YALLOCK-BULLUK MARINE AND COASTAL PARK DRAFT ACCESS AND INFRASTRUCTURE PLAN - Version C_March 23 2021 - Parks Victoria
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Hassell 61 Little Collins Street Melbourne VIC Australia 3000 hassellstudio.com @hassell_studio Prepared For 2 Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park Access and Infrastructure Plan
TABLE OF CONTENTS Table of Contents 3 Chapter 3 - Draft Access and Infrastructure 47 Acknowledgements 5 Plan Welcome to Country 6 Park infrastructure and Services 48 Connecting with Country 7 Park Experience 50 Chapter 1 - Setting the Scene 9 San Remo 52 Introduction 10 Kilcunda 54 Purpose 14 Powlett River 56 The creation of a new park 16 Wonthaggi West 58 Project Vision 18 Wonthaggi South 60 AIP Objectives 19 Harmers Haven 62 Stakeholder Engagement 20 Cape Paterson 64 Chapter 2 - Design Strategies 25 Bunurong Coastal Drive 66 Caring For Country - Culture and Heritage 28 Inverloch 68 The Strata of Time 30 Wonthaggi to Inverloch Inland Route 70 Caring For Country - Environment 32 Chapter 4 - Draft Access Infrastructure 73 Understanding Coastal and Marine Processes 34 Park Infrastructure Supporting Facilities 74 Access to Country - Loops and Journeys 36 Car Park Upgrade Shack Bay 76 Trail Network 37 Car Park Upgrade The Caves 77 Journey Options 38 Along the way - Trail Nodes 78 Access to Experience 40 Park Infrastructure Kit of Parts 90 Park Supporting Services 42 Park Infrastructure Trail Design 80 Accessibility and Track Grading 44 Bunurong Coastal Drive Trail Options 82 Appendix 1 - Supporting Studies 85 Trail Grading Analysis 86 Appendix 2 - Benchmarks and Precedents 93 Three Capes Track 94 Copper Coast Geopark 95 Park Infrastructure Precedents 96 Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park Access and Infrastructure Plan 3
Acknowledgement to Country We pay our respects and acknowledge Bunurong ancestors, Bunurong elders, the Bunurong community and to our community who call Bunurong Country their home. Our land and waters are our home, it is our cultural landscape that we work towards protecting and preserving for our next generation and for all people on Bunurong Country to value and appreciate. It is a landscape that we connect with our ancestors and nurture our spirits. Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park Access and Infrastructure Plan 5
WELCOME TO COUNTRY Respects are given. Welcomes are made. To those now passed in earth they lay. Step gently upon these graves and the spirits shall guide you, They will keep you safe, You will travel across land to Where waves are made. Where feasts were once eaten Where old middens lay. This sacred place in which our past remains. Poem by Darrel Gibbs The illiterate poet. 6 Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park Access and Infrastructure Plan
CONNECTING WITH COUNTRY Country is living, constantly changing, and evolving. Country is not only the actual physical land, soil or rock, Traveling the Coast The YBAIP enables connection to the cultural and natural values of the park by: that can be stepped upon. Country rather describes the connection between all living and material entities Travel routes, thousands of years in use, connect the ‒ Providing access to information through signage that together form the landscape, including biological, various ceremonial places, living places and sacred ‒ Providing access to information through geomorphological, hydraulic, and even climatic systems places along the Bass Coast. Weaving between ocean interpretation and inclusion of narratives into and processes. break - even beyond over land now submerged, along built form, such as lookouts, shelters, rest stops It includes the person that visits, walks, rides or lives waterways and rivers, and across wetlands teeming [trailheads and trail nodes] and furniture. here. with life. Through sand, forest and scrub. ‒ Respecting and engaging with the values that Country describes a tight and symbiotic relationship When traveling, groups consisting of elders and young, Bunurong people share with the broader between human and landscape, one that is respectful, would use resting times and locations to spin a yarn, community. loving and responsible. This relationship goes both tell a story, teach some knowledge. ways. Today, when taking those routes, ‘yarning circles Country is culture. and places’ along the various routes could provide sky Bunurong people have developed a deep opportunities to engage with nature, oneself or fellow understanding of, and a caring relationship to Country walkers. - and invite non-aboriginal visitors to engage with this relationship and to join becoming a fellow custodian of the land. The Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park Access and Infrastructure Plan [YBAIP] can explore how a deeper connection between land and visitor can be achieved, through the creation of awareness and understanding, Earth through the development of opportunities of active engagement. The Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation Sea are working actively with Parks Victoria and DELWP to establish shared roles and responsibilities in management and curation of the park. Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park Access and Infrastructure Plan 7
INTRODUCTION The Bass Coast is located The Site The Setting a 90 minute drive from Dramatic cliffs give way to sandy beaches and, at low tide, rock shelves expose a diverse intertidal marine For many thousands of years the Bass Coast has been home to the Bunurong people. Rich hunting grounds Melbourne and offers scape of pools, seagrass beds and an abundance of marine life. along the coast, in the water, and on land supported settlements such as the large village near San Remo, some of Victoria’s most Lookouts at coastal formations such as the iconic Eagles recorded in 1826 as a settlement of 50 to 100 huts. visited and internationally Nest rock stack provide extensive views along the dramatic Bass Strait coastline, and offer opportunities Large shell middens and the many sacred sites, places and artefacts along the coast are powerful reminders recognised tourism for wildlife watching. Whales can be seen close to the coastline on their annual migrations during winter and of a human history within these landscapes. With its unique natural reserves and extensive fertile destinations, including early spring. The rugged cliffs and headlands that were formed agricultural land the Bass Coast shire area is recognised as a unique place of environmental significance where Phillip Island and its around 95 million years ago are famous for the rich a tranquil lifestyle is paired with strong economic Penguin Parade. The inclusion of fossil finds of national significance. The coastal headlands form a dramatic backdrop for growth based on tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, and residential development. Bass Coast Shire aspires coast continues east with water based recreational activities such as surfing, kayaking, fishing and boating that occur along the [Bass Coast Shire Council Strategic Hierarchy 2016] to be recognised as: another natural highlight, protected bays. The townships like San Remo, Kilcunda, ‒ A celebration of natural assets; the inspiring wilderness of Cape Paterson and Inverloch are popular destinations during the summer months. ‒ A window on the history of Victoria; the Wilsons Promontory The land is covered with a fragile layer of sensitive vegetation, hardy enough to withstand the raw coastal ‒ A village in a technology world; and ‒ A food bowl for Victoria. National Park with South processes, yet vulnerable to human impacts, and changing climatic conditions. Many of the present flora The Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park has other Gippsland on its doorstep. and fauna communities are listed as endangered and associated active government work that is relevant to the overall planning. This planning may continue to vulnerable. be influenced by and responsive to these associated projects and include the Distinctive Area Landscape work, new school location, Cape to Cape Resilience Project (Inverloch Regional and Strategic Partnership) for coastal processes at Inverloch, and future road changes.’ 10 Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park Access and Infrastructure Plan
