anglesea coastal action plan - wcb.vic.gov.au · managing this section of coast. 1.2 study area the...

ANGLESEA COASTAL ACTION PLAN FINAL DRAFT June 1999

Prepared for:

By:

Coastal Action Plans – Implementing the Victorian Coastal Strategy The Victorian Coastal Strategy, developed by the Victorian Coastal Council and endorsed by the State Government in November 1997, establishes the overall framework for planning and management of the Victorian coast. Through the Strategy, Government is providing leadership to ensure that Victoria’s coastal and marine environment will continue to be well managed and used by present and future generations. Coastal Action Plans (CAP), developed in accordance with the Coastal Management Act 1995, provide a key mechanism for the implementation of the Strategy. CAPs enable the broad principles and priorities identified in the Strategy to be further developed and applied at a sub regional or issue based level. They provide strategic direction for the future management of an area of coast by identifying necessary priorities, actions and outcomes. Following completion of a draft CAP, the Regional Coastal Board refers the draft plan to the Victorian Coastal Council for approval. Subject to Council’s approval, the plan is then referred by the Council to the Minister for endorsement and formal notification through the Government Gazette.

The Victorian Coastal Strategy 1997 (VCS) • provides strategic direction for planning and management of the whole coast • was developed by the Victorian Coastal Council and approved by the State Government in

November 1997 as Government policy • integrates State, National and International principles and policies for the coast Coastal Action Plans (CAPS) • enable the broader principles and priorities of the VCS to be further developed and applied at

a regional or local level, or for particular issues • are consistent with the Victorian Coastal Strategy and play a key role in its implementation • take a long term strategic view, clarify directions for future use and key actions required to

achieve preferred outcomes • are developed by or under the guidance of Regional Coastal Boards • involve public consultation during preparation • are referred to the Victorian Coastal Council for approval prior to referral by the Council to

the Minister for endorsement

Management Plans • provide direction for day to day management of an area of coast by appointed managers • include a business plan which outlines management requirements, proposed works and

budget priorities • are developed by coastal managers in accordance with the Coastal Management Act 1995 • must be consistent with the VCS, CAPS and relevant legislation • are approved by the Minister

Diane James Chairman

Victorian Coastal Council

Anglesea Coastal Action Plan

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TABLE OF CONTENTS 1.0 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................... 4 1.1 The Need for a Coastal Action Plan ................................................................... 4 1.2 Study Area ....................................................................................................... 4 1.3 Methodology .................................................................................................... 5 1.4 References ...................................................................................................... 6 2.0 POLICY CONTEXT ................................................................................................ 7 2.1 Coastal Strategy ............................................................................................... 7 2.2 Tourism Policy ................................................................................................. 8 2.3 Urban Planning Policy....................................................................................... 9 3.0 STRATEGIC ISSUES........................................................................................... 10 3.1 Overview ....................................................................................................... 10 3.2 Population and Planning ................................................................................. 10 3.2.1 Background ............................................................................................ 10 3.2.2 Key Issues.............................................................................................. 12 3.3 Environment ................................................................................................... 13 3.3.1 Background ............................................................................................ 13 3.3.2 Key Issues.............................................................................................. 14 3.4 Cultural Heritage ........................................................................................... 15 3.4.1 Background ............................................................................................ 15 3.4.2 Key Issues.............................................................................................. 17 4.0 THE ACTION PLAN ............................................................................................. 18 4.1 The Vision...................................................................................................... 18 4.2 Key Principles ................................................................................................ 18 4.3 General Issues ............................................................................................... 18 4.4 Site Specific Issues and Actions ...................................................................... 21 4.4.1 Red Rock to Anglesea River .................................................................... 21 4.4.2 Central Anglesea / Anglesea River........................................................... 24 4.4.3 Main Beach ............................................................................................ 28 4.4.4 Surf Life Saving Club to Motor Yacht Club ................................................ 30 4.4.5 Motor Yacht Club to Point Roadknight ...................................................... 32 4.4.6 Point Roadknight to O’Donohue Road ...................................................... 35 4.4.7 O'Donohue Road to Urquhart Bluff ........................................................... 36 4.4.8 Urquhart Bluff ......................................................................................... 38 5.0 IMPLEMENTATION AND FUNDING ..................................................................... 40 5.1 Responsibility for Implementation .................................................................... 40 5.2 Project Management....................................................................................... 41 5.3 Site Specific Approvals ................................................................................... 41 APPENDIX A - CONSULTATION SUMMARY ........................................................................ 42 Responses to the Draft ......................................................................................... 43 Responses from Groups ....................................................................................... 44 APPENDIX B - CONDITIONS RELATING TO WORKS (ABORIGINAL HERITAGE) ................. 47 APPENDIX C - GEOMORPHOLOGY..................................................................................... 48 Overview............................................................................................................. 48 Point Roadknight to Anglesea River 49



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1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 The Need for a Coastal Action Plan The Anglesea coastal and hinterland environments are made up of internationally significant natural features. These features provide a range of recreational and nature based experiences for domestic, interstate and an increasing number of international tourists. Anglesea also offers lifestyle and recreation opportunities to residents, and like many coastal holiday towns attracts retirees from urban and inland areas. The Anglesea Coastal Action Plan sets the strategic direction for future management and development, to ensure a balanced approach to protection and use of the area’s natural assets. The Victorian Coastal Strategy provides the framework for achieving this balance. The Coastal Action Plan also includes a range of actions providing direction to bodies involved in managing this section of coast.

1.2 Study Area The Anglesea township is located approximately 110 kilometres south west of Melbourne, and approximately 34 kilometres from Geelong. The study area for the Coastal Action Plan stretches from Red Rock, north east of Anglesea to Urquhart Bluff, south west. It includes the Anglesea River and Town Centre, Coogoorah Park, the Great Ocean Road, the foreshore reserve, the Anglesea Lookout Reserve and the Eumeralla Scout Camp. Private property adjoining the coastal and riverine reserve has also been considered where it impacts upon the management of these areas.



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1.3 Methodology The plan was prepared in the following stages: 1. Steering Committee Composition: • Dr. Bob Loch, Chairman (member of the Western Coastal Board) • Mr. Chris Marshall, DNRE/Anglesea Foreshore Committee • Mr. Neil Tucker, Roadknight Coast Action • Mr. Geoff Holbery-Morgan, Angair • Cr. Julie Hansen, Mayor, Surf Coast Shire • Mr. John Wilkin, Manager Technical Services, Surf Coast Shire • Mr. Russell Hattwell, Anglesea Tourist and Traders Association • Ms. Katie Young, Coast Action/Coast Care • Ms. Cinnamon Evans • Mrs. Shirley Forsyth, Community Representative • Mr. Nick Wimbush, Executive Support 2. Data collection/information review • Sourcing of base maps/aerial photographs. • Review of relevant technical reports/publications. These are outlined under point 1.4

“References”. 3. Identification of issues and opportunities • Physical/visual analysis of Study Area • Strategic overview of Study Area • Discussions with 19 key stakeholders • Community workshop 4. Preparation of the Draft Coastal Action Plan • Draft strategies and actions in response to issues and opportunities • Community workshop • Public display of plans and summary of recommendations 5. Finalisation of plan • Summary and analysis of public submissions (see Appendix A) • Incorporation of public comment into recommendations • Consolidation of background data and recommendations into summary report



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1.4 References

The following studies/reports have been referred to in the preparation of the Anglesea Coastal Action Plan:

• Victorian Coastal Strategy, Victorian Government, November 1997

• Draft Surfcoast Tourism Strategy 1998, Surfcoast Shire

• Siting and Design Guidelines for Structures on the Victorian Coast – Victorian Coastal Council, May 1998.

• Report on Geotechnical Investigation, Anglesea Lookout Parking Bay (Draft) – Douglas Partners, October 1998.

• Landscape Setting Types for the Victorian Coast – Victorian Coastal Council, May 1998.

• Surf Coast Planning Scheme, Surf Coast Shire (as at August 1998 including Municipal Strategic Statement

• Coastal Stability Study, Point Roadknight Boat Ramp to Anglesea River Mouth – G.C. Black and Associates, May 1997.

• Victorian Coastal Strategy – Victorian Coastal Council, 1997.

• Anglesea, A Natural History Study – Angair Inc., 1997.

• Draft Anglesea/Point Roadknight Structure Plan 1997

• Great Ocean Road Tourism Development Strategy 1996, Country Victoria Tourism Council Inc.

• Surfcoast 2020 Vision: A preferred Future, 1996

• Report on Options for River Bank Protection – Vantree Pty. Ltd., July 1996.

• Anglesea Foreshore Study (Final Report) – Lubec Consulting, November 1994.

• Victorian Coastal Vulnerability Study – Port of Melbourne Authority/Environmental Protection Authority, 1993.

• Preliminary Assessment of Cliff Hazards at Demons Bluff, Anglesea – Dr. Eric Bird.

• Coastal Management Plan (Proposed) – Department of Conservation and Environment, December 1991.

• The Flowers of Anglesea River Valley – Mary D. White, 1989.



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2.0 POLICY CONTEXT The Anglesea Coastal Action Plan area is governed by local, regional and state government policies and strategies which are identified in this section.

2.1 Coastal Strategy The Victorian Coastal Strategy was approved by the State Government in 1997 under the Victorian Coastal Management Act 1995. It provides direction for the use and management of the Victorian coast. The Strategy addresses activities or processes which may impact on the coastal and marine environment, including catchment impacts. The four key objectives of the Strategy are: The Strategy is being implemented via Coastal Action Plans, Local Government planning schemes; State Environment Protection Policies; Regional Catchment Strategies; Fisheries Management Plans; Regional Tourism Development Plans; and Co-operative Agreements (Victorian Coastal Strategy, p13). The Strategy identifies strategic priorities for Anglesea including larger tourism facilities and protection of cultural/historic sites. Walking tracks on the coast between Torquay and Apollo Bay are identified as requiring construction, relocation or upgrade, subject to site and management constraints. The Great Ocean Road in this area is designated in the Strategy as a scenic tourist road. The Victorian Coastal Vulnerability Study was prepared in 1993 for the Port of Melbourne Authority and the Environment Protection Authority. Key findings for Anglesea relate to: • Potential beach recession of 2.5 - 4.0 m over the next 50 years between the Anglesea River

and Point Roadknight; • Potential for flooding on the lower reaches of the Anglesea River related to Greenhouse

changes; and • Potential for increased beach erosion between Point Roadknight and Urquhart Bluff (Victorian

Coastal Vulnerability Study, p31 – 33). As the Coastal Action Plan is implemented and reviewed, the latest Greenhouse predictions will need to be monitored.

