Barwon Coast takes on management of reserve

BARWON Coast has formally taken on management of the Black Rock foreshore Crown land reserve, following approval from the Victorian Minister for Environment.

This land transfer, which came into effect at the start of this month, was a joint decision by Barwon Coast and Barwon Water and is part of a formal, legal process led by the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA).

The reserve includes about 3km of coastline between Blue Rocks and Bancoora Beach.

It is an area of significant environmental and Cultural value, and neighbours land Barwon Coast already manages.

In a statement on its website, Barwon Coast says it has been working closely with Barwon Water to ensure a smooth transition and a shared commitment to protecting a sensitive stretch of Victoria’s coast.

While Barwon Coast will now manage the reserve, Barwon Water will continue to operate the neighbouring Black Rock Water Reclamation Plant.

Barwon Water will lease back the parts of the reserve it requires for infrastructure and operational purposes.

There are no immediate changes to how the public can get access to or use the foreshore, with Barwon Coast saying the focus is on continuing care, not restricting access.

The consultation process included community engagement about the future use of this land.