Melbourne Yarra Ranges National Park Pakenham Longford M1 Prin Geelong cess Hig Frankston hway M 420 Trafalgar Port Phillip Bay Tarra-Bulga Queenscliff National Park Western Port Bay French Island Nyora Hastings M Hig 440 hw Gip ay psl an d Phillip Island Cowes Leongatha B460 San Remo REGIONAL ACCESS MAP Anderson Major Road Connection Wonthaggi Inverloch Road Connection Cape Paterson Legend Ferry Route REGIONAL ACCESS MAP Regional Access Major Road Connection REGIONAL ACCESS MAP V/Line The Bass Coast Coachfrom Phillip stretches Road Connection Major Road Connection Island in the west to Andersons Inlet Route Ferry Existing and Inverloch to theRail east.Trail It is located V/Line Coach Road Connection Wilsons Promontory Ferry Route approximately 100km from Melbourne Existing Rail Trail Proposed Rail Trail Proposed Rail Trail National Park V/Line Coach and is well connected via the South GippslandProject FreewaySite and Bass Highway.Project Site Tidal River Existing Rail Trail Public transport connects Melbourne Coach Destinations Proposed Rail Trail Coach Destinations with all townships including Cowes, Coach Stops on Site Project Site National Parks San Remo, Kilcunda, Wonthaggi and Coach Destinations Inverloch.Coach Stops on Site Coach Stops on Site 0 10 20 30 40km National Parks National Parks Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park Access and Infrastructure Plan 11
The Project The Brief The project will resolve: As part of the $105.6 million ‘Victoria’s Great Outdoors’ The access and infrastructure plan [AIP] will design a ‒ Trail alignment; initiative, the Victorian Government is creating the complete walking and cycling trail connecting the 40km ‒ Trail interface with townships and the establishment Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park [YBMCP]. It will of coastal landscapes between San Remo and Inverloch of trailheads including carparking and amenities; combine existing parks and reserves along 40km of and providing improved visitor amenities to better coast from San Remo to Inverloch. ‒ Trail infrastructure such as resting, viewing and engage with attractions along the coast. access to attractions including the detailed The Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park is created The AIP focuses on the trail and associated visitor under the National Parks Act to improve environmental development of bridges, boardwalks, beach access, experience infrastructure. It is the first step toward seating and viewing points; protection along the sensitive coast and is set to establishing a marine and coastal park that will: protect and enhance the land and waterscapes along ‒ Delivery and maintenance strategies; and the coastline between San Remo and Inverloch, ‒ Reposition the existing and proposed experiences ‒ Construction budget estimates to support the to improve access to these landscapes, providing into an attractive destination; delivery on ground. opportunities for all ability users and visitors to engage ‒ Diversify the number and type of visitors attracted to The project further identifies additional opportunities with the natural and cultural values, stories and visit the coast; for linkages, destinations and improvements to existing features of the coast. ‒ Provide a diverse range of experiences for visitors to assets, which are beyond the extent and scope of the The park’s name honours the Yallock-Bulluk Clan of the enjoy; YBAIP. Bunurong People whose Country spans across the park areas. Yallock translates to ‘river’ and Bulluk to ‘swamp’ ‒ Curate the experiences into a cohesive regional - a reference to the landscape characteristics of the offering that supports the Bass Coast visitor region. economy; Whilst the park’s proposed boundaries are based ‒ Invite visitors to spend more time and extend each on consolidating individual reserves and parks, it is stay in the region and by effect - increase the visitor expected that further land acquisition over time in spend to support direct and indirect benefits. strategic locations will assist in achieving the vision for A second focus of the plan is to understand how the the park. park may evolve over time through the influences and The core objective of the project is to invite a wide relationships with its adjacencies. variety of different visitors to spend time in the region, The new park will both influence and be influenced by enjoy its produce and experiences and contribute to a range of dynamic factors and variables that include the local economies. In exchange, the new park status the natural changes that shape the coast; the way is better placed in protecting the very natural and that the local villages and towns interface with the cultural values that visitors come to enjoy. park; and the evolution of existing and creation of new services and businesses that will grow around the experiences that are created. 12 Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park Access and Infrastructure Plan
The George Bass Coastal Walk is popular amongst walkers Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park Access and Infrastructure Plan 13
PURPOSE promote travel [like trail running events or exhibitions]. In recent years Gippsland has undergone significant structural changes to sector investment and diminished innovation in the diversification and modernisation of the visitor Demand drivers act as anchors for other tourism its economy. These changes have resulted in profound flow-on effects to experience sector. investment including in accommodation, hospitality, the region including significant negative impacts to employment and the Gippsland is a truly spectacular and unique part of retail and other attractions that cannot attract visitors to travel in isolation. The clustering of activities and region’s communities. Victoria, with a diverse landscape characterised by mountains and valleys, bays and beaches that are attractions and the development of tourism routes are supported by a rich network of touring routes. vital components of effective tourism development. Unlocking the potential of these destinations and Caring For Country ‒ Wonthaggi Heathland Nature Conservation Reserve; experiences into a cohesive offering presents a great Unique Offer ‒ Punchbowl Coastal Reserve; and opportunity to make this part of Victoria a year-round The YBAIP and its associated trail network offers unique Human habitation and custodianship of the coastal draw card for domestic and international visitors, and and marine landscapes has occurred over millennia. ‒ Parts of San Remo, Kilcunda and Cape Paterson opportunities compared to other trail experiences Foreshore reserves. just a short drive from Melbourne. across Australia. Typically walking trails in Australia This continues today. The recognised Traditional Owners of this Country and Sea