Gosling Creek Reserve Master Plan Report
July 2001
May 2001
Prepared by: Prepared for:
Environmental Partnership (NSW) Pty Ltd
Landscape Architects and Urban Planners 2 River Street Birchgrove NSW 2041 Phone: (02) 9555 1033 Fax: (02) 9818 5292 Email: [email protected] ABN 53 088 175 437 Table of Contents
1.01.01.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 Generally 1.2 Consultation
2.02.02.0 ReviewReviewReview
2.1 Context 2.2 Background 2.3 Previous Studies 2.4 Site Appraisal 2.5 Usage 2.6 Pressures and Opportunities
3.03.03.0 Master Plan
3.1 Masterplanning Principles 3.2 Concept Master Plan Options 3.3 Preferred Master Plan 3.4 Typical treatments
4.04.04.0 Staged Works Action Plan
4.1 Priorities 4.2 Works Action Plan 4.3 Costing
5.05.05.0 Bibliography
6.06.06.0 Appendix
A. Stakeholder Reference List B. Press Releases / Flyers C. Community Workshop Notes
1.0 Introduction
1.1 Generally This Master Plan Report presents the outcomes of the master plan study for Gosling Creek Reserve undertaken for Orange City Council by Environmental Partnership (Landscape Architects) over May – July 2001. The master plan is intended to guide the ongoing enhancement of Gosling Creek Reserve for the development of a recreational facility and nature reserve. The plan aims to reflect the site’s individual character whilst extending the range of recreational opportunities available to the population of Orange. The master plan recommendations balance provision of a sustainable level of recreational Northern foreshores of rerservoir use on the site with environmental management objectives relating to flora and fauna habitat following harvest of pine plantation enhancement and water management. Through workshop consultation with community stakeholders, the resolution of the most effective balance of these “uses” has been developed. A preferred master plan was developed from the review of a series of concept options which explored varied approaches to the integration of recreational and environmental goals. Uses and activities catered for in the preferred master plan include: - recreational walking, jogging, and cycling; - passive recreation (informal play, games, family picnics); Historic dam wall - connections to district cycle and pedestrian trail network; - connections to district horse bridle trail network; - recreational fishing; - nature and historical interpretation / education; - bush regeneration and management; - creek line rehabilitation and management; - overflow sports field use (Bloomfield Park); and Bushland regeneration area (Bloomfield - junior competition cycling and triathalon (incorporating event day management). Park) The master plan and related implementation programme offers a unique opportunity to rehabilitate the reservoir area to achieve multiple environmental and recreational objectives. To the Bloomfield Park / Gosling Creek east zone of the reserve conservation and enhancement of positive cultural and natural character features will consolidate the quality of the existing open space as a community resource. With the support of the community and external funding sources (such as the State Government) the plan can be implemented over a staged programme. High priority environmental strategies such as revegetation and weed management will be incorporated into initial phases of development to establish a landscape setting suitable for recreational pursuits. The long term realisation of the master plan in it’s entirety will provide a major legacy to the community of Orange, enhancing the diversity of landscape settings and recreational activities available, and securing the environmental conservation of an significant habitat resource for both flora and fauna.
D A O ROAD R DIA CA BLO OM FI ROAD ELD
Y RO Native Tree AD E
L Regeneration T
N
Zone U Brandy Creek H FOREST Cleared Pine Plantation
B APicnic Area OAD R R FIELD G BLOOM W
A Bush Regeneration8 Farm 9 N 2 N Dam A Playing Field's
8 9 BLOOMFIELD PARK 4 8 Gosling Creek 9 8 Gosling Creek GOSLING CREEK RESERVOIR
9 8 0 9 Cottage 0 6 9 0 Dam Wall 2 R O A D 9 Wetland 0 4
9 0 6 9 Mixed Forest 0 8
9 1 0
9 1 2
9 2 9 9 9 0 1 3 9 2 4 4 3 9 9 9 2 9 0 2 2 2 9 3 8 6 4 1 9 2 8 1 6 0 50 100 200m The Gosling Creek Reserve: Existing Site Orange City Council 3 Gosling Creek Reserve Masterplan July 2001
1.2 Consultation As part of the master plan study a series of consultation processes were undertaken. Consultation with the local community was integrated with the concept development phase, involving liaison with a community stakeholder group derived through direct contact with organised groups. Contact with community stakeholders was by mailout, which was supplemented by local press releases to encourage interested local residents to be involved. The consultation programme incorporated two community workshops held at key phases during the master plan development. Meeting notes from each of the workshops are included in Appendix C. The general focus of the community workshops are identified below: Workshop No. 1 Monday 21st May, 2001 9 participants Workshop review of issues and opportunities
Workshop No. 2 Wednesday 13th June, 2001 11 participants Workshop review of concept master plan options Several project coordination sessions were also undertaken with Council’s Project Officer Group to confirm project direction and progress.
Aerial view of Gosling Creek Reservoir
4 Orange City Council 2.0 Review
2.1 Context Orange City is located on the Mitchell Highway approximately 3.5 hour’s drive away from Sydney and has a population of 36000. The city is renowned for its many fine parks and gardens with spectacular Autumn colours. Gosling Creek Reserve is located approximately five minutes drive south of the city centre on Forest Road. The surrounding area has Elm specimen in Bloomfield Park is been earmarked for continued rural and agricultural use due to quality characteristic of Orange’s Autumn colour basalt based soils. The site is bordered by Forest Road to the west, display Bloomfield Road to the north, Huntley Road to the east, and Gosling Creek to the south. Bloomfield Hospital incorporating a park-like setting is located near the northern boundary of the site. Other adjacent land uses include agriculture and pine plantation. Gosling Creek Reserve is dissected by Bargwanna Road into two distinct land parcels, the Gosling Creek Reservoir and Bloomfield Park. Although the main access to the site from Orange CBD is currently by car, there are plans to link the site to the CBD with a shared pedestrian / cycle path. At present an off-road path extends down Forest Road, adjoining Bloomfield Golf Course and Hospital sites and terminates Aerial photograph of the site and adjacent at the entry to the Orange Agricultural Research Station. There are rural properties plans to extend this path south along Forest Road in the immediate future, effectively linking the CBD with the site. It is envisaged that future extension of the pathway could incorporate the alignment of the historic Gnoo Blas Race circuit continuing access through Gosling Creek Reserve (roughly parallel to Bloomfield Road) to Huntley Road, and turning to the north and following Huntley Road, providing a loop route back to the CBD. There are also opportunities to develop access links with open space areas in the surrounding district. Lake Canobolas to the west and the Canobolas State Forest and Mount Canobolas State Recreation Area Rural character of neigbouring properties to the southwest already provide a wide range of recreational facilities as viewed from Forest Road and would be suitable destinations that could be linked via a district network of trails for pedestrian, cycle and horse / bridle use. The figure below indicates the relationship of Gosling Creek Reserve to the other site’s and the potential for linkage.
GOSLING CREEK RESERVE
District map identifies potential access to trail connections through open space corridors and disused street alignments
Orange City Council 5 Gosling Creek Reserve Masterplan July 2001
2.2 Background Gosling Creek was named after Jonathon W. Gosling, a free settler who arrived in Australia by ship in 1827. The Gosling Creek Reservoir provided the first Orange town water supply and was officially turned on by Governor Charles R. B. Carrington on October 8, 1890. When the prospect of sewerage was addressed in 1917, the Director General of Public Works turned down the idea of having two reservoirs on the water shed. Gosling Creek Reservoir was not abandoned altogether, it was later used as water supply for the nearby Bloomfield Hospital and the Agricultural Veterinary Research Station. During this time the Reservoir was subject to rapid depletion during peak usage periods, and it was necessary to top up the reservoir with water pumped up from the lower catchment. (Orange Agricultural College: 1987) The Gosling Creek Reservoir is no longer drawn from directly for town water supply, it is the third reservoir in the Summer Hill Creek catchment behind Spring Creek Reservoir (2.4km downstream) and Historic dam wall structure Suma Park Dam.
2.3 Previous Studies The following summaries identify the findings of previous studies on the reservoir and related open space relevant to the master plan. Orange Agricultural College Associate Diploma of Environmental Control – Land Management II Project – “A Proposal for the use of Gosling Creek & Spring Creek Reservoirs for Recreation” (1987) Background • This report was written by students from OAC prior to the decision to log the Pine plantation areas. Summary • Recommended recreational activities are integrated with the primary aim of supplying clean, safe and reliable water to the city of Orange. [Note: Water supply function no longer applicable] • The “incorporated” Bloomfield Park – Gosling Creek Reservoir area was divided into three stages of proposed development. The development proposals include: - general upgrades of facilities already present at Bloomfield Park; - fencing off the dam wall – so that people don’t fall off the top of it; - a bush walking track to link the two areas; Reservoir wall design (circa 1890) - relocation of the city nursery to allow for a picnic area; - provision for a horse trail; and - stocking the dam with fish allowing fishing along the northern shore. • In contrast to Gosling Creek Reservoir it was found that Spring Creek Reservoir does not present a great deal of recreational potential. • This report recommends that Spring Creek Reservoir be managed as a waterbird sanctuary because of its range of excellent waterbird habitats and the general lack of such habitats in the Central Tablelands of NSW. Investigation of the potential for recreational use of Gosling Creek Reservoir Site Description • Topography – general terrain surrounding Gosling Creek is flat to undulating and approximately 950 metres above sea level. • Soil Type – predominantly basalt derived soils • Climate – annual precipitation 865mm. Mean temperatures January 19.4 degrees C, July 5.4 degrees C. Frost in April & September. Infrequent snow falls between May and August. • Depth of Reservoir – deepest section is 5-6 meters in front of the dam wall, however most of the area varies from 2-3 meters • Length of dam wall is 240m
6 Orange City Council 2.0 Review
Previous Studies (continued) Features Flora & Fauna (report incorporates full listing) • Playing field 1 (closest to the car park) was used for baseball Proposed recreational development for Gosling Creek • Playing field 2 was used for junior cricket, and has a a) Recommended Activities concrete cricket pitch • Bushwalking • Picnic areas: - two main areas, one west of playing • Picnicking field 1, the other north east of playing field 2 (on the high ground near Bloomfield Road). The second picnic • Fishing area contains a weather shelter [Note: must have been • Horse Riding demolished] b) Prohibited Activities • Trail bike riding – noise, fire hazard, conflicting user of 2.2 Urban Context trails, etc. • Access to Bloomfield Park restricted mostly to people • Swimming – would impact on water quality by stirring with motor vehicles up silt/sediment, not compatible with fishing due to • Active component of the park is not developed to the limited size of reservoir same standard as Orange’s major sports grounds, as • Boating (powered and non-powered) – due to pollution the park is out of town and does not warrant such from engine, stirring up silt/sediment, vehicle access development. Despite this it is used for cricket and required to shore line, 60% of public not in favour of it baseball, and also serves to take pressure off the major sports grounds. • Camping – pollution, fire risk, would then need to provide additional facilities • The passive area contains many trees, some are remnant and others are planted natives and exotics. • Hunting – dangerous, pollution’s from left over carcasses, conflict with wildlife habitat • Passive area used for activities such as horse riding, walking, exercising dogs, and picnics. Orange City Council – BLOOMFIELD PARK – Plan of Management (POM) 15/2/96 3.0 Management and Maintenance Issues 1.0 Introduction • Current management of Bloomfield Park is aimed at Background maintaining the park at its current level of development. • Park covers and area of 21.18 hectares, comprising of • Although there is potential to develop the park further, both “Crown” and “Community” land. there is insufficient demand to do this. • Bloomfield Park identified as ‘Community District Park’ • Bloomfield Park has no permanent maintenance staff. under the OCC Open Space Policy Report (May 1986) Mowing is carried out every 2-3 weeks by Council’s and the park is intended to provide residents with an “Mowing and Refuse Crew”. Trimming, spraying, area for activities on a district basis, including sports picking up rubbish and other maintenance is done by and playing fields. Council’s “Other Parks Maintenance Crew”, who also Objectives carry out any necessary tree planting in the winter. A Council employee responsible for all Council toilets • Develop and support diverse and enriching sport and cleans the amenities block. recreational pursuits in response to community needs. • Achieve an informed and positive attitude towards the environment. 3.1 Future Issues for Consideration Category • Encourage users to the western end of the park, which has better facilities (toilets, etc). It is proposed that the • Bloomfield Park is categorized as a “sportsground” in provision and maintenance of facilities be concentrated accordance with section 36 of the Local Government in this area, and that facilities in the eastern section, Act 1993. such as the second bbq area, be gradually removed as their useful life is expended.
