Download Environment Plan 2012–2017 - Phillip Island Nature Parks

Environment Plan 2012–2017
Coastal Tussock Grass Poa poiformis
Phillip Island Nature Parks
PhillipPlan
Island2012–2017
Nature Parks
Environment
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Contents
1 From the CEO
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2 Introduction
2.1 Mission and Vision
2.2 Planning Context
2.2.1 Organisational Planning Context
2.2.2 Environment Plan 2012–2017
2.3 Partnerships
2.4 Regulatory Setting
2.4.1 Phillip Island Nature Parks Regulations
2.5 Structure of the Environment Plan
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3 Park-wide Planning, Conservation and Partnerships
3.1 Island-wide Planning Strategies
3.1.1 Whole of Island Paths and Tracks, Assets and Access Planning
3.1.2 Visual Amenity
3.1.3 Public Land Tour Operator and Activity Provider Licences and Event Permits
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4 Conservation
4.1 Climate Variation
4.2 Whole of Island Biodiversity Management
4.3 Native Flora and Fauna
4.3.1 Little Penguins
4.3.2 Short-tailed Shearwaters
4.3.3 Hooded Plovers
4.3.4 Other Birds
4.3.5 Australian Fur Seals
4.3.6 Bats
4.3.7 Reptiles and Amphibians
4.3.8 Freshwater Fish and Macro-invertebrates
4.3.9 Koalas
4.3.10 Swamp Wallabies
4.3.11 Cape Barren Geese
4.4 Management of Threats to Flora and Fauna
4.4.1 Weeds and Introduced Plants
4.4.2 Feral and Domestic Animals
4.4.3 Viruses, Bacteria and Fungi
4.5 Habitat Protection and Risk Management
4.5.1 Fire
4.5.2 Marine Pollution
4.5.3 Aircraft
4.6 Heritage Conservation
4.6.1 Archaeological Sites
4.6.2 European Historic Sites
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5 Community Partnerships
5.1.1 Wildlife Rehabilitation
5.1.2 Grants, Sponsorships and Partnerships
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6 Key Area Management
6.1 Introduction
6.2 Key Areas
6.2.1 Values
6.2.2 Map of all Key Areas
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7 Key Area A: Summerland Peninsula
7.1 Sub-Area A1: Seal Rock and Black Rock
7.2 Sub-Area A2: The Nobbies and South Coast
7.3 Sub-Area A3: The Nobbies Centre
7.4 Sub-Area A4: Summerland Plateau
7.5 Sub-Area A5: Solent Avenue to Cowrie Beach
7.6 Sub-Area A6: Green Lake and Flynn Dunes
7.7 Sub-Area A7: Penguin Parade (Summerland Bay)
7.8 Sub-Area A8: Swan Lake and Surrounds
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Phillip Island Nature Parks
8 Key Area B: North-west Beaches
8.1 Sub-Area B1: Devon Avenue to Cadogan Avenue
8.2 Sub-Area B2: Woolshed Bight to Flynn Reef
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9 Key Area C: South Coast Beaches
9.1 Sub-Area C1: Kitty Millers Bay (Kennon Head to Watts Point)
9.2 Sub-Area C2: Thorny Beach and Hutchinson Beach (Watts Point to Wild Dog Bluff)
9.3 Sub-Area C3: Berry Beach
9.4 Sub-Area C4: Pyramid Rock
9.5 Sub-Area C5: Pyramid Rock to YCW Beach
9.6 Sub-Area C6: YCW Beach and Smiths Beach
9.7 Sub-Area C7: Sunderland Bay to Surfies Point
9.8 Sub-Area C8: Surfies Point to Bruce Avenue
9.9 Sub-Area C9: Forrest Caves
9.10 Sub-Area C10: The Colonnades
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10 Key Area D: Woodlands
10.1 Sub-Area D1: Ventnor Koala Reserve
10.2 Sub-Area D2: Five Ways Reserve
10.3 Sub-Area D3: Koala Conservation Centre (public area)
10.4 Sub-Area D4: Koala Conservation Centre (Plantation, Wetlands and Surrounds)
10.5 Sub-Area D5: Oswin Roberts Reserve
10.6 Sub-Area D6: Conservation Hill
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11 Key area E: Rhyll Inlet and Silverleaves Beach
11.1 Sub-Area E1: Rhyll and Rowell Swamps
11.2 Sub-Area E2: Former Rhyll Landfill and Transfer Station
11.3 Sub-Area E3: Rhyll Inlet
11.4 Sub-Area E4: Silverleaves – Banksia Woodland
11.5 Sub-Area E5: Silverleaves Beach
11.6 Sub-Area E6: Observation Point and Ghetto Rocks
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12 Key Area F: Churchill Island and Surrounds
12.1 Sub-Area F1: Churchill Island Woodlands and Coast
12.2 Sub-Area F2: Churchill Island Historic Farm
12.3 Sub-Area F3: Rhyll to Churchill Road Saltmarsh and Swan Bay
12.4 Sub-Area F4: Fisher’s Wetland to Boys Home Road
12.5 Sub-Area F5: Newhaven Wetland
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13 Key Area G: Cape Woolamai
13.1 Sub-Area G1: Princeton Avenue Block
13.2 Sub-Area G2: Cape Woolamai Tombolo
13.3 Sub-Area G3: Cape Woolamai Plateau
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14 Appendices and References
14.1 Appendix 1: Existing Plans/Reports
14.2 Appendix 2: Written Submissions
14.3 Appendix 3: Partnerships Summary
14.4 Appendix 4: Regulatory Setting
14.4.1 International Treaties and Obligations
14.4.2 Federal Legislation
14.4.3 State Legislation and management frameworks
14.4.4 Biosphere Reserve
14.4.5 Special Management Areas – Rhyll & Summerland
14.5 Appendix 5: Triple-Bottom-Line values considered for coastal and marine assets
14.6 Appendix 6: Intertidal species found on the Nobbies Rock platform
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15 References and Abbreviations
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Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 3
Abbreviations
The following abbreviations have been used within this plan:
Name
Abbreviation
Aboriginal Affairs Victoria
AAV
Australian Maritime Safety Authority
AMSA
Bass Coast Shire Council
BCSC or the Council
Barbara Martin Bush Bank
BMBB
Civil Aviation Safety Authority
CASA
Country Fire Authority
CFA
Churchill Island
CI
Committee of Management
CoM
Department of Transport
DOT
Department of Primary Industries
DPI
Department of Sustainability and Environment
DSE
Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act, Australia, 1999
EPBC
Phillip Island Nature Parks Environment Plan 2012-2017
Environment Plan
Ecological Vegetation Classes
EVCs
Fauna & Flora Guarantee Act, Victoria 1988
FFG
Friends of Churchill Island Society Inc.
FOCIS
Friends of the Koalas
FOK
International Union for Conservation of Nature
IUCN
Koala Conservation Centre
KCC
Phillip Island Nature Parks
Nature Parks
Phillip Island and District Historical Society
PIDHS
Port Phillip and Western Port Catchment Management Authority
PPWPCMA
Phillip Island Boardriders Club
PIBC
Parks Victoria
PV
Phillip Island Nature Parks Strategic Plan 2012–2017
SP
Victorian Advisory Lists of Rare or Threatened Species (Plants, Vertebrate Fauna or Invertebrate Fauna)
VAL
Victorian List of Rare or Threatened Plant Species
VROT
Western Port Biosphere
WPB
Phillip Island Nature Parks Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre
WRC
Woolamai Beach Surf Life Saving Club
WSLSC
The terms Administration, Education, Finance, Marketing, Operations or Research Department are used to
indicate departments within the Phillip Island Nature Parks organisation.
Notes
IUCN
An international organisation that compiles information from a network of conservation bodies across the world. It maintains listings of the world’s
most rare and endangered species.
EPBC Act
The Australian Government’s central piece of environmental legislation, providing a framework to protect and manage nationally and internationally
important flora, fauna, ecological communities and heritage places.
EVCs
The basic mapping units used for biodiversity planning and conservation assessment at landscape, regional and broader scales in Victoria. EVCs are
given a Bioregional Conservation Status (BCS) which is an assessment of the conservation status of the native vegetation type (EVC) in the context of
a particular bioregion, taking account of how commonly it originally occurred, the current level of depletion and the level of degradation of condition
typical of remaining stands.
VAL & VROT
Developed by DSE advisory committees, based on technical information and advice obtained from a range of experts.
FFG
The FFG Act 1988 is State legislation that provides for the listing of threatened species and communities to aid the management
of threatening processes.
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Phillip Island Nature Parks
1 | From the CEO
The remarkable diversity and quality of ecosystems found within Phillip
Island Nature Parks means that this is one of Victoria’s truly special places.
The responsibility to conserve and enhance these important natural values
is our organisation’s key priority. This is undertaken in partnership with other
natural resource managers, the many volunteers that support our work and
our wider community.
Our Environment Department leads the planning and implementation of this Plan. This is the division’s major
Five Year Plan specifically focussing on environmental objectives and outcomes for the Nature Parks.
This Plan draws on the Nature Parks’ extensive understanding developed by our organisation through our scientific
research and on-the-ground experience. Our environment staff have worked with our research and education
teams, and consulted with specialist advisors, key stakeholders and community groups, to achieve the most
comprehensive evaluation of the current status, priority needs and potential threats to the Nature Parks’ natural
assets ever produced.
The Environment Plan demonstrates the increasingly sophisticated methodologies being adopted by natural
resource managers across Australia. In particular, it introduces an ‘Assets Based Framework’: an approach which
allows us to capture a vast range of information about the ecological, cultural and economic values of the Nature
Parks, grouped within a total of seven key areas and forty sub-areas. The completion of this Framework is a long-term
process, and is an important initiative which will ensure the Nature Parks is at the leading edge of environmental
management now and into the future.
The level of detail and scale of this Plan reflects the importance and complexity of the conservation work we
undertake. Some elements of the Plan are necessarily technical, so key goals are highlighted in each section to
allow everyone with an interest in the future of the Nature Parks to clearly identify our priorities and targets.
An area of particular community interest is the application of regulations affecting public access and dog recreation.
There are currently a number of areas in the Nature Parks, which are clearly indicated within the Plan, where existing
regulations are under review.
We are now working with key stakeholders, in particular Bass Coast Shire Council and Department of Sustainability
and Environment, to develop an Access Policy which will provide a framework for the application of access
regulations. A process of community consultation will then be completed.
As the Nature Parks embarks on an exciting period, which will see the rehabilitation and enhancement of the
Summerland Peninsula to create one of Australia’s most unique conservation areas, our Environment Plan provides
a comprehensive, scientifically supported framework.
I commend this Plan to you.
Matthew Jackson
Chief Executive Officer Environment Plan 2012–2017
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2 | Introduction
The Nature Parks is a not-for-profit organisation created by the State
Government of Victoria in 1996. Located 120 kilometres south east of central
Melbourne, it comprises over 1,805 hectares of Crown Land set aside under
the Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978 “for the conservation of areas of natural
interest or beauty or of scientific, historic or archaeological interest”.
Phillip Island is part of Bunurong/Boon Wurrung country, and the Nature Parks acknowledges their custodianship
of Phillip Island and surrounds. The Nature Parks is part of the United Nations Scientific and Cultural Organisation
(UNESCO) Western Port Biosphere Reserve, and abuts the Western Port Ramsar wetland.
The Nature Parks Board is appointed under section 14(2) of the Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978 and is responsible
for the strategic direction and governance of the Parks as outlined in the Act.
The Nature Parks receives no recurrent operational funding from the State Government and generates revenue
primarily from tourism to fund its administration, marketing and work in visitor management, conservation, research
and education. However, grant and project funding from Government and sponsors is also received.
The Nature Parks operates four major visitor centres; the Penguin Parade, Koala Conservation Centre, Churchill Island
and the Nobbies Centre, attracting around one million visitors annually. The Nature Parks is the largest employer on
Phillip Island.
The Nature Parks is located in one of Australia’s fastest growing regions - Bass Coast Shire. The current population
of Bass Coast Shire is expected to increase by 40 per cent over the next 20 years. The number of recreational users,
tourists and commercial activities on Phillip Island will also increase rapidly and it is vital to balance appropriate
environmental protection with the needs and impacts of these groups.
In the 15 years since its formation, the Nature Parks has achieved significant gains for the biodiversity of Phillip
Island. Through research and environmental management, habitats have been enhanced and pest plants and
predators reduced.
The Little Penguin colony, reduced to 18,000 birds in the 1980s, now exceeds 32,000 and there have been no Little
Penguins killed by foxes on the Summerland Peninsula for over three years. Protected bird species including Cape
Barren Geese, Hooded Plovers and Short-tailed Shearwaters are increasing and the koala breeding program is a
continuing success. Churchill Island’s historic buildings and grounds have been preserved and enhanced.
Despite these achievements, there remain a number of key environmental management issues within the Nature
Parks, which this Plan seeks to address, including:
•Conservation of important vegetation, habitat and heritage sites
•Management of coastal areas for impending sea level rise and increase in frequency of storms and storm surge,
caused by climate variation
•Management of area’s visitor carrying capacities to sustainably manage key areas and preserve the quality of
visitor experience
•Management of public access to beaches and other areas of the Nature Parks
•Management of pedestrians and bicyclists
•Consideration of the impacts of urbanisation
•Locating key visitor infrastructure.
The actions listed in this plan are key priorities for the next five years. They will largely be implemented through
funding allocations in the annual budget process. Some actions will be subject to sourcing additional funds from
grants providers and sponsors.
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Phillip Island Nature Parks
2.1 Mission and Vision
Our Mission
To conserve and enhance the Nature Parks’ environment for current and
future generations, whilst achieving a balanced environmental, economic
and social outcome.
Our Vision
To be a world–recognised place of conservation excellence, providing
outstanding and authentic experiences for all.
In striving to achieve our vision to be a world–recognised place of conservation excellence, the Environment
Plan 2012-2017 is based on the following principles:
•Conservation and protection of the natural environment and heritage values
•Sustainable use of natural resources
•Recognition of the role government expects the regional community to play
•Recognition of the Indigenous communities as the original custodians of natural resources on the Island
•Balance between environmental health, social well-being and economic prosperity, and to recognise their
interdependence
•Anticipation of threats and opportunities
•Planning that considers local knowledge, the causes of problems, and uses scientific evidence
•Decisions that are open to change as knowledge and understanding develop
•Opportunity for participation in decisions by all those with a stake in the outcome.
Note: A detailed map and list of the Crown Allotments which comprise Phillip Island Nature Parks is available on our
website www.penguins.org.au
2.2 Planning Context
2.2.1 Organisational Planning Context
The Nature Parks Strategic Plan 2012-2017 summarises the strategic-level priorities that the Nature Parks will pursue in
the next five years, as well as articulating a 20 year vision for the organisation. The Strategic Plan identifies three key
imperatives which will steer the Nature Parks and move towards the achievement of our future vision:
•Imbed the core goal of conservation in the way we work, the messages we give and all experiences of the
Nature Parks
•Lay the foundations to reinvent the Nature Parks as an outstanding contemporary conservation destination, and the
Summerland Peninsula as an environmental, recreational and tourism icon
•Make sure the organisation has an appropriate governance framework and the partnerships to enable us to deliver
and maintain our vision in the critical years ahead.
Within this strategic framework, the Nature Parks will continue to develop detailed planning documents for
our established programs in environment, research, education, administration, marketing, technology, asset
management and human resources and workforce management. The Planning Framework 2012–2017 (Figure 1)
illustrates the organisational context within which the Environment Plan fits.
The Environment Plan has a critical relationship to the development of the Summerland Peninsula Master Plan and
the Phillip Island Nature Parks Access Policy. Working collaboratively with BCSC, DSE and the community, the Access
Policy will seek to establish criteria for emergency, short, medium and long–term changes to public access, including
weightings for public safety, environmental risk and anticipated public impact. The outcomes of this process will
impact on some aspects of the environment team’s planning, and vice versa.
Similarly, the development of the Summerland Peninsula Master Plan will seek to be informed by environmental
management priorities and long-term goals.
Environment Plan 2012–2017
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Figure 1
Planning
2012-2017
PLANNINGFramework
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KEY AREA
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SUMMERLAND PENINSULA GOVERNMENT FUNDING
2017
20 years
SUMMERLAND
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COMMUNITY CONSULTATION
GOVERNMENT FUNDING APPLICATION
2.2.2 Environment Plan 2012-2017
The purpose of the Environment Plan 2012–2017 is to provide a five-year planning framework for the Environment
Department, identifying specific goals and actions the Nature Parks will undertake in planning, conservation and
community partnerships in the medium to long term. Day to day work plans, including maintenance schedules, are
the purpose of departmental Annual Work Plans.
Appendix 1 contains a list of existing plans currently utilised by the Environment Department.
An extensive process of community and stakeholder consultation was undertaken to inform the development of
the Environment Plan, including a series of public and special interest group workshops and information sessions
conducted over a five month period from January to May 2012.
A specialist advisory panel provided expert advice on natural resource management and environmental science.
The Environment Plan’s development process was communicated to the public through a dedicated website and
local newspaper advertising. In all, almost 200 people directly participated in consultation.
The Draft Environment Plan 2012-2017 was released for formal public comment for a five week period in May-June
2012, with approximately 435 copies distributed to the public and key stakeholders, and made available online.
A total of 28 formal submissions were received.
A list of submitting organisations and individuals is provided in Appendix 2.
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Phillip Island Nature Parks
2.3 Partnerships
The protection and enhancement of the Nature Parks is not undertaken in isolation. A number of Government
departments and agencies, conservation groups and community organisations make important contributions to the
Nature Parks’ activities in a wide range of areas.
Many actions outlined in this Plan have one or more partners involved to achieve our goals, providing shared
outcomes which contribute to wider regional and state natural resource management objectives. In total 40 partners
have been identified in this Plan; the Nature Parks appreciates the invaluable contribution made by each.
Appendix 3 provides a summary of all partners with whom the Nature Parks is currently involved.
Community
The Nature Parks values its unique relationship with the community of Phillip Island.
Community involvement is vital in achieving integrated natural resource management. Volunteer environmental
groups are involved in the development and implementation of a number of plans that support action at a local
scale. Input from local Indigenous communities is also critical in maintaining cultural heritage values on the Island.
2.4 Regulatory Setting
The work of the Nature Parks sits within a range of wider legislation and obligations, and is informed by a range
of key agreements and plans at an international, national, state and local level.
A detailed overview of the Nature Parks’ regulatory environment is located in Appendix 4.
2.4.1 Phillip Island Nature Parks Regulations
The Nature Parks Board is responsible for the strategic direction and governance of the Nature Parks under the Crown
Land (Reserves) Act 1978. Under Section 13 of the Act regulations are prepared and approved by the relevant Minister
and published in the Government Gazette (Crown Land (Reserves) [Phillip Island Nature Park] Regulations 2010). The
Nature Parks is vested with the responsibility to enact the regulations that help protect sensitive environmental areas
and species, and ensure public safety and enjoyment. Regulations are updated every 10 years.
The Nature Parks Board as a Committee of Management can vary some regulations through Determinations, for
example under Regulation 18: “The Committee may, by determination, set aside a specified area of the Park as an area
in which a person may camp.” A Determination is made on what days, times and locations a person may camp in the
Nature Parks. The Nature Parks Board also has the ability to issue permits for one-off, not-for–profit events such as
weddings within the Nature Parks. A person or business who conducts a guided tour or recreational activity for profit
within the Nature Parks (public land) is required to hold a tour operator licence which is applied for through the
Nature Parks and approved by DSE.
The Nature Parks recognises that the application of regulations and determinations and the issuing of permits and
tour operator licences is an area of interest and concern to the local community. The Nature Parks is embarking
on the development of an Access Policy in conjunction with the community and key stakeholders BCSC and DSE.
The aim of the policy is to provide an agreed framework and process for assessing the cost-benefit of access to
sensitive or potentially dangerous areas of the Nature Parks.
Access Policy criteria may include, but are not limited to, environmental sensitivity, public safety, parking capacity,
visitor capacity, minimisation of conflicts with other Nature Parks users and local conditions. The development of
the Access Policy is a consultative one and has commenced. The formalisation of a working group is expected by
November 2012, with the final policy established by the end of 2013.
Until this process is completed, decisions regarding off-leash dog exercising within the Nature Parks, and access to
Observation Point and Summerland cliffs as well as other sensitive areas of the Nature Parks, cannot be finalised.
Areas of the Nature Parks where Determinations will be reviewed in the future are indicated within this Plan.
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 9
2.5 Structure of the Environment Plan
The Environment Plan is presented in three sections:
•Park-wide issues, opportunities and goals relating to planning, conservation and community partnerships, including
actions relating to fauna, flora, pests, heritage conservation and risk management affecting many parts of the
Nature Parks
•Goals outlined in the plan are measurable and will be reviewed and tracked throughout the five years of this plan’s
implementation
•Key Area Management: applying an ‘Assets Based Framework’ to understand and plan for the many different areas
which comprise the Nature Parks at a more detailed level
•Appendices and References.
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Phillip Island Nature Parks
Park–Wide Planning, Conservation and Community Partnerships
Park-wide Planning,
Conservation and Partnerships
3 | Park-wide Planning
3.1 Island-wide Planning Strategies
The key values of the Nature Parks need to be protected within the framework of an increasingly urbanised and
recreation driven environment. Ecosystems can be fragmented over time due to the pressures from development
and decreased amounts of open space close to townships for recreation as well as changes in agricultural practices.
Increased urbanisation on Phillip Island is perhaps the most persistent form of environmental modification affecting
the Nature Parks’ values and can significantly alter the Island’s landscape both visually and in structure. Invasion
by pest plant and animals caused by disturbance and the Nature Parks’ high ‘edge to area ratio’ is one of the main
contributors to fragmentation of natural areas and ecosystems on the Island.
In order to protect the Nature Parks’ environmental, social and economic values, including the visual landscape,
island-wide strategies and strong partnerships between management agencies and the community is essential.
3.1.1 Whole of Island Paths and Tracks, Assets and Access Planning
The Nature Parks provides a variety of walking opportunities in a compact area. Visitors can enjoy wild ocean
beaches, rugged cliffs, heritage landscapes, shady bushland, unspoiled wetlands and diverse wildlife. Major tracks
are located at Cape Woolamai, Churchill Island, Berry’s Beach/Pyramid Rock and the Oswin Roberts-Rhyll area. Short
walks and informal beach walks are also available.
The current management of infrastructure at beaches and public areas, including car parks, toilets, paths and
boardwalks, is inefficient and unclear in terms of the tenure of the responsible agency.
The demand for recreational access to the Nature Parks is increasing. In the context of the projected demand, the
Nature Parks will work with BCSC and DSE to develop an Access Policy for all beaches, and develop strategies to
improve management during peak periods in line with the Victorian Coastal Strategy 2008.
No.
Actions
1
Assist in developing island-wide mapping Mapping completed by
June 2013
of existing walking and bicycling trails,
identifying gaps and potential linkages
across Phillip Island (SP 1.4.3, 2.1.1, 2.2.2)
2
Assist in investigating the feasibility of
walking tracks along the south coast and
explore opportunities to link existing
tracks on Phillip Island. Take into account
the implications of climate variation
(SP 1.4.1, 1.4.2)
Investigation completed by
December 2013
Residents, farmers, coastal
communities, Phillip Island Tourism
and Business Association, BCSC,
Education Department
3
Help evaluate the viability of increasing
access for bicyclists and horse riders
on appropriate tracks and areas
(SP 1.4.1, 1.4.3)
Investigation completed by
December 2013
Phillip Island Bicycle Users Group,
Phillip Island Pony Club, BCSC,
Environment Advisory Committee,
landowners, community, DSE, PV,
Education Department
4
Ensure that paths are compatible with
Nature Parks values and predicted
changes due to climate variation (SP 2.1.1)
Nature Parks values are
included in Access Policy and
path and track reviews
Environment Advisory Committee,
Operations Department
5
Help evaluate the current management of
infrastructure at beaches and public areas
where BCSC and Nature Parks managed
land abut (SP 1.5.1, 2.1.1)
MOU with BCSC regarding
the management of
adjoining infrastructure
completed by June 2017
Operations Department, BCSC, DSE
6
Evaluate future demands for recreational
access, in particular to beaches,
and develop strategies to improve
management during peak periods
(SP 2.1.1, 1.5.2)
Consider future demands
recreational access in Key
Area Plans. Complete by
June 2017
BCSC, DSE, WSLSC, PIBC,
community, Surfing Victoria,
DPI , Education and Operations
Departments
7
Develop an ‘Action Procedure for
Encroachment’ for areas where private
structures such as drains, sheds and lawn
areas are intruding into the Nature Parks
(SP 2.1.1)
Policy developed by end of
June 2013 and enacted by
June 2017
DSE
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Phillip Island Nature Parks
Goals
Partners
BCSC, Phillip Island Bicycle
Users Group, Community and
Environment Advisory Committees,
conservation groups, Education
Department
3.1.2 Visual Amenity
The southern and western coastline of Phillip Island is a rugged and varied landscape of state significance that
has been shaped by the high seas and winds of Bass Strait to create some of Victoria’s best-known landforms1.
The aesthetic quality of the landscape is demonstrated by its attraction for photographers, artists and visitors to
the Nature Parks. Most of the southern coastline is recognised by the National Trust of Victoria (L10076) as a landscape
of National Significance.
The northern and eastern coastlines of Phillip Island are landscapes of regional significance. These areas are
characterised by rolling rural landscapes adjoining low-energy, sandy and mud-flat coastlines on the northern edge
at Western Port2.
The built environment can dramatically detract from nature appreciation and landscape values. Wherever possible,
planning should promote a continuous landscape without intrusions and avoid visual clutter (including buildings,
structures and signage) along highways and key touring routes3.
No.
Actions
Goals
Partners
8
Encourage BCSC to improve scenic
amenity for visitors to the Island,
for example tree planting, review
of signage and undergrounding
power lines (SP 2.1.1)
Matters of concern raised at BCSC,
Nature Parks liaison meetings
BCSC
9
Complete a landscape assessment
as part of any environment impact
assessment for infrastructure
developments in the Nature Parks
(SP 2.1.1)
Landscape assessment completed
for infrastructure developments as
part of the Nature Parks internal
planning process
Administration & Operations
10
Develop a lighting plan for all
areas of the Nature Parks to
minimise impacts on wildlife
and visual amenity
Lighting plan developed by
June 2017
Administration and Operations,
community, BCSC, VicRoads,
WSLSC
3.1.3 Public Land Tour Operator and Activity Provider Licences and Event Permits
On 1st July 2011, State Government legislation was amended to establish a consistent legislative framework for the
licensing of commercial tour operators and activity providers operating on public land in Victoria.
All commercial tourism or recreational activities within the Nature Parks must be run by a fully qualified and Licensed
Tour Operator or Activity Provider.
This licensing legislation does not, however, apply to non-commercial organised group activities, including social,
recreational and sporting events. For these activities, the Nature Parks has a permit system to ensure that all visitors
have an equal opportunity to use and enjoy the Nature Parks’ public land including beaches, whilst safeguarding
natural ecosystems and protecting wildlife, environmental and cultural values. The Nature Parks permit system is
consistent with the system used by PV and other committees of management.
The permit system enables the Nature Parks to better manage non-commercial activities occurring on beaches and
coastal reserves, and ensures that events are directed to the most suitable places and are run in accordance with
public safety standards. Accordingly, permits are required for all organised and group events and activities including:
recreational or sporting competitions; recreational and sporting events held by clubs; weddings and ceremonies;
filming and photography.
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 13
4 | Conservation
No.
Actions
Goals
Partners
11
Ensure that appropriate Tour
Operator and Activity Provider
Licences are issued to all operators
using the Nature Parks
Licenses issued to comply
with legislation
DSE, Tour Operators and Activity
Providers, Marketing Department
12
Process permit applications for
all organised and group activities
and events occurring within the
Nature Parks
Process permit applications within
14 working days
Schools, clubs and event
organisers, Education Department,
Marketing Department
13
Assist in the development of an
Access Policy for the Nature Parks
including determining threshold
levels of activity or use an area can
sustain (SP 4.2)
Access Policy developed by
December 2013
BCSC, DSE, Community and
Environment Advisory Committees,
Research Department
4.1 Climate Variation
Global warming and resultant climate variation has emerged as a key issue for biodiversity and environmental
management throughout the world. Loss of terrestrial habitat caused by anthropogenic emissions of greenhouse
gases has been formally listed as an endangering process under the EPBC Act. Widely held views are that climate
variation will cause sea-level rise, decreased rainfall and humidity, increased air temperature, changes in sea-surface
temperature, winds, the southern oscillation index and ocean acidification, all of which will impact negatively on the
Nature Parks.
Coastal infrastructure and beach access, such as staircases and boardwalks, may be at risk in the long term from
increased frequency and magnitude of storms and sea level rise. Other likely impacts of climate variation on the
Nature Parks include an increase in invasive species problems, potential loss of some beaches, and loss of Indigenous
cultural heritage such as middens4.
Some areas of the Nature Parks are particularly vulnerable to sea level rise, including the mangroves and saltmarshes
of Rhyll Inlet and along the Western Port shoreline of Phillip Island. Beaches along the southern coastline may also be
eroded and ‘lost’ as the Nature Parks is very narrow in these locations and there is no space for the coast to retreat
due to coastal development. Rocky shorelines have been identified as particularly vulnerable to climate variation as
they have a high number of endemic species5. Climate variation is likely to result in a southward movement of some
marine species, and changes in community composition and spawning times6.
Parts of the landscape are changing in ways that are of concern. The Nature Parks will consult with relevant
stakeholders to decide on monitoring requirements, and whether protection, rehabilitation or adaptation measures
are feasible. If cost effective, appropriate actions will be implemented.
No.
Actions
Goals
14
Assist with reviewing the
predictions and implications
of climate variation on the
Nature Parks’ values annually
(SP 2.1.1, 2.1.2)
Annual synopsis prepared for Board Research and Operations
Departments, BCSC, DSE
15
Apply the precautionary principle
to planning and management
decision-making associated with
possible climate variation impacts
(SP 2.1.1, 2.1.2)
Assessment completed for each
infrastructure plan
Operations Department
16
Prioritise the replacement of
marram grass and sea wheatgrass on coastal beaches
(e.g. Summerland Bay) with native
grass species to improve Little
Penguin and Hooded Plover
access (SP 2.1.2)
Establish photo points for each key
area by June 2013 and re-survey
bi-annually in winter and summer
to monitor the effects of weed
control. Adapt management
as needed.
Community groups, Coastcare,
BCSC, Research Department
Page 14
Phillip Island Nature Parks
Partners
17
Monitor the quality of vegetation
in Hooded Plover, penguin and
shearwater habitat (SP 2.1.2)
Research Department, contractors
No deterioration in quality of
vegetation. Monitor by establishing
vegetation quality survey quadrats
in each key area by June 2017 and
re-survey every 3 to 5 years.