Country, the Bunurong, are located wholly within national parks and far from have managed the lands, and the water, in a deep The consolidation of these reserves and parks into a Bushfires and COVID 19 towns. The proposed trail will deliberately link through relationship and understanding of its flora, fauna, single marine and coastal park allows better protection The devastating bushfires of the summer 2019-2020 the towns and rural settings of the area to provide landforms and water bodies. of their environmental values, including threatened season had substantial impact on life in regional a unique and engaging experience. Nature will be Traditional Owners are represented as key project ecologies and habitat such as Coast Banksia Woodland. Victoria, not only destroying invaluable habitat celebrated, as well as the history and culture of the partners through the Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal The protection of environmental values extends onto and natural systems, but also destroying lives and area’s communities and agricultural landscapes. Corporation [BLCAC]. the extensive intertidal rock platforms, such as Twin businesses, mostly depending on income generated Visitors can immerse themselves in nature but also This project bears the opportunity to strengthen the Reefs, which are rare along the Victorian coast. The through tourism. stop in the region for high-quality accommodation, close relationship of Indigenous communities to their range of species and biological communities, their The COVID 19 pandemic has highlighted the shopping, connected experiences [such as historic lands, securing and growing roles and responsibilities, relatively undisturbed condition and the occurrence of importance of locally available open space and sites, cellar doors or markets], and hospitality. For the as well as economic opportunities for the indigenous less common habitat types makes both the intertidal recreational opportunities. Whilst it is not yet fully communities of the Bass Coast, this means that existing community. This role may extend to shared land and subtidal areas highly valuable as a natural understood what implication the pandemic will have and new businesses are capturing a more significant management services, opportunities to arrange resource. on international travel and tourism in Australia, it is share of tourist expenditure. cultural events and ceremonies, and sharing knowledge Through carefully curated improvement of access and certain that local and regional demand for nature The proposed trail will offer a new type of experience with the broader local and visiting communities. amenities within the park, a balance can be achieved based recreation will increase in the interim. in the Victorian market. This will ensure that the trail between the protection, and in fact, increase of will complement and enhance Victoria’s offer and Environmental Protection environmental value of the project area whilst at the Visitor Economy create new demand. same time catering for the increased visitation demand Critically, the trail will be accessible to all income The new park will create a connected ecological and changing visitor uses. The proposed trail and its associated infrastructure can groups, ages and fitness levels through the multitude corridor between San Remo and Inverloch by add significant value to the region and Victoria. of entry and exit points. People can have a luxury The trail can leverage existing natural and cultural amalgamating the following parks and reserves under schedule 3 of the National Parks Act: Contextual assets to attract tourists in search of new, authentic experience with high-quality accommodation and excellent food and wine, or camp and bring their own As the region’s traditional industries provided strong experiences. Visitors that come to experience the park supplies for a budget option. The target market for ‒ Bunurong Marine Park; employment and underpinned the economy for much are likely to expand their activities into townships and the trail is therefore vast, due to the ‘choose your own ‒ Bunurong Coastal Reserve; of the 20th century, the visitor economy received little surrounding tourism offer. adventure’ experience on offer. ‒ Kilcunda-Harmers Haven Coastal Reserve; investment or attention during this period. The trail can act as a demand driver. Demand drivers The resultant lack of public investment in the visitor can create and encourage visitation to a destination economy was compounded by waning private and are ‘must-see’ attractions or host activities that 14 Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park Access and Infrastructure Plan
Benefits Retail Community based The trail and its associated attractions can attract Landcare Programs There are many benefits to the trail. The trail will seek further investment from the private and public sector, Bunurong Cultural to: Food and Beverages Events and Ceremonies and can increase visitation to Bass Coast matching ‒ Enhance the visitor experience; that of Victoria into the future. This could result in an estimated increase of day visitors by the year 2035 Shuttle Services and ‒ Protect and conserve natural and cultural heritage Transport by an additional 232,000 visitors per annum, and values; Local Produce overnight stays may increase by 400,000, boosting local ‒ Increase visitation across the year (into shoulder and economy. The predicted growth equates to an increase Bike Rentals off-peak times); of 12.7 and 12 per cent respectively. ‒ Encourage more people to visit the outdoors and be active; The project aims to establish narratives and Accommodation Fossil Tours ‒ Encourage flow-on private investment through the experiences around the cultural, natural, heritage demand for accommodation, food and beverages, and geological values of the region. This strategy and retail; can assist to link to broader initiatives by various ‒ Deepen, broaden and amplify the brand profile of agencies including local and state government bodies. Historical Tours Temporary Arts the region; As a result, a holistically curated visitor experience Events within the Bass Coast region could be established and ‒ Provide new recreational opportunities for the local assist in the establishment of a geopark, which as a population; globally established tourism offer blurs the boundaries Cultural Events and Re-Vegetation ‒ Generate employment pathways for younger between park, farmland and urban spaces in creating a Markets Programs residents; coherent, branded visitor experience. ‒ Allow for the development of a network of Running and Cycling Events School and attractions and commercial partnerships; and Education Camps ‒ Through the above, ultimately to connect people Geo-Caching back to Country, re-establishing the links of awareness, care and responsibility. The number of people visiting the region, along with the length of time spent per visit, can increase because of the development of the trail and its positioning as an iconic visitor attraction for the Bass Coast. Similar trails around Australia attract around 50,000- 60,000 visits each year. The trail network may expect similar visitation in the medium term (3-10 years after development). In addition, 27 per cent of the Latrobe- Gippsland population are interested in bushwalking and would also use the trail network. Economic Spin-off opportunities of the YBAIP One of the core elements of the trail is its contribution The trail and its associated infrastructure provide opportunities for the public and private sector to as an anchor and stimulus for the broader tourism offer connect with the park and its users. The above shows some of these connection options. in Bass Coast, growing regional visitation in total. Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park Access and Infrastructure Plan 15
