department for environment and water...john welcomed tony braxton‐smith, chief executive,...

Taskforce Opening up our reservoirs

Agenda

Date and time Wednesday 14 November 2018 1:30 – 3:00 pm

Location Level 10, 81 Waymouth Street

Attendees

John Schutz (Chair) – Chief Executive, Department for Environment and Water (DEW)

Roch Cheroux – Chief Executive, SA Water

Sean Sloan – Executive Director, Fisheries and Aquaculture, Department of Primary

Industries and Regions (PIRSA)

Ben Tuffnell – Executive Director, Corporate Affairs, SA Tourism Commission (SATC)

Kylie Taylor – Chief Executive, Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing

Graeme Brown ‐ General Manager Asset Management, Department of Planning, Transport

and Infrastructure (DPTI)

Taskforce support

Justin Holmes – Project Manager, Opening Our Reservoirs, DEW

James Crocker – Senior Manager Wastewater, Environment and Research, SA Water

Jason Irving – Manager, Protected Areas, DEW

Arkellah Irving – Senior Engagement Advisor, DEW

Working Group Chairs

Mike Williams – Regional Director, DEW (Public Access and Engagement Working Group)

Daniel Hoefel – Senior Manager Water Expertise, SA Water (Water Quality Working Group)

John O’Malley – Coordinator Strategic Projects, DEW (Recreation and Infrastructure

Working Group)

Peter Appleford, Executive Director SARDI, PIRSA (Fishing in Reservoirs Working Group)

Joanne Davidson, Research and Policy Manager, SATC (Tourism and Economic

Development Working Group)

Apologies Tony Braxton‐Smith – Chief Executive, DPTI

Item Time Discussion item Paper/ Presentation

Responsible

1 1:30 Acknowledgement of Country and welcome John

We would like to acknowledge this land that we meet on today is the traditional lands for Kaurna

people and that we respect their spiritual relationship with their country. We also acknowledge the Kaurna people

as the custodians of the Adelaide region and that their cultural and heritage beliefs are still as important to the living

Kaurna people today.

2 1:35 Adoption of previous minutes and review of actions

(previous actions provided at the end of this agenda)

Minutes John

3 1:40 Report: South‐east Queensland site visit Paper &

Presentation

Justin

Document released by the Department for Environment and Water under the Freedom of Information Act 1991

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4 1:55 Communications, engagement and media Paper Arkellah

5 2:15 Pathway to opening reservoirs Paper John

6 2:25 Discussion paper: key project elements Paper John

7 2:45 Project Management Paper John

8 2:55 Other business John

3:00 Close

Next meeting – February 2019 (TBC)

Summary of outstanding actions

Action Details Meeting

/ Item

Responsible Status / Due

1 Justin will update terms of reference for the Tourism and Economic

Development Working Group to reference Joanne Davidson as the Chair

3/4 Justin Complete

2 Justin will present a copy of the draft opening plan to the taskforce at its

next meeting for discussion.

3/5 Justin Complete

3 Justin will work with James to plan for the taskforce to visit reservoirs and

gather SA Water drone footage of reservoirs.

1/4 Justin and

James

Complete ‐ footage provided where available


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Taskforce Opening Our Reservoirs

Minutes

Date and

time Wednesday 14 November 2018 1:30 – 3:00 pm

Location Level 10, 81 Waymouth Street

Attendees



Sean Sloan – Executive Director, Fisheries and Aquaculture, Department of Primary

Industries and Regions (PIRSA)

Tony Braxton‐Smith – Chief Executive, Department of Planning, Transport and

Infrastructure

Ben Tuffnell – Executive Director, Corporate Affairs, SA Tourism Commission (SATC)


Taskforce support

Justin Holmes – Project Manager, Opening Our Reservoirs, DEW

James Crocker – Senior Manager Wastewater, Environment and Research, SA Water


Arkellah Irving – Senior Engagement Advisor, DEW

Tara Hage – Senior Manager, Customer and Community Engagement




John O’Malley – Coordinator Strategic Projects, DEW (Recreation and Infrastructure

Working Group)

Joanne Davidson, Research and Policy Manager, SATC (Tourism and Economic

Development Working Group)

Apologies Peter Appleford, Executive Director SARDI, PIRSA (Fishing in Reservoirs Working Group)

1. Acknowledgement of Country and welcome

John welcomed and introduced the Taskforce and provided an acknowledgement of Country.

We would like to acknowledge this land that we meet on today is the traditional lands

for Kaurna people and that we respect their spiritual relationship with their country.

We also acknowledge the Kaurna people as the custodians of the Adelaide region

and that their cultural and heritage beliefs are still as important to the living Kaurna

people today.

John welcomed Tony Braxton‐Smith, Chief Executive, Department of Planning, Transport and

Infrastructure, and Kylie Taylor, Chief Executive, Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing, to their

first meeting of the taskforce.


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2. Adoption of previous minutes review of actions

Minutes of the previous meeting were adopted without amendment.

Review of actions

Action Details Meeting /

Item

Responsible Status /

Due

1 Justin will update terms of reference for the Tourism and Economic

Development Working Group to reference Joanne Davidson as the Chair

3/4 Justin Complete

2 Justin will present a copy of the draft opening plan to the taskforce at its

next meeting for discussion.

3/5 Justin Complete

3 Justin will work with James to plan for the taskforce to visit reservoirs

and gather SA Water drone footage of reservoirs.

1/4 Justin and

James

Complete ‐

footage

provided

where

available

3. Report: South‐east Queensland site visit

Introducing the meeting paper, Justin noted that taskforce support staff travelled to Queensland

to learn from two organisations that manage recreation on reservoirs, SEQ Water and SunWater.

In addition to the paper, James presented a series of photos that demonstrated the standard of

infrastructure and recreational experiences provided on Queensland’s reservoirs.

The taskforce noted the overview of the group’s key learnings and recommended that staff

maintain a connection with their Queensland colleagues to support and inform the opening of

reservoirs in South Australia.

Recommendations from meeting paper

3.1 Note this report and key learnings from recreation on reservoirs in Queensland.

Noted – noting that staff will maintain a connection with their SEQ Water colleagues to

support and inform the opening of reservoirs in South Australia.

4. Communications, engagement and media

John noted that with evolution of the project, consideration has been given to the project’s

engagement strategy and delivery. SA Water will now lead the communication and engagement

component of the project, under the direction of the taskforce. This adjustment recognises SA

Water’s existing relationship with stakeholders and provides for engagement continuity after

reservoirs are opened.

ACTION: SA Water will confirm who will lead communication and engagement to allow for the

project governance framework to be updated.

Arkellah provided a summary of the Draft Communications, Engagement and Media Plan and

Discussion paper on Reservoir Engagement Opportunities tabled with the meeting paper, noting


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that they were prepared in collaboration with SA Water. The taskforce noted the draft plan and

recommended that it be updated to reflect the altered governance arrangements, in addition to:

Key DPTI stakeholders and DPTI’s role in roads, transport and marine safety.

Key PIRSA stakeholders and PIRSA’s role in fisheries management.

Key stakeholders from the Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing.

ACTION: The draft Communications, Engagement and Media Plan will be updated to reflect

altered governance arrangements and relevant stakeholders from all agencies

represented on the taskforce.

The taskforce gave general consideration to the engagement strategy required to support the

opening of reservoirs, including delivery of a paid media campaign. The taskforce approved the

commencement of engagement to support the opening of the first reservoir, subject to the

appropriate approvals.

Roch noted the positive steps that have been taken in preparation for the opening of Myponga

and South Para Reservoirs and recommend that stage one of the first reservoir’s opening be

brought forward Easter (19 April) 2019. This was approved by the taskforce.

ACTION: Commence engagement actions that allow for the opening of Myponga to begin by

Easter (19 April) 2019 ensuring appropriate approvals are sought as necessary, with

opening of the other South Para and Warren to follow.


4.1 Note the draft Communications, Engagement and Media Plan (Attachment 1 to the meeting

paper) and a Discussion paper on Reservoir Engagement Opportunities (Attachment 2 to

the meeting paper), which will be used to support a conversation with the Minister on

Reservoir Engagement.

Noted – noting that the plan will be updated to reflect altered governance arrangements

relevant stakeholders from all agencies represented on the taskforce.

4.2 Endorse commencing engagement on the project to support the opening of first reservoirs

by Easter (19 April) 2019, with timing to commence engagement to be discussed with the

Minister.

Approved – noting that approval will be sought for engagement actions that will support the

opening of reservoirs.

5. Pathway to opening reservoirs

Justin provided a brief overview of the pathway to opening reservoirs tabled with the meeting

paper, noting that:

a. The timeline for opening the first reservoir will be changed to Easter 2019 to reflect the

taskforce’s earlier decision.

b. The engagement process will be altered to reflect approved engagement actions.

The taskforce noted the draft opening concept plans for Myponga, South Para and Warren

reservoirs, with detailed advice from each working group that supported development of the

plans. It was also noted that the development of final opening plans was subject to the

engagement process adopted to support the opening of these reservoirs.


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The taskforce noted that advice from working groups did not included costs associated with vehicle

access into reservoirs via roads. Tony noted that he will seek this advice from DPTI and provide it

to the taskforce through the Recreation and Infrastructure Working Group.

ACTION: The Recreation and Infrastructure Working Group will update the costs associated with

opening Myponga, South Para and Warren Reservoirs to include costs associated with

vehicles accessing reservoirs via roads.

The taskforce approved recommendations that funding be provided to the Recreation and

Infrastructure Working Group and Water Quality Working Group to support the delivery of their

implementation plans.

Sean recommended that funding also be allocated to the Fishing in Reservoirs Working Group to

support the stocking of fish in South Para Reservoir in early 2019. The taskforce recommended

that the Fishing in Reservoirs Working Group prepare a paper to support the recommendation that

will be considered by the taskforce out of session.

ACTION: The Fishing in Reservoirs Working Group will prepare a paper to request a funding

allocation for stocking of fish in South Para Reservoir in early 2019 that will be

considered by the taskforce out of session.


5.1 Note the revised Pathway to Opening Reservoirs in Attachment 1 of the meeting paper.

Noted – noting that the document will be updated to reflect the revised timeline for opening

reservoirs and final engagement process to support the opening of reservoirs.

5.2 Note the draft opening concept plans for Myponga, South Para and Warren reservoirs in

Attachments 2 and 3 of the meeting paper, noting:

a. Further amendment to these plans will likely be necessary subject to the

engagement process (see agenda item 4); and

b. Final draft opening plans will be presented to the taskforce for endorsement prior

to being forwarded to the Minister for approval.

Noted

5.3 Note advice from taskforce working groups in Attachments 4‐6 of the meeting paper that

has informed the development of draft opening plans for Myponga, South Para and Warren

reservoirs.

Noted

5.4 Approve the following funding allocations to support the continued delivery of working group implementation plans.

a. An allocation of to the Recreation and Infrastructure

Working Group to begin the recreational infrastructure feasibility and concept

phase for Myponga, South Para and Warren reservoirs.

b. An allocation of to the Water Quality

Working Group to complete detailed risk assessments required to inform selected

recreation activities at Myponga, South Para and Barossa reservoirs.

Approved


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7 - Documents affecting business affairs


6. Discussion paper: key project elements

Justin provided a brief overview of the key elements of the project outlined in the meeting paper.

The taskforce resolved to focus its next meeting in early 2019 on prioritising the development of

opening plans for additional reservoirs and the allocation of project funding. Each of the working

groups are asked to prepare advice to support the next taskforce meeting. Specifically, the Water

Quality Working Group is asked to complete recreation risk assessments for each reservoir,

modelled on those completed for Myponga, South Para and Warren Reservoirs.

ACTION: Each working group will prepare advice to support the taskforce prioritise the

development of opening plans for additional reservoirs and the allocation of project

funding. Specifically, the Water Quality Working Group is asked to complete recreation

risk assessments for each reservoir, modelled on those completed for Myponga, South

Para and Warren Reservoirs.

To support the project, the taskforce resolved to seek modelling that captures the economic

benefit that opening up reservoirs will provide for the State. John will investigate the opportunity

for this economic modelling to be provided by the Department of Treasury and Finance.

ACTION: John will contact David Reynolds, Chief Executive Department of Treasury and Finance,

about the opportunity for DTF to undertake modelling that captures the economic

benefits of opening reservoirs.


6.1 Consider key elements of the project outlined in this discussion paper and provide

recommendations for progressing this work.

Noted

7. Project management

Revised terms of reference for the Water Quality Working Group and Public Access and

Engagement Working Group were approved by the taskforce. The Fishing in Reservoirs Working

Group Implementation Plan was also approved.

In recognition of the Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing joining the project, Kylie was invited

to consider representatives from her Office to participate in the taskforce working groups.

ACTION: Justin will forward Kylie a copy of the terms of reference for each of the taskforce

working group to enable the Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing to nominate

members for the working groups as appropriate. The working group terms of reference

will be updated to reflect membership of the Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing.

The taskforce acknowledged progress that had been made toward opening the first reservoir in

early 2019 and that the project plan will be updated to reflect progress, and the project’s next

phase of delivery.


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1 - Cabinet Document


7.1 Approve the revised Water Quality Working Group Terms of Reference in Attachment 1 of

the meeting paper.

Approved

7.2 Approve amendments to the Terms of Reference for the Public Access and Engagement

Working Group to allow for a representative from SA Police to join the group. A copy of the

revised Terms of Reference is in Attachment 2 of the meeting paper.

Approved

7.3 Approve the Fishing in Reservoirs Working Group Implementation Plan in Attachment 3 of

the meeting paper.

Approved

7.4 Note the review and development of an updated project plan by Justin Holmes and the

Public Access and Engagement Working Group.

Noted

8. Other business

The role of the taskforce is to coordinate and provide advice to the Minister for Environment and

Water in relation to the Government’s commitment to open reservoirs. This includes planning for

recreational activities that will occur on each reservoir, work that is being led by the Recreation

and Infrastructure Working Group.

John and Roch reaffirmed that SA Water is responsible for the ongoing management of reservoirs,

including the management of land, assets and activities that occur on the land. In this context,

once planning has been completed and approved, the construction of assets to support recreation

will be delivered by SA Water. Following delivery of the Government’s commitment, SA Water will

be responsible for the ongoing management of recreation on reservoirs.

Next meeting

Next meeting – early 2019

Purpose of next meeting:

Prioritising the development of opening plans for additional reservoirs and the allocation of

funding


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/ Item


Due

1 SA Water will confirm who will lead communication and engagement to

allow for the project governance framework to be updated.

4/4 James 30 Nov 18

2 The draft Communications, Engagement and Media Plan will be updated

to reflect altered governance arrangements and relevant stakeholders

from all agencies represented on the taskforce.

4/4 SA Water 21 Dec 18

3 Commence engagement actions that allow for the opening of Myponga to

begin by Easter 2019 ensuring appropriate approvals are sought as

necessary, with opening of the other South Para and Warren to follow.

4/4 SA Water 21 Dec 18

4 The Recreation and Infrastructure Working Group will update the costs

associated with opening Myponga, South Para and Warren Reservoirs to

include costs associated with vehicles accessing reservoirs via roads.

4/5 John

O’Malley

31 Jan 19

5 The Fishing in Reservoirs Working Group will prepare a paper to request a

funding allocation for stocking of fish in South Para Reservoir in early 2019

that will be considered by the taskforce out of session.

4/5 Peter

Appleford

21 Dec 18

6 Each working group will prepare advice to support the taskforce prioritise

the development of opening plans for additional reservoirs and the

allocation of project funding. Specifically, the Water Quality Working

Group is asked to complete recreation risk assessments for each reservoir,

modelled on those completed for Myponga, South Para and Warren

Reservoirs.

4/6 Each

working

group Chair

31 Jan 19

7 John will contact David Reynolds, Chief Executive Department of Treasury

and Finance, about the opportunity for DTF to undertake modelling that

captures the economic benefits of opening reservoirs.

4/6 John Schutz 21 Dec 18

8 Justin will forward Kylie a copy of the terms of reference for each of the

taskforce working group to enable the Office for Recreation, Sport and

Racing to nominate members for the working groups as appropriate. The

working group terms of reference will be updated to reflect membership

of the Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing.

4/7 Justin 30 Nov 18


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Contact: Justin Holmes, Project Manager, Opening Reservoirs, DEW on 0467 798 979 or [email protected]


Meeting Paper Meeting Date: 14 November 2018

Agenda Item 3 – Report: South‐East Queensland Site Visit

RECOMMENDATIONS

That the Taskforce:

1. Note this report and key learnings from recreation on reservoirs in Queensland.

BACKGROUND

In late September, the following taskforce support staff visited south‐east Queensland and

met with representatives from SunWater and SEQ Water regarding the management of

recreation on reservoirs in Queensland.

Justin Holmes, Project Manager, Opening Reservoirs, DEW

Mike Williams, Regional Director, DEW

Arkellah Irving, Senior Engagement Advisor, DEW

James Crocker, Senior Manager Wastewater, Environment and Research, SA Water

Tara Hage, Senior Manager Customer and Community Engagement, SA Water

Joshua Zugajev, Senior Manager Media Relations, SA Water

This report provides a summary of key learnings from the visit that apply to the opening of

reservoirs in South Australia.

DISCUSSION

Getting the engagement fundamentals right

Experience from Queensland demonstrated that recreational access to reservoirs is high‐

profile with highly invested stakeholders sharing a range of views. Also demonstrated was a

robust engagement framework based on solid fundamentals. This included:

Establishing guiding principles in consultation with the community that guide the

management of recreation on reservoirs.

Setting clear and realistic expectations prior to beginning an engagement process. This

included clear definitions of what recreational activities are, or are not appropriate at

a reservoir (including the definition of paddle craft, motorised and non‐motorised

activities, and preparing for new technologies and innovations in recreation).

Being clear on what people can influence and what they can’t.


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5 - Documents affecting inter-governmental and local government relations, 7 - Documents affecting business affairs

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Linking engagement with education to build awareness and understanding of

recreating safely on reservoirs.

Another observation from SEQ Water was the use of insights to shape the engagement work

(and planning) with local communities. For example, knowledge of the demographics, habits

and preferences that provide an indicator of activities that the local community would be

interested in. This was important to shape key messages for local communities.

Establishing guiding principles in consultation with the community

Recreation on reservoirs in south‐east Queensland was historically permitted under the

management of multiple local water authorities. In recent years, SEQ Water was formed

through an amalgamation of those local water authorities.