18
Assist with assessing the potential
to create buffer zones, protecting
sensitive areas such as mangroves
and saltmarsh from the impacts of
climate variation
(SP 2.1.1, 2.1.2, 2.1.3)
Opportunities to work with key
stakeholders to create buffer
zones explored
19
Help monitor the intertidal fauna
of the rocky shores within the
Nature Parks
Monitoring program set up by June Education Department,
2014 and sampled annually
DSE, volunteers
DSE, BCSC, Trust for Nature,
Research Department
4.2 Whole of Island Biodiversity Management
In 2005, DSE prepared a ‘Landscape Plan for the Phillip Island Zone’, which is one of 15 zones within the Gippsland
Plain Bioregion. Phillip Island retains around 23 per cent of the original extent of native vegetation. This vegetation
exists largely around the perimeter of the Island, in public ownership. The vegetation in private ownership is nearly
all endangered and is fragmented and patchy - 16 ecological vegetation classes and approximately 23 flora and 61
fauna species are considered to be of conservation concern.
No.
Actions
Goals
Partners
20
Assist in assessing funding options
for an updated island-wide flora
and fauna strategy (SP 2.1.1, 2.2)
Assessment completed by
June 2014
BCSC, community, landowners,
farmers, government agencies,
Trust for Nature, PWCMA,
Landcare, WPB
21
Assist in moving to an integrated
coastal management strategy
for the Western Port region by
undertaking actions relevant to
the Nature Parks within the Port
Phillip and Western Port Regional
Catchment Strategy 2012-18 (when
available) (SP 2.1.1, 2.2)
Actions relevant to the Nature
Parks undertaken
PPWPCMA, WPB
22
Assist in exploring management
strategies for the increased
populations of mammals such as
Swamp Wallabies and native birds
including Little Ravens and Cape
Barren Geese (SP 2.2)
Assessment completed by
June 2017
Research Department, BCSC, DPI,
DSE, landowners, Landcare, and
community
4.3 Native Flora and Fauna
The care and management of native flora and fauna is the core conservation goal of the Nature Parks. Phillip Island
retains around 23 per cent of the original extent of native vegetation and most of this is within the Nature Parks8.
Ten Victorian Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVC’s)9 found on the Island are considered endangered, three vulnerable
and three severely depleted. There are records for 23 rare or threatened native flora (VROT) species on Phillip Island.
These important plant communities require special management for their protection and enhancement.
Lists of flora and fauna found within the Nature Parks are available on our web site www.penguins.org.au
The Nature Parks’ role in fauna and flora conservation includes seeking to understand more about the needs of
native species, identifying management practices to optimise the size and spread of populations, and monitoring
changes in populations and habitats.
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 15
Nine wetlands occur within the Nature Parks and Phillip Island is included in the Western Port listing under the
Directory of Nationally Important Wetlands (federal). Western Port is also a Ramsar wetland of international
significance and parts of the Nature Parks are within the site.
Phillip Island is a BirdLife International Important Bird Area (IBA) with globally significant bird populations of Little
Penguins, Short-tailed Shearwaters, Hooded Plovers and Pacific Gulls. IBA’s are priority areas for bird conservation.
International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) maintains a ‘Red List of Threatened Species™’. IUCN has
listed within this data book many species found within or surrounding Phillip Island including the Eastern Curlew
(Vulnerable), Fairy Tern (Vulnerable), Hooded Plover (Near Threatened), Orange-bellied Parrot (Critically Endangered),
Swift Parrot, (Critically Endangered) and Shy Albatross (Near Threatened).
The Nature Parks will work with partner organisations towards the re-introduction of key native species to restore
the biodiversity of Phillip Island nearer to pre-European levels. There are a number of threats to biodiversity on
Phillip Island and within the Nature Parks, in particular:
•Native vegetation and habitat loss or degradation – due to clearing for urban development / agriculture / fire
prevention / disease / climate variation
•Native vegetation and habitat fragmentation – due to clearing / potential eucalypt dieback / disease
•Native vegetation and habitat quality decline – due to lack of or inappropriate management e.g. salinity
•Urban / human disturbance – residential development, cats and dogs, recreational activity pressure, encroachment
•Inappropriate fire management
•Pest animals – foxes, rabbits, hares, feral cats, invertebrates and rodents
•Pest weeds and garden escapees - loss and degradation of native plant and animal habitat by invasion of escaped
garden plants has been listed as a threatening process under the EPBC Act.
No.
Actions
Goals
Partners
23
Participate in the development of
integrated management plans for
all key areas of the Nature Parks
(SP 1.3.1, 2.1.1, 2.1.2)
Plans completed by June 2017
Operations, Administration and
Research Departments, BCSC,
DSE, DPI, landowners, contractors,
community
24
Develop a template for plans for
major threats and management
issues such as fire, weeds and
feral animals and develop for
each key area (SP 1.3.1, 2.1.1,
2.1.2, 2.2.3, 2.2.4)
Templates completed by June 2017
Research Department
25
Continue to assess opportunities
for the Crown to acquire areas
with environmentally significant
EVCs or former Little Penguin or
Short-tailed Shearwater colonies10
(SP 2.1.1, 2.1.3)
Opportunities to work with key
stakeholders explored as they arise
DSE, BCSC, Trust for Nature
26
Assist with assessing the potential
to create buffer zones, protecting
sensitive areas from the impacts
of climate variation or population
pressures (SP 2.1.1, 2.1.2, 2.1.3)
Opportunities to work with key
stakeholders to create buffer
zones explored
DSE, BCSC, Trust for Nature
27
Opportunities to work with
Apply the Nature Parks’ expert
key stakeholders identified
coastal and marine knowledge to
work with appropriate stakeholders and explored
to ensure environmental risks,
including hydrology and soil
erosion, are managed and
impacts are minimised during
local and regional developments
(SP 2.1.1, 2.1.6)
Page 16
Phillip Island Nature Parks
Research Department, BCSC, DSE,
PV, WPB, Port of Hastings
28
Promote the use of indigenous
plant species and where possible
use locally sourced species in
revegetation works (SP 2.1.1, 2.1.2)
80 per cent of indigenous plant
seed per annum sourced locally
BCSC, DSE, DPI, landowners,
community, Landcare, BMBB
29
Manage Fauna and Flora Guarantee
Act 1988 and EPBC listed species,
communities and potentially
threatening processes according to
approved plans (SP 2.1.1, 2.1.2)
Protective measures included in the annual Environment
Business Plan
BCSC, DSE, landowners, Melbourne
Water, Westernport Water,
volunteers, WPB
30
Facilitate volunteer involvement
with the Environment Department
(SP 2.1.1, 4.3.2)
Achieve 1000 volunteer days per
annum (including 200 on the
Summerland Peninsula)
Coastcare and volunteers
31
Encourage wildlife corridors to
link or expand patches of habitat
across the Island, particularly from
the Summerland Peninsula to Rhyll
(SP 2.1.1, 2.1.2)
Opportunities to work with
key stakeholders identified
and explored
Landcare, BCSC, landowners,
VicRoads
32
Help protect and revegetate EVC
remnants along creek lines and
wetlands within the Nature Parks
(SP 2.1.1, 1.3.5, 2.1.1, 2.1.2)
Achieve 100 person days per
annum for wetland protection
and revegetation (included above)
Melbourne Water, BCSC, Landcare,
landowners, volunteers
33
Install nest boxes in areas where
there are insufficient hollows or
nesting sites for small mammals,
such as bats and birds, or where
hollows are removed for visitor
protection (SP 2.6.2)
All hollows removed for visitor
protection replaced by nest boxes
Education Department, volunteers
4.3.1 Little Penguins
The world famous Penguin Parade is the Nature Parks’ and the State of Victoria’s major natural wildlife attraction.
Little Penguin colonies at the Summerland Peninsula support a breeding population of an estimated 32,000 adult
penguins - around 20 per cent of the estimated total breeding population of Little Penguins in Victoria.
The Penguin Parade provides the most accessible and reliable Little Penguin viewing in Australia. Little Penguin
viewing occurs along the southern coast of Australia, Tasmania and in New Zealand, but on a much smaller scale than
at the Penguin Parade. The conservation of the Little Penguin population on the Summerland Peninsula is one of the
most critical tasks for the Nature Parks.
No.
Actions
Goals
Partners
34
Lighting plan completed by
Assist with the development of
June 2014
a lighting plan for the Penguin
Parade within the Summerland
Master Plan to reduce light spill into
habitat areas at night
35
Facilitate volunteer involvement
in re-vegetation programs at the
Penguin Parade and Summerland
Peninsula (SP 2.1.1, 4.3.2)
Achieve 200 volunteer
hours per annum on the
Summerland Peninsula
Volunteers
36
Help ensure the protection of
marine areas and resources used
by seabirds and shorebirds,
particularly Little Penguins
(SP 2.1.1, 2.1.6, 2.3.3)
Opportunities to work with
key stakeholders identified
and explored
Research Department, DSE, PV,
WPB, conservation groups
Research, Operations and Finance
Departments, contractors
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 17
4.3.2 Short-tailed Shearwaters
Short-tailed Shearwaters (also known as mutton birds) undertake an amazing annual migration leaving Phillip Island
in April/May each year to fly to feeding grounds in the Bering Straits, Alaska, then to return to breed on Phillip Island
in late September. Short-tailed Shearwaters are listed in Governmental agreements for the protection of migratory
species. Approximately one million shearwaters breed within the Nature Parks.
The largest colony is located at Cape Woolamai with other smaller colonies found along the south coast and on the
northwest coast of Phillip Island. Many colonies are threatened by problems associated with proximity to rural and
urban land. Many juvenile shearwater deaths are recorded due to birds colliding with cars on Phillip Island roads and
on the San Remo Bridge, as the young birds appear to be attracted to road lighting.
Phillip Island contains approximately eight per cent of the world’s total population of Short-tailed Shearwaters,
and is critical to their breeding success.
No.
Actions
Goals
Partners
37
Work with the community to gain
support for shearwater protection
including the Shearwater Rescue
Program (SP 2.3.3)
Shearwater Protection Program
continues – night and early
morning patrols from 16th April
to 5th May
BCSC, DSE, PV, VicRoads, SP AusNet,
landowners, volunteers, Research
and Education Departments
38
Work with other statutory agencies
and volunteers to minimise risks
to Short-tailed Shearwaters
including collisions with power
lines, buildings, cars, trampling of
burrows and negative interactions
with dogs and cats (SP 2.3.3)
Opportunities to work with
key stakeholders identified
and explored
BCSC, DSE, VicRoads, SP AusNet,
landowners, volunteers, Research
and Education Departments
39
Promote covenants and overlays on Opportunities to work with
Short-tailed Shearwater habitat on key stakeholders identified
private land for ongoing protection and explored
(SP 2.3.3)
BCSC, DSE, Trust for Nature
4.3.3 Hooded Plovers
Key areas of Phillip Island provide critical habitat for the Hooded Plover, which is listed as vulnerable in Victoria11, and
listed under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee and the EPBC Acts.
Risks to Hooded Plovers include the high rate of egg loss due to predation by foxes, dogs and native birds.
Recreational dog activities can cause abandonment of nests, and also place pressure on nesting birds and chicks
prior to fledging.
No.
Actions
Goals
Partners
41
Monitor the population of Hooded
Plovers on Phillip Island by islandwide counts (SP 1.3.6, 1.3.7)
Four counts per annum
Volunteers, BirdLife Bass Coast and
Hooded Plover Watch volunteers,
Research Department
42
Help reinvigorate and facilitate the
Hooded Plover Watch volunteer
program and protection of nests
(SP 2.1.1, 4.3.2)
Achieve a five year average of
eight chicks fledged per annum
on Phillip Island
BirdLife Bass Coast and Hooded
Plover Watch volunteers, BCSC,
DSE, WPB
43
Assist with the creation of a
management strategy for the
protection of the Hooded Plovers
and investigate opportunities
to enhance conservation efforts
through an artificial breeding and
re-introduction program
(SP 1.3.6, 1.3.7, 2.1.1, 2.1.4)
Management strategy completed
for each key area by June 2017
BCSC, DSE, PV, BirdLife Australia,
Research Department, volunteers,
WPB, Healesville Sanctuary
Page 18
Phillip Island Nature Parks
4.3.4 Other Birds
Phillip Island supports a moderately diverse bird fauna that is important regionally as a contributor to biodiversity
in the Western Port region. Twelve species are listed by the IUCN, 120 species are listed under the EPBC Act and 28
under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act including the endangered Little Tern, Orange-bellied Parrot and Swift
Parrot, and the vulnerable Hooded Plover and Fairy Tern. Thirty nine of these species are listed under JAMBA, CAMBA
or ROKAMBA. Birds of prey are also common, and Phillip Island is a staging point for a number of bird species that
migrate across Bass Strait including the Swamp Harrier, Swift Parrot, Flame Robin and Silvereye.
The beaches and mudflats within and around the Nature Parks support internationally significant populations of
waterbirds including migratory waders (shorebirds), notably at Rhyll Inlet, Swan Bay, and parts of Churchill Island
Marine National Park.
No.
Actions
Goals
Partners
44
Provide logistical support
for continued monitoring of
shorebirds and terns
(SP 2.1.1, 2.1.2, 1.3.5, 2.6.2)
Minimum of five activities
supported per annum
BirdLife Bass Coast, Victorian
Wader Study Group, BirdLife
Australia, Australasian Wader
Studies Group, WPB
45
Opportunities to work with key
Ensure shorebird feeding and
roosting areas remain secluded and stakeholders identified and ensure
bird feeding and roosting sites
undeveloped (SP 1.3.5, 2.1.1, 2.6.2)
remain undisturbed
46
Support monitoring programs
for IUCN listed species by BirdLife
Australia and include protection
and habitat enhancement
measures and signage in the key
area plans (SP 2.6.2)
Participate in a minimum of two
counts per annum
BirdLife Australia
47
Preserve old trees that have, or
may develop, nesting hollows for
parrots and other species (SP 2.6.2)
Preserve trees within the Nature
Parks whenever possible.
Opportunities to work with key
stakeholders identified
Community
BCSC, PV, DSE
4.3.5 Australian Fur Seals
The breeding colony of 25,000 to 30,000 Australian Fur Seals at Seal and Black Rocks is one of the two largest colonies
for this species and represents 25 per cent of the species’ total population.
Australian Fur Seal populations in Bass Strait are increasing, primarily due to recovery from over-exploitation in the
1800s, ongoing hunting in the early 1900s, and then designation as a protected species in 1975. Australian Fur Seals
interact frequently with fisheries in south-eastern Australia. They harvest from the same ecosystems as the fisheries,
including ecosystems relied on by Little Penguins. An additional issue for the seals is entanglement in fishing gear
and other non-biodegradable materials at sea. Injury and fatality to vertebrate marine life caused by ingestion of, or
entanglement in, harmful marine debris has been listed as an endangering process under the EPBC Act.
No.
Actions
Goals
Partners
48
Assist with the removal of
discarded fishing gear from seals
and within seal habitat
Assist Research Department
as needed
Research Department
4.3.6 Bats
Phillip Island is home to a suite of native, insectivorous forest bats, most of which are common in forests across
Victoria. The bats are small, weighing 4-10 grams, and require a healthy forest environment to provide a diversity of
insect prey and a range of roost sites. Forest bats roost mostly in dead trees and dead branches in live trees. Up to 120
bats can occupy a single roost.
Bats may be the most numerous native mammal fauna on Phillip Island; over 1000 forest bats forage in the forests
of the KCC alone.
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 19
No.
Actions
Goals
Partners
49
Protect remnant vegetation and
older growth trees, and dead limbs
in trees and dead trees, as prime
bat habitat within the Nature Parks
(SP 2.1.1)
Preserve trees within the
Nature Parks whenever possible.
Opportunities to work with key
stakeholders identified
Community
4.3.7 Reptiles and Amphibians
Fourteen species of reptiles and amphibians are found within the Nature Parks, far fewer than in the wider Western
Port Region - across which a total of 36 species have been found - possibly due to past extinctions or the impact of
European settlement.
Threats to the Nature Parks’ amphibian and reptile populations include fragmentation of habitat, weed invasion, fire,
introduced predators, inappropriate herbicide application and disturbance by humans.
No.
Actions
Goals
Partners
50
Control introduced grasses
such as Phalaris aquatica on the
Summerland Peninsula as it is
unsuitable for most reptiles
20% reduction of Phalaris aquatica
over five years
Contractors, VicRoads, BCSC
51
Minimise the adverse effects of
herbicides on amphibians in the
vicinity of water bodies
(SP 2.1.1, 2.6.1, 2.6.2)
Low environmental impact taken
into consideration when assessing
herbicides for use in wetland areas
and when assessing tenders for
weed spraying contractors
Contractors, BCSC, VicRoads
52
Log opportunistic rare, threatened
or unusual wildlife sightings onto
the Atlas of Victorian Wildlife
All sightings logged when found
DSE
4.3.8 Freshwater Fish and Macro-invertebrates
Historical fish survey data for Phillip Island12 has shown 15 native freshwater species, 22 estuarine species and six
exotic species of fish have been collected in the waterways of the Island since record keeping commenced. Only
three species of fish, Common Galaxias (Galaxias maculates), Spotted Galaxias (G. truttaceus) and Short-finned Eel
(Anguilla australis), were found in a survey conducted between 2000 and 2002. No exotic or introduced fish species
were recorded.13
Survey work was undertaken in 2001-2002 on the macro-invertebrates of the nine freshwater wetlands or waterways
on Phillip Island. The number of taxa recorded over the seasons was between 40 and 60 species. Newhaven and Rhyll
Swamps had reduced colonisation of species thought to be due to high tannin levels.14
Values requiring protection for macro-invertebrates include diversity of biota, water quality and habitat condition.
No.
Actions
Goals
Partners
53
Ensure regular monitoring of
surface and ground water as
per the Former Rhyll Landfill Site
Departure Plan
Meet the requirements of the
Departure Plan
EPA, BCSC, Administration and
Finance Departments, DSE
54
Continue to monitor water quality
in the Nature Parks wetlands
through Melbourne Water’s WaterWatch program (SP 2.1.1)
Monitoring of six sites monthly and
nine bi-monthly
Melbourne Water
4.3.9 Koalas
Koalas were first introduced to Phillip Island in the late 1800s with resident populations establishing by the 1920s.
During the mid-20th century their population was high enough to justify the relocation of more than 3,000 koalas
from Phillip Island. However, free-ranging koalas are now uncommon on Phillip Island due to the combined effects of
Chlamydia infection, road kill, dog predation and habitat destruction.
Page 20
Phillip Island Nature Parks
A protected koala population is maintained at the Koala Conservation Centre (KCC). The Centre provides an
opportunity for viewing koalas in their natural habitat as well as close koala viewing for visitors on two woodland
boardwalks. A new visitor centre was opened in December 2009 and provides interpretation of the koala story on
Phillip Island and in Victoria.
No.
Actions
Goals
Partners
55
Continue to monitor the koala
population in Nature Parks
woodlands, on Phillip Island and
in the KCC
Annual island-wide koala count
FOK, volunteers
56
Commission a Koala Management
Plan for the management of koalas
at the KCC
Plan completed by June 2014
Operations, Finance and Research
Departments, DSE, DPI, FOK,
contractors
4.3.10 Swamp Wallabies
Swamp Wallabies are native to Phillip Island. Early settlers noted their presence and they were recognised as common
through to the 1930s and 40s. Thereafter numbers were severely reduced, possibly due to hunting pressure, such
that from the 1960s to the 1980s wallabies were infrequently seen across much of Phillip Island. Through this time,
however, they remained numerous over Cape Woolamai and possibly other sites. During the 1990s, the wallabies
were recognised to be dispersing across Phillip Island and increasing in numbers within several bushland areas.
Population management concerns with Swamp Wallabies on Phillip Island include high tourism interest, collisions
with road traffic, browsing on revegetation sites and grazing on agricultural land. Swamp Wallabies are primarily
browsers, i.e. feed on shrubs, but will also graze, i.e. eat grasses, including introduced pasture and weeds. The actual
diet of Swamp Wallabies on Phillip Island is unknown.
No.
Actions
Goals
Partners
57
Assist with Swamp Wallaby
research and population estimates
within the Nature Parks (SP 2.2.4)
Research program commenced by
Nature Parks Research Department
by June 2013
Research Department, universities
58
Help promote the concept of
‘Living with Wildlife’ on Phillip
Island (SP 2.2.4)
One ‘Living with Wildlife’
information session held
per annum
DSE, VicRoads, DPI, BCSC, Landcare
4.3.11 Cape Barren Geese
Cape Barren Geese are native to Phillip Island. During early European settlement of Australia they were hunted
to near extinction. Numbers remained low through to about the 1980s when a management strategy was
implemented, including breeding and release programs. As a result, numbers of Cape Barren Geese have increased
throughout their range.
Population management concerns with Cape Barren Geese include high tourism interest, collisions with road traffic
and grazing and spoilage of agricultural land.
No.
Actions
Goals
Partners
59
Assist BirdLife Bass Coast to
monitor the numbers of Cape
Barren Geese across Phillip Island
(SP 2.2.4)
Counts completed every
second year
BirdLife Bass Coast
60
Help promote the concept of
‘Living with Wildlife’ on the Island
(SP 2.2.4)
One ‘Living with Wildlife’
information session held
per annum
DSE, VicRoads, DPI, BCSC, Landcare
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 21
4.4 Management of Threats to Flora and Fauna
The Nature Parks focuses heavily on protection of its key natural values through active management programs.
Ongoing protection and regulation measures must be applied to ensure that pest plants and animals are controlled
or eradicated, and that the dangers posed by fire, pollutants or people are moderated and rapidly responded to in
case of emergency.
With increasing recreational use of the Nature Parks comes an increased risk to natural values. Permits and
infrastructure are used to mitigate effects where possible. Regulations are applied to access, times and modes
of recreation for the protection of Nature Parks values. Due to the semi-urban tenure of Phillip Island, domestic
animals are a significant issue. The dramatic growth in land development on the Island over the past decade has
increased the Nature Parks’ responsibility towards providing advice and expertise towards local planning issues and
amendments on adjoining and nearby land for protection of core values.
There is a range of issues that affect the conservation and management of the Nature Parks’ fauna. While many of
these issues are within the control of the Nature Parks, the migratory nature and home ranges of much of the fauna
means that management will need to take into account factors outside Nature Parks boundaries.
Issues inside the Nature Parks include the impacts of introduced predators, especially on Little Penguins, Hooded
Plovers and other seabird colonies; fire prevention in bird colonies and rare plant communities; the impacts of
human access on the welfare of fauna, especially disturbance at breeding colonies and nesting sites and at shorebird
roosting and feeding sites.
Factors outside the Nature Parks include road kills of native mammals and birds, and injury and death of birds, mostly
young shearwaters and terns, which strike overhead power-lines, become entangled in barbed wire fences or are
hit by motor vehicles. Adjacent land use can cause habitat degradation within the Nature Parks, and inappropriate
development can degrade water catchments, which support aquatic and terrestrial flora and fauna.
Aircraft can cause disturbance to wildlife and impact on visitor enjoyment and amenity. Offshore impacts, such as
oil spills or over-fishing of food species, can have a significant impact on marine life and the food chain. Introduction
of exotic marine plants and animals and viruses, exotic plants and seeds, and soil pathogens and fungus all pose
external threats to the habitat and wildlife of the Nature Parks.
No.
Actions
Goals
Partners
61
Seek partnerships to co-ordinate
pest animal and plant programs
throughout Phillip Island (SP 2.2.1)
Develop an island-wide pest plant
and animals plan by June 2017
DPI, DSE, BCSC, Melbourne Water,
Westernport Water, Southern Rural
Water, PPWPCMA, landowners,
Landcare
62
Where appropriate, work with
adjoining landowners to maintain
the boundary fencing protecting
wildlife and habitat
No incursions of farm animals into
the Nature Parks
Landowners, BCSC, DSE
4.4.1 Weeds and Introduced Plants
Weeds are one of the most significant threats to all habitats within the Nature Parks. Environmental weeds, which can
be garden escapes, non-indigenous plantings or invasive native plants outside their natural range, are also a concern
in many parts of the Nature Parks.
Four nationally significant weeds and 24 declared noxious weeds threaten the Nature Parks, for which biological
control agents are available. Biological and manual weed control methods will be preferred and chemical control will
be used when the ecological and economic benefits outweigh any potential negative ecological impacts.
Research into the ecology and methods of dispersal of individual species will help improve the efficiency of weed
control programs. To date the impacts of feral animals on weed distribution and abundance are largely unquantified.
Proposals for developments both within the Nature Parks, such as new infrastructure, and outside the Nature Parks,
such as housing and commercial developments, may pose significant risks for the introduction of weeds.
Through working with the community and other stakeholders, the Nature Parks’ values will be protected by strategic
management of weeds, prevention of invasion by new species, and increased understanding of weed management
issues among the community, neighbours and visitors.
Page 22
Phillip Island Nature Parks
No.
Actions
Goals
Partners
63
Revise the Nature Parks Weed
Management Plan
Revised plan completed by
December 2013
DSE, BCSC, Landcare, landowners
64
50 hours of weed mapping
Continue to map the distribution
per annum
of weeds, preparing weed risk
assessments using GIS. As a
priority, monitor weeds distribution
at the interface with urban areas,
visitor sites, roadsides and coastal
areas (SP 2.1.1)
65
Provide support to local
organisations in identifying higher
quality native vegetation for
strategic weed control and safely
implementing weed management
programs (SP 2.6.1, 2.6.2)
Information provided on the
Nature Parks web page and
updated annually. Information
made available at Nature Parks
community open day
Coastcare, community groups,
Landcare
66
Assist to increase knowledge
in the community about weed
management to minimise the
spread of weeds and work in
partnership with the Nature Parks’
research team to monitor weed
control success and undertake
experimental trials to enhance
weed control (SP 2.6.1, 2.6.2)
Trials conducted as needs
are identified. Information session
held on new weeds as they are
identified
Landcare, WPB, BCSC,
Research Department
BCSC, volunteers, DSE,
DPI, Landcare
4.4.2 Feral and Domestic Animals
Feral animals can damage the cultural and natural values of Phillip Island. They may impact on flora and fauna
populations and cause erosion and the spread of weeds. Introduced birds, foxes, rabbits, hares, rats, dogs, feral cats,
fish, European bees, Pacific Oysters and other pests have been recorded within the Nature Parks. There are also
risks that species such as pigs, deer or ferrets could be released within the Nature Parks and become pests. Foxes,
rabbits, hares, feral cats and dogs are regarded as the greatest threat to park values. The Nature Parks will become
a designated control zone for the purposes of the Domestic Animals Act 1994.
The Nature Parks’ regulations and control programs have been developed and implemented in consultation with
BCSC, Landcare, farmers and the wider community and they can minimise the adverse effects of domestic and
feral animals on the natural and cultural values of the Nature Parks, and on human safety. To ensure that effective
control programs are in place, there is a need for a strategic integrated island-wide approach. Control programs
need to consider:
•How the priority of protecting the Nature Parks’ and the Island’s natural and cultural values can be achieved
•The range of habitats, differing sensitivities to disturbance, susceptibility to weed invasion, and feral animal
populations in adjoining areas
•What levels of damage or disturbance caused by feral and domestic animals are seen as unacceptable to the Nature
Parks and the wider community.
It is important to provide visitors and the local community with adequate information prior to their visits to the
Nature Parks about the potential impacts of introduced animals on environmental and social values.
No.
Actions
Goals
Partners
67
Commission an external review
of the implementation of the
current Phillip Island Nature Parks
Fox Eradication Plan and develop
an integrated pest management
plan for major feral animal species
within the Nature Parks
Review and plan completed by
June 2013
Finance, Research Departments,
Consultants
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 23
68
Commission an island-wide
integrated management plan
for vermin and feral animals and
continue to move towards a fox –
free island (SP 2.2.3)
Plan completed by June 2014
DPI, DSE, BCSC, Landcare, farmers,
community
69
Develop contingency plans
for managing introductions of
particularly high risk feral animal
species such as ferrets and pigs
(SP 2.1.1, 2.2.3)
Plan completed by June 2014
DSE, DPI, BCSC
70
Remain informed about national
research into the development
of pest animal control methods
(SP 2.1.2)
One conference attended
per annum
71
Ensure appropriate information is
made available to the Nature Parks’
visitors regarding the impacts
of feral and domestic animals
on Nature Parks values and the
preferred management actions
(SP 2.2.3)
Information provided on
Nature Parks web page and
updated annually. Information
made available at Nature Parks
community open day – once
per annum.
Marketing, Research and Education
Departments, BCSC, Landcare
72
Ensure information is available to
contractors regarding the entry of
plant, animal and soil material into
the Nature Parks (SP 2.6.1)
Contracts stipulate environmental
best practise
Operations and Finance
Departments
73
Continue to prohibit dogs on
Nature Parks land where they are
currently prohibited
Nature Parks regulations and
determinations relating to dogs
are available on the BCSC and
Nature Parks web sites. Brochures
are easily available. Annual
advertisement on dog restrictions
in local paper
DSE, BCSC
74
Assist in developing a
comprehensive plan for dog
exercise areas on Phillip Island,
including an assessment of options
for off-leash dog parks and offleash beach areas (SP 2.6.3)
Plan completed by December 2013
BCSC, PV, DSE, community,
75
Advocate for the containment
and de-sexing of cats, particularly
adjacent to critical habitat areas
(SP 2.6.3)
Undertake one joint activity per
annum with BCSC to promote cat
de-sexing, safety and containment
BCSC, community
76
Ensure control of feral and
domestic animals through the
Wildlife Act 1975 and the Catchment
and Land Protection Act 1994
(SP 2.6.3)
Continue to follow the control
methods outlined in the Acts.
Make submissions when these
Acts are reviewed
BCSC, DSE
77
Investigate if Nature Parks
enforcement officers can be
authorised under the Domestic
Animals Act 1994 (SP 2.6.3)
Complete by December 2012
At least 17 Environment rangers
qualified to enforce Nature
Parks regulations
BCSC, DSE, DPI
78
Provide adequate trained
staff resources to enforce dog
regulations throughout the Nature
Parks (SP 2.6.3)
At least 17 Environment rangers
qualified to enforce Nature
Parks regulations
BCSC, DPI
Page 24
Phillip Island Nature Parks
79
Review access for horse recreation
activities within the Nature Parks.
(SP 1.4.3)
Review completed by
December 2013
Phillip Island Pony Club, BCSC, DSE,
PV, conservation groups
80
Continue to prohibit European bee
hives within the Nature Parks and
control wild hives, especially where
they present health and safety risks
to people or wildlife
Hives of wild European bees
removed or controlled within
seven days
NA
81
Continue mosquito control in
conjunction with BCSC
Undertake mosquito control when
requested by BCSC
BCSC
4.4.3 Viruses, Bacteria and Fungi
The introduction of new non-native viruses, bacteria and fungi can damage the social and environmental values
of Phillip Island. They may impact on wildlife welfare and kill or reduce the productivity of plant species.