THE CREATION OF A NEW PARK way h Bass Hig Phillip Is land Roa d The Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park is created by the amalgamation of various existing coastal parks and reserves, managed currently by state or local governments. Some other sections of Crown land are currently managed by committees of management. Land acquisition of private land in strategic locations for the park over time is considered to enhance connectivity of the various reserves and trail network. Wonthaggi Heathland Nature Conservation Reserve Kilcunda Kilcunda - Harmers Haven San Remo Foreshore Punchbowl Foreshore Coastal Reserve Reserve Coastal Reserve Reserve Legend YBMCP Extents Existing Parks and Reserve Boundaries 1 2 3 4 5 km 16 Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park Access and Infrastructure Plan
Bass Highway Bunurong Coastal Reserve Road Cape Paterson Coastal Reserve k -Kongwa Inverloch Foreshore Reserve Inverloch Bass Hig hway d Berrys Roa Ca pe Pa ter so n Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park Access and Infrastructure Plan 17
PROJECT VISION Vision Design Response The trail and associated infrastructure through the To create a unique, site responsive visitor Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park will be experience through the design of a quality trail recognised as a centerpiece of the new marine and associated infrastructure that will highlight and and coastal park and a wonderful multi-day accentuate the coastal environment and significant route for visitors to the Bass Coast. The trail natural features and cultural values of the site. invites people to slow down and connect with the coast's rich natural and cultural landscapes Parks Victoria Design Brief 2019 and to engage visitors in a rewarding regional experience focused in and around the local villages and towns. 18 Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park Access and Infrastructure Plan
YBAIP OBJECTIVES The following five objectives inform the translation of the brief to the design process and have been identified as: Culture and Experiences Environment Access and Operations heritage movement and management ‒ Design and plan for a park ‒ Conserve and recognise culturally ‒ Raise the profile and positioning ‒ Conserve, protect, repair and ‒ Optimise accessibility of the trail boundary that may change over significant sites of Aboriginal and of the experience with the trail enhance the park's natural values. by connecting it to the broader time with the park boundary being European heritage. as the center piece of the visitor ‒ Connect and link the park's coastal road network and public transport augmented. ‒ Through design reflect the experience. and marine natural systems to options. ‒ Leverage the trail's proximity and knowledge systems, values and ‒ Connect the trail to the existing amplify and leverage a broader ‒ Improve connections of townships relationship to each town for beliefs of the Traditional Owners to visitor experience network of trails, environmental improvement with the park through better supporting services, management enrich the visitor experience. services and products to support a program. linking pathways and defining and operational needs. ‒ Through the AIP and associated range of links, loops and journeys. ‒ Consider the trail's setting as one borders. ‒ Develop the rural and coastal land services - create new opportunities ‒ Design to enable the network of part of an integrated landscape and ‒ Provide defined entry points into relationship to leverage benefits for the Bunurong people for experiences to evolve, expand and environmental system. the park [trailheads]. and services for the park and cultural, social and economic grow over time. ‒ Enable the engagement of landcare ‒ Enable growing visitor numbers townships. benefits. ‒ Curate an intuitive and immersive groups and other not for profit to engage with the park and its ‒ Implement the access and ‒ Harness local pride and productivity interpretative and education organisations to connect to the attractions. infrastructure plan in a phased, to connect the trail experience to experience along the trail through a park. ‒ Create and build on a series of trail managed and sustainable way that its regional surrounding offer. variety of communication channels. ‒ Explain the coast’s significance and network connections establishing enables it to evolve. ‒ Consider the characteristics of the ‒ Take a whole of landscape enable people to engage with its loops and choices for trails of ‒ Design for the long-term and park that may elevate its attraction approach. values. various lengths and difficulties. consider capital expenditure to local and broader communities. ‒ Promote the hinterland’s farming ‒ Provide access to the natural ‒ Enhance access for all abilities to with ongoing maintenance and heritage, scenic values, landscape, values of the land, both the living key attractions of the park. operations costs. ecologies and cultural landscape. environments and the geological ‒ Identify trails through the trail ‒ Develop a clear identity and ‒ Appreciate each town’s nature, foundations. grading system to communicate marketing strategy for the park and character and identity through ‒ Design for visitation which level of challenge to visitors. its attractions. authentic local experiences. mitigates impacts on the parks’ ‒ Develop a comprehensive signage ‒ Collaborate with partners and ecology and cultural values. and wayfinding strategy to engage with stakeholders regarding improve on access to information connected tourism experiences. in the park. Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park Access and Infrastructure Plan 19
STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT The access and infrastructure plan is informed by The comments have been grouped according to Access and movement Key Findings stakeholder “exploring with and my dogcommunity on leash” engagement, alongside a Trail features the five themes of project objectives: Access and This theme addresses the actual infrastructure that is range - survey ofrespondent technical studies. Movement; Experiences; Culture and Heritage; The key findings from phase one of community Survey respondents gave feedback on the important provided in the park to enable the experiences, such as consultation were: The Otherfirst phasesuch recreation of community as horse riding,consultation paragliding was Environment; heldof a trail through features Operations and Management. the multiple-choice car parking, walking trails, township connections etc. inand running was between mentioned 8 May and by 28some Juneparticipants. 2020. Participantsquestion: ‘What featuresThese summarise are important as follow: in a trail?’