Stage two complete for Portarlington reserve

THE CITY of Greater Geelong council has completed Stage 2 of the Portarlington Recreation Reserve (PRR) 10-year masterplan, after six weeks of community consultation running April-June.

The city sought feedback from the community and stakeholders for a new master plan (set to replace the 2011 version) addressing the increased pressure on local infrastructure due to Bellarine’s booming population.

The city said consultants will now review feedback, along with existing analysis of issues and opportunities, to contribute to the draft plan – scheduled to be developed over the coming months.

It is expected the draft will be released after council elections for further community feedback.

An interactive map covering the 38 hectares gave contributors the opportunity to add pins to identify ‘the things they do, the things they love and the things they’d like to see improved’.

The city implored local residents, sporting clubs, and regular visitors to provide information about key amenities, access, and future event needs or opportunities relating to the PRR.

There were 76 contribution for this activity with community members calling out for areas filled with Kikuyu grass to be replaced with native plants.

Pins highlighted cultural and environmental values, landscape and amenities, sporting infrastructure requirements, trail and access points and events and function spaces.

Other suggestions included space for a community garden, wetlands, upgrades to public toilets, ensuring protection for the native habitat and a community hub.

A poll which asked contributors “What do you value most about the reserve?” and received 191 votes, with environment and landscape amenity coming in first at 33 per cent (61 votes).

Sporting ovals and main pavilions receiving 29 per cent (56 votes) followed by passive use of the reserve, 14 per cent (26 votes); attending events, 13 per cent (24 votes); netball courts and pavilion, 10 per cent (19 votes); the guides hall and using the playground came in at one per cent each with (2 votes) and (1 vote) respectively.

The recreation reserve plays an important part in the lives of locals and visitors and is home to the Portarlington Sports Club, Portarlington Fire Brigade and the Bellarine Agricultural Show.

Geelong mayor Stephanie Asher said she was excited to see the reserve evolve with the community at its forefront.

“The township of Portarlington is quite different to how it looked nine years ago, which is why it makes sense to reset and to reflect the community’s current and future.

“We’re eager to hear what’s important to local residents, sports clubs’ members and visitors alike, how they currently use the reserve and their ‘clever and creative’ ideas to ensure its
vibrant future.”

Following engagement, issues and opportunities will be developed and released in a draft plan for further community feedback.

Local community groups have advocated for the review with support and funding for the project provided by the state government.

If you would like more information, head to geelongaustralia.com.au or phone 5272 5272.