Viruses
The risk of disease occurring in the local fish population, resulting in a die off of the Little Penguin’s main food source,
is one of the key threats to Phillip Island’s penguins. In 1995 and 1998 a previously unknown Pilchard Herpes-virus
(PHV) killed millions of pilchards. This led to the loss of about 25 per cent of the Little Penguin population at Phillip
Island due to starvation of adults and low rates of chick production.
Some introduced species such as racing pigeons or rock doves could introduce diseases such as Paramyxovirus
(PMV1) to native birds. In addition some migratory species such as shorebirds could carry viruses such as Avian Flu.
The highly pathogenic H5N1 avian flu virus has not been detected in shorebirds in Australia to date despite extensive
testing by health authorities.
Rabbit calicivirus and myxomatosis are present in the feral rabbit populations on Phillip Island and are host select.
The viruses have had a substantial effect on the feral rabbit population when they were first introduced, but over
time rabbits have become largely immune with only 40 per cent of the wild population not being susceptible to
myxomatosis.
Bacteria
Mycobacterium ulcerans (Bairnsdale ulcer), which causes ulcers on the skin, is known to be present in the region’s soil,
and has been found in koalas and possums on Phillip Island, as well as occurring among the human population.
Diseases such as Psittacosis can be found in caged birds and have occasionally been found in parrots bought to the
Nature Parks Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. Other diseases such as Listeriosis and Salmonellosis can also occur.
Fungi
The fungus Uredo rangelii (myrtle rust) has been found on the Mornington Peninsula and 17 other sites in Victoria
(by 2012). The fungus attacks members of the Myrtaceae plant family. Myrtle rust is easily dispersed and as such
represents a significant threat to Phillip Island’s ecology.
The soil borne fungus Phytophthora cinnamomi has not been recorded on Phillip Island but presents a significant risk
to native vegetation. Many Australian native plant species, including threatened species, are susceptible. The fungus
is present at many local sites off Phillip Island and could easily be imported via infected gravel or plant material,
contaminated vehicles, bicycles or footwear. Attempts to eradicate P. cinnamomi from infected areas within mainland
Australia have so far failed.
The fungus Armillaria luteobubalina is a very active parasite, spreading underground from infected trees by dark,
string-like rhizomorphs which invade the roots of adjacent trees. The fungus causes root rot in a wide variety of
Australian native and ornamental plants and has been diagnosed at the KCC. The fungus can be introduced to new
areas through the transport of infected plants, roots or mulches. At present there is no simple method for controlling
A. luteobubalina.
Through Nature Parks regulations and control programs developed and implemented in consultation with BCSC,
Landcare, farmers and the wider community, the adverse effects of new and/or non-native insects, viruses, bacteria
and fungi on the natural and cultural values of the Nature Parks, and on human safety, will be minimised.
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 25
No.
Actions
Goals
Partners
82
Ensure third party operators have
procedures for preventing the
spread of fungus infections
(SP 2.6.1)
Contracts stipulate environmental
best practice including quarantine
hygiene and treatment with the
chemical phosphate
Operations and Finance
Departments, Contractors
83
Foster relationships with key
agencies in emergency planning on
disease risks to wildlife and public
safety (SP 2.1.2)
One staff member is on the BCSC
EMP team.
All reportable disease outbreaks
reported to DPI within 48 hours
DPI, DSE, BCSC, CFA
84
Ensure the guidelines for
prevention of transmission of
Mycobacterium ulcerans are
implemented (SP 2.1.2)
All Environment staff trained
in disease identification and
personal protection
DPI, Department of Health, Human
Resources Department
85
Assist DPI with monitoring waders
for Avian Influenza in areas such as
Observation Point (SP 2.1.2)
Participate in DPI monitoring
programs when requested
DPI, universities
86
Participate in the review of bicycle
usage as part of the island-wide
bicycle strategy to highlight
the potential spread of fungi on
footwear, bicycles etc.
(SP 1.4, 2.1.2, 2.1.5)
Review completed by
December 2013
BCSC, DSE, community
87
Plants or seeds may only be
brought into the Nature Parks to
maintain genetic viability or if
there is no suitable stock within the
Nature Parks (SP 2.1.2)
Quality control is undertaken
to ensure low risk of pathogens
and “unwanted” genetic material
entering the Nature Parks
BMBB, farmers, landowners
4.5 Habitat Protection and Risk Management
4.5.1 Fire
The early fire history for Phillip Island has not been accurately recorded. It is thought the last major wild fires on the
Island were in the 1920s. Pollen studies have shown that fires in some areas of the Nature Parks were more frequent
in pre-European times15. Since the 1920s the occurrence of a wildfire has been relatively low due to the large areas of
grazing land, effective fuel reduction programs and hazard management.
Fire can have a devastating short and long term effect on colonial nesting species such as Little Penguins and Shorttailed Shearwaters due to the synchronicity of breeding events. Even cool burns in winter can decrease burrow
density in the long term due to increased soil instability16.
Priorities for fire management have been identified in the ‘Phillip Island Nature Parks Fire Management Plan’ and the
annual Fire Operation Plans. This includes visitor and community safety, protection of life and property and the
protection of wildlife habitat. In particular, this includes Little Penguin and Short-tailed Shearwater colonies and koala
habitat.
Under the Country Fire Authority Act 1958 the Nature Parks must take all steps practicable, including preventative
burning, to prevent the occurrence of fires, and minimise the danger of the spread of fires, on and from land vested
under its management, including any roads.
No.
Actions
Goals
Partners
88
Continue liaison and joint activities
with the BCSC, DSE and the CFA
regarding fire safety, and develop
a Partnership Agreement between
the Nature Parks and DSE (SP 2.1.2)
Nature Parks three year Ecological
and Wildlife Burn Plan objectives
included in the BCSC Municipal Fire
Plan and revised every three years.
Environment staff member sits on
the BCSC MFPC
BCSC, CFA, DSE, PV
Page 26
Phillip Island Nature Parks
89
Ensure the assessment of fire
management strategies is included
in contracts for Vegetation
Management Plans (SP 2.1.2)
All assessments completed by
June 2017
Administration Department
90
Complete fuel reduction plans
and maintain documentation
of fuel reduction methods, fuel
assessments, weather conditions
and outcomes
Burn plans completed for each fuel
reduction or ecological burn
DSE, BCSC, CFA
91
Liaise with adjoining landholders
who may be affected by particular
fire management operations
All neighbours and agencies
identified in burn plans are
contacted before burning
takes place
Landholders, BCSC, VicFire, CFA
92
Monitor fire and its effects on
vegetation and wildlife (SP 2.1.2)
Incorporate any lessons learnt in
subsequent burn programs
DSE, BCSC, CFA
93
Ensure that Environment field
staff are trained in fire response
through DSE and that equipment,
PPE and machinery are maintained
to OHS standards.
Refresher training undertaken
every five years, annual exercises
completed
DSE, Human Resources Department
4.5.2 Marine Pollution
Marine pollution is a significant and real threat to natural values. Contamination of Little Penguins and other wildlife
by oil or oily substances at sea or coming ashore is one of the major risks to the colony. These pollutants are terminal
for penguins and other fauna if left untreated.
DSE is the designated wildlife response agency under the ‘Victorian Marine Pollution Contingency Plan’. The
Nature Parks maintains a store of equipment to respond to shoreline clean up as well as oiled wildlife. The Wildlife
Rehabilitation Centre has specialised equipment to clean and rehabilitate oiled seabirds.
No.
Actions
Goals
Partners
94
Agreed targets in MOU met.
Maintain an MOU between the
Nature Parks and DSE regarding the MOU renewed every three years.
Equipment audited annually
treatment of oiled marine birds at
the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre
and ongoing training of DSE, PV,
Nature Parks staff and volunteers
in the collection and treatment
of oiled wildlife, particularly Little
Penguins (SP 3.4.3, 5.2.4)
95
Maintain a database of
appropriately trained wildlife
response volunteers
Minimum of 30 volunteers trained
and identified in the database.
Database audited annually
Volunteers, DSE
96
Ensure appropriate staff are trained
in shoreline response for marine
pollution incidents
A minimum of five trained staff
maintained
DOT, DSE, AMSA, Operations
Department
97
Maintain a store of equipment for
initial shoreline response at the
Nature Parks
Equipment maintained and
audited annually
DSE, DOT, AMSA, Research
Department, volunteers
4.5.3 Aircraft
The operation of aircraft of any type at low levels has the potential to disturb communities and the values of
recreational and conservation areas. When aircraft operations occur in uncontrolled airspace (below 8,500 feet)
aircraft generally have the freedom to fly wherever they wish above 500 feet in rural areas and above 1,000 feet in
built up areas. Micro and ultra-lights are being used with increasing frequency on Phillip Island, potentially increasing
the level of noise disturbance.
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 27
A Fly Neighbourly Agreement (FNA) was developed for the Nature Parks in consultation with the aviation community
in 2005 and enacted in 2006. It is a voluntary agreement in which aircraft operators agree to operate above 1,500
feet within one nautical mile of three significant environmental areas of Phillip Island including; Cape Woolamai, Rhyll
Inlet and Summerland Peninsula and Seal Rock.
No.
Actions
Goals
Partners
98
Ensure effective communication
of the rationale for the FNA to
encourage compliance and
specifically include ultra-light
and micro-light pilot trainers in
communication plan
Improve FNA compliance.
One reminder letter to service
providers per annum
CASA, Marketing Department
4.6 Heritage Conservation
The cultural history of Phillip Island adds another rich layer to the many stories to be shared within the Nature Parks.
The Nature Parks is responsible for the management of sites, which have importance in terms of both the Island’s
indigenous history, and that of European settlement including Churchill Island.
4.6.1 Archaeological Sites
The Bunurong/Boon Wurrung people occupied Western Port and appear to have seasonally used Phillip Island17.
Over 217 registered sites have been recorded in the Nature Parks, the majority occurring along the south coast. Much
of the Phillip Island coast is an area of cultural sensitivity under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006.
Development and public access at, or near, these sites are potential major threats. Coastal processes such as wind
and water erosion and disturbance by fauna (for example nesting burrows) are further threats to these sites, but
are of less significance than human threats. Archaeological assessments will be addressed in all future Nature Parks
developments where required.
Through working with AAV, Department of Planning and Community Development, and the Bunurong/Boon
Wurrung people, the Nature Parks will ensure that archaeological sites are protected and conserved in a manner
consistent with state, and national guidelines.
No.
Actions
Goals
Partners
99
Re-survey and document known
sites and new sites as a prerequisite to development of the
key area plans
(SP 1.3.1, 1.4.2, 2.1.1, 2.1.2,)
Surveys completed by 2017
AAV, Bunurong/Boon Wurrung
people, Education Department
100
Implement management measures
that minimise visitor impacts and
other causes of damage to protect
archaeological sites
(SP 1.3.1, 1.4.2, 2.1.1, 2.1.2,)
Implement recommendations of
surveys as they become available
AAV, Bunurong/Boon Wurrung
people, PIDHS, Education
Department
101
Train Nature Parks staff
in the identification and
appropriate management
of archaeological sites
All Environment field staff trained
in identification of middens and
other archaeological sites by
June 2017
Education Department,
consultants, Bunurong/Boon
Wurrung people
4.6.2 European Historic Sites
European influence on Phillip Island commenced over 200 years ago with the activities of early sealers and the
landing of George Bass in 1798. Shortly afterwards, in 1801, Lieutenant James Grant landed on Churchill Island and
planted wheat, corn and other vegetables and built a blockhouse - establishing the first documented European crops
sown and building in Victoria.
Rogers Cottage, Amess House and the cellar and stables on Churchill Island, constructed in the 1860s-1880s, are listed
on the Victorian Heritage Register and Register of the National Estate, and are of state and national significance.
Known as the ‘Homestead Tree’, the Norfolk Island Pine located in front of the homestead was planted by Samuel
Page 28
Phillip Island Nature Parks
Amess (Sen.) to commemorate the completion of the homestead in 1872. This tree is a local landmark of regional
significance (T11064). In addition the Black Mulberry (T11063), the olive trees (T12145) and the Moonahs (T11065) are
of regional significance. The mulberry is a remnant of the orchard planted in 1880 and the olive trees were planted in
about 1890 by Samuel Amess.
A number of other historic sites exist in and adjacent to the Nature Parks, including:
•Diamond Dolly quarry site at Rhyll Inlet
•Granite quarry site (1891-92) on the east side of Cape Woolamai
•Remains of a chicory kiln and a former hall near the KCC
•Remains of a jetty built at Cat Bay in the 1920s
•Speke shipwreck of 1906 at Kitty Millers Bay
•Shipwrecks near the Nobbies and along the south coast
•Historic landscape at Summerland Peninsula spanning the early 1800s to present.
There are varying perceptions of the significance and values of historic sites among Nature Parks staff and other
stakeholders. Conservation work may include reducing impacts by restricting or limiting access to some sites,
maintaining protection from fire and working to stabilise existing structures. High costs may be associated with
implementing conservation work, such as stabilising the structural integrity of old infrastructure or undertaking
asbestos remediation works.
Churchill Island has its own friends group - The Friends of Churchill Island Society Inc. (FOCIS). This volunteer group
is dedicated to preserving and enhancing the unique history of Churchill Island and was first established in 1980.
FOCIS is active in raising funds and providing an opportunity for people interested in the historical significance and
the exquisite natural beauty of Churchill Island to get involved as guides and with other activities. The group also
provides advice and on ground assistance with the preservation of all historical aspects of the Island.
No.
Actions
Goals
Partners
102
Help ensure a register of historic
sites and conservation work
undertaken is maintained (SP 1.3.2)
Register is developed and
maintained by Churchill Island staff
Churchill Island staff,
Operations & Marketing
Departments, PIDHS, FOCIS
103
Consider interpreting and
preserving the “Koala proof fence”
erected along the Cowes/Rhyll
Road during the 1930s.
Task completed by Education
Department by June 2014
Education Department
104
Provide input to the
implementation of conservation
plans to protect and interpret
historic sites in the Nature Parks
Replies to requests for information
from the Operations and Education
Departments completed within
three days
Education, Operations and
Marketing Departments, PIDHS,
FOCIS
105
Help ensure that management and
development of Churchill Island is
compatible with the protection of
cultural values (SP 1.3.2)
Replies to requests for information
from the Operations and Education
Departments completed within
three days
Education, Operations and
Marketing Departments, Heritage
Victoria, DSE, FOCIS
106
Help ensure that management
and interpretation of Churchill
Island and its collection is through
museum standard practices
(SP 1.3.2).
Replies to requests for information
from Education Department
completed within three days
Education, Operations and
Marketing Departments,
PIDHS, FOCIS, Museum Victoria,
National Trust
107
Provide input for the establishment Replies to requests for information
from Education Department
of a Phillip Island Heritage Trail
completed within three days
(SP 2.6.4)
Education and Marketing
Departments, BCSC, PICS,
PIDHS, FOCIS
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 29
5 | Community Partnerships
5.1.1 Wildlife Rehabilitation
The Nature Parks operates a Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre located adjacent to the Penguin Parade, the main purpose
of which is to rehabilitate distressed native wildlife, particularly Little Penguins and seabirds to their natural condition
so they can be released back into the wild. These facilities are not staffed 24 hours a day; therefore it is necessary to
transfer fauna requiring intensive care to other wildlife shelters or volunteer foster carers. An after-hours volunteer
network also provides emergency transport and first-aid for wildlife in distress on Phillip Island.
Facilities for the care of sick or injured koalas are located at the KCC.
No.
Actions
Goals
Partners
108
Continue to operate the
Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre
to treat injured wildlife from
Phillip Island and seabirds from
throughout Victoria
Centre still operating in June 2017
DSE, foster carers, wildlife shelters
109
MOU with DSE renewed every
Continue to operate the Wildlife
three years
Rehabilitation Centre for injured
wildlife and seabirds in the event of
marine pollution incident/spill
110
Maintain a number of registered
volunteer foster carers assisting
with animals requiring 24 hour care
Minimum two foster carers
Volunteers, DSE
111
Maintain an appropriate number
of registered Rescue/Transport
volunteers to respond to afterhours emergencies
Minimum 12 volunteers
Volunteers, DSE
112
Maintain links with other
wildlife shelters
Contribute to DSE wildlife shelter
newsletter annually
Volunteers, DSE, Wildlife Shelters
113
Maintain an MOU with DSE to
facilitate the rehabilitation of
oiled penguins and seabirds from
Victoria
Renewed every three years
DSE
114
Increase public awareness that the
Nature Parks is responsible for the
welfare of wildlife living within its
boundaries and that wildlife living
outside the Nature Parks is the
responsibility of DSE (SP 2.6.2)
One ‘Living with Wildlife’
information session held
per annum
DSE, BCSC, VicRoads, Education
Department, PV, Landcare, Friends
and Community Groups
115
Assist with educating fishers
regarding the proper disposal of
fishing nets, fishing line, hooks
and bait bags to reduce damage
to marine life including Australian
Pelicans, Pacific Gulls, Silver Gulls,
Little Penguins and other birds
One ‘Living with Wildlife’
information session held
per annum
Education Department, PV,
community, fishers
DSE, DPI, DOT, VicRoads, BCSC, EPA,
Research Department, volunteers
5.1.2 Grants, Sponsorships and Partnerships
Due to the existence of multiple land managers on Phillip Island, partnerships need to form the basis for moving
forward. Grants have a specific outcome and provide an ideal way of bringing together all those involved. In addition,
partnerships with groups that have elected office bearers, such as Coastcare, can open up access to a wider range of
grants including the new Victorian Communities for Nature Grants.
Page 30
Phillip Island Nature Parks
Landcare
The Nature Parks supports Landcare to undertake agreed projects and objectives. These projects may include:
•Weed control - including the management of boxthorn, gorse and bridal creeper on private land adjacent to the
Nature Parks
•Control of pest animals on Phillip Island – including baiting for rabbits on private property
•Wildlife corridors on Phillip Island.
Barbara Martin Bush Bank
In 1999, the Nature Parks partnered with the Friends of the Koalas and other local organisations to establish the
Barbara Martin Bush Bank. The aim of the Bush Bank is to propagate indigenous plants from seed collected on Phillip
Island. A part-time co-ordinator is employed by the Bush Bank and is assisted by a number of dedicated volunteers.
The plants produced are purchased by groups including Landcare, the Nature Parks, Coastcare, BCSC and the general
public. The Nature Parks provides the land on which the Bush Bank operates.
Short-tailed Shearwater Rescue volunteer program
Short-tailed Shearwaters (mutton birds) are protected by international agreements and federal and state laws. During
the fledging period a significant number of juvenile birds are attracted by street lights and illuminated signs, land on
Phillip Island roads and are run over and killed. The birds also represent a danger to motorists.
A plan was developed in 1999 aimed at reducing this public risk and bird mortality. The Nature Parks, in partnership
with VicRoads, BCSC, SP AusNet, DSE and local businesses implemented a community awareness program and
nightly volunteer patrols to minimise public risk and shearwater mortality on Phillip Island and in San Remo. To
minimise the attraction of the birds to the roads, the San Remo Bridge lights are turned off for the peak duration of
the fledging for up to 10 days over the four week period with the support of SP AusNet and VicRoads.
Hooded Plover Watch
Hooded Plover Watch is a community-based initiative aimed at monitoring and improving Hooded Plover breeding
success on Phillip Island. Hooded Plovers typically nest on surf beaches in the busy summer months. They are prone
to disturbance and thus low breeding success. Volunteers help monitor nest sites and educate the public about the
importance of keeping themselves and dogs away from nesting areas. This program is conducted from late spring to
early autumn. Counts of all birds on beaches are held quarterly to monitor the species in the long term.
No.
Actions
Goals
Partners
116
Continue to apply for grants,
sponsorships and partnerships
with government agencies and to
support community groups
(SP 2.6.2)
One grant applied for each
financial year
Government agencies and
community groups
117
Continue to work with landowners
through Landcare (SP 2.6.2)
Maintain synergies with annual
Landcare works program
Landcare, landowners
118
Continue to support and work
with the Barbara Martin Bush Bank
(SP 2.6.2)
One staff member sits on
the management committee
for the BMBB
BMBB, FOK, Landcare, BCSC,
volunteers, landowners
119
Continue to support the Shorttailed Shearwater Rescue Program
(SP 2.6.2)
Annual program conducted
between April and May
BCSC, VicRoads, volunteers,
SP AusNet, PV, local businesses,
Wonthaggi Desalination Plant
120
Continue to support the Hooded
Plover Watch volunteers (SP 2.6.2)
Annual program undertaken
with volunteers
BirdLife Australia, BCSC,
volunteers, PV
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 31
Key Area Management
Page 32
Phillip Island Nature Parks
6 | Key Area Management
6.1 Introduction
This Environment Plan represents the Nature Parks’ first step in developing an ‘Assets Based Framework’.
Natural resource managers use this methodology increasingly across Victoria, including Catchment Management
Authorities, Coastal Boards, Parks Victoria and the Department of Sustainability and Environment. Different managers
are using slightly different definitions; a comparison between land managers is given below:
Natural
Resource
Manager
Term
Nature Parks Terminology
CMA description
PPWCMA
Corangamite
CMA
Site Zones and Sub-zones
Key Area (Asset)
Key Areas (Assets) and
Sub-areas
PPWCMA will be using the term Site. The Corangamite
CMA has defined 15 landscape zones for planning
purposes, based predominantly on sub-basins.
Victorian
Catchment
Management
Authority and
PPWCMA
Assets
Values
Identification and description of the region’s assets,
comprising those of international, national, state
and regional significance. These land, water and
biodiversity assets, and other landscapes, will be
defined and mapped at a scale that is appropriate for
strategic regional planning
Gippsland
Coastal Board
Asset
Key Area (Asset)
An asset is defined in this framework as: “areas that
are functionally similar and are likely to deliver a set
of ecosystem services or environmental values that
can be assessed as values within the asset class”
(habitat unit).
NaturePrint
(DSE)
Values
Values, Environmental,
Social and Economic
Biodiversity values only in NaturePrint
Applying an ‘Assets Based Framework’ framework will assist the Nature Parks to prioritise our environmental
management goals, as well as allowing synergies with regional and state strategies.
The Nature Parks will operate within Key Areas (assets); each Key Area will be further sub-divided into sub-areas. The
environmental, social and economic values of each key area will be articulated, and goals for their management will
be carefully planned, documented and implemented, taking into consideration the hierarchy of principals set out in
the Victorian Coastal Strategy, 2008 and the purpose for which the land was reserved.
Preparation of Strategic management plans for each Key Area (SP 1.3) requires information to be available on the
environmental, social and economic values of the Key Area including:
•Identification and management priorities for native vegetation and weeds
•Identification of archaeological sites and management priorities
•Assessment of fauna (native and non-native) using the area
•Assessment of wildfire risk and management options
•Assessment of recreational carrying capacity and visitor experience.
Not all this information is currently available for all Key Areas and needs to be generated over the life of the
Environment Plan.
This part of the Environment Plan will:
•Identify Key Areas (assets) that comprise the Nature Parks
•Identify Sub-areas (assets): define boundaries of Sub-areas
•Identify each Sub-area’s Values: environmental, social and economic
•Identify current and potential threats or constraints, any partnerships, shared responsibilities or relationships
that exist
•Identify knowledge and information gaps, and develop programs to address these gaps
•Establish conservation goals and measures which reflect the particular characteristics and challenges of each
Key Area and Sub-area.
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 33
6.2 Key Areas
A Key Area is defined as a geographic area (asset). Key Areas are natural elements of the environment, which have
environmental, social and/or economic values, and are spatially defined. Processes affecting the Key Area, which are
outside its boundary, are also recognised.
6.2.1 Values
In terms of the Environment Plan the inclusion of social and economic values is to assist with assessing the viability of
an environmental value for protection.
Environmental values: the environmental values associated with the Key Area, including ecosystem functions and
the natural values the Key Area contains – habitat, water filtration, significant flora or fauna, etc.
Social values: what makes the Key Area significant to the community – amenity, spiritual, recreational, etc. Social
values may also be threats to environmental values.
Economic values: the economic values the Key Area provides – including tourism, consumptive uses such as water,
resource use and productive uses, and may also be values that enable the use or protection of environmental values,
for example roads, toilet blocks, etc. Economic values are important but also need to be considered separately
because they are often threats to environmental and social values.
Workshops with Nature Parks’ staff and the local community identified seven Key Areas. Each Key Area has been
divided into a number of Sub-areas.
Values for Key Areas
Triple-bottom-line values considered for the Nature Parks Key Areas are provided in Appendix 5. These have
been derived from indicators developed for the Gippsland Coastal Board, which rely on those suggested by the
Commonwealth and the Cooperative Research Centre for Coastal Zone, Estuary and Waterway Management (CRC)
(www.ozcoats.org.au) as well as those outlined in Victoria’s Coastal Spaces policy19. Values need to be available
at the geographic scale used to define Key Areas. Values meeting these criteria have been sourced from Nature
Parks’ datasets and reports, GIS layers and reports available on the web and local knowledge held by staff and
community groups.
DSE’s NaturePrint has also been consulted in relation to value definition and valuation. NaturePrint is a mechanism
being developed by DSE to integrate and analyse statewide information available through DSE databases about
biodiversity values, threatening processes and ecosystem function at the landscape scale. NaturePrint provides
simple-to-use outputs for biodiversity decision-making including strategic planning, targeting natural resource
management, and Victorian regulatory frameworks. See: www.dse.vic.gov.au/conservation-and-environment/
biodiversity/natureprint
The values that have been included in this Plan have been workshopped during the Nature Parks’ staff, expert
committee and public consultation sessions. Additional datasets, recommended for inclusion during consultation,
have also been included or, if the dataset was not available, noted as a goal for the next five years. Further data may
also be needed to ensure the quality of data for each area is comparable.
The Nature Parks Board’s legislative responsibility covers agreements, legislation, treaties and policies that are
external to the Nature Parks and which it is required to follow as a manager of Crown Land (see policy setting). Flora
or fauna within the Nature Parks that are listed under these frameworks are allocated classifications of conservation
concern e.g. the Growling Grass Frog is listed as Vulnerable under the federal Environment Protection and Biodiversity
Conservation Act 1999 and as Threatened under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988. Both federal and state
governments have plans that identify threats, mitigation and management and recovery options.
A Summerland Peninsula
B North-West Beaches
C South Coast Beaches
D Woodlands
E Rhyll Inlet and Silverleaves Beach
F Churchill Island and Surrounds
G Cape Woolamai
Road
North
Scale 1:60,000
0
1
2km
6.2.2 Map of Key Areas
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 35
7 | Key Area A: Summerland Peninsula
A Summerland Peninsula
B North-West Beaches
C South Coast Beaches
D Woodlands
E Rhyll Inlet and Silverleaves Beach
F Churchill Island and Surrounds
G Cape Woolamai
Road
North
Scale 1:15,000
0
200 400m
Summerland Peninsula is an exposed plateau with a coastline of sandy and basalt boulder beaches and rock
platforms amongst rocky cliffs at the western end of Phillip Island; it is of high conservation significance. Seal Rock
and Black Rock are home to the second largest breeding colony of Australian Fur Seals in the world.
The Key Area contains a wide range of habitat and is of state botanical significance20 and contains a number of
BioSites. The south coast is of National Landscape Significance21 while the north coast is a coastal landscape of
state significance. The area supports the largest remaining Little Penguin colony on Phillip Island and is one of the
largest in Victoria. It is an important habitat for many other species and is a significant nesting site for migratory and
other birds.
Surveys of flora and some fauna, mapping of Little Penguin and Short-tailed Shearwater habitat as well as
archaeological sites and a fire plan have been completed. The subtidal zone between Kennon Head, Seal Rock and
Point Sambell is a Marine Special Management Area (SMA) for the protection of Little Penguins. Rock platforms within
the Nature Parks support important intertidal communities. A management plan for the SMA is currently being
prepared. The Summerland Peninsula is also home to key state tourism assets including the world renowned Penguin
Parade and the Nobbies Centre.
A large parcel of land in the centre of the Key Area was subdivided in 1927 into 776 residential lots, and ultimately
190 homes were constructed on the ‘Summerland Estate’. In 1985 the Victorian government commenced a program
to purchase privately held property within the Estate in order to protect the penguin colony. All properties were
purchased by June 2010 and a subsequent three year $3.4 million habitat restoration program was funded by the
State Government. The program included undergrounding power, demolition and removal of the last remaining
houses and redundant infrastructure, revegetation and the provision of artificial nests and pest control and will
enable the long term reclamation of critical penguin habitat.
The completion of the buy-back was also the catalyst for the development of the Summerland Peninsula Master Plan
(SP 1.1.1), which is due to be completed in 2012. The Master Plan seeks to address the role of tourism and recreation
within this highly sensitive conservation area.
Page 36
Phillip Island Nature Parks
Critical questions to be addressed include identifying the most appropriate location for the Penguin Parade Visitor
Centre, reassessing pedestrian, vehicle and recreational user access in and around the Peninsula and the Nobbies
Visitor Centre.
Further to the Master Plan, a business case seeking further funding from the Victorian Government for public
investment in capital works on the Peninsula commenced in 2012. The business case will demonstrate the
environmental, social and economic benefits to be delivered by the fulfilment of the Summerland Peninsula
Master Plan (SP 1.2.1).
In recognition of the significant surfing sites at Cat Bay and Summerland Beach, the Nature Parks and the community
are currently developing an application for these two beaches to be included in a National Surfing Reserve proposal
via the National Surfing Reserves Board (SP 2.4.1).
The invertebrate fauna and flora of the intertidal rock platforms around the Summerland Peninsula has not been
studied in detail. Bennet and Pope (1953)22 describe the zonation of intertidal rock platforms in Victoria and Synott
and Wescott (1976)23 at nearby Flinders Reef.
Local knowledge has confirmed the presence of species listed in Appendix 6.
No.
Whole Key Area Actions
Goal
Partners
121
Investigate the possible
endorsement of the Summerland
Peninsula as a Protected Area
under the IUCN. (SP 2.4.1)
Application prepared for the
Summerland Peninsula to become
an IUCN Category IV Habitat/
Species Reserve by June 2013
WPB, BCSC, BirdLife Australia,
community, DSE and
Indigenous community
122
Enhance the enduring protection of Application prepared by June 2014
the Summerland Peninsula through
National Heritage listing (SP 2.1.7)
BCSC, BirdLife Australia,
community, WPB, Heritage Victoria,
DSE and Indigenous community
123
Evaluate the likelihood of achieving Evaluation completed by June 2016
World Heritage Listing for the
Summerland Peninsula (SP 2.1.7)
WPB, BCSC, BirdLife Australia, local
community, Heritage Victoria, DSE
and Indigenous community
124
Investigate the inclusion of
the Summerland Peninsula as
a Skylight Reserve (UNESCO)
(SP 2.4.1)
Evaluation completed by June 2016
BCSC, BirdLife Australia, local
community, WPB, Heritage Victoria,
DSE and Indigenous community
125
Implement habitat restoration,
weed and feral animal
management programs to
complement the Summerland
Masterplan
See targets under section on habitat
restoration, weed control and feral
animal management
Volunteers, landowners, Landcare,
VicRoads, BCSC, contractors
126
Investigation completed by
Help investigate the viability and
impact of reintroducing indigenous June 2017
fauna and flora to the Summerland
Peninsula (SP 2.1.4)
127
Complete the requirements
of the Victorian Government’s
Summerland rehabilitation grant
All milestones completed by
June 2013
DSE, volunteers, contractors
128
Seek additional funding to
maintain conservation gains
beyond June 2013 (SP 1.2.1)
Continued improvement of habitat
quality on the Summerland
Peninsula. One grant running or
application per annum
DSE, Penguin Foundation,
government agencies
129
Continue to protect Little Penguins,
Short-tailed Shearwaters and other
fauna by restricting public access to
the Summerland Peninsula at night
Continued protection of
indigenous fauna and flora by
enforcing Nature Park regulations
and determinations
DSE, VicRoads, BCSC
130
Protect intertidal areas from
trampling by visitors
Include the negative effects of
visitation on intertidal flora and
fauna during the development
of the Nature Parks Access Policy.
