Community invited to discuss final link in Bellarine Peninsula Coastal Trail

THE future development in the “green wedge” between Point Lonsdale and Ocean Grove will be the focus of a public forum next month.

Organised by the Ocean Grove Community Association and Point Lonsdale Civic Association, along with supporting partners, the Southern Bellarine Coastal Forum aims to discuss the opportunities and risks of a bicycle and footpath link – nominally called the Southern Bellarine Coastal Trail – between the two townships, while protecting the natural environment of this important area.

The forum will include presentations from guest speakers on a range of topics, including “The Significance of the Southern Bellarine to First Nation Culture” by Corrina Eccles from the Wathaurung Aboriginal Corporation, and “A Reflection on the History of the Southern Bellarine Coast” by Noel Emselle and John Wynn.

Associate Professor David Kennedy from Melbourne University will also speak about “Beach and Sand Dune Geology and Vulnerability” and Bike Safe Geelong/Surfcoast President Bob Jordan on “Cycling Safety on the Bellarine”.

A total of 11 different topics will be covered during the full day forum, which will them be followed by a participatory workshop of short focus sessions run in order to develop a vision statement and list of opportunities and risks.

The forum will provide current information on the opportunities and obstacles to creating the final link in the Bellarine Peninsula Coastal Trail.

Following the forum, the Ocean Grove Community Association will produce a summary document summarising the key issues, stating the draft Vision Statement, listing the opportunities and risks, and outlining the “next steps”.

Partners in the event include Ocean Grove Community Association, Point Lonsdale Civic Association, Borough of Queenscliffe, Bellarine Catchment Network, Barwon Coast, Rotary Club of Ocean Grove, Lions Club of Ocean Grove Barwon Heads, City of Greater Geelong Connected Communities Grant Funding, Ocean Grove Business Association, and Driftwood Café.

The forum will take place at Shell Road Pavilion in Ocean Grove on June 21.

There is no charge to participate, and lunch and refreshments will be provided.

Registration is at 9.30am for a 10am start, and the event will finish at 4.30pm.

To attend, head to eventbrite.com.au/e/southernbellarine- coastal-forum-tickets-61857947787.