2.0 Land Characteristics • Maintenance problem – irrigation of playing fields. Lack of water pressure. Despite the close proximity of the Geography Gosling Creek Water Reservoir, the park suffers from • Area to the west of Brandy Creek including playing an inadequate water supply due to very low pressure fields, amenities block and barbecue identified as the in heavily rusted pipes. The dam is also heavily silted, ‘active recreation area’. only holding a fraction of its former capacity. Three suggested options to rectify situation: • Area to the east of Brandy Creek identified as ‘passive recreation area’ 1. Bore and Pump ($50 000 including extending power supply)
Orange City Council 7 Gosling Creek Reserve Masterplan July 2001
Previous Studies (continued) of wildlife and plant life. The natural surroundings of GOSLING CREEK RESERVOIR provide an 2. Connection to Gosling Creek Reservoir (might aesthetically pleasing environment and is an area that not have required water capacity as it is used the general public should be encouraged to utilize. It for passive recreation - fishing) has been proposed that various types of recreational 3. Connection to town water supply (not really an activity be explored, both in terms of suitability and the option due to high cost) level of water degradation, as a result of recreational activity, that may affect the quality of the water supply • Inadequate drainage on Field No. 1 (Baseball Field). in the reservoir.” Subsoil drainage required • Development of passive area, especially in the form of walking and riding trails. This should focus on the Recommended and prohibited activities environmental aspects of the area, using the natural RECOMMENDED PROHIBITED features as the focal point. Opportunities for Bush regeneration / tree planting. Conflict with attempts to ACTIVITIES ACTIVITIES encourage park use in western end of site Fishing Swimming • Additional seating required around Field No. 1 Bush walking Boating – (powered and unpowered) Orienteering Trail Bike Riding 3.2 Strategies and Actions Picnicking Camping • Ensure upkeep and topdressing of Field No. 1 on a regular basis Horse Riding Hunting • Implement strategies to direct the bulk of park users toward the Western section of Bloomfield Park Trial Fishing • Develop plans for upgrading the water supply, including • In December 1993, a Plan of Management was adopted the establishment of a water bore and irrigation system in relation to a trial fishing period to be carried out at in Bloomfield Park ending 1997 the Gosling Creek Reservoir. • Carry out a subsoil drainage program on the playing • The trial fishing was for four months, and its success fields by 1997 was to determine the future of fishing as a recreational activity.
Orange City Council – GOSLING CREEK RESERVOIR – • Fishing was restricted to the foreshores Plan of Management (POM) 14/7/96 • 2000 brown trout and 3000 rainbow trout were released, 1.0 Introduction these joined an already large redfin population in the Background dam • Gosling Creek Reservoir is no longer used as a town water supply 4.0 Water Quality • The dam is used for recreational fishing, stocked with • Following the line of creek flow, the Gosling Creek both rainbow and brown trout Reservoir is located 2.4 km upstream from the Spring • The majority of the area surrounding the dam was Creek Reservoir [town water supply] designated for Monterey Pine plantations (Pinus • Whilst the reservoir is a disused water body in terms of radiata) [Note: subsequently harvested] human consumption water quality testing is essential, • There was also a small nursery located in the northeast as any problems that arise in the Gosling Creek System may be detrimental to the quality of the water further part of the site (adjacent to the cottage) downstream at the Spring Creek Reservoir Objectives • At present, bacteriological tests are performed on a • Further development of the reservoir as a recreational monthly and three monthly basis at a number of sites use area whilst maintaining responsibility for the throughout the catchment, both by Council and the preservation of the natural environment Water Filtration Plant Superintendent. Whilst the tests have aided in identifying levels of bacterial • Consider the most viable strategy in relation to contamination in creeks such as the Gosling Creek management of the Monterey pine plantations Reservoir, issues relating to siltation and eutrophication have not been addressed.
3.0 Recreation • It has been suggested that siltation of the Gosling Creek Reservoir may still be a problem. Without clear records • “As a disused water supply, the GOSLING CREEK to indicate the level of nutrients, salt and soils within RESERVOIR encompasses a large area of open space the catchment, it becomes increasingly difficult to and provides and excellent habitat for various species identify sources of nutrients and any other pollutants that may enter the dams.
8 Orange City Council 2.0 Review
Previous Studies (continued) • Consideration has been given to the alteration of the test program for the monitoring of water supply and quality assurance. Proposed monitoring procedures for such locations as the Gosling Creek Reservoir would include the performing of chemical and pesticide tests complemented by a reduction in the overall number of bacteriological tests that are presently being performed at various sites. • The main objective of the new monitoring program is to identify the sources of nutrients that may enter the system and allow for the development of control strategies. The easiest strategies to implement are in relation to “identified point sources”. Examples may include the discharge from septic tanks, intensive rural industries and runoff from land integrated with treated sewerage effluent. Nutrients may also be derived from “non-point sources” including runoff from grazing land, nutrient release from sediment washed into creeks from disturbed ground and the disturbance and polluting of creeks by stock. • Sites such as the Gosling Creek Reservoir can be monitored for nutrients, salts and solids with follow-up tests in the case where problems are identified.
5.0 Forestry • This section of report focus’ mainly on what to do with pine plantation timber • Suggests planting native species “such as Black Sally and Snow Gum” • and “Apart from the self funding of such a project, Council may seek financial assistance through government grants and job skills programs.”
6.2 Risk Management As of the 6th December 1993, the Gosling Creek Reservoir was incorporated under the Maintenance Service Level classification “C”. The following criteria relates to this category: • The reservoir is to be inspected and maintained on a weekly basis • Rubbish and other deleterious materials to be removed as necessary • Spraying to be carried out where applicable around trees, along drains, pits, fence lines and/or as directed At present, the dam is not used to the degree that it would warrant weekly inspection, etc. But it is anticipated that expansion of recreational activities would increase the level of public demand for the area.
7.0 Future Consideration Issues Pine Forest Areas Council needs to adopt a plan in relation to the future of the timber areas. Consideration needs to be given to encouraging the planting of native trees within the area. Water Quality Consideration need to be given to providing a more expansive water testing program, beyond that of bacteriological testing for water bodies such as the Gosling Creek Reservoir. Future testing should include an analysis of the content and source of nutrient, salt and solids within the creek. Recreational Activity Council needs to investigate the possibility of expanding recreational activities within the site of the Gosling Creek Reservoir. Recreational Activity Consideration may need to be given to the issue of access and parking within the Gosling Creek Reservoir. This would depend on the choice to expand recreational activity, affecting the level of public use of the area
Orange City Council 9 Gosling Creek Reserve Masterplan July 2001
2.4 Site Appraisal
Site Analysis Diagram
The diagram above summarises the key physical and cultural influences acting on the site that need to be taken into account in open space planning. Landscape units summary on the following page describes the continuous zones that can be identified on the site and which also provide cues for the development of open space and natural area management recommendations. The Reservoir foreshores were formerly dominated by a plantation of pine trees which have recently been harvested, leaving the northern part of the site barren except for a protected regeneration area where remnant copses of native trees have been fenced off. The southern side of the reservoir contains pine trees that are not suitable for commercial use, and which provide a visual buffer to adjoining rural lands. Bloomfield Park is an existing site for both passive and active recreation. The park is a linear corridor bordered by Gosling Creek and Bloomfield Road. The playing field area adjoining Bargwanna Road is characterised by ‘cultural’ landscape plantings incorporating mown grass areas and deciduous trees. It is used for social cricket games and picnics as well as bush walking and off-leash dog use. View accross Bloomfield Park from the existing picnic area To the east Bloomfield Park is typified by remnant tree canopy with a varied understorey of mown and native grasses and regenerating native understorey east of the existing small dam. Physical site features that affect future open space development of the site include: - ridge lines; - high points; - views; - slope; - existing vegetation; - isolated areas; and - limited width of the View accross Gosling Creek Reservoir from a high point to the west of the site, adjacent to Gosling Creek site at some points Vegetation character is diverse including the Pine Plantation adjoining the reservoir (cleared to the northern side – southern side predominantly incorporating timber not viable for harvesting). Stands of remnant tree canopy increase along the creek line to the east. Cultural planting’s of deciduous trees are present in Bloomfield Park and around the old caretakers cottage near the dam wall.
10 Orange City Council 2.0 Review
Landscape Units
D A O RO R IA AD D D CA ite B LO A OM S O g FIE L R D in in
jo R d OA A Native TreeD
Y
918 E Regeneratio L
T
T N
S U E n Zone R H O F Cleared Pine Plantation Existing 918 B B Picnic ROAD A D 916 r BLOOMFIEL 914 R a 912 G Area Playing Field n Open W d B Bush Regeneration A y us Bush N No.1 h Space N C R Farm Dam 892 A Clearing r eg e en e era Playing Field k Open tio n No.2 Space 4 9 8 RESERVOIR Gosling Creek (west) Gosling Creek (east) Cottage 89 9 8 0 8 /Former 0 96 Dam Wall Nursery 9 R 02 O A Dam Wall Wetland D 904
Mixed Forest 906
908
910 9 12
9 14
9 16
0 50 100 200m Landscape Units Diagram
The Gosling Creek Reserve site can be described as a series of precincts defined by similar landscape characteristics such as: topography, vegetation, and existing use. This assists to identify the extent of various issues and opportunities, and the feasibility of uses that may be suitable for particular physical areas. Precincts identified on the Landscape Units Diagram are as listed: Adjoining Site (Road Reserve Area -Corner of Bloomfield and Forest Road) Topography – Generally flat
Adjoining road reserve area Vegetation – Scattered mature native trees Existing Use – Parking for recreational fishermen General – Formerly Forest Road prior to realignment Cleared Pine Plantation Topography – Ridge line running through centre, gently sloping towards Bloomfield Road and the reservoir, steeper slopes adjoining waters edge Vegetation – Minimal due to clearing Existing Use – Harvested Pine Plantation Cleared pine plantation General – Priority for revegetation Native Tree Revegetation Zone Topography – Generally flat Vegetation – Significant stands of remnant Eucalyptus tree species and native grasses Existing Use – Fenced off for regeneration General – Good habitat for wildlife Gosling Creek (west) Topography – Gently sloping to steep banks Native tree copses Vegetation – Basket Willow (Salix sp.), Cumbungi Reeds Existing Use – Wetland, waterfowl habitat General – Overgrown with exotics and weeds
Gosling Creek Orange City Council 11 Gosling Creek Reserve Masterplan July 2001
Landscape Units (continued) Mixed Forest Topography – Sloping towards reservoir Vegetation – Radiata Pines (Pinus radiata) Existing Use – Wind break and visual screen to adjacent agricultural land General – Currently difficult to gain access to and through due to dense Mixed forest understorey, fallen trees, etc. Reservoir Reservoir Topography – Gentle to steep sloping banks Vegetation – Cumbungi reeds, Pine trees, Eucalyptus trees, exotic trees Existing Use – Fishing and water catchment General – Water storage capacity is limited due to reservoir depth of 2-3 metres Dam Wall Topography – Height varies, approx. 1-8 metres Vegetation – n/a Existing Use – Water retention General – Heritage structure - late 19th Century Dam Wall Wetland Dam wall Topography – Sloping at spillways and towards Dam wall wetland Gosling Creek Vegetation – Mixture of exotic plants, weeds and native trees Existing Use – Bank stabilisation General – Untidy and unsafe area due to slopes / reservoir drainage / age of dam wall Cottage / Former Nursery Topography – Generally flat to sloping towards Gosling Creek and Bargwanna Road Vegetation – Mixture of exotic and native species Existing Use – Leased from Council for private residence General – Cultural landscape character Cottage Existing Picnic Area (Bloomfield) Picnic Area Topography – Sloping towards playing fields and creeks Vegetation – Remnant native vegetation, mature deciduous trees, and mown grass Existing Use – Picnic/BBQ facilities provided General – Good views over village green / playing fields area Playing Field’s 1 & 2 Topography – Flat Vegetation – Mown grass Existing Use – Field No.1 - formerly baseball, Field No.2 - social cricket General – No.2 oval has better drainage and is Playing Fields the preferred of the two playing fields
12 Orange City Council 2.0 Review
Landscape Units (continued) Brandy Creek Topography – Steep channelised banks Vegetation – Mown grass, exotic tree species Existing Use – Drainage General – Unstable environment due to exotic vegetation on steep creek banks Open Space (adjoining Brandy Creek) Brandy Creek Topography – Flat Open space Vegetation – Mown grass Existing Use – Off leash dog area General – May be prone to flooding Bush Regeneration Area Topography – Sloping from Bloomfield Road towards Gosling Creek Vegetation – Mixed native trees and grasses Existing Use – Bush regeneration General – Varied quality of understorey and related level of weed impact Gosling Creek (east) Topography – Gently sloping to steep banks
Bush regeneration Vegetation – Exotic trees, weeds, native trees Gosling Creek Existing Use – Drainage, water supply General – Cultural character to southern banks Bush Clearing (former picnic area) Topography – Generally flat Vegetation – Mown grass Existing Use – Secondary picnic facilities General – Former vehicle access to site Farm Dam Topography – Generally flat to sloping Vegetation – Reeds, mown grass Existing Use – Water retention
Bush clearing General – Not well used for recreation or Farm dam wildlife purposes Open Space (adjoining Huntley Road) Topography – Sloping towards Gosling Creek Vegetation – Pasture grass, Basket Willows in Gosling Creek Existing Use – Pipe easement under part of site General – Distinctly different visual character to adjacent bush regeneration zone
Open Space
Orange City Council 13 Gosling Creek Reserve Masterplan July 2001
2.5 Usage A range of uses have been identified in previous studies and through the community workshop process as being desirable for consideration on the Gosling Creek Reservoir Site. In order to provide a master plan direction for the site that integrates harmonious recreation use with sustainable environmental management, an evaluation must be made of the compatibility of potential uses for the site. The matrix below provides an evaluation of the potential uses/activities for the site against several key criteria aimed at determining the most appropriate and compatible range of uses.