Enforce Nature Park regulations
and determinations
DSE, BCSC, Community
Research Department, DSE,
Healesville Sanctuary
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 37
131
Introduce community based
ecological monitoring of the
intertidal rock platforms around
the Summerland Peninsula
Community based ecological
monitoring in place by June 2015
Research Department, DSE,
volunteers, PV, Coastcare
132
Maintain a ranger presence to
increase education and compliance
of Nature Parks regulations.
Regular patrols take place
throughout the year – at least
500 hours per annum
133
Develop a protocol for the Nature
Parks’ educational activities
to reduce the impact on the
rock platform.
Protocol completed by June 2013
Education Department
134
Consider restricting line fishing
to areas where it will minimalise
impact on wildlife such as Little
Penguins and Sooty Oystercatchers
and other birds using the intertidal
rock platforms. Public safety should
also be taken into consideration.
Effect of disturbance and
entanglement with fishing debris
to be taken into account during
development of the Nature Parks
Access Policy (December 2013)
BCSC, DSE
7.1 Sub-Area A1: Seal Rock and Black Rock
Sub-area A1 consists of two small rocky islands, Seal Rock and Black Rock, two kilometres off the tip of the
Summerland Peninsula, surrounded by rocky reefs; it is a breeding and nursery site for the Australian Fur Seal and
nesting area for the Kelp Gull.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values
•Many species observed in and around the Sub-area are listed as of conservation concern by international,
federal and state bodies:
IUCN Listed
Three bird species and the Australian Fur Seal
EPBC Protected
Forty-three bird species and the Australian Fur Seal
FFG Act Listed
Seven bird species
VAL Listed
Sixteen bird species
EVCs of conservation
Bird Colony Succulent Herbland (rare) and Estuarine Flats Grassland (endangered)
concern
•The area is an important breeding, feeding and roosting site for the Kelp Gull and Black-faced Cormorant
•The area is also an important feeding area for the Ruddy Turnstone, Sooty Oystercatcher and Pacific Gull
•The breeding colony of 25,000 - 30,000 Australian Fur Seals is the second largest in Australia
•Seal Rock is a BioSite of National Significance (Site 4661)24
•Seal Rock and Black Rock are listed on the Register of the National Estate25
•Surrounding waters are feeding areas for the Great White Shark, which is listed as vulnerable under the
EPBC Act
Social
•No landing permitted due to environmental sensitivity and human safety
•Significant views of seals from the Nobbies Centre and commercial boat tours
•Shipwreck adjacent to Seal Rock included on the Heritage Register26
•Perimeter restrictions apply to boats, jet-skis and aircraft
•Recreational boating (adjacent to Nature Parks)
Economic
•Wildlife boat tours to view seals (adjacent, restrictions apply)
•Commercial fishing (adjacent, restrictions apply)
Page 38
Phillip Island Nature Parks
Issues
•Impacts of human disturbance on seals
•Risk of disease to seals (e.g. alopecia)
•Lack of knowledge among fishers of the diet of seals leading to human seal interactions
•Potential disturbance to seals from tour boats
•Impact of marine pollution such as discarded fishing nets, bait straps, oil etc. on seals
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
Partners
135
Review actions relating to seals
in the Nature Parks’ Oiled Wildlife
Response Plan
Oiled Wildlife Response Plan
reviewed annually
DOT, DSE, DPI
7.2 Sub-Area A2: The Nobbies and South Coast
This Sub-area excludes the Nobbies Centre and associated infrastructure. The Sub-area includes Round Island, The
Nobbies (three small islands), Point Grant, and the coastline south west of Cowrie Beach, around the west tip of the
Peninsula and along the southern coast to Phelans Bluff. The largest colony of Crested Terns in Victoria breeds on the
Nobbies. The south coast supports the densest area of breeding Little Penguins in the Nature Parks. Public access to
the entire area is currently restricted to protect environmental values, Indigenous heritage and for public safety.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values
•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
One bird species
EPBC Protected
Ten bird species are protected under marine and/or migratory provisions
FFG Act Listed
Seven bird species
VAL Listed
Twelve bird species
EVCs of conservation
Bird Colony Succulent Herbland (rare) and Estuarine Flats Grassland (endangered).
concern
•The area is an important overwintering site for the Swamp Harrier from Tasmania
•Point Grant and the Nobbies to Phelans Bluff is a geological site of state significance (Site 188)27
•The north-west and southern coasts are a BioSite of national significance (Site 4735)
Social
•Currently public access to some cliff areas is restricted to protect environmental values and for public safety29
•The southern coast is a Coastal Landscape of National significance30
•Significant views of Australian Fur Seals from Point Grant
•Perimeter restrictions apply to boats, jet-skis and aircraft
•Area of cultural heritage sensitivity
•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (middens) present
•Shipwrecks adjacent to the Nobbies included on the Heritage Register31
Economic
•Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent to Nature Parks)
•Commercial fishing (adjacent to Nature Parks)
Issues
•Danger of rock fishing / sightseeing from rock platform and at the edge of cliffs- multiple human fatalities recorded
•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds (penguins and shearwaters)
•Impacts of human disturbance to cultural heritage sites
•Storm water from roadway impacting on habitat and cliffs
•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna
•Impact of roadway on habitat quality
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
Partners
136
Liaise with BCSC on improving
storm water drainage from the
South Coast Road at Phelans Bluff.
(SP 2.1.1)
Storm water run-off reduced
BCSC, DSE, VicRoads
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 39
7.3 Sub-Area A3: The Nobbies Centre
The Nobbies Centre is located at Point Grant, the south-western tip of the Summerland Peninsula. It attracts over
300,000 visitors per year, providing views of the coastline, the southern ocean and the Seal Rock seal colony.
Boardwalks and viewing platforms leading from the Centre allow visitors to experience coastal habitat, including
seabird and marine life. Little Penguins and Silver Gulls nest around the centre.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies the area surrounding the Visitor Centre as being of high Natural Values where it is
essential to protect existing values
•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
One bird species
EPBC Protected
Twenty nine bird species
FFG Act Listed
Three bird and one plant species Oxalis rubens (Dune Wood-sorrel)
VAL Listed
Five bird species
EVCs of conservation
Two plant ‘communities’: Bird Colony Succulent Herbland (rare), Estuarine Flats
concern
Grassland (endangered)
•The area is an important breeding, feeding and roosting site for the Cape Barren Goose, Little Penguin and
Silver Gull
•Point Grant and the Nobbies to Phelans Bluff is a geological site of state significance (Site 188)32
•The north-west and southern coasts are a BioSite of national significance (Site 4735)33
Social
•The Nobbies Centre (free entry) provides public facilities including toilets, souvenirs, dining opportunities
and interpretation
•Area of cultural heritage sensitivity
•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (middens) present
•Significant views of Australian Fur Seals and Bass Strait from the Nobbies boardwalks
•Shipwrecks (adjacent) included on the Heritage Register
•The southern coast is a Coastal Landscape of National significance34
•Closed to vehicles and visitors at night
Economic
•Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)
•Commercial fishing (adjacent)
•The Nobbies Centre
Issues
•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds
•Storm water from building impacting on habitat and cliffs
•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna
•Impact of roadway and car park on habitat quality
•Parking is limited and congestion occurs at peak periods, including cars parking on roadsides
•Dated infrastructure
No.
Sub-Area Actions
137
Storm water impact reduced
Investigate ways of reducing the
by June 2014
impact of storm water drainage
from the roof of the Nobbies Centre
on wildlife habitat (SP 2.1.1)
Operations Department, VicRoads
138
Input to the Master Plan competed
Investigate ways of improving
by June 2013
traffic management to reduce
habitat damage from off-road
parking in peak periods as part of
the Summerland Master Plan (SP 1.1)
Administration and Finance
Departments, community
Page 40
Phillip Island Nature Parks
Goal
Partners
7.4 Sub-Area A4: Summerland Plateau
The heart of the Summerland Peninsula is an exposed plateau dominated by Poa grassland and Melaleuca woodland.
The Sub-area includes the former Summerland Estate that is currently being restored to penguin habitat as well as
Poa grasslands in the south, which are of state significance.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of predominantly high Natural Values where it is essential to protect
existing values, as well as having patches where we can re-establish and improve habitat values including
revegetation and connectivity
•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
One bird species
EPBC Protected
Twenty-three bird and one plant species Amphibromus fluitans (River Swamp
Wallaby-grass)
FFG Act Listed
Three bird and two plant species
VAL Listed
Six bird and five plant species
EVCs of conservation
Three plant ‘communities’: Bird Colony Succulent Herbland (rare), Estuarine Flats
concern
Grassland (endangered), and Plains Grassy Woodland (endangered)
•The area is an important overwintering site for the Swamp Harrier (included above)
•The north-west and southern coasts are a BioSite of national significance (Site 4735)35
Social
•Area of cultural heritage sensitivity
•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (middens) present
•Currently limited public access
•Closed to vehicles at dusk
Economic
•Roads (adjacent)
Issues
•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds
•Impact of human disturbance to cultural sites
•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna
•Impact of roadways and traffic on habitat quality
•Impact of redundant infrastructure on wildlife
•Danger of wildfire to bird colonies
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
139
Number of plants maintained
Protect populations of
Amphibromus fluitans (River Swamp over five years
Wallaby-grass)
140
Protect nesting sites of the
Swamp Harrier and other raptors
from disturbance to prevent
chick abandonment
No nests disturbed
141
Continue restoration of the plateau
to penguin habitat and removal of
redundant infrastructure including
road lighting
Restoration continues,
including 200 hours of weed
control per annum
Partners
Volunteers, Penguin Foundation,
government agencies
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 41
7.5 Sub-Area A5: Solent Avenue to Cowrie Beach
The Sub-area consists of two sandy beaches separated by a rocky headland named Point Sambell. Shelly Beach lies in
the southern corner of Cat Bay and faces north. The beach is narrow and steep at high tide and at low tide it widens a
little and is fronted by near continuous low tide rock flats.
Cowrie Beach is a west facing sandy bay boarded by basalt rock platforms and reefs. At low tide the rock platform fills
the bay. At high tide the beach is narrow and steep. Both beaches are backed by dunes, which are nesting sites for
Little Penguins and Short-tailed Shearwaters and is a former Hooded Plover nesting site.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of predominantly high Natural Values where it is essential to protect
existing values
•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and
state bodies include:
IUCN Listed
One bird species
EPBC Protected
Twenty-four bird species and one plant species Amphibromus fluitans (River Swamp
Wallaby-grass)
FFG Act Listed
Four bird species and one plant species
VAL Listed
Nine bird species and three state listed plant species
EVCs of conservation
Five plant ‘communities’: Bird Colony Succulent Herbland (rare), Coastal Dune Scrub/
concern
Coastal Dune Grassland Mosaic (depleted), Estuarine Flats Grassland (endangered),
Plains Grassy Woodland (endangered), Bird Colony Succulent Herbland/Coastal
Tussock Grassland Mosaic (rare)
•The area is an important breeding, feeding and roosting site for the Little Penguin, Short-tailed Shearwater,
Sooty Oystercatcher and former breeding site of the Hooded Plover
•Important feeding site for the Pacific Gull and Sooty Oystercatcher
•The north-west and southern coasts are a BioSite of national significance(Site 4735)36
•The gravel terrace at Cowrie Beach is a geological site of regional significance (Site 187)37
Social
•Area of cultural heritage sensitivity
•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (midden) present
•Toilet facilities and beach access are provided at Shelly Beach
•Car parking and beach access are provided at Cowrie Beach
•Shipwreck adjacent to Cat Bay included on the Heritage Register38
•Recreational fishing at Cowrie Beach
•Surfing locations
Economic
•Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)
•Commercial fishing (adjacent)
•Nature Parks Ultimate Penguin Tour
Issues
•Impact of human disturbance, including tours, to roosting and nesting fauna
•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna
•Impact of roadways on habitat quality
•Impact of Shelly Beach toilet block on habitat
•Carrying capacity issues specifically car parking
•Impact of stormwater run-off from the former Summerland housing estate on habitat
No.
Sub-Area Actions
142
Measures to improve habitat
Investigate solutions to manage
stormwater run-off from the former identified by June 2013
Summerland housing estate into
habitat (SP 2.1.1, 2.1.2)
BCSC, VicRoads, Melbourne Water
143
Seek funding to address mitigation
measures identified above
BCSC, VicRoads, Penguin
Foundation
Page 42
Phillip Island Nature Parks
Goal
Funding to be sought during
2014-2015
Partners
7.6 Sub-Area A6: Green Lake and Flynn Dunes
Flynn Beach is the most northern beach in Cat Bay and backed by steep dunes and bluffs. Green Lake is a small
freshwater lake located behind Flynn Beach. It was once large enough to sail on and supported viable fish
populations39. Soon after European settlement the lake was filled in by the encroachment of sand from the dunes
having been destabilised by burning and the grazing of livestock and rabbits. By the 1880s it was reduced to the
ephemeral reedy wetland seen today that fills in spring, with a small stream flowing out to the shore at Flynn Beach.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of predominantly high Natural Values where it is essential to protect
existing values
•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
One bird species
EPBC Protected
Thirteen bird species
FFG Act Listed
Two bird species
VAL Listed
Two plant and nine bird species
EVCs of conservation
Six plant ‘communities’ (EVC’s) are listed as of conservation concern: Coast
concern
Banksia Woodland (vulnerable), Wetland Formation (endangered), Reed Swamp
(endangered), Estuarine Flats Grassland (endangered), Coastal Dune Scrub
(depleted), Coastal Headland Scrub (depleted)
•The area is an important breeding, feeding and roosting site for the Short-tailed Shearwater, Sooty
Oystercatcher, Hooded Plover and small numbers of Little Penguin
•The north-west and southern coasts are BioSites of national significance (Site 4735)40
•Green Lake swamp and dunes are a geological site of state significance (Site 186)
Social
•Area of cultural heritage sensitivity
•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (middens) present
•Car parking, toilet facilities and beach access are provided at Flynn Beach
•Car parking and beach access are provided at Cat Bay
•Surfing locations Flynn Beach and Cat Bay including events
•Former Cat Bay jetty (in and adjacent)
•Recreational fishing area
•Closed at dusk
Economic
•Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)
•Commercial fishing (adjacent)
Issues
•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds
•Impact of human disturbance to cultural sites
•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna
•Impact of roadways on habitat quality
•Impact of Flynn Beach toilet block on habitat
•Impact of stormwater run-off from Ventnor Road to Green Lake and the former Summerland Estate to Cat Bay on habitat
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
Partners
144
Investigate solutions to manage
storm water run-off into habitat
(SP 2.1.1, 2.1.2)
Measures to improve habitat
identified by June 2013
VicRoads
145
Seek funding to address mitigation
measures identified above
Seek funding during 2014 - 2015
VicRoads
146
Ensure that an upgrade of
toilet facilities is included in the
Summerland Master Plan
Included in Master Plan by
December 2012
Finance and Operations
Department
147
Build stairway at Flynn Beach
for habitat and archaeological
site protection
Completed by June 2017
Operations and Finance
Departments, DSE, AAV
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 43
7.7 Sub-Area A7: Penguin Parade (Summerland Bay)
Summerland Bay is a sandy beach about 1.2km long and faces south. At the eastern end are Kennon Head and
its associated rock platforms and reefs and at the western end are Phelans Bluff and associated reefs and boulder
beach. The dunes behind the beach are up to a kilometre wide and are important nesting areas for Little Penguins
and Short-tailed Shearwaters. It provides access for penguins living both in the Penguin Parade area and on the
Summerland Plateau.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of predominantly high Natural Values where it is essential to protect
existing values
•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
One bird species
EPBC Protected
Twenty seven bird species
FFG Act Listed
Two bird species
VAL Listed
Dune Wood-sorrel Oxalis rubens and eight bird species
EVCs of conservation
Six plant ‘communities’: Coast Banksia Woodland (vulnerable), Wetland Formation
concern
(endangered), Tall Marsh (depleted), Coastal Dune Scrub/Bird Colony Succulent
Herbland Mosaic (depleted), Bird Colony Succulent Herbland (rare)
•The area is an important breeding, feeding and roosting site for the Little Penguin, Short-tailed Shearwater and
Hooded Plover
•Important feeding site for the Pacific Gull and Red-capped Plover
•Part of ‘Swan Lake tombolo and dunes’ which is a geological site of state significance (Site 189)42
•Summerland Bay’s Little Penguin and Short-tailed Shearwater breeding sites are a BioSite of national
significance (Site 5155)43
•Swan Lake is a former locality for the Long-nosed Potoroo Potorous tridactylus
Social
•Area of cultural heritage sensitivity
•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (middens) present
•The Penguin Parade Visitor Centre provides public facilities including toilets, souvenirs, dining opportunities
and interpretation
•Car parking and beach access are provided at the Penguin Parade
•Significant surfing and swimming location
•The southern coastline is coastal landscape of National significance
•Phillip Island Nature Parks Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre
Economic
•Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)
•Commercial fishing (adjacent)
•Penguin Parade tourism operations and Nature Parks Administration
Issues
•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds
•Impact of human disturbance to cultural sites
•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna
•Impact of roadways, boardwalks and pathways on habitat quality
•Impact of lighting on fauna (penguins and shearwaters)
•Impact of erosion on Little Penguin access
•Dated infrastructure
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
Partners
148
Continue to manage habitat for
Little Penguins within the Penguin
Parade area
600 hours completed on habitat
management per annum
Volunteers, Research Department
149
Advocate for a study on beach
erosion to be included in the
Summerland Master Plan
Complete within the Summerland
Master Plan by June 2017
Research, Finance and Operations
Departments, contractors
150
Ensue a lighting upgrade is
included in the Summerland Master
Plan to reduce impact on penguins
Complete within the Summerland
Master Plan by June 2017
Research, Finance and
Operations Departments
Page 44
Phillip Island Nature Parks
7.8 Sub-Area A8: Swan Lake and Surrounds
Swan Lake is one of the few freshwater lakes on Phillip Island, and is surrounded by sandy dunes. Prior to European
settlement Swan Lake was open to Bass Strait, after which a sand barrier formed, creating the lake. Summerland Bay
east is included in this Sub-area.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of predominantly high Natural Values where it is essential to protect
existing values
•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
One bird species
EPBC Protected
Thirty eight bird species and one amphibian. One plant species Amphibromus
fluitans (River Swamp Wallaby-grass)
FFG Act Listed
Five bird species, one plant species, Purple Blown-grass Lachnagrosis punicea subsp.
filifolia, and one amphibian
VAL Listed
Four plant species; Creeping Rush Juncus revolutus, Dune Wood-sorrel Oxalis rubens,
Purple Blown-grass Lachnagrosis punicea subsp. filifolia, Wetland Blown-grass
Lachnagrostis filiformis var. 2. Twelve bird species and one amphibian
EVCs of conservation
Six plant ‘communities’: Coast Banksia Woodland (vulnerable), Wetland Formation
concern
(endangered), Tall Marsh (depleted), Coastal Dune Scrub/Bird Colony Succulent
Herbland Mosaic (depleted), Bird Colony Succulent Herbland (rare)
•The area is an important breeding, feeding and/or roosting site for the Little Penguin, Short-tailed Shearwater,
Musk Duck, Black-fronted Plover, Cape Barren Goose
•Important feeding or roosting site for the Pacific Gull and Royal Spoonbill,
•Swan Lake, tombolo and dunes are a geological site of state significance (Site 189)45
•Swan Lake is a BioSite of state significance (Site 4738)46
•Swan Lake is a former locality for the Long-nosed Potoroo Potorous tridactylus
Social
•Area of cultural heritage sensitivity
•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (middens) present
•Bird hides and walking paths provide viewing access to the lake
•The southern coastline is Coastal Landscape of National significance47
•Closed at dusk
Economic
•Car parking, roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)
Issues
•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds
•Impact of human disturbance to cultural sites
•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna
•Impact of roadways, boardwalks and pathways on habitat quality
•Potential impact of water impoundment and water quality up stream on Swan Lake
•Impact of illegal camping and access on habitat and fauna
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
Partners
151
Develop a management plan for
the Growling Grass Frog (SP 2.1.2)
Plan completed by June 2015
Research Department,
Melbourne Water
152
Develop management strategies
to limit the spread of Myrtaceous
shrubs and promote pre-settler
taxa such as banksias and
casuarinas (SP 2.1.2)
100 casuarina and banksia
seedlings planted each year for
five years
Volunteers, BMBB
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 45
8 | Key Area B: North-west Beaches
A Summerland Peninsula
B North-West Beaches
C South Coast Beaches
D Woodlands
E Rhyll Inlet and Silverleaves Beach
F Churchill Island and Surrounds
G Cape Woolamai
Road
North
Page 46
Scale 1:8,000
0
Phillip Island Nature Parks
200
400m
Between the boundary of the Nature Parks at Devon Avenue and Flynn Beach the coast tends in a south westerly
direction. There are four prominent grassy bluffs 20 to 30 metres high opposite four reefs: Hen and Chicken, Angelina,
Tyro and Flynn. Between the bluffs are west facing sandy beaches backed by low dunes with small lagoons on private
farmland, Flynn and McHaffie behind Farm and Woolshed beaches. Beaches are backed by private farmland and
public access is limited to walking along the beach.
The area supports nesting Hooded Plovers, Short-tailed Shearwaters, Sooty Oystercatchers and over wintering
Hooded Plovers, as well as vegetation of state significance. The area under the Nature Parks’ management is a
narrow linear coastal strip, with little buffering, which increases the impacts from areas outside the Nature Parks and
makes effective long term management difficult. To date neither detailed studies of flora, fauna or cultural sites have
been undertaken.
No.
Whole Key Area Actions
Goal
Partners
153
Develop a Key Area Management
Plan for the North-west Beaches
(SP 1.3.7, 2.1.1)
Complete surveys by end of
June 2017
BirdLife Australia, BCSC, Landcare,
community, WPB, DSE, Research
Department
154
Actively engage volunteers in
management of the area (SP 2.1.1)
Undertake three joint habitat days
per year
Coastcare Groups, volunteers
155
Develop an ‘Action Procedure for
Encroachment’ for areas where
private structures such as drains,
sheds and lawn areas are intruding
into the Nature Parks (SP 2.1.1)
Policy developed by end of June
2013 and enacted by June 2017
BCSC, DSE
8.1 Sub-Area B1: Devon Avenue to Cadogan Avenue
Hen and Chicken Beach is named after the offshore reef of the same name. It extends from Grossard Point 150 metres
south. The area from Devon Avenue south is within the Nature Parks. The beach is narrow and relatively steep and
the reef platform is exposed along the length of the beach at low tide. Steep dunes that are nesting areas for Shorttailed Shearwaters back the beach. The two boardwalks and staircases adjacent provide access to Devon Avenue and
at the southern end of Cadogan Avenue.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of predominantly high Natural Values where it is essential to
protect existing values, but the surrounding developed land means there are less opportunities to
improve connectivity
•Many species observed in the Sub-area are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and
state bodies
IUCN Listed
One bird species
EPBC Protected
Five bird species
FFG Act Listed
Two bird species
VAL Listed
Eight bird species
EVCs of conservation
Two plant ‘communities’: Coast Banksia Woodland (rare) and Swamp Scrub
concern
(endangered)
•The area is an important breeding, feeding and roosting site for the Hooded Plover and Short-tailed Shearwater
•The north-west and southern coasts are a BioSite of national significance (Site 4735)48
Social
•Public access restricted as most of the coastline abuts farmland
•Shipwrecks included on the Heritage Register (adjacent)
•Surfing locations (on some tides)
•Area of cultural heritage sensitivity
Economic
•Roads, boardwalks and walking paths (in and adjacent)
•Commercial fishing (adjacent)
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 47
Issues
•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds
•Storm water from roadway and houses impacting on habitat
•Encroachment affecting habitat values
•Impact of weeds and feral and domestic animals on flora and fauna and visual landscape
•Impacts of coastal erosion
•Dumping of garden waste within the Nature Parks
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
Partners
156
Liaise with BCSC on improving
storm water drainage from
Cadogan Avenue (SP 2.1.1)
Management of storm
water improved
BCSC, DSE, community
8.2 Sub-Area B2: Woolshed Bight to Flynn Reef
The main beaches in this area are Woolshed Bight and Farm Beach. Between the bluffs are west facing sandy beaches
backed by low dunes with small lagoons, Flynn and McHaffie behind Farm and Woolshed Beaches. Access is walking
only, either from Flynn Beach car park or Devon Avenue car park.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of predominantly high Natural Values where it is essential to protect
existing values, but the surrounding developed land means there are less opportunities to improve connectivity
•Species observed in the Sub-area listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
One bird species
EPBC Protected
Eight bird species
FFG Act Listed
Two bird species
VAL Listed
Two plant species Oxalis rubens (Dune Wood-sorrel) (r), Cardamine tenuifolia (Slender
Bitter Pea) (i) and five bird species
EVCs of conservation
Four plant ‘communities’: Coastal Dune Scrub/Coastal Dune Grassland Mosaic
concern
(depleted), Coastal Headland Scrub (depleted), Coastal Dune Grassland (depleted),
and Swamp Scrub (endangered)
•The area is an important breeding, feeding and roosting site for the Hooded Plover and Short-tailed
Shearwater (included above)
•McHaffie Lagoon and Flynn Lagoon are sites of regional geological significance (Sites 184, 185)
(outside Nature Parks)
•The north-west and southern coasts are a BioSite of national significance (Site 4735)49
Social
•Public access restricted due to coastline abutting farmland
•Shipwrecks included on the Heritage Register (adjacent)
•Surfing locations (adjacent, on some tides)
•Area of cultural heritage sensitivity (in and adjacent)
Economic
•Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)
•Commercial fishing (adjacent)
Page 48
Phillip Island Nature Parks
Issues
•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds
•Storm water from roadway and houses impacting on habitat
•Encroachment affecting habitat values
•Impact of weeds and feral and domestic animals on flora and fauna
•Impacts of coastal erosion
•Dumping of garden waste within the Nature Parks
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
Partners
157
Resolve the management of Crown
land with high conservation values
near McHaffie Lagoon (SP 2.1.3)
Complete by end of June 2017
DSE, landowners
158
Map boxthorn and other
significant weeds
Mapping completed by June 2014
159
Develop a cross tenure weed
management plan for dune areas
in conjunction with Landcare and
adjacent landowners
Plan completed by June 2015
and actions commenced by
December 2015
Landcare, landowners
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 49
9 | Key Area C: South Coast Beaches
A Summerland Peninsula
B North-West Beaches
C South Coast Beaches
D Woodlands
E Rhyll Inlet and Silverleaves Beach
F Churchill Island and Surrounds
G Cape Woolamai
Road
North
Scale 1:18,000
0
200
400m
A Summerland Peninsula
B North-West Beaches
C South Coast Beaches
D Woodlands
E Rhyll Inlet and Silverleaves Beach
F Churchill Island and Surrounds
G Cape Woolamai
Road
North
Page 50
Scale 1:18,000
0
200
400m
Phillip Island Nature Parks
The South Coast Beaches Key Area extends from Kennon Head to the eastern end of the Colonnades and is of
state botanical significance for its disturbed remnants of Coastal Tussock Grassland and rare or threatened flora.
Rock platforms support important intertidal communities (outside the Nature Parks). The area under Nature Parks’
management is a fragmented, narrow linear coastal strip, with little buffering, which increases the impacts from areas
outside the Nature Parks and makes effective long term management difficult.
No.
