • The lookout will enhance the be shrouded by native vegetation were: visitor experience by to give a greater sense of being improving the viewing surrounded by nature as well • The design of the Saddle opportunities. protect from adverse weather Lookout does not • The circuit will encourage a complement the coastline. conditions. Containing visitors to natural flow which will the track was also discussed. The • The design should be visually reduce the feeling of tour operators were particularly and environmentally low congestion and therefore interested as to how visitors impact. improve the visitor would be stopped from going the • The design for the Saddle experience. should blend with the natural opposite way. The messages from participants surrounds. It was suggested that the rest who believed the lookout would areas be strategically located Several participants expressed have a negative impact were: sever concern that the design of along the path to offer great the lookout did not sit well within • Concern that the proposed viewing experiences to visitors. lookout will increase the the natural surrounds. They Concern was raised by some length of stay, adding to thought what had been designed participants that increasing the existing congestion. did not keep with the natural capacity of the lookout would put • landscape, with some suggesting Concern that the structures pressure on the carpark, this that the lookout should be detract from the surrounding would need to be managed. The designed with a more natural environment and natural toilets require serious look. views and therefore Shipwreck Coast Master Plan – Stage One | Engagement Summary 16 improvement, if not to be Design Team response: We’re situation which is bi-directional replaced completely. exploring options to soften the flow over a 2-2.5m path width. appearance while retaining the There are also wide path / Culture, heritage and reference to the culturally congregation areas near the Geotech significant reference to black and entrance and exit points of the white cockatoo moieties, and lookout that can be utilised if In total 12 participant responses delivering a memorable sculptural necessary to manage peak visitor referred to culture, heritage and form. numbers. Geotech. This theme refers to Aboriginal culture, the history of Ensure natural flow of visitors The lookout structure should not the site and geotechnical and how the design can prevent a be covered. Participant support investigations. choke point at the end of the that visitors should be open to The common overarching lookout structure. the elements, this is an integral messages from participants were: part of the experience. Design Team response: The • The importance of sharing natural flow of visitors has been Design Team response: The the history of the coastline, carefully considered. Pedestrian current design has no roof. There for example, through flow modelling has been will be no protection from the interpretive signage. undertaken and indicates that the elements. • Queries and concerns lookout capacity is suitable for regarding landfall and current and reasonably projected Ensure the lookout is accessible, whether this would impact visitor numbers. In particular, the particularly the height of the the proposed lookout. edge perimeter has been lookout edge. • Tour operators were satisfied significantly increased to Parks Victoria is partnering maximise the viewing Design Team response: DDA with the local Aboriginal opportunities and the 4m compliant accessible paths to and community on the design minimum width allows people to from the lookout with rest stops and delivery of the project. circulate behind those at the at the lookout entry and exit balustrade. points. Floor levels are DDA What we heard: key compliant with maximum 1:20 considerations and Ensure the capacity of the grade and generally <3% grade to lookout and connecting paths is provide a largely ramp-free and design team responses efficient, particularly to account landing-free surface. Maximising The common overarching for increased visitor stay time. equitable viewing from the messages from the engagement lookout along the length of the findings were: Design Team response: The flow viewing area has been a key of visitors has been carefully objective and has informed the The design of the lookout should considered with the path network design solutions. complement the coast line, and structure designed to be consider softening the structure more efficient as it provides a through use of natural materials largely single direction traffic flow, and colours, such as timber and across a minimum 4m path width. limestone. Contrast that with current

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4. Next steps

This summary and further data from the engagement process will be assessed along with other relevant information by the project team. The team will consider the findings from this report during the schematic design stage. All participants will be notified when the engagement summary report is released.

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More information If you would like to find out more about Parks Victoria Victoria’s parks but need some help with English, we can assist. All of Parks 13 1963 Victoria’s Information Centre operators parks.vic.gov.au are trained to use telephone interpreters and will be happy to take your telephone ISBN: 978-1-920789-01-5 call.

If you are deaf, or have a hearing or speech impairment, contact us through the National Relay Service on 133 677 or visit relayservice.com.au

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