Use Description of Potential Advantages/ Significance Compatible Potential for Facilities Impacts/ Opportunities Uses Staging of Required Constraints Implementation 1. • Mown grass areas • Mown grass • Existing facilities • Picnic facilities • Generally • Potential to upgrade Picnic/BBQ • Tree planting maintenance is Bloomfield Park in a predominantly compatible with all facilities at existing foreshore labour intensive located in area with natural setting are other uses picnic/bbq area at • Gas or electric • Availability of high landscape not provided at • Consider safety Bloomfield Park bbq's electricity take-off value (mature trees Lake Canobolas issues related to • Potential to stage • Picnic benches limited and established cycle/horse access installation of new • Picnic shelter's grass cover) facilities such as bbq's, • Desirable to have picnic benches, picnic related playground shelters. Priority to establish vegetative grass cover
2. • Deck/jetty • Certain fish • Fishing and fish • Already • Compatible with all • Potential to stage Recreational desirable species may reduce stocking has been provided at Lake other uses installation of decks for Fishing / water quality on trial for the last Canobolas fishing/casting Fish couple of years stocking
3. • Deck/jetty • Certain fish • Fishing and fish • Already • Compatible with all • Potential to stage Fly fishing / desirable species may reduce stocking has been provided at Lake uses outside the clear installation of decks for Casting water quality on trial for the last Canobolas zone fishing/casting • Fly Casting couple of years requires clear zone around casting area and is incompatible with all other uses within this zone
4. • Deck/jetty or • May generate • Opportunity to • There are • Compatible with all • Swimmers could enter Swimming beach desirable to impact on water construct a multi- limited facilities other uses the water from the multi- provide entry into quality by the purpose jetty available in the purpose jetty the water stirring up of adjacent to the district for open • Potential to construct sediments from the existing cottage. water swimming beach area for swimming bottom of the This could also • Junior triathlon at later stage reservoir allow water access potential use • Evaluation for swimmers required of the silt • Opportunity to at the bottom of the construct swimming reservoir beach adjacent to multi-purpose jetty
5. Walking/ • Walking trails • Excessive path • Paths are useful • Potential link to • Compatible with • Potential to stage path running provision may in defining district path recreational cycling installation, main paths in detract from the maintenance areas system early stages, secondary natural setting of paths in later stages the park. Depends on path width and surface type • Potential conflict with horse riding and off leash dog use
6. • Cycle paths - • Excessive path • Opportunity to • There are • Compatible with • Potential to stage path Recreational asphalt preferred provision may link to district cycle limited facilities walking/jogging installation, main paths in cycling detract from the paths connecting available in the • Compatible with early stages, secondary natural setting of with the City of district for picnic/bbq's etc if paths in later stages the park. Depends on Orange, Lake recreational safety issues path width and Canobolas, etc. cycling addressed surface type • Potential conflict with horse riding and off leash dog use
14 Orange City Council 2.0 Review
Use Description of Potential Advantages/ Significance Compatible Potential for Facilities Impacts/ Opportunities Uses Staging of Required Constraints Implementation 7. • Dedicated cycle • Impacts on other • Opportunity to • If triathlons for • Potential conflicts • Potential is dependent Event paths or roads park users - stage Junior children are with most other park on path construction (see cycling temporarily closed safety/event noise triathlon events contained to the users/uses on event walking/running & to other users and numbers site, marshalling days - noise, recreational cycling) of roadways would monopolization of not be required space
8. • Parking facilities • May cause minimal • Opportunity to • There are • Equestrian facilities • Path system would be Horse riding for horse floats erosion (dependant provide path limited facilities relatively simple and • Horse tying rails & upon path dedicated for horse available in the cheap to construct watering trough construction) use only district for this • Other horse facilities • Separate path with • Nutrient run-off • Opportunity to use may be provided later if unpaved surface may effect water link to district cycle use is high enough to quality paths connecting justify their provision • Potential conflicts with the City of (tying rails, watering with other path Orange, Lake troughs) users Canobolas, etc.
9. • Mown grass area • Playing field • Cricket field • Facilities are • Compatible with all • n/a Active with cricket pitch / maintenance is already exists on not of the same other uses sports playing field relatively labour site standard that are intensive provided elsewhere in Orange
10. • Open mown grass • Potential conflict • Opportunity to • Existing off • Active recreation • n/a Off leash areas with most other retain existing off leash area is one dog use users of site leash dog area of three adjacent to Brandy designated areas Creek and playing in the City of fields Orange
Conclusions The site provides potential to cater for a range of recreational pursuits some of which are not adequately catered for in the Orange district. Ultimately the uses to be promoted on the site must balance community benefit with responsible environmental management. Stakeholders may also have to settle for compromise solutions in some cases which maximise the recreational diversity of the site, and minimise potential user conflicts. The uses resolved for inclusion in the master plan are listed below with any relevant qualifications: 1. Picnic / BBQ / Passive Recreation 6. Recreational Cycling - relate to areas of the site accessible by car - cater for through site access connecting to distant network - relate to path network - define pedestrian / cycle path surfaces - gas BBQ provision in the short term 7. Event Cycling 2. Recreational Fishing - potential use of cycle track for event use with closure - recreational fishing decks located away from other uses of Bloomfield Road at event times - construction of decks a long term priority - the development of a dedicated cycle loop and use for 3. Fly Casting event purposes is not believed to be sustainable within - long term provision on site with construction of decks the park area, and with the range of other uses proposed for the site - fly casting competitions on Lake Canobolas 8. Horse Riding 4. Swimming - through paths only connecting to district network - undertake sampling of reservoir sediment - no formed hard surface - slash native grasses to define - long term provision of deck access for canoes, etc in route cottage precinct - Consider long term provision of minor facilities (tying - consider beach as a long term possibility subject to rails, watering troughs) subject to use sediment quality 9. Active Sports 5. Walking / Running - maintain current active sports use of Bloomfield Park - major potential for through / loop path system 10. Off leash dog use - develop links to district network - retain current extent of off leash dog access to Bloomfield Park - Consider provision of dog waste bins
Orange City Council 15 Gosling Creek Reserve Masterplan July 2001
2.6 Pressures and Opportunities Pressures and Opportunities are specific factors to which management and planning strategies must respond, whilst recognising and maintaining the identified values and roles of the site. Pressures include impacts on the land or environment and potential conflicts between users or usage and other qualities of the site. Opportunities are inputs at the site’s physical and cultural character that will assist or promote the realisation of objectives. The pressures and opportunities summary following is related to the landscape units identified in section 2.4
Pressures Opportunities Adjoining Road Reserve Area • Not part of Gosling Creek Reserve land parcel • Include in study area • Potential site for car parking • Park entry signage Cleared Pine Plantation • Barren area, no existing vegetation • Revegetation (full community where possible) • Poor wildlife habitat • Open grassed areas • Uneven ground surface • Picnic/BBQ facilities • South-facing aspect at reservoir foreshores • Trail network (shade) Native Tree Regeneration Zone • High value due to lack of native vegetation in • Regeneration adjoining parts of the site • Revegetation (between existing copses) • Interpretation/Education Gosling Creek (west) • Water quality • Waterfowl/wildlife habitat • Siltation • Boardwalk to southern side of reservoir • Dumping/contamination • Environmental management (rehabilitation/weed • Weeds control) Mixed Forest • Poor landscape quality (weed encroachment) • Clear trees and understorey on lower slopes for • Pine trees screen ridgeline (short term revegetation retention required) • Retain trees on ridgeline as screening (short • Dense understorey blocks human access term) • Limited/difficult access to this area from • Open grassed areas northern side of reservoir • Trail network Reservoir • Water quality • Continue fish stocking • Siltation (shallow 2-3m depth) • Fishing (angling/fly casting) • Cumbungi reed encroachment • Test silt for contaminants • Non-powered boating • Swimming • Potential to dredge reservoir to increase water depth and quality Dam Wall • Aged condition - need for ongoing maintenance • Restoration of boardwalk • Safety - no railing on existing boardwalk, • Connect walking trail to southern side via timber rotten steel/timber boardwalk controlled access • Good views over site • Interpretation/education Dam Wall Wetland • Safety - personal (visibility), structural (dam • Restrict access wall) • Environmental management (rehabilitation/ • Narrow part of site weed control / revegetation) • Drainage - ground water logged • Untidy - machinery, concrete pads, chainwire fence
16 Orange City Council 2.0 Review
Pressures and Opportunities (continued) Pressures Opportunities Cottage/Former Nursery • Private residence (leased from Council) • AC power supply • Potential caretakers cottage • Potential to enable information / interpretation centre • Café/restaurant • Toilet facilities Existing Picnic Area (Bloomfield) • Deteriorated facilities • Mature park character • Vehicle access • Focal point of reserve site • Anti-social behavior • Rationalisation of existing parking • Restrict vehicle access (park management) • Improve existing facilities /amenities Playing Field's 1 & 2 • Low grade sporting facility - distance from • Existing 'village green' cultural character (Elm CBD, no lights or irrigation & Poplar tree planting) • Sporting club use • Social cricket games • Off leash dog use Brandy Creek • Water quality • Improve/replace existing creek crossings • Erosion of banks • Environmental management (rehabilitation/weed • Weeds control) • Location of crossing points
Open Space (adjoining Brandy Ck) • Maintenance/mowing areas not properly defined • Reduce size of maintained grass area • Prone to flooding • Revegetate part of area • Retain majority for continued off leash dog use Bush Regeneration Area • Good native bush regeneration area • Expand extent of existing regeneration • Personal safety (visibility) • Trail network Gosling Creek (east) • Water quality (nutrients) • Access corridor for tail network • Erosion of banks • Swamp deck across flood prone areas • Weeds • Interpretation/education • Flooding • Environmental management (rehabilitation/weed • Property boundary - dual ownership control)
Bush Clearing (former picnic area) • Bloomfield Park POM suggests de-emphasis on • Improve/replace existing picnic facilities with this picnic area (repetition of facilities) emphasis on horse/bridle use Farm Dam • Poorly designed • Revegetation around dam • Occupies a large area in a part of the site which - stop maintaining grass is quite narrow • Maintained grass Open Space (adjoining Huntley Road) • Pipe easement underground • Revegetation • Site exposure to Huntley Road • Park entry point • Interpretation signage
Orange City Council 17
3.0 Master Plan
3.1 Masterplanning Principles Based on the study teams analysis of the site and the inputs from the community workshop forums these general principles have been established to guide the development of a master plan for the site. • Promote recreational uses that are compatible with the sites physical characteristics and with each other. • Provide a sustainable level of facilities to adequately cater for recreational use. • Develop and integrate an internal path network catering for pedestrians, joggers, cyclists, and horse / bridle use. • Link internal path system with a future regional network of paths. • Extend areas of native vegetation to native revegetation areas; provide full vegetation community where possible. • Maintain existing exotic planting’s not responsible for environmental conflicts and explore opportunities for refinement of deciduous planting where appropriate. • Limit and define extent of maintained grassland. • Cater for vehicular access to reserve and an appropriate level of car parking without compromising natural and recreational values
3.2 Concept Master Plan Options With the Masterplanning Principles in mind, three separate master plan options were prepared, and presented at Community Workshop No.2. The variations in the three options relate principally to path / trail alignment, extent of maintained grassland, and the arrangement of car parking. Features and elements common to all three options include: • Path connections catering for a variety of users – walking, jogging, recreation cycling, minor competition cycling, horse / bridle trails (connection to regional network). • Typical trail network characteristics – direct linkages between activities where possible, practical surfaces, maximise accessibility by elderly / disabled users, desire lines, treatment of path junctions, use of paths to define maintenance zones • Vegetation / Maintenance types include - maintained grass with tree planting for shade / shelter - trees in native grass (slashed 1-2 times per year to maintain visual site lines under tree canopy) - full native revegetation - deciduous accent / shade tree planting’s • Interpretive signage explaining: site development and staging, Gosling Creek Reserve trails, district network of trails, historical information, etc. • Picnic facilities – benches, bbq’s, shelters, developed over staged programme • Viewing platforms / observation areas • Boardwalks over sensitive / inaccessible areas – steel / timber construction including seating, and interpretative signage • Car parking provided to serve recreation areas – can be developed in stages as park use grows • Public art opportunities • Horse facilities (as destination for stop over on district horse trails) • Habitat protection areas and creek rehabilitation – restriction of access • Creek line foreshore zone – enhanced natural ecosystem • Visual buffer to south of reservoir – retain ridge line pine planting in short term until revegetation is established The stakeholders were asked to comment on the Options (refer Workshop notes in Appendix). Most comments related to the various features in the plans, and these comments were taken into consideration for the development of the preferred Master Plan.