Whole Key Area Actions
Goal
Partners
160
Help develop a Key Area
Management Plan for the South
Coast Beaches (SP 1.3.6, 2.1.1)
Completed by June 2017
BCSC, BirdLife Australia,
community, WPB, DSE, AAV
161
Coastcare or similar group
Actively engage or encourage the
establishment of Coastcare or other established by June 2014
community groups in areas where
they do not currently operate
(SP 2.1.1)
162
Encourage adjoining landowners
and managers to develop wildlife
corridors or shelter belts adjacent
to and linking coastal areas
(SP 2.1.1, 2.2.2)
Funding / assistance provided
for the development of wildlife
corridors and shelterbelts on
private property
Landcare, landowners
volunteers
163
Include informal tracks in islandwide access review (SP 2.1.1)
Review completed by
December 2013
BCSC, DSE, community,
landowners, AAV
164
Work with visitors, residents and
holiday home renters to reduce
the negative impacts of domestic
animals and cars on wildlife
Coordinated program with BCSC
set up by June 2014
BCSC, residents, holiday
rentals, visitors
165
Work with adjoining landowners
to reduce the movement of feral
animals and weeds into the Nature
Parks from other areas and vice
versa (SP 2.1.1)
Coordinated program with BCSC
set up by June 2014
BCSC, adjoining
landowners, Landcare
166
Maintain relationships with
community groups to assist with
cross-tenure weed control and revegetation programs
Three habitat days per
annum conducted
BCSC, landowners, Coastcare and
other community volunteers
Community, DSE
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 51
9.1 Sub-Area C1: Kitty Millers Bay (Kennon Head to Watts Point)
Kitty Millers Bay Sub-area extends 500 metres from the west side of Kennon Head to Watt Point. It is a reasonably
sheltered bay with rock platforms and reefs which become exposed at low tide. Hooded Plovers and Short-tailed
Shearwaters nest along this section of coast.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of predominantly high Natural Values where it is essential to
protect existing values, but the surrounding developed land means there are less opportunities
to improve connectivity
•Species observed in the Sub-area are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and
state bodies
IUCN Listed
One bird species
EPBC Protected
Ten bird species
FFG Act Listed
Two bird species
VAL Listed
Sixteen bird species
EVCs of conservation
Three plant ‘communities’: Coastal Tussock Grassland (vulnerable), Bird Colony
concern
Succulent Herbland (rare), Coastal Dune Scrub/Bird Colony Succulent Herbland
Mosaic (depleted)
•The area is a breeding, feeding and roosting site for the Hooded Plover, Sooty Oystercatcher and Short-tailed
Shearwater (included above)
•The area is a feeding area for the Ruddy Turnstone, Sooty Oystercatcher and Red-necked Stint (included above)
•Former Little Penguin colony (last seen 1935)
•Kitty Millers Bay is a geological site of state significance (Site 190)50
•Secondary breeding areas on the coast of Phillip Island and Swan Lake are BioSites of state significance (Sites
1567 and 4738)
Social
•Swimming beach at high tide
•Recreational fishing (spearfishing, adjacent)
•Area of cultural sensitivity
•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (middens) present
•The southern coastline is Coastal Landscape of National significance51
•Diving and surfing location off shore
Economic
•Road access, car park, and staircase to beach
•Commercial fishing off shore (restrictions apply)
•Tour operators conducting snorkelling activities (adjacent)
Issues
•Impacts of human disturbance
•Vegetation in poor condition in some areas
•Illegal overnight camping (no public amenities)
•Potential overuse of rock platform by school groups (no permits required)
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
Partners
167
Upgrade the western staircase
to improve access
Completed by June 2013
DSE, Operations Department
168
Map Short-tailed Shearwater
colony and develop a
management plan
Completed by June 2013
BCSC, DSE, landowners,
community, Administration,
Education, Research and
Operations Departments
169
Develop a vegetation and weed
management plan for the Sub-site
Plan completed by June 2014
Consultants, community
170
Canvas interest of local residents
in forming a Coastcare or Friends
Group (SP 2.1.1)
Group formed by June 2014
Community, Coastcare
171
Continue to report illegal
overnight parking/camping in
Kitty Millers Bay car park to BCSC
enforcement officers
Nightly patrols conducted by
Gate Rangers to check on car park
and report to BCSC if enforcement
is needed
BCSC
Page 52
Phillip Island Nature Parks
9.2 Sub-Area C2: Thorny Beach and Hutchinson Beach (Watts Point
to Wild Dog Bluff)
This Sub-area extends from Watt Point in the west to Wild Dog Bluff in the east. Hutchinson and Thorny Beaches are
separated by Helen Head and are backed by dune systems and steep, grassy bluffs. Both beaches are sandy, gently
sloping and have rock platforms.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of predominantly high Natural Values where it is essential to protect
existing values, while there are some opportunities to improve connectivity the surrounding developed land
means these are less than in some other areas
•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
One bird species
EPBC Protected
Ten bird species
FFG Act Listed
Two bird species
VAL Listed
Five bird species
EVCs of conservation
Two plant ‘communities’: Coastal Tussock Grassland (vulnerable), Bird Colony
concern
Succulent Herbland (rare)
•The bays are an important breeding, feeding and roosting sites for the Hooded Plover, Short-tailed Shearwater,
Sooty Oystercatcher, Kelp Gull, Pacific Gull, Pied Oystercatcher, and Peregrine Falcon.
•Native Dog Creek to Thorny Beach is a geological site of national significance (Site 191)52
•The north-west and southern coasts are a BioSite of national significance (Site 4735)53
Social
•No public access permitted due to environmental sensitivity and human safety
•Shipwrecks (adjacent) included on the Heritage Register54
•Area of cultural sensitivity
•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (middens) present
•The southern coastline is Coastal Landscape of National significance55
Economic
•Commercial fishing (offshore from Nature Parks)
Issues
•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds
•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna
•Incursion of livestock into the Nature Parks
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
Partners
172
Develop a management plan for
Thorny and Hutchinson beaches
including mapping weeds,
vegetation and cultural assets
(SP 1.3.6, 2.1.1)
Completed by June 2017
BCSC, DSE, landowners,
community, Administration,
Education, Research and
Operations Departments
173
With adjacent landowners ensure
fencing is maintained reducing
livestock incursion
No livestock incursions over
five years
Landowners
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 53
9.3 Sub-Area C3: Berry Beach
The Berry Beach Sub-area extends from Wild Dog Bluff to the west and Redcliff Head to the east. Berry Beach is a
sandy beach about one kilometre long with rock platforms and rocky reefs. Native Dog Creek mouth is found at
the western end. Dune systems, rocky cliffs and grassy bluffs back Berry Beach. Hooded Plovers and Short-tailed
Shearwaters nest along this section of coast. No information is available on rare flora in this area.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of predominantly high Natural Values where it is essential to protect
existing values; opportunities exist to improve connectivity for some patches
•Native Dog Creek which is unallocated Crown land adjacent to the Nature Parks has extensive areas of
native vegetation
•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
One bird species
EPBC Protected
Eight bird species
FFG Act Listed
Two bird species
VAL Listed
Eight bird species
EVCs of conservation
Five plant ‘communities’: Swamp Scrub (endangered), Coastal Tussock Grassland
concern
(vulnerable), Bird Colony Succulent Herbland (rare), Coastal Dune Grassland (rare),
and Bird Colony Succulent Herbland/Coastal Tussock Grassland Mosaic (rare)
•The area is an important breeding, feeding and roosting site for the Short-tailed Shearwater and Hooded Plover
(included above)
•Native Dog Creek to Thorny Beach is a geological site of national significance (Site 191)56
•The north-west and southern coasts are a BioSite of national significance (Site 4735)57
Social
•Area of cultural sensitivity
•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (middens) present
•The southern coastline is Coastal Landscape of National significance58
•Road, car parks and amenities available
•Surfing location on some tides
•Walking track to Pyramid Rock
•Swimming, rock pooling, diving (adjacent to Park)
•Short-tailed Shearwater viewing
Economic
•Road access, car parking and staircase to beach (in and adjacent)
•Commercial fishing (adjacent)
Issues
•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds
•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna
•Impact of roadway on habitat quality
•Car parking is limited
•Informal access tracks
•Issues regarding the management of Crown land including Native Dog Creek
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
Partners
174
Develop a Management Plan for
Berry Beach (SP 1.3.6, 2.1.1)
Completed by June 2017
BCSC, DSE, landowners,
community, Administration,
Education, Research and
Operations Departments
175
Resolve management of Native
Dog Creek including appropriate
areas of responsibility
Completed by June 2017
DSE, BCSC, adjacent landowners
176
Canvas interest of local residents in
developing a Coastcare Group
Interest determined by June 2015
Community and landowners
Page 54
Phillip Island Nature Parks
177
Liaise with residents regarding
the prevention of informal access
tracks from the new housing
development in Glamis Road to the
beach (SP 2.1.1)
No damage to Short-tailed
Shearwater and Hooded Plover
nests or flora
Residents, BCSC
178
Assess the need to upgrade the
Pyramid Rock to Berry Beach
walking track
Completed by June 2017
DSE
9.4 Sub-Area C4: Pyramid Rock
The Pyramid Rock Sub-area extends from Redcliff Head at the end of Berry Beach eastwards. The Sub-area
encompasses Storm Bay, a headland with Pyramid Rock offshore, and 20-30 metre high rocky cliffs with rock
platforms below. Short-tailed Shearwaters and Sooty Oystercatchers nest along this section of coast.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of predominantly high Natural Values where it is essential to protect
existing values. There are also opportunities to improve connectivity with the surrounding area
•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
NA
EPBC Protected
Twelve bird and one plant species Amphibromus fluitans (River Swamp
Wallaby- grass)
FFG Act Listed
One bird species
VAL Listed
Dune Wood Sorrel Oxalis rubens, Coastal Ballart Exocarpus syrticola and five
bird species
EVCs of conservation
Four plant ‘communities’: Swamp Scrub (endangered), Plains Grassy
concern
Woodland (endangered), Coastal Tussock Grassland (vulnerable), Bird Colony
Succulent Herbland (rare), Coastal Headland Scrub/Coastal Tussock Grassland
Mosaic (depleted)
•The area is an important breeding, feeding and/or roosting site for the Short-tailed Shearwater, Black-faced
Cormorant, Sooty Oystercatcher (included above)
•Redcliff Head (regional) and Pyramid Rock (state) are geological sites of significance (Site 192 and 193)59
•The north-west and southern coasts are a BioSite of national significance (4735)60
•Little Penguins last recorded breeding at Pyramid Rock in 1972
Social
•Area of cultural sensitivity
•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (middens) present
•The southern coastline is Coastal Landscape of National significance61
•Roads, car parks and amenities available
•Walking track to Berry Beach
•Diving locations nearby
Economic
•Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)
•Commercial fishing (adjacent)
Issues
•Impact of human disturbance to habitat, roosting and nesting birds
•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna
•Impact of roadways on habitat quality
•Impact of people accessing the rock platform through the Nature Parks
•Westernport Water sewerage outlet off shore from Pyramid Rock
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 55
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
Partners
179
Develop a Management Plan for
Pyramid Rock including a review of
interpretive signage (SP 1.3.6, 2.1.1)
Completed by June 2017
BCSC, DSE, landowners,
community, Administration,
Education, Research and
Operations Departments
180
Minimise damage to Nature
Liaise with BCSC regarding the
closure of roads during the Pyramid Parks assets
Rock Festival or similar events held
on land adjacent to the Nature
Parks to protect the Sub-areas
values
BCSC, event organisers
181
Liaise with event organisers
regarding potential impacts of the
Pyramid Rock Festival or similar
events held on land adjacent to the
Nature Parks to protect the Subareas values
Minimise damage to Nature
Parks assets
BCSC, event organisers
9.5 Sub-Area C5: Pyramid Rock to YCW Beach
The Pyramid Rock to YCW Sub-area includes Cunningham Bay to the bluff west of YCW Beach. The coastline is
dominated by 20 - 40 metre high basalt cliffs and bluffs, fronted by rock platforms and reefs. Sooty Oystercatchers
nest along this section of coast.
The Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit abuts this Sub-area and is recognised in the BCSC planning scheme as Special Use
Zone and is a site of state significance for its contribution to Victorian tourism and events. Other land adjacent to the
Grand Prix Circuit and abutting the Nature Parks in this Sub-area is used for festivals, camping, adventure activities,
car parking and farming.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of predominantly high Natural Values where it is essential to
protect existing values. There are also many opportunities to improve habitat and connectivity with the
surrounding area
•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
NA
EPBC Protected
Twelve bird species and Amphibromus fluitans (River Swamp Wallaby-grass)
FFG Act Listed
One bird species
VAL Listed
Dune Wood Sorrel Oxalis rubens, Pale-flower Cranesbill Geranium Sp. 3 and five
bird species
EVCs of conservation
Six plant ‘communities’: Swamp Scrub (endangered), Plains Grassy Woodland
concern
(endangered), Swamp Scrub Plains Grassy Woodland Mosaic (endangered),
Coastal Tussock Grassland (vulnerable), Coastal Headland Scrub (depleted), Coastal
Headland Scrub/Coastal Tussock Grassland Mosaic (depleted)
•The area is an important breeding, feeding and/or roosting site for the Short-tailed Shearwater, Black-faced
Cormorant, Sooty Oystercatcher (included above)
•Cunningham Bay and Jessie Island are sites of regional geological significance (Site 194)
•Secondary breeding areas on the coast of Phillip Island and Swan Lake are a BioSite of state significance
(Site 1567)
Social
•Area of cultural sensitivity
•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (middens) present
•The southern coastline is Coastal Landscape of National significance62
•Road and amenities available
•Walking track to Berry Beach
•Diving locations (adjacent)
•Surfing (adjacent)
•Recreational rock fishing / spear fishing (adjacent)
Economic
•Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)
•Commercial fishing (adjacent)
•Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit (adjacent land)
•Events and festivals (adjacent land)
Page 56
Phillip Island Nature Parks
Issues
•Impact of human disturbance to habitat, roosting and nesting birds
•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna
•Impact of roadways on habitat quality
•Impact of people accessing the rock platform through the Nature Parks
•Unofficial walkways or beach access
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
Partners
182
Maintain relationships with
adjoining landowners and
managers for weed and feral
animal control
Ongoing collaboration and
access for Nature Parks
rangers maintained
Landowners, Phillip Island
GP Circuit
183
Minimise damage to Nature Parks
Liaise with BCSC regarding the
closure of roads during the Pyramid values
Rock Festival or similar events to
protect the Sub-areas values
184
Continue to liaise with organisers
regarding potential impacts of the
Pyramid Rock Festival or similar
events on the Sub-areas values
Minimise damage to Nature
Parks values
BCSC, event organisers
BCSC, event organisers
9.6 Sub-Area C6: YCW Beach and Smiths Beach
This Sub-area extends from the bluff to the west of YCW Beach to Express Point in the east. YCW is the acronym
for the Young Christian Workers Camp, which is situated in the hinterland immediately behind the beach and was
opened by the 3rd Catholic Archbishop of Melbourne, Daniel Mannix, in 1951.
The sandy beach is backed by 10-30 metre high bluffs and has basalt headlands and rock platforms at each end.
This is a high impact recreation area with a housing estate nearby. Short-tailed Shearwaters nest in the dunes at the
western end of the beach.
Smiths Beach is sandy and is backed by dunes and 20 metre bluffs behind the centre of the beach. This is a very
popular beach which is patrolled by Surf Life Saving Victoria, and subsequently is a high impact recreation area.
Short-tailed Shearwaters nest in the surrounding dunes.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of some high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing
values. There are also patches with low Natural Values due to development of infra-structure. There are some
opportunities to improve habitat and connectivity with the surrounding area.
•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
One bird species
EPBC Protected
Six bird species and Amphibromus fluitans (River Swamp Wallaby-grass)
FFG Act Listed
One bird species
VAL Listed
Pale-flower Cranesbill Geranium Sp. 3 and four bird species
EVCs of conservation
Six plant ‘communities’: Swamp Scrub (endangered), Plains Grassy Woodland
concern
(endangered), Swamp Scrub Plains Grassy Woodland Mosaic (endangered),
Coastal Tussock Grassland (vulnerable), Coastal Headland Scrub (depleted),
Coastal Headland Scrub/Coastal Tussock Grassland Mosaic (depleted)
•The area is an important breeding, feeding and/or roosting site for the Short-tailed Shearwater
•Smiths Beach –quartzite (state, 196) and Sunderland Bay (regional, 197) are geological sites of significance63
•The north-west and southern coasts are a BioSite of national significance (Site 4735)64
•Hooded Plover last recorded breeding at Smiths Beach in 1991/92
•Little Penguin last recorded breeding at Smiths Beach in 1978
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 57
Social
•Area of cultural sensitivity
•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (middens) present
•The southern coastline is Coastal Landscape of National significance65
•Road, car parks and amenities available at both Smith’s and YCW beaches (BCSC)
•Diving and surfing locations (adjacent)
•Active community environment groups
•Disabled access ramp at Smiths Beach
Economic
•Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)
•Commercial fishing (adjacent)
•Surf Life Savers available in summer months
•Built up areas provide shops
•Tour operators conducting surfing schools
•Car parking and toilets adjacent – managed by BCSC
Issues
•Impact of human disturbance to habitat, roosting and nesting birds
•Impact of human disturbance on dunes and flora
•Impact of weeds on native flora
•Impact of domestic animals on fauna particularly Hooded Plover, Short-tailed Shearwaters and wallabies
•Impact of roadways on habitat quality
•Use of the rock platforms by school groups without permits (outside the Nature Parks)
•Carrying capacity in the car parks managed by BCSC
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
Partners
185
Review and upgrade fencing along
the front of the dunes to prevent
damage by visitors
Annual inspection and
repair undertaken
Volunteers, DSE
186
Liaise with key agencies to
minimise impacts of commercial
activities on visitor enjoyment,
natural assets and infrastructure
(SP 2.1.1)
Minimise damage to Nature
Parks values
DSE, BCSC
187
Investigate the impact of the
overflow drain from the Smiths
Beach Parkland and Drainage
Reserve on native vegetation
within the Nature Parks and
negotiate remediation if required
(SP 2.1.1)
Investigation completed by
June 2014
BCSC
188
Review dog regulations and
possible off-leash dog areas as part
of the island-wide access review
(SP 1.5.2, 2.6.2)
Review completed by
December 2013
BCSC, DSE, PV, community
Page 58
Phillip Island Nature Parks
9.7 Sub-Area C7: Sunderland Bay to Surfies Point
This Sub-area extends from Express Point in the west to Surfies Point in the east. Sunderland Bay is a cove amongst
basalt cliffs that consists of sand and basalt cobbles. A rock stack in the centre of the bay is a popular roosting area for
Pacific Gulls and cormorants. From Sunderland Bay to Surfies Point are rock platforms backed by steep cliffs, with a
small beach west of Surfies Point. The area is popular for recreational activities such as surfing and fishing.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values.
There are opportunities to improve habitat and connectivity with the surrounding area
•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
One bird species
EPBC Protected
Three bird species
FFG Act Listed
One bird species
VAL Listed
Five plant species; Beaded Glasswort Sarcocornia quinqueflora, Dune Poa Poa
poiformis var ramifer, Dune Wood Sorrell Oxalis rubens, Sand Brome Bromus arenarius,
Sea Nymph Amphibolis antarctica (rock pools) and four bird species
EVCs of conservation
Five plant ‘communities’: Swamp Scrub (endangered), Plains Grassy Woodland
concern
(endangered), Bird Colony Succulent Herbfield (rare), Coastal Tussock Grassland
(vulnerable), Coastal Headland Scrub/Coastal Tussock Grassland Mosaic (depleted)
•The area is an important breeding, feeding and/or roosting site for the Short-tailed Shearwater, Black-faced
Cormorant, Pacific Gull (included above)
•Sunderland Bay cliff-stacks (regional 197) and Surfies Point cliff top dunes (regional, 198) are geological sites
of significance66
•Secondary breeding areas on the coast of Phillip Island and Swan Lake are BioSites of State significance
(Site 1567)
•Little Penguin last recorded breeding at Surf Beach in the 1980s
Social
•Area of cultural sensitivity
•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (middens) present
•Road, car parking available
•Diving and surfing locations (adjacent)
•Active community environment groups
Economic
•Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)
•Commercial fishing (adjacent)
•Car parking (adjacent)
Issues
•Impact of human disturbance to habitat, roosting and nesting birds
•Impact of human disturbance on dunes and flora
•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna
•Impact of roadways on habitat quality
•Impact of unformed pathways on flora, fauna and archaeological sites
•Impact of inappropriately located and ageing infrastructure
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
Partners
189
Liaise with BCSC regarding the
proposed review of the impact of
storm water run-off from roads on
cliff stability (SP 2.1.1)
Minimise damage to Nature
Parks values
BCSC, landowners
190
Review and upgrade fencing along
the front of the dunes
Annual inspection and
repair completed
Community groups, DSE
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 59
191
Complete a boardwalk between
Sunderland Bay Road and Surfies
Point to formalise access in this
area and protect flora and Shorttailed Shearwaters (SP 2.1.1)
Completed by December 2013
DSE, BCSC, community groups
192
Review dog regulations and
possible off-leash dog areas as part
of the island-wide access review.
Completed by December 2013
BCSC, DSE, PV, community
9.8 Sub-Area C8: Surfies Point to Bruce Avenue
This Sub-area starts at Surfies Point in the west and continues to Bruce Avenue access track at Forrest Caves in
the east. This Sub-area includes Surf Beach and nick-named beach ‘Crazy Birds’ which are located between basalt
and calcarenite rock platforms and reefs. The area is popular recreational area. Hooded Plovers and Short-tailed
Shearwaters nest along this coast.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of some high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values.
There are no areas where connectivity can be improved due to the development of the surrounding area
•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
One bird species
EPBC Protected
Six bird species
FFG Act Listed
One bird species
VAL Listed
Two plant species Dune Wood Sorrell Oxalis rubens, Austral Trefoil Lotus australis and
nine bird species
EVCs of conservation
Three plant ‘communities’: Swamp Scrub (endangered), Coastal Tussock Grassland
concern
(vulnerable), Coastal Alkaline Scrub/Bird Colony Succulent Herbland Mosaic
(vulnerable)
•The area is an important breeding, feeding and/or roosting site for the Short-tailed Shearwater, Hooded Plover
and Pacific Gull (included above)
•Surfies Point cliff top dunes are a regional geological site of significance (Site 198)67
•The north-west and southern coasts are a BioSite of national significance (Site 1567)68
Social
•Area of cultural sensitivity
•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (middens) present
•Road, car parking available
•Surfing locations (adjacent)
•Active community environment groups
Economic
•Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)
•Commercial fishing (adjacent)
•Car parking (adjacent)
•Built up area, shops close by
Issues
•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds
•Impact of human disturbance on dunes and flora
•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna
•Impact of roadways on habitat quality
•Impact of unformed pathways on flora, fauna and archaeological sites
•Impact of domestic animals on fauna particularly Hooded Plover, Short-tailed Shearwaters and wallabies
Page 60
Phillip Island Nature Parks
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
Partners
193
Review and upgrade fencing along
the front of the dunes
Annual inspection and
repair completed
DSE
194
Investigate the need for a
boardwalk and staircase to the
beach at the end of Bruce Avenue
to formalise access in this area and
protect flora, archaeological sites
and Short-tailed Shearwaters and
improve public safety (SP 2.1.1)
Completed by June 2017
DSE, BCSC, local residents
9.9 Sub-Area C9: Forrest Caves
This Sub-area extends from the Bruce Avenue access track in the west to the headland in the east separating Forrest
Caves from The Colonnades. Forrest Caves is a small but environmentally significant area with much pressure from
recreation and boundary effects. Forrest Caves contains a large Short-tailed Shearwater colony, remnant Moonah
(Melaleuca lanceolata) woodland, and is a Hooded Plover breeding beach and wintering site. The caves also have
significant cultural heritage.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values.
There are many opportunities to improve habitat and connectivity with the surrounding area
•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
One bird species
EPBC Protected
Twelve bird species
FFG Act Listed
Four bird species and one plant community, Coast Moonah Woodland
VAL Listed
Dune Wood Sorrell Oxalis rubens, Austral Trefoil Lotus australis and nine bird species
EVCs of conservation
Three plant ‘communities’: Coast Moonah Woodland (endangered), Swamp Scrub
concern
(endangered) Coastal Alkaline Scrub/Bird Colony Succulent Herbland Mosaic
(vulnerable)
•The area is an important breeding, feeding and/or roosting site for the Short-tailed Shearwater, Hooded Plover
and Pacific Gull (included above)
•Forrest Bluff and Forest Caves are geological sites of regional significance (Site 199) 69
•The north-west and southern coasts are a BioSite of national significance (Site 4735)70
Social
•Area of cultural sensitivity
•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (middens) present
•Road, car parking and amenities available at Forrest Caves
•Surfing locations (adjacent)
Economic
•Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)
•Commercial fishing (adjacent)
•Car parking (adjacent)
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 61
Issues
•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds
•Impact of human disturbance on dunes and flora
•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna
•Impact of roadways on habitat quality
•Impact of unformed pathways on flora, fauna and archaeological sites
•Impact of inappropriate and dated infrastructure on natural values
•Ageing toilet block
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
Partners
195
Review and upgrade fencing along
the front of the dunes
Annual inspection and
repair completed
Operations Department
196
Review amenities infrastructure
and the need to upgrade toilet
block (SP 2.1.1)
Recommendation submitted by
April 2013
Operations and Finance
Departments
9.10 Sub-Area C10: The Colonnades
The Colonnades Sub-area extends from the headland separating Forrest Caves and The Colonnades in the west to
approximately 1.2 kilometres east. Columnar basalt in the cliffs gives the beach its name. These basalt cliffs extend
along the entire area with a sandy beach below and rock platforms in the west. The Colonnades is an exposed high
energy beach used by surfers and fishers. Short-tailed Shearwaters nest along the cliff tops.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values.
There are many opportunities to improve habitat and connectivity with the surrounding area
•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
One bird species
EPBC Protected
Three bird species
FFG Act Listed
Two bird species
VAL Listed
Dune Wood Sorrell Oxalis rubens and eight bird species
EVCs of conservation
Three plant ‘communities’: Swamp Scrub (endangered) Coastal Alkaline Scrub/Bird
concern
Colony Succulent Herbland Mosaic (vulnerable), Coastal Dune Scrub/Coastal Dune
Grassland Mosaic (depleted)
•The area is an important breeding, feeding and/or roosting site for the Short-tailed Shearwater, Hooded Plover
and Pacific Gull (included above)
•Forrest Bluff and Caves (including Colonnades) are a geological site of regional significance (Site 199)71
Social
•Area of cultural sensitivity
•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (middens) present
•Road, car parking, beach access
•Surfing locations (adjacent)
Economic
•Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)
•Commercial fishing (adjacent)
•Car parking (adjacent)
Page 62
Phillip Island Nature Parks
Issues
•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds
•Impact of human disturbance on flora
•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna
•Impact of domestic animals on fauna
•Impact of roadways on habitat quality
•Impact of unformed pathways on flora, fauna and archaeological sites
•Impact of unleashed dogs on Short-tailed Shearwaters beach-washed during the fledging period (mid-April to May)
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
Partners
197
Develop community group, and
liaise with adjacent landowners
and BCSC for continuing weed and
feral animal control
Three habitat days per annum
BCSC, Landcare, volunteers,
community groups
198
Include the consideration of a
beach access staircase at ‘Aussie
Track’ near the Ocean Reach /
Beresford Avenue intersection in
the island-wide Access Review
(SP 1.4)
Completed by December 2013
BCSC, DSE, community
199
Review dog regulations and
possible off-leash dog areas or
times as part of the island-wide
access review
Completed by December 2013
BCSC, DSE, community
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 63
10 | Key Area D: Woodlands
The woodland areas within the Nature Parks have all previously been farmed and most were either part or fully
donated or purchased by the local community with the assistance of the former Phillip Island Shire Council and the
State Government, or a combination of the two. Generally the purpose of these acquisitions was to provide habitat
for koalas.
The largest reserve, Oswin Roberts, contains the largest and most intact woodland vegetation on the Island. The
Key Area supports a wide range of woodland bird species, reptiles and other mammals such as bats, Brush-tailed
Possums and Ring-tailed Possums. Threats include the loss of coarse woody debris, loss of logs (firewood collection)
and the loss of hollow-bearing trees as well as the introduction of pathogens such as Cinnamon Fungus Phytophthora
cinnamomi. With minimal woodland areas left on Phillip Island it is important to continue work to revegetate,
improve and maintain habitats within the woodlands.
A Summerland Peninsula
North
B North-West Beaches
C South Coast Beaches
D Woodlands
E Rhyll Inlet and Silverleaves Beach
F Churchill Island and Surrounds
G Cape Woolamai
Road
Page 64
Phillip Island Nature Parks
Scale 1:4,000
0
50 100m
A Summerland Peninsula
B North-West Beaches
C South Coast Beaches
D Woodlands
E Rhyll Inlet and Silverleaves Beach
F Churchill Island and Surrounds
G Cape Woolamai
Road
North
Scale 1:7,000
0
200
Environment Plan 2012–2017
400m
Page 65
A Summerland Peninsula
B North-West Beaches
C South Coast Beaches
D Woodlands
E Rhyll Inlet and Silverleaves Beach
F Churchill Island and Surrounds
G Cape Woolamai
Road
North
Scale 1:10,000
0
200
400m
No.
Whole Key Area Actions
Goal
Partners
200
Commission a vegetation
management plan for Oswin
Roberts Reserve, Five Ways Reserve
and the KCC
Completed report by June 2013
Consultant, FOK
201
Commission an archaeological
report for woodland areas
including Aboriginal sites, the
chicory kiln and former hall
Completed report by June 2017
AAV, PIDHS, BCSC, community
202
Assist with assessing the feasibility
of releasing endangered and
other ‘missing’ species such as
the Southern Brown Bandicoot,
Long-nosed Potoroo, Swamp Rat
and Southern Emu-wren into the
Nature Parks’ woodlands
Assessment completed by
June 2017
Research Department, contractors,
DSE
203
Commission a vegetation fire risk
assessment for all woodland areas
not already assessed
Completed report by June 2013
DSE, CFA, BCSC
204
Manage woodland areas to protect
the Swift Parrot and Powerful Owl,
following the guidelines of the
relevant FFG Action Statements
Review action options for each
species in Flora and Fauna
Guarantee Action Statements
and develop a Nature Parks
management action plan by
June 2015
DSE, volunteers, BLBC
Page 66
Phillip Island Nature Parks
205
Removal of unused fences, posts,
pickets and tree guards from
woodland areas
Completed by June 2014
Volunteers
206
Monitor VROT species and protect
from weed invasion
Review VROT populations in spring
2013
Contractors, volunteers
207
Develop a management strategy
for preventing overnight parking /
camping
Strategy developed by June 2013
BCSC
10.1 Sub-Area D1: Ventnor Koala Reserve
The reserve was purchased in the 1940s for the preservation of koalas and originally managed by the Phillip Island
Koala Reserve Committee of Management. It forms the catchment for Salt Water Creek, the major creek on Phillip
Island. The reserve was completely cleared prior to the 1970s. Much of the reserve is in poor condition with large
areas planted with Manna Gum Eucalyptus viminalis as koala feed. There is a small area of Grassy Woodland in the
north-east of the reserve which is in good condition and the Damp Swamp Scrub in the south-west corner is the best
example within the Nature Parks72.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values. There
are opportunities to improve habitat and connectivity with the surrounding area especially along Saltwater
Creek
•Many species observed in the Sub-area are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and
state bodies
IUCN Listed
One bird species
EPBC Protected
Twenty eight bird species
FFG Act Listed
One bird species
VAL Listed
Creeping Rush Juncus revolutus, Pale-flowered Cranesbill Geranium sp. 3, Wetland
Blown-grass Lachnagrostis filiformis var. 2 and three bird species
EVCs of conservation
Seven plant ‘communities’: Plains Grassy Woodland (endangered), Swamp Scrub
concern
(endangered), Swampy Woodland (endangered), Tall Marsh (endangered), Spikesedge Wetland (undetermined), Brackish Herbland (rare), Brackish Aquatic Herbland
(rare)
•The area is an important breeding, feeding and roosting site for bush birds and birds of prey
•Ninety nine birds species were recorded in the reserve between 2001 and 2005
•It is the catchment for the Salt Water Creek, the major creek on Phillip Island
Social
•No public access permitted due to environmental sensitivity and human safety
Economic
•N/A
Issues
•Impact of the water impoundment on floristic values
•Potential impact of storm water and road run-off from the new housing development opposite the reserve and road widening on
water quality and habitat values
•Impacts of weeds on flora
•Loss of floristic diversity due to biomass accumulation in woodland areas
•Low floristic diversity of aquatic and understorey species
•Impacts of illegal firewood collection on flora and fauna
•Impact of plantation and non-indigenous trees
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 67
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
Partners
208
Investigate the occurrence of acid
sulphate soils (SP 2.1.1)
Investigation completed by
June 2017
Consultant
209
Prioritise and undertake
management actions outlined
in the Ventnor Koala Reserve
Vegetation Master Plan (2008)
and the Phillip Island Wetland
Survey (2008)
Actions prioritised by June 2013
FOK, DSE, volunteers
10.2 Sub-Area D2: Five Ways Reserve
The Reserve was once privately owned before being purchased and donated by the ratepayers of Phillip Island to
the then Phillip Island Shire Council for habitat conservation. Significant vegetation within Five Ways Reserve is
comprised of old trees or areas of high habitat or conservation value.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values.