. contributed “Hang gliding through surveysurfing and paragliding responses and walking shown in Figure 5, these responses largely to theAsEngage Information sharing ‒ A trail that respects the natural environment and access” - survey respondent aligned with the qualitative answers about what Operations and Management: showcases the beauty of the coastline between San Victoria platform, online community information Culture and Heritage: respondents would like to see and do on the trail. Sharing information and signage emerged as a Multi-day experiences were mentioned by some theme in response to being asked about This whattheme focuses on all issues around management Remo and Inverloch; sessions and an online workshop. AdditionalThe participants, including those who are interested in feedback This theme most popular response is focusing was for clear directionalon all cultural and participants heritage would like to see and do on the trail. was sought through There was a further question about what and maintenance values in including needs to clean and ‒ The importance of protecting local environmental overnight hiking, campingaand targeted survey an experience thatfor young signage (69%) followed by lookouts (65%) and both Aboriginal and colonial and can they leadaretomost strategies promotesbetween people overnight stays 10-31in nearby beach towns. Altogether, almost July 2020. access (64%). The ‘other’ comments tended the area maintain assets such as toilets. interested in learning about. and Aboriginal cultural values; to express to mention specific facilities such asthese toilets, stories or and narratives As shown inin the 10, Figure park. there was a very strong Some 800 participants people commented through participated that they dosurveys, not wish community specific recreational activities. appetite to learn more about environmental (82%), ‒ Provision of facilities such as toilets, drinking water, Facilities along the trail to have camping along the trail, or that having and Aboriginal cultural heritage values The (74%).summary break-down to the right outlines key Winter information campsites would sessions need to be and theregulated. closely online workshop. This Experiences: access to car parking and seating along the trail is When asked the ways to share stories messages with the that were reported during the process. feedback related to facilities alongalong thethe trail and important; Survey “Walk and be in solitude. Be able to camp This theme attempts to group community, signage all activities and(79%) was the most popular Participants features of it,with way, or nearby sharing information, hike in only campsites andand sharing the trail. drive response, followed by information boards (63%) and could also contact the Parks Victoria Survey respondents ‒ Managing gave use along thefeedback about the trail is needed so that it encoura in campsites.” – survey respondent possible visitor experiences in downloadablethe park, from guidedwalking walks (54%). There engagement was some team through email or telephone to have facilities they think are important along the trail. As For a full copy of the consultation report, please visit does not feel busy, and manages different user most fre to para gliding birdwatching to photographing. support for other ways of sharing information such a say. Several organizations and some individuals made shown in Figure 8, over three quarters of Ideas mentioned by fewer than five per cent of www.engage.vic.gov.au/yallock-bulluk. as website information (46%), interactive apps groups; along th respondents are not included in the above (36%). There was relatively low supportsubmissions for to inform the AIP. participants chose toilets as important along the trail. respond Insummary developing the AIP,ofthese for efficiency comments, reporting. The ideas ideas and Environment: educational play areas (17%) and guided walks ‒ Thefacilities Other trails should be fit-for that were highlypurpose regarded trails and included concerns raised are arealsovaluable often coveredandininform design directions and the remainder (22%). long as This theme consolidates all issues and opportunities functional access year-round to drinking withcar water and good drainage, parking. Thereand was of the report, and include: safety, provision the recommendations of further testing and on-site of Young people were also asked about what they are walking connections to towns; and appetite for seating, picnic tables, campsites and Some re facilities, beach access, mountain biking, studies. related to the living, and material eco systems, this is access for all abilities and connections to interested in learning about along the trail. As with universal ‒ There access should be(almost good one third of respondents information and signs and man nearby towns. all flora and fauna, geology andthecoastal landscapes. broader survey, the environment (called ‘nature’ trail cou in the youth survey) ranked highest (61%), followed valued these facilities). provided along the trail by beaches and historic heritage. What features are important in a trail? What values are you most interested in learning about in this area? What facilities are most needed “Tracks 80% 90% 82% in the park? Hiking in 69% 76% many pe 70% 68% 80% 80% 64% 74% degrade 70% 70% 60% 63% 60% 54% “I cur 62% 49% 50% 60% 50% 50% 46% 48% 37% 46% 50% 40% 31% 31% 32% 20% 24% 50% 30% 40% 38% Some re 40% 20% 11% (i.e. allo 40% 30% 27% 10% enabling 30% 0% help enc 20% 15% 20% “Winter hiking a 10% 10% - survey 4% 0% 0% other access to interpretive points of solitude places to sit loop walks beach lookouts clear shelter information interest access directional other post-colonial archaeological geological palaeontological Aboriginal environmental inco heritage (dinosaurs and cultural heritage signage fossils) cyc Figure 5: survey respondent views on important features on a trail (n=794) Figure 10: Survey responses on which values participants are interested in learning more about (n=794) 20 Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park Access and Infrastructure Plan 12 Victoria's Great Outdoors Figure 8: survey responses regarding facilities along the trail Overnig
Culture & Experiences Environment Access and Operations & heritage movement management ‒ There is interest to learn about the ‒ There is interest in trails for hiking ‒ There is interest to learn more ‒ There is a desire for trail access to Aboriginal cultural heritage of the and walking, as well as some other about environmental values along beaches, and trails that go along area through storytelling along the recreational uses. the trail. them. – Provision of facilities such as trail. ‒ The trail should showcase the ‒ There was strong aspiration for the ‒ Day walks are the preferred toilets, drinking water, access to ‒ Protecting places of cultural natural beauty of the area and trail to provide opportunities to experience for the trail. car parking and seating along the significance along and near the trail provide the opportunity for good appreciate and enjoy nature and ‒ Connecting in to local townships is trail is important. is considered important. lookouts with diverse views. views. considered important, particularly – Maintaining the trail through ‒ Working together with Bunurong is ‒ Loops walks that finish where they ‒ Environmental values such as for walkers and cyclists. winter months, and designing a priority. start and that connect well to local nesting areas for birds, sensitive ‒ There should be good information for wet conditions was a towns are desired. dunes and vegetation need to be and signs provided along the trail. common treatment suggested ‒ Clear signage, lookouts and beach considered and protected. to encourage all-seasons access ‒ The use of the trail needs to be access were considered the most along the trail. managed so that it does not feel important features of the trail. busy, and manages different user – There was a strong desire for ‒ Signage is considered important. groups. engagement and being kept It should help people find the way, informed as the plans progress. and also give information about the environment, cultural heritage and paleontological history. ‒ There is some appetite for camping, though consideration of existing offering and environmental values should be given. “Bush, spots to sit watch the “I love the natural environment “preserving as much “Well signed, accessed walking “Short loop walks to interesting ocean, birds or just immerse and hope this will not develop or environmental diversity as paths. Facts and points of sites would be helpful with oneself if the beauty of nature.” – interfere with the natural beauty possible. Information for visitors interest. A walk is always better information boards. Also, access survey response to ‘what would of the region...Creating some of the importance of protecting with information and history of paths to the beach where you like to see and do on the trail? boardwalks to reduce damage to the fragile costal environment.” the area passing through.” appropriate. Access to toilet different parts of walking tracks facilities are important too.” to create less walker impact.” Above in speach bubble: survey response to ‘what would you like to see and do on the trail?’ Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park Access and Infrastructure Plan 21
STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT Program and Engagement The AIP is being delivered through a four stage process as outlined below. Of these, stages 1 - 3 are forming the scope of this report. Early Stages Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3 Stage 4 2019 JUNE - August 2020 SEPTEMBER 20 - MAY 2021 MAY - AUGUST 2021 LATE 2021 Engagement ‒ The engagement was conducted ‒ Online survey with 794 participants ‒ Feedback on Draft YBAIP ‒ Launch of final YBAIP ‒ Progress and deliver final YBAIP in June and July of 2019 and ‒ Three online community included: information sessions with 58 – A roundtable event participants – Five open house sessions ‒ Online workshop with 30 – Meetings with partners and participants stakeholders. ‒ Youth Survey with 98 participants ‒ School workshop with six participants Design/ Delivery ‒ Site analysis ‒ Strategies ‒ Concept development ‒ Construction documentation ‒ Constraints and opportunities ‒ Design concepts ‒ Detail design development ‒ Construction tender ‒ Draft concepts ‒ Staging and implementation ‒ Construction 22 Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park Access and Infrastructure Plan
Walkers and cyclists sharing the rail trail. Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park Access and Infrastructure Plan 23
24 Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park Access and Infrastructure Plan
CHAPTER 2 DESIGN STRATEGIES A wide range of background reports including geospatial references has been reviewed as part of the site and project understanding to assess issues and opportunities related to site processes and facts such as vehicular movement and access around the area, environmental and cultural values, geomorphological and hydraulic influences, the wider planning and economic context in which the trail will develop. The following presents a graphic summary of the key findings that will inform the further trail design. Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park Access and Infrastructure Plan 25
Experience a trail journey through the layers of time, discovering imprints of life vanished 100 million years ago, nurturing soul and body with local produce and a relaxed local lifestyle, whilst learning about the industrial past, modern pastimes, and deep connections to a Country born by sea and water. 26 Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park Access and Infrastructure Plan
Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park Access and Infrastructure Plan 27
CARING FOR COUNTRY CULTURE AND HERITAGE Aboriginal Values- Tangible Aboriginal Values- Intangible European The YBMCP features a large number of known The landscape of the YBMCP is also overlayed with Key Sites The colonisation of the Bass Coast by Europeans and Aboriginal heritage sites containing stone artefact a rich tapestry of intangible indigenous themes and other cultures over the past 200 years has dramatically Key sites have been identified spatially within the park scatters, shell middens and Aboriginal Ancestral stories. This project seeks to express this knowledge to altered the endemic natural landscape. Routes by that allow for concrete interpretation of narratives Remains [burials]. The BLCAC has expressed its desire the broader community through the design expression explorers and surveyors are marked along roads and or cultural values that are embedded within the to manage these sites in collaboration with Parks of trail infrastructure and interpretation. highways. Shipwrecks along the coast tell the story of landscape. Victoria. Working alongside the BLCAC, the following narratives dramatic sea-faring along the stormy coast. The YBAIP may deliver on a few of these opportunities Through work undertaken during the first project have been highlighted as significant to the area. But most visible are the remnants of a short but however, ongoing projects can further develop a stage, known sites have been mapped and the possible important phase of coal mining that occurred between relationship of contemporary expression of Aboriginal impact of works undertaken through the YBAIP 1909 and 1968. values and highlight the significance of specific sites identified. Mining was undertaken since the first discovery of coal Possible design responses have been identified where Trailhead and landscapes. on the Bass Coast in Wonthaggi, Kilcunda, San Remo trail or park facilities are in close vicinity to these sites. A Welcome to Country experience. Griffith Point and Cape Paterson. The State Coal Mine operates A gateway and threshold can be created that can today as a museum managed by Parks Victoria. The 1. Through detailed site surveys, confirm existing reference a smoking ceremony and its effect to create At the western tip of the San Remo foreshore the West Area, along its Haulage Line and Mullock Heap known sites of cultural sensitivity and identify a transitional experience guiding from one reality or relationship between mainland and Phillip Island further west, offers land that strategically can connect additional areas of sensitive impacted by project. realm to another. When traversing a trailhead, the park and the dominant Cape Woolamai becomes highly Wonthaggi to the coast, via the opportunity of 2. Develop Cultural Heritage Management Plan user should be made aware and be sensitive to being legible where the fast flushing tides can be a interpreting, displaying and highlighting the industrial, [CHMP]. immersed in a place of significance. dramatic experience to observe. The island has been and topographic features that were left behind once 3. Minimise impact on sites in close proximity to the an important place to the Bunurong as a place for the mines closed. trail through design strategies including. ceremonies and food collection. As a by-product of the mining activities, the Powlett – Elevate trail via boardwalks. Trail Node River railway line was established in 1910, connecting Wonthaggi – Identify sensitive sites through information and Places along the journey. Wonthaggi with Nyora. The trestle bridge over Bourne interpretation. The trail nodes are deisgned to stop, sit down and The word ‘Wonthaggi’ translates into ‘home’ and Creek in Kilcunda highlights the scenic location of this become both open to the surrounds, and reflective of references the significance of the place as