• Sustain Ensure the sustainable use of natural resources, so that the coastal and marine environment will be in better health in 20, 50 and 100 years time.

• Protect

Ensure the protection of significant environmental features of the coast. • Direct

Provide clear direction for the future use of the coast including the marine environment.

• Develop

Identify suitable (and ecologically sustainable) development areas and development opportunities on the coast.



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2.2 Tourism Policy There are two main sources of tourism policy, Tourism Victoria, which has identified the Great Ocean Road as a product region, and Surf Coast Shire Council, which has made provision for tourism promotion in the Planning Scheme and prepared its own Tourism Strategy. Tourism Victoria The Great Ocean Road is described as “one of the world’s most breathtaking coastal experiences” (Experience Victoria 1996/97 RACV) and one of the “great scenic coastal drives of the world” (Explore the Great Ocean Road, See Australia Guides, 1997). Accordingly, the Great Ocean Road Tourism Development Strategy (GORTDS) has the vision of: “the Great Ocean Road will be the premier visitor destination in southern Australia and an icon of national and international significance and recognition”. The GORTDS proposes developing the tourist industry by increasing visitation, increasing length of stay to reduce seasonality and targeting a wider range of market segments. The GORTDS identifies development potential associated with the Anglesea Golf Course. The GORTDS also identifies opportunities to develop a Koorie walk in the Point Addis/Ironbark basin area (subsequently implemented) and the need to upgrade car parks in the Anglesea Foreshore/Point Roadknight areas. The GORTDS indicates that “it is of paramount importance that appropriate planning and development policies and controls are put in place to ensure the scenic values of the GOR are preserved”. Surf Coast Shire Council The Surf Coast Shire Draft Tourism Strategy proposes eco-tourism as the major tourism focus for the Shire. A number of objectives and actions are outlined including the need to identify critical areas where visitation should not be encouraged. The Surf Coast Shire vision in the Surf Coast Planning Scheme (as exhibited in February, 1998) also recognises the significance of tourism -“By the year 2020 Surf Coast will be one of the best known regions of Australia” (Clause 21.02-1). “The Great Ocean Road is an international asset and its natural beauty and tourism potential must be maintained.” (Clause 21.02-3) Tourism is recognized as a key contributor to the economy of the region. However the Surf Coast 2020 Vision affirms that tourism must complement community values with measures in place to preserve the natural environment, and that there must be corresponding growth in infrastructure, facilities and resources to accommodate tourist and visitors. (Clause 21.02-2)



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2.3 Urban Planning Policy The Draft Anglesea/Point Roadknight Structure Plan, (August, 1997) identifies a number of key planning and development objectives which complement the community vision endorsed in the Surf Coast 2020 Vision, namely: • That coastal centres be contained in their growth as centres of permanent settlement; • That development be concentrated in existing coastal settlements hence future development

will be achieved largely through infill development within township boundaries; • That new subdivision will only be permitted if it can preserve the physical environment and

can meet the local objectives of the area;

• That the Great Ocean Road should be promoted as a tourist corridor; • That a variety of housing be encouraged, particularly medium density units to ensure

containment and a greater variety of choice; • That the Surf Coast be promoted as a major tourist attraction including increased

opportunities for visitor accommodation. These objectives are consistent with the Victorian Coastal Strategy in aiming to consolidate development within existing centres. The Draft Anglesea Structure Plan continues these themes at the more detailed local level. The Surf Coast Planning Scheme (as exhibited February, 1998) seeks to retain the “coastal village character and environmental features of the Anglesea, Aireys Inlet, Fairhaven… townships” (Clause 22.01) and outlines the community’s desire to “retain the individuality and particular character of the discrete towns of the area…” The Council has outlined policies for repositioning Anglesea’s four retail/commercial centres located in Camp Road, Diggers Parade/Noble Street, Four Kings and the Corner of Fourth and Fifth Avenue. The Surf Coast Shires 2020 Vision recognizes that the natural environment and quality of life are the chief assets of the Shire. The Surf Coast’s Environment and Conservation Plan sets out actions to preserve the natural environment and ensure that places which make Anglesea unique are retained.



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3.0 STRATEGIC ISSUES

3.1 Overview Anglesea is situated on the Great Ocean Road between Torquay and Lorne. It marks the coastal section of the Great Ocean Road, regarded as one of the great scenic drives of the world. Anglesea has a “coastal village” character and is historically a “resort” township, popular with families and your people, that caters for a summer influx of visitors and holiday home owners, campers and tourists. Anglesea has a long tradition as a camping location and is a well-known centre for camps providing outdoor education, environmental programs and retreats. Anglesea's low density of development has enabled the retention of a large proportion of its indigenous flora which is an important feature of the township. Anglesea’s unique residential character is also typified by the unobtrusive design of many dwellings, and the maintenance of the natural character of the area. Other aspects of the natural environment (scenic qualities, coastal dunes, cliff faces, riverine wetlands) are equally significant to Anglesea and the Surf Coast Shire by: • providing a quality lifestyle for the permanent and non-permanent population; and • contributing to the Shire’s economic base. The priority of the natural environment is reflected by the Shire’s aim to “achieve a reputation as the most environmentally friendly local government in the world - managing the best preserved coastal environment in the world” (Surf Coast Planning Scheme, as exhibited February 1998 - Clause 21.02-2).

3.2 Population and Planning 3.2.1 Background Anglesea's resort character is evident as the population swells from 1,995 permanent residents to an estimated 10,000 during summer. This reflects the general trend on the Surf Coast where a permanent population of 16,700 swells to 45,000 in summer. (Surf Coast Planning Scheme, Surf Coast Shire (as at August 1998 including Municipal Strategic Statement). The principal forms of visitor accommodation in Anglesea include the various camps, caravan parks, holiday houses and motels/hotels/guest houses. Unoccupied dwellings exceed occupied dwellings by 2 : 1 in the off season. This suggests that at least two thirds of the housing stock is utilized as holiday accommodation. The permanent population of Anglesea has increased since 1997, and is forecast to continue to increase (see Table 3.1). Table 3.1 Population Projections

Population 1996 Forecast 2010 Percentage Increase

Surf Coast Shire 16,714 26,389 57 % Anglesea 1,995 3,200 60 %

Source: Surf Coast Planning Scheme - Municipal Strategic Statement



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The coast is a popular location for retirement and around 25 % of the permanent population of Anglesea and Lorne are aged over 60 (based on 1996 census data). This proportion has declined since 1996. Population figures suggest that the Surf Coast Shire will experience significant development pressures over the next 15 years. Annual population growth in Anglesea since 1991 has been around 1 % compared with 4.5 % for Torquay - Jan Juc. Torquay’s population is expected to continue to grow at around 3.5 % per annum to around 10,000 by 2010, compared with 3,200 for Anglesea. (Surf Coast Planning Scheme, Surf Coast Shire (as at August 1998 including Municipal Strategic Statement). Tourism research also suggests strong growth in visitor numbers in the Surf Coast Shire up to the year 2005 (see Table 3.2). In addition to attracting its own visitors, Anglesea is impacted by wider tourism trends relating to the Great Ocean Road, which has annual tourism growth targets of 2 % domestic and 5 % international visitation. Table 3.2 Surf Coast Shire Tourism

Tourism Surf Coast Shire 1995/96 Forecast Growth 2005 Percentage Increase

1.6 million visits comprising: - 743,000 overnighters - 908,000 daytrippers

2.4 million

50%

Source: Draft Surf Coast Tourism Strategy Key characteristics of tourism to the Great Ocean Road (GOR) include: • The GOR passes through the Anglesea township. It is a single lane road in each direction

and carries in excess of 12,400 vehicles per day over summer north of Anglesea (Surf Coast Planning Scheme, as exhibited February, 1998 - Clause 21.07-7). 1995 data indicates traffic volumes of around 17,000 vehicles per day in town west of Camp Road (Draft Anglesea/Point Roadknight Structure Plan 1997, p17).

• Tourism expenditure for the GOR is estimated at $ 241million (Source Tourism Victoria,

Regional Tourism and Travel Survey, 1995). Tourism expenditure is estimated to generate around $ 98 million in the Surf Coast Shire and is expected to grow to $ 145 million by 2005 (Source: Draft Surf Coast Tourism Strategy).

• Most visitors to the GOR region use a private vehicle. • The major activities undertaken by visitors to the Shire include: - going bush; coastal walks;

scenic drives; sports and adventure activities - horse riding, fishing, rock climbing, hang-gliding, surfing and other water sports.

• 87 % of overnight visitors to the GOR were from Victoria, 12 % from interstate and 2 % from

overseas. (Great Ocean Road Tourism Development Strategy 1996, Country Victoria Tourism Council Inc).

• 46 % of the Surf Coast workforce is employed in the tourism industry. Tourism is a key

contributor to the Shire’s prosperity. Tourism is identified by Council as a key growth sector for the local economy. (Surf Coast Planning Scheme, Surf Coast Shire (as at August 1998 including Municipal Strategic Statement).



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3.2.2 Key Issues Growth of the permanent population of Anglesea will be controlled by both the nature of surrounding land uses (particularly the Angahook/Lorne State Park and the local planning framework, which limits residential subdivision). The main strategic planning issue facing Anglesea, therefore, is how to provide for rapidly increasing visitor numbers without degrading the natural assets that make the area so attractive. The key issues (not in any order) are listed below. These should be understood as being strongly interrelated, rather than as discrete issues Coastal infrastructure provision • Basic infrastructure replacement/provision is needed in specific areas including beach access

(able and disabled), car parking and visitor information. Infrastructure development must take into account public safety and the environmental capability of the particular site and locality. In this regard, the limited capacity of infrastructure can be useful in limiting use and, thereby, environmental impact.

• The proposed Great Ocean Road Discovery Centre will provide a focus for tourism and

recreation in Anglesea by providing visitor information and an educational and entertaining experience of the unique environment of Anglesea. At the time of this report, however, the project has not received full government approval. The Coastal Action Plan supports the concept, subject to full approvals process, detailed design and resolution of budget issues.

The Great Ocean Road • The Great Ocean Road through Anglesea carries a significant amount of traffic in peak times

and this will continue to increase. While this can cause significant congestion at times, dividing the township from the foreshore, it is a situation which arises on relatively few days of the year. Encouragement of visitation outside peak times is one solution to this congestion. In the long term alternatives may be needed either via a local bypass or greater use of inland routes to Lorne and Apollo Bay. Widening of the Great Ocean Road through Anglesea itself is not desirable or easily achievable.

• The Great Ocean Road also delivers visitors to sensitive or potentially unstable areas of the

Anglesea Coast. The potential impact on these areas needs to be considered in the long term planning of the Road.