In South Australia, planning for the opening of reservoirs has been based on broad principles

gleaned from the Government’s election commitment policy document. This includes; no

compromise to drinking water safety, promoting tourism and economic development, and

maintaining conservation values on each reservoir.

Experience from Queensland has demonstrated the benefits that comes from working with

the community to develop and refine a set of guiding principles for recreation on reservoirs

that enables the development of a logical management framework that has community and

stakeholder support.

Ongoing management of recreation

SEQ Water has a legislated obligation to provide for recreation on their reservoirs through

the South East Queensland Water (Restructuring) Act 2007. The organisation also has a set an

outcome to provide access for a diversity of recreation opportunities on their land and water

storages without compromising their ability to provide safe, secure and cost‐effective water

and catchment services.

To achieve this SEQ Water make a significant ongoing investment to support the ongoing

management of recreation on reservoirs each year.


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7 - Documents affecting business affairs, 5 - Documents affecting inter-governmental and local government relations



The terms of reference for this taskforce includes the identification of suitable recreation

activities, including infrastructure requirements to support those activities on neighbouring

public land.

High visitation and people value the resource


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SEQ Water manages recreation at approximately 20 locations, with over 3 million visitors per

year. Visitors have a positive connection with SEQ Water which attributes a certain amount

of value to reservoir locations and the ability for public to access them.

Risk management

Tourism and economic development

There are multiple examples across south‐east Queensland of recreational access to

reservoirs supporting business. This includes commercial business (including gear hire ‐

canoes, mountain bikes) and tour operators. There are also multiple areas on reservoir land

that is leased/licenced to commercial or not‐for‐profit organisations.

Justin Holmes Project Manager, Opening Our Reservoirs Department for Environment and Water


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Contact: Arkellah Irving Senior Engagement Advisor, DEW [email protected]



Agenda Item 4: Progress with community and stakeholder engagement

RECOMMENDATIONS

That the Taskforce:

1. Note the draft Communications, Engagement and Media Plan (Attachment 1) and a

Discussion paper on Reservoir Engagement Opportunities (Attachment 2), which will be used

to support a conversation with the Minister on Reservoir Engagement.

2. Endorse commencing engagement on the project to support the opening of first reservoirs

by June 2019, with timing to commence engagement to be discussed with the Minister.

BACKGROUND

A draft Communications, Engagement and Media Plan has been developed to support the opening of

first reservoirs by 2019. The plan outlines a scalable strategy to support the public communication and

engagement campaign for the opening of reservoirs. The plan has been written in collaboration with

SA Water. See Attachment 1.

The plan sets out the benefits of the proposed engagement, which will build and confirm a shared position on which all recreational access decisions will be made during planning, implementation and ongoing management phases. The plan sets out a considered and joined‐up communications and engagement approach which will support the management of community expectations while concurrently building awareness and generating excitement about the opening of reservoirs. The plan is intended to support the delivery of opening the first reservoirs by June‐2019, including the development of communications documents such as open plans, concepts plans or similar.

The plan seeks to align with and complement the various project delivery components across the

working groups and beyond and to support the overall project coordination.

To enable the preparation of the final plan, a discussion paper has been prepared to support a conversation with the Minister for Environment and Water on the Reservoirs Engagement Strategy. Direction from the Minister will be sought to confirm strategies on how the community will be engaged prior to, during and after individual reservoirs are opened. The discussion paper is provided in Attachment 2 for consideration by the taskforce.

DISCUSSION

Draft Communications, Engagement and Media Plan

Managing the expectations of the public and stakeholders is a critical part of ensuring project success.

This is particularly significant in relation to managing community expectations of the project scope

and budget and the ambition to open up reservoirs across the state, supported by potential visitor

management infrastructure.


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The draft plan proposes several channels for communications, engagement and media, including

social media and advertising that will proactively support the opening of reservoirs. The plan proposes

to engage people early to raise awareness and inform the public about the opportunities and benefits

that will realised as well as how risks will be managed.

The draft plan has integrated a clear communications strategy, a meaningful suite of engagement

opportunities and a proactive media and advertising strategy. It captures the business needs of both

DEW and SA Water, outlines leads and responsible staff to manage the variety of issues and

opportunities and reflects recent learnings from a SE Queensland Water tour.

The early communication and engagement activities are geared towards gaining insights on key values

and community interest in recreational opportunities in the opening of reservoir sites. The plan

outlines that early engagement will also help to tease out and manage any concerns or issues before

funding is expended and will contribute to shaping future reservoir recreation and access.

The plan also proposes to engage the community and key stakeholders on developing a set of guiding

principles. Developing a set of principles will build and confirm a shared position on which all

recreational access decisions will be made during planning, implementation and ongoing management

phases.

The development of principles will form an important part of the engagement strategy, as it will be

the main vehicle for managing public expectations. The process of developing principles will seek to

secure community support in the immediate and long term. The principles will be a small set of

succinct statements that outline key principles for decision making, to ensure recreational access is

planned, implemented and managed in a sustainable manner and help achieve support for their use

as an ongoing decision making and management tool.

After the development of the principles, the focus of the project and its supporting communications,

engagement and media plan will move to support the development and implementation of site‐

specific opening and activation plans in support of the implementation phase of the project, expected

to commence in mid‐2019.

Discussion paper A discussion paper ‘Reservoir Engagement Opportunities’ has been prepared to invite discussion on

benefits, risks and opportunities for engagement in the opening of reservoirs, see Attachment 2. This

paper is intended for discussion at this taskforce and to be used to support a conversation with the

Minister on the project’s engagement. On completion of discussion and feedback gathered from

leaders the draft Communications, Engagement and Media Plan will be finalised and an accompanied

advertising campaign be presented to achieve the plans media outreach outcomes.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Draft Reservoirs Communications, Engagement and Media Plan.

2. Discussion paper on Reservoirs Engagement Opportunities.


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John Schutz Chief Executive Department for Environment and Water


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Opening up our reservoirs for

recreational use and enjoyment


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Opening Up Our Reservoirs – Communications, engagement and media plan DEW and SA Water 2018

Page 2

Contents

Introduction ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 3

Strategic approach ................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 3

Integrated approach ............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 6

Traditional Owners ................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 7

Governance ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 8

Roles and responsibilities ................................................................................................................................................................................................... 9

Cross-government subject leads ................................................................................................................................................................................. 10

Research and customer insights .................................................................................................................................................................................. 10

Risk analysis ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 12

Stakeholder analysis ........................................................................................................................................................................................................... 13

Integrated Communication, Engagement and Media Tools and Tactics ............................................................................................... 18

Collaborative delivery of communications, engagement and media ...................................................................................................... 19

Media –proactive and reactive ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 19

Advertising campaign ....................................................................................................................................................................................................... 20

Digital communication platforms (website, intranet, social media) .......................................................................................................... 21

Engagement material approval process .................................................................................................................................................................. 22

Key messages ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 24

Communication and Engagement Phases ............................................................................................................................................................. 25


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Page 3

Introduction

The South Australian government has committed $5 million to opening up reservoirs across South Australia for recreational use and enjoyment. This is an exciting and once in a lifetime opportunity. The state government is leading on the delivery of this initiative and will carefully explore the states reservoirs for appropriate public access, wellbeing and creation of green space. Opening up reservoirs is an exciting opportunity to realise a range of benefits with people able to enjoy the outdoors, connect to nature and improve health and well-being in new ways in new places. It will also enable local and regional benefits by invigorating communities by stimulating new nature-based tourism and economic opportunities attracting visitors both locally and across the state.

Opening up our reservoirs to the public signals a generational change in the management of our state’s reservoirs. Reservoir sites are being investigated across the state, including in the Mount Lofty Ranges, the State’s mid-north, on the Eyre Peninsula, and on Kangaroo Island. This project includes the Happy Valley Reservoir, which forms part of the proposed Glenthorne National Park.

Public access to reservoirs will provide for a range of recreational opportunities such as walking trails, canoeing and, fishing and on water activities as well as connecting reservoir land with nearby public land. The project will be staged enabling people to access some of South Australia’s amazing natural places while concurrently managing the complexity of supplying safe clean drinking water, community expectations and achieving the project outcomes.

This communication, engagement and media plan applies to the planning and initial implementation phases of this initiative, to 2022 and will include reservoirs across the State. The plan be reviewed regularly, at least on a 6 monthly basis and continue to evolve as the project progresses.

Early recreational activity access to a number of reservoirs is expected mid-2019.

Strategic approach

Build excitement about the opening of reservoirs

This plan will guide how communications, engagement and media will be used to build support, excitement and interest in the opportunity presented by opening our reservoirs. The communications tactics will reflect the staged nature of the project.

Manage expectations

Information will be provided to the community and stakeholders based on the agreed key messages and new messages as the project evolves. Clear and concise parameters on what is allowed and not allowed is imperative for proper community engagement and management of expectations on what the project can deliver.

Raise awareness

Opportunities to recreate, the natural beauty of many reservoirs, the process and timing of opening reservoirs and how any concerns or challenges will be managed such as continued provision of safe drinking water are the focus of public awareness raising. Several communications and engagement tactics will be used to raise awareness and share key messages. This includes a media relations strategy, utilizing existing resources, and a paid media campaign which will ensure appropriate pubic reach.


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Page 4

Encourage participation

Consultation with the communities and key stakeholders will ensure they have the opportunity to input to the project and have been heard. This will assist with understanding and addressing the range of perceptions, attitudes and issues that will be held by the community. A key tactic will be to engage the community in the development of a series of principles to guide decisions around opening reservoirs in a fair and transparent way to underpin community values for these spaces. As the project develops consultation with local communities in relation to specific sites will be a focus through a range of targeted tactics. Lack of consultation can be costly and impact project delivery and timing.

Implement initial strategic priorities for engagement

To support the planning and implementation of this initiative and ensure that the outcomes of the project are successful, a series of initial priorities for the communications and engagement plan have been identified. These priorities underpin the communication and engagement phases outlined on page 25.

1. Establishing community supported ‘guiding principles for collaboration’ The initial focus of the communication and engagement approach is to bring community and stakeholders into the process through an agreed way in which we will collaborate and make decisions about recreational use through the development of a set of guiding principles.

Developing guiding principles alongside community is a powerful way to create a culture of ‘working together’ and developing a shared understanding on how decisions will get made. In the short term it provides us with a platform to have a discussion and in the long term ensures that as new recreational activities are presented we can apply the same decision making principles with a fair and transparent approach.

The guiding principles will be used as a tool to provide a coordinated, strategic and transparent approach that should shape and guide decisions on recreational access and associated planning and implementation, including what activities are appropriate and why. Through this consultation process the community will have the opportunity to have an early say in the project and provide their thoughts on the types of recreational experiences, activities and opportunities they would like to see. This also ensures a robust and well-informed process is used to determine where funds are spent and what activities are allowed, enabling sentiment and location specific insights that provide a point of consistent reference into the future

Developing these principles is a key learning gathered from South East Queensland Water colleagues who have successfully managed reservoirs for recreational use for more than 10 years. As a key initial outcome of the engagement process it will provide transparency around the process and assist with managing expectations from people both in the short and long term.

1. Understanding community values and aspirations using market research To support the broader planning and implementation of this project developing an understanding of community values, and the types of recreational experiences, activities and opportunities they would like to see at each site will be important. A market research activity as part of the initial engagement process will ensure robust and statistically representative outcomes are informing the guiding principles and community aspirations. The outcomes of this work will also assist in creating and targeting communication material for particular segments of the community / users for most impact.

Engaging early to inform decisions


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Local communities and stakeholders will be engaged to share their ideas and what is important to them through various stages in the project.

Early engagement will help to manage community expectation, will help inform the planning and reservoir opening processes and help manage media messaging.

As the project evolves various engagement tactics will be explored to ensure the project remains relevant and agile to changing needs and community expectations. Keeping people engaged in the project will enable opportunities to be identified that will achieve broader project outcomes and potentially enabling infrastructure and access beyond the project budget as well as future sustainability of recreational activity at reservoirs.

Early engagement to help inform open plans and infrastructure planning will include:

Basic webpage for comments – A basic DEW webpage has been created as a holding pattern until a dedicated webpage can be created that integrates branding across DEW and SA Water. This is an important tactic to ensure the public can access some basic information, show their support and share their concerns and leave a comment.

Direct mail – Letters will be sent to key interest/ stakeholder groups and once the first reservoirs to be opened have been decided to adjacent owners providing them an overview of the project, where to go for further information and direct contact details for a stakeholder engagement representatives. This will align with the media announcements and other social media channels.

Recreational use and values survey – Release and promote a recreational use survey to gather information from potential future users on what they would want to use their local or another reservoir for. Use postcode data collection to gauge interest and future use. This will help inform open plans and recreational use planning but help inform decisions about investment in infrastructure.

Briefing sessions - Briefing sessions will be held with Councils, recreation groups/peak bodies, industry associations and key community groups to outline the project once the taskforce approves to engage. These sessions will also provide the opportunity for questions to be asked and feedback to be provided. Key interest areas will be confirmed and the method for future communication and engagement on the project will be established.

Face to face meetings - Face to face meetings will be held with key interest groups and key stakeholders to identify specific issues and gain feedback directly to ensure early issues and risk are identified. Face to face meetings will also be held with and property owners/residents as requested to talk through and address specific issues once a plan for reservoir opening has been approved by the taskforce.

Listening posts/ community information sessions/ open days – will be held so the community can learn more about the project, to raise awareness and for specific sites ask questions and provide feedback. These sessions will be advertised through the local media outlets and through DEW/SA Water media channels (website, Facebook etc.).

Development and use of clear communications

While some communications tools can be used across the whole project duration and across all reservoirs, some tools will need to be specifically designed for specific reservoir opening needs. In such a circumstance, a mini-plan will be developed. Communications tools will likely include:

FAQ’s


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Factsheets Newsletters Briefings Website, written correspondence Information sessions Workshops Online engagement Results reporting, online surveys Media

Future engagement opportunities

Once the first round of announcements have been made and the first reservoirs opened the focus for engagement will become more targeted to reach specific outcomes of achieving the whole project and not just the opening of one reservoir. These tactics may include:

Dedicated webpage – a specific ‘Opening our Reservoirs’ website will be developed as a central source of information support the communications and engagement activities. This will support the Advertising campaign and will provide a non-branded or co-branded webpage (DEW and SA Water) that features a suite of information about reservoirs, timing of openings, opportunities for involvement and other important announcements.

Vision sessions – engage stakeholders in strategic vision sessions for selected reservoirs to help shape the future recreational use and access across reservoir sites. Would involve other working group experts including tourism and infrastructure.

Walk/ Ride Your Reservoir – invite Walking SA, Horse SA or Cycling SA or similar group to conduct a ‘walk/ ride your reservoir’ event as reservoirs become open. Can engage local Friends of groups, conservation groups involved in tree planting at reservoirs etc. to share info on revegetation efforts to date and the importance of managing conservation at sites.

My Reservoir voting – Participatory budgeting type activity where a suite of infrastructure ideas are proposed at a reservoir and people can vote on which idea they support. Results from the survey can be used to inform the options presented. Would be a low cost suite of options (i.e. options for $5-$10K). Can link to existing SA Water MOU arrangement with schools.

Integrated approach

This plan outlines our integrated approach to communication, engagement and media activities to support the opening reservoirs for recreational use.

This project has high visibility and priority across government. An integrated and proactive approach to communication, engagement and media activities will best position the initiative for success and ensure that there strong alignment between the delivery stages of the project and the communications and engagement elements.

This will be achieved through:

Direct community and stakeholder engagement. Reactive engagement based on issues arising. Proactive and responsive media engagement.


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Digital communications including proactive and responsive social media management. Internal communications and engagement with SA Water and DEW staff. Dedicated website for people to access information about the project. Paid advertising (functional, public notices and geo-targeted social media).

A considered communications and engagement planning approach will manage community expectations while concurrently generating excitement about each reservoir’s opening. It will support seamless collaboration between DEW and SA Water supported by coordination across all working groups to ensure public and cross-government messaging is aligned and mutually reinforcing.

The approach is based on the following principles:

Informing community about expert‐led decisions

The primary purpose of this initiative is to enable people to visit, use and enjoy these spaces. Public support, demonstrated by robust visitor numbers, for opening reservoirs is an important project outcome, likewise maintaining public confidence in drinking water security and safety is paramount.

For this reason that several project decisions need to be made by experts. This includes which reservoirs will open and when and the specific recreational activities enabled. Other expert-led decisions relate to fish stocking, approval processes, environmental management, cultural heritage protection and infrastructure needs.

These experts provide project advice through working groups that report to the taskforce and will advise on the elements of the project that need to be considered for safe opening of reservoirs and potential future management. Expert led decision making will feature in engagement messaging

It is intended that communities ‘local people at reservoirs’ and stakeholders ‘people who have an interest in the outcome of the project’ will have opportunities to:

Be informed at every significant step of the project through: digital, face-to-face and public opportunities such as open days.

Be given the opportunity to express their concerns, ideas and support through a dedicated web page. Be granted early opportunity to partner, where appropriate with reservoir land managers on: branding,

strategic planning, tourism development, and conservation and reconciliation outcomes.

Involving community in decision‐making and activities where possible

There will be a range of opportunities and concerns to the community in planning and progressing the opening of reservoir sites. These include topics around how they can use and recreate at their local reservoir, ensuring drinking water remains safe to drink, environmental protection and management, broader benefits and opportunities for the community (types of uses) and localised interest around issues that affect affect people’s lives (changes in use, property values, increased traffic, parking and so on).

A key principle of the stakeholder communication and engagement approach will be to better understand the breath of perceptions, attitudes and issues that being felt then working with the community to address them.

Traditional Owners

DEW and SA Water work across the State with Aboriginal South Australians to conserve and sustain Country. Through this work we seek to improve the relationship between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Australians and build respect


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based on mutual understanding and acceptance of each other. We respect the cultural and spiritual relationship that Aboriginal People have with land and water and its importance to cultural vitality and resilience.

Recognising our shared history and valuing the knowledge, experience and contribution of the world’s oldest living culture is important when meeting future challenges.

Recognising places of special cultural importance across reservoir sites is a critical part of understanding each sites values and attributes as well as recognising cultural heritage risks. Engaging Traditional Owners in the opening of reservoirs can additionally support the development of Aboriginal knowledge and awareness, support the contribution to the process of Reconciliation for all involved and improve the way they engage with Aboriginal people both personally and professionally.

Cultural heritage assessments, employment and wellbeing opportunities may be explored at reservoirs where appropriate and to manage potential risk. Early identification of significant sites, aspirations for involvement, and early identification of cultural issues will be adopted as part of this plan. Where appropriate, cultural information gathered could be used on signage and information sheets.

