Locals impressed with Bellarine Basin rehab plans

BELLARINE community members have given their support for a plan to rehabilitate the Bellarine Basin, as Barwon Water intends to open the site to the public next year.

The water authority is transforming the site, at the corner of Grubb and Swan Bay roads, into a 30-hectare environmental and public open space.

The new project is called Murrk Ngubitj Yarram Yaluk – which translates to “headwaters of continuous flowing river” in Wadawurrung language.

Earlier this year, Barwon Water opened a third round of community consultation on a draft concept plan that included walking trails, conservation areas and landscape planning.

It has developed the plan alongside an advisory group that included Wadawurrung Traditional Owners, Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA, formerly DELWP) Corangamite Catchment Management Authority, and the City of Greater Geelong.

Barwon Water’s consultation found that 83 per cent of respondents were supportive of the plan (either very satisfied or satisfied), with just 5 per cent opposed.

Environmental opportunities was the most common theme of support, with recreation opportunities and design of space also popular with respondents.

“Overall the feedback captured from survey respondents was highly positive,” the report stated.

“Respondents were both satisfied with the draft plans and supportive of the environmental and cultural education centre.”

Habitat restoration for native animals, public access to the natural space and its education opportunities were identified as highlights of the draft plan from supportive commenters.

Negative comments towards the draft plan said the site should have more space for active recreation, such as play equipment, cycling and concerts, and enhanced wildlife corridors linking other Bellarine habitats.

The vast majority of the survey’s 90 respondents were Bellarine residents, including 32 per cent form Ocean Grove and 27 per cent from the Wallington, Drysdale and Curlewis post code.

Barwon Water says it will revise its draft concept plan based on the feedback received, then prepare a project plan for the site, which will include detail about timelines and budget.

Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation has received close to $450,000 in state government funding to improve the local environment in line with cultural values.

The site’s transformation will happen progressively over several years.

The new park is set to open to the public in late 2024.

In the meantime, it is open at set times to the Bellarine Catchment Network’s Friends of Murrk Ngubitj Yarram Yaluk group, which includes local community members assisting with site restoration.

More information is available at Barwon Water’s project page: https://www.yoursay.barwonwater.vic.gov.au/bellarine-basin