Protection of significant environmental and cultural features • Many parts of the Anglesea Coast are attractive and should be accessible. However, this

accessibility must not be to the detriment of environmental and cultural values. The provision of safe, sustainable access is a key issue.

• There are activity generators in Anglesea which are within or close to environmentally

sensitive areas. These include the Eumeralla Scout Camp, the Anglesea Recreation Camp and the retail centre. Future activity should be directed to those parts of the coast which can sustainably accommodate it, and away from particularly fragile areas.

• The challenge is to balance the needs and impacts of residents and visitors with the capacity

of the natural environment over the long term. Protection of lifestyle for residents and visitors • Anglesea currently serves as both a tourist destination and a permanent seaside township.

This creates a dilemma between promotion of tourism along the Great Ocean Road and the capacity of the township to cater for it without losing its character and attraction for either of these groups.



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Public Safety • The coastal cliffs east and west of the Anglesea River are unstable. Access to these

landforms must be limited to reduce the potential public risk. • Fire is a significant risk to Anglesea as it is to much of south west Victoria. The large number

of people on the Anglesea coast over the summer increase this risk and coordinated fire planning and fire suppression are essential.

• Disabled access to the coast is limited to a small number of areas. The potential to provide or

modify facilities for people with disabilities should be considered in planning and management actions.

3.3 Environment 3.3.1 Background The Draft Anglesea/Point Roadknight Structure Plan (1997) identifies a number of sites of environmental significance including: • Indigenous flora and fauna of the Alcoa Lease Area and the former O’Donohue’s land

recently donated to the Angahook-Lorne State Park is listed on the Register of the National Estate;

• Important wetland and peat areas - Anglesea River, Coogoorah Park, the Kuarka Dorla

Nature Reserve and Fairyland; • The coastal reserve and marine areas between Demon’s Bluff and Point Roadknight contain

different habitats; • The shore platform and rock pools at Point Roadknight, which provide habitat for many sea

creatures; • Sand dunes and coastal heathlands; • Smaller bushland reserves and remnants of indigenous roadside vegetation. which provide

habitat and allow movement between the coast and bushland areas; • The Anglesea estuary and adjoining wetland reserve; • Highly valued scenic landscapes at Point Roadknight, Soapy Rock, Anglesea River and

Demon’s Bluff. The bushland surrounding Anglesea gives the area an “unspoilt” character. A diversity of vegetation types, including forest, woodland, heathland and coastal dune communities are all found, with corresponding high habitat diversity. Over 200 indigenous plant species have been recorded on the Alcoa lease. Over 25 % of Victoria’s ground orchid species have been recorded in the area. The bushland is one of the reasons that people visit Anglesea and its preservation is extremely important.



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The Anglesea area is home to a number of rare or threatened plant species, along with four endemic species (Anglesea – A Natural History Study, Angair 1997): • Grevillea infecunda - Anglesea Grevillea • Leptorhynchos gatesii - Wrinked Buttons • Eucalyptus sp. (Anglesea) - Victorian Grey Gum • Thelymitra sp. aff pauciflora (Anglesea) – Slender Sun Orchid Fauna values are also high, due to the diversity of habitat along the Anglesea Coast. Rare species found in the area, and of particular significance, include (Ecology Australia pers. comm.): • The Rufous Bristlebird, which nests along the coast between Urquhart Bluff and Point

Roadknight; • The Swamp Antechinus, which appears under threat and has not been recorded since 1983; • The New Holland Mouse, which is also increasingly rare, presently known only in four

localities in Victoria; • The Mountain Dragon, which is normally found at higher elevations and in N.E. Victoria; • The Swamp Skink. (Ecology Australia pers. comm.). The coastal and marine environment is also significant for habitat and spectacular landscapes. Rock pools occur within the study area, particularly at Point Roadknight and Urquhart Bluff, and support a wide range of marine flora and fauna. Scenic highlights include the high coastal cliffs north of the Anglesea River (known as Demon’s Bluff), the river and estuary, the cliffs and land slip between the river and Point Roadknight, Point Roadknight itself and Urquhart Bluff.



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3.3.2 Key Issues The issues arising from the significant environment of Anglesea include: Protection of Flora and Fauna • Long term management of the flora and fauna values around Anglesea is a major strategic

issue. This entails managing and educating people to ensure sensitive areas are protected. However, the most significant long term threat to Anglesea’s bushland is weeds. Planning for weed control, if not eradication, is essential for protection of both flora and fauna habitat.

Landscape Protection • Some of the most significant landscapes in Anglesea are mentioned above. Protection of

significant views from inappropriate development must be a priority. Coastal Stability • The dynamic nature of some highly valued landscapes (e.g. Point Roadknight, Soapy Rock,

Anglesea River and Demons Bluff) often presents a public risk. This dynamic nature is one of the features of the Anglesea coast and risk management should be undertaken on the basis of preventing people from exposing themselves to risk rather than intervening in the natural processes.

Community Education • Ongoing education is important for both visitors and residents as to the significant and

dynamic nature of the Anglesea environment. Fire • Fire is a major risk in Anglesea, due to the extent of native bushland. This is a particular issue

to the east of the Anglesea River where a number of fire refuge areas are provided at the Eumeralla Scout Camp, Ellimatta Recreation Reserve and Anglesea Family Caravan Park. There is also a need for a co-ordinated system of fire access tracks, linking with the beach.



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3.4 Cultural Heritage Issues 3.4.1 Background The following summary of key aspects of the cultural heritage of Anglesea has been drawn largely from “Anglesea, A Natural History Study” – Angair, 1997. Aboriginal Heritage Prior to European settlement, the Anglesea area was occupied by Koories for at least 70,000 years. The Wathaurong tribe, whose territory extended from the Werribee River to the Otways and inland, were the occupants of the area, periodically travelling to different sites for food and materials. Within 50 years of European settlement, the population of the Wathaurong Clan would be reduced from 700 to 35 with the onset of introduced western diseases, competition for food and other conflicts with the new settlers. In 1984, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Protection Act identified and protected numerous Aboriginal midden sites in the area, indicating sites where families settled for a time, collecting molluscs such as abalone, limpets and mussels and dog winkles. It is believed that midden sites up to 40,000 years old would be found under the sea off the Anglesea coast, where former land areas have become inundated due to changing ocean levels. European Settlement European settlement on the west coast extends to the landing of Matthew Flinders in 1802. This signalled the beginning of a gradual influx of European settlers to the area. Convict William Buckley who famously escaped imprisonment in 1803 was also an early visitor, wandering for years along the Western coast and invaluably recording his experiences with the people of the Wathaurong and his observations of the natural environment. Melbourne was settled in 1835 and the Anglesea area and the Western District, in general, began to experience rapid settlement growth from early 1840s. Anglesea was known as Swampy Creek until 1885 with James Noble and George Belcher owning the land on the west side of the Anglesea River from 1868. In 1884, the land was subdivided in 20 one acre lots and, by 1886, was known as Anglesea River with its own post office. The river was bridged in 1892, signalling the village as a major link along the West Coast. The end of the First World War was a significant point in the area’s history as returned soldiers were employed in the construction of the Great Ocean Road, effectively transforming Anglesea into the ‘gateway’ for this major tourist attraction. The official opening of the road in 1932 is a landmark in the development of Anglesea and the west coast generally. Holiday and scout camps, such as Eumeralla, flourished as all-year destinations for various school and church groups and summer holiday makers began making their regular seasonal pilgrimages. Coal was discovered in the area in the early twentieth century and Alcoa’s power station established just to the north of Anglesea in 1968 imposing major physical change to the landscape with the open-cut mine and its resultant by-products impacting on air quality and the biological diversity of the Anglesea River which it is situated on.



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The great fires of Ash Wednesday, 1983, were a seminal moment in the area’s history, reducing much of the coast to barren wasteland and devastating many towns including part of Anglesea. The rapid regeneration of the area’s vegetation, coupled with the resilience of its people has helped reinforce Anglesea’s identity and the town’s sense of community. These legacies inform a town and region of beautiful and sometimes fragile environmental qualities, inhabited by a resilient and determined community. The Draft Anglesea/Point Roadknight Structure Plan (1997) identifies a number of sites and environments in Anglesea with environmental values and cultural significance including indigenous flora and fauna, marine and coastal environments, waterways and wetlands and other places of cultural significance. These include: • The boat sheds on Anglesea River. • The Loverage Lookout. • The cluster of older homes opposite the Anglesea River. • Indigenous flora and fauna. (The Alcoa Lease Area and O’Donohues land are listed on the

Register of the National Estate). • Important wetland and peat areas – Anglesea River; Coogoorah Park, the Kuarka Dorla

Nature Reserve and Fairyland. • The shore platform and rock pools at Point Roadknight provide habitat for many sea

creatures. • Smaller brushland reserves and remnants of indigenous roadside vegetation also provide

habitats and allow movement between the coast and bushland areas. • The Anglesea estuary and adjoining wetland reserve are areas of significant conservation

and tourism value. • Highly valued scenic landscapes at Point Roadknight, Soapy Rock, Anglesea River and

Demon’s Bluff. 3.4.2 Key Issues Protection of Cultural Heritage • Aboriginal sites are protected from unauthorized disturbance under State legislation.

Conditions on work in the Anglesea area are listed in Appendix B. However, wider recognition of Aboriginal history and involvement of Aboriginal people in coastal planning and management is a key strategic issue, along with identification and protection of post-contact heritage by the local community.

Interpretation of Cultural Heritage • Neither pre- nor post – settlement heritage is clearly identified or well interpreted for visitors to

the town. The “Surf Coast Shire Heritage Study”, currently in preparation, will identify places of cultural significance throughout Anglesea, and go forwards overcoming this issue.



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4.0 THE ACTION PLAN

4.1 The Vision Anglesea will be attractive for both residents and visitors through the appropriate use and management of its significant recreational, environmental and cultural values. Anglesea will be renowned for its scenery and rich natural qualities for people to enjoy without harm to either themselves or the environment.

4.2 Key Principles To achieve the vision for the Anglesea Coast, actions and strategies will adhere to a number of key principles: • Management of the Anglesea coast, the township centre and its river will increase the

attractiveness of the region for the enjoyment of residents and visitors. • Respect for the environment is paramount. The natural, ecological and geomorphological

processes of the coast will be acknowledged in management decisions and actions should have minimal adverse effect upon the environment.

• Management of the Anglesea Coast will seek to reduce public risk through a better

understanding of natural coastal processes and the fragile nature of the coast. • To optimize use of infrastructure and minimise impact on the environment, activities and new

facilities will be concentrated in existing developed areas. • Management of the Anglesea Coast will respect Aboriginal and post-contact heritage, and aid

in protecting and preserving those values. • All management and development programs must be assessed to ensure their long-term

sustainability. • Integrated management of the township and coast is essential. Based upon these guiding principles, key actions/strategies have been developed for the Anglesea Coast.