Governance

The opening reservoirs project is governed through a Taskforce that reports to, and provides advice to the Minister for Environment and Water. The Taskforce consists of the Chief Executive DEW (Chair), the Chief Executive, SA Water and executive staff from the Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure, the Department of Primary Industries and Regions and the South Australian Tourism Commission. The two coordinating components within the governance model are the Project Implementation and Coordination team and the Communications and Engagement leads across both DEW and SA Water.

Opening up our reservoirs requires significant cross-agency collaboration and expert advice across several project elements. Working groups have been convened to provide advice on:

Public access and engagement. Recreation opportunities and infrastructure requirements. Water quality and the ongoing security of our drinking water. Fishing in reservoirs. Tourism and Economic Development.

Project coordination across the five working groups and taskforce is being managed by the Project Coordinator, DEW. Coordination of communications, engagement and media is being led by DEW and managed across DEW and SA Water teams.

Support internal engagement

Transparent and ongoing coordination of communications is a vital part of this cross-government project. Clarity and consistency across messaging to staff impacted or involved such as SA Water operations staff and DEW Regional and District staff throughout any changes in reservoir use as well as when communities will be contacted will assist in ensuring consistent appropriate messaging and support positive broader engagement. As the public begin to engage more in the opening of reservoirs clear and concise scripting for call centers or contact points is critical.


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Roles and responsibilities

Successful communication and engagement for this project will require co-ordination and collaboration across the departments that are part of the delivery of the initiative to ensure a consistent approach. This will also be reinforced by clear responsibilities for different elements.

DEW responsibilities

DEW is the lead agency for delivering this project. A project coordinator ensures alignment across all of the project elements. DEW is also the primary point for leading and facilitating the communication and engagement plan and for directing requests/enquires to departments nominated as subject matter/relationship leads for particular matters (refer to Table 1).

In relation to this plan DEW is responsible for:

Developing and implementing the Communications, Engagement and Media Plan. Reporting and presenting to the Taskforce on communications, engagement and media activities and

outcomes and issues Overall oversight and management of messaging and information release. Facilitating approval of materials, media releases and engagement activities through the Working

Groups and the taskforce. Development and distribution of communication materials and visuals to be released to the community. Facilitation and coordination of events, information sessions, briefings and community engagement

activities. Oversight of paid campaign ensuring consistency with plan. Tracking, evaluating and updating the plan as appropriate.

SA Water responsibilities

SA Water is the land owner and manager of reservoir assets.

SA Water is responsible for:

Support the development and implementation of the Communications, Engagement and Media Plan. Deliver messaging and information release in line with the plan. Support DEW in public community engagement events information sessions, briefings and community

activities. Lead message development and responses on nominated topics as per subject matter/relationship. Support the development and distribution of communication materials and visuals to be released to the

community. Direct community or other enquires to DEW where SA Water not nominated lead. Provide insights to support the stakeholder analysis based existing research, customer and stakeholder

understanding.

SA Tourism / DPTI / SA Health / PIRSA

As members of the Working Groups, are responsible for:

Contributing to key message development as appropriate. Deliver messaging and information release in line with plan. Distribution of communication material as required. Support for events, information sessions, briefing and other engagement activities where required.


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Direct enquires to DEW.

Cross-government subject leads

A range of subjects of importance to the community will be raised during the planning and delivery of this project. These will need to be addressed in a collaborative, consistent and coordinated way. To facilitate this, lead and support agencies have been identified for key subjects (see Table 1. below). Lead agencies are responsible for developing and authorising key messages, preparing draft responses and addressing enquires in relation to their subject areas, with nominated support agencies responsible for consistent use of these messages.

DEW the lead agency for the communications and engagement is responsible for oversight and co-ordination of messaging, enquiries and responses.

Subject Lead Support Project governance, timing and responsibilities DEW SA Water Engagement approach / community involvement DEW (unless topic specific) SA Water Project benefits (why open, economic development, tourism, business opportunities etc.)

DEW Based on issue – SATC, SA Water

Water quality and water security SA Water SA Health / DEW Wellness/ health benefits / exercise DoH DEW/ SA Water Site security and personal safety issues SA Water DEW / SAPOL Types of activities DEW SA Water Tourism opportunities SATC DEW Cost of initiative and budget DEW SA Water Impacts on relationships water pricing, customer bills etc SA Water Future management arrangements TBC TBC Existing land management arrangement’s SA Water DEW

Management of existing and ongoing stakeholder (relating to site specific issues) neighbours, existing site MOUs, contracts etc

SA Water DEW

Aboriginal / Cultural heritage management of at sites SA Water DEW Environment protection and management (existing site conditions, flora and fauna, threatened species etc)

SA Water

Localised interest around issues that affect directly people’s lives (changes in use, property values, increased traffic, noise, security, and amenity and so on).

SA Water DEW

Emergency services reach e.g. bush fire, extreme weather, dangerous substances/access to MHF

SAFECOM / SAPOL – SA Water

Table 1. Subject leads.

Research and customer insights

Pre‐project announcement – SA Water data


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Every four years, SA Water is required to submit a plan, outlining how it will operate and deliver its services to the economic regulator, the Essential Services Commission of South Australia (ESCOSA). To help shape its business plan for this period SA Water actively seeks feedback from customers, the community and stakeholders.

Recreational use of reservoirs was included as part of SA Water’s recent engagement program including testing customer sentiment towards the idea and as service level tested during the ‘What matter’s to you” survey which ran from April to June 2018. Opportunities for customers to provide qualitative feedback directly to SA Water where also provided during the period the survey was open.

The initial testing of sentiment was high level only with participants asked if they would like to see reservoirs and water catchments currently used for supplying drinking water open to the public for recreational use. Initial responses to the question were mixed, with the proportion for or against varying between workshops and between metropolitan and were regional areas. Generally following discussion and better understanding of water treatment processes, support increased, though this varied between regions. These results indicated that participants started with quite conservative views, however discussions about broader opportunities for the community made some participants change their minds. Those not in support generally expressed concerns about maintaining the safety and quality of drinking water supplies.

A range of service levels were tested during the survey ranging from no access, shore based access to non-drinking water supplies, access to non-drinking water reservoirs for on water (non-motorized) activities, access to all reservoirs for non-motorized activities and access to all for motorized activities. From the survey outcomes access to non-drinking water reservoirs was prioritized over access to drinking water supplies. Overall for both residential and non-residential customers 56 percent rated access as important and indicated they would utilize reservoirs if they were opened.

Types of activities identified by customers of being the most interest during the engagement process included walking/hiking, fishing, BBQ/picnics, swimming. Other activities mentioned included many on and off water uses such as cycling, kayaking. Tourism opportunities were also identified. Concerns on motorized vehicles and the potential for petrol contaminating the water were identified at some workshops, with specific calls for no motorized access.

Participants were also asked to discuss the important aspects that should be considered when accessing access to reservoirs the criteria discussed by participants were:

1. Ensuring drinking water remains safe to drink 2. Safety of the catchment 3. Public safety 4. The benefits to the community 5. Pollutants to the water 6. Costs to SA Water bills

Post‐project announcement – DEW data

In late July 2018 a basic page was created on the DEW website that invited comment and an indication of support or concerns from the public. More than 90% of the 680 people who have commented to date on this page have identified their support for the opening of reservoirs. The majority of these comments expressed their excitement about the ability access and use the outdoor space for recreation that reservoirs provide. Of those that had concerns and issues comments mainly consisted of apprehension to manage the behaviour of the public at reservoir sites.


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Risk analysis

Risk Mitigation / Response

Community perception in relation to potential negative impacts on drinking water quality

Proactive communication and engagement plan to address concerns with clear, accessible information on how water quality will be protected and managed through decision making process

Concerns from local communities / surrounding landholders or residents about impacts from recreational access resulting in complaints

Consultation and engagement with local residents and landholders to inform decision making and influence site outcomes

Community concerns in relation to negative impacts on environmentally sensitive areas associated with recreational access

Proactive communication and engagement plan to address concerns, environmental information and studies to inform decision making

Conflicting messaging from various government departments on the project

Agreements in place on managing messaging and leads for subject matters

Concerns regarding potential impact on cultural heritage values

Timely engagement with Traditional Owner groups, to commence early in developing opening plans

Lack of awareness and poor uptake of recreational opportunities when available (benefits not realised)

Integrated communication, engaging and media plan implemented, Sourcing good news stories, ensuring openings are promoted. Paid media campaign

Skepticism about ability to influence project decisions resulting in reputational damage to SAW / DEW

Proactive communication and engagement plan with identified opportunities to influence outcomes realised, early engagement to understand community values and to direct development of ‘guiding principles’.

Science and technical information in relation to protection of water quality is not understood or believed resulting in lobbying against

Proactive communication and engagement plan to address concerns with clear, accessible information on how water quality will be protected and managed through decision making process. Ensuring we make the complex simple via language and mediums that are readily understood.


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Stakeholder analysis

Key 1= Low, 5 = high

Stakeholder Insights / Interest in Project Interest Impact Influence Relationship managerTraditional Owner groups Per location Ongoing connection to country, some reservoirs locations include areas

of cultural heritage value and significance or sites. Existing relationships with SA Water around management of the sites and cultural heritage

SA Water

SA Water customers All customers Have consistently expressed priority focus of low and stable water prices

and are unwilling to pay additional costs to enable recreational access. SA Water

Localised supply networks Have an expectation that water supplied through SA Water’s network is clean and safe to drink, and that this will remain the case at all times.

SA Water

Existing SA Water Management/lease arrangements (users)

Trees for Life / Bush for Life Will be interested in changes to existing management arrangements that impact current MOU. Likely to be interested in future opportunities given existing arrangements that may emerge from planning processes.

SA Water

Forestry Will be interested in any changes to existing access / management arrangements that impact current MOU Opportunities to provide greater landscape linkages.

SA Water

Other leaseholders (e.g. bee keepers)

Will be interested in any changes to existing access / managementarrangements that impact current leases

SA Water

Landholders Neighbours Immediate and nearby neighbouring landholders may have a strong

interest in land use within the reservoir precincts, and the impact it has on the amenity within their own properties. Depending on their location and the nature of any developments, neighbouring landholders may or may not be recognised in formal review and approval processes.

SA Water


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Stakeholder Insights / Interest in Project Interest Impact Influence Relationship manager Easement landholders Landholders with easements to facilitate property and asset access may

not be direct neighbours to a reservoir landholding, but could be impacted by the process or outcomes. Easement landholders have a direct influence on SA Water’s ongoing operations and constructive relationships are important to ensure routine and recurring work can be completed in a timely and efficient manner.

SA Water

Catchment landholders May have had land management requirements placed upon them to help maintain water quality within a catchment, and will be keen to see equity between their obligations and any other water quality decisions made.

SA Water

Local communities Reservoir appreciators New opportunities to pursue preferred leisure activities DEW Reservoir protectors Likely to have interest to protect / maintain reservoir values –water

quality, environment etc. DEW

Environmentalists Strong interest to protect / maintain environmental values held at reservoir sits. Will be keen to ensure no impact to significant flora or fauna or to water quality.

DEW

Recreationalists Likely to have interest recreational opportunities on site.

DEW

Disinterested or disengaged Recognised as a section of community that will not engage. DEW Business owners Likely to have interest in business opportunities on site.

DEW

Recreational interests E.g. Fishers, RecfishSA Individuals and member associations, some quite organised.

Size of member base? Geographic locations of members? Current facilities and resources available to them?

DEW

E.g. Cyclists, Bicycle SA, Mountain bikers

New opportunities to pursue preferred leisure activities DEW

Landcare groups Interest in project progress, announcements and opportunities DEW


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Stakeholder Insights / Interest in Project Interest Impact Influence Relationship manager Historians Some sites have heritage status for parts of the infrastructure. Interest to

ensure that these are maintained and/or opportunities to conserve / improve

DEW

Bird watchers New opportunities to pursue preferred leisure activities DEW Horse riders (Horse SA) New opportunities to pursue preferred leisure activities DEWKayakers / Canoe SA New opportunities to pursue preferred leisure activities DEW Motorised water craft To manage expectation of not having access DEW Sailing clubs New opportunities to pursue preferred leisure activities DEW4WD Clubs To manage expectations on opportunities for access DEW Caravan and Camping Industry Association of SA

New opportunities to pursue preferred leisure activities DEW

Dog walkers Interested in easily accessible local areas, increased walking opportunities.Off lead vs on lead perception management and behaviour management

DEW

Walking Trails SA New opportunities to pursue preferred leisure activities DEWRecreation SA New opportunities to pursue preferred leisure activities DEW Model aircraft groups New opportunities to pursue preferred leisure activities DEWModel boat groups New opportunities to pursue preferred leisure activities DEWProgress Associations Interest in project progress, announcements and opportunities DEW Regional Development Groups Interest in project progress, announcements and opportunities DEW Eyre Futures New opportunities to pursue preferred leisure activities DEWScouts / Girl Guides Interested in new opportunities for activities

DEW

Friend of Heysen Trail New opportunities to create new linkages DEW Local governments LGA Interest in planning, land use changes potential opportunities and future

management arrangements SA Water and DEW

Local Council Interest in planning, land use changes potential opportunities and future management arrangements

SA Water

Elected members Interest in project progress, announcement and opportunities SA Water Agencies and departments


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Stakeholder Insights / Interest in Project Interest Impact Influence Relationship manager SA Water SA Water

Regulators and authorities SA Health Protection of public health and management of risk process for drinking

water quality protection SA Water

EPA Water quality projection SA Water SATC Interested in tourism opportunities DEWDTPI Interested in any road or traffic impacts, water safety and management /

compliance role for on water activates DEW

Internal Stakeholders Minister for the Environment Decision maker; will speak with media, affected communities and

stakeholders DEW and SA Water

Taskforce Responsible for delivering the project DEW and SA WaterSA Water Board Responsible for overseeing SA Waters performance and long-term

strategic direction SA Water

Reservoirs Working Groups Responcible for providing expert advice and recommendations to the taskforce

DEW

DEW Executive and in particular GED’s Parks and Regions and People and Performance and Director Community Engagement

Oversight and support for the project, including staff resources DEW

Protected Area Policy Advise on legislative, regulatory and policy requirements to inform the opening and management of reservoirs

DEW

DEW Community Engagement Branch, regional engagement and Aboriginal engagement staff

Provide engagement support, need to be kept informed of the project DEW

SAW - Operational staff at reservoir sites

Current site operators and change in use will impact the way they currently manage the sites

SA Water

SAW staff Change in reservoir use may impact SA Water usual business SA Water


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5 - Documents affecting inter-governmental and local government relations, 7 - Documents affecting business affairs, 4 - Documents affecting law enforcement and public safety


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Stakeholder Insights / Interest in Project Interest Impact Influence Relationship manager Other DEW staff DEW’s role in reservoirs may assist in learning new ways of park

management. DEW

DEW - National park rangers, Regional staff and District staff, Cultural rangers, Natural Resource Centre staff in all regions

Hold existing relationships with land holders, decision on recreational use and opening of reservoirs will impact current management of community expectation and managing sits across the regions.

DEW

DEW - Fire Management staff, Crown Lands Program, Assets and Project Services

Will have an interest in future management scenarios and potential impacts of DEW staff, in particular fire management

DEW


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Integrated Communication, Engagement and Media Tools and Tactics

This plan outlines our integrated approach communication, engagement and media activities to support the state government commitment to open reservoirs for recreational use.

Government Relations

As key election commitment government the project team will ensure the Minister for Environment and Water is kept abreast of progress and has a high level visibility with respect to project progress. This will be achieved through briefings, face to face meetings, draft outreach materials including media releases (to be sent to Minister’s office prior to issue) and Parliamentary briefing notes where required. This enables information sharing across portfolios and electorates as required.

Local Members of Parliament will be provided with information and kept up to date through meetings as appropriate, though briefings/meetings or provision of outreach communication materials.

Taskforce (including working groups)

The Taskforce and working groups have oversight of the project and will be kept informed as part of decision making processes through meetings, briefings, Agenda items and discussion papers.

DEW staff engagement

DEW staff will have varying levels of interest.

The Taskforce is led and supported through DEW and the whole of project is coordinated through DEW. The communications and engagement is also being lead through DEW. DEW staff will also include Regional and District staff across Natural Resource Management regions and others that may be directly impacted by outcomes, interact with interested community; be directly involved or input into briefings. DEW specific roles will also include advising on natural resource, legislative, regulatory and policy requirements to inform the opening and management of reservoirs.

Communications channels will include face to face meetings and briefings and other internal channels such as all staff / targeted email distributions). The focus is to engage with staff that have the most potential to be impacted to understand their ideas, concerns to influence and inform outcomes as appropriate.

SA Water staff engagement

SA Water staff will have varying levels of interest. Their understanding of the project outcomes and benefits will help them confidently talk about the changes inside and outside SA Water.

Some areas will have high levels of interest as they will be directly impacted by project outcomes or will be directly involved in planning and delivery of project outcomes, input to briefings, engagement processes, and communication material and so on. This includes:

Senior Leadership Team Senior Managers Reservoir Operators Land Managers Environment team


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Asset Managers Customer facing (engagement advisers, field staff, customer care centre) Others will have general interest as SA Water employees or may have interest to utilise these spaces

once opened. Understanding the project and project messages will help staff with the changes that will be brought about but the project as well as confidently and proudly talk about the opportunity in conversations.

Communications channels will include face to face meetings and briefings and other internal channels such as all staff / targeted email distributions and Together (SA Water internal newsletter). The focus is to engage with staff that have the most potential to be impacted to understand their ideas, concerns to influence and inform outcomes as appropriate. For general SA Water staff the focus will be communication of the project’s key messages to build awareness, change resilience and pride.

Collaborative delivery of communications, engagement and media

Successful delivery of this project will requires a multi – agency approach. To ensure aligned communications and engagement activities all outreach will be undertaken in close collaboration between DEW, the lead agency, and SA Water, the owner of reservoir infrastructure, land manager and utility responsible for providing safe, clean drinking water to the people of South Australia.

Media –proactive and reactive

Proactive and reactive media opportunities will be undertaken with media outlets to communicate project information, timeframes, milestones and opportunities for community engagement. Due to its reach and influence, mainstream media will be a vital tool to raise awareness, and enable balanced reporting and commentary.

Media will support the objectives of communication and engagement plan with the following specific aims:

To promote the planning, implementation and outputs of the Taskforce delivering the South Australian Government’s election commitment and the long-term benefits delivered for South Australians.