Orange City Council 19 Gosling Creek Reserve Masterplan July 2001
Concept Master Plan Options (continued) Option 1
Key Characteristics Paths - Provision of pathways to define maintenance areas and cater to user desire lines Vegetation - Extensive areas of revegetation including open space area adjoining Brandy Creek Vehicle Access - Drop off area and short term / disabled parking area adjacent to cottage and dam wall - Removal of access in Bloomfield Park Car Parking - Adjacent to reservoir access road / cottage - Intersection of Forest and Bloomfield Road including horse float parking - 90 degree parking along Bloomfield Road adjacent to horse picnic area and trail heads
Option 2
Key Characteristics Paths - Reduction in pathway length relative to Option 1 Vegetation - Less areas of revegetation than Option 1 - Increased areas of mown grass relative to Option 1 Vehicle Access - As per Option 1 Car Parking - As per Option 1 - Additional 90 degree parking along Bargwanna Road adjacent to trail heads
20 Orange City Council 3.0 Master Plan
Concept Master Plan Options (continued) Option 3
Key Characteristics Paths - Path configuration similar to option 1, but with varied alignment on southern side of the reservoir including access to Forest Road Vegetation - Extensive areas of revegetation including around the farm dam and open space area adjoining Brandy Creek Vehicle Access - Drop off area and short term / disabled parking area adjacent to cottage and dam wall (as per Option 1) - Rationalisation and realignment of car parking at Bloomfield Park to reduce its impact on the existing picnic area Car Parking - As per Option 1 but with parking retained in Bloomfield Park
Community Comments Park features - Potential provision of playground to serve passive recreational areas - Potential fitness equipment provision spread along length of path system - Cycle related facilities – cycle racks, activities for younger cyclists - Potential jetty to cater for canoe launching, etc incorporating disabled water access - Potential integration of a beach foreshore area with the boardwalk / jetty - Provision of activities along path system – fitness, signage, etc - Cottage might be used as caretaker’s residence and/or kiosk in the future
Paths - Avoid conflicts between different path users where possible [Note: Ultimately if the site is to be developed for passive recreational use it may not be large enough to sustain senior competition cycling and other events. Provision for junior events can be integrated, but only where able to be part of a shared system (maximising use) that may require some event day management] - Horse trail use at Gosling Creek Reserve only works as part of a wider network – could be a good destination in the network – this would require provision of horse facilities ie. tying rail, watering trough, etc - Potential for future Cycle Path along Forest Road - Continue cycle / horse trails north along Huntley Road - Too many paths currently proposed - Provide a path loop to the southern side of the reservoir – using asphalt paths
Orange City Council 21 Gosling Creek Reserve Masterplan July 2001
Vegetation - Avoid disturbing mature native trees during path development - Retain flat open grassed area west of Brandy Creek as part of the off leash dog area - Allow native vegetation regeneration around farm dam - Potential grass or beach area to south side, to maximise northern aspect - Retain a sustainable amount of deciduous trees in parkland and to reflect Orange’s character as Colour City
Vehicle access - Preference for Bloomfield Reserve to have no internal vehicle access – parking to be kept to external roadway’s (Bloomfield and Bargwanna Road) - Potential closure of Bargwanna Road to through traffic to be considered to enable reserve to be one continuous land parcel [Note: road closure issue would need to be evaluated by Council separately]
Car parking - Angle parking along Bargwanna Road would be a good use of space
Park - Strategies for night access / management required Management - Off leash dog area defined as the area between the above mentioned location and Bargwanna Road - Prevent illegal vehicle access on pathways
3.3 Preferred Master Plan The list below describes the design features proposed for inclusion in the preferred Master Plan. The numbered items correspond with the circled numbers on the Plan. 1. Path type 1 - Shared pedestrian / cycle path This is the primary path type on the site. Its alignment will run approximately east-west and make connections with the district pathways including links to the CBD, Lake Canobolas, and Canobolas State Forest. It is intended that this pathway will be four metres wide with an Shared pedestrian / cycle path asphalt surface and a path alignment that allows for the maximum path gradient to be no - asphalt pavement 2.5m wide more than 1:14 (to enable disabled access). Refer typical treatments for examples. 2. Path type 2 - Horse / bridle path A route along the northern site boundary is proposed that limits conflicts with other park users and reduces nutrient runoff into the reservoir. It is envisaged that the trail would be approximately five metres wide with a native grass surface, to be slashed on a regular basis. The trail should connect with a district network of linking trails in the future. 3. Path type 3 - Shared pedestrian / cycle path Secondary shared pedestrian / cycle paths which provide access on alignments where path gradient is no greater than 1:14. Typically 2.5m wide asphalt surface with timber edge. 4. Path type 4 - Pedestrian path (unsealed) Tertiary paths which provides pedestrian access to park users. Path gradient may be steeper than 1:14. Typically 1.5m wide stabilised gravel surface with timber edge. 5. Main car park (access via Bargwanna Road) A 6.5m wide road is proposed to provide vehicle access between the dam wall / cottage area and Bargwanna Road. Car parking is proposed to either side of the road, typically in 90 degree bays with ten car spaces. Parking bays may be paved in a stabilised road base surface. It is proposed that a first stage development may include the asphalt access road and turning circle, short term parking and two parking bays (20 parking spaces). 6. Secondary car park (corner of Forest and Bloomfield Road) A car park including horse unloading area and horse float parking is proposed to occupy the Forest Road road reserve area adjacent to the site. Designed to cater for park users with horses and those who wish to gain access to the western end of the site, it will provide 30 car spaces and 10 horse float/trailer spaces.
Car park
22 Orange City Council 3.0 Master Plan
Preferred Master Plan (continued) 7. Horse rest area car park Proposed as a long term strategy subject to park use by people with horses, the car park will provide ten 90 degree car spaces to service the horse rest / picnic area. 8. Maintained grass areas adjoining dam foreshores Mown grass areas will provide areas for passive recreation around the dam foreshores including picnic/bbq use, and general family informal play use.
9. Upgraded picnic area (Bloomfield Park) Picnic benches It is anticipated that increased use of the park will justify upgrading the existing picnic area at Bloomfield park including: picnic benches, bbq’s and amenities. The established planting, ‘village green’ character, and central location will make this area of the park an attraction at Gosling Creek Reserve. 10. Steel or timber boardwalk through reed beds Boardwalks will provide access through ecologically sensitive areas and act as observation/ interpretation areas for the surrounding environment. 11. Steel or timber boardwalk to top of dam wall A boardwalk along the top of the dam wall will provide access to the southern side of the reservoir and give the park users a unique perspective from which they can view their surrounding environment. 12. Native revegetation (full community) Native revegetation will stabilise the disturbed site soil, provide a visual screen and wind break, and attract native fauna to the area. It will create indigenous plant communities with full vegetative strata including grasses/groundcovers, shrubs and trees and will develop a natural environment on the site which will be an attraction to park users. Native revegetation 13. Native grassing Open areas of native grass will provide a low maintenance alternative to traditional mown grass, and contribute to the ‘native character’ of the site. 14. Native grassing with native tree canopy This style of revegetation has similar benefits to full community native revegetation, but maintains sight lines underneath the tree canopy to enable surveillance. 15. Gosling Creek Environmental management of Gosling Creek should include the removal of weeds and staged removal of exotics. Bank stabilisation works will be carried out in coordination with native revegetation techniques, designed to improve the native environment and encourage waterfowl and other native fauna. 16. Dam foreshore It is intended that around most of the reservoir margins where the banks are quite steep, there will be a zone of native reeds, grasses, groundcovers and shrubs to stabilise the edge and prevent access to the reservoir. Dam foreshore 17. Existing Cottage The existing cottage located adjacent to the dam wall has power supply (unique to the site) and is typified by its “cultural” landscape character. In future stages of park development we recommended that it be adapted for use as an interpretation centre / kiosk / toilets. Related courtyard area with deciduous shade tree planting would complement this use. 18. Jetty The proposed jetty will be accessible from a boardwalk running parallel to the dam wall. It will be used for launching canoes, fishing, and also provide water access to swimmers via a submerged deck. 19. Canoe / gear drop-off turning circle An access road with asphalt surface typically 6.5 metres wide provides vehicle access to dam wall / cottage area. Short stay / disabled parking will be provided adjacent to turn around circle.