There are opportunities to improve habitat and connectivity with the surrounding area
•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
N/A
EPBC Protected
Four bird species
FFG Act Listed
N/A
VAL Listed
Southern Blue Gum Eucalyptus globulus ssp. Globulus. Pale-fruit Ballart (Dwarf
Cherry) Exocarpos strictus
EVCs of conservation
Two plant ‘communities’: Plains Grassy Woodland (endangered), Swamp Scrub
concern
(endangered)
•The area is an important breeding, feeding and roosting site for Little Forest Bats Vespadelus vulturnus
•Rhyll Swamp and the Koala Reserves is a BioSite of state significance (Site 1568)
•54 significant trees have been identified along with five areas of significant vegetation
•Buffer zone for KCC
•Former locality for the Long-nosed Potoroo Potorous tridactylus
Social
•FOK assists with revegetation
•Small car park available on Smiths Beach Road
•Tower in place with Phillip Island’s emergency services communication equipment in operation
Economic
•Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)
Issues
•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds and mammals
•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna particularly pine trees
•Safety of wildlife transiting to other reserves
•Fire risk due to adjoining residents
No.
Sub-Area Actions
210
Completed by June 2017
Have the boundary formally
surveyed and where necessary
repair and/or construct fencing
along the boundaries of the reserve
(SP 2.1.1)
211
Revegetate following weed
removal with indigenous species,
in particular grasses, lilies, sedges
and herbs
Three habitat days per annum held
FOK, volunteers
212
Investigate the practicality of
conducting mosaic burns within
the reserve
Assessment completed by
June 2013
DSE, CFA, BCSC, neighbours
Page 68
Phillip Island Nature Parks
Goal
Partners
Consultant
213
Liaise with neighbours
regarding control of problem
weeds bordering the reserve,
particularly gorse
Completed by June 2013
BCSC, VicRoads, Landcare,
landowners
214
Investigate the installation of
overhanging ropes across the
Phillip Island Tourist Road to allow
for the safe movement of possums
from the KCC to Five Ways Reserve.
Assessment completed by
June 2013
VicRoads, DSE
10.3 Sub-Area D3: Koala Conservation Centre (public area)
The Koala Conservation Centre (KCC) public area consists of two Crown Land parcels: the David Forrest Reserve
donated to the Phillip Island Shire Council in 1956 for the ‘propagation and management of wildlife’ and an additional
area with scattered mature Eucalypts purchased by the Crown in 1990. The KCC makes an important contribution to
research on the koala through partnerships with various universities. A visitor center provides a hub for school and
ranger talks and enhances public education on the conservation of woodlands and of the koala.
Vegetation within the public areas of the KCC is mostly disturbed with a relatively intact section on the western side.
Aged, hollow bearing, eucalypts are present throughout the Sub-area making it the most important area within the
Nature Parks for hollow and cavity nesting wildlife including Galahs and other parrots as well as bats.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values. There
are opportunities to improve habitat and connectivity with the surrounding area
•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
One bird species
EPBC Protected
Eighteen bird species
FFG Act Listed
Two bird species
VAL Listed
Three plant species Southern Blue Gum Eucalyptus globulus ssp. globulus. Pale-fruit
Ballart (Dwarf Cherry) Exocarpos strictus, Slender Bitter Pea Cardamine tenuifolia and
two bird species
EVCs of conservation
Two plant ‘communities’: Plains Grassy Woodland (endangered), Swamp Scrub
concern
(endangered)
Environmental
Contd.
•The Sub-area has a large number of mature trees with tree hollows that are used as nesting sites by bats,
Galahs and other parrots
•The Sub-area is an important feeding area for bats
•Rhyll Swamp and the Koala Reserves is a BioSite of state significance (Site 1568)
Social
•The KCC Visitor Centre provides public facilities including toilets, souvenirs, dining opportunities
and interpretation
•FOK assist with koala counts and revegetation works
•Community Bush Bank
Economic
•Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)
•KCC Visitor Centre
•Community Bush Bank
•Captive population of koalas
Issues
•Impact of human visitation on soils (compaction), fauna and flora
•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna
•Potential impact of fire on flora, fauna and visitors
•Preservation of high value tree hollows in public areas
•Potential impact of human visitors on feeding wallabies
•Potential impact of visitors on close viewing koalas
•Potential impact of close viewing koalas on visitors
•Danger of limbs falling from trees in high winds
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 69
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
Partners
215
Continue to restore biodiversity
within the KCC
Three habitat days per annum
FOK, BMBB and volunteers
216
Preserve tree limbs with hollows by All hollows removed for visitor
fencing off whenever possible
protection replaced by nest boxes
NA
217
Manage koala populations to
maintain genetic diversity
Genetic plan completed by
June 2015
DSE
218
Captive koalas to be managed
according to the Code of Practice
for the Public Display of Animals
(CPPDA) (DPI)
No breaches of the Code of Practice DPI, DSE, Operations Department
or the Act
10.4 Sub-Area D4: Koala Conservation Centre (Plantation, Wetlands
and Surrounds)
This area includes the plantations established in the early 1990s to feed the captive koalas at the KCC. It also includes
two wetland areas as well as the area with the chicory kiln adjacent to the plantation that the Crown purchased in
2003 due to its heritage and environmental values.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values.
There are opportunities to improve habitat and connectivity with the surrounding area
•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
N/A
EPBC Protected
Seven bird species and one wetland plant species, River Swamp Wallaby Grass
Amphibromus fluitans
FFG Act Listed
Seven bird species and two plant species
VAL Listed
River Swamp Wallaby Grass Amphibromus fluitans and Wavy Swamp Wallaby-grass
A. sinuatus and two bird species
EVCs of conservation
Three plant ‘communities’: Swamp Scrub (endangered), Aquatic Herbland
concern
(endangered), Spike-sedge Wetland (rare)
• Rhyll Swamp and the Koala Reserves is a BioSite of state significance (Site 1568)
Social
•Chicory kiln
•Former hall
•No public access to this area currently
Economic
•Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)
•Plantations for koala feed
Issues
•Potential impact of drought and fire on the koala food plantations
•Risk of genetic pollution from Honey Myrtle Melaleuca armillaris
•Impact of roadways on habitat quality
•Impacts of Swamp Wallabies on feed plantations
•Potential impact of viruses on eucalypts and other vegetation
Page 70
Phillip Island Nature Parks
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
Partners
219
Remove Honey Myrtle Melaleuca
armillaris and replant with
indigenous species
Completed by June 2013
FOK, volunteers
220
Remove non-indigenous koala
food trees that are not required
Completed by June 2017
NA
221
Eradicate high and very high rated
wetland weeds from the edge
of the wetlands and revegetate
where needed
Completed by June 2017
FOK, volunteers
222
Revitalise the koala plantations
Completed by June 2017
223
Replant grassy areas of CA 2028
with woodland species including
VAL species to improve habitat for
Swift Parrot and Powerful Owl
25% planting completed by
June 2017
FOK, volunteers, DSE
10.5 Sub-Area D5: Oswin Roberts Reserve
Florence Oswin Roberts donated approximately 50 hectares for koala conservation in the 1950s. The remaining
area was purchased from family members following her death in 1957. This Sub-area contains the largest, most
intact woodland vegetation on the Island. The Sub-area is generally in very good floristic condition with low weed
index ratings. The central section has significantly higher floristic species diversity, including many herbs not
present toward the margins of the area. It forms part of the vegetation and pedestrian/bicycle link between the
KCC and Rhyll.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values. There
are opportunities to improve habitat and connectivity with the surrounding area including adjacent farmland
and the Phillip Island cemetery.
•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
N/A
EPBC Protected
Nineteen bird species
FFG Act Listed
Two bird species
VAL Listed
Southern Blue Gum Eucalyptus globulus ssp. Globulus, Pale-fruit Ballart (Dwarf
Cherry) Exocarpos strictus, Currant Wood Monotoca glauca and three bird species
EVCs of conservation
Three plant ‘communities’: Plains Grassy Woodland (endangered) and Swamp Scrub
concern
(endangered)
•The Sub-area has a number of mature trees with tree hollows that are used as nesting sites by bats, Galahs and
parrots
•The Sub-area is an important feeding area for bats and koalas
•Rhyll Swamp and the Koala Reserves is a BioSite of state significance (Site 1568)
Social
•Pedestrian and bicycle pathways
•Area of cultural sensitivity (near Rhyll Swamp)
•Active friends group
Economic
•Roads, bicycle and walking paths (in and adjacent)
•Car parking
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 71
Issues
•Impact of human visitation on soils (compaction), fauna and flora
•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna
•Potential impact of fire on flora, fauna and visitors
•Preservation of high value hollows in public areas
•Risk of introduced of pathogens such as Phytophthora cinnamomi from cyclists and walkers
•Illegal dumping of rubbish and garden waste in car parks
•Illegal overnight camping / parking
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
Partners
224
Monitor pedestrian and cyclists’
use of shared pathways including:
Documentation of any complaints to
identify user patterns and issues
Inform the island-wide paths
and tracks assessment by
December 2014
BCSC, user groups
10.6 Sub-Area D6: Conservation Hill
Formerly known as Sandgate Farm, Conservation Hill Reserve came into public ownership through a combination
of donations of land and money supplemented by a State Government contribution.
Conservation Hill includes land running along the southern rim of Rhyll Inlet. It provides opportunities for walking
and viewing the mangrove wetland at close range from a viewing platform.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing
values. There are opportunities to improve habitat and connectivity with the surrounding area including
adjacent farmland
•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
N/A
EPBC Protected
Fourteen bird species
FFG Act Listed
Two bird species
VAL Listed
Marsh Saltbush Atriplex paludosa subsp. paludosa and Creeping Rush Juncus
revolutus and nine bird species
EVCs of conservation
Six plant ‘communities’: Damp Sands Herb-rich Woodland (vulnerable), Grassy
concern
Woodland (endangered), Coastal Tussock Grassland (vulnerable), Grassy
Woodland/Coastal Tussock Grassland Mosaic (vulnerable), Damp Melaleuca Scrub
(undetermined), Swamp Scrub (endangered), Estuarine Scrub (endangered)
•Rhyll Inlet is a geological site of state significance73
•Conservation Hill is a BioSite of regional significance (Site 4740)
•Former locality for the Swamp Rat Rattus lutreolus and Southern Emu-wren Stipiturus malachurus
Social
•Area of cultural heritage sensitivity
•Car parking, toilet facilities and pedestrian/bicycle paths are provided
Economic
•Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)
•Nature Parks residence and old sheds
Page 72
Phillip Island Nature Parks
Issues
•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds
•Impact of human disturbance to cultural sites
•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna
•Impact of roadways on habitat quality
•Impact of stormwater runoff on upper car park
•Illegal dumping of rubbish and garden waste in car parks
•Illegal overnight camping / parking
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
225
Prioritise and undertake the actions Prioritisation of actions completed
by June 2013
outlined in the ‘Conservation Hill
and Rhyll Cricket Ground Native
Vegetation Management Plan 2011’
FOK, Volunteers
226
Consider closing the upper car park
to reduce erosion and re-vegetate
BCSC, community
Considered as part of island wide
Access Policy by June 2013
Partners
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 73
11 | Key Area E: Rhyll Inlet And Silverleaves Beach
A Summerland Peninsula
B North-West Beaches
C South Coast Beaches
D Woodlands
E Rhyll Inlet and Silverleaves Beach
F Churchill Island and Surrounds
G Cape Woolamai
Road
North
Scale 1:10,000
0
200
400m
The wetlands, beaches and mudflats of this Key Area support internationally significant populations of wetland
birds including migratory shorebirds. Much of the area is included in the Western Port Ramsar site and the area
and its fauna are protected under a number of international treaties and federal and state legislation including:
the Japan Australia Migratory Bird Agreement (JAMBA), the China Australia Migratory Bird Agreement (CAMBA),
the Republic of Korea Australia Migratory Bird Agreement (ROKAMBA) and the EPBC Act 1999, and require active
management protection.
Observation Point is the eighth largest roost for shorebirds in Western Port and the most important for medium to
large shorebirds74. They roost on the sandy spit, a rocky islet locally named ‘Ghetto Rocks’, and on rock platforms
at the base of Rhyll cliffs. Most of the shorebirds feed from mudflats between Rhyll and Churchill Island at low tide
(Churchill Tidal Flats). They feed on the seagrass itself or associated marine invertebrates75.
No.
Whole Key Area Actions
Goal
Partners
227
Implement the actions of
the Rhyll SMA Management
Statement for those areas within
the Nature Parks (Rhyll Special
Management Area Management
Statement, DSE. 2006) (SP 2.1.1)
including investigation of public
access options
Completed by June 2017
BirdLife Australia, community,
WPB, DSE
228
Commission a vegetation
management plan, archaeological
survey and wildfire management
assessment for this key area
Completed by June 2017
Consultant
Page 74
Phillip Island Nature Parks
229
Continue grants partnership with
PPWPCMA and other agencies
One joint agency level grant
application every three years
PPWPCMA, PV, local councils
around Western Port
230
Work with PV to enforce boating
speed restrictions
Boats obey speed limits
PV
231
Help develop a migratory birds
strategy for Rhyll Inlet, the transfer
station site and wetlands (SP 2.1.1)
Strategy completed by 2017
Research Department, DSE,
BirdLife Bass Coast
11.1 Sub-Area E1: Rhyll and Rowell Swamps
Rhyll Wetland and Rowell Swamps are freshwater wetlands. Rhyll Swamp is the largest wetland on Phillip Island,
and is an important breeding site for waterfowl, wading birds and cormorants.
In the 1960s, water levels in Rhyll wetland were modified to enhance waterfowl habitat. Prolonged waterlogging has
been linked to a dieback of Swamp Paperbark in the wetland, and a siphon system has been installed to enable the
water level to be lowered. Access to both reserves is restricted to enhance the habitat values of both sites. Both sites
are zoological sites of significance76.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing
values. There are opportunities to improve habitat and connectivity with the surrounding area including
adjacent farmland
•Species observed in the Sub-area listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
N/A
EPBC Protected
Twelve bird species
FFG Act Listed
Three bird species
VAL Listed
Currant-wood Monotoca glauca, One-flower Early Nancy Wurmbea uniflora and
Wetland Blown-grass Lachnagrostis filiformis and eight bird species
EVCs of conservation
Nine plant ‘communities’: Wetland formation (endangered), Swamp Scrub
concern
(endangered), Plains Grassy Woodland (endangered), Reed Swamp (endangered),
Brackish Grassland (endangered), Estuarine Flats Grassland (endangered), Swamp
Scrub/Wet Heathland Mosaic (endangered), Damp Sands Herb-rich Woodland
(vulnerable) and Sedge Wetland (vulnerable)
•The area is an important breeding, feeding or roosting site for wetland birds including the Australian White Ibis,
Straw-necked Ibis, Royal Spoonbill, Pied Cormorant, Musk Duck and Chestnut Teal
•Rhyll Swamp and Koala Reserves are a BioSite of state significance (Site 1568)77
•Rhyll Swamp is a geological site of regional significance (Site 179)78
Social
•Area of cultural sensitivity
•Walking tracks adjacent to Sub-area
•Roads adjacent to Sub-area
Economic
•N/A
ISSUES
•Impacts of human disturbance on nesting, feeding and roosting birds
•Impact of weeds, feral and domestic animals on flora and fauna
•Security of water supply for Rhyll and Rowell Swamp
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
Partners
232
Undertake a hydrological study
of Rhyll and Rowell Swamps and
develop a formal management
plan for the water regime (SP 2.1.1)
Plan completed by June 2017
Consultant
233
Manage as a conservation zone,
with access by permission or permit
for management and research
purposes only
Enforce the Nature Parks
regulations and determinations
to minimise disturbance to flora
and fauna
NA
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 75
234
Prioritise and undertake the
Prioritisation of actions completed
management recommendations for by June 2013
Rhyll and Rowell Swamp in ‘Phillip
Island Wetland Survey’79
Volunteers
235
Monitor VROT plant species and
protect from weed invasion
Consultant
Re-sample monitoring quadrats in
spring 2014
11.2 Sub-Area E2: Former Rhyll Landfill and Transfer Station
In 1997 the Department of Sustainability and Environment purchased the former Rhyll Landfill site from the Bass
Coast Shire Council in order to strengthen and support the protection of the Rhyll Inlet saltmarsh. A lease agreement
allows Bass Coast Shire Council to continue to use the site as a transfer station – with all waste transferred to
Grantville - until the end of June 2013.
Major Values
Environmental
•Species observed in the Sub-area listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
N/A
EPBC Protected
Three bird species
FFG Act Listed
N/A
VAL Listed
One bird species
EVCs of conservation
N/A
concern
•The area is a breeding, feeding and /or roosting site for the Cape Barren Goose and Little Raven
(included above)
•Included in BioSite 1564 - secondary foraging areas of waders in Western Port Bay
Social
•Leased by BCSC to provide a refuse transfer station for Phillip Island residents until 30 June 2013
Economic
•Leased by BCSC to provide a refuse transfer station until 30 June 2013
Issues
•Potential impacts of leachate from the former landfill site on surrounding ecological values
•Impact of weeds spreading from the former land fill site into surrounding native vegetation
•Impact of litter being blown from the site on the surrounding saltmarsh and fauna
•Potential increase in litter being left at other Nature Parks locations when transfer station is closed in June 2013.
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
Partners
236
Oversee the revegetation of the
landfill site by BCSC, ensuring the
use of locally collected indigenous
seed and pathogen free capping
and soil
Completed by June 2017
BCSC, DSE
237
Help ensure the implementation of
the approved re-vegetation plan
is achieved by BCSC
Help ensure the revegetation
milestones are completed on time
DSE, BCSC, EPA
238
Consider realigning the walk and
cycling path from Conservation
Hill to the Oswin Roberts Reserve,
providing a buffer to breeding
Royal Spoonbills in Rhyll Wetland
and an improved road crossing
Reviewed by June 2017
Community, BCSC
239
Ensure that the approved Post
Closure Plan is implemented
by BCSC
Monitor implementation of the
plan starting June 2013
BCSC, DSE, EPA
Page 76
Phillip Island Nature Parks
11.3 Sub-Area E3: Rhyll Inlet
The beaches and mudflats of Rhyll Inlet support internationally significant populations of shorebirds. The Inlet is
directly affected by the quality of its catchment. Over recent years there have been many developments and changes
associated with this catchment. Outfall drains from east Cowes, including the industrial estate, drains into the inlet.
Poor agricultural practice and location of the Rhyll Landfill Site has damaged the fragile saltmarsh and mangrove
areas. Freshwater input and maintenance of the water table are essential to preserve the character of the saltmarsh
and mangrove vegetation80. Rhyll Inlet is also a site of geomorphological, zoological and botanical significance.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of predominantly high Natural Values where it is essential to
protect existing values
•Species observed in the Sub-area listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
Three bird species
EPBC Protected
Thirty one bird species
FFG Act Listed
Five bird species and two plant species
VAL Listed
Seventeen bird species and Creeping Rush Juncus revolutus, Marsh Saltbush Atriplex
paludosa ssp. paludosa, Yellow Sea-lavender Limonium australe and Grey Mangrove
Avicennia marina ssp. australasica
EVCs of conservation
One plant ‘community’: Swamp Scrub (endangered), Plains Grassy Woodland
concern
(endangered), Mangrove Shrubland/Estuarine Flats Grassland Mosaic (endangered),
Reed Swamp (endangered)
•Two species are listed on the Advisory List of Rare or Threatened Plants (state)
•The area is an important breeding, feeding or roosting site for shorebirds, including the Eastern Curlew (IUCN
Red Data Book species), Great Knot (IUCN Red Data Book species), Hooded Plover, Red-capped Plover, Bar-tailed
Godwit, Masked Lapwing and Pied Oystercatcher, waterbirds and other species such as the Cape Barren Goose
(included above)
•The area of mudflats adjacent to this Sub-area is an important feeding area for the Bar-tailed Godwit (included
above), sandy beaches are important feeding areas for Hooded Plover, Pied Oystercatcher and Red-capped
Plover chicks
•Rhyll Inlet - The Nits (Site 178) and Rhyll Quarry (Site 179) are sites of state geological significance81
•Rhyll Inlet is a BioSite of National / State Significance (Sites 4730 and 1564), as an important roosting and
foraging area for waders in Western Port
•Potential nursery area for fish species
Social
•Area of cultural heritage sensitivity
•Restricted public access, mangrove boardwalk
•Walking paths and amenities adjacent to Sub-area at Conservation Hill
•Active community groups – BirdLife Bass Coast, Victorian Wader Study Group, BirdLife Australia
•Fishing and boating
Economic
•Farmland
•Built up areas (adjacent)
Issues
•Impacts of human disturbance on nesting, feeding and roosting birds
•Impact of weeds and feral and domestic animals on flora and fauna
•Potential leaching from Sub-area E2 affecting habitat values
•Impacts of sea level rise on habitat including saltmarsh, mangroves, mudflats and sand spits
•Impacts of personalised water craft and yachts on roosting birds and mudflats
•Impacts of human disturbance and vegetation clearance on fish nursery areas
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
Partners
240
Liaise with BCSC regarding subdivisions adjacent to the Sub-area
(SP 2.1.1)
Opportunities to work with key
stakeholders to create buffer
zones explored
BCSC
241
Continue to improve the habitat
values of the Ramsar coast
through weed and pest animal
management (SP 2.1.1)
One funding application
undertaken per grant cycle
PPWPCMA, landowners, volunteers
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 77
BCSC, DSE, PV, community
242
Prioritise and undertake the
Actions relevant to the Nature
management actions outlined in
Parks prioritised by June 2014 and
the Rhyll Special Management Area undertaken by June 2017
Management Statement82
243
Investigate the development of
buffer zones to protect coastal
saltmarsh and mangroves adjacent
to Rhyll Inlet (SP 2.1.1, 2.1.3)
Opportunities to work with
key stakeholders to create buffer
zones explored
DSE, BCSC
244
Monitor VROT plant species, and
protect from weed invasion
Re-sample monitoring quadrats in
spring 2014
Consultant
11.4 Sub-Area E4: Silverleaves – Banksia Woodland
The Coast Banksia Woodland along the coast from the end of the Silverleaves housing estate to Observation Point
is in fair condition. The woodlands support populations of Eastern Water Rat Hydromys chrysogaster and Swamp
Wallaby Wallabia bicolor. No detailed flora studies.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of predominantly high Natural Values where it is essential to protect
existing values
•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
One bird species
EPBC Protected
Eleven bird species
FFG Act Listed
One bird species
VAL Listed
One bird species
EVCs of conservation
Three plant ‘community’: Mangrove Shrubland/Estuarine Flats Grassland Mosaic
concern
(endangered) Coastal Banksia Woodland (vulnerable), Swampy Woodland
(depleted)
•Rhyll Inlet - The Nits is a geological site of state significance (Site 178)83
•Observation Point (including the banksia woodland) is a BioSite of national significance (Site 4730)84
Social
•Area of cultural heritage sensitivity
•Pathways, car park and roads
•Community environment groups present
Economic
•Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)
Issues
•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds
•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna
•Impacts of storm surge and sea level rise on habitat and cultural assets
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
Partners
245
Liaise with BCSC regarding subdivisions adjacent to the Sub-area
(SP 2.1.1)
Opportunities to work with key
stakeholders to create buffer
zones explored.
BCSC
246
Continue to improve the habitat
values of the banksia woodland
One funding application
undertaken per grant cycle
PPWPCMA, volunteers
247
Prioritise and undertake the
management actions outlined
in the Rhyll SMA Management
Statement (DSE 2006).
Actions relevant to the Nature
Parks prioritised by June 2014 and
undertaken by June 2017
BCSC, DSE, PV, community
Page 78
Phillip Island Nature Parks
11.5 Sub-Area E5: Silverleaves Beach
The Silverleaves Beach is approximately five kilometres long, running from Erehwon Point in Cowes to Observation
Point. Only the area east of the housing estate is within the Nature Parks, and extends off shore from the high tide
line. At high tide the water is relatively deep close to the beach while at low tide sand flats are exposed. It is one of
the most successful nesting beaches for the Hooded Plover on Phillip Island in recent years.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values
•Species observed in the Sub-area listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
Three bird species
EPBC Protected
One bird species
FFG Act Listed
One bird species
VAL Listed
Two bird species and four plant species
EVCs of conservation
N/A
concern
•The area is an important breeding, feeding or roosting site for Hooded Plover, Pied Oystercatcher and Redcapped Plover and Masked Lapwing
•Observation Point (including part of Silverleaves Beach) is a BioSite of national significance (Site 4730)85
•Rhyll Inlet - The Nits is a geological site of state significance (Site 178)86
Social
•Area of cultural sensitivity
•Beach walking
•Recreational fishing (mostly from boats)
Economic
•N/A
ISSUES
•Impacts of human disturbance on nesting, feeding and roosting birds
•Impact of weeds, feral and domestic animals on flora and fauna
•Impacts of increased storm surge and sea level rise on habitat and cultural assets
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
Partners
248
Prioritise and undertake the
management actions outlined
in the Rhyll SMA Statement
(DSE 2006)
Actions relevant to the Nature
Parks prioritised by June 2014 and
undertaken by June 2017
BCSC, DSE, PV, community
249
Continue to protect nesting
Hooded Plover and other beach
nesting birds
Two successful Hooded Plover
nests per annum
Local community, volunteers
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 79
11.6 Sub-Area E6: Observation Point and Ghetto Rocks
Observation Point is an active sand spit on the northern shore of Rhyll Inlet. The Point is one of the most important
roosting areas for migratory birds in Western Port and is BioSite of national significance due to the number of
Bar-tailed Godwit, Whimbrel and Pied Oystercatcher that use the area.
Observation Point is highly likely to be affected by sea-level rise (probability 99.63 per cent). Most of the Point and
Inlet will be inundated and shoreline retreat will not be possible due to urban development. Key feeding areas in
Rhyll Inlet and the mudflats between Rhyll and Churchill Island may also be lost.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of predominantly high Natural Values where it is essential to protect
existing values
•Species observed in the Sub-area listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
Three bird species
EPBC Protected
Forty four bird species
FFG Act Listed
Nine bird species
VAL Listed
Twenty two bird species and four plant species
EVCs of conservation concern N/A
•The area is an important breeding, feeding or roosting site for shorebirds, including the Eastern Curlew (IUCN
Red Data List species), Great Knot (IUCN Red Data List species), Hooded Plover, Red-capped Plover, Bar-tailed
Godwit, Masked Lapwing and Pied Oystercatcher, waterbirds and other species such as the Cape Barren Goose
(included above)
•Observation Point is a BioSite of national significance (Site 4730)
•Rhyll Inlet - The Nits is a geological site of state significance (Site 178)88
Social
•Area of cultural sensitivity
•Beach walking and jogging
•Fishing and boating
Economic
•N/A
Issues
•Impacts of human disturbance on nesting, feeding and roosting birds
•Impact of weeds, feral and domestic animals on flora and fauna
•Impacts of increased storm surge and sea level rise on habitat and cultural assets
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
Partners
250
Investigate the effectiveness of
different methods to minimise
human disturbance to the network
of shorebird roosts and nesting
areas in Rhyll Inlet
Minimise disturbance at critical
times in the shorebirds’ annual
cycle. Complete investigation
by December 2013 and
implement actions
BCSC, DSE, PV, community
251
Prioritise and undertake the
Actions relevant to the Nature
management actions outlined in
Parks prioritised by June 2014 and
the Rhyll Special Management Area undertaken by June 2017
Management Statement89
252
Continue to protect breeding
Hooded Plover and other beach
nesting birds
Two successful Hooded Plover
nests per annum
Community, volunteers
253
Ensure continued ranger
presence to provide education
and interpretation to visitors
and enforce regulations when
necessary (SP 2.1.1)
Daily patrols by Nature Parks
rangers during critical periods in
the shorebirds annual cycle
PV, BCSC, DSE
254
Continue to monitor Ghetto Rocks Annual inspections of Ghetto Rocks DPI, DSE, Museum of Victoria, PV
for Pacific Oysters and other marine for marine pests
pests (SP 2.1.1)
Page 80
Phillip Island Nature Parks
BCSC, DSE, PV, community
12 | Key Area F: Churchill Island and Surrounds
A Summerland Peninsula
B North-West Beaches
C South Coast Beaches
D Woodlands
E Rhyll Inlet and Silverleaves Beach
F Churchill Island and Surrounds
G Cape Woolamai
Road
North
Scale 1:9,000
0
200
Environment Plan 2012–2017
400m
Page 81
A Summerland Peninsula
B North-West Beaches
C South Coast Beaches
D Woodlands
E Rhyll Inlet and Silverleaves Beach
F Churchill Island and Surrounds
G Cape Woolamai
Road
North
Page 82
Phillip Island Nature Parks
Scale 1:12,000
0
200
400m
Connected by bridge to Phillip Island, Churchill Island is a unique area of the Nature Parks with significant cultural
values, including a historic homestead, cottage and fruit trees (see European Heritage). While Churchill Island has
a history of being cleared and farmed since the 1850s, it continues to have important natural values, including
Moonah trees, mangroves, saltmarsh and birdlife. Its historic farm gardens are maintained as part of the Island’s
cultural heritage.
There is potential for a museum–standard exhibition space on Churchill Island, including the curation of the historic
collections. A pre-feasibility analysis of this proposal will be undertaken during the life of this plan. It is expected that
the pre-feasibility analysis will consider expanded customer service facilities, protection of Indigenous and European
heritage and enhancement of the Western Port Biosphere.
Churchill Island and the Phillip Island coastline (Sub-areas F1, F3) lie within the internationally recognised Western
Port Ramsar Site. The eastern end of Churchill Island and the north-eastern coast of Phillip Island (Sub-areas F1,
part F3) also adjoin the Churchill Island Marine National Park, one of only thirteen marine national parks in Victoria.
An area known as ‘Fishers Wetland’ (Sub-area F4) near the entrance to Churchill Island is being restored to a natural
state, with significant replanting of indigenous species and weed removal.
Newhaven Wetland (Sub-area F5) is a freshwater wetland south of the township of Newhaven which supports a range
of wildlife but is subject to significant weed infestation.
Vegetation surveys and some fauna surveys are available for Fishers Wetland.
No.
Whole Key Area Actions
Goal
Partners
255
Develop a Key Area Plan
Complete surveys by end of
June 2016 and the plan by 2017
BirdLife Australia, community,
WPB, DSE
256
Actively engage volunteers in
management of the area including
weed control
Three joint habitat days per year
Newhaven Coastcare Group, FOCIS,
school groups, volunteers
257
Ensure informal tracks are included
in island-wide access review
(SP 2.1.1)
Review completed by
December 2013
BCSC, community, landowners
12 Sub-Area F1: Churchill Island Woodlands and Coast
Churchill Island is mostly farmland, with the exception of small areas of Moonah Woodland in a semi intact state
around the coast. Saltmarsh and mangroves fringe the southern tip of the Island.