To drive positive regional and state-wide media coverage of the election commitment being delivered. To raise awareness and build support for the election commitment through traditional and social media.

The below media outlets and social media platforms have been identified as key ways to ensure we reach the target audience.

DEW Twitter DEW regional Facebook accounts, particularly AMLR Environment SA News and Environment SA Facebook SA Water Twitter and Facebook accounts Parks SA Facebook Minister Speirs Facebook

National parks SA Instagram Media outlets to target:

Advertiser / AdelaideNow Channel ABC, 7, 9 and 10 TV news ABC radio


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5AA radio Regional media outlets, as per reservoir location

The Media teams will also continue to build strong relationships with key journalists, producers, Chiefs of Staff and broadcasters. At times it may be necessary for spokespeople to be part of media briefings that set context and provide in depth insight to specific issues.

Approved spokespeople

To build confidence with the South Australian public through the media, it’s important we use highly capable media spokespeople. Primary spokespeople across key activity areas will be:

1. Milestone announcements – SA Minister for the Environment and Water, David Speirs 2. Feature topics – technical specialists as appropriate 3. DEW Chief Executive CE John Schutz 4. SA Water Chief Executive Roch Cheroux

Media and social media approval process

To ensure all communications material is factually correct and approved for release, the below approval process for content aims to avoid inaccurate or incomplete information leaking out which could jeopardise community support and/or delivery of the project.

Source content – DEW and SA Water media Draft – DEW media Review - Arkellah Irving Senior Engagement Advisor, then SA Water media First approval - Justin Holmes, Project Coordinator Second approval - John Schutz, Project Sponsor and Chief Executive, Roch Cheroux, SA Water CE Final approval - Minister Speirs’ Office

Approval processes may change over the time of the project and across various stages. This process is intended to be used at the planning and establishment phases.

Advertising campaign

The majority of South Australian’s are unaware of the beauty and recreational opportunity that reservoirs provide. Media advertising can be a useful tool to strengthen messages, build a profile and increase awareness to support other engagement and communication activities. It provides mechanism for reaching people in a timely manner and ensuring the messages get out to as many South Australian’s as possible while developing an enduring and positive sentiments.

In this circumstance its use will focused on influencing behavior: to create and stimulate interest, and excitement to promote people use these spaces once opened.

A workshop with both DEW and SA Water staff was held in to scope an Advertising campaign. Agreement was made on the on the style of the media campaign being focused on the tourism opportunity, both local, state and interstate that opening each site will enable. Branding was suggested to come under the Brand SA banner, leading the campaign to future opportunities and a positive outcome for the state.


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The following are the agreed communications elements of the paid campaign:

Opportunity – when people can do things at reservoirs as well as economic benefits, jobs, flow on to the regions and the state.

Conversation piece - building on much more than the previous reservoir openings. Natural beauty – open for enjoyment, spectacular scenery, natural places. Wildlife – national park type space now open for use and enjoyment that has many wildlife experiences

on offer. Site/ reservoir specific variability – each reservoir will have its own ‘offering’. Some reservoirs will have

more family and local community appeal while others will have a more bespoke tourism market appeal. Wellness benefits – reservoirs are appealing for wellness outdoor activities such as yoga, ‘forest bathing’

and other activities evolving in the wellbeing space. Creating ‘buzz’ – getting the message out there and building excitement about the reservoir openings,

while managing expectations about what people can and can’t do.

Digital communication platforms (website, intranet, social media)

Making best use of owned digital platforms is increasingly important. These channels enable us to directly engage with the community and our stakeholders in a timely and cost effective way.

A basic webpage has been created on the DEW website as a place for early engagement and to receive early comments and concerns. Feedback collected from this page has been primarily positive in supporting reservoirs and has provided some valuable feedback on early concerns and considerations.

Ahead of project engagement, a fully developed site will made available for people to visit, gather information, sign up to stay informed and participate in activities.

Twitter is the first port of call for media, political and government bodies, with, LinkedIn being utilised by the professional online community, similar business entities and SA Water staff. Finally, YouTube is used as a housing tool for videos hosted on our website, but is also the touch point for a diverse audience to view our content on a dedicated video channel, not requiring membership to true social channels. .

Communications are the custodians of our digital platforms and will manage the information that is released in collaboration with the project team. Communications will also regularly audit digital platforms to ensure the content aligns with the key messaging and integrated approach.

A key outreach mechanism will be eNews for identified third parties, such as state government service agencies, local government and representative groups who can draw on our project information to better serve their communities. The consistent inclusion of project achievements (statistics, anecdotes) with useable tools like our online interactive map will be used to drive connection with our website. Other communication platforms (e.g. publications, fact sheets).

Communication material will be developed and will be refreshed, periodically as the project develops to match key stages and ensure alignment with the integrated approach and reflect key messages. This includes online content, engagement materials fact sheets and so on. Print-published material that is factually correct and approved for release will be developed following the process set out below to avoid inaccurate or incomplete information being disseminated as this could negatively impact community support and the successful delivery of the project.


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Engagement material approval process

As a collaborative project Table 2 below collates and summaries engagement and decision making processes. These will be evolve over time and be refined as part of detailed tactic development and detailed action plans.

Roles:

Justin Holmes DEW Project Coordinator lead (Jason Irving DEW project oversight) James Crocker SA Water Project manager Arkellah Irving DEW Engagement and communications lead Tara Hage SA Water Engagement and communications Melissa Martin DEW Media lead Josh Zugajev SA Water Media Michael Garrod DEW Paid media campaign oversight

To ensure all communications material is factually correct and approved for release, the below approval process for content.

1. Source content – DEW and SA Water (as per theme lead) 2. Review - Arkellah Irving Project Communications, then SA Water Communications and Engagement 3. First approval - Justin Holmes, Project Manager 4. Second approval - John Schutz, Project Sponsor and DEW CE, Roch Cheroux, SA Water CE 5. Final approval - Minister Speirs’ Office

Item First point of contact

Responsibility Collaborative input

Endorsement Sign off

Reporting and presenting to the Taskforce on comms, engagement and media

Justin/ Arkellah DEW Arkellah SA Water when required

Jason/ Mike DEW

Ministerial enquiries - stakeholder involvement

Jason/ Justin DEW Arkellah SA Water when required

Jason DEW exec

Ministerial enquires - water quality/ safety management

James SA Water James/ DEW Justin

DEW James SA Water

Minister’s Office direct enquiries

Jason DEW Jason/ Justin

Arkellah/ WG leads/ James/ Tara

Jason DEW

Development of communications, and engagement plans

Arkellah DEW Arkellah SA Water - Tara Mike DEW/ Taskforce

Engaging Traditional Owners

Arkellah/ Tara (depending on existing relationships)

DEW Arkellah / SA Water- Tara

DEW Aboriginal engagement staff, regional/ district staff SA Water

Mike and Tara DEW

Meetings with stakeholders (i.e. local councils)

Justin/ Arkellah Arkellah/ Tara DEW and SA Water

Mike/ James DEW and SA Water


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Item First point of contact

Responsibility Collaborative input

Endorsement Sign off

Meetings with interest groups (i.e. Recreation SA)



Public events/ community meetings



General public enquires/ involvement

Justin/ Arkellah DEW Arkellah Tara Jason DEW

Development of key messages

Justin/ Arkellah DEW Arkellah/ Tara

DEW and SA Water

Mike/ Anna/ Josh

DEW/ Taskforce

Stakeholder day-to-day management

Arkellah/ Tara/ Justin

DEW Arkellah Tara Mike/ James DEW

Development of Stakeholder Action Plans for each reservoir

Arkellah/ Tara Collab Tara/ Arkellah

WG’s, SA Water operational staff, DEW regional staff

Anna/ Mike DEW/ Taskforce

Stakeholder mapping, planning – at each reservoir

Tara and Arkellah

Tara and Arkellah

DEW and SA Water

Mike/ Anna DEW

Stakeholder contact, engagement and relationship management on ‘informing people’, ‘working with impacted stakeholders’ and ‘residents’

Arkellah and Tara

Arkellah/ Tara DEW and SA Water

Mike/ Anna/ James

DEW

Development of paid media / advertising campaign

Arkellah DEW Arkellah Melissa / Michael Josh / SA Water media staff

Mike/ Josh

DEW CE/ Taskforce / GCA

Media enquiries – project progress and public involvement opportunities

Melissa DEW Arkellah/ Justin

DEW and SA Water

Mike/ Josh DEW

Media enquiries – water safety management

Josh SA Water Josh/ Tara

DEW and SA Water

SA Water SA Water

Development of FAQ’s, engagement outreach and communication materials

Arkellah Arkellah and Tara

DEW and SA Water

Josh/ James/ Mike

DEW

Development of engagement events schedule

Arkellah Arkellah/ Tara WG’s, SA Water operational staff, DEW regional staff

Mike/ Anna/ James

DEW/ Taskforce

Table 2. Engagement approval process.


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Key messages About the project

The government has committed $5 million to progressively open up reservoirs across South Australia to provide for a range of recreational activities, including walking, cycling, kayaking, sailing and fishing.

The state government is committed to opening our reservoirs while maintaining the existing landscape’s environmental and cultural values, plus the safety and security of South Australian’s drinking water supply. To achieve this, recreational activities will be introduced in a staged manner, only after passing strict assessments.

A cross-government Reservoir Taskforce (DEW, SA Water, PIRSA, DPTI and SATC) has been established to provide advice on each reservoir’s recreation potential, infrastructure requirements, development opportunities, and maintaining the security of South Australia’s drinking water.

Early access to a number of reservoirs is expected in mid-2019. The project will also look at creating further recreational opportunities for the reservoirs that are already

open to the public.

Inspiring enjoyment of the outdoors

Reservoirs are an amazing natural resource that should be enjoyed by all. Each reservoir is unique in landscape, views, atmosphere and facilities, so recreational activities will be

tailored to suit each different reservoir. The opening of reservoirs will create new places for people to enjoy the outdoors. Reservoirs will provide an opportunity for the public to have access to more green space, and will

enable the connecting up of current tracks, trails and camping experiences through existing public lands and national parks.

Ensuring safe drinking water

Safety of drinking water won’t be compromised. The opening of reservoirs will be carried out with great care and planning to prevent any impacts on the

security of South Australia’s safe, clean drinking water supplies. We are working with SA Health to ensure health and water quality guidelines determine the balance

between recreational use, access and drinking water safety. Conserving nature and culture

Each reservoir provides habitat to a range of plants and animals, including some which are ‘threatened’. Reservoirs will continue to be managed to conserve and protect the environment. Reservoirs will continue to be managed to conserve cultural heritage. We respect the cultural and spiritual relationship that Aboriginal People have with land and water and

its importance to cultural vitality and resilience. Assessments will be undertaken at reservoirs to understand cultural significance of sites, to inform

infrastructure development and access as well as to identify opportunities for Aboriginal economic and wellbeing advancement.

Invigorating tourism and economic development

Unlocking our reservoirs will energise our regions, drive more tourists and increase revenue into small regional businesses.

Opening up reservoirs will provide opportunities to develop South Australia’s tourism experiences, including eco, nature-based and boutique tourism.

Reservoirs already open for recreational activities


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Five offline reservoirs are already open to the public providing access to picnic and BBQ areas (Beetaloo, Tod and Aroona Dam Reservoirs), tennis courts and a museum (Tod Reservoir), and recreational fishing (Warren, Beeraloo and Bundaleer Reservoirs).

Recreational fishing

The public can already undertake recreational fishing in three reservoirs in South Australia: Warren, Beetaloo and Bundaleer Reservoirs.

A Fishing in Reservoir Working Group will provide advice to the Reservoir Taskforce on the type of fishing experience for each of the different reservoirs, including the type of species, the needs of stocking, and management of recreational fishing.

Beetaloo, Warren and Bundaleer Reservoirs are already stocked with Murray cod, Golden and Silver perch. Bundaleer Reservoir is also stocked with Rainbow and Brown Trout.

Community involvement

As each reservoir is considered for public access, people will be invited to have their say. People are encouraged to provide feedback throughout the project at

https://www.environment.sa.gov.au/topics/reservoirs [create shortened URL]. This feedback will help shape future developments of the project.

Future management of reservoirs

Every reservoir is different and will be managed differently to allow for public access. Who will manage reservoirs and how they will be managed in the future has not yet been determined.

Communication and Engagement Phases

The project involves four key engagement and communications phases, noting that all phases will overlap to some degree due to the nature of the project being delivered in stages.

The phases will allow messages to be structured to project needs and to support the planning and implementation of initiative to 2022, with early access intended mid-2019.

It is expected that the phases will cross over. The phases are:

Phase 1 - Actioning the policy commitment. Phase 2 – Implementing Phase 3 – Celebration Phase 4 - Promotion and uptake

Phase 1 ‐ Actioning the policy commitment

Raising awareness and informing the public and opening the door to the reservoir conversation is the main focus for phase 1. This phase is geared towards sharing key information with stakeholders and the public about reservoirs, the project and the opportunity for people as well as how risk will be managed. A focus of this phase is to start the conversation with the community in preparation for gaining insights in their key values and objectives for these sites, to inform the development of a series of guiding principles. This phase includes building the tools to support the engagement program and activities (website, digital platforms).

This phase also includes gaining insights to shape planning, including the development of guiding principles to inform decision making through a robust and transparent process. This includes stakeholder engagement and building public


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awareness of the reservoirs’ natural beauty and opportunities for recreational use as part of the development of a series of guiding principles.

Developing these principles as a key initial outcome of the engagement process will provide transparency around the process, assist with managing expectations and enable sentiment and location specific insights and provide a by point of consistent reference into the future by defining key values, objectives and decision making criteria including what activities are appropriate and why.

This phase will also include some early wins, as part of staging and building support. This phase includes:

- Gain early input from key stakeholders, including local groups, local government, DEW Regional and District staff, SA Water District managers and the public to ensure their thoughts and ideas are included and early issues and risks identified.

- State wide engagement campaign seeking feedback and input on values and opportunities to inform the development of guiding principles (launched by Minister supported by media and social, drop in sessions).

- Market research activity to support the engagement process and ensure robust and statistically representative outcomes are informing the guiding principles and community aspirations;

- Develop relationships with key stakeholders and build their support for the project to ensure smooth development and delivery.

Inform directly affected stakeholders and interested community that: Work is underway to open reservoirs in a staged approach. Recreational opportunities will become available at various reservoirs over the coming years. They will have an opportunity to have their say on the opening of reservoirs.

Phase 2 – Implementing

This stage would start to focus on the individual locations and access to these, including the work to enable new forms of access and managing localised stakeholder priorities and concerns. Consultation and engagement continues as a focus for this phase, particularly with targeted stakeholders and the public on opening reservoirs. This phase supports the opening of reservoirs in a staged approach. This includes meetings with key stakeholders and community groups and running public events to showcase reservoirs and their natural assets. Targeted stakeholder engagement and public involvement opportunities will inform this phase.

This phase will: Inform directly affected stakeholders of which reservoirs will be opened, timeframes for infrastructure

development and how it could impact them. Gain more targeted stakeholder and community feedback on the project, including proposed

recreational activity ideas, types of eco-tourism and nature based tourism that would be acceptable to local communities and build regional jobs.

Help ensure the project considers directly affected stakeholder and community needs, as well as meets regulatory and South Australian Government requirements

Inform the Taskforce and Minister’s decision when approving the reservoir openings. Manage expectations on timing of reservoir openings clearly define what stakeholders and the

community can influence. Build support for the project to ensure smooth implementation.

Phase 3 ‐ Celebration

This phase would mark the actual opening of new recreational activities at a site with events and a focus on the community benefits arising from new experiences. It would showcase the success of early wins and include campaigns


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that continue to build excitement and encourage access through profiling and campaigning the new recreational opportunities.

This phase recognisies the need for ongoing engagement and communications with stakeholders. This will help to manage emerging issues around implementation and be both proactive and reactive as reservoirs become open.

Throughout this time we will also aim to gain stakeholder and community feedback on the project, including proposed recreational activity ideas, types of eco-tourism and nature based tourism that would be acceptable to local communities and build regional jobs.

Phase 4 – Promoting and uptake

This phase is geared towards promoting the reservoir openings and getting people into the reservoirs to recreate and enjoy. This phase would work to drive ongoing visitation and uptake of the new opportunities by building awareness of their availability and the positive outcomes being achieved.

Table 3 outlines the indicative communications and engagement activities proposed throughout the project phases.


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Timing Activity and purpose Audience Channel Deliverables ResponsibilityAugust 2018 Development of key messages to support

project communications All Website

Social Print publications Responses

Key messages developed and approved

DEW/ SA Water with Working Groups

September 2018 Development of FAQ’s

All Website FAQ available DEW/ SA Water with Working Groups

October- Nov2018

Establish new ‘Opening Up Our Reservoirs’ microsite as central source of information on the project.

All Website Website domainWebsite architecture Website page content: Overview Election commitment Highlights of existing recreational access Link to engagement platform

DEW, SA Water and SATC

October 2018 Create an online survey for recreational use information gathering

All Website, social media Promote survey Begin collecting information on recreational use needs to inform planning

DEW/ SA Water with Working Groups

October 2018 Establish project contact mechanisms for general public and unsolicited stakeholder segment contact

All Email Telephone Postal

Email address and inbox management process Telephone number, voicemail greeting and management process Postal address, immediate acknowledgement response slip, correspondence management process

DEW

October 2018 Develop letters to community and stakeholders

All Email Create pathway for early engagement DEW and SA Water

October 2018 Establish appropriate social media platforms to leverage campaign content throughout the life of the project

All Instagram Instagram account Basic guidelines for posting content Forward program of light-touch posts

DEW – Channel DEW and SAW – content

October 2018 Establish image library including drone footage of suitable content to use across all channels, showing a variety of relatable audience segments enjoying recreational activities in natural environments, as well

All Website Social Print publications

Photo/image shoots: Special places Flora and fauna Recreating together

DEW and SA Water


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as highlights from special places at reservoirs

October 2018 Establish an e-newsletter that can be used as the primary mass communication mechanism with interested stakeholders throughout the course of the campaign.

All Email Email newsletter template Email address contact database

DEW

October 2018 Letter/ mail out to key external stakeholder groups to introduce the project and foster interest and provide point of contact for further engagement.