Jetty
Orange City Council 23 Gosling Creek Reserve Masterplan July 2001
Preferred Master Plan (continued) 20. Regional shared cycle / pedestrian pathway A shared cycle/pedestrian pathway is a separate initiative by Orange City Council and will be included in a network of trails linking the district in the future. At present the pathway extends down Forest Road to the Agricultural Research Station, however there are plans to extend this to meet the Gosling Creek Reserve. When this connection is made it will be much easier to reach the site without a car. 21. Park facilities information sign Park facilities information sign Park signage will be provided at the main entries to the site. It will describe the staging of the site construction including revegetation, path construction and park elements / features. There will be a map that shows park users their location relative to the site, and also the location of the park in relation to the district open space network. 22. Viewing / landmark tower A viewing landmark tower is proposed for construction on one of the sites high points in future stages of the project. It will provide a unique view of the site, and will also act as a landmark for the site when viewed from Forest Road. 23. Fly casting / angling deck Unlike the casting decks at Lake Canobolas, these decks are proposed to be multipurpose and provide recreational opportunities for passive recreational users too. 24. Existing pine plantings to ridgeline A vegetative buffer of existing pine trees approximately 40-50 metres wide will be retained in the short term until native vegetation is established on the lower slopes. This strip of existing planting will screen wind and act as a backdrop to views across the reservoir. 25. Southern foreshores and lower slopes The pine trees and weed understorey will be removed from the southern foreshores and lower slopes and replaced with native revegetation. 26. Wetland area below dam wall This part of the site is unsafe due to uneven ground surface, spillways, and lack of visual Composting toilet surveillance. It should kept off limits to general park users, and undergo extensive environmental management in order to remove weeds, and exotic plantings and reinstate native vegetation to stabilise banks. 27. Sandy beach for swimmers It is intended that a beach area be provided for swimmers at a later stage if there is a demand for this activity and if swimming proves to have minimal effect upon the water quality in the reservoir. 28. Maintained grass area (North facing) Native grass areas will provide areas for passive recreation around the dam foreshore’s. The location of these areas on the southern side of the reservoir offers a north facing orientation (solar passive), however it is harder to gain access for the maintenance of these areas. 29. Bargwanna Road During the later stages of construction Bargwanna Road should be sealed with asphalt to improve access by park users and local residents. It may also be possible to close Bargwanna Road to through traffic, although this is unnecessary as the through traffic volumes are relatively low and the physical barrier of the road has only limited effect on park use as it separates two distinctly different character’s and uses of the park. 30. Relocated amenities block In the later stages of park construction the existing amenities block in Bloomfield Park will be replaced with a composting toilet to reduce environmental impact. Its new location adjacent to a path junction will increase accessibility to park users and encourage passive surveillance. 31. Maintained grass area (horse rest area) This existing grass area will be maintained and improved as a seperate picnic area for Bargwanna Road park users with horses. It is anticipated that there will be an increased demand for these facilities when the district open space trail network becomes more established.
24 Orange City Council 3.0 Master Plan
Preferred Master Plan (continued) 32. Maintained grass areas in Bloomfield Park This area includes the existing playing fields and grass area adjacent to Brandy Creek. It will be maintained in its current condition with increased definition of the boundaries of this area. Use will include active recreation on the playing fields and passive recreation in other areas. This section of the park is designated for off-leash dog use. 33. Playground A playground is proposed at a major path junction adjacent to the main car park, and will provide a stimulating play experience for children at the Gosling Creek Reserve. Playground 34. Fitness Stations Fitness stations consisting of hard wearing equipment suitable for exercises and interpretive information will be placed along path type 1 at regular intervals. 35. Bargwanna Road Parking Parking bays that provide 90 degree parking for five cars are proposed for several locations on Bargwanna road adjacent to trail heads. Parking bays may typically be paved in a stabilised road base surface. 36. Bird Hides Timber bird hides are proposed in future stages of park development for construction on the southern side of the reservoir adjacent to Gosling Creek. They will blend in with the natural surroundings and provide park users with the opportunity to view water fowl Fitnes station undetected. 37. Reservoir viewing / rest area A landscape feature area is proposed at a relative high point on the north western side of the reservoir, with good views over the reservoir and dam wall. The viewing / rest area (refer Typical Treatments page 28) occurs at a major path junction and offers park users an opportunity for passive recreation. It is envisaged that basalt would be used in the construction of low walls and flagstone paving. 38. Bird Refuge Islands Construction of bird refuge islands in the reservoir close to the entry of Gosling Creek will improve the wildlife habitat for water fowl and encourage nesting. The islands should be vegetated with native reeds, grasses, shrubs, and trees to offer protection from the south- westerly winds and create an attractive nesting habitat for birds and water fowl. The islands should be constructed so that there is a stretch of water approximately 6-7 metres wide between the island and reservoir shore line to prevent predators such as feral cats and foxes from gaining access.
Orange City Council 25
3.0 Master Plan
3.4 Typical Treatments The following typical treatments develop in further detail aspects of the master plan proposals and/or provide examples of the materials and design treatments suitable for use in development of Gosling Creek Reserve. Car Park / Cottage Area We envisage that this area will provide a focal point of activity on the site. It is located in the approximate centre of the site adjacent to the existing dam wall and has an established cultural landscape character due to the mixture of exotic and native plantings. There is also the provision of services including power and water which are currently unavailable elsewhere on the site. An access road is proposed in the early stages that will provide the only vehicle access to the site including a turn around / drop off area incorporating short term parking and bays of 90 degree angle parking to the sides of this road.
Shared path type 1 - 4m
wide asphalt path with timber
edge
Shared path type 3 - 2.5m wide asphalt path with timber
edge
Pedestrian path type 4 -
1.5m wide stabilised gravel
path with timber edge
D A O R
Mown grass area Playground
Pavement node at path
ROAD junction Car park
S Steel or timber boardwalk S
E
C A
C Existing dam wall A N N
A
Jetty W Car park G Deciduous shade trees R A
B
Paved courtyard Existing cottage
0 10 20 30m
Detail plan showing park nodal area including proposed main car park and existing cottage
Typical edge treatments to car park
Gravel pavement, timber bollard, gravel pavement Road base pavement, Timber bollards set in partial concrete kerb concrete edge
Orange City Council 27 Gosling Creek Reserve Masterplan July 2001
Typical Treatments (continued) Landscape features / elements Landscape features and elements are the proposed facilities provided to park users as required for various types of active and passive recreation. These facilities include viewing areas, interpretive signage, fitness stations, park benches, picnic tables, bbq’s and picnic shelters.
Shared path type 3 - 2.5m wide asphalt path with timber edge
Native bushland Ramp regeneration area
Viewing / rest area AA Lower level Deciduous shade trees providing Autumn colour Open native grassed to park focal point area Shared path type 1 - 4m wide asphalt path with Pedestrian path type 4 timber edge - 1.5m wide stabilised gravel path with timber edge 0 5 10m Detail plan of viewing/rest area
Deciduous shade trees providing Autumn Native bushland colour to park focal regeneration area point
Open native grassed area
Lower level Viewing / rest area
Section AA (n.t.s.)
Picnic shelter Picnic bench Fitness equipment
28 Orange City Council 3.0 Master Plan
Typical Treatments (continued) Boardwalks Boardwalks are proposed for use at Gosling Creek Reserve to gain access to areas where an on-ground path connection would not be possible. Proposed steel or timber boardwalk along the top of the dam wall and at a point on Gosling Creek west of the reservoir will provide pedestrian access to park users wanting to reach the southern side of the reservoir. A proposed low deck will provide “year round” access to flood affected areas in Bloomfield Park adjacent to Gosling Creek. As well as providing access, boardwalks offer facilities for recreation such as fishing Proposed boardwalks provide recreation opportunities including fishing and swimming and swimming, and path users the opportunity to view their surrounds from an elevated perspective.
Boardwalks used for passive recreation
Typical section through proposed boardwalk over the top of the existing dam wall
Boardwalks used to gain access to hard to reach areas
Orange City Council 29 Gosling Creek Reserve Masterplan July 2001
Vegetation Types Typical Treatments (continued) Vegetation types Revegetation of the Gosling Creek Reserve site is of high importance primarily due to the large extent of cleared areas on the northern side of the reservoir. Revegetation should be carried out in the early stages of the project to stabilise the ground surface and prevent runoff into the water supply. It is proposed that native plants which are indigenous to the site and / or surrounding area should be used because they will attract native birds and animals. Principles • Revegetate barren areas of the site with predominantly Mown Grass Areas Native Grass Areas native planting • Regenerate understorey of existing bushland areas (Bloomfield Park) • Reduce weed infestation of creeks and supplement with native planting • Provide mown grass and native grass areas for passive recreation • Define maintenance types with path system where possible • Provide deciduous planting, limited to high use areas where winter sun is required and autumn colour is appropriate. Vegetation types: • Maintained grass with tree planting • Native tree canopy with native grass understorey Trees in Native Grass • Full native revegetation • Deciduous accent / shade plantings • Wetland weed management
Full Native Community
Revegetation Techniques
Virocell prior to planting Revegetation area shortly Revegetation area one year Revegetation area two years after planting after planting after planting
30 Orange City Council 3.0 Master Plan
Typical Treatments (continued) Path treatments As vehicle use on site is limited to the cottage area, access through the site is predominantly via pathways for pedestrians, cyclists and horses. Park users are encouraged to use alternative forms of transport (other than cars) to reach the site such as bicycles and/or horses, via the proposed network of linking pathways connecting to the CBD and throughout the district. Pathways are a source of passive and active recreation on the site and cater to a variety of uses - walking, jogging, recreation cycling, minor competition cycling, horse bridle trails.
Pathway types are categorised by path user, surface Pathways follow desire lines and guide user movement between site features as well type and width. as in, out of the reserve
Pathways define vegetation maintenance types
Raised thresholds make drivers aware of path users at points where conflict could occur such as roadway crossings
Orange City Council 31
4.0 Staged Works Action Plan
4.1 Priorities Consideration must be given to the phasing of reserve development as Council will not have sufficient funding to construct the whole park in one stage. It is suggested that elements constructed in the first stage would address high priority environmental issues such as revegetation of the former pine plantation to the north of the reservoir, definition of parking areas, signage, and critical path development. 4.2 Works Action Plan The Works Action Plan (commencing below) identifies tasks and areas of work which need to be addressed in order to implement the park development works and management requirements.