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4.3 General Issues In accordance with the objectives identified within the Victorian Coastal Strategy (VCS), a range of general actions have been identified, as follows, responding to strategic issues applying to the whole Anglesea Coast. Note: Numbering is for identification only and does not represent priority. SUSTAIN: To ensure the sustainability of natural resources

ACTIONS PRIORITY LEAD AGENCY 1) Undertake flora and fauna surveys of the Anglesea coastal

study area to determine conservation status of flora and fauna communities.

H COM

2) Use indigenous planting (species, provenance) in landscaping. H COM 3) Develop a consistent and informative signage programme as a

means of community education. M COM

4) Continue to monitor the water quality of the Anglesea River. L CMA 5) Undertake a feral animal control program. M COM

PROTECT: To ensure the protection of significant environmental features

ACTIONS PRIORITY LEAD AGENCY 6) Control/treat stormwater run-off from the urban area of

Anglesea. This will include the progressive sealing of roads and formalization of road drainage, to minimize erosion and river siltation

M SCS

7) Undertake on-going research into sites of Aboriginal cultural significance. Monitor and protect Aboriginal Heritage sites.

M AAV, WATHAURONG, COM

8) Manage and control pest plants. This should include eradication of existing weed infestation and prevention of new plantings. In this regard, a survey of environmental weed sites should be undertaken.

H COM

9) Undertake Impact Assessment of new works. H COM, SCS 10) Ensure that scenic values, particularly between Point

Roadknight and Urquhart Bluff are protected and not negatively impacted by structures.

H SCS

11) Ensure that safe beach recreation areas, such as the Point Roadknight beach are protected for ongoing community use.

H COM

12) Ensure that pedestrians are directed to designated paths to minimise damage to sensitive areas including important geological features, vegetation, dunes, Aboriginal and European heritage sites and other sites of significance. Manage and improve appropriate access to the Coast in order to protect natural resources and resolve conflicts in use.

H COM

13) Define appropriate fire refuge areas and fire/emergency access to the beach.

H CFA, COM

DIRECT: To provide clear direction for future use of the Anglesea Coast.

ACTIONS PRIORITY LEAD AGENCY 14) Review the long-term role of the Great Ocean Road through

Anglesea. M VR

15) Create clearer physical and thematic links between activity generators in Central Anglesea, including Coogoorah Park, the main commercial centre, the Anglesea River and the beach.

H SCS



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DEVELOP: To identify suitable development areas and development opportunities.

ACTIONS PRIORITY LEAD AGENCY 16) Reinforce Anglesea as a destination by developing its

strengths, particularly its natural environment. The proposed Great Ocean Road Discovery Centre would play a major role in this. This facility would provide information regarding the Surf Coast region's environmental values as well as recreation and tourism opportunities.

H SCS

17) Encourage new development and events in Anglesea in existing activity areas and on already degraded areas with minimal conservation value, whilst discouraging new development outside these areas.

M SCS

18) Develop the Anglesea River corridor as a stronger focus for the township with an emphasis upon the indigenous vegetation of the area.

H SCS

19) Improve facilities on the western side of the Anglesea River, including car parking, public amenities and commercial activities, to relieve pressure on more sensitive areas of the Anglesea Coast.

M SCS

COM Anglesea Foreshore Committee of Management EPA Environment Protection Authority AAV Aboriginal Affairs Victoria SCS Surf Coast Shire CFA Country Fire Authority VR VicRoads DNRE Department of Natural Resources and Environment ALSC Anglesea Life Saving Club AMYC Anglesea Motor Yacht Club



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4.4 Site Specific Issues and Actions A comprehensive program of actions has been developed for each area of the Anglesea Coast in response to issues identified by the community. When approaching the action program, it should be noted that the implementation of these actions will require detailed site investigations and subsequent detailed design, to address site features and issues, and appropriate approvals. 4.4.1 Red Rock to Anglesea River This zone is characterized by fragile, vertical cliffs that are exposed to significant wave action, causing large scale erosion. The cliffs also harbour large tracts of coastal heathland and woodland areas. The fragile features of this area will not support intense recreational activity. The primary role of this zone will, therefore, be conservation with provision of formal walking access for sightseeing and environmental interpretation only.



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Specific Issues • There remains a number of unnecessary and damaging tracks and roads, especially east of

Anglesea River. Serious environmental damage is occurring through erosion, siltation, mechanical destruction of plants etc.

• Access to the coast presents considerable public risk in certain areas because of the

instability of some parts of the cliffs. Access to “Grinders” is one example. • The quality of coastal views will continue to attract visitors to this area. However, current

infrastructure such as paths, car parking etc. can not safely cope with significant increases in demand.

• Increased access to the coast is causing continual degradation and detriment to flora and

fauna habitats. • The various camps located east of the Anglesea River (i.e. Recreation Camp and Scout

Camp) are isolated from the key recreation areas of Anglesea, particularly the beaches. • Limited access from the Recreation Camp to the beach, tends to direct users of the

Recreation Camp to walk through the Caravan Park. In addition, design and location of the western end of the Surf Coast Walk encourages the general public to walk through the Caravan Park to the beach. This can cause security problems for the operators of the Caravan Park and disturbance to campers.

• The cliffs east of the Anglesea Family Caravan Park are subject to significant erosion. • The Scout Camp is a major activity generator, however it is located in an environmentally

sensitive area on top of a coastal cliff. • There is a lack of education and interpretation in regard to coastal processes.



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Action Plan

ACTIONS PRIORITY LEAD AGENCY 20) Continue to monitor and re-vegetate cliff edges along the

eastern boundary of the Anglesea Family Caravan Park, to improve public safety and minimise erosion.

M COM

21) Continue to maintain cliff fences and signage, to restrict public access to cliff edges north of the Anglesea Family Caravan Park.

H COM

22) Direct beach walking away from the base of coastal cliffs. Signage should be installed indicating the dangers associated with the cliff, as far as practicable.

H COM

23) In regard to the existing concrete beach access, there are two key options for its future management, subject to detailed investigation: • Remove the existing structure and install a new structure

to provide safe beach access with minimal impact upon coastal processes, particularly sand movement.

• Retain and upgrade the existing structure, to provide a safe pedestrian access.

In each option, the ramp would not be used as a boat launching facility. With each option re-vegetate existing informal tracks between the river mouth and Cameron Road (Protect existing indigenous vegetation during any re-vegetation works).

H COM

24) Restrict motor vehicle access beyond the Ellimatta Reserve car park to help protect ecologically fragile cliff areas above Grinders. Access beyond this point should be for cyclists or pedestrians or for fire access and emergency purposes only. Access should be provided to the Surf Coast Walk and none down to the beach. Signage would indicate “Access to Surf Coast Walk Only”.

M COM

25) Reduce access to the Surf Coast Walk to a small number of existing tracks. All other obsolete tracks should be re-vegetated to protect indigenous flora and fauna, improve habitat values and increase cliff stability. Fire access tracks must be retained as necessary.

L COM

26) Fence and re-vegetate the existing informal beach-access points from the Eumeralla Scout Camp. Existing indigenous vegetation should be protected during any re-vegetation works.

M COM

27) Review the extent of Eumeralla Scout Camp activity, with a view to consolidating the camp area away from the fragile cliff edge. Access to the beach should be from either Red Rocks or Anglesea River.

H DNRE, SCOUT CAMP

28) Undertake a comprehensive flora and fauna survey in the vicinity of the Eumeralla Scout Camp area, in order to inform future management directions.

H COM SCOUT CAMP

29) Encourage the removal of weeds and non-indigenous plants from the gardens at the Eumeralla Scout Camp.

H SCOUT CAMP

30) Maintain the Surf Coast Walk to ensure stormwater run-off does not erode the path surface and expose the fragile sub-soils.

M COM

31) Prevent horse riding on the Surf Coast Walk and the cliff edge environs, in order to minimise soil erosion, and reduce the spread of environmental weeds.

M COM

32) Develop a signage program to: • educate the community in relation to coastal

geomorphology and processes; • highlight the impacts of inappropriate human activity upon

the local environment; • inform the community in relation to Aboriginal cultural

values and related legislation; • highlight significant flora and fauna; • warn of the dangers associated with unstable cliffs.

H SCS, DNRE, COM WATHAURONG



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4.4.2 Central Anglesea / Anglesea River The environs of the Anglesea River, including the main commercial areas, will play a key role in offering a diverse range of tourism, recreational and environmental opportunities. This is a particularly important role considering that a large proportion of this coastal area presents an unsafe or inappropriate environment for intense recreation use. The opportunities will include: • environmental rehabilitation • environmental education and tourism information • beach access • walking/cycle network • galleries/cafes • fishing • children’s play • river activities and recreation • river, woodland and wetland walks This zone will be the visitor focus for Anglesea, displaying and explaining the rich ecology of the area, and providing safe recreational opportunities.



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Specific Issues • The natural environment in this key area has been degraded (e.g. the Fairyland area) and is

under further threat. Restoration of the river environment (particularly the river banks) needs to be addressed.

• There are potential deleterious impacts of pollutant inputs (e.g. stormwater runoff) in the

Anglesea River saltmarsh. • Sedimentation is occurring within the Anglesea River as a result of stormwater discharge. • Erosion of the north side of the River is a significant issue. This erosion appears to have been

slowed partly due to recent groyne construction. • Erosion of the banks is exacerbated by fishermen parking their cars right up to the bank,

particularly upstream of the Great Ocean Road bridge. • The Anglesea River has limited links with the existing open space network and pedestrian

access routes. The paths along the river are unformed and do not provide direct links to the beach or to Coogoorah Park.

• Some of the bridges over the River within Coogoorah Park can be inaccessible during certain

times due to fluctuating water levels. • Existing path networks along the River are not sealed and access can be difficult particularly

after heavy rain. • Recreational and environmental values within Coogoorah Park are not clearly communicated

to the public.



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Action Plan

ACTIONS PRIORITY LEAD AGENCY 33) Re-vegetate islands within Coogoorah Park to prevent erosion,

improve landscape values, assist weed control and improve habitat. River bank areas should also be re-vegetated, where appropriate. Ex isting indigenous vegetation should be protected during any re-vegetation works.

H SCS,

34) Prevent vehicle access along the river to minimise soil erosion and encourage protection of habitat. Access should be limited to cyclists and pedestrians.