EmailPost

Letter sent DEW

Timing Activity and purpose Audience Channel Deliverables ResponsibilityJuly 2018 Announce formation of cross-

government taskforce beginning work to deliver the election commitment

All State-wide print media (Sunday Mail)

Media statement Minister’s Office

Monthly Monthly key message update on taskforce progress and milestones for Minister (for reference in other unrelated activities like media interviews and speaking engagements)

Various Briefing note Briefing note updated on monthly basis

DEW

Sept / Oct Gain early input from key stakeholders, including local groups, local councils, DEW regional and district staff, SA Water District managers and the public to ensure their thoughts and ideas are included and early issues and risks identified.

Various Email Face to Face Briefings

Collate early feedback DEW and SA Water

Develop relationships with key stakeholders and build their support for the project to ensure smooth development and delivery

Various Face to Face and emails Collate early feedback DEW and SA Water

Ongoing All Website Blog posts: DEW and SA Water


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Foster ongoing interest and excitement for new recreational activities across South Australia, with regular content about reservoirs and catchment properties

Quirky facts What lies beneath Flora and fauna Cultural heritage

Social channels Social posts:Quirky facts What lies beneath Flora and fauna Cultural heritage Aerial images Existing recreation opportunities

DEW and SA Water

Traditional media Media releases: Quirky facts What lies beneath Flora and fauna Cultural heritage

DEW and SA Water

Bi-annually Provide a holistic update on the project to demonstrate delivery of the election commitment in a careful, considered and successful manner

All Traditional media Media releaseFeature AM radio program interview

DEW and SA Water

Website Blog post DEW and SA Water

Timing Activity and purpose Audience Channel Deliverables ResponsibilityNovember 2018 Invite the South Australian community to

consult on guiding principles for ‘Opening Up Our Reservoirs’ that will help shape the future of recreational access at reservoirs

Community Special interest groups Business owners

Website Online consultation activity Social channels /social advertising

Social posts DEW

Online tool/ WaterTalks Survey outcome SA WaterTraditional media Media release and photo opportunity DEW Email Advertising Online banner ads

EGN regional and metro publication print ads Neighbours Letter Direct mail pointing to website SA WaterTraditional Owners F2F Meeting As per Aboriginal engagement plan SA Water Local government Letter


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Agencies Email Educate participants about the priorities that have shaped the draft guiding principles

All Website Blog posts about issues influencing guiding principles: Water quality Environment Physical safety Noise and amenity

SA Water customers Traditional media Water quality risk assessment media release SA WaterCustomer accounts Bill page 3 artwork SA Water

Neighbours Letter Direct mail pointing to websiteConduct market research to gain quantitative and qualitative insights into attitudes towards recreational access and help shape guiding principles

Professionally curated audience to be statistically valid and representative of South Australian community

Quantitative research activity

Research method TBC by expert Report with research findings

Qualitative research activity

Research method TBC by expert Report with research findings

January 2019 Share the guiding principles that have been formed following community consultation, and the feedback that helped shape them

All Website Media Email Social

Page content

Timing Activity and purpose Audience Channel Deliverables Responsibility Invite the South Australian community to

consult on a master plan to guide the development and implementation of recreational access at reservoirs.

CommunitySpecial interest groups Neighbours Business owners

Social channels Social postAdvertising Online banner ads

EGN regional and metro publication print ads

Traditional media Media release Agencies Email Local government Letter

Facilitate the feedback opportunity Community Special interest groups Neighbours Business owners

Drop-in sessions Locations Venues Event methodology Information sharing tools Information gathering tools


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Community Special interest groups Neighbours SA Water customers Business owners

Website Online consultation activity

Traditional Owners F2F meeting Timing Activity and purpose Audience Channel Deliverables Responsibility Feb 2019 Engage with stakeholders and interested

community members to understand site specific priorities that would influence implementation plans for opening specific reservoirs (targeted)

Share the site’s implementation plan All Website Traditional media Social media

Assist in the practical preparation of the site for opening

Visitors Site signage Access/directional/information signageInterpretive signage

Site brochures Brochure copyMaps Facility guides

Website Page content Work with the site’s neighbouring

communities and stakeholders to manage the practical impacts of construction and development of recreational access

Neighbours Key stakeholders

Letter F2F meetings Drop-in session

Two or three months prior to opening

Share insights of the preparation process to build anticipation for the site’s opening

All Traditional media Media release and photo opportunities: Fish stock growing Facility construction

Social media Social posts: Fish stock growing Facility construction


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Timing Activity and purpose Audience Channel Deliverables Responsibility One month prior to opening day

Invite key stakeholders to mark the opening of a site for new recreational access opportunities at an upcoming celebratory event

NeighboursTraditional Owners Business owners Community

Letter Invitation

Recreational interest groups

Email Invitation

All Traditional media Media alertOpening day Hold celebratory event to mark the

opening of a site for new recreational access opportunities

Invited guests Event Event plan Location Venue Equipment Theming Welcome to Country Demonstrations Speech notes Site brochure with access details

Week of opening Promote participation in new recreational activities and their operational details

Recreational interest groups

Social channels Targeted sponsored social post

Community Advertising Online banner adsRadio short reads TV program segment (South Aussie with Cosi)

Social channels Social postsTraditional media Media release and photo opportunity

Neighbours Letter Cover letter and site brochure with access detailsOne month after opening

Showcase the success of new recreational activities for recreators

Community Traditional media Media release and photo opportunitySocial channels Social posts Website Blog posts

Community Traditional media Media release and photo opportunity


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Three months after opening

Showcase the success of new recreational activities for local business owners

Social channels Social posts Website Blog posts


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Evaluation

Phase 1: Informing and gathering early feedback

Objective Measurement Tool

Development of integrated communication, engagement and media plan to support the planning and implementation of opening our reservoirs

Endorsement of plan by DEW and SA Water

Endorsement by Taskforce

Via Taskforce

Community supported guiding principles developed Number of people contributing

% supporting guiding principles

%positive feedback

Count of input and % positive comments/sentiments

WaterTalks metrics

Positive media stories on opening reservoirs 80% positive or balanced media stories

Count

Inform the public of the ability to have their say through the –opening reservoirs website

Number of people who have left a comment or identified support for the project through the web links

DEW webpage

Google Analytics

Google Analytics

Inform directly affected stakeholders and interested community that they will have an opportunity to have their say the opening of reservoirs

All affected councils are contacted

All affected residents and community groups are contacted

Number of visits to project website pages

Number of visits to relevant DEW regional website pages

Stakeholder database


Google Analytics

Google Analytics


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Develop relationships with key stakeholders and build their support for the policy to ensure smooth development and delivery

% positive/neutral feedback from key stakeholders

% positive/neutral media articles

Feedback records

Daily media monitoring

Stage 2: Consultation/ opening of reservoirs


Inform directly affected stakeholders of when their reservoirs will open and what recreational activities will likely be offered and seek their feedback and input

All affected councils are contacted

All relevant Friends of Parks groups are contacted

Number of attendees at regional meetings




Attendance sheets

Manage expectations on what is stakeholders and the community can influence

Number of questions/concerns received from people and community re not meeting expectations

Feedback records

Build support for the policy to ensure smooth implementation

% positive/neutral feedback Feedback records

Stage 3: Feedback and evaluation


Provide a community feedback report to the Minister for Environment and Water that represents community views and support

Number of responses via website

Number of responses via email

All stakeholder groups are represented - % responses from each stakeholder group

Data from website

Spreadsheet

Spreadsheet


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Inform engagement participants of what feedback was received, how it was used and how it influenced final decisions

Number of visits to DEW website Google Analytics

Ensure directly affected stakeholders understand the steps beyond the election commitment

Number of questions/concerns received via email/phone following decision

Spreadsheet

DEW Budget and resources 2018-2022

Details Cost estimate


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1 Attachment 2 – Engagement Opportunities Authors: Arkellah Irving, Senior Engagement Advisor, DEW and Tara Hage Senior Manager Customer and Community Engagement SAW and Joshua Zugajev, Senior manager, Media Relations SAW.

Attachment 2‐ Opening up Our Reservoirs engagement

opportunities

Discussion paper

Intended for internal use only – not for public messaging

Purpose of this paper

This discussion paper is intended to stimulate conversation between members of the Reservoirs

Taskforce and the Minister on the range of options for public engagement to support the opening of

first reservoirs by June 2019 and opening of reservoirs after this time.

This paper seeks in‐principle endorsement for an engagement kick‐off to support the community

feedback component of reservoir ‘Open Plans’ which are currently being drafted, in preparation for

announcing the opening of reservoirs. Undertaking engagement during the planning phase of this

project will buy some time in the public arena for infrastructure to be planned and implemented at

selected sites while still realising the first opening of reservoirs by June 2019.

The paper seeks to identify an appetite for meaningful engagement opportunities that will enable

both short term wins and longer termed confidence in the management of reservoirs for recreation

and safe drinking water. The paper summarises a scalable engagement approach and outlines some

of the known and perceived benefits of engagement.

Public engagement on the opening of reservoirs and finalisation of a draft Communications,

Engagement and Media Plan for the Opening up Our Reservoirs (which is available on request) will

be determined by the outcome of these conversations and agreement by leaders on engagement.

Expert‐led decision making driving project parameters

The opening up of reservoirs requires significant assessment and advice from experts ranging across

water quality, human health, water safety, recreation use and impacts, fish stocking, infrastructure

cost and impacts, tourism and economic opportunity as well as public access, land management

arrangements, legislation and policy and community and Aboriginal engagement. This requirement

is what is referred to as an ‘expert‐led’ decision‐making process in the realms of community

engagement.

Expert‐led processes mean that experts will make the majority of the decisions, in this case, on

which reservoirs can be opened for which range of recreational opportunities (I.e. on‐water v’s off‐

water). The risk or missed opportunity that often results from this type of process is the ability to

‘bring communities along’ with a project as it moves from concept to implementation. This can

result in people being unhappy about projects being undertaken without their consent or input and

opposing decisions being made about places they have an interest in. This can lead to reputational

issues and damage, an increased need to invest time and resources to managing opposition or

lobbying, delays or an inability to achieve desired outcomes such as not being able to open a

reservoir, or visitor and recreation experience offers that are not wanted or not used by people.

Draft communications, engagement and media plan summary

An active and integrated draft Communications, Engagement and Media Plan (‘the draft plan’) has

been prepared to support the successful project delivery and is complemented by a targeted


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krichardson1

Text Box

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advertising campaign that will demonstrate progress in the delivery of this initiative, ensure public

reach and build excitement for the future opportunities that will be provided. Before this plan and

advertising campaign is finalised discussion is being sought on the level of comfort and appetite for

engagement on this project.

This project has high visibility and priority across government. An integrated and proactive approach

to communication, engagement and media activities will best position the initiative for success and

ensure that there strong alignment between the delivery stages of the project and the

communications and engagement elements as well as close alignment between DEW and SA Water

messaging.

This paper acknowledges that opportunities for people to have their say and get involved in shaping

the future of their reservoirs will promote support, within the constraints of an expert‐led process

and conservative budget.

It is intended that communities ‘local people at reservoirs’ and stakeholders ‘people who have an

interest in the outcome of the project’ will have multiple opportunities to:

Be informed at every significant step of the project, digital, face‐to‐face and open days

where appropriate.

Be given the opportunity to express their concerns, ideas and support through various

channels.

Be granted early opportunity to work with project staff and reservoir land managers, where

appropriate and of benefit to the project outcomes on: planning, tourism development, and

conservation and reconciliation outcomes.

A key principle of the stakeholder communication and engagement approach will be to better

understand the breath of perceptions, attitudes and issues that being felt then working with the

community to address them early.

In summary, the draft plan offers eight optional priorities for communications, engagement and

media, not in order of priority:

1. Build excitement about the opening of reservoirs – using a dedicated advertising campaign,

communications, media strategy (social and media relations) to reach the public of South

Australia throughout the stages of the project.

2. Manage Expectations – using a set of key and evolving messages that clearly communicate

parameters on what will and won’t be allowed at reservoirs across various communications

channels and including fact sheets and FAQ’s.

3. Raise awareness – using imagery and engaging communications on social media to

showcase the natural beauty of reservoirs and to ensure broad public reach is attained.

4. Encourage participation – ensure communities and stakeholders have an opportunity to

have their say both broadly about the project and site specific across reservoirs at several of

the project stages. Lack of consultation can be costly and impact project delivery and timing.

5. Seek community participation before the opening of reservoirs and to support the release

of any concept plans – including stakeholder letters, face‐to‐face meetings, social media and

media announcements about ow to get involved.

6. Use multiple tools and tactics to gather feedback– this includes using surveys and market

research to understand community values and recreational preferences.


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7. Establish a set of guiding principles for engagement ‐ Developing these principles is a key

learning gathered from South East Queensland Water colleagues who have successfully

managed reservoirs for recreational use for more than 10 years. As an initial outcome of the

engagement process it will provide transparency around the process and assist with

managing expectations from people both in the short and long term.

8. Establish a web page – for people to access information about the project progress, how to

get involved and what they can do at reservoirs once they open.

The planning with community and stakeholder participation will be the first of several contributing

to the overall communications and engagement support needed to enable the delivery of the

project and it is expected that this early phase will completed by April 2019. Subsequent phases will

focus on Implementation, Celebration and Promotion and uptake.

Benefits of meaningful engagement

There is a proven and clear benefit from providing a genuine early opportunity for the South

Australian community to have a say and influence how the opening of reservoirs unfolds. This

approach will leave a positive legacy for all involved.

Other benefits and opportunities include:

Providing an avenue to constructively channel all of the stakeholder feedback that needs to be

gathered from specific groups with established relationships to the sites or their management

such as regulators, Traditional Owners, Agencies and existing users, in a way that gets balanced

with community feedback.

Allowing detailed technical planning and investigative processes to be pursued in the

background, so that their outputs can be combined with community and stakeholder feedback

to enable rapid action once guiding principles are confirmed.

Identifying any unknown interested stakeholder groups so they can be involved and managed

early in the process.

Gathering credible feedback on the preferred types of recreational activities and frequency of

intention to use.


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Agenda Item 5, Attachment 4 Meeting Date: 14 November 2018

Advice – Recreation and Infrastructure Working Group

VISITOR INFRASTRUCTURE AND BUDGET ESTIMATES

The Reservoirs Recreation and Infrastructure Working Group has developed high level

recreation infrastructure concepts and budget estimates to support the opening of South

Para, Warren and Myponga reservoirs.

The concepts and budgets proposed are to be considered indicative only at this stage and are

subject to further risk assessment, feasibility assessment, detailed planning and engagement

with the community. The cost estimates could vary significantly as detail depending on the

scale, location and design of recreation infrastructure (i.e. +/‐ 50% minimum). Estimates do

not include any internal (DEW or SA Water) project management costs.

It is anticipated that following review and endorsement by the taskforce, work to refine these

concepts and budget estimates will occur. On overview of the facility development process and

approximate timeframes is provided below.

Also presented below are concept and budget estimates for recreational infrastructure at

Myponga, South Para and Warren Reservoirs, presented under the following categories:

1) Core facility development – infrastructure considered necessary to provide for basic

recreational access. Development of this infrastructure is nominally achievable in

2019, subject to approvals.

2) Future development options – additional facilities that could be added following the

completion of water quality risk assessments, or that value add to core recreational

facilities (these items are in red in the following budget estimates).

ATTACHMENTS

Attachment – Facility Development Process and Approximate Timeframes

Attachment – Concepts and budgets estimates

Michael Kidd A/ Coordinator Strategic Projects, DEW A/ Chair, Recreation and Infrastructure Working Group


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Facility Development Process and Approximate Timeframes

Visitor facility development is proposed to occur in accordance with the process and associated

timeframes set out below.

Stage Indicative timeframes

Budget allowances & scope developed Costs +/‐ 50% minimum (complete for Myponga, South Para and Warren)

Hold point: Working Groups, Taskforce review

Landscape architect (LA) engaged based on agreed scope with budget allowances as guide

4 week procurement

Concept designs developed (with options if relevant) by LA

4‐6 weeks for each site

Cost estimate +/‐25%

Hold point: Working Groups, Taskforce review and endorsement

Detailed designs and documentation for tender by LA

8‐10 weeks for each site

Cost estimate +/‐10%

Hold point: Working Groups, Taskforce review and endorsement

Tender and contracting 5 weeks procurement

Construction 3‐6 months for Myponga + South Para /Warren assuming separate

contractors used

Notes:

1) SCAP approval is not included in the above timeframe – allow 2 months.

2) Community engagement could occur at various stages (to be advised)


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Concepts and budgets estimates

South Para Reservoir Concept and Budget Estimates

Item

Estimate (core facility)

Estimate (potential future facility) Comment

South Para Reservoir ‐ Total


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Warren Reservoir Concept and Budget Estimates

Item Estimate (core facility)


Warren Reservoir ‐ Total


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Myponga Reservoir Concept and Budget Estimates



Myponga Reservoir (main area)

Myponga Reservoir subtotal


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Myponga Lookout site

Myponga Reservoir Lookout site subtotal


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Advice – Water Quality Risk Assessment Overview & Outcomes, Water Quality Working

Group

BACKGROUND

The Opening Up Our Reservoirs Taskforce has established the Water Quality Working Group to provide expert advice to ensure that the opening of reservoirs is undertaken in a manner that will prevent any possible adverse impacts on the quality and security of South Australia’s drinking water supplies.

SA Water is regulated under the requirements of the Safe Drinking Water Act 2011 and associated Regulations. The Act and Regulations, which are administered by SA Health, outline an obligation for drinking water providers to apply the principles of the ‘Framework for Management of Drinking Water Quality’ as outlined in the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines (ADWG 2017). The Framework describes a water quality management approach based on identification of potential hazards and hazardous events, assessment of the risk presented by each and determination of appropriate preventive measures and treatment requirements to assure safety of the drinking water supply. The Framework includes a strong focus on preventing risks as close as possible to the source of occurrence.

In the near future, the ADWG is expected to incorporate numerical targets defining microbial safety to augment the existing definitions of chemical safety (public consultation completed). As part of this change the guidelines will identify a two part process of:

categorising source water quality based on activities in water catchments and reservoirs. Recreational activities are identified as an important input into this categorization.

using this categorization to determine the level of water treatment required to ensure safety of the drinking water.

SA Water have used this approach to assess the capability of existing water treatment plants to produce safe drinking water based on existing catchment characteristics. To date this has not included evaluation of the activities under consideration as part of recreational access to South Australian reservoirs.

DRINKING WATER QUALITY RISK ASSESSMENT PROCESS

At their last meeting the taskforce approved the Water Quality Group’s implementation plan which included the preparation of an assessment of the recreational activities being considered across the reservoir estate, to identify those activities that are simple to assess, and those that are more complex and will need consideration of further information to complete (e.g. additional mitigation measures, treatment etc).