Indicative Possible No. Item Priority Cost Action Type Funding Sources Activities Required Comment Estimate PREPARATORY / PRELIMINARY ACTIVITIES • Carry out exploratory Test reservoir investigations sediments to a. High $5,000.00 Investigation Council • Review outcomes, incorporate determine into detailed design brief contamination • Prepare detailed design / Develop brief for documentation brief to incorporate detailed design / Planning / staged implementation works b. documentation High Design Council incorporating consultation • Prepare site ground survey for c. Site survey High $15,000.00 Planning / Council construction design stages Design • Carry out detailed design / Design 5% of agreed Planning / documentation of staged d. development and High cost budget Design implementation works incorporating documentation Consultation STAGE ONE WORKS - Northern foreshore revegetation of former pine plantation area and basic facility provision • Carry out site works including: - remove piles of wood chips from revegetation area (and stockpile for a. Site clean up High $2,000.00 Capital works Council re-use on site if required) - removal of remaining tree stumps - surface trimming (grading)
• Remove weeds from revegetation area Council / • Apply pre-emergent spray prior to b. Weed eradication High $71,610.00 Capital works National planting Heritage Trust • Carry out works to construct base Temporary path courses to pedestrian and cycle paths provision through (excluding horse / bridle paths) construction of sub to include: base to facilitate - setout of paths construction and c. Temporary paths High $178,640.00 Capital works Council - grading of path alignment and maintenance adjoining areas access and - preparation of path base course to recreational use required width
Recreational • Carry out revegetation works to grassing including: $302,100.00 - native grassing to planting zone Native - recreational grassed surface to grassing grassed areas $57,000.00 Council / - tree & shrub planting d. Mass planting High Native Capital works National - macrophyte / edge planting to revegetation Heritage Trust reservoir margins $776,975.00 - plant establishment / maintenance Foreshore planting $12,550.00
• Carry out works to improve existing car park (located adjacent to the intersection of Forest Road and Bloomfield Road) by defining entrance/exit, roadway and parking bays e. Formalize existing High $113,400.00 Capital works Council including: car park - grading - pavement construction - barriers - re-establishment of grassed areas disturbed during construction
• Install interpretive signage at entry to Entry / interpretive the Gosling Creek Reserve adjacent to f. signage Medium $5,000.00 Capital works Council the existing car park on Forest Road
STAGE TWO WORKS - Southern foreshore clearing and revegetation • Cut down and remove trees on the lower slopes of reservoir foreshores Clearing of pine • Retain and protect native trees a. trees on lower High $2,000.00 Capital works Council • Retain existing pine trees along slopes ridgeline (to better views of adjoining rural properties)
• Carry out site works including: b. Site clean up High $3,000.00 Capital works Council - removal of remaining tree stumps - surface trimming (grading) • Carry out works to construct base Temporary path courses to pedestrian and cycle paths provision through (excluding horse / bridle paths) construction of sub to include: base to facilitate - setout of paths construction and c. Temporary paths High $71,785.00 Capital works Council - grading of path alignment and maintenance adjoining areas access and - preparation of path base course to recreational use required width
Orange City Council 33 Gosling Creek Reserve Masterplan July 2001
Works Action Plan (Continued)
Indicative Possible No. Item Priority Cost Action Type Funding Sources Activities Required Comment Estimate STAGE TWO WORKS (CONTINUED) - Southern foreshore clearing and revegetation • Carry out works to remove weeds from revegetation area and from area where pine trees are to be retained d. Weed eradication High $80,180.00 Capital works Council • Apply pre-emergent weed treatment prior to planting
Native • Carry out revegetation works to grassing including: $4,500.00 - native grassing Native - tree & shrub planting revegetation Council / - macrophyte / edge planting to e. Mass planting High $573,578.00 Capital works National reservoir margins Foreshore Heritage Trust - plant establishment / maintenance planting $6,200.00
STAGE THREE WORKS - Gosling Creek environmental management • Carry out works to prevent recreational access to wetland area below the dam wall including: a. Restrict access High $6,750.00 Capital works Council / Management - installation of appropriate fencing - installation of signage
• Carry out works to improve creek environment to both the eastern and western side of the reservoir including the wetland area adjacent to the dam Western arm wall to include: Environmental $10,790.00 Council / - removal of weeds and exotic b. management High Below dam Capital works National vegetation (basket willow) wall Heritage Trust - revegetation with native tree and $23,940.00 shrub planting - stabilisation of creek banks
STAGE FOUR WORKS - Reservoir car park and northern foreshores path finalisation • Finalise with wearing surface all pedestrian and cycle paths (excluding horse/bridle paths) to the northern side of the reservoir including: - any make good works required to a. Path network High $188,440.00 Capital works Council sub base - asphalt surface installation - re-establishment of grassed areas disturbed during finalisation works
• Construct access road to reservoir, turning circle, short term parking, and two parking bays (ten cars each bay located close to the existing cottage) including: - grading b. Main site carpark High $82,580.00 Capital works - pavement construction - re-establishment of grassed areas disturbed during construction - landscape works - pavement threshold
• Design timber jetty to cater for canoe and junior triathlon water access Timber access c. Medium $70,000.00 Capital works Council • Integrate disabled water access jetty provision
• Construct four car parking bays (five car parks per bay) along Bargwanna Road adjacent to trail heads including: - grading Bargwanna Road d. Medium $9,875.00 Capital works - pavement construction car parking bays - barriers - re-establishment of grassed areas disturbed during construction
STAGE FIVE WORKS - Reservoir, boardwalk and southern foreshores path development • Construct steel or timber boardwalk over Gosling Creek (west of the reservoir) to provide pedestrian and cycle access to the southern side of a. Boardwalk High $140,000.00 Capital works the reservoir incorporating a observation/seating deck centered over the creek
• Finalise with wearing surface all pedestrian and cycle paths (excluding horse/bridle paths) to the northern side of the reservoir including: - any make good works required to b. Path network High $62,075.00 Capital works Council sub base - asphalt surface installation - re-establishment of grassed areas disturbed during finalisation works
34 Orange City Council 4.0 Staged Works Action Plan
Works Action Plan (Continued)
Indicative Possible No. Item Priority Cost Action Type Funding Sources Activities Required Comment Estimate STAGE SIX WORKS - Bloomfield, path establishment and planting • Construct pedestrian and cycle path links (asphalt and gravel) to Bloomfield Park including: - grading a. Path network High $252,780.00 Capital works - path construction (sub base and surface) - re-establishment of grassed areas disturbed during construction
• Carry out revegetation works to Bloomfield Park including: - native grass planting b. Mass planting High $208,000.00 Capital works - tree & shrub planting - plant establishment
• Carry out works to improve Gosling and Brandy Creek adjacent to Bloomfield Park including: - removal of weeds and exotic c. Environmental High $98,120.00 Capital works vegetation (basket willow) management - revegetation with native tree and shrub planting - stabilisation of creek banks
STAGE SEVEN WORKS - Dam wall boardwalk access link • Construct steel or timber boardwalk over the top of the existing dam wall incorporating heritage deck remains Dam wall a. Medium $267,000.00 Capital works where possible boardwalk • Construct observation/seating deck centred over midpoint of dam wall
STAGE EIGHT WORKS - Gosling Creek Reserve, Bridle trail • Setout trail alignment through native Establishment of grass revegetation areas horse / bridle trails • Begin ongoing maintenance (slashing at Gosling Creek of native grass surface) Reserve Council day Capital works dependant on a. Bridle trail Medium labor / Maintenance development of off site regional path network links
STAGE NINE WORKS - Reservoir, picnic facilities and extension of car parking • Carry out works to construct picnic Quantities of facilities including: facilities to be - four picnic shelters provided is a. Picnic facilities Medium $61,800.00 Capital works - four gas bbq's dependant on - six picnic benches demand from park - four park benches users
• Construct six additional parking bays (ten cars per bay) adjacent to asphalt access road (stage four works) including: Main carpark - grading b. extension Medium $32,345.00 Capital works - pavement construction - carpark barriers - re-establishment of grassed areas disturbed during construction
STAGE TEN WORKS - Bloomfield Park, removal of existing car park and general improvement of facilities • Carry out removal works to existing car park in Bloomfield Park including: - removal of existing cattlegrid Removal of a. Medium $2,500.00 Capital works - removal of existing road surface existing car park - revegetation of former car park / road area with trees, shrubs, and grassing
• Carry out contract works to demolish and existing amenities block Removal of b. Medium $3,000.00 Capital works including: amenities block - re-grading area - revegetation of area with grassing • Carry out works to construct composting toilets including: - earthworks - toilet structure c. Composting toilet Medium $80,000.00 Capital works - path link to main path network - re-establish grass areas disturbed during construction
Orange City Council 35 Gosling Creek Reserve Masterplan July 2001
Works Action Plan (Continued)
Indicative Possible No. Item Priority Cost Action Type Funding Sources Activities Required Comment Estimate STAGE TEN WORKS (CONTINUED) - Bloomfield Park, removal of existing car park and general improvement of facilities • Carry out works to construct picnic facilities including: - three picnic shelters d. Picnic facilities Medium $47,100.00 Capital works - three gas bbq's - four picnic benches - three park benches
• Construct low level steel or timber swamp deck (no handrails required) e. Swamp deck Medium $70,000.00 Capital works over flood prone area adjacent to Gosling Creek
STAGE ELEVEN WORKS - Gosling Creek Reserve, additional facilities • Carry out works to adapt existing cottage for use as an interpretation centre / kiosk / toilets including: Adapt existing a. Medium $150,000.00 Capital works - construction works to building cottage - landscape works to building surrounds (ie. paving and planting)
• Construct two angling decks to the western side of the reservoir b. Fly casting / Medium $10,000.00 Capital works angling decks foreshores
• Construct two steel or timber bird hides on the southern foreshores of Gosling Creek adjacent to the c. Bird hides Medium $13,500.00 Capital works boardwalk and reservoir • Provide boardwalk / path access link to main path STAGE TWELVE WORKS - Bargwanna Road, paved surface • Carry out works to construct This stage should asphaltic concrete pavement to not be constructed Bargwanna Road integrated with 90 if future road degree car parking implemented in closure is likely a. Paved road Low $112,800.00 Capital works surface stage four works to include: - base course preparation - asphalt seal
• Carry out works to construct three raised pavement thresholds where paths cross roadways including: Raised pavement - grading b. thresholds Medium $12,900.00 Capital works - pavement construction - re-establishment of grassed areas disturbed during construction
STAGE FOURTEEN WORKS - Bloomfield, horse rest area facilities • Carry out works to construct picnic Provision of these facilities including: facilities is - one picnic shelter dependent upon - one gas bbq demand from - two picnic benches horse riders - one horse tying rail using the park a. Picnic facilities Medium $15,000.00 Capital works - one watering trough in connection - one park bench with a network of connecting trails throughout the district
• Construct a car parking bay (five car parks) along Bloomfield Road adjacent to horse rest area including: - grading Bargwanna Road b. Medium $2,530.00 Capital works - pavement construction Car parking bays - barriers - re-establishment of grassed areas disturbed during construction
STAGE FOURTEEN WORKS - Reservoir, viewing / rest area • Carry out works to a construct a viewing rest area including: - earthworks a. Viewing / rest area Medium $17,500.00 Capital works - low walls - pavement - deciduous shade tree planting
STAGE FIFTEEN WORKS - Reservoir, beach to foreshore • Carry out works to a construct a Provision of these 'sandy beach' area for swimmers facilities is adjacent to the proposed jetty dependent upon the demand for a. Beach area Low $8,750.00 Capital works recreational swimming at the site