M SCS

35) Improve the amenity of Coogoorah Park through: • an improved car park at the end of Weir Street; • signage at the entries that explain recreation opportunities,

environmental values, bushfire impact, the relationship with the Power Station etc.;

• development of additional playground opportunities; • planting of shade trees; • construction of picnic shelters and improved seating; • modification of bridges and pathways to ensure pedestrian

access is possible during periods of high water levels; • better parking at the entry to Coogoorah Park off Bingley

Parade. This should remain a minor car park, recognizing the potential impacts upon residential amenity;

• the encouragement of other riverine based activities, such as bird watching, rowing, fishing, canoeing, etc.

• environmental education, via signage and other informative devices.

H SCS

36) Provide signage regarding recreation opportunities in Coogoorah Park, to be visible from the Great Ocean Road.

M SCS

37) Encourage appropriate tourist-related commercial uses along the Great Ocean Road between the bridge and the “Four Kings” area.

M SCS

38) Encourage the use of the southern “parkland” edge of the Anglesea River for community activities, such as markets, whilst taking traffic and parking issues into strong consideration

L SCS

39) Redevelop existing disturbed and filled areas to support the proposed Great Ocean Road Discovery Centre and to allow re-establishment of the indigenous flora, subject to relevant authority approval. In this way, the indigenous environment of the Anglesea River would become the key image of central Anglesea and the first image that visitor will see upon arrival. (Existing indigenous vegetation should be protected during any re-vegetation works.) Modification of this area will also provide space for picnics and other informal recreation to become part of a recreational corridor that physically and visually links the Discovery Centre with the Anglesea River estuary.

H SCS

40) Should the Bowling and Tennis Club's relocate in the future, investigate opportunities to extend eco-tourism-based development, centred on the proposed Great Ocean Road Discovery Centre, and associated with the further re-establishment of indigenous vegetation.

L SCS, DNRE,

41) Improve the physical relationship between the commercial/ shopping centre and the proposed G.O.R. Discovery Centre site (subject to approval) across the Great Ocean Road through an improved pedestrian crossing system.

H SCS

42) Develop a coordinated cycle and pedestrian access system linking: • Coogoorah Park; • The Commercial Centre; • The saltmarsh and wetland environs; • The river mouth and the main beach. • West bank open space.

H SCS

43) Undertake a re-vegetation program on the river edge as opportunities arise, including protection of remnant Melaleuca lanceolata (Moonah) and the establishment of new stands of Moonah. (Existing indigenous vegetation to be protected during any re-vegetation works.)

M DNRE, SCS, COM



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44) Continue the installation of silt traps to further minimize the

aggregation of gravel and silt in the river. M SCS

45) Re-establish a “natural edge” to the eastern river bank, allowing a more “natural” ebb and flow of the river subject to appropriate engineering advice. This would be combined with a boardwalk to ensure public safety and provide a permanent means of access to the commercial centre, and potentially the beach.

M COM

46) Investigate the re-alignment of the Surf Coast Walk to avoid conflicts with Anglesea Family Caravan Park. A revised route would run along the north-east boundary of the Caravan Park to Cameron Road.

H COM

47) Investigate the creation of continuous pedestrian access along the eastern river edge between the main commercial area and the river mouth. Detailed design would need to take into account a number of issues including: • controlling access into the Anglesea Family Caravan Park

lease area; • the impacts on camping along the river edge; • provision of public amenities; • protection of the eastern river bank, particularly in relation

to erosion due to the unstable nature of fill material in this area;

• not encouraging access to fragile cliff areas; • maintaining security for Caravan Park patrons; • protecting and displaying indigenous flora.

H SCS, DNRE, COM

48) Initiate a project to study the decline of the saltmarsh community beside the river and the options for rehabilitation.

H COM

49) Initiate a project to study the decline of the Fairyland Moonah community and recommend options for rehabilitation.

H COM, SCS

4.4.3 Main Beach Along with Point Roadknight, the Main Beach is the most popular beach recreation area in Anglesea. The Main Beach should continue to be a major focus for family recreation due to its proximity to the township, the river and the Anglesea Surf Life Saving Club.



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Specific Issues • Vehicle access from the main beach to the Great Ocean Road is hazardous due to poor sight

lines. • Pedestrian access to the beach from the west (from Soapy Rock and Middle Beach) is

difficult. • The existing Anglesea Surf Life Saving Club car parks are difficult to access and appear

inadequate in size. • The main car park is in poor condition and has poor access to the main beach. • Signage is poor, as it does not clearly indicate adjacent areas where cliffs are unstable, which

can present a risk to personal safety. • Dunes to the east of the Life Saving Club are subject to erosion by wave action. This is a

natural process supplying sand to the main beach, with long term data suggesting that the dune system as a whole is relatively stable.

• The Anglesea Surf Life Saving Club boat ramp is a dangerous and unsightly facility,

particularly where it meets the beach.



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Action Plan

ACTIONS PRIORITY LEAD AGENCY 50) Improve the existing vehicle access to the Surf Life Saving Club from the Great Ocean Road. This may involve:

• the modification of existing vegetation along the Great Ocean Road;

• Investigating the creation of a new access point on cleared land to the east of the existing access;

• Investigating additional car parking on existing cleared areas east of the existing access.

H ASLSC

51) Review the entire beach access layout between Great Ocean Road and the beach in the vicinity of the Surf Life Saving Club. A modified access system should address:

• erosion and other impacts on the dunes and beach; • signage; • the rock wall below the Surf Life Saving Club; • improvements to the Surf Life Saving Club’s boat ramp; • the provision of safe alternative pedestrian access.

M COM, ASLSC

52) Investigate the removal of the old weir, particularly in relation to its effect on water flow in the Anglesea River.

L COM

53) Develop a signage system to: • explain erosion/dune management measures; • explain recreation regulations; • interpret coastal processes and warn of hazards.

M COM

54) Recognise the use of the main beach as a “safe swimming” focus through the regulation of surfing and sailboarding.

L ALSC

55) Formalize the main beach car park to provide more efficient parking for users of the main beach. This should include the provision of shade trees, removal of senescent Cypress trees (Cupressus macrocarpa) and control of stormwater runoff, to reduce its impacts upon the car park surface.

H COM

56) Protect the main dune from erosion due to pedestrian activity. M COM 57) Investigate removal of the existing toilet block and its

replacement with a new structure within the existing Surf Life Saving Club building.

M COM

58) Provide seating below the Surf Club to the east, overlooking the beach

L COM



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4.4.4 Surf Life Saving Club to Motor Yacht Club This section of coast is formed of very reactive coastal geology with very little protection from wave and wind forces. The resulting cliff landform will always be quite unstable. Low tide, however, exposes a wide beach, presenting recreation opportunities away from the fragile cliff area. The role of this zone will be primarily the protection of existing environmental and cultural values, allowing for recreational beach use when appropriate.

Specific Issues • The cliffs below the lower Great Ocean Road lookout are unstable, subject to slumping and

erosion. This has implications for the location and use of the Power lookout. There will, however, be continued demand from visitors to take advantage of panoramic views in this area.

• The protection of existing flora, particularly indigenous ground orchids in the vicinity of the

upper lookout is an issue. • Visitor facilities in this zone are in short supply or do not exist. These include adequate car

parking, interpretive and directional signage. • There can be significant amounts of traffic along Melba Parade during peak periods, leading

to congestion in Anglesea. • The landslip area above Soapy Rocks is subject to significant soil erosion. • Erosion of the cliff face north of the Motor Yacht Club boat ramp access has steadily been

increasing and is now presenting a public risk due to its instability. The fragile nature of these cliffs would be impacted negatively by increased use in this area.



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Action Plan

ACTIONS PRIORITY LEAD AGENCY 59) Re-vegetate the existing informal access tracks at the top of the

coastal cliffs. This will be particularly important in relation to the "Soapy Rocks" area to minimize the groundwater build-up. (All existing indigenous vegetation should be protected during any re-vegetation works).

M COM

60) Investigate the provision of a formal walking track linking the Surf Life Saving Club, the Upper Lookout and the Point Roadknight Beach. Any new tracks or trails should be sited and designed to minimise potential public risk, particularly in relation to cliff stability and environmental change.

M COM

61) Following recent geo-technical investigations, modify the existing car "pull-over" area below the main lookout, recognizing its potential instability and the associated public risk. In the short-term reduce the area to accommodate parallel parking of buses and, in the long-term, remove parking entirely. Fence and re-vegetate the area to prevent public access along the cliff edge.

H SCS, COM, VR

62) Improve visitor facilities at the upper lookout area to assist in the removal of the lower “pull-over” area. Long-term improvements would include: • improved bus access and parking • sealing the car park; • providing seating; • providing public toilets; • linking the area to local open-space trails; • signage that orientates visitors to the Surf Coast and the • Great Ocean Road as well as Anglesea itself. Any improvements must respect remnant heathland in this area, as well as residential amenity. The development of a management Master Plan is recommended to guide any w orks.

H SCS

63) Investigate options to encourage sand accretion to assist in protecting the coastal cliffs. Options would include: • A beach groyne to hold sand. • Beach re-nourishment. The potential impacts of any proposed structure on other safe beaches and wider coastal processes would need to be thoroughly assessed prior to construction.

L COM, DNRE

64) Nominate intertidal access only between the Surf Life Saving Club and Middle Beach, in conjunction with improved signage advising of tides and potential cliff instability.

M COM

65) Undertake a landscape management plan to address re-vegetation and erosion control on the Soapy Rocks landslip area and investigate the provision of a safe access structure over Soapy Rocks along with signage advising of instability/danger related to coast geology.

H COM



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4.4.5 Motor Yacht Club to Point Roadknight The combination of coast form and wave action produces a sheltered, shallow bay at Point Roadknight, which is the most popular and safe family beach on the Anglesea coast. With the relative lack of safe swimming beaches on this coast, the beach from Point Roadknight to the Motor Yacht Club will continue to be a key focus for family beach recreation in Anglesea. Buildings within the Point Roadknight precinct include the Anglesea Motor Yacht Club, kiosk and toilets. These buildings are located separately from one another, which serves to reinforce the separation of family swimming activity from boating activity. The sheltered nature of the bay means the area will also have a fishing and boating focus. Being the only sheltered landing between Apollo Bay and Torquay, it may also have a strategic role as a “safe harbour” for fishing vessels and low powered vessels.



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Specific Issues • Point Roadknight is the most popular family swimming beach in Anglesea. This function,

however, presents some conflict with boating activity, particularly in the vicinity of the Anglesea Motor Yacht Club.

• The boat access ramp provides a useful “barrier” between the safe swimming beach and the

beach to the north, adjacent to the cliffs. However, the boat access ramp is unsafe in certain conditions, presently a public risk, and needs to be reconstructed.