A revegetation program has been undertaken on the northern end of the Island and is now maturing. The Island
remains rabbit and fox free and progressive removal of non-indigenous species and planting of indigenous plants,
surrounding the historic areas using original seed stock, is ongoing.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values
•Species observed in the Sub-area listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
N/A
EPBC Protected
Nine bird species
FFG Act Listed
Three bird species
VAL Listed
Two bird species and Creeping Rush Juncus revolutus, Marsh Saltbush Atriplex
paludosa ssp. paludosa, Yellow Sea-lavender Limonium australe, Salt Lawrenica
Lawrencia spicata and Grey Mangrove Avicennia marina ssp. australasica
EVCs of conservation
One plant ‘community’ (EVC’s) is listed as of conservation concern: Coast Moonah
concern
Woodland (endangered)
•The area is an important breeding, feeding or roosting site for shorebirds, including the Masked Lapwing and
Pied Oystercatcher, waterbirds and other species such as the Cape Barren Goose
•The area is an important feeding area for the Cape Barren Goose
•Churchill Island is geological site of regional significance (Site 173)90
•Churchill Island is a BioSite of national significance (Site 4739)91
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 83
Social
•Pathways provide public access
•Significant views of Western Port from pathways
•Churchill Island is included on the Victorian Heritage Register and Register of the National Estate
•Area of cultural heritage sensitivity
Economic
•Churchill Island Café
•Churchill Island Heritage Farm
•Pathways provide public access
Issues
•Impacts of human disturbance on nesting, feeding and roosting birds
•Impact of weeds and feral and domestic animals on flora and fauna
•Lack of recruitment in Moonah woodland
•Retention of Churchill Island as rabbit and fox free
•Carrying capacity (number of visitors)
•Risk to bicyclists travelling from the end of the bridge to the homestead from car and bus traffic
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
Partners
257
Revegetate southern tip of
Churchill Island to protect
saltmarsh and mangrove
communities
5,000 plants grown and planted by
June 2017
FOCIS, Newhaven Coastcare
Group, volunteers
258
Enhance Moonah woodland
20 Moonah seedlings planted
each year
FOCIS, Newhaven Coastcare
Group, volunteers
259
Monitor VROT plant species and
protect from weed invasion
Re-map populations in spring 2013
Consultant
260
Investigate the feasibility of a
boardwalk from the end of the
bridge to the cattle grid
Separation of bicyclists and
pedestrian traffic from cars
Consultants, Operations
Department
12.2 Sub-Area F2: Churchill Island Historic Farm
The historic working farm provides a Visitor Centre with information on the history of the Island, an historic
homestead and cottage which can be viewed by visitors, gift shop, amenities and café.
Major Values
Environmental
•Species observed in the Sub-area listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
N/A
EPBC Protected
Nine bird species
FFG Act Listed
Three bird species
VAL Listed
Two bird species
EVCs of conservation
N/A
concern
•The area is an important breeding, feeding or roosting site for the Masked Lapwing and the Cape Barren Goose
(included above)
•Churchill Island is geological site of regional significance (Site 173)93
Social
•Pathways provide public access
•Significant views of Western Port from pathways
•Churchill Island is included on the Register of the National Estate and Victorian Heritage Register94
•Area of cultural heritage sensitivity
Economic
•Churchill Island Café
•Churchill Island heritage farm including farm animals, historic machinery, historic buildings and fruit trees
•Pathways provide public access
•Community events
•Captive population of Red-necked Wallabies
Page 84
Phillip Island Nature Parks
Issues
•Impacts of human and domestic animal disturbance on nesting, feeding and roosting birds
•Impact of weeds and feral and domestic animals on flora and fauna outside the Sub-area
•Potential impact of herbicides and pesticides used for farm purposes on native flora and fauna
No.
Sub area actions
Goal
Partners
261
Limit the use of herbicides,
fertilisers and pesticides so as not
to damage surrounding natural
areas such as Moonah woodland
or affect nesting birds feeding on
insects and seeds (SP 2.1.1)
Review the use of herbicides,
pesticides and fertilisers annually
Operations Department
262
Protect tree hollows for nesting
Galahs and other parrots
Assess tree hollows before works
commence
Operations Department
263
Maintain dams for use by waterfowl Water quality of dams is suitable for Operations Department
wildlife use
264
Protect nesting Masked Lapwings,
Cape Barren Geese and other
native birds from farm activities
and visitors
Maintenance of native bird
populations
Operations and Marketing
Departments
265
Farm and captive animals including
Clydesdale horses, sheep-dogs,
Highland cattle, sheep, ducks,
chickens and peacocks and
Red-necked Wallabies will be
managed according to the Code
of Practice for the Public Display of
Animals (CPPDA) and the Livestock
Management Act 2010
No breaches of the Code of Practise
or the Act
Operations Department
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 85
12.3 Sub-Area F3: Rhyll to Churchill Road Saltmarsh and Swan Bay
The Sub-area and adjacent mudflats from Rhyll to Churchill Road are within the Western Port Ramsar site and support
internationally significant populations of shorebirds. Adjacent mudflats form part of the Churchill Island Marine
National Park and Rhyll Special Management Area. Small remnant patches of Moonah Woodland exist along the
coast. The largest of these extends west from the end of Churchill Island Road for approximately one kilometre, the
most westerly 400 metre section being in excellent condition. The area under the Nature Parks’ management is a
narrow linear coastal strip which increases the impacts from areas outside the Nature Parks and makes effective long
term management difficult. Some buffering is provided by saltmarsh areas on private property and the Churchill
Island Marine National Park along some of the coastline.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values. There
are opportunities to improve habitat and connectivity with the surrounding area including Scenic Estate and
adjacent farmland, but development in the area has impacted on Natural Values in some patches. The data set
for this area is poor
•Species observed in the Sub-area listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
One bird species
EPBC Protected
Eight bird species
FFG Act Listed
One bird species and one plant species
VAL Listed
Six bird species and Creeping Rush Juncus revolutus, Marsh Saltbush Atriplex paludosa
ssp. paludosa, Yellow Sea-lavender Limonium australe, Salt Lawrenica Lawrencia spicata
and Grey Mangrove Avicennia marina ssp. australasica
EVCs of conservation
One plant ‘community’ (EVC) is listed as of conservation concern: Coast Moonah
concern
Woodland (endangered)
•The area is an important breeding, feeding or roosting site for shorebirds, including the Bar-tailed Godwit,
Masked Lapwing and Pied Oystercatcher, waterbirds and other species such as the Cape Barren Goose
(included above) and Black Swan
•The area of mudflats adjacent to this Sub-area is an important feeding area for the Bar-tailed Godwit
(included above)
•Swan Corner (regional, 174), Chambers Pt. to Long Pt. (state, 175) and Koolyns - Silurian Outcrop (state, 176)
are geological sites of significance
•The Sub-area abuts the Churchill Island Marine National Park
Social
•No public access to saltmarsh and mangrove areas
•Area of cultural heritage sensitivity
Economic
•Farmland
Issues
•Impacts of human disturbance on nesting, feeding and roosting birds
•Impact of weeds and feral and domestic livestock on flora and fauna
•Encroachment affecting habitat values
•Impacts of sea level rise on habitat
•Impact of informal paths on habitat and listed flora
Page 86
Phillip Island Nature Parks
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
Partners
266
Continue to liaise with BCSC
regarding sub-divisions adjacent
to the Sub-area (SP 2.1.1)
Opportunities to work with
key stakeholders to create buffer
zones explored
BCSC, Landowners
267
Continue to improve the
habitat values of the Ramsar
coast including mangroves and
saltmarsh vegetation
One joint funding application
per grant cycle
PPWPCMA, volunteers,
Landowners, Landcare
268
Monitor VROT plant species and
protect from weed invasion
Re-sample monitoring quadrats
in spring 2013
Consultant
269
Investigate the feasibility of a short
boardwalk to protect rare plant
species on the pathway between
Fishers Wetland and Churchill Road
Population of Yellow Sea
Lavender protected
Operations Department,
Consultants
12.4 Sub-Area F4: Fisher’s Wetland to Boys Home Road
Fisher’s Wetland is also known as ‘Wadgil’garook’ and is adjacent to the Western Port Ramsar site. The area was
reclaimed in 1998 as a 10 hectare wetland, a system of levee banks and weirs with removable sections installed
to control surface water levels. The Dry Swamp Scrub at Fisher’s Wetland contains very old and tall specimens of
woodland vegetation, and rare vegetation types are present.
Water for the wetland comes from stormwater drainage from the Cape Woolamai housing estate and passes
through private property before reaching the wetland. A second drain located in the south west joins this drain.
The construction of formal drainage and roads in the housing estate has greatly increased the flow of water due
to increased hard surfaces.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of predominantly high Natural Values where it is essential to protect
existing values. There are opportunities to improve habitat and connectivity with the surrounding area
including adjacent farmland
•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
Five bird species
EPBC Protected
Twenty three bird species One plant species Amphibromus fluitans (River Swamp
Wallaby-grass)
FFG Act Listed
Three bird species and Creeping Rush Juncus revolutus, Marsh Saltbush Atriplex
paludosa ssp. paludosa, Yellow Sea-lavender Limonium australe, Salt Lawrenica
Lawrencia spicata and Grey Mangrove Avicennia marina ssp. australasica
VAL Listed
Six bird species and five plant species
EVCs of conservation
Five plant ‘communities’: Coastal Moonah Woodland (threatened), Saline Aquatic
concern
Meadow (rare), Estuarine Swamp Scrub (endangered), Estuarine Flats Grassland
(endangered), Tall Marsh (depleted) and Brackish Aquatic Herbland (vulnerable)
•The area is an important breeding, feeding and / or roosting site for the Cape Barren Goose, Black Swan, Purple
Swamp Hen, Australian Pelican, Masked Lapwing, White-faced Heron and Chestnut Teal
Social
•Area of cultural heritage sensitivity
•Pathways, car parks and roads
•Bird hides
Economic
•Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)
•Bird hide
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 87
Issues
•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds
•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna
•Impact of roadways on habitat quality
•Impact of storm water run-off from the Cape Woolamai housing estate on water quality and quantity
•Impact of the loss of native vegetation on adjacent land on water quality and connectivity
•Impact of agricultural run-off from surrounding land
•Impacts of sea level rise on habitat and cultural values
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
Partners
270
Undertake a hydrological
assessment of water needs of
Fisher’s Wetland (SP 2.1.1)
Hydrological study completed
by June 2017
Consultant
271
Investigate the feasibility of
constructing a stormwater
treatment wetland to intercept
nutrients entering Fisher’s Wetland
from the Cape Woolamai estate
(SP 2.1.1)
Investigation completed by
June 2017
Melbourne Water,
adjoining landowners
272
Request the installation of a
gross pollutant trap on the Cape
Woolamai estate drain (SP 2.1.1)
Request for gross pollutant trap
to be installed undertaken by
June 2017
BCSC, Melbourne Water
273
Monitor the quality and quantity
of water entering Fisher’s
Wetland from stormwater
and drainage from roads and
residential properties
Quality measurements made every
three months
Melbourne Water, Southern
Rural Water
274
Monitor VROT and EPBC listed
plant species and protect from
weed invasion
Re-sample populations and
monitoring quadrats in spring 2013
Consultant
12.5 Sub-Area F5: Newhaven Wetland
Newhaven Wetland is a freshwater wetland south of the township of Newhaven which supports a range of wildlife
but is subject to significant weed infestation. The wetland consists of two natural shallow basins in a remnant stand
of Swamp Scrub behind the Phillip Island Tourist Information Centre.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values.
There are opportunities to improve habitat and connectivity with the surrounding area
•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
N/A
EPBC Protected
Eight bird species
FFG Act Listed
One bird species
VAL Listed
Five bird species and five plant species
EVCs of conservation
Three plant ‘communities’: Tall Marsh (endangered), Estuarine Swamp Scrub
concern
(endangered), Brackish Aquatic Herbfield (vulnerable)
•Homestead Point is a geological site of state significance (Site 172)96
Social
•Walking paths (adjacent)
Economic
•N/A
Page 88
Phillip Island Nature Parks
Issues
•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds and flora
•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna
•Impact of roadways on habitat quality
•Effects of lack of water inputs on water quality and quantity
•High level of nutrients such as phosphates
•Low floristic species diversity
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
Partners
275
Monitor the water quality of
Newhaven Wetland annually
Annual monitoring undertaken
Melbourne Water
276
Undertake a hydrological
assessment of water needs of
Newhaven Wetland in conjunction
with Fisher’s Wetland (SP 2.1.1)
Completed by June 2017
Consultant
277
Research the reserve’s history
to determine if it is naturally
floristically simple or requires
diversification plantings
Research completed by June 2017
Consultant
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 89
13 | Key Area G: Cape Woolamai
A Summerland Peninsula
B North-West Beaches
C South Coast Beaches
D Woodlands
E Rhyll Inlet and Silverleaves Beach
F Churchill Island and Surrounds
G Cape Woolamai
Road
North
Page 90
Scale 1:8,000
Phillip Island Nature Parks
0
200
400m
A Summerland Peninsula
B North-West Beaches
C South Coast Beaches
D Woodlands
E Rhyll Inlet and Silverleaves Beach
F Churchill Island and Surrounds
G Cape Woolamai
Road
North
Scale 1:8,000
0
200
400m
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 91
At 112 metres above sea level, Cape Woolamai is the highest point on Phillip Island. Spectacular cliffs dominate
the Bass Coast side of the promontory and sandy beaches and sand dunes provide a wide range of habitats. Cape
Woolamai is the largest and most significant breeding area for Short-tailed Shearwaters on Phillip Island and is a site
of national geomorphological significance97.
In 1870 Cape Woolamai was leased for grazing and the lessee was required to ‘develop’ it by clearing and burning.
Domestic livestock were grazed in the area from 1870s through to the 1960s, resulting in dramatic changes to the
vegetation. The introduction of rabbits in the late 1850s and foxes in 190898, as well as the trampling by shearwater
egg collectors, also contributed to changes in the area. In the 1940s a large project was initiated to stabilise the dunes
using marram grass and other plant species.
No.
Whole Key Area Actions
Goal
Partners
278
Develop a comprehensive Key Area
Plan for Cape Woolamai (SP 2.1.1)
Plan completed by June 2017
BCSC, AAV, community
279
As a precursor to the Key Area plan, Completed prior to Key Area Plan
commission a report on significant
Indigenous sites on Cape Woolamai
Operations and Finance
Departments, DSE, AAV
280
Prioritise and undertake the actions Annual works plan developed by
in the Cape Woolamai Vegetation
June 2013
Management Plan99, particularly
weed management
Volunteers, BCSC
281
Help monitor Short-tailed
Shearwater populations
Research
Completed by June 2017
13.1 Sub-Area G1: Princeton Avenue Block
The area at the end of Princeton Avenue is covered by Banksia Woodland, the under storey dominated by weeds. As
you move nearer the coast, Banksia is replaced by Coastal Tea-tree with native understory (Sea-berry Saltbush, Coast
Beard-heath, Dianella, Coast Daisy-Bush etc.). As woodland turns into dune, Coast Beard-heath, Coast Daisy-Bush,
Coast Everlasting and Knobby Club-sedge dominate. There are also extensive areas of introduced marram grass. In
the valleys between the dunes Acacia longifolia sophorae dominates. Little is known of the fauna using this area.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values.
There are opportunities to improve habitat and connectivity with the surrounding area including BCSC reserves
•Species observed in the Sub-area listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
N/A
EPBC Protected
Twelve bird species
FFG Act Listed
Twelve bird species
VAL Listed
Four bird species and five plant species
EVCs of conservation
Three plant ‘communities’: Swamp Scrub (endangered), Coastal Dune Scrub/Coastal
concern
Dune Grassland Mosaic (depleted) and Bird Colony Succulent Herbland (rare).
•Cape Woolamai is a BioSite of state significance (Site 4736)100
Social
•Unformed pathways allow beach access
•Significant views of Bass Strait
•Area of cultural heritage sensitivity
•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (middens) present
Economic
•Built up areas nearby
•Roads and pathways
•Commercial fishing (restrictions apply)
Page 92
Phillip Island Nature Parks
Issues
•Impacts of human disturbance on cultural values, flora and fauna
•Risk of fire
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
Partners
282
Commission a vegetation
management plan including fire
regimes for this Sub-area
Completed by June 2016
BCSC
283
Include priorities for access in
the island-wide access strategy
(SP 1.4, 2.1.1)
Completed by December 2013
BCSC
284
Protect nesting Short-tailed
Shearwaters
Opportunities to work with key
stakeholders identified and
explored. Nature Parks regulations
and determinations enforced
BCSC, DSE
13.2 Sub-Area G2: Cape Woolamai Tombolo
The tombolo consists of sand dunes underlain by older volcanic lavas and tuffs that outcrop on the shore and in cliff
sections101 and is of national geological significance. In recent times the sands are quite unconsolidated although
there are visible horizons of calcareous cemented root concretions derived from former vegetation102.
This Sub-area includes Anzacs and Woolamai Beach. This stretch of beach is the longest (2.4 kilometres) and most
exposed on Phillip Island and is the location for the WSLSC. A National Surfing Reserve application is currently
in progress for this area. It is the most popular surfing beach on the Island and has car parking facilities for
approximately 400 vehicles. The beach is not a safe swimming beach and is only suitable for experienced surf
swimmers - an average of 55 people are rescued annually103.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values
•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
One bird species
EPBC Protected
Twelve bird species
FFG Act Listed
Seven bird species
VAL Listed
Twelve bird species and thirteen plant species (see below)
EVCs of conservation
Nine plant ‘communities’: Coast Banksia Woodland (vulnerable), Berm Grassy
concern
Shrubland (endangered), Coastal Alkaline Scrub (vulnerable), Damp Sands Herb-rich
Woodland (vulnerable), Coast Headland Scrub (depleted), Coastal Tussock Grassland
(vulnerable), Bird Colony Succulent Herbland (rare), Coastal Dune Grassland
(depleted), and Damp Melaleuca Scrub (depleted)
•The area is an important breeding and/or feeding site for Short-tailed Shearwater and Hooded Plover
•The area is an important feeding site for Pacific Gull in autumn
•Woolamai Beach and tie bar is a geological site of national significance (Site 171)104
•Cape Woolamai is a BioSite of state significance (Site 4736)105
Social
•Pathways (unformed)
•Significant views from cliffs
•Recreational fishing (adjacent)
•Area of cultural heritage sensitivity
•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites present
•Former quarry
•Significant surfing events
•Recreational diving
•WSLSC
Economic
•Car parking, roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)
•Commercial fishing (adjacent)
•WSLSC – amenities and kiosk
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 93
Issues
•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds
•Walking on unformed tracks in dunes is impacting on flora and fauna
•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna
•Impact of domestic animals on fauna
•Impact of car parking, roadway and pathways on habitat quality
•Inadequate car parking and overnight camping/sleeping in cars
•Impact of WSLSC building and its use on dune erosion, loss of flora and fauna
•Impact of the use of the WSLSC facilities at night on Short-tailed Shearwaters
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
Partners
285
Include priorities for access in
the island-wide access strategy
(SP 1.4, 2.1.1)
Completed by December 2013
BCSC
286
Commission an archaeological
survey of this Sub-area
Completed by June 2017
AAV, BCSC
287
Revegetate dune areas
Three habitat days held per annum
WSLSC, volunteers
288
Commission an archaeological
survey of this Sub-area
Completed by June 2015
AAV, BCSC
289
Reduce informal tracks to beach
(SP 1.4, 2.1.1)
WSLSC, volunteers, visitors
Enforcement of Nature Parks
regulations and determinations
undertaken. Tracks reviewed under
tracks and pathways review by
December 2013
290
Reduce the number of Shorttailed Shearwaters killed by
cars on the access road to the
WSLSC in the evenings during
the fledging period
Minimise the number of ShortWSLSC, BCSC, visitors
tailed Shearwaters killed by cars on
the access road to the Woolamai
SLSC in the evenings during the
fledging period.
Number of birds killed minimised.
Annual reminder to Woolamai SLSC
of the need to not schedule night
events between the 16th April and
6th May
291
Re-sample monitoring quadrats in
Monitor VROT species: Sea
spring 2015
Nymph Amphibolis antarctica
(poorly known), Shore Spleenwort
Asplenium obtusatum subsp.
northlandicum (vulnerable), Slender
Bitter-cress Cardamine tenuifolia
(poorly known), Coast Ballart
Exocarpos syrticola (rare), Paleflower Cranesbill Geranium sp. 3
(rare), Oval Sea-wrack Halophila
australis (poorly known), Leafy
Peppercress Lepidium foliosum
(vulnerable), Crimson Berry
Leptecophylla (Cyathodes) juniperina
(rare), Peninsula Daisy-bush Olearia
sp. 2 (aff. lanuginosa) (rare), Dune
Wood-sorrel Oxalis rubens (rare),
Dune Poa Poa poiformis var. ramifer
(rare), Coast Saltwort Salsola tragus
subsp. pontica (rare) and protect
from weed invasion and dune
destabilisation
Page 94
Phillip Island Nature Parks
Consultant
292
Develop a strategy for reducing
dune surfing, including public
education (SP 1.4, 2.1.1)
Completed by June 2013
DSE, BCSC
293
Track and reduce advertisement
of the sand dunes as a tourism
destination for sandboarding
Elimination of sandboarding at
Cape Woolamai by June 2017
Accommodation outlets,
BCSC, community
13.3 Sub-Area G3: Cape Woolamai Plateau
Prior land-use has created extensive areas of disturbed vegetation, dominated by introduced grasses and herbs,
on the ‘plateau’ area of the Cape. Former extensive patches of Kikuyu Pennisetum clandestinum and Buffalo Grass
Stenotaphrum secundatum have been substantially reduced through the aerial spraying program, and control of these
aggressive perennials is well advanced. Within the areas utilised by the shearwaters, large areas are now dominated
by pasture grasses, notably Bromus spp. and to a lesser extent Dactylis glomerata, or introduced annual chenopods106.
Ideally the longer-term outcome in these areas is a cover of indigenous perennial species tolerant of the activities
of the shearwaters, and providing increased overall stability of the soils, given much of the current introduced flora
is annual107.
Major Values
Environmental
•NaturePrint identifies this as an area of high Natural Values where it is essential to protect existing values
•Species observed in the Sub-area that are listed as of conservation concern by international, federal and state
bodies include:
IUCN Listed
One bird species
EPBC Protected
Twelve bird species
FFG Act Listed
Seven bird species
VAL Listed
Twelve bird species and thirteen plant species (see below)
EVCs of conservation
Nine plant ‘communities’: As for Sub-Area G2
concern
•The area is an important feeding site for Pacific Gull in autumn
•Cape Woolamai granite tombolo is a geological sites of national significance (Site 170)
•Former Little Penguin breeding site
Social
•Pathways (unformed)
•Significant views from cliffs
•Shipwrecks included on the Heritage Register (adjacent)
•Area of cultural heritage sensitivity
•Aboriginal cultural heritage sites (middens) present
•Surfing
•Recreational diving
Economic
•Roads and walking paths (in and adjacent)
•Commercial fishing (adjacent)
•WSLSC – amenities and kiosk
Issues
•Impact of human disturbance to roosting and nesting birds
•Walking on unformed tracks is impacting on flora, fauna and archaeological sites
•Impact of weeds and feral animals on flora and fauna
•Sand dune surfing is eroding dunes and threatening VROT plant species
No.
Sub-Area Actions
Goal
Partners
294
Access current and future access
needs in the island-wide access
strategy (SP 1.4, 2.1.1)
Completed by December 2013
BCSC
295
Monitor VROT plant species as for
Sub-Area G2
Assess current and future access
needs in the Nature Parks Access
Policy (SP 1.4, 2.1.1)
Consultant
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 95
Appendices and References
Page 96
Phillip Island Nature Parks
15 | References
14.1 Appendix 1: Existing Plans/Reports
Author
Year
Title
Review
Date
Bennetts, K. and Cook, D.
2008
Phillip Island Wetland Survey
2013
Bennetts, K. and Osler, D.
2008
Ventnor Koala Reserve Vegetation Master Plan
2013
Bull, H.
2011
Summerland Peninsula Wildfire Management Assessment
NA
Campbell, S., Lumsden, L.,
2005
Kirkwood, R. and Coulson, R.
Day roost selection by Little Forrest Bats Vespadelus vulturnus within remnant
woodland on Phillip Island, Victoria. Wildlife Research 32: 1-9.
NA
Cleary, M.
2011
Preliminary fauna survey of Smiths Beach Parkland and Drainage Reserve.
NA
Cropper, S.
2003
Rare or Threatened Plants of Phillip Island.
NA
Crowfoot, L, Carr, G and
Roberts, N.
2006
Rare Plant Survey of Phillip Island Nature Parks
NA
Edmunds M., Mustoe, S.,
Stewart, K., Sheedy, E. and
Ong, J.
2009
VNPA Nature Conservation Review: Marine Conservation Priorities and Issues for
Victoria. Report to Victorian National Parks Association. Australian Marine
Ecology Report 405, Melbourne.
NA
Fensham, R.
1993
A remnant of coastal vegetation on Phillip Island, Victoria. Victorian
Naturalist: 110(5) 191-97.
NA
Harkin, E.
2000
The Foraging ecology of the water rat (Hydromys chrysogaster) in coastal
environments on Phillip Island (BSc Hons thesis, Melbourne University)
NA
Kirkwood, R. and
Johnston, M.
2006
Terrestrial mammals of Phillip and French Islands, Western Port. The Victorian
Naturalist 123: 146-156.
NA
Menkhorst, P.
2009
Assessment of the potential habitat for Long-nosed Potoroo and Southern
Brown Bandicoot on Phillip Island
NA
Oates, A., and Frood, D.
2010
Cape Woolamai Native Vegetation Management Plan 2010
2015
Oates, A., and Frood, D.
2011
Conservation Hill and Rhyll Cricket Ground Native Vegetation Management
Plan
2016
Oates, A., and Frood, D.
2011
Summerland Peninsula Native Vegetation Management Plan 2011
2016
Osler, D.
2007
Bass Coast Landcare Wetland Assessments
NA
Robinson, P. and Quinn, D.
2002
The Reptiles and Amphibians of Phillip Island Nature Parks
NA
Ecoscience
2003
Freshwater Fish and Macro-invertebrate Survey, Phillip Island Nature Parks
NA
St George, C., Berelov, I.,
McMillan, R. and Donati, L.
2012
Cultural Heritage Assessment of the Summerland Peninsula, Phillip Island
NA
Sutter, G and Downe, J.
2000
Vegetation Community Survey and Mapping of the Phillip Island Nature Parks NA
Thomas, I.
2011
Pollen Analysis of sediments in and around Swan Lake, Summerland
Peninsula, Phillip Island, Victoria
NA
Walker, G.
2010
Surfies Point to Sunderland Bay Vegetation Survey and Management
Recommendations
2015
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 97
14.2 Appendix 2: Written Submissions
Written submissions were received in response to the Draft Environment Plan 2012-2017 from the following:
Baird, Bob
Holland, Deborah and Tony
Baird, Pat
Hunt, Patsy
Bass Coast Shire Council
Maunders, David (Friends of Churchill Island Society Inc.)
Bennetts, Kate
Nair, Kay and Mohan
BirdLife Bass Coast
Phillip Island Conservation Society
BirdLife Victoria
Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit
Cameron, Ewen
Port Phillip and Westernport Catchment Management Authority
Cameron, Fergus and Chris
Schinkel, Maurice
Cuthbertson, Linda and Stefan
Shaw , Elizabeth
Davie, Anne
Smiths Beachcomber Association Inc.
Fleming, Jan
Taylor, Pauline
Friends of Surf Beach and Sunderland Bay
Venn, Maria
Friends of the Koalas Inc.
Whelan, Michael and Mary
Grayden, Christine
Cr. Wright, Phil
14.3 Appendix 3: Partnerships Summary
Government Agencies and Authorties
Conservation and Community Groups
1
Bass Coast Shire Council
21
Members of the Phillip Island community
2
Department of Sustainability and Environment
22
Holiday rentals
3
Department of Primary Industry
23
Landcare
4
Department of Health and Human Services
24
Barbara Martin Bush Bank
5
Aboriginal Affairs Victoria
25
Coast Care Groups
6
Country Fire Authority
26
Friends of the Koalas
7
Heritage Victoria
27
Friends of Churchill Island
8
VicFire
28
Western Port Biosphere Reserve
9
Parks Victoria
29
BirdLife Bass Coast
10
Civil Aviation Safety Authority
30
Hooded Plover Watch volunteers
11
Melbourne Water
31
BirdLife Australia
12
Westernport Water
32
Victorian Wader Study Group
13
VicRoads
33
Australasian Wader Studies Group
14
Trust for Nature
34
Phillip Island and District Historical Society
15
Port Phillip and Western Port CMA
35
Phillip Island Conservation Society
16
San Remo Foreshore Committee of Management
36
Phillip Island Boardriders Club
17
Southern Rural Water
37
Phillip Island Pony Club
38
Phillip Island Tourism and Business Association
Other
18
SP AusNet
39
Phillip Island Bicycle Users Group
19
Private landowners and managers
40
Woolamai Beach Surf Life Saving Club
20
Farmers
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Phillip Island Nature Parks
14.4 Appendix 4: Regulatory Setting
The work of the Nature Parks sits within a range of wider legislation and obligations, and is informed by a range
of key agreements and plans at an international, national, state and local level.
14.4.1 International Treaties and Obligations
Western Port Ramsar Site
The ‘Convention on Wetlands’, signed in Ramsar, Iran, in 1971, is an intergovernmental treaty providing the framework
for national action and international cooperation for the conservation and wise use of wetlands and their resources.
In 1982, Western Port became one of 1,970 sites around the world listed under this Convention as ‘Wetlands of
International Importance’. A management plan has been prepared by DSE with whom the Nature Parks works to
provide management direction for the various agencies involved with protection of the Ramsar site.
The Ramsar site borders the Nature Parks on the north east coast of the Island and includes Rhyll Inlet and
Observation Point.
STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE WESTERN PORT RAMSAR SITE
PAGE 4
Migratory Bird Agreements
Australia provides critical non-breeding habitat for millions of migratory waterbirds each year. To ensure their
conservation the Australian Government has fostered international cooperation through a range of important
agreements, including the Ramsar Convention and the Convention on Migratory Species, bilateral agreements
with Japan, China and the Republic of Korea, and through the East Asian — Australasian Flyway Partnership. The
corridor through which these birds migrate is known as the East Asian - Australasian Flyway (the Flyway). It extends
from within the Arctic Circle, through East and South-east Asia, to Australia and New Zealand. Stretching across
22 countries, it is one of eight major waterbird flyways recognised around the globe (www.environment.gov.au/
biodiversity/migratory/waterbirds/index.html).