a ceremonial line, which was closed in 1978 and converted to a – Where possible, ensure trail alignment avoids the experience. These places enable a deeper dialogue meeting ground for the Bunurong and neighbouring bridging link in the Bass Coast Rail Trail. sensitive sites [Micro siting of works]. with oneself, or within groups. They can reference the clans. idea of ‘yarning circles’, or traditional places of rest, The YBAIP promotes the interpretation of European where stories were told and connection to Country Eagles Nest cultural heritage through design references at key lived through story telling. Eagles Nest refers very directly to Bunjil, the creator, sites and the conversion of the West Area into a who inhabited this place because of its great vistas post industrial parkland offering access to history, along the coast, both west towards Cape Woolamai sightseeing, art and the possible cultural activities. and east towards the Wilsons Promontory. A future opportunity for the trail would be the development of a holistic interpretation strategy that curates access to information along the whole coast in coordination with stakeholders. 28 Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park Access and Infrastructure Plan
San Remo Mitchell Coal The map to the right shows the key areas of cultural Mine Kilcunda Powlett River interest. Mouth These include publicly known Aboriginal cultural sites. Further, the labeled ‘key sites’ of Foots Lookout, Wonthaggi West Area Mining Wonthaggi West Area and Eagles Nest are shown. European heritage sites have been identified where mining activities are still visible in the landscape, such Wonthaggi Central as the Kilcunda West area, Wonthaggi Mullock Heap Area Mining and the West Area, as well as the State Coal Mine in close vicinity to the project area. Shipwrecks such as the Artisan and the Amazon are still visible [at times] on the beach and rock shelf. It is noted that the area presents a plethora of Aboriginal Cultural sites such as middens [living grounds], burial sites and other sites of significance. The database of these sites is constantly updated. Projects such as the YBAIP will require further archaeological investigation to ensure that it will not interfere with or damage additional sites that are unknown to date. The YBAIP is engaging with the Bunurong Land Amazon Shipwreck Council Aboriginal Corporation to curate possible access to sites of cultural significance to enrich the Legend: coastal experience through stories, information and interpretation. YBMCP extents Aboriginal heritage key Site [cultural value] Eagles Nest Mining heritage site Shipwreck site Opportunity for dinosaur interpretation Artisan n shipwreck 1 5 1 5km Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park Access and Infrastructure Plan 29
THE STRATA OF TIME Access to Experience The Bass Coast and its new Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park are significant landscapes on many levels. 1 Archaeological finds prove human occupation for many thousands of years supported by the many registered sites of middens, stone artefacts, burial sites and known stories. Fertile soils are supporting a healthy agriculture and a 3 growing number of permanent and holiday residents within an environment that is rich in diverse ecologies and habitats. The underlying bedrock itself is famous and of national 6 significance for its important fossil content. In addition, 7 the bedrock has supported an important period of Victoria’s own production of coal. 2 By way of providing physical access to places that are 4 offering insight into the many stories and histories of the place, the trail enables a satisfying process of learning and engaging. Next to the sheer physical access to sites of significance in regards to their natural, cultural, or geological values 5 they display, the project can create the background for information, interpretation and education opportunities. The design approach to the trail and the supporting visitor experience infrastructure is to provide a range of channels for visitors to interpret and engage in the coast and its many stories. Multiple media may be utilised to display the information, such as signage, digital media, art or sculptural elements, and temporary installations such as events, exhibitions and festivals. 1 The Natural Strata - coastal and marine flora and fauna of the Bass Coast The YBAIP provides the foundation for information 2 The Colonial Strata - coastal and maritime European stories and histories and interpretation strategies to improve access to 3 The Deep Time Strata - ancient connections to Country knowledge, stories and narratives that make this 4 The Coal Seam - geology and industry landscape unique. 5 The Fossil Strata - traces of ancient life forms An example of how these layers of time can engage 6 The Sea Strata - the soft dynamics with hard impacts with the park and its infrastructure, is the ‘Dinosaur 7 The Gondwana Strata - tectonics that shaped a landscape Trail’ initiative by Bass Coast Shire Council. 30 Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park Access and Infrastructure Plan
Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park Access and Infrastructure Plan 31
CARING FOR COUNTRY ENVIRONMENT The YBMCP covers a diverse region of ecosystems and In order to protect and enhance these fragile Interpretation and Education Ecological Vegetation Classifications (EVCs), some of environments, it is proposed that a range of actions are these are classified as endangered or vulnerable, such implemented in the trail design and construction. They Broadening understanding of the sensitive ecologies as Coast Banksia Woodland, Coastal Tussock Grassland are: of the park helps to grow appreciation for the or the Swamp Scrub. regional landscape and its coast as one integrated The park is home to some endangered animals, such ‒ Complete targeted site surveys to determine the environmental system. Educating the public about it as the Hooded Plover, the Swamp Antechinus and the presence and condition of native vegetation, and can help explain the coast’s significance and enable Southern Brown Bandicoot to just name a few of the to assess suitable habitats for endangered flora and visitors to engage with the park’s values. land based fauna present. fauna; The YBAIP can support park, cultural and There are multiple waterways that release large water ‒ Where possible, utilise existing trails and goat tracks, environmental awareness through information and catchments into the ocean, and thus potentially reducing the need to cut new trails; signage across the park. harming through the carriage of pollutants to the ‒ Minimise the impact on environmentally sensitive Wetlands near Powlett River marine and coastal ecosystems. sites and habitats through the use of micro siting; Many of the ecosystems in the park are established on ‒ Ensure minimum trail widths are designed to reduce soft sand which is prone to erosion once vegetation the impact on surrounding vegetation; cover is removed and wind and water can access the ‒ Elevate sections of trail over sensitive flora, fauna exposed and vulnerable soft sand. and water systems using boardwalks; and Expansive wetland systems showcase a vast variety of migratory birds that depend on feeding and nesting ‒ Environmental planting to disturbed areas. grounds. Protecting the waterways The YBAIP proposes to modify the existing trail Even though most of the park is at the downstream network to promote better access to the features and end of waterways, the YBAIP can still contribute attractions of the park. Existing tracks may be stabilised to the quality of any run-off from its hard surfaces to minimise erosion, other tracks may be widened to and minimise the carriage of sediments in run-off, Coastal Tussock Grassland, allow for better amenity for park users. often caused through poor trail design, steep and Kilcunda The plan carefully balances benefits for park users uncontrolled drainage channels and through the cause versus impact on environmental values in the park to of erosion by depleted vegetation. create a visitor experience that heightens the value of The plan initiatives propose to: the landscape and improves it. ‒ Filter and cleanse all surface run-off from upgraded car parks; ‒ Manage velocities of run-off through the detailed design of water channels; ‒ Install water detention initiatives where possible; ‒ Minimise impact on waterways and drainage flows by elevating tracks where required. Banksia Woodland 32 Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park Access and Infrastructure Plan
