Committee for Lorne – A word from the Chairman

The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) is currently in the process of assessing the value, benefits and options for a coastal and/or cycling trail between Fairhaven and Skenes Creek.

The Study is focussing on the 60 kilometres of coastline between Fairhaven and Skenes Creek and will consider opportunities and challenges associated with then trail development, identify a feasible route, prepare concept designs, assess social, economic and environmental benefits of a trail and estimate construction costs.

It will investigate how the sections of the trail could connect with existing and already planned trails to provide a network of coastal walks from Torquay to Apollo Bay. DELWP have been chasing community feedback to inform the study through the community consultation process over the months of June and July. The first phase of June consultation was completed with approximately 200 survey submission having been received to date.

I urge all that have an interest, or otherwise, in this exciting project to be part of the consultation process in the time lines that are planned. So far, sessions have been held in Melbourne, Wye River, Lorne and Apollo Bay with more to follow. The specialist trail designers that have been engaged have reviewed this initial feedback and are using this to help develop possible route options for the proposed new coastal trail.

Since the first round of discussions in June, World Trail have reviewed community and stakeholder feedback on issues, opportunities and vision; walked key sections of the study area; and considered environmental and technical data to determine possible route options. These options for the new trail are now being developed, for discussions and on-line. You will be able to view draft plans, discuss and provide feedback on possible route options at the Community session at Lorne’s Community House on July 20 from 9am to 11am.

If you are unable to attend this session, head to https://engage.vic.gov.au/trail-study to view the plans and add your comments from July 18. This is a super important process and we must realise that to be heard we must provide the feedback in the forums that are provided. Don’t let it be like the Point Grey Precinct where some have been vocal after the consultation process as opposed to be being involved in the mechanisms that have laid the foundations for the endorsed master plan.

A continuing reminder that our next community luncheon is scheduled for the Friday before the AFL Grand Final. We would love you to spread the word and go out of your way to invite others that may attend for the first time, so put the date in your diary – September 27.

Ian Stewart
Chairman – Committee for Lorne