• The Anglesea Motor Yacht Club has a number of proposals for alterations to the existing

Yacht Club building, which need to be assessed within a strategic view of the coast. • The condition of the Point Roadknight car park is poor and is prone to flooding during winter. • The existing car park adjacent to the Anglesea Motor Yacht Club is poorly configured for

trailer parking and turning. • There are a number of threats to the extensive Moonah woodland in this zone, including poor

drainage and soil compaction. • The existing boat ramp may currently be acting as a groyne, impacting upon sand movement

along the foreshore. This may be exposing the cliffs north of the beach access ramp to additional erosion risk, as the result of wave action. This restriction of sand movement from the south, however, contributes to safe swimming conditions and hence the popularity of this beach.

The true nature of current sand movements in the Point Roadknight bay is not clear and should be subject to a study that accurately identifies them. This will clarify the nature of present tidal impacts and provide a framework for the management and future planning of this area.



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Action Plan

ACTIONS PRIORITY LEAD AGENCY 66) Retain the Motor Yacht Club in its present location, providing a

clear focus for boating activity, and a separation of safe swimming areas from areas of unstable cliffs.

M

67) Upgrade the existing toilet block and kiosk facilities, in line with current standards and health regulations.

M COM

68) Conduct an investigation into pedestrian and boat access adjacent to the Motor Yacht Club. This should assess the existing ramp and consider: • Removing the existing beach access ramp and create a safe

new structure allowing movement of sand. This structure would be of a scale sufficient to recognize the strategic role of the bay as a “safe harbour” and to allow launching of small boats. This is the preferred option.

• Retaining the existing barrier structure to restrict the nature of the northward movement of sand and so maintain the “safe beach condition” at Point Roadknight.

• Re-nourish the sand on the beach, north of the Yacht Club, to reduce the impact of wave action upon the cliffs between the Yacht Club and Soapy Rocks.

Any actions in this area must be subject to a comprehensive study of sand movements, and the impacts upon beach amenity.

H COM

69) As a long-term goal pursue to consolidation of coastal structures, including the toilet block and Motor Yacht Club. This will assist in minimizing visitor impacts on unstable cliff areas and provide opportunities for re-vegetation/habitat restoration.

L COM

70) Formalize the Motor Yacht Club car park and modify its layout to reduce its proximity to the cliff edge. This will involve fencing and re-vegetation of the cliff edge, to reduce public risk and minimise soil erosion. It may also involve greater control of vehicle movements around the Motor Yacht Club, such as separate access and egress for vehicles with boat trailers, or separate parking of cars and trailers. This will be subject to detailed site survey and design for this area. All existing indigenous vegetation should be protected during re-vegetation works.

H COM, AMYC

71) Formalize the existing main car park, to make it more efficient and to control stormwater run-off. Provide shade for cars through the use of indigenous tree species.

H COM

72) Re-vegetate the informal access tracks at the top of the cliffs to: • prevent public access on fragile areas; • reduce soil erosion; • improve habitat values; • Protect existing Moonah woodland.

M COM

73) Initiate a management plan for the point of Point Roadknight to address: • erosion control; • damage to environmental values, including impacts upon

fauna habitat; • the existing Moonah woodland including a comprehensive

survey and aboricultural assessment of existing species; • environmental protection; • community environmental education.

H DNRE

74) Provide signage to interpret and protect the rock platform at Point Roadknight. Also signage, prohibiting access to the sand dunes by the general public, is required at various access points.

M COM

75) Initiate a comprehensive assessment of Moonah communities in this zone, and implement actions to ensure protection of the communities. Actions may include fencing, removal of existing access tracks, and revegetation.



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4.4.6 Point Roadknight to O’Donohue Road The presence of off-shore rock reefs and exposure to the south indicate that this area can not be considered a major family beach. However, its proximity to residential areas and the existing formed access points over stable dunes indicate that this will be a popular zone for beach-based recreation such as strolling and sightseeing. In this sense, it will be an important starting point for pedestrian access to beaches to the west. Conservation of remnant vegetation will also be important within this zone.

Specific Issues • There are a number of existing access points between Melba Parade and the beach, south of

Point Roadknight. These provide public access over fragile dune areas, to a beach which is not considered suitable for swimming. Appropriate signage/information is therefore an issue.

• While parts of this area act to service visitor demand, this needs to be weighed against the

protection of residential amenity which can be threatened during peak months. • Car parks along this stretch of foreshore are limited, and are in relatively poor condition. Action Plan

ACTIONS PRIORITY LEAD AGENCY 76) Implement a signage system that advises visitors of the beach’s

characteristics and directs them to alternative safe beaches. Signage should also advise the public in relation to dune protection.

M COM

77) Investigate appropriate landscape treatment of Melba Parade to recognize parking pressure that occurs during peak visitor periods, but also protect resident amenity.

M SCS

78) Maintain the condition of the existing pedestrian access structures over the dunes to ensure they continue to protect the dune environment.

M COM

79) Formalize the car park at the corner of O’Donohue Road and Melba Parade to provide more efficient parking and control stormwater run-off and erosion.

M COM

80) Investigate formalizing the small car park at the end of Tw elfth Avenue.

L COM

81) Provide fencing of dunes to prevent access and vegetation damage. This fencing should be extended beyond O'Donohue Road.

M COM



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4.4.7 O'Donohue Road to Urquhart Bluff This stretch of foreshore reserve provides very high scenic and flora and fauna values. It also provides a sense of isolation due to limited beach access and often unpredictable and wild sea conditions. These features also reduce this zone’s capabilities to accommodate general water-based recreational use other than surfing and primarily passive activities. This zone also provides the first panoramic views of the Great Ocean Road and the surrounding spectacular hinterland and thus has very high landscape values.

Specific Issues • Increasing visitation to the Surf Coast creates additional vehicle movements on the Great

Ocean Road. This increases pressure for beach access from the GOR. • Peak demand days often result in an under-supply of car parking. The provision of additional

parking, however, needs to be balanced with the carrying capacity of the coast. • Dune areas need to be protected against visitor traffic. • Subdivision on the Anglesea Heathland has been approved in the past leaving some scope

for additional residential development. This development has controls placed upon it, via the Planning Scheme and the Trust for Nature and care must be taken to ensure that these controls are maintained. The design of any new development must have the least possible impact on views of the wild coast, in accordance with the Design and Siting Guidelines for the Victorian Coast.

• Important habitats exist in this area for the nesting of Hooded Plovers and other fauna

species, such as the Rufuous Bristle Bird.



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Action Plan

ACTIONS PRIORITY LEAD AGENCY 82) Continue to fence dunes and upgrade/reinstate protection works

to protect vegetation and dune soils, particularly between Urquhart Bluff and Point Roadknight. This will include appropriate fencing of car park areas.

M COM

83) Develop a detailed landscape plan to address: • Modifying the entry to Gavo's car park through re-vegetation

to reduce its visual prominence. Sightlines to oncoming traffic must be maintained or improved. These modifications must not reduce car parking spaces.

• Manage existing vegetation along the Great Ocean Road to ensure safe sightlines when exiting from existing car parks.

• Surfacing of car parks to minimize erosion and improve efficiency of parking.

• Options for managing summer parking and traffic demands on the Great Ocean Road, including: Option 1: Investigate a reduced speed limit in peak periods to recognize and allow for parallel parking on the road verge. Option 2: Provide a series of designated “parallel parking” zones for use during peak periods in conjunction with a reduced speed limit. Zones would be achieved through fencing and vegetation management.

H COM, VR, SCS

84) Ensure that the planning process protects the viewshed of the Great Ocean Road from the visual intrusion of structures, particularly on the hinterland when viewed from key public viewing points. The Siting and Design Guidelines for Structures on the Victorian Coast (May, 1998) should be adhered to in this respect.

H SCS

85) Develop a signage system which directs visitors to alternative car parking/beach access opportunities along the Anglesea Coast. This is in recognition of high visitation and minimal parking facilities during the peak season.

M VR

86) Protect existing habitat areas of the Hooded Plover and other fauna species that utilize the zone such as the Rufuous Bristle Bird. This will include investigating the prohibition of dogs in the area from September to February.

H COM



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4.4.8 Urquhart Bluff Urquhart Bluff provides a point of access to a beach of high scenic and environmental values. Rock reefs and occasionally treacherous water conditions indicate that Urquhart Bluff should not be promoted as a swimming beach but rather a location for sight-seeing and strolling, for protection of the indigenous environment and for experienced surfing.

Specific Issues • There is inadequate car parking compared to existing and anticipated demand, and

inadequate visitor amenity. • Frontal dunes and associated vegetation need to be protected from visitor pressure. • Any spread of environmental weeds into coastal heath areas will have negative impacts upon

habitat and bio-diversity, considering the high environmental values in this zone. • Traditional fencing of dune areas is unreliable due to significant wave action. • The beach area is attracting a range of informal activities, including beach camping. • Cars using the “pull-over” area at the top of Urquhart Bluff can currently encroach

dangerously close to the cliff edge. • Jet skis have become more prevalent in the area in recent years, raising concerns about

conflicts with traditional water-based activities such as swimming and surfing and impacts upon the experience of visiting a remote, isolated beach.



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Action Plan

ACTIONS PRIORITY LEAD AGENCY 87) Improve amenity and function of the existing car park through:

• new tree planting • new seating/furniture • improving drainage • improving the car park surface

M COM

88) Nominate inter-tidal beach level access only between the Urquhart Bluff car park and the beach to the west. Formed access should not be provided, nor should it be provided over the top of the Bluff.

L COM

89) Develop an integrated sign system informing visitors of: • Aboriginal/cultural heritage • Coast/beach care • Flora/fauna values • Off-shore hazards e.g. The Rip • Beach opportunities to the west • Occasionally unsafe swimming/surfing conditions.

M DNRE, SCS, COM

90) Investigate options for treatment of the access road to the car park, including: • Sealing the access road. • Providing for parallel parking. • Improving fencing along the access road to remove the need

for fencing at the front of the dune. • Re-vegetating the edges to control parallel parking.

H COM

91) Modify the intersection of the access road and the Great Ocean Road to improve sightlines.

H COM

92) Review the use of jet skis in this area and their impact upon landscape values and visitor experience.

M COM

93) Replace bollards at car park at the top of Urquhart Bluff or investigate alternative safety design.

L VR, SCS

94) Re-vegetate and provide ongoing maintenance of verges along the Great Ocean Road, including old sections of the road now not being used.