Trails and Ecologies The YBMCP is comprised of a wide variety of diverse ecosystems, some of which are classified as vulnerable or endangered. The park provides habitat to many rare animal species. The map to the right highlights some of the sensitive ecosystems. The YBAIP will upgrade some existing tracks and 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 cut very short sections of new tracks to improve on access to attractions in the park. Trail design has been undertaken to minimise impact on the ecosystems. 9 10 11 Wetland and dune Legend boardwalk Hooded Plover YBMCP extents Orchid Areas of ecological sensitivity Southern Brown Revegetation Bandicoot opportunities Swamp Antechinus Existing trail Growling Grass Frog no change Existing trail Strzelecki Gum using roads River Swamp Beach walking 12 13 Reopen track to Wallaby Grass Cutlers Beach West 8 Upgrades to existing trail Dwarf Galaxias surface and width Improve dune Improve all beach Harmers Haven trails in Cape New trail access firebreak trail Paterson 900mm wide New trail 1 5km 1800mm wide Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park Access and Infrastructure Plan 33
UNDERSTANDING COASTAL AND MARINE PROCESSES The landscape of the Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park is diverse in typologies, ranging from high cliff There are several options to access information on water levels: Coastal Erosion tops of elevated sedimentary rock to elevated ancient Erosion of sandy coastlines is linked to sea levels and sand dunes that are cut by rivers and waterways and ‒ Walkers are asked to self inform using weather apps increased storm surges. long sandy beaches with some low rock shelves. The or data from relevant websites; Along the YBMCP coastline, in particular the beaches relentless energy of the Southern Ocean constantly ‒ A specific app for mobile phones may be developed of Kilcunda and Inverloch have a record of increased pulses against all these land forms and continues to as part of the overall YBMCP experience. The app coastal erosion. change these, either through slow and almost invisible could provide access to weather and tidal data. This Various engineering solutions are available to manage processes but also often in dramatic and abrupt app potentially can extend to recommend walking the destructive nature of sea surges, some of these are changes, expressed through cliff collapses and land times and become a tool to design an appropriate already applied along the Inverloch beach and include slides and beach and dune erosion. experience; sand bags and rock armour. A different force that informs and alters the landscape ‒ A dynamic onsite warning system that could provide In addition, beach-replenishment, which describes the Sea Cave at The Arches, is the water that flows down rivers and waterways. A digital information directly on beaches [co-located activity of recharging beaches by moving sand, may be Kilcunda pluvial flood event can be very visible in the riparian with beach nodes for example] that informs on feasible to mitigate or delay the destructive impact on corridor of the Powlett River, where downstreaming accessibility. assets. rainwater builds up over time and creates vast The Inverloch Regional and Strategic Partnership is The sea water level is likely to increase over time and temporary wetlands, supporting a rich diversity of currently undertaking a Coastal Hazard Assessment access to beach walking may decrease accordingly. The ecologies. Parks Victoria is actively managing this which may inform and recommend best responses to impact of sea level on access to beaches will need to ecosystem by carefully coordinating the opening of the the risk of beach and coastal erosion. be monitored. river mouth and releasing the freshwater build up. In order to maximise the possible visitor experience by Cliff and Ground Stability bringing visitors as close to the water edge as possible, the YBAIP will need to consider the risks caused by the Inundation The relatively soft structure of the various sedimentary rock material that make up the elevated sections of natural processes and understand impacts on locations Pluvial flooding occurs when rain events over upstream coastline is prone to erosion processes that are caused of lookout structures, pathways and other assets. catchments increase the volume of stormwater by wind and sea water impact. Sea caves, such as the Typical sandy beach near flushing down the waterways. These pluvial events collapsed cave at Punchbowl and the existing caves Harmers Haven can sometimes occur relatively abruptly. The flood further east at the Caves site, are expressions of this Sea Level and Tidal Events plain of the Powlett river is already being shaped and influenced by water building up behind the sandbank force. Tidal fluctuation with sea level changes between high When locating viewing platforms close to cliffs, the that most of the time closes the river mouth. Any and low tides ranging around 3m at times result in siting will need to consider the likelihood of cliff structural elements that are placed into the flood zone sections of beach being inaccessible at high tides. collapse. Geotechnical analysis of key locations of waterways need to be designed so that they are less These locations are mostly around Harmers Haven. identified through this stage of the YBAIP will help impacted by flood waters. The boardwalks and viewing to place viewing structures as close to the optimum platforms proposed for the Wetland Walk between Between non-passable sections of beach at high tides, experience as possible, yet at maximum safety for the Kilcunda and Powlett River will need to be elevated hikers could potentially be trapped. To mitigate this risk visitor. well above the maximum anticipated water level or, it is important that all hikers choosing to walk along A special feature of the rock strata of the coast is the alternatively, when levels are low to minimise visual beaches have easy access to tidal charts and plan their presence of coal and the resulting locations of mine impact of these structures, a certain timeframe of hiking accordingly. shafts to harvest the coal. These mine shafts bear the inundation of these structures in peak flood events will risk of collapsing and their locations and stability will need to be factored into the experience. need to be assessed in more detail. Cliff face near Eagles Nest 34 Yallock-Bulluk Marine and Coastal Park Access and Infrastructure Plan
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