The Water Quality Working Group has now completed a risk assessment (led by SA Health) to identify activities that are of low risk to water quality and can be considered for ‘quick’ introduction into Myponga, South Para and Warren reservoirs without compromising the safety of drinking water. This assessment has taken into account factors such as:


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The assessment of risk has only been applied to the impact of the activity within the immediate reservoir

reserve (and not the impact of those activities higher up in the catchment).

The risk assessment has been benchmarked against the potential impacts and mitigation of risks applied in the use of the River Murray as a source of drinking water.

DRINKING WATER QUALITY RISK ASSESSMENT OUTCOMES

The Water Quality Working Group completed risk assessments for a range of recreational activities, including passive (no direct water contact), secondary (limited water contact) and primary contact (immersion) activities.

Also note that the group assessed motorised activities (e.g. boating, 4wheel driving) for completeness, however the group understood that motorised activities are currently outside of the scope of the project.

Below are a summary of those activities that have been assessed as presenting a ‘Low’ risk to the safety of the drinking water. Only those activities that have been identified as ‘Low’ risk to the drinking water supply are recommended to the taskforce for consideration.

There are a few activities noted below with an asterisk (*) that require more work to be done to identify the characteristics of specific risk mitigation measures e.g. for Myponga defining the area where fishing from the water’s edge is permitted. This aligns with the risk assessment work foreshadowed in the Water Quality Working Group’s implementation plan that was endorsed by the Taskforce at its last meeting.


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5 - Documents affecting inter-governmental and local government relations, 4 - Documents affecting law enforcement and public safety



(note; motorised activities are currently out of scope for this project).

ATTACHMENTS

Full risk assessment outcomes (including associated on‐site control measures) are attached.

Dr Daniel Hoefel Senior Manager Water Expertise, SA Water Chair, Water Quality Working Group


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TaskforceOpening up our reservoirs


Advice ‐ Tourism and Economic Development Working Group

BACKGROUND

As an implementation group for the “Opening our Reservoirs” project, the Tourism and

Economic Development Working Group have been tasked to provide expert advice to identify

opportunities to partner with the private sector and stakeholder organisations to boost

tourism in regional areas.

This paper provides an overview of the tourism vision to be realised as part of the State

Government’s commitment to ‘opening our up reservoirs’ in South Australia, commencing

with a focus on Myponga reservoir followed by Warren and South Para reservoirs. For the

purposes of this discussion South Para and Warren reservoirs have been considered as a single

proposition.

DISCUSSION

To be bold, and to allow the opening of reservoirs to create genuine tourism offerings that

attract visitors to South Australia (as opposed to augmenting existing visits), a collective, long‐

term vision is required right from the start. Having a longer‐term tourism vision means that

development of other elements such as recreational activities can be designed to take into

consideration the pending development of tourism experiences.

Having accessible reservoirs represents a new offering for South Australia, one that will

require patience to grow both supply and demand in terms of tourism experiences. It also

offers the potential for further growing our nature‐based tourism offerings in line with the

Nature‐based Tourism strategy.

Opening the reservoirs provides opportunities to investigate innovative and boutique tourism

experiences and offerings for South Australia. This vision needs to be fit for purpose for each

of the reservoirs, aligned to their nature and to their offering.

See attachment for the detailed vision and visual aids for Myponga reservoir and South

Para/Warren.

Myponga Reservoir

The Fleurieu Peninsula has one of the highest visitor expenditure contributions of any region

in the State with Tourism Research Australia data showing annual visitor expenditure of

$440m (to March 2018). One of the key priorities moving towards 2020 and beyond, as stated

in the South Australian Regional Visitor Strategy: 2020, is to convert day trips into overnight

stays through accommodation development and improvements. Document released by the Department for Environment and Water

under the Freedom of Information Act 199171 of 141

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The development of recreational infrastructure would need to

be considerate of the proposed placement of this development to ensure preservation of the

“wilderness” feel critical to the concept.

The Taskforce is asked to endorse the commissioning of a feasibility study to identify a specific

site for the development and to further develop and refine the concept. This study would be

critical evidence to attract private investors to the opportunity.

South Para/ Warren Reservoir

South Para and Warren reservoirs lend themselves to a family‐based recreation focussed hub

and would align to the desire to upgrade, maintain and develop new hiking and cycling paths

throughout the region. This concept would have strong appeal with the intrastate market.

The Warren Reservoir is already open for activities like kayaking (limited) and fishing. This

proposal assumes that South Para can be opened to allow similar activities. Furthermore, the

opening of South Para and Warren Reservoirs to recreational activities enables links between

the Mount Crawford and Para Wirra National Parks creating an unprecedented nature‐based

experience domain across several national parks and two reservoirs.

Examples

There are many reservoirs, dams and lakes across Australia that are a water source but also

allow for recreation including swimming, boating, camping, fishing and hiking.


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FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

An assigned budget of approximately will be required undertake a feasibility

study of the Myponga concept and to develop an inspiring and viable concept to attract

private investors. Approval for this expenditure will be sought when the opening plans are

endorsed by the taskforce.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Detailed vision and visual aids for Myponga reservoir and South Para/Warren

Joanne Davidson Research and Policy Manager, SA Tourism Commission Chair, Tourism and Economic Development Working Group


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HEADLINEHEADLINE


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STARTING WITH TOURISM VISION Why start with a tourism vision?

We need to have a longer term tourism vision so that development of other elements such as recreational activities can be designed to ta~e into consideration the pending development of high end established tourism experiences.

To be bold, and to allow the opening of reservoirs to create genuine tourism offerings that attract visitors to South Australia (as opposed to augmenting existing visits) requires a long term vision right from the start.

This vision needs to be fit for purpose for each of the reservoirs, aligned to their nature and to their offering.

The purpose of this document is to outline the tourism vision for each of the main reservoirs being considered for the initial opening phase: Nldponga and South Para/Warren.

For the purposes of this discussion South Para and Warren reservoirs have been considered as a single proposition.

• ADELAIDE SOUTH AUSTRAL!.-,


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MYPONGA RESERVOIR


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MYPONGA RESERVOIR An opportunity for the development of:

Note: On water activity is not critical to this development. Forestry management would need to be a consideration.

ADELAIDE SOUTH AUSTRAL!.-,


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MYPONGA RESERVOIR Mljponga Reservoir offers a stunning environment with. established forestr"lj and sweeping views from elevated locations.

In addition to th.e natural environment surrounding th.e reservoir, th.e area h.as added advantages offering valuable linKages. Th.e most notable are proximit"lj to th.e Nan Hai PuT uo Temple of Australia and th.e main route to Cape Jervis and th.e Kangaroo Island ferrlj. Th.e M

Privac"lj and peace will be an important element of th.is tourism development. A site needs to be identified so th.at th.e development of recreational activities at th.e reservoir can taKe th.e required space into account. It is not anticipated th.at non-petrol activit"lj on th.e water would detract from th.e privac"lj of th.e experience, but walKing and Cljcling trails would need to consider th.e proposed location of th.e development.

• ADELAIDE SOUTH AUSTRAL!.-,


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7 - Documents affecting business affairs, 9 - Internal Working Document

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MYPONGA RESERVOIR Progressing th.is concept requires th.e conduct of o feosibilitlj studlj os well os site identification

Th.e reservoir could be opened for oth.er octivitlj wh.ile th.is process is undertaKen although. proximitlj to th.e target site would h.ove be in th.e design consideration.

It is important to note th.ot th.is proposal would benefit from o focal visitor point in tv11jpongo township.

. Similorl'=J, recreational dolj-trip stljle

octivitlj ot th.e site would also benefit from such. o development.

Trxlt~_l1Z..O!Wo

~::.:~;::

• ADELAIDE SOUTH AU STRAL!.-,


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7 - Documents affecting business affairs, 5 - Documents affecting inter-governmental and local government relations7 - Documents affecting business affairs, 5 - Documents affecting inter-governmental and local government relations

SOUTH PARA/ WARREN RESERVOIR


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SOUTH PARA/ WARREN RESERVOIR The South Para and Warren reservoirs lend themselves to a famil~ based recreation focussed activit~ hub.

The concept for South Para and Warren does assume that water access is permissible.

ADELAIDE SOUTH AUSTRAliA


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SOUTH PARA/ WARREN RESERVOIR This concept would have strong appeal with South Australian residents. It would also have a secondar'd focus on an interstate marKet to extend Length of sta'::j, not as a reason to visit.

Development requires infrastructure development to facilitate th.e t'::jpes of experiences that could be fostered over time as demand increases. It is anticipated that th.e initial opening of th.e reservoir will demonstrate th.e demand which. will subsequentl'::j lead to interest from commercial operators. As such. a staged long term approach. is best to full'::J develop th.e site.

Once demand is demonstrated, commercial activitlj providers should be invited to set up at the site and access and regulations should focus on maKing this eas\j and sustainable.

It is envisaged that this reservoir can provide a full suite of outdoor activities.

It is important to note that th.e opening of South. Para and Warren creates a linKage between th.e Mount Crawford Forest Reserve and Para Wirra Conservation ParKs. This creates th.e potential for a huge outdoors recreation area. Vision for th.e two reservoirs (and th.e Barossa Reservoir) should be in th.e context of this broader opportunit\j. •

ADELAIDE SOUTH AUSTRAliA


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WAY FORWARD


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PROGRESSING THE VISION

SeeK debate and endorsement from the Tourism and Economic Development WorKing Group.

Pitch the concept to the TasKforce and asK for endorsement of the approach.

WorK with the other Working Groups to ensure that consideration is given to these concepts in development of other recreational and infrastructure developments.

Ensure that this tldpe of vision is incorporated in to the communications about the opening of reservoirs and realistic expectations are set.

Conduct a feasibilitlj studlJ for the proposed Mldponga concept.

Seek the opening of South Para/ Warren for on-water activitld in alignment with this proposaL

• ADELAIDE SOUTH AUSTRAliA


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KEY MESSAGES


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KEY MESSAGES

The opening up of the reservoirs for recreational purposes is on opportunitld to enhance experiential nature based tourism offerings in South Australia. catering to both interstate and intrastate consumers.

It offers the potential for further growing our nature-based tourism offerings in line with the Nature Based Tourism Plan

Having accessible reservoirs represents a new offering for South Australia. one that will require patience to grow both suppllj and demand in terms of tourism experiences.

Opening the reservoirs provides opportunities to investigate innovative and boutique tourism experiences and offerings for South Australia.

As interest and engagement with recreational activities at reservoirs grow. we will looK to identiflj longterm viable tourism offerings to build on the recreational opportunities.

• ADELAIDE SOUTH AUSTRAliA


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Contact: Justin Holmes, Project Manager Opening Reservoirs, DEW on 0467 798 979 or [email protected]



Agenda Item 5 – Pathway to opening reservoirs

RECOMMENDATIONS

That the taskforce:

1. Note the revised Pathway to Opening Reservoirs in Attachment 1.

2. Note the draft opening concept plans for Myponga, South Para and Warren reservoirs in Attachments 2 and 3, noting:

a. Further amendment to these plans will likely be necessary subject to the engagement process directed by the Minister (see agenda item 4); and

b. Final draft opening plans will be presented to the taskforce for endorsement prior to being forwarded to the Minister for approval.

3. Note advice from taskforce working groups in Attachments 4‐6 that has informed the development of draft opening plans for Myponga, South Para and Warren reservoirs.

4. Approve the following funding allocations to support the continued delivery of working group implementation plans.

a. An allocation of up to to begin the recreational infrastructure

feasibility and concept phase for Myponga, South Para and Warren reservoirs. b. An allocation of

to complete detailed risk assessments required to inform selected recreation activities at Myponga, South Para and Barossa reservoirs.

BACKGROUND

At its last meeting, the taskforce noted the pathway to opening Myponga, South Para and

Warren Reservoirs. Following that meeting individual working groups have continued delivery

of their implementation plans to support the development of opening plans and the opening

of reservoirs.

DISCUSSION

Pathway to Opening Reservoirs

A diagram showing a revised pathway to opening Myponga, South Para and Warren reservoirs

is provided in Attachment 1 for consideration by the taskforce. This document has been

refined since the last taskforce meeting to reflect progress towards the development of

reservoir opening plans.


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The revised pathway also foreshadows a level of engagement with the community and

stakeholders prior to the release of reservoir opening plans, which remains subject to further

consideration by the Minister (see item four on this agenda).

The revised pathway to opening Myponga, South Para and Warren reservoirs continues to

reflect the commitment for the first stage of opening to occur by 30 June 2018. In addition to

the development of concept draft opening plans, the Public Access and Engagement Working

Group will now hold a meeting in the coming weeks to develop a detailed overview of all steps

that will occur over the coming months to achieve this milestone.

Draft opening plans for Myponga, South Para and Warren reservoirs

Concept draft opening plans have been prepared for Myponga, South Para and Warren

reservoirs based on initial advice from taskforce and its working groups. Copies of the concept

draft plans are provided in Attachments 2 and 3, and the initial advice provided by working

groups is summarised in Attachments 4 – 6.

These draft plans have been prepared based on the following principles, prepared with the

Public Access and Engagement Working Group.

a) Opening plans will have a short shelf‐life. They are a tool for a moment in time that:

Outlines a vision for an individual reservoir and demonstrates how the

Government’s election commitment will be delivered at that reservoir.

Identifies what recreational activities might be appropriate at the reservoir in

the short and medium term, based on expert advice from the working groups.

Frames and opens the conversation with the community and stakeholders about

the opening of an individual reservoir.

b) The plan acts as an authorising document that allows individual working groups to

begin more details investigations into recreational access at each reservoir. This

includes:

Detailed recreation activity and infrastructure planning (including cross‐tenure

recreational planning).

Beginning detailed water quality risk assessments to inform the necessary

controls that will allow certain types of recreation activities to occur on a

reservoir.

c) Opening plans do not:

Provide a framework for the long‐term management of recreation at reservoirs.

They are not a reservoir or recreational access management plan.

Provide for how much of the project budget will be invested into infrastructure

at each reservoir.

Myponga Reservoir Opening Plan (Attachment 2)

The opening of Myponga Reservoir provides the opportunity to introduce a range of land‐

based recreational activities in the short term.


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The open plan for Myponga Reservoir presents a vision that includes a day‐visitor picnic area,

walking trails and a refurbished lookout over the dam wall.

On advice from the SA Tourism Commission and the Tourism and Economic Development

Working Group,

South Para and Warren Reservoirs Opening Plan (Attachment 3)

Opening the reservoirs is only a small part of the vision outlined in the opening plan for South

Para and Warren Reservoirs. The opening plan presents an interconnected, cross‐tenure

network of adventure recreational activities, including camping, fishing, walking and riding,

across a continuous 12,200 hectare landscape that includes reservoirs, national parks, and

plantation forests.

A range of land‐based recreational activities could occur across the reservoirs in the short

term. A greater Kayaking experience could also be facilitated at Warren Reservoir in the short

term, where shore and kayak/canoe bases fishing is already permitted.

Finalising the opening plans

As noted in item four on this agenda, a discussion paper has been prepared to inform a round‐

table with the Minister for Environment and Water that will confirm the engagement

approach to be adopted for the project. Further amendment to these opening plans will likely

be necessary, subject to the engagement process requested by the Minister.

With advice provided at this taskforce meeting, and following the engagement process

requested by the Minister, final opening plans will be prepared for endorsement by the

taskforce, prior to being forwarding to the Minister for approval.


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Funding to support delivery of working group implementation plans

To support the continued delivery of working group implementation plans to inform the

opening of reservoirs, it is recommended that the taskforce approve:

a) An allocation of to begin

the recreational infrastructure feasibility and concept phase for Myponga, South Para

and Warren reservoirs.

Attachment 4 provides an overview of the recreational infrastructure planning

framework established by the working group, including this next phase of infrastructure

planning. The level of community engagement that will occur to support this phase of

infrastructure development is subject to further direction from the Minister for

Environment and Water.

As noted in the framework, the taskforce will approve the outcomes from the feasibility

and concept phase, prior to beginning the next phase of infrastructure plan.

b) An allocation of

to support detailed risk assessments required to inform selected recreation

activities at Myponga, South Para and Barossa reservoirs. This research will help inform

appropriate on‐site controls required for recreation at each reservoir.

Two trains of research are proposed:

1) Reservoir modelling (and Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment) of South Para

and Barossa which will lead to identification of appropriate zones for on water and

shoreline fishing (amongst other controls) activities at those reservoirs.

This research will be led by SA Water in collaboration with the Water Quality Working

Group. The proposal seeks funding for components of the research that require SA Water

to purchase goods or service.


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5 - Documents affecting inter-governmental and local government relations, 7 - Documents affecting business affairs, 16 - Documents concerning the operations of agencies




ATTACHMENTS

Attachment 1 – Revised pathway to opening reservoirs

Attachment 2 – Draft reservoir opening plan – Myponga Reservoir: A boost for tourism

on the Fleurieu Peninsula

Attachment 3 – Draft reservoir opening plan – South Para and Warren Reservoir: South

Australia’s newest outdoor adventure destination

Attachment 4 – Advice from the Recreation and Infrastructure Working Group to

support the development of reservoir opening plans

Attachment 5 – Advice from the Water Quality Working Group to support the

development of reservoir opening plans

Attachment 6 – Tourism and Economic Development Working Group to support the

development of reservoir opening plans



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Contact: Justin Holmes, Project Manager, Opening Reservoirs, DEW on 0467 798 979 or [email protected]



Agenda Item 6 – Discussion paper: key project elements

RECOMMENDATIONS

That the taskforce:

1. Consider key elements of the project outlined in this discussion paper and provide recommendations for progressing this work.

BACKGROUND

Through delivery of the government’s election commitment a few key project elements have

been identified that require discussion with the taskforce to inform the next phase of work.

DISCUSSION

Opening reservoirs

The government has committed to investigating the opening of 16 reservoirs across the state

for recreation. These are:

Metropolitan – Happy Valley and Hope Valley

Mount Lofty Ranges – Barossa, South Para, Warren, Little Para, Millbrook, Kangaroo

Creek and Mount Bold

Fleurieu – Myponga and Hindmarsh Valley

Mid North – Beetaloo, Baroota and Bundaleer

KI – Middle River

Eyre Peninsula – Todd River

A map of these reservoirs is in Attachment 1 (previously provided to the taskforce).

The taskforce and its working groups have focused its initial effort on delivering individual

working group implementation plans to inform the opening of Myponga, South Para &

Warren reservoirs by 30 June 2019. Further consideration can now be given to the

development of opening plans for additional reservoirs.