STAGE SIXTEEN WORKS - Reservoir, landmark viewing tower • Carry out works to construct a a. Landmark viewing Low $40,000.00 Capital works landmark viewing tower tower STAGE SEVENTEEN WORKS - Bargwanna Road, road closure • Carry out works to terminate Provision of these Bargwanna Road at entrance to main facilities is car park including: dependent upon - construction of turning circle at the demand and park entry park use Roadworks - removal of existing road surface and a. Road termination Low $25,000.00 Capital works raised paving threshold's between Revegetation car park entrance and Gosling Creek $18,900.00 - revegetation of former road area with tree's, shrub's, and grassing - construction of pathways to connect across former road area
36 Orange City Council 4.0 Staged Works Action Plan 4.3 Costing The following costing identifies construction costs for the implementation of works required in realising the landscape master plan. GOSLING CREEK RESERVOIR PRELIMINARY ORDER OF COSTS Items Gosling Ck Reservoir Bloomfield Park Unit Total Rates Estimated Cost PREFERRED MASTER PLAN Shared path type 1 1,160.0 l.m 1,160.0$ 175.00 $203,000.00 - 4m wide asphalt path Shared path type 3 2,150.0 2,130.0 l.m 4,280.0$ 110.00 $470,800.00 - 2.5m wide asphalt path Pedestrian path type 4 1,280.0 385.0 l.m 1,665.0$ 48.00 $79,920.00 - 1.5m wide crushed sandstone path Main carpark access roadway (asphalt) 1,370.0 m2 1,370.0$ 50.00 $68,500.00 Main carpark parking bays (gravel) 1,240.0 m2 1,240.0$ 25.00 $31,000.00 Main carpark barriers 125.0 l.m 125.0$ 65.00 $8,125.00 Main carpark fence 75.0 l.m 75.0$ 40.00 $3,000.00 Main carpark entry signage 1.0 No. 1.0$ 5,000.00 $5,000.00 Secondary carpark roadway - asphalt 1,040.0 m2 1,040.0$ 50.00 $52,000.00 (cnr Forest & Bloomfield Road) Secondary carpark parking bays (gravel) 690.0 m2 2,256.0$ 25.00 $56,400.00 Secondary carpark barriers 50.0 l.m 50.0$ 60.00 $3,000.00 Secondary carpark fence 50.0 l.m 50.0$ 40.00 $2,000.00 Secondary carpark entry signage 1.0 No. 1.0$ 5,000.00 $5,000.00 Bargwanna Road parking bay pavement 275.0 m2 275.0$ 25.00 $6,875.00 (gravel) Bargwanna Road parking bay barriers 50.0 l.m 50.0$ 60.00 $3,000.00 Bloomfield Road parking bay (gravel) 70.0 m2 70.0$ 25.00 $1,750.00 (Horse Rest Area ) Bloomfield Road parking barriers 13.0 l.m 13.0$ 60.00 $780.00 Raised pavement thresholds 4.0 No. 4.0$ 4,300.00 $17,200.00 Grass seeding 63,600.0 m2 63,600.0$ 4.75 $302,100.00 Native grass 17,000.0 m2 17,000.0$ 6.00 $102,000.00 Northside weed management 204,600.0 m2 204,600.0$ 0.35 $71,610.00 Native grass with native tree canopy 31,600.0 10,000.0 m2 41,600.0$ 8.50 $353,600.00 Northside revegetation - Woodland 173,000.0 m2 173,000.0$ 3.00 $519,000.00 Southside weed management 123,350.0 m2 123,350.0$ 0.65 $80,177.50 Southside revegetation 123,350.0 m2 123,350.0$ 4.65 $573,577.50 Creek revegetation 2,320.0 6,800.0 m2 9,120.0$ 4.65 $42,408.00 Wetland revegetation 3,600.0 10,000.0 m2 13,600.0$ 6.65 $90,440.00 Revegetation of existing grassed area 12,300.0 m2 12,300.0$ 10.00 $123,000.00 Dam foreshore stabilisation 1,250.0 l.m 1,250.0$ 15.00 $18,750.00 Picnic shelters 4.0 4.0 No. 8.0$ 10,000.00 $80,000.00 Picnic benches 6.0 6.0 No. 12.0$ 1,500.00 $18,000.00 Park benches 4.0 4.0 No. 8.0 $ 1,200.00 $9,600.00 Park interpretive signage 7.0 3.0 No. 10.0$ 2,000.00 $20,000.00 BBQ's 4.0 4.0 No. 8.0 $ 2,000.00 $16,000.00 Boardwalk over Gosling Creek 175.0 m2 175.0$ 800.00 $140,000.00 - steel or timber construction - 2.5m wide with 8x10m deck Boardwalk over dam wall 445.0 m2 445.0$ 600.00 $267,000.00 - steel or timber construction - 1.2m wide with 5x6.5m deck Fly casting / angling deck 2.0 No. 2.0 $ 5,000.00 $10,000.00 Jetty 70.0 m2 70.0$ 1,000.00 $70,000.00 Bird hides 3.0 No. 3.0$ 4,500.00 $13,500.00 Existing cottage - adaptive reuse 1.0 1.0 $150,000.00 Relocated amenities block 1.0 No. $80,000.00 - composting toilet
TOTAL $4,168,113.00
EXCLUSIONS Lighting Maintenance Survey and design
POSSIBLE LONG TERM FEATURES Gosling Ck Reservoir Bloomfield Park Unit Total Rates Estimated Cost Reservoir viewing / rest area 1.0 1.0 $17,500.00 Viewing landmark tower 1.0 1.0 $40,000.00 Swamp deck over flood prone areas 175.0 m2 175.0$ 400.00 $70,000.00 - steel or timber construction - 1.5m wide, no handrail required Bargwanna Road asphalt pavement 2,256.0 m2 2,256.0$ 50.00 $112,800.00 Beach 250.0 m2 250.0$ 35.00 $8,750.00
Orange City Council 37
5.0 Bibliography
Orange Agricultural College, Associate Diploma of Environmental Control – Land Management II Project – “A Proposal for the use of Gosling Creek & Spring Creek Reservoirs for Recreation” (1987)
Orange City Council, BLOOMFIELD PARK – Plan of Management (15/2/96)
Orange City Council, GOSLING CREEK RESERVOIR – Plan of Management (14/7/96)
Orange City Council 39
6.0 Appendix
A. Stakeholder Reference List B. Press Releases / Flyers Flyer - Workshop No. 1 Flyer - Workshop No. 2 Newspaper article - Central Western Daily, Thursday 24th May 2001 C. Community Workshop Notes Workshop No. 1 - Monday 21st May 2001 Workshop No. 2 - Wednesday 13th June 2001
Orange City Council 41
6.0 Appendix
A. Stakeholder Reference List
Orange City Council 43
MULTI-SPORT Orange Ex-Services’ Club Contact: PO Box 90 Dominic Connaughton ORANGE NSW 2800 6362 2666 (work) ATHLETICS Orange Runners Club Contact: 17 Markham Avenue Marilyn Williams ORANGE NSW 2800 6362 9948 (home)
ATHLETICS Orange Walkers Club Contact: 7 Avondale Place Marilyn Williams ORANGE NSW 2800 6362 9948 (home) BIATHLON Orange Cycle & Triathlon Club Contact: PO Box 2390 Tony Commins ORANGE NSW 2800 6361 0746 (home)
CANOEING Orange Canobolas Canoe Club PO Box 2202 ORANGE NSW 2800
CYCLING Orange Cycle & Triathlon Club Contact: PO Box 2390 Martin Scott ORANGE NSW 2800 6361 9096 (home)
EQUESTRIAN Orange Regional Appaloosa Club Contact: C/- “Springview” Debbie Pearson Spring Hill Road 6365 5381 MILLTHORPE NSW 2798
EQUESTRIAN Orange Campdraft Club Contact: “Huntley Downs” Ian McBurnie (President) Cully Road 6365 5124 (home) HUNTLY NSW 2800
EQUESTRIAN Central Western Dressage Group Contact: “Oaklea” Trevor Klein SPRING TERRACE NSW 2798 ph/fax 6365 4355 0418 413 486 [email protected]
EQUESTRIAN Orange Pony Club Contact: PO Box 700 Jeni Sommerset Orange NSW 2800 6362 3508
EQUESTRIAN Orange Trail Horse Riders & Drivers’ Contact: Association Inc. Jan Olariaga PO Box 1710 6366 8026 “Othrada” ORANGE NSW 2800
FISHING Orange Trout Acclimatisation Society Contact: SAILING Orange Sailing Club PO Box 1250 ORANGE NSW 2800
SWIMMING Orange Amateur Swimming Club Contact: PO Box 545 Gai Stone ORANGE NSW 2800 6362 7464 (work) 6362 8354 (home)
SWIMMING Polar Bears Swimming Club Contact: PO Box 90 Phil McGarrety ORANGE NSW 2800 6363 1923 0147 251 826
TRIATHLON 110 Edward Street Contact: ORANGE NSW 2800 Grant Hindmarsh 6361 0998
FIELD Orange Field Naturalists Contact: NATURALISTS 13 Caleula Crescent Jennifer Kenna ORANGE NSW 2800 6362 8180 (home) [email protected] “Allambi” Contact: Cadia Road Linda Cruickshank Orange NSW 2800 6363 1054
Wangarang Industries Contact: 1635 Forest Road Garry Skerritt Orange NSW 2800
“Wisteria” Bargwanna Road Contact: Orange NSW 2800 Scott Wiesener 6361 1722
PO Box 103 Contact: “Pineleigh” Brooking Lane Kerri McEvoy & Graeme Attly Orange 2800 6362 1403
33 Lawson Crescent Contact: Orange NSW 2800 Bill Carroll 6362 1717 6.0 Appendix
B. Press Releases / Flyers
Orange City Council 47
Gosling Creek Reserve Masterplan
Work has commenced on the preparation of a masterplan for the Council reserve areas surrounding Gosling Creek Reservoir and adjoining Gosling Creek south of the Orange City Centre.
The reservoir was built in the late 19th century to supply the population of Orange, and now forms part of a group of three dams that serve the city. A Radiata Pine plantation surrounding the reservoir was harvested by State Forests in May 1999, and Council proposes the development of the area through recreation and environmental improvements.
The masterplan will provide the basis for improvements to be undertaken as part of a staged programme for the reservoir area, the adjoining Bloomfield Park area, and the open space between Gosling Creek and Bloomfield Road. Improvements to be considered include: native revegetation, reservoir access (eg decks), cycle, pedestrian, and bridle trails, and the provision of general park facilities including seating, shelter, bins and barbeques. Location Plan
Your involvement in the masterplan will assist Council in developing the most appropriate range of improvements to meet current and future community needs How to be involved If you would like to be involved with the development of the Masterplan for Gosling Creek Reserve, there are a number of ways that you can participate: Community Two Community Workshops will provide input into the plan at key times Workshops: to ensure the most appropriate open space improvements are developed Mailing List: If you are unable to attend the workshops, register on the Masterplan mailing list to receive information on the progress of the plan and outcomes of the community workshops Send us your Phone, fax or email your comments to the study team (see details below) comments: for incorporation in the development of the plan Public Council is aiming to place the Masterplan on public exhibition during July Exhibition: 2001 for general community comment First Community Workshop The first Community Workshop has been confirmed for Monday May 21st 2001 at Committee Room 3 Civic Centre, Orange from 6.00 - 8.00pm If you are able to attend the first Community Workshop please RSVP to Adam Hunter at Environmental Partnership by 5.00pm Friday 18th May 2001 email: [email protected] Ph: 02 9555 1033 Fax: 02 9818 5292 Gosling Creek Reserve Masterplan
The first Community Workshop for the Gosling Creek Reserve project was held at Orange Civic Centre on the 21st May. Five local residents and representatives of community groups attended, and were provided with an outline of the project. A masterplan that provides for the recreational and environmental upgrading of the reserve adjoining the Gosling Creek reservoir is being undertaken over May and June, and will be exhibited to the community in July 2001. The group discussed the recreation opportunities that the site provides including: - walking and jogging - connection to district cycle and horse trails - picnics and family recreation - fishing - canoeing - triathalon events for juniors Also discussed were some of the key problems / issues to be addressed: - weed encroachment - revegetation of Pine Location Plan plantation areas - management of potential conflicts between users The information provided is being used in the development of masterplan options will be reviewed at a second community workshop to be held in June. How to be involved If you would like to be involved with the development of the Masterplan for Gosling Creek Reserve, there are a number of ways that you can participate: Community Attend the second community workshop to provide input into the review Workshops: of master planning options for the site. Mailing List: If you are unable to attend the workshops, register on the Masterplan mailing list to receive information on the progress of the plan and outcomes of the community workshops Send us your Phone, fax or email your comments to the study team (see details below) comments: for incorporation in the development of the plan Public Council is aiming to place the Masterplan on public exhibition during July Exhibition: 2001 for general community comment Community Workshop No.2 The first Community Workshop has been confirmed for Wednesday 13th June Committee Room 3 Civic Centre, Orange from 6.00 - 8.00pm If you are able to attend the second Community Workshop or would like to discuss the project contact John Newman at Environmental Partnership Workshop RSVP by 5.00pm Tuesday 12th June 2001 email: [email protected] Ph: 02 9555 1033 Fax: 02 9818 5292
6.0 Appendix
C. Community Workshop Notes
Orange City Council 53
GOSLING CREEK RESERVE
Community Workshop No.1 Workshop Notes Held in Committee Room 3, Civic Centre, Orange Monday 21st May 2001
Summary of attendees (9 total) 5local residents 2 Orange City Council officers 2study team The following notes provide a summary of the first community workshop for Gosling Creek Reserve Landscape Master Plan, held on May 21st 2001 at the Civic Centre, Orange. These notes summarise the discussions of the working group, and will be incorporated with the findings of the consultancy teams assessment work in the development of master planning strategies for Gosling Creek Reserve.
1.0 WELCOME AND INTRODUCTION Adam Hunter of Environmental Partnership, welcomed participants to the meeting and thanked all for their time and interest in the project. Adam introduced the members of the study team and Council officers. Participants were invited to briefly introduce themselves and explain their interest in the Master Plan project.
2.0 THE MASTER PLAN PROCESS Adam Hunter outlined the brief for the study, and explained the purpose of the development of a master plan for the site. It was noted that this was the first of two proposed community workshops that will follow the Master Plan process for the Gosling Creek Reserve up to public exhibition in July this year. The second meeting will review preferred Master Plan options developed from the design principles.