L SCS, VR



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5.0 IMPLEMENTATION AND FUNDING

5.1 Responsibility for Implementation The Coastal Management Act 1995 states that: “In carrying out a function involving land management - • on behalf of the Crown; or • under an Act – a Minister, public authority, committee of management of reserved Crown land or municipal council must take all reasonable steps to give effect to a Coastal Action Plan applying to that land.” In practical terms the local land managers will have responsibility for implementing the Coastal Action Plan (CAP). Thus the primary responsibility will fall to the Anglesea Foreshore Committee of Management, the Department of Natural Resources and Environment and the Surf Coast Shire Council with various other bodies having minor roles. Guidance for the future direction of management of the Anglesea coast can be found in the recently completed Crown Land Management Review. The major conclusions of this review were that: • appointment of committees be skills-based rather than public elections; • Local Government be encouraged to take a greater role in coastal management; • gradual reduction in the number of management bodies to ensure more integrated/consistent

coastal management. Thus the Western Coastal Board makes the following recommendations:

ACTIONS PRIORITY LEAD AGENCY 95) That the Anglesea Foreshore Committee enter into negotiations

with DNRE and the Surf Coast Shire Council to progress implementation of the Crown Land Management Review.

H COM/NRE/SCS

In addition, the Victorian Planning Provisions state: “Planning authorities must have regard to any Victorian Coastal Strategy endorsed by the Minister for Conservation and Land Management, any relevant Coastal Action Plan and any relevant approved Land Conservation Council Recommendation.” It is expected that the final plan will become a referral document in the Surf Coast Shire Planning Scheme.

ACTIONS PRIORITY LEAD AGENCY 96) That the Surf Coast Shire consider the approved Anglesea

Coastal Action Plan becoming a referral document in the Surf Coast Shire Planning Scheme.

M SCS

Thus the legislative and policy framework for implementation of the approved plan is well established.



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5.2 Project Management There are three key players in implementing the plan. These are: Anglesea Foreshore Committee of Management – Responsible for day to day management and planning of the Anglesea Foreshore. Department of Natural Resources and Environment – Responsible for Crown Land Management, with delegated powers for coastal approvals from the Minister for Conservation and Land Management. Surf Coast Shire Council – Responsible Authority under the Planning and Environment Act and responsible for strategic and statutory planning for Anglesea. The Anglesea Foreshore Committee currently has delegated power from the Minister for Conservation and Land Management for managing the Anglesea Foreshore. In the short term this situation will continue pending the outcome of the discussions with NRE and the Surf Coast Shire regarding future management arrangements. Until new management arrangements are in place, the Anglesea Foreshore Committee is encouraged to take a co-operative approach to project management and involve NRE, the Shire and other stakeholders in decision making and implementation.

5.3 Site Specific Approvals Although the plan as a whole will be endorsed by the Minister for Conservation and Land Management, parts of it are conceptual only and the detail has not been prescribed. Site specific approvals for elements of the plan will still be required to deal with design issues and to ensure they are consistent with the intent of the plan. The approvals process will be shown in Appendix 5 of the Victorian Coastal Strategy and both planning approval and approval from the Minister for Conservation and Land Management’s delegate are needed in some instances. However, as the developments being considered will be within the approved strategic framework of the CAP, the approvals process should be relatively straightforward.



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APPENDIX A - CONSULTATION SUMMARY The methodology included substantial community consultation including: • Discussions with key stakeholders, including:

- Anglesea Surf Life Saving Club - Anglesea Motor Yacht Club - Anglesea Arts Group - Anglesea Tennis Club - Anglesea Bowling Club - Anglesea Family Caravan Park - Eumeralla Scout Camp - Go Ride a Wave - Australian Marine Conservation Society - Anglesea Recreation Camp - Aboriginal Affairs, Victoria - Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative - Anglesea Historical Society - Roadknight Coast Action - Angair - VicRoads - Department of Natural Resources and Environment - Surf Coast Shire - Anglesea Foreshore Committee

Communication with these parties was made through letters, phone discussions and individual meetings. Discussions with many of the groups continued throughout the study process. • A community workshop was held on August 21st, 1998, during the issues and opportunities

stage to verify emerging issues and gain further community comment. All the above stakeholders were invited to the workshop in addition to a public advertisement inviting members of the local community.

• Public display of draft recommendations and plans for a period of one month, from

September 26th, 1998 to October 26th, 1998. • A community workshop was held on October 21st, 1998 during the display of plans to further

discuss draft proposals. Stakeholder groups were invited and the workshop was publicly advertised.



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Responses to the Draft Responses were generally positive with support coming from key stakeholder groups as well as other individual parties. The majority of the 15 individual respondents were either members or users of the Motor Yacht Club, people who regularly used the Point Roadknight Beach or residents around the Melba Parade precinct. The responses covered a range of issues, with the following seen as the most pressing: • Nine respondents opposed the consolidation of facilities (Motor Yacht Club and toilets etc.) to

one location. It was considered important to clearly differentiate pedestrian access and movement with vehicle movements associated with the Motor Yacht Club.

• There were five responses that supported the removal of parking from the edge of the cliffs at

the Motor Yacht Club and five responses that supported the removal of non-boat trailer vehicles and pedestrians from same car park. Issues regarding revegetation and erosion control were generally supported.

• Five respondents opposed change to the existing beach access ramp, although these may

have misunderstood the proposed action as removal of the access. • Four respondents raised a preferred option of refurbishing the existing toilet block rather than

its relocation. • Three responses supported the Study Team's concerns over access and egress onto the

Great Ocean Road from the Surf Life Saving Club car park and another three supported the sealing of Melba Parade with associated stormwater works.

• Three responses reminded the Study Team of the unsuitability of boating to the north of the

access ramp because of the rocky off shore condition. • Two respondents supported the modification of the lower Great Ocean Road lookout/pullover

area as a major concern. The balance of the project was generally supported although individuals raised a number of other points of concern. These concerns included: • Ensuring that improvements to existing car parking did not result in a reduction in parking

numbers. • Modifying camping at cliff and river edges of the caravan park and the potential impact upon

the Caravan Park business. • Location of the Great Ocean Road Discovery Centre and its relationship with the shopping

centre. It was considered important to ensure that actions in the vicinity of the river are compatible with the Discovery Centre and that the Discovery Centre is well related to the Shopping Centre.

• The need for erosion control measures required above Soapy Rocks. • Revegetation of the dune at Main Beach and the potential impact upon the supply of sand to

the beach. The accumulation of sand to the main beach was also raised. There was generally a concern that sand movements must be well understood prior to undertaking any actions related specifically to beaches.



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• Concern at the cost and sustainability of beach re-nourishment. • Restricting access between the Surf Life Saving Club and Soapy Rocks was seen as less

desirable than improving signage information and providing safer access over the rocks to the beach.

• Generally improving amenities and facilities within the Anglesea River corridor, making this a

focus for recreation in conjunction with revegetation initiatives. • Ensuring that signage does not become visually obtrusive.

Responses from Groups Responses from Stakeholder Groups for the study have been summarised as follows: The Anglesea Surf Life Saving Club • There was general approval to all recommendations with the following issues particularly

highlighted: • Need for emergency vehicle access to key access points along the study area. • Need for educational signage at all beach access points and riverine areas. • Provision of safer access, adjacent to the existing ramp at the Surf Life Saving Club. • Removal of the toilet block in dunes above the Main Beach. • A full investigation of existing drainage around the Club. • Investigating the replacement of sand at the Main Beach. Vicroads VicRoads issued a brief statement, supporting the study recommendations and expressed their pleasure to cooperate in the range of issues involving the Great Ocean Road. Aboriginal Affairs Victoria Aboriginal Affairs Victoria gave general support to the Study's recommendations, but qualified with the need to provide the following additional recommendations: • All land to be disturbed or rebuilt should be assessed to determine the existence of any

aboriginal cultural sites. • Parties involved in the disturbance or rebuilding of the land should fund the above mentioned

archaeological assessments. • No sites should be destroyed or disturbed without permission from Aboriginal Affairs Victoria. • All educational and interpretative material should be developed in conjunction with the

Wathaurong people and Aboriginal Affairs Victoria.



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Anglesea Motor Yacht Club (Inc.) The Motor Yacht Club provided a comprehensive response to the study recommendations, with comments provided for each section of the study area. Support was given for: • Recommendations outlining improvement of existing drainage and stormwater run-off (i.e.

sealing of roads, silt traps, revegetation of some paths and vehicular entries, construction of walks and lookouts).

• Improvement of access and egress from the Surf Life Saving Club car park onto the Great

Ocean Road. • Recommendations associated with the river. Most concerns centred on the recommendations relating to the co-location of the Motor Yacht Club and public amenities. Other concerns raised by the Club include the following: • Suggestions for groyne placements along the coast. • Retention of the Motor Yacht Club facility in its current location. • Opposition to the concept of a safe harbour. • Provision of access across the river mouth. • Dredging of the river to remove road gravel and silt. • Concern over relocation of Bowling and Tennis Club. • Concern over viability of Great Ocean Road Discovery Centre. Combined Submission by Angair, The Australian Marine Conservation Society and Roadknight Coast Action. The combined submission presents some global issues that were seen as being important to the whole study area. These were as follows: • Eradication and control of environmental weeds. • Eradication and control of pest animals. • Concern over the lack of focus on the marine environment, especially the movement of sand

along the coast. • Protection of the marine environment. The remaining balance of the letter provided a detailed response to each of the zones defined in the study. There was general support for the majority of proposals. The detailed comments made by the three groups were quite numerous, with the most significant concerns being: • Viability of restricting vehicular access at the top of Grinders. • Identification and protection of significant areas of vegetation along coastal cliff zones.



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• Ensuring water quality within the Anglesea River and implementing appropriate stormwater run-off controls for the river and cliff areas.

• Allowing for a formal walking track between the Surf Life Saving Club and the Motor Yacht

Club. Department of Natural Resources and Environment • The Department of Natural Resources and Environment also provided a detailed response to

a number of points raised in the draft report. Major comments included: • The need to identify a range of general recommendations/principles applicable across the

study area. • The need to protect indigenous flora during revegetation actions. • Recognising the impact of "on the ground" conditions upon the detailed implementation of

strategic actions. • The need to accurately identify and monitor sources of pollution in the Anglesea River. • Recognising and protecting significant habitat areas (e.g. the Hooded Plover at Urquhart

Bluff). • The need to carefully manage access, particularly of vehicles, in a number of sensitive

locations. Geelong Environment Council The Geelong Environment Council was supportive of the Draft Coastal Action Plan. It emphasized particularly the need to recognise and protect the "internationally significant" flora and fauna values within the Study Area, and taking up opportunities for establishing indigenous flora. Anglesea Foreshore Committee of Management The submission of the Anglesea Foreshore Committee of Management requested a series of clarifications and amendments to a number of proposed actions, but were supportive of the broad majority of proposals.