In parallel, some issues have been identified which may inform the extent to which recreation

can occur in the short and long term across other reservoirs. These issues include:


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While continuing to support the opening of Myponga, South Para & Warren reservoirs,

consideration can now be given to investigating the opening of additional reservoirs, the

order in which reservoir opening plans will be prepared, and the order in which reservoirs will

be opened during the term of this government.

The extent to which additional reservoirs can be opened will also be informed by allocation

of the project budget and the capital expenditure required at each site to support recreational

activities and the mitigation of risk, and the resources required to support the ongoing

management of recreation.

Budget

Infrastructure will be required at each reservoir to support recreation and to ensure a positive

visitor experience. In addition recreational infrastructure is required to mitigating risks

associated with an activity on drinking water safety.

The Government has committed $5 million to open reservoirs. The Recreation and

Infrastructure Working Group has provided the following indicative costs for basic

infrastructure to support the opening of South Para, Warren & Myponga reservoirs:

South Para Reservoir ‐

Warren Reservoir ‐

Myponga Reservoir ‐

These costs are based on the construction of basic infrastructure only that will deliver the

early access components of the Government’s election commitment, provide a positive visitor


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experience and meet all SA Health requirements to maintain drinking water safety

requirements. These costs will be refined during the concept and feasibility phases of

infrastructure development. A breakdown of these costs was provided as an attachment to

item 5 on this taskforce agenda).

In addition to these establishment costs, additional resources will be required to support the

ongoing management of recreation on reservoirs. These costs are subject to the development

of a reservoir management framework (discussed below) which is yet to be scoped.

Election commitment funding

In addition to the opening of South Para, Myponga and Warren reservoirs the Government’s

allocation of $5 million will support the opening of additional reservoirs across the state. The

allocation of project funding to support the opening of reservoirs will be determined on

consideration of questions including:

It is anticipated that some reservoirs will cost more to open than others. In addition, the type

of infrastructure required to support an activity could be scaled up or down depending on the

quality of visitor experience that is provided. For example, walking trails could be provided on

existing fire access tracks at little cost, or a quality trail experience could be provided through

the construction of a new dedicated well planned trail.

Ongoing resourcing requirements

Experience from SEQ Water in Queensland, and management of national parks in South

Australia, has reinforced the need for an ongoing resource allocation to support the

management of recreation of reservoirs.

With the development of draft concept opening plans for Myponga, South Para and Warren

reservoirs, consideration can now be given to a funding/resourcing model that can support

the development of a State‐wide ongoing reservoir management framework.

Reservoir management framework

At its last meeting, the taskforce noted that the Public Access and Engagement Working

Group had begun a review of the policy and legislative framework required to support

delivery of the government’s commitment in the short and long term. This work will progress

to support the opening of the first reservoir by 30 June 2019.

The draft opening plans prepared for Myponga, South Para and Warren provide an indicative

overview of what recreation on reservoirs will look like across the State. In parallel to the


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policy and legislation review, consideration can now be given to requirements for the

operation management of recreation on reservoirs. This includes:

Ongoing engagement and communication requirements

Strategic and operational recreation and land management support and advice,

including individual reservoir management planning.

A reservoir management framework may require the support of multiple state Government,

local government, non‐government organisations and private sector. Within state

Government, this framework may include:

SA Water

Department of Environment and Water

Department of Primary Industries and Regions SA (from a fishing and forestry

management perspective)

Consideration can be given to what the role of various organisations will be to support the

short and long term management of reservoirs.

ATTACHMENT

1. Map of reservoirs.



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Taskforce Working Group – Water Quality Terms of Reference

Purpose

The Opening Up Our Reservoirs Taskforce has established the Water Quality Working Group to provide expert advice to ensure that the opening of reservoirs is undertaken with great care to prevent any possible adverse impacts on the quality and security of South Australia’s drinking water.

Membership

SA Water, including Daniel Hoefel, Senior Manager Water Expertise as Chair

Department for Environment and Water

Department of Health and Wellbeing

Environment Protection Authority

Governance

The Working Group will meet regularly to ensure that matters associated with the opening of reservoirs are strategically identified, worked through and reported to the Taskforce.

The working group may consult any other individuals or organisations as required.

Chairs of each of the working groups established by the Taskforce will meet to share information and coordinate advice for the Taskforce. This meeting will be led by the Taskforce Coordinator, Justin Holmes.

Scope and deliverables

Undertake an assessment of each of the recreational activities proposed for reservoirs to identify possible risks to water quality within a reservoir (may be different for individual reservoirs) and mitigation strategies to assure drinking water quality, including water treatment options.

Undertake an assessment of each reservoir to identify what recreational activities can occur without requiring additional water treatment. This must include assessing parts of reservoir land where risks may be lower or non‐existent.

Identify SA Water water management infrastructure and any requirements (including statutory requirements) to restrict public access (i.e. major hazard facilities).

Assess the impact of previous and current reservoir water management practices on potential recreational activities, including on fishing to

determine if fish will be safe to eat.

Give consideration to the impact of algal blooms and recreational activities, including public perceptions.

Providing advice on how recreational access to reservoirs interstate has been undertaken to ensure no adverse outcomes to drinking water quality.

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Provide advice on capital works (including budget) required to assure drinking water quality as a result of the introduction of recreational activities on reservoirs.

Develop an implementation plan for endorsement by the Taskforce.

Provide advice on a communications and engagement plan, consistent with the overarching plan, for endorsement the Public Access and Engagement Working Group.

Consider the impact on water courses downstream of new recreational activities.

Consider security/terrorism risks.

Recommend ongoing water quality reservoir monitoring required to assure public health of drinking water and those recreating.

The Taskforce may assign other deliverables to the working group.

Implementation Plan

The working group has developed a brief implementation plan for the deliverables in this terms of reference, including specific achievable milestones for 2018/19 and an overview of what will be delivered in the medium term (by the end of 2021). The plan includes information required from other working groups.

The working group has provided a copy of its implementation plan to the Taskforce for endorsement.

It is recognised that delivery of the government’s commitment, and the work of each working group, will be an iterative process. Accordingly, group implementation plans will continue to evolve. Changes to implementation plans will be provided to the taskforce.

John Schutz Chief Executive, Department for Environment and Water Chair, Opening Our Reservoirs Taskforce Date:


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Taskforce Working Group – Public Access and Engagement Terms of Reference

Purpose

The Opening Up Our Reservoirs Taskforce has established the Public Access and Engagement Working Group to provide it with expert advice in relation to providing public access to reservoirs and engaging the community and stakeholders.

Membership

Department for Environment and Water, including Mike Williams, Regional Director, SA Murray Darling Basin as Chair

SA Water

Department of Transport and Infrastructure

Department of Treasury and Finance

SA Police

Governance

The Working Group will meet regularly to ensure that matters associated with the opening of reservoirs are strategically identified, worked through and reported to the Taskforce.

The working group may consult any other individuals or organisations as required.

Chairs of each of the working groups established by the Taskforce will meet to share information and coordinate advice for the Taskforce. This meeting will be led by the Taskforce Coordinator, Justin Holmes.

Scope and deliverables

Provide advice to the Taskforce on the staged approach to opening all reservoirs (including timelines). This includes prioritising the opening of reservoirs, or parts of reservoirs. The working group may develop a decision‐making framework to determine these priorities.

Develop an overarching project plan to deliver the Government’s commitment.

Develop and implement an overarching communication and engagement plan, and the coordination of the communication and engagement plans across each working group. The group will also lead the development of communication and engagement plans for the opening of individual reservoirs.

Provide advice on the legislative and policy framework required to facilitate public access to reservoirs and the provision of a range of recreational activities, both on land and water.

Provide advice on the future management framework for the recreational use of reservoirs. This includes management of public access and recreation, infrastructure (including management and ownership of recreation assets), water quality, environmental matters and monitoring.

Providing advice on how interstate reservoirs have been opened and how they are managed.

In consultation with each of the other working groups, provide advice on the expenditure


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of the project budget, and any additional funding or resources that might support the Government’s commitment.

The Taskforce may assign other deliverables to the working group.

Implementation Plan

The working group has developed a brief implementation plan for the deliverables in this terms of reference, including specific achievable milestones for 2018/19 and an overview of what will be delivered in the medium term (by the end of 2021). The plan includes information required from other working groups.

The working group has provided a copy of its implementation plan to the Taskforce for endorsement.

It is recognised that delivery of the government’s commitment, and the work of each working group, will be an iterative process. Accordingly, group implementation plans will continue to evolve. Changes to implementation plans will be provided to the taskforce.

John Schutz Chief Executive, Department for Environment and Water Chair, Opening Our Reservoirs Taskforce

Date:


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Taskforce Working Group – Fishing in Reservoirs Implementation Plan The Opening Up Our Reservoirs Taskforce has established the Fishing in Reservoirs Working Group to provide it with expert advice in relation to stocking of fish and fishing in reservoirs.

Deliverables Actions Lead Due Risk and opportunities Information required from other groups

1. Provide advice on technical matters related to the stocking of aquatic organisms in reservoirs. This includes identifying species of fish that may be appropriate to stock in individual reservoirs.

a. Develop a background paper for internal use on the range of potential fishing experiences and the efficacy of stocking in reservoirs.

b. Develop a matrix table to identify candidate fish species (both requiring stocking and already present) and potential fishing experiences at the reservoirs in scope of the commitment.

PIRSA Draft due 31 January 2019 30 June 2019

RiskSome species may not be suitable to be stocked in some reservoirs Opportunities A reservoir may already have fish species available for recreational fishing Informing the community about the different species in the reservoirs (including those to be stocked) and the potential fishing experiences

Information about each reservoir being opened (i.e. water management (past and future operations), water quality, depth, habitat, fish species, copper sulphate treatment record, bathymetry) Information about planned acceptable activities and infrastructure availability to assist in assessing options for different fishing experiences.

2. Provide technical advice through the Taskforce to the Executive Director, Fisheries and Aquaculture as the Delegate of the Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development, to inform decision making on any applications to release aquatic organisms into South Australian reservoirs under section 78(2) or fishing regulations under the Fisheries Management Act 2007.

a. Undertake technical assessment of applications to stock fish in reservoirs consistent with the PIRSA Policy to Release Aquatic Resources, including undertaking ecologically sustainable development risk assessment for environmental/ecosystem, biosecurity/genetics, and social/ economic risks.

b. Provide recommendations on applications through the taskforce, to the Minister or Delegate.

PIRSA Ongoing RiskProponents may seek support for funding of fish stocking activities through the working group or taskforce Insufficient information to determine the suitability of the reservoir for stocking fish for recreational fishing purposes Advice is required on water management practices that may impact on stocking Adverse environmental events (eg Algal blooms) impacts to fish being released. Creating confusion in the community around the release of native fish that are not endemic to a catchment (i.e. Murray Cod is a native fish, but is endemic to the Murray River not other parts of SA)

Interaction of stocking on water management practices.

The concern that fish stocking is not required and a waste of funds when other species a already present in the reservoir.

Opportunities There are recreational species currently available in the reservoirs being opened. Stocking of native fish species in reservoirs is recognised by recreational fishers to enhance

Information about when each of the Reservoirs are opening. Information about each reservoir being opened (i.e. water management, water quality, depth, habitat, fish species.) Linkages to tourism and economic development opportunities


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recreational fishing experiences, which will provide a diversity of economic benefits. Promote through National Gone Fishing Day

3. Provide technical advice on management of fishing in reservoirs. This includes appropriate regulation of fishing (i.e. catch and release, fishing seasons, size, bag and boat limits).

a. Develop a background paper on current management arrangements of fish species in South Australia and management arrangements of fish species in reservoirs.

b. Develop a matrix table of proposed management arrangements for fishing in reservoirs. Consideration should be given to consistency with current recreational fishing management arrangements (if possible) to avoid any confusion.

PIRSA Draft due 31 January 2019 30 June 2019

RiskFisheries management arrangements in reservoirs not consistent across reservoirs or between reservoirs and non‐reservoir fisheries creating confusion amongst anglers. Inadequate compliance and monitoring resources to effectively manage the fishing activities. Not meeting community expectations in regard to the fishing opportunity Restrictions on access arrangements for fishing may be different in each reservoir Opportunities Complementary actions to support recreational fishing

Consideration of infrastructure for recreational fishing purposes; i.e. jetties, toilets, boat ramps Restrictions on the areas fishing may occur in each reservoir Access arrangements (including permits etc.) and timing for the Reservoirs being opened Habitat restoration opportunities

4. Provide advice to the DEW Communications and Engagement Coordinator to inform the development of a communications, engagement and media plan that will guide the opportunities for community involvement and determine media announcements. Ensure any media opportunities or messaging are channeled through to the DEW Media Advisor allocated to this project.

a. Review the overarching communications, engagement and media plan

b. Inform key messages relating to Fishing in Reservoirs working group

c. Review key messages relating to the whole of the project.

Working October/ November

RiskThe community being provided information about recreational fishing in reservoirs during the process. Inconsistent information/messaging being provided If media articles are driven through the working group members it could be misaligned with the overarching key messages of the project The working group members engage with the media as ‘spokespeople’ for the project when they are not. Opportunities Key messages about recreational fishing in reservoirs will be agreed and consistent Information about fisheries management of wild stocks and management of reservoirs can be provided Provide the community information about the difference between fish that are endemic to a catchment and native fish to South Australia

The Communications and Engagement Coordinator will work with each working group to support the development of communications and engagement plan for their group, consistent with this overarching plan. PIRSA will work with DEW media to ensure media opportunities are appropriately managed.


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The community will have an opportunity to provide input into the development of recreational fishing in reservoirs


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Agenda Item 7: Project management

RECOMMENDATIONS

That the Taskforce:

1. Approve the revised Water Quality Working Group Terms of Reference in Attachment 1.

2. Approve amendments to the Terms of Reference for the Public Access and Engagement Working Group to allow for a representative from SA Police to join the group. A copy of the revised Terms of Reference is in Attachment 2.

3. Approve the Fishing in Reservoirs Working Group Implementation Plan in Attachment 3.

4. Note the review and development of an updated project plan by Justin Holmes and the Public Access and Engagement Working Group.

BACKGROUND

The taskforce has previously developed a strategy to support the opening of reservoirs

a project plan was prepared to

support the strategy and delivery of the government’s commitment to open reservoirs.

This briefing outlines a series of recommendations to support the ongoing administration of

the project in accordance with this strategy and project plan.

DISCUSSION

Water Quality Working Group Terms of Reference

The Water Quality Working Group has recommended that the taskforce add the following

deliverables to its terms of reference to support the provision of fulsome advice on

maintaining the safety and security of South Australia’s drinking water:

A copy of the revised terms of reference, including these additional points is in Attachment 1

for approval.


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Public Access and Engagement Terms of Reference & meeting with SA Police

To support this approach, Senior Sergeant Brendon Beh with SA Police’s Security

Preparedness Unit Coordinator, has been invited to join the Public Access and Engagement

Working Group. It is recommended that the working group’s terms of reference be updated

to reflect this change. A copy of the revised terms of reference is provided in Attachment 2

for approval.

Fishing in Reservoirs Working Group Implementation Plan

The Terms of Reference for the Fishing in Reservoirs Working Group was approved by John

Schutz, on behalf of the taskforce on 24 September 2018. Subsequently, the working group

has met and prepared an implementation plan for the deliverables in its terms of reference.

This plan is consistent with plans prepared by other working groups. A copy of the

implementation plan is in Attachment 3 for approval.

Project Plan

A project plan was prepared in August 2018

The project has now progress through its concept phase and the

delivery of working group implementation plans, leading the development of concept draft

opening plans for Myponga, South Para and Warren.

In addition, a draft communications, engagement and media plan has now been prepared and

further direction on the engagement strategy and approach will be sought from the Minister

for Environment and Water (see agenda item 4).

With this work having progressed, the next phase of project planning can begin. This phase

will include the capturing of high level project risks and mitigation measures, detailed budget

planning, revised project implementation timelines for the whole project and the

development of a monitoring and assessment framework for key elements of the project.


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Justin Holmes will lead a review and update of the project plan with the Public Access and

Engagement Working Group to reflect this next phase of work, preparatory to reporting back

to the taskforce.

ATTACHMENTS

Attachment 1 – Revised Water Quality Working Group Terms of Reference

Attachment 2 – Revised Public Access and Engagement Working Group Terms of

Reference

Attachment 3 – Fishing in Reservoirs Working Group Implementation Plan



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Meeting Information

Date and time 27 June 2019 10am – 12pm

Location Level 10 (Room 10.6), 81 Waymouth Street Adelaide

Attendees



Mark Gobbie – A/ Chief Executive, SA Water

Sean Sloan – Executive Director, Fisheries and Aquaculture, Department of Primary Industries and

Regions (PIRSA)

Taskforce support

Grant Pelton – A/Group Executive Director, Parks and Regions, DEW

Justin Holmes – Project Manager, Opening Reservoirs, DEW

Tara Hage – Program Manager, Reservoirs, SA Water



John O’Malley – Coordinator Strategic Projects, DEW (Recreation and Infrastructure Working Group)


Apologies

Ben Tuffnell – Executive Director, Corporate Affairs, SATC

Joanne Davidson – Research and Policy Manager, SATC


Tony Braxton‐Smith – Chief Executive, Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure

James Crocker – Senior Manager Wastewater Expertise and Environment, SA Water




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Agenda Item Time Discussion item Responsible

1 10:00 Acknowledgement of Country and welcome John


people and that we respect their spiritual relationship with their country. We also acknowledge the Kaurna people

as the custodians of the Adelaide region and that their cultural and heritage beliefs are still as important to the

living Kaurna people today.

2 10:05 Adoption of previous minutes and review of actions

(previous actions provided at the end of this agenda)

Minutes John

3 10:15 Reservoirs opening in 2019:

Myponga Reservoir (Stage Two)

South Para, Warren and Barossa Reservoirs complex

Bundaleer Reservoir

Paper Justin

4 10:45 Paper John

5 11:15 Regulation and management of fishing in reservoirs Paper Sean

6 11:45 Papers for noting (discussion by exception)

Update: Opening Myponga Reservoir

Safe Drinking Water Act External Audit Outcome

Paper

Paper

Tara

Dan

7 11:50 Other business John

12:00 Close

Next meeting – 14 August 2019


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/ Item



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Contact: Justin Holmes, Project Manager Opening Reservoirs on 0467 798 979

Taskforce Opening our reservoirs

Meeting Paper Meeting Date: 27 June 2019

AGENDA ITEM 3 – OPENING RESERVOIRS IN 2019

RECOMMENDATIONS

That the taskforce:

1. Approve in principle the scope of work identified for the Stage Two opening of Myponga Reservoir.

2. Approve in principle the concept plan for the Stage One opening of the South Para, Warren and Barossa Reservoirs complex in Attachment 1, noting that:

a. The final scope of work may be refined based on the Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment and the development of the trails plan.

b. Final concept plans (including trails plan) will be provided to the taskforce for noting.