3.0 WORKSHOP Following the presentation, the group were asked to consider the following topics in relation to Gosling Creek Reserve: • Opportunities / Potential Uses • Issues / Pressures
GENERAL DISCUSSION The above issues were discussed and comments provided are listed below:
1. Opportunities Angling / Fish Stocking • Ongoing stocking of the reservoir with native fingerlings (Murray Cod, Golden Perch). - Possibly with larger fish which would have a higher success rate - better competition with exotic fish, birds, etc. - NSW Fisheries have offered to match private/Council stocking of reservoir dollar for dollar • Fish habitat could be improved by dredging the reservoir to increase depth • No conflict with revegetation ie. Improved natural environment = im proved fish environment (food and protection) • No conflict with swimming Fly Fishing / Casting • Desirable to provide casting decks to improve reservoir site for fly-casting - Similar construction – rock/concrete desirable as per existing decks at Lake Canobolas - Potential approac h for Gosling Creek Reservoir – two decks located on northern side of reservoir, 60 metres apart, c asting eas t west
Bridle Trails • Potential link to wider network of Bridle trails ie. Crown Roads – Cadia Rd, Pinnacle Rd • Trail surface: Sandy loam/grass • Possible location for unloading of horse floats - Bloomfield Rd • Example provided by Canberra City trail design
Dressage Ring • Noted as possible feasibility for site – workgroup agreed maybe better located elsewhere relative to better support facilities
Ecology • Recent harvest of pine plantation on northern side of reservoir – to be revegetated • Desirable to remove pine trees on the Southern Side in long term to establish native vegetation - Retain ridgeline planting’s in short term – plant replacement native trees immediately and remov e pines when foreshore and ridge planting is established, and ca n provide screening/wind break • Noted Spring Creek Reservoir is a more suitable habitat priority
Triathlon • Season: late November - March • Children’s triathlon requires paved track suitable for bicycle raceway - Needs to be located off public roads (currently use Lake Canobolas car park - Approximately 1 km in length required Paths • Shared use paths would be accessible (where uses are not conflicting) • Consider access requirements / opportuniti es for : - Walkers - Joggers - Recreation cycle - Competition cycle - Horse / bridle trails
Facilities • Car parking - Several options available – review in master planning - Provide parking to serve community needs, but promote transport by cycle, horse, walking - Potential to use existing parking zones, or rationalise existing parking to provide more functional facilities - Disabled access required close to water - Canoe access required close to the water • Toilets - Type of toilet (composting most likely due to lack of sewer) - Management (eg. lock at night) Facilities (continued)
• Bicycle stands - Location to best serve recreation areas • Water - No connection to town water supply available - Water to be collected in rainwater tanks for hand washing etc. - Not for drinking • Picnic facilities - Tables - Shelters as required due to climate (wind, sun) • BBQ - Electric desirable subject to availability of services - Consider gas bottle powered in short term
2. Pressures • Reservoir is shallow due to heavy siltation from upstream run off • Encroachment of Cumbungi reeds at waters edge, and upstream in Gosling Creek • Competition from exotic fish (Carp, Redfin) • Casting decks - Require 160m (radius) clear zone around decks ie. safety zone for trees, people • Town water supply (not likely to be available) • Power supply limited to existing house • Introduced plants attract introduced birds • Existing pine trees - Self seeding, ongoing problem - Act as visual barrier with neighbouring farmland - Act as backdrop to views across lake from the North - Wind breaks role - Phased removal required coordinated with native tree replacement • Exotic Trees / Plants - Status regionally (colour city) - Weed issue, encroachment on waterways - Hay fever issue • Limit access to day time - Vandalism - Anti-social behaviour - Dumping • Dogs - Generally to be kept on leash in new areas of Gosling Creek Reserve - Designated off leash dog areas to be Bloomfield Reserve - Management: improved signage and community education required • Playground – potential requirements for play spaces to support passive recreational use • Erosion control for bridle trails 4.0 WHERE TO FROM HERE Council and the study team thanked those present for their time and interest in participating in Community Workshop No.1. Information from this workshop will be integrated with study team site investigations to develop usage and master planning options for the Gosling Creek Reserve. These options will be reviewed at the next community workshop. If you have any comments on the information provided in these meeting notes or have further issues that you would like to raise regarding Gosling Creek Reserve please feel free to contact Environmental Partnership (see contact details below).
5.0 NEXT WORKSHOP
The next workshop is scheduled for: Wednesday 13th June 2001 Committee Room 3 Civic Centre, Orange from 6.00 - 8.00pm
The aim of this workshop will be to review the master plan concept options developed by the study team. Please contact John Newman of Environmental Partnership Pty. Ltd. If you will be able to attend this workshop, please RSVP by Tuesday 12th June. Ph 9555 1033 Fax 9818 5292 email: [email protected]
Attachments 1. Study Area Map 2. B&W Aerial Photograph GOSLING CREEK RESERVE
Community Workshop No.2 Workshop Notes Held in Committee Room 3, Civic Centre, Orange Wednesday 13th June 2001
Summary of attendees (11 total) 7 local residents 1 Orange City Councillor 1 Orange City Council Officer 2 study team The following n otes provide a s ummary of the second c ommunity workshop for G osling C reek Reserve Landscape Master Plan held on June 13, 2001 at the Civic Centre, Orange. These notes summarise the d iscussions of the work group, and will be incorporated with the findings of the consultancy teams assessment work in the finalisation of master planning strategies for Gosling Creek Reserve.
1.0 WELCOME AND INTRODUCTION Adam Hunter of Environmental Partnership, welcomed participants to the meeting and thanked all for their time and interest in the project. Participants were invited to briefly introduce themselves and explain their interest in the development of the site.
2.0 THE MASTER PLAN PROCESS Adam Hunter outlined the brief for the study, and explained the purpose of the development of a master plan for the site. It was noted that this was the second of two proposed community workshops that will follow the Master Plan process for the Gosling Creek Reserve up to public exhibition in July this year. Adam explained that the purpose of the second community workshop was to review the Concept Master Plan options prepared by the s tudy team, a nd that the community m ember’s comments would be incorporated in the development of a preferred Master Plan for the site. The following steps describe the design process undertaken by the study team:
SITE APPRAISAL & ANALYSIS Physical site features that affect future open space development of the site include ridgelines, high points, views, slope, existing vegetation, isolated areas, a nd the limited width of the site at some points. (Refer attached diagram – Figure 1) Existing u ses on the site include playing fields (B loomfield Park), off-leash dog u se, informal walking / jogging, and fishing on the reservoir. Vegetation c h aracter is d iverse including the remnant P ine Plantation a djoining the r eservoir (cleared to the northern side – so uthern s ide predominantly incorporating timber not viable for harvesting). Stands of remnant tree canopy increase along the creek line to the east. Cultural planting’s of deciduous trees a re present in B loomfield Park and around the old caretakers cottage near the dam wall. LANDSCAPE UNITS The site can be described as a series of precincts based on landscape characteristics such as: topography, vegetation, and existing use. This helps to identify various issues and opportunities, and the uses that may be suitable for those particular areas. (Refer attached diagram – Figure 2) Precincts identified on the Landscape Units Diagram include: the a djoiningoad r reserve area (corner o f Bloomfield and F orest R oad), Cleared P ine P lantation, N ative T ree C o pses Regeneration Zone, Gosling Creek (east and west), Pine Forest, Reservoir, Dam Wall, Dam Wall Wetland, Cottage/Former Nursery, E xisting P icnic Are a (Bloomfield), P laying F ield’s 1 & 2 , Brandy C reek a nd Adjoining Open Space, Bush Regeneration Area, Former Picnic Area, Farm Dam, and the Open Space adjoining Huntley Road.
MASTER PLAN PRINCIPLES Based on the study teams review of the site and the inputs from the first community workshop the following broad principles have been established to guide the development of a master plan for the site. • Promote recreational uses that are compatible with the sites physical characteristics and with each other. • Provide a sustainable level of facilities to adequately cater for recreational use. • Develop and integrate an internal path network catering for pedestrians, joggers, cyclists, and horse / bridle use. • Link internal path system with a future regional network of paths. • Extend areas o f native vegetation to native r evegetation areas; provide full vegetation community where possible. • Maintain e xisting e xotic p lanting’s n ot r esponsible f or e nvironmental conflicts and explore opportunities for refinement of deciduous planting where appropriate. • Limit and define extent of maintained grassland. • Cater f or vehicula r access t o reserve a nd an appropriate level of c ar parking w ithout compromising natural and recreational values
CONCEPT MASTER PLAN OPTIONS (Refer Figures 3-5) The three Concept Master Plan Options developed to date include a number of common features including: • Path connections catering for a variety of users – walking, jogging, recreation cycling, minor competition cycling, horse / bridle trails (connection to regional network). • Typical trail network characteristics – direct linkages b etween activities where possible, practical surfaces, maximise accessibility by elderly / disabled users, desire lines, treatment of path junctions, use of paths to define maintenance zones • Vegetation / Maintenance types include − maintained grass with tree planting for shade / shelter − trees in native gr ass ( slashed 1-2 times per y ear to m aintain v isual s ite lin es under tr ee canopy) − full native revegetation − deciduous accent / shade tree planting’s • Interpretive signage explaining: site d evelopment and staging, G osling Creek Reserve trails, district network of trails, historical information, etc. CONCEPT MASTER PLAN OPTIONS (CONTINUED) (Refer Figures 3-5) • Car parking provided to serve r ecreation areas – can be developed in stages as park use grows • Public art opportunities • Horse facilities (as destination for stop over on district horse trails) • Habitat protection areas and creek rehabilitation – restriction of access • Creek line foreshore zone – enhanced natural ecosystem • Visual buffe r to south of reservoir – retain ridgeline p ine p lanting in short term until revegetation is established The variations in the three options principally relate to path / trail alignment, extent of maintained grassland, a nd the arrangement of car parking. Many elements / features from each o ption are interchangeable and will b e compiled following the w orkshop and discussion with C ouncil to create a preferred Landscape Master Plan. Consideration must also be given to the phasing of reserve development, as Council will not have sufficient funding to construct the development in one s tage. It is suggested that elements constructed in the first stage would include high priority environmental issues such as revegetation of the former pine plantation to the north of the reservoir, definition of parking areas, signage, and some path development.
3.0 WORKGROUP DISCUSSION A general forum followed in which the workshop discussed the following issues to be reviewed in the finalisation of the Master Plan: • Potential provision of playground to serve recreational areas. • Potential fitness equipment provision spread along length of path system. • Cycle related facilities – cycle racks, activities for younger cyclists. • Potential jetty to cater for canoe launching, etc incorporating disabled water access. • Potential integration of a beach foreshore area with the boardwalk / jetty. • Provision of activities along path system – fitness, signage, etc. • Avoid conflicts between different path users where possible (Note: Ultimately if the site is to be developed for passive recreational use it may not be large enough to sustain senior competition cycling and other events. Provision for junior events can be integrated, but only where able to be part of a shared system (maximising use) that may require some event day management). • Strategies for night access / management required. • Avoid disturbing mature native trees during path development. • Retain flat open grassed area west of Brandy Creek as part of the off leash dog area • Off leash dog area defined a s the area between the abov e mentioned location a nd Bargwanna Road • Prevent illegal vehicle access on pathways. • Preference for Bloomfield Reserve to have no internal vehicle access – parking to be kept to external roadways (Bloomfield and Bargwanna Road) 3.0 WORKGROUP DISCUSSION • Potential closure of Bargwanna Road to through traffic to be considered to enable reserve to be one continuous land parcel. (Note: road closure issue would need to be evaluated by Council separately). • Angle parking along Bargwanna Road would be a good use of space. • Potential for future Cycle Path along Forest Road – continuation to be shown? • Continue cycle / horse trails north along Huntley Road. • Can there be path crossings for Horses and Cycles over Forest Road (north of Gosling Creek) into the pine plantation? – Who owns this land (Dept. Ag?) To be reviewed. • Shared path type 1 should continue within the park to Huntley Road. • Are there too many paths currently proposed? Review. • Potential grass or beach area to south side, to maximise northern aspect. • Provide a path loop to the southern side of the reservoir – using asphalt paths. • What is Council’s commitment to ongoing development (funding)? • Retain a sustainable amount of deciduous trees in parkland and to reflect Orange’s character as Colour City.
4.0 WHERE TO FROM HERE Council and the s tudy t eam thanke d those p resent for their time and in terest in participating in Community Workshop No.2 . The s tudy team w ill u se the information from this w orkshop in the development of a preferred Landscape Master Plan for the Gosling Creek Reserve. The preferred Landscape Master Plan is aimed to be placed o n Public Exhibition commencing in July for community comment. If you have any comments on t he information provided in these meeting notes, or have further issues that you would like to raise regarding Gosling Creek Reserve please feel free to contact: John Newman of Environmental Partnership Pty. Ltd. Ph: 02 9555 1033, Fax: 02 9818 5292, Email: [email protected]
5.0 ATTACHMENTS Figure 1 – Site Appraisal Figure 2 – Landscape Units Diagram Figure 3 – Concept Master Plan, Option 1 (two pages) Figure 4 – Concept Master Plan, Option 2 (two pages) Figure 5 – Concept Master Plan, Option 3 (two pages)