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APPENDIX B - CONDITIONS RELATING TO WORKS (ABORIGINAL HERITAGE)

Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Management Recommendations All recorded and unrecorded Aboriginal sites, places and objects are protected under the State Archaeological and Aboriginal Relics Preservation Act 1972, and the Commonwealth Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander Heritage Protection Act 1984. The following cultural heritage management actions are recommended: Monitoring and protection of aboriginal heritage sites will involve the following actions in relation to physical works: • All land subject to ground disturbance by the strategies/actions in the Coastal Action Plan

should be surveyed to locate, record and assess Aboriginal sites, places and objects prior to the commencement of any works. This includes land which may be disturbed by associated works such as new access roads, buildings, services and revegetation. The survey should be undertaken by an archaeologist and a Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative representative and is to be funded by the agency undertaking the ground disturbing action(s).

• Any archaeological sampling, salvage excavations or site protection works which may be

recommended as a result of the above-mentioned survey should be undertaken by an archaeologist and a Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative representative and should be funded by the agency undertaking the ground disturbing action(s).

• No recorded or unrecorded Aboriginal sites, places or objects may be disturbed or destroyed

without prior written consent from the Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative, as nominated for the purposes of Part IIA of the (Commonwealth) Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Heritage Protection Act 1984.

• Any educational and interpretive material (e.g. signs) relating to Aboriginal cultural heritage

are to be developed in close consultation with the Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative and Aboriginal Affairs Victoria.



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APPENDIX C - GEOMORPHOLOGY This Appendix (prepared by Neville Rosengren of Environmental GeoSurveys Pty. Ltd. and LaTrobe University, Bendigo) provides an overview of the geology and geomorphology of the Anglesea coast between Red Rock and Urquhart Bluff. It then focuses on the area between the mouth of the Anglesea River and Point Roadknight, detailing coastal processes occurring in this area.

Overview 1. Geology The study encloses an area of sedimentary and volcanic rocks. Geologically it is a part of the Torquay Basin, a predominantly sedimentary unit hundreds of metres thick deposited during Tertiary times (the last 65 million years), but including some layers of weathered volcanic rock. The Tertiary rocks are magnificently exposed along the coastline, providing considerable detail of the geological history. A variety of geological environments is recorded in these rocks ranging from non-marine sands and gravels to shallow and deeper water marine deposits of limestone and mud. In the study area, the principal sedimentary exposures are in the near vertical and slumped cliffs forming Demons Bluff, and in the cliffs between Soapy Rocks and the Anglesea Surf Lifesaving Club. The Demons Bluff exposures extend continuously for about 1.5 km east of the Caravan Park to Grinders. They are gently tilted soft, grey to brownish black organic (coal) clayey and fine sandy sediment with numerous marine worm burrows. Higher in the cliffs, the darker sediments have weathered to a paler coloured rock while some broken blocks at the cliff base have hardened to a reddish brown sandstone, particularly at Grinders. Between Grinders and Black Rock (also known as Red Rock) the cliff has collapsed and the mass of fallen rock obscures the continuity of the outcrop. Another excellent geological section occurs west and southwest of the Anglesea Surf Lifesaving Club. Here the Angahook Member of the Demons Bluff Formation is exposed in bluffs below the lookout on the Great Ocean Road and in the multiple cliffs at Soapy Rocks. The Angahook Member is a complex geological unit and includes weathered basaltic lava and fragmental volcanic rocks as well as thin sand and gravel beds. This complex of beds is responsible for the slope failure at Soapy Rocks. Tertiary volcanic rocks, part of a volcanic complex that extends to Aireys Inlet, also crop out at the western end of the study area at Urquhart Bluff. The narrow spine of rock that forms Point Roadknight is a remnant of the dune limestone that is more extensive further east at Barwon Heads and the Nepean Peninsula. 2. Geomorphology This is a coast of contrasts. It includes some of the highest and steepest cliff sectors on the Victorian coast, stretches of sandy beach backed by dunes and the estuary and lagoon of the Anglesea River. The coast between Red Rock and Grinders is a continuous landslip that comprises one of the largest mass movement features on the Victorian coast. This is a complex rotational slide backed by an upper cliff and a gullied surface of fractured and tumbled blocks and pinnacles. At its base is a low cliff where the slumped material is being cut back by wave action. Between Grinders and the Anglesea River, the cliffs reach over 50 metres high. The soft rock strata are intersected by vertical and inclined joint fractures and these are readily enlarged by weathering. Blocks that slide from the upper parts of the cliff disintegrate to form cones and fans of broken rock at the cliff base. The Demons Bluff cliffs are unusually steep and in places probably overhang.



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There is a very real risk of further substantial slope failures in this area. East of Grinders, this failure is likely to be local and related to the collapse or slumping of earth pinnacles and low secondary cliffs. By contrast the very steep Demons Bluff cliffs west of Grinders are prone to extensive, linear failure of the type that has already occurred to the east of Grinders. Additionally, there is the risk of localized slumping and toppling of blocks and slabs from high in the cliff face. Very clear warnings should be provided to users of both the cliff tops and the beach of the risks associated with being in the vicinity of the top and base of these cliffs. The cliff profiles developed west of the Anglesea River are less steep and the crest and lower slopes are incised by a number of shallow gullies. Between Point Roadknight and Urquhart Bluff the coast is backed by high dunes developed in front of low bluffs. These are partly covered by grassy, heath and shrub vegetation. This area presents lesser hazards than the high cliffed areas. Oversteepened slopes can develop at the base of the high dunes when they are cut back by storm waves. No remedial or preventative action is warranted for this sector. The cliffs at Urquhart Bluff are of similar geology to Soapy Rocks. Here, as at all other areas of Tertiary geology in the study area, the potential for slope failure must be appreciated. There is minimal development of shore platforms in the Tertiary sedimentary area, north of Point Roadknight. The best development of platforms are in the calcarenite rocks on the ocean-facing coast at Point Roadknight and in the weathered volcanic rocks at Urquhart Bluff. Given the sparseness of shore platforms, sandy beaches are the most common littoral landform in the study area. The Demons Bluff beaches and those at Soapy Rocks and Urquhart Bluff are usually covered at high tide. Point Roadknight to Anglesea River 1. Geomorphology and Coastal Processes The configuration of this gently curving embayment is determined by four factors: i. The remnant ridge of dune calcarenite forming Point Roadknight; ii. The gently dipping Tertiary sedimentary beds east of Melba Parade; iii. The valley incised by the Anglesea River; iv. Offshore reefs that modify wave action in the vicinity of the Anglesea River mouth. Point Roadknight Dune Point Roadknight is a narrow ridge built of cross-bedded sandstone. This was originally heaped up as dunes during lower sea level times when wide beaches and sand fields were exposed on the floor of Bass Strait. Point Roadknight is a remnant of a much longer and broader feature that extended east-west as an irregular series of low ridges and hills of limestone. These have been consumed by marine erosion as sea level has risen but undersea remnants form reefs washed by breaking waves. The ocean coastline at Point Roadknight is fringed by a broad, almost level shore platform swept clean of sediment by strong wave action. This platform narrows at the point and does not continue inside the bay. The narrow spine of Point Roadknight is continually being reduced in length, width and height by a combination of weathering, runoff, storm waves and wind. It is anticipated that the promontory will continue to be cut back and eventually be overwashed in places and break up into a series of rock stacks. Breaking waves and wave-generated currents are the major factors shaping the shoreline and determining shoreline processes in the Anglesea embayment. Although the ocean coast is generally subject to ocean swell arriving from the south, Point Roadknight greatly modifies the



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direction of waves approaching Point Roadknight Bay. Waves approaching from the south are refracted in the shallowing water and diffracted around the point to break obliquely along the inner shoreline of Point Roadknight. The oblique angle of wave approach decreases gradually into the bay becoming almost parallel with the shore near the boat ramp. The actual angle of wave approach at any time is determined primarily by the direction of ocean swell and this can vary seasonally. Waves are also influenced by local winds. A very strong easterly wind for instance will increase wave height. Predominant wave height in the lee of Point Roadknight is below 1 metre. The lee of the point acts as a sand trap and a wide, gently sloping beach with a single attached bar persists here with no evidence of rip currents. Taken together, these factors produce the safe swimming beach enjoyed by visitors to Anglesea. The dominant shoreline and nearshore currents in the Anglesea embayment are clockwise, due to the shape of the bay, wave refraction and diffraction patterns and the predominant southerly to westerly winds, However, this current is weak. Although the volume of alongshore sand transport in the bay is small, the short boat access ramp, installed in the early 1960's, interrupts the northward drift of sand and assists in the accumulation and retention of the beach to the south. The beach is narrower north of the ramp and there is erosion of the cliffs immediately north of the ramp where the beach is depleted. Tertiary Sedimentary Beds The rocks that crop out along the coastline north of the boat ramp at Point Roadknight Bay are units of the Demons Bluff Formation. They are gently dipping beds of relatively soft, weathered material and are rich in silt and clay. Although extensively exposed and washed by runoff and storm waves, these beds provide relatively little sediment for beach nourishment due to the predominance of fine-grained (muddy) materials. A number of factors combine to make these coastal slopes predisposed to failure - the gently southerly dips of the strata - the presence of soft, incoherent layers, lubrication of these layers by groundwater - vertical fracture planes - the removal of basal and lateral support by coastal erosion. The large scale, complex movement that occurred in late 1973 at Soapy Rocks, is indicative of the potential for substantial change in this type of geology in an exposed coastal environment. Comparable movements involving both toppling, sliding and rotational failures are observed in several places between Aireys Inlet and Torquay. The proximity of the Great Ocean Road to the edge of the high, very steep cliffs between Soapy Rocks and the Anglesea Surf Lifesaving Club should be cause for concern. Given the geology, rock structure, geomorphology and slope failure histories along this coast, it is to be anticipated that further cliff recession, possibly occasioned by a substantive single slope movement, will occur here. Wave energy and wave heights increase east of Soapy Rocks towards the mouth of the Anglesea River and rip channels develop. This coast is much more exposed to southerly winds than the Point Roadknight area. The beach and backshore sand accumulations are sensitive to these wind and wave conditions and so substantial changes have occurred over the past 50 years, involving both recession and advance of the shoreline. While these changes are in part a function of local conditions, they are in accord with the general trend of shoreline recession noted on a statewide, indeed a nationwide scale. Anglesea River Valley This shallow estuarine lagoon is at times blocked by sand accumulation. Rip channels can develop during times of stronger wave action. The mass of sand at the river mouth is a function not of riverine or deltaic processes but is due largely to sand accumulating in the lee of offshore reefs. Landward of these reefs, wave energy and longshore drift is reduced and sand accumulates. The detailed form of the sand accumulation is determined by the direction of predominant longshore drift. For instance, when this drift is from the west, the river mouth is deflected to the east and the river channel cuts against the east side of the valley.

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