These agreements find expression at the national level, through the EPC Act 1999, state level in documents such
as ‘The Strategic Directions Statement’ for Ramsar wetlands which sets the management objectives and statewide management strategies for Ramsar wetlands in Victoria. The Western Port Ramsar Site Management Plan sets
objectives for the Western Port site. At the local level they are included in the Bass Coast Shire Planning Scheme
through the Municipal Strategic Statement and must be considered during planning applications.
Agreement
Acronym
Relevance To Nature Parks
Japan Australia Migratory
Bird Agreement
JAMBA
Thirty-six species occurring within the Nature Parks are listed under this agreement
Convention on Migratory
Species (Bonn Convention)
The Convention aims to conserve terrestrial, aquatic and avian migratory species
throughout their range. It is an intergovernmental treaty, concluded under
the aegis of the United Nations Environment Programme, concerned with the
conservation of wildlife and habitats on a global scale
Convention on
International Trade in
Endangered Species of
Wild Fauna and Flora
CITES
This treaty controls the way wild native flora and fauna can be exchanged
between countries
China Australia Migratory
Bird Agreement
CAMBA
Thirty one species occurring within the Nature Parks are listed under
this agreement
Republic of Korea
Australia Migratory Bird
Agreement
ROKAMBA
Twenty two species occurring within the Nature Parks are listed under
this agreement
14.4.2 Federal Legislation
Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999
The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) is the Australian Government’s
central piece of environmental legislation. It provides a legal framework to protect and manage nationally and
internationally important flora, fauna, ecological communities and heritage places.
Protection of migratory waterbirds in Australia is a matter of national environmental significance under the Act.
The Act also provides for the development of plans to conserve listed species, of which the Wildlife Conservation
Plan for Migratory Shorebirds was the first to be made under the Act in February 2006 (www.environment.gov.au/
biodiversity/migratory/waterbirds/index.html).
New guidelines for ‘Significant impacts on 36 species of shorebirds’ were prepared in 2009 (Commonwealth of
Australia 2009). Significant impacts include those from habitat loss, habitat degradation, human disturbance and
direct mortality.
Native Title Act 1993
The main objectives of this Act are to;
a. Provide for the recognition and protection of native title
b. Establish ways in which future dealings affecting native title may proceed and to set standards for those dealings
c. Establish a mechanism for determining claims to native title
d. Provides for, or permits, the validation of past acts, and intermediate period acts, invalidated because of the
existence of native title.
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Phillip Island Nature Parks
14.4.3 State Legislation and Management Frameworks
Key documents and state legislation that direct management options for the Nature Parks include:
Management Directions / Plans
•Australia’s Biodiversity Strategy 2010-30 (Commonwealth of Australia 2010)
•Bass Coast Planning Scheme (BCSC 2011)
•Biodiversity Action Planning, Landscape Plan for the Phillip Island Zone in the Gippsland Plain Bioregion,
A Strategy for Conserving Biodiversity in the Phillip Island Zone (DSE 2005)
•Biosecurity Strategy for Victoria 2011 (DPI Victoria)
•Code of Practice for the Welfare of Wildlife During Rehabilitation (DPI 2001)
•Code of Practice for the Public Display of Animals (DPI 2001)
•Readiness and Response Plan for Large Whale Entanglement in Victoria (DPI 2008)
•Rhyll Special Management Area Management Statement (DSE 2006)
•The Victorian Cetacean Contingency Plan (DSE 1999)
•The Victorian Coastal Strategy (Victorian Coastal Council 2008)
•The Victorian Marine Pollution Contingency Plan (VicPlan) (DOT 2011)
•Western Port Marine Pollution Contingency Plan (DOT 2011)
•Western Port Ramsar Site Management Plan (DSE 2003)
•Wildlife Response Plan for Marine Pollution Emergencies (DSE 2007)
Acts
• Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006
• Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Victoria) Act 1994
• Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994
• Climate Change Act 2004
• Coastal Management Act 1995
• Conservation Forests and Lands Act 1987
• Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978
• Domestic Animals Act 1994
• Environment Protection Act 1970
• Firearms Act 1996
• Fisheries Act 1995
• Flora & Fauna Guarantee Act 1988
• Forests Act 1958
• Heritage Act 1995
• Historic Shipwrecks Act 1976
• Land Act 1958
• Livestock and Diseases Act 1994
• Livestock Management Act 2010
• Planning and Environment Act 1987
• Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986
• Traditional Owner Settlement Act 2010
• Wildlife Act 1975
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 101
Regulations (these regulations fall under the above Acts)
•Aboriginal Heritage Regulations 2007
•Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Control of Use) (Ruminant Feed) Regulations 2005
•Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Control of Use) Regulations 2007
•Catchment and Land Protection Regulations 2002
•Conservation, Forests and Lands (Infringement Notice) (Amendment) Regulations 2011
•Crown Land (Reserves) (Tour Operator Licence Fee) Regulations 2011
•Crown Land Reserves (Phillip Island Nature Park) Regulations 2010
•Domestic Animals Regulations 1994
•Flora and Fauna Guarantee Regulations 2001
•Heritage (Historic Shipwrecks) Regulations 2007
•Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Domestic Fowl) Regulations 2006
•Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulations 2008
•Wildlife (Marine Mammals) Regulations 2009
•Wildlife Regulations 2002
14.4.4 Biosphere Reserve
Phillip Island Nature Parks is located within the Western Port Biosphere Reserve.
UNESCO biosphere reserves aim to keep special places—like Western Port—special by fostering conservation
and sustainable development. They encourage the community to develop better ways to meet social and
economic needs, while conserving natural processes and biodiversity. They support this through research,
monitoring, education and information exchange. Biosphere Reserve designation does not alter the legal status
of the land involved.
Biosphere reserves include urban, industrial and agricultural areas as well as conservation reserves, and participation
by landowners is voluntary. For management purposes, they are structured into three zones:
•Core—Conservation areas that are legally protected (e.g. national park).
•Buffer—Areas surrounding the core, where activities compatible with conservation occur.
•Transition—other areas, e.g. private land, farms, industrial and urban areas, where sustainable practices are
developed and promoted by the community.
14.4.5 Special Management Areas – Rhyll and Summerland
Phillip Island Nature Parks has involvement in two marine zones which have been recommended to the
Victorian Government as ‘Special Management Areas’ located at Summerland Peninsula and at the Rhyll Inlet
and nearby waters.
The Summerland Peninsula Special Management Area extends over 400 hectares. It was recommended by the
Environment Conservation Council (now the Victorian Environment Assessment Council VEAC) to complement
the wildlife values of Seal Rock and the Little Penguin colonies at Phillip Island1. A management plan has yet to
be completed.
Rhyll Special Management Area Management Statement has been completed. The northern portion of Rhyll Special
Management Area has been included in the Parks since 2007. The management objectives for the Rhyll SMA are to:
•Develop strategies to protect the values of the area for shorebirds
•Manage recreational activities to encourage visitors’ enjoyment and understanding whilst protecting the
area’s values
•Engage the community and develop effective stewardship of the area’s values
•Undertake research and monitoring to improve the scientific basis for management.
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Phillip Island Nature Parks
14.5 Appendix 5: Triple-Bottom-Line Values Considered
for Coastal and Marine Assets
Values
Coastal
Marine
Reason For Valuation
Environmental
Vegetation Protection Planning
Overlay (BCSC)
✔
Vegetation provides habitat for native fauna and can provide protection
against erosion. ‘Vegetation Protection Overlay’ enables planning
authorities to protect particular trees or other vegetation (including dead
vegetation). It provides tighter controls over vegetation clearance than
Provision 52.17, which deals with ‘Native Vegetation’.
Environmental Significance
Planning Overlay (BCSC)
✔
Areas covered by an ‘Environmental Significance Overlay’ require a permit
for any subdivision, building or works as well as protecting vegetation.
BioSites
✔
BioSites are sites of biodiversity significance. The sites are physical areas of
land or water containing biological values with particular attributes, such
as the presence of rare or threatened flora, fauna or habitat required for
their survival and/or rare or threatened vegetation communities. Sites vary
from international to local significance.
Geological points of significance
(BCSC, DSE)
✔
Geological sites of significance are often aesthetically pleasing and
geomorphologists and geologists often recognise significant geology for
the supporting values provided to biodiversity and the environment in
general.
Adjacent Parks and Reserves with
native vegetation (BCSC, Crown
land managed by BCSC)
✔
Adjacent Parks and Reserves are protected areas that provide habitat for
native flora and fauna species.
Land and Biodiversity White
Paper flagship areas (Western
Port including all of Phillip Island)
✔
Flagship areas were identified as needing focused attention due to their
important environmental, social and economic values, as identified in the
‘Securing our Natural Future - Land and Biodiversity White Paper’ (2009).
These areas are based on aggregations of these values. Ecological values
reflect the provision of ecosystem services, which underpin the identified
economic and social values of these flagship areas.
Biolinks - Land and Biodiversity
White Paper (Western Port
flagship connects to Gippsland
Biolinks)
✔
Broad biolink areas were identified in the ‘Securing our Natural Future
- Land and Biodiversity White Paper’ (2009). The Biolinks are broad
geographic areas identified to target actions that aim to increase
ecological function and connectivity, improving the potential of plants
and animals to disperse, recolonise, evolve and adapt naturally. Victoria’s
Biolink areas were determined based on an analysis of continental climate
shifts, major riparian links and local climate gradients that link flagship
areas via areas of likely adaptive ‘flow’ (White Paper, pp14 and 122).
Ecological Vegetation
Communities 2005
✔
Ecological vegetation communities consist of floristic communities that
tend to show similar ecological responses to environmental factors such
as disturbance (e.g. wildfire). As well as representing plant communities,
EVCs can be used as a guide to the distribution of individual species and
groups of species.
Nature Parks Vegetation
Management Plans
✔
Various vegetation management plans commissioned by the Nature Parks
Ramsar wetlands (Western Port
Ramsar Site)
✔
Ramsar wetlands are Wetlands of International Importance under the
Ramsar Convention. Ramsar wetlands are recognised as a matter of
National Environmental Significance under the EPBC Act 1999.
Wetlands
✔
Wetlands can provide botanical, zoological, limnological or hydrological
value. They can also buffer the effects of floods and filter water draining to
the oceans.
Watercourse network (channels,
rivers and streams)
✔
Watercourses provide habitat for aquatic flora and fauna and drainage to
protect catchments against inundation.
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 103
EPBC Flora records
✔
The EPBC Act 1999 is Commonwealth legislation that provides for the
listing of nationally threatened native species and ecological communities,
native migratory species and marine species. The Victorian Biodiversity
Atlas (VBA) contains records of EPBC listed flora species.
FFG Flora records
✔
The FFG Act 1988 is State legislation (Vic) that provides for the listing
of threatened species and communities and for the management of
potentially threatened communities. The Victorian Biodiversity Atlas
contains records of FFG Act 1988 listed flora species.
Victorian Advisory Listed
Flora species
✔
The Victorian Advisory List is a list of considered threatened, poorly
known, near threatened or extinct species maintained by DSE. There are
no legal consequences or lists however the lists may be used for a range of
planning processes, such as the preparation of National Park Management
Plans, Forest Management Plans, local government planning schemes,
regional catchment strategies and in setting priorities for actions to
conserve biodiversity. Some species listed on the Advisory list may also be
listed on the FFG and EPBC lists. The species lists only include items that
have been nominated, assessed by the Scientific Advisory Committee and
approved for listing by the responsible Minister.
VBA Flora
✔
The Victorian Biodiversity Atlas (VBA) contains sightings and observation
records of all native flora species (including species listed under the EPBC
Act 1999, FFG Act 1998, the Victorian advisory list and other unlisted
native species).
Nature Parks fauna management
plans and reports
✔
Nature Parks commissioned reports on fauna
EPBC Fauna records (VBA)
✔
✔
The EPBC Act 1999 is Commonwealth legislation that provides for the
listing of nationally threatened native species and ecological communities,
native migratory species and marine species. The Victorian Biodiversity
Atlas (VBA) contains records of EPBC listed fauna species.
FFG Fauna records (VBA)
✔
✔
The FFG Act 1988 is State legislation (Vic) that provides for the listing
of threatened species and communities and for the management of
potentially threatened communities. The Victorian Biodiversity Atlas
contains records of FFG Act 1988 listed fauna species sightings and
observations.
Victorian Advisory Listed Fauna
species (VBA)
✔
✔
The Victorian Advisory List is a list of considered threatened, poorly
known, near threatened or extinct species maintained by DSE. There
are no legal consequences or requirements for species listed on the
advisory lists however the lists may be used for a range of planning
processes, such as the preparation of National Park Management Plans,
Forest Management Plans, local government planning schemes, regional
catchment strategies and in setting priorities for actions to conserve
biodiversity. Some species listed on the Advisory list may also be listed on
the FFG and EPBC lists. The species lists only include items that have been
nominated, assessed by the Scientific Advisory Committee and approved
for listing by the responsible Minister. The Victorian Biodiversity Atlas
(VBA) contains sightings and observation records of native fauna species
on the Victorian Advisory list.
VBA Fauna Records (all)
✔
✔
The Victorian Biodiversity Atlas (VBA) contains sightings and observation
records of all native fauna species (including species listed under the
EPBC Act 1999, FFG Act 1998, the Victorian advisory list and other unlisted
native species).
Hooded Plover nesting sites
(includes winter flocking sites,
observed sightings, nesting,
roosting and feeding sites)
✔
✔
Hooded plovers (Thinornis rubricollis) are a listed marine species under the
EPBC Act 1999, are listed as Threatened under the FFG Act 1988 and listed
as Vulnerable under the Advisory List of Threatened Vertebrate Fauna
in Victoria 2003. The vast majority of Hooded Plovers breed along the
coastline and hence are vulnerable to widespread threats such as sea level
rise and predation by introduced predators.
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Phillip Island Nature Parks
Tern nesting and roosting sites
✔
✔
Tern nesting and roosting sites provide habitat for tern species listed as
migratory species under international law (Bonn, CAMBA, JAMBA, and
ROKAMBA). Species also listed under Marine Provisions EPBC Act.
Pacific Gull
✔
✔
EPBC listed species, nesting sites
White-bellied Sea Eagle
✔
✔
White-bellied Sea Eagles are EPBC listed
Little Penguin colonies (Nesting/
Moulting Sites)
✔
✔
Little Penguins (Eudyptula minor) are a listed marine species under the
EPBC Act 1999.
Australian Fur Seal colonies
✔
✔
Australian Fur Seals (Arctocephalus pusillus) are a listed marine species
under the EPBC Act 1999. The species is also protected under the Wildlife
Act 1975 and listed under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988. The
sites provide habitat for mating, pupping and moulting.
Shorebird habitats (International,
national, state, regional
significance). Data also
includes habitats of undefined
significance.
✔
✔
Shorebird habitat provides habitat for species of international, national,
state, regional significance.
Shorebird roosts (minor roosts,
major roosts, nesting, feeding
sites)
✔
✔
Shorebird roosting sites provide habitat for species of international,
national, state, regional significance.
Hydro navigation lines (reefs and
ledges)
✔
✔
Reefs and ledges provide habitat for marine species.
Victorian National Parks
Association Marine Conservation
Priorities
✔
✔
Marine Conservation Priorities in Victoria as described in Edmunds (2010).
Priorities include habitats, communities, species and ecosystem processes
and aspects of high conservation value for regions of Victoria.
Stormwater drains
✔
✔
Disposal of stormwater can affect wetlands, saltmarsh areas and
marine environment.
Wave climate model as a proxy for
exposure data (marine habitat/
diversity data)
✔
✔
Increased storm surge and frequency are likely to affect both
environmental and social assets.
Aboriginal cultural heritage sites
✔
✔
Aboriginal Places across Victoria including scatters and artefacts have
been extracted from the Victorian Aboriginal Places database (VAHIS).
Areas of Cultural Heritage
Sensitivity
✔
✔
Areas of Cultural Heritage Sensitivity are areas that have the potential
for containing Aboriginal cultural heritage places and objects and have
been derived from areas where Aboriginal cultural heritage places and
objects are known to exist or are likely to exist. ‘Areas of Cultural Heritage
Sensitivity’ are Specified in Division 3 of Part 2 in The Victorian Aboriginal
Heritage Regulations 2007.
Commerical and
Recreational Fishing
✔
✔
Fisheries include abalone, rock lobster, ocean general and inshore trawl.
Heritage Register
(Archaeological sites)
✔
The Victorian Heritage Register lists the State’s most significant heritage
places and objects. Heritage places can include buildings, trees, parks and
gardens, streetscapes, archaeological sites, shipwrecks and structures
such as bandstands. A heritage object can include furniture, shipwreck
relics, archaeological artefacts, equipment, transport vehicles, and articles
of everyday use that contribute to an understanding of Victoria’s history.
Heritage places and objects listed on the Victorian Heritage Register are
protected under the Heritage Act 1995.
Heritage Inventory
(Archaeological sites not
verified and in Register)
✔
The Heritage Inventory contains site descriptions, plans, locations, and
preliminary assessments of the importance of each site. Heritage objects
and artefacts which have been found and recorded in Victoria are also
listed. These may range from pieces of machinery to a scatter of crockery
and glass.
Social
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 105
Historic Places (non-Aboriginal)
✔
It is important to include values for non-Aboriginal historic sites on
Victorian public land, collected as a result of field survey by DSE and
Environment staff and contractors.
Heritage Planning Overlay (BCSC)
✔
Heritage places recorded in Heritage Planning overlays have local
significance. They contribute to the individuality and streetscape,
townscape, landscape or natural character of an area and are managed by
local government. They often reflect the socio-economic or natural history
of a local area. For example, chicory kiln.
Significant Landscape Planning
Overlay (BCSC)
✔
Landscapes may be valued for cultural significance, which includes
aesthetic, historic, social, spiritual and scientific values. Significant
landscapes include geological and geomorphologic features.
Recreational sites including
walking tracks (BCSC,
Nature Parks)
✔
Walking tracks, lookout points and picnic areas are part of this dataset.
Walking and picnicking in these areas can be enjoyed by local residents
and/or visitors to the area. It provides people with an opportunity to enjoy
natural wilderness values.
Camping areas, picnic areas
and all high-use recreation sites
within or adjacent to Public land.
✔
Camping areas, picnic areas and popular recreation sites provide people
with an opportunity to enjoy the natural environment.
Coast care and other
community groups
✔
Coastcare and community groups provide a social value because they
demonstrate that the community is actively involved and interested in
protecting their natural assets. Groups can also help with policy schemes
such as tree planting designed to protect an asset.
Buoys, beacons, rocks and wrecks
✔
Buoys, beacons provide social value because they offer navigational
protection for boating and sailing enthusiasts. Wrecks can also support
marine life and be valued by divers. Historic shipwrecks protected by the
Historic Shipwrecks Act 1976 which applies in relation to waters adjacent
to the coast of the State of Victoria.
Recreational diving locations
✔
Diving locations can provide recreational enjoyment for local residents
and can attract visitors to the area. They are also usually associated with
important marine life and/or wrecks.
Safe swimming beaches
(rating of safety)
✔
✔
Swimming is a popular recreational activity that can provide enjoyment
for local residents and can attract visitors to the area.
Surfing locations
✔
✔
Surfing is a popular recreational activity that can provide enjoyment
for local residents and can attract visitors to the area.
Surf lifesaving clubs/
visitor centres
✔
✔
Surf lifesaving clubs and visitor centres are an economic value because
they provide supporting services for tourists and the local community
such as kiosks, surf rescue.
Towns
✔
✔
Towns are an economic value because they provide accommodation for
tourists and supporting services for the local community and tourism.
Built-up areas
✔
✔
Built-up areas are areas where there is usually a higher density population
that can access an asset and contribute to schemes to protect an asset.
They are also an indication of resources that may be available in the area
for asset protection.
Roads
✔
✔
Roads provide an economic value because they provide accessibility
to an asset.
Safe swimming beaches
✔
✔
Swimming is a popular recreational activity that can provide enjoyment
for local residents and can attract visitors to the area. Loss of wide sandy
beaches due to climate variation could impact on economic outputs.
Economic
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Phillip Island Nature Parks
14.6 Appendix 6: Intertidal Species Found
On the Nobbies Rock Platform
5
Flora: Neptune’s Necklace Hormosira banksia, Bubble
Weed Rivularia sp., Strap Weed Lessonia corrugate, Sea
Lettuce Ulva lactuca, Green Sea Velvet Codium fragile,
Mermaids Necklace Chaetomorpha darwinii and various
coraline algae Janus species.
6
7
Molluscs: Banded Periwinkle Littorina unifasciata,
Checked Periwinkle L. praetermissa, limpets Siphonaria
diemenensis, Parelloida aliticostata, Cellana tamoserica,
Ribbed Top Shell, Austrocohlea constricta, Chiton species
Ichnoiadsia sp. australis and Poneroplax albida, Dog
Winkle Thais orbita and Elephant Snail Scutus antipodes.
Athropods: Acorn Barnacles Chthamalus antennatus,
Honeycomb Barnacles Chamaesipho columna, Common
Rock Barnacles Tesseropora purpurescens, Notched
Shore Crab Paragrapsus quadridentatus and Decorator
Crab Naxia tumida.
(Information collated from Considine, M. 1979. ‘The
feeding behaviour of the Sooty Oystercatcher
(Haematopus fuliginosus) on rocky shores in Victoria’. BSc
Hons Thesis, Monash University and Nature Parks staff
observations).
15 References and Abbreviations:
BS-N BioSite of National Significance
BS-S BioSite of State Significance
CL-N Coastal Landscape of National Significance
G-N Geological Site of National significance
G-S Geological Site of State significance
G-R Geological Site of Regional significance
HRS Heritage Register, Shipwreck
DSE Department of Sustainability and Environment
1
2
3
4
Coastal Landscapes Assessment Study, Planisphere, DSE 2006
Coastal Landscapes Assessment Study, Planisphere, DSE 2006
Coastal Landscapes Assessment Study, Planisphere, DSE 2006
Low, T. (2008). Climate Change and Invasive Species: A Review of
Interactions. Canberra, Biological Diversity Advisory Committee
McInnes, K. and Hubbert, G.D. (2003). A numerical modelling study
of storm surges in Bass Strait. Australian Meteorological Magazine
52: 143-156
McInness K. Mcadam, I., and O’ Gradey, J.(2007). Effect of Climate
Change on Extreme Sea Levels in the Western Port Region. A project
undertaken for the Australian Greenhouse Office and Department
of Sustainability and Environment, Victoria. CSIRO Marine and
Atmospheric Research, Melbourne
Kincade, P, and Justus, M. (2008). Impacts of Climate Change on
settlements in the Western Port Region. CSIRO
Melbourne Water (2011). Understanding the Western Port
Environment. A summary of current knowledge and priorities for
future research. Melbourne Water
Hansen, B., Menkhorst, P. and Loyn, R. (2011) Western Port
Welcomes Waterbirds: waterbird usage of Western Port. Arthur Rylah
Institute for Environmental Research Technical Report Series No.
222. Department Sustainability and Environment, Heidelberg,
Victoria
Commonwealth of Australia. (2009). Climate Change, Risks to
Australia’s Coasts. First Pass National Assessment. Commonwealth
of Australia
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
Hobday, A.J., Okey, T.A. Poloczanska, E.S., Kunz, T.J. and
Richardson, A.J. (2006). Impacts of Climate Change on Australian
Marine Life. Part A: Executive Summary Australian Greenhouse
Office, Department of the Environment and Heritage.
Melbourne Water 2011
McHugh, M. and Halley, M. (2005). Biodiversity Action Planning.
Landscape Plan for the Gippsland Bioregion. Phillip Island Landscape
Zone. Flora and Fauna, Port Phillip Regions, DSE
Ibid
DSE “A hierarchical system of classification of plant communities
has been developed in Victoria over the past decade in order
to classify vegetation into units that are both ecologically
meaningful and useful for natural resource managers.
Approximately 300 EVCs have been described for Victoria”
Sutter, G. and Downe, J. (2000). Vegetation community survey
and mapping of the Phillip Island Nature Park. Unpublished report
prepared for the Phillip Island Nature Park Board. Arthur Rylah
Institute for Environmental Research, Heidelberg, Victoria
DSE, (2003). Flora and Fauna Action Statement, Hooded Plover
Charadrius rubricollis. State Government of Victoria.
Department of Natural Resources & Environment 1999
Water Ecoscience (2003). Freshwater Fish and Macro-invertebrate
Survey of Phillip Island Nature Parks. A prepared by Water
Ecoscience for Phillip Island Nature Parks.
Ibid
Thomas, I. (2011). Pollen analysis of sediments in and around Swan
Lake, Summerland Peninsula, Phillip Island, Victoria.Report to Phillip
Island Nature Parks
Brothers, N. and Harris, S. (1999). The effects of fire on burrownesting seabirds particularly Short-tailed Shearwaters (Puffinus
tenuirostris) and their habitat in Tasmania. Paper and proceedings
of the Royal Society of Tasmania, 133(1) 15-22
Gaughwin, D. (1981) Sites of archaeological significance in the
Westernport Catchment. Environmental Studies Series No.367.
Ministry for Conservation. Melbourne
Aboriginal Affairs Victoria 2006
WorleyParsons, (2011). Marine and Coastal Assets of the Gippsland
Coastal Region. Report prepared for the Gippsland Coastal Board
Morrees, A. and Molnar, C. (1992). Sites of botanical significance
in the Land Conservation Council Melbourne District 2 - study area.
Flora and Fauna Division, Department of Conservation and
Environment, Victoria
CL-N L10076
Bennet, I. and Pope, E. (1953). Intertidal zonation of the exposed
rocky shores of Victoria, together with a rearrangement of the
biogeographical provinces of temperate Australian shores.
Australian Journal of Marine and Freshwater Research 4: 105-159
Synott, R. N. and Westcott, G.C. (1976). Zonation at Flinders
Reef, Westernport. An introduction to Victorian intertidal ecology
with specific reference to the Flinders Reef, Westernport. Victorian
Naturalist 93: 97-107
BS-N 4661
Register of the National Estate 21/10/1980Place ID 5877
HRS S603 Sally
G-S 188
BS-N 1558
Excludes Cowries Beach, Cat Bay, Shelly Beach, Flynns Beach and
Summerland Bay
CL-N L10076
HRS SV93 Birchgrove; S514 Palace
G-S 188
BS-N 1558
CL-N L10076
BS-N 1558
BS-N 1558
G-R 187
HRS S684 Tyro
Cutriss, L and Bird E. (1995). 500 million years on Phillip Island. Bass
Coast Shire Council.
BS-N 1558
Environment Plan 2012–2017
Page 107
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
61
62
63
64
65
66
67
68
69
70
71
72
73
74
75
76
77
78
79
80
81
82
83
84
G-S 186G-S 189
BS-N 5155
CL-N L10076
G-S 189
BS-S 4738
CL-N L10076
BS-N 1558
BS-N 1558
G-S 190
CL-N L10076
G-N 191
BS-N 1558
HRS S627 Speke
CL-N L10076
G-N 191
BS-N 1558
CL-N L10076
G -192 Redcliff Head (R); 193 Pyramid Rock, (S)
BS-N 1558
CL-N L10076
CL-N L10076
G- 196 Smiths Beach (S); 196 Smiths Beach hanging valley (R); 197
Sunderland Bay – cliff stacks (R)
BS-N 1558
Coastal Landscape of National significance L10076
G- 197 Sunderland Bay cliff-stacks (R); 198 Surfies Point cliff top
dunes (R)
G- 197 Sunderland Bay cliff-stacks (R); 198 Surfies Point cliff top
dunes (R)
BS-N 1558
G-R 199
BS-N 1558
G-R 199
Sutter, G. and Downe, J. (2000). Vegetation community survey and
mapping of the Phillip Island Nature Park. Unpublished report
prepared for the Phillip Island Nature Park Board. Arthur Rylah
Institute for Environmental Research, Heidelberg, Victoria
G-S 178
Hansen, B., Menkhorst, P. and Loyn, R. (2011) Western Port
Welcomes Waterbirds: waterbird usage of Western Port. Arthur Rylah
Institute for Environmental Research Technical Report Series No.
222. Department of Sustainability and Environment, Heidelberg,
Victoria
DSE (2006). Rhyll Special Management Area Management
Statement. DSE
Andrew, D., Lumsden, L. and Dixon, J. (1984). Sites of zoological
significance in the Westernport region.Environmental Study Series
No. 327. Ministry for Conservation, Victoria
BS-S 1568
G-R 179
Bennets, K. and Cook D. Phillip Island Wetlands. (2008). A report
prepared by Australian Ecosystems for the Phillip Island
Nature Park
Rogers, K. Saintilan, H. and Heijinis, H. (2005). Mangrove
encroachment of salt marsh in Western Port Bay, Victoria: The role of
sedimentation, subsidence and sea level rise. Estuaries and Coasts
28: 551-559
G-S Site 178
DSE (2006). Rhyll Special Management Area Management
Statement. DSE
G-S Site 178
BS-S 1568
BS-S 1568
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Phillip Island Nature Parks
85 G-S Site 178
86 Hansen, B., Menkhorst, P. and Loyn, R. (2011), Western Port
Welcomes Waterbirds: Improving our understanding of waterbird use
of Western Port. Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research
Technical Report Series No. 222, Department of Sustainability and
Environment
87 G-S Site 178
88 DSE (2006). Rhyll Special Management Area Management
Statement. DSE
89 G-R 173
90 BS-N 4739
91 Victorian Heritage Register H1614
92 G-R 173
93 Victorian Heritage Register H1614
94 G 174 Swan Corner (R); 175 Chambers Point to Long Point (S); 176
Koolyns - Silurian Outcrop (S)
95 Geological site of state significance 172
96 Rosengren, N. (1984). Sites of geological significance in the
Westernport Bay Catchment. Conservation Forests and Lands
97 Norman, F.I. and Gottsch, M.D. (1969). The Phillip Island colonies
of the Tasmanian muttonbird, with special reference to those at
Cape Woolamai. Emu 69 , 137–144
98 Oates, A. and Frood, D. (2010). Cape Woolamai Vegetation
Management Plan. A report prepared for Phillip Island
Nature Parks
99 BS-S 4736
100 Oates, A. and Frood, D. (2010). Cape Woolamai Vegetation
Management Plan. A report prepared for Phillip Island
Nature Parks
101 Rosengren, N. (1984). Sites of geological significance in the
Westernport Bay Catchment. Conservation Forests and Lands
102 Surfing Life Saving Australia http//beachsafe.org.au
103 G-N 170&171
104 BS-S 4736
105 Oates, A. and Frood, D. (2010). Cape Woolamai Vegetation
Management Plan. A report prepared for Phillip Island
Nature Parks
106 Ibid
107 G-N 170&171
108 HRS S249 Evergreen
Phillip Island Nature Parks Environment Plan 2012–2017 is available online www.penguins.org.au
PO Box 97 Cowes, Victoria 3922 Australia | Telephone: +61 3 5951 2820 Fax: +61 3 5956 8394 | Email: [email protected]