3. Approve in principle the scope of work for opening Bundaleer Reservoir, noting that as a result of the estimated costs, the scope of recreational access to the reservoir will be reconsidered.

4. Approve the allocation of up to to SA Water for the detailed design, documentation and development application (planning) phase for infrastructure and site works to support the opening of reservoirs identified in the recommendations above.

5. Note that, subject to the strategy for seeking additional project funding (discussed in Item 4 on this meeting agenda), and more detailed costing advice available following the planning phase (noted above), consideration may be given to revising the scope and timing of work for opening reservoirs in 2019.

BACKGROUND


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Opening reservoirs in 2019 for fishing is subject to the taskforce’s consideration of a

framework for the regulation and management of fishing in item 5 on this agenda.

DISCUSSION

Myponga Reservoir – Stage Two

The taskforce has previously noted activities that will form part of the Stage Two opening of

Myponga Reservoir, based on risk assessments completed by the Water Quality Working

Group. Accordingly, the scope of works for Stage Two is provided below for the taskforce’s

in principle approval.

a) The introduction of shore‐based fishing at the eastern end of the reservoir.

This activity is subject to resolution of the regulation and management of fishing

across reservoirs, the reservoir water level rising to a suitable level to allow the

activity to occur, and implementation of necessary risk management controls

(including site works).

Recognising that the water level at the eastern end of the reservoir is highly variable,

risks associated with fishing when the water level is very low must be considered.

Subject to this risk assessment, consideration may be given to introducing ‘seasonal

fishing’ that allows for fishing only when the water level is at an appropriate height.

The Water Quality Working Group are currently quantifying any risk that shoreline

fishing may have on the taste of drinking water. Preliminary field experiments have

shown that wading through the benthic algal ‘mats’ at the shore‐line causes them to

become suspended as clumps in the water. The fate of these clumps is currently

unknown, but has the potential to impart an earthy/musty taste on the drinking

water, which SA Water’s customers particularly dislike. The Working Group will

continue to assess this risk and if required, recommend risk mitigation controls to the

taskforce. This risk does not relate to drinking water safety.

b) Improve the recreational activities introduced in stage one.

This work will focus on improving the established trails, including drainage issues that

have occurred since opening. Costs associated with this work are to be determined.

Since the reservoir’s opening, SA Water has continued to engage with the community and

monitor how people use the reservoir. This scope of works aligns with the outcomes of that

engagement process.

The taskforce has allocated towards the opening of Myponga Reservoir, which began

in April 2019. The final cost of the Stage One opening was . It is anticipated that

the identified scope of work for the Stage Two opening can be delivered within the

remaining project budget.


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The South Para, Warren and Barossa Reservoirs complex

Opening South Para, Warren and Barossa Reservoirs will create an interconnected, cross‐

tenure network of adventure recreational activities, including camping, fishing, walking,

cycling and kayaking. These activities will occur across a continuous 12,200 hectare

landscape that includes reservoirs, national parks and plantation forests (Forestry SA land).

n

In parallel, the Recreation and Infrastructure Working Group is preparing a more detailed

trails plan that will create an adventure trails network, connecting reservoirs (including

Barossa Reservoir), national parks, plantation forests and nearby townships, particularly

Williamstown. This trails plan, including delivery costs, will be provided to the taskforce.


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The taskforce have set aside to support the reservoirs’ opening. From that budget,

has already been allocated to support the development of the QMRA and stocking

of fish in South Para Reservoir. Subject to refinement of the concept plan and development

of the trails plan, the final scope of work may also need to be refined to align with project

budget.

Bundaleer Reservoir

Bundaleer Reservoir currently provides for a basic level of access for shore‐based fishing,

with a permit from RecFish SA. The taskforce has previously noted the opportunity to


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expanded recreational access at the reservoir to include bushwalking, cycling, picnicking and

kayaking (including fishing from a kayak). The taskforce has allocated to support

the introduction of these activities.

Preliminary advice from SA Water is that additional site works are required at the reservoir

to protect SA Water infrastructure which were not initially anticipated.

With

this advice, the scope of recreational access to the reservoir will be reconsidered to align

more closely with the allocated budget.

Detailed design, documentation and development application phase

Within principle approval of the scope of work identified above, it is recommended that the

taskforce approve an allocation of up to to SA Water for the detailed design,

documentation and development application phase. This phase is preparatory to the

development of infrastructure and site works and will refine costs associated with opening

each reservoir. This planning phase will include:

Site survey, drawing and geotechnical investigations.

Investigation of the structural integrity of existing structures at reservoirs (i.e. old

bridges).

The development application process, where required.

ATTACHMENT

Justin Holmes Project Manager, Opening Reservoir Department for Environment and Water


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Contact: Keith Rowling, General Manager, Fisheries Policy and Management Unit, PIRSA on 0437 675 573



Agenda Item 5 – Management of Fishing in Reservoirs

RECOMMENDATIONS

That the taskforce:

3. Consider that the public be allowed to fish for free in reservoirs opened up for fishing.

4. Approve allocation of from the Opening Up Our Reservoir budget (including the from the South Para reservoir stocking activity) to be used to pre‐

purchase fingerlings for 2019/20 stocking activities and that a annual budget is set aside by the Taskforce to support fish stocking into priority reservoirs in 2020/21.

BACKGROUND

At the taskforce meeting in February 2019, the taskforce endorsed a schedule for opening a

number of reservoirs for recreational activities, including fishing. The Department of Primary

Industries and Regions SA (PIRSA) is the government’s authority in relation to fishing. PIRSA’s

role in the taskforce and in leading the Fishing in Reservoirs Working Group reflects its

leadership role in providing advice to the Taskforce on the stocking of fish and fishing in

reservoirs.

Over the period from 2016 to 2019 PIRSA has supported the stocking of ~300,000 fish into

the Warren, Baroota, Bundaleer and Beetaloo reservoirs. This fish stocking has cost a total of

which was provided by the former Government recreational fishing grant scheme.

The PIRSA Fisheries and Aquaculture Division has undertaken ecological risk assessments on

the fish stocking activities in these reservoirs in line with the PIRSA Policy on the Release of

Aquatic Organisms and the Executive Director of Fisheries has provided authorisations to

RecFish SA to allow for the fish stocking to occur.


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Decisions are still to be made regarding fishing access at many reservoirs in the state, but it is

likely a number of other reservoirs will be opened for fishing. Not all reservoirs will need to

be stocked in the immediate future as a number of reservoirs have already been stocked with

fish, including Warren, Bundaleer and Baroota reservoirs. Some of these may need stocking

programs to be developed depending on fish species currently in the reservoirs and

aspirations of recreational fishers regarding their experiences.

Reservoir fisheries are generally ‘put and take’ fisheries, and the fish stocks are generally not

managed to be self sustaining fisheries, meaning fish need to be stocked in the water

periodically to replenish the fish removed through fishing activities. This also reduces the

need for regulatory intervention for the sustainable management of the fish stocks.

Regulation is more to deliver social outcomes.

DISCUSSION

Under the Fisheries Management Act 2007, dams and reservoirs are considered waters of the

State. While PIRSA has the authority under the Fisheries Management Act 2007 to manage

the aquatic resources of the State, PIRSA does not have the authority to grant ‘access’ to the

land assets owned by SA Water.


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Consideration should be given to allowing the public to undertake fishing for free at any

reservoirs that are opened up for fishing as part of the Opening up our Reservoirs election

commitment. This would be welcomed by recreational fishers and is consistent with the

Government policy regarding not establishing a general recreational fishing licence for State

waters.

To meet the election commitment and to fund ongoing stocking, Government can explore

other options to partner with recreational fishing bodies to stock reservoirs.

PIRSA does not have budget to undertaking fish stocking activities and stocking will not

proceed unless funding is provided.

Previously, PIRSA were provided with access to funds from DEW through the

Taskforce, to stock 180,000 native fish fingerlings into the South Para Reservoir. Only

of these funds were used given fingerlings could be sourced at a lower cost than was

previously budgeted, which means was unspent.

Until alternate partnering arrangements are developed, and in the absence of other funding

sources, it is proposed that (including the unspent from the South Para fish

stocking) is allocated by the Taskforce to pre‐order fish for stocking into priority reservoirs in

2019/20 and that a annual budget is set aside by the Taskforce to support fish stocking

into priority reservoirs in 2020/21.

Sean Sloan Executive Director, Fisheries and Aquaculture Primary Industries and Regions SA


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Contact: Tara Hage, Programs Manager – Reservoirs, SA Water


Meeting Paper Meeting Date: 27th June 2019

AGENDA ITEM 6 – OPENING MYPONGA RESERVOIR

RECOMMENDATIONS

That the taskforce:

1. Note the successful opening of Myponga Reservoir to the public from 14th April.

2. Note the monitoring and evaluation of visitor behaviour and compliance levels to date.

3. Note final costs for delivery of the Stage 1 opening of Myponga reservoir reserve.

BACKGROUND

Myponga reservoir reserve was opened to the public on the 14th April for a range of passive land‐based recreational activities including walking, cycling and picnicking. This first stage of opening was in accordance with the taskforce staged implementation approach. The opening day included a series of events planned to attract community and media interest, generate excitement and promote visitation for the opening. Activities on the day showcased the experiences on offer at the site and included a trail run, nature exploration and nature‐based tours as well as a range of family‐oriented activities. The day was well supported from Taskforce agencies providing an opportunity to interact with the community through representation at the event. The local community, including the Yankalilla Council, Myponga Progress Association and local business were highly engaged in the event and were actively involved in planning and catering on the day.

DISCUSSION

The opening day on the 14th April was incredibly successful and saw an estimated 2,500 people visit the reservoir reserve to enjoy the activities on offer. The day attracted positive media interest and feedback from those involved and the broader community on the opening has been overwhelmingly positive. Continued strong community interest has seen more than 2890 people visit the site from the 15th April to 2nd June, with local business having reported benefits including increased trade since the opening.


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Operational Management Framework The implementation of an effective operational management framework,

Central to the framework is an adaptive management approach that enables the refinement of controls and management measures as information is gathered about how visitors use the site.

A summary of compliance findings and management responses was presented to the Water Quality Working Group meeting on the 13th June. The working group was satisfied that overall there had been a high level of compliance, and that non‐compliances are being effectively addressed through the adaptive management approach, with implementation of additional responses and actions as required.

Tara Hage Program Manager ‐ Reservoirs SA WATER


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Contact: Daniel Hoefel, Senior Manager Water Expertise SA Water



AGENDA ITEM 6 – SA WATER’S 2018 INDEPENDENT SAFE DRINKING WATER ACT

EXTERNAL AUDIT OUTCOME

RECOMMENDATIONS

That the taskforce:

1. Note the findings from the SA Health approved external auditor regarding the policy to open reservoirs for recreational access,

2.

3. Note that the Taskforce and Minister have already been briefed regarding the draft audit findings, and SA Health’s subsequent position.

BACKGROUND

SA Water’s mature Drinking Water Quality Management System (DWQMS), including a

robust risk management framework, supports SA Water in ensuring the delivery of safe,

clean drinking water to its customers.

SA Water is legislated as a drinking water provider under the Safe Drinking Water Act (2011)

and the associated Regulations (2012), which are administered by SA Health.

The Safe Drinking Water Regulations (2012) require SA Water to observe the Australian

Drinking Water Guidelines (ADWG) prepared by the National Health and Medical Research

Council and the Natural Resources Management Ministerial Council, in relation to the

quality and supply of drinking water.

The Safe Drinking Water Act and Regulations (2012) requires SA Water to commission an

annual external audit by a SA Health approved independent auditor. The annual audit

focusses on SA Water’s compliance with the ADWG and is one source of information that SA

Health uses to assess SA Water’s overall compliance with the Act and Regulations.

DISCUSSION

SA Water’s 2018 audit was undertaken in November 2018 with an audit scope spanning 20th

November 2017 through to 16th November 2018. But the audit scope can also include

observations which the auditor deems to be emerging issues of significance.


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A draft 2018 audit report was provided to SA Water on 5 March 2019, and a final audit

report provided to SA Water and SA Health on 24 April 2019.

Independent external audit findings (2018 audit)

SA Health’s position

SA Health are representatives on the Water Quality Working Group. They have worked

closely with SA Water and DEW regarding assessment of the risks and controls required to

ensure that the safety of the drinking water is not compromised as a result of the policy to

open online reservoirs for recreational access.


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Briefings to date

While the external audit was undertaken in November 2018, a final report was only

provided to SA Water and SA Health on 24 April 2019. However, a draft report was provided

on 5 March 2019, following which briefings included;

- Written briefing and verbal round‐table briefing to the Minister on 27 March 2019.

- Verbal briefing to the Taskforce on 10 April 2019.

- Briefings provided to SA Water’s Board and Executive at various times since 5 March

2019.

Daniel Hoefel Senior Manager Water Expertise Chair of the Water Quality Working Group SA Water


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Taskforce Opening Our Reservoirs

Minutes

Date and

time Thursday 27 June 2019 10:00 am – 12:00 pm

Location Level 10 (Room 10.6), 81 Waymouth Street

Attendees



Mark Gobbie – A/ Chief Executive, SA Water

Sean Sloan – Executive Director, Fisheries and Aquaculture, Department of Primary Industries and

Regions (PIRSA)

Taskforce support

Grant Pelton – A/Group Executive Director, Parks and Regions, DEW

Justin Holmes – Project Manager, Opening Reservoirs, DEW

Tara Hage – Program Manager, Reservoirs, SA Water



John O’Malley – Coordinator Strategic Projects, DEW (Recreation and Infrastructure Working Group)


Apologies

Ben Tuffnell – Executive Director, Corporate Affairs, SATC

Tony Braxton‐Smith – Chief Executive, Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure


James Crocker – Senior Manager Wastewater Expertise and Environment, SA Water



Joanne Davidson, Research and Policy Manager, SATC (Tourism and Economic Development Working

Group)

1. Acknowledgement of Country and welcome

John welcomed attendees and provided an acknowledgement of Country.


people and that we respect their spiritual relationship with their country. We also acknowledge the

Kaurna people as the custodians of the Adelaide region and that their cultural and heritage beliefs

are still as important to the living Kaurna people today.

The Minister for Environment and Water attended at the opening of the meeting to acknowledge

and thank the taskforce for implementing a best practice and rigorous process to support the


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opening of reservoirs. The Minster acknowledged the successful opening of Myponga Reservoir in

April 2019 and that the taskforce was working towards opening additional reservoirs in 2019/20.

In preparation for opening additional reservoirs the Minister

Conservation side of this project. Opportunity for SA Water reservoir land to be managed with the

community for a conservation outcome.

John recognised the apologies which are listed on the minutes above.

Recognised Mark’s attendance, who will be Acting CE,

2. Adoption of previous minutes review of actions

Minutes of the previous meeting were adopted with the amendments recommended by Sean

Sloan.

Review of actions


/ Item



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3. Reservoirs opening in 2019


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Opening Myponga Reservoir – Stage Two

ACTION:


3.1 Approve in principle the scope of work identified for the Stage Two opening of Myponga

Reservoir.

Approved

3.2 Approve in principle the concept plan for the Stage One opening of the South Para, Warren

and Barossa Reservoirs complex in Attachment 1, noting that:

a. The final scope of work may be refined based on the Quantitative Microbial Risk

Assessment and the development of the trails plan.

b. Final concept plans (including trails plan) will be provided to the taskforce for noting.

Approved

3.3 Approve in principle the scope of work for opening Bundaleer Reservoir, noting that as a

result of the estimated costs, the scope of recreational access to the reservoir will be

reconsidered.


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Approved

3.4 Approve the allocation of up to to SA Water for the detailed design,

documentation and development application (planning) phase for infrastructure and site

works to support the opening of reservoirs identified in the recommendations above.

Approved

3.5 Note that, subject to the strategy for seeking additional project funding (discussed in Item

4 on this meeting agenda), and more detailed costing advice available following the planning

phase (noted above), consideration may be given to revising the scope and timing of work

for opening reservoirs in 2019.

Noted

4. Project Budget

ACTION:

Costs associated with managing recreation on reservoirs in 2018/19 and 2019/20

Text

ACTION:

Implications for the project schedule and timeline

Text

ACTION:

2018/19 project budget

Text

ACTION:


4.1 Note the strategy for seeking additional funding to support the opening of reservoirs

outlined in this paper.

Noted


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4.2 Endorse the operating costs associated with managing recreation on reservoirs for 2018/19

and 2019/20 in Attachments 1 and 2, noting that these costs will be allocated to the current

project budget in accordance with the strategy noted above.

4.4 Note the 2018/19 project budget in Attachment 3 and endorse the allocation of funding for

the position, Project Manager Opening Reservoirs (Justin Holmes) in 2018/19 and 2019/20.

Approved

5. Management of Fishing in Reservoirs

Sean provided an overview of the paper.


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Action – Fishing WG to do a body of work, for each reservoir that can be opened. This is the list of

fish that can be released in what reservoirs, how many should can go in, and how often

Noting, Fishing WG will look at reservoirs that have been

ACTION:


5.1

5.2

5.3

5.4 Approve allocation of from the Opening Up Our Reservoir budget (including the

surplus from the South Para reservoir stocking activity) to be used to pre‐purchase

fingerlings for 2019/20 stocking activities and that a annual budget is set aside by the

Taskforce to support fish stocking into priority reservoirs in 2020/21.

Approved – Noting the push for and concern about trout.

Approval subject to WG letting us know

what they’ll recommend goes in.

6. Papers for noting (taskforce discussion by exception)

Opening Myponga Reservoir

A meeting paper providing an overview of the successful opening of Myponga Reservoir, and

management of recreation since the reservoir was opened, was tabled by Tara.


6.1 Note the successful opening of Myponga reservoir to the public from 14th April.

Noted

6.2 Note the monitoring and evaluation of visitor behaviour and compliance levels to date

Noted


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Recom

6.4

6.5

Noted

6.6 Note that the Taskforce and Minister have already been briefed regarding the draft audit

findings, and SA Health’s subsequent position.

Noted

7. Other business

Next meeting

Next meeting – 14 August 2019


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Summary of actions


/ Item


Due


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