Community group applies microscope to Karaaf future

A NEW community reference group will help guide future decisions surrounding the Karaaf Wetlands.

The Surf Coast Shire has formed a Karaaf Wetlands Community Reference Group (KCRG) of interested residents that it says will draw on local expertise and passion to manage the area.

The group’s first priorities include developing stormwater diversion options and improving stormwater quality and monitoring in the existing constructed wetland system.

The 11-member panel has met with stormwater management consultants Design Flow in recent month, who will test feasibility of preferred options.

The shire said planning is also underway for works such as weed removal at the Esplanade constructed wetland to improve water quality, while remediation for the Zeally Sands wetland will start next year after migratory bird season.

Reference group chair Jeff Rigby said volunteers looked forward to continuing their work with the shire and other stakeholders.

“Each of us has an opportunity and is expected to act in the best interests of the community by sharing our local knowledge with council, and offering well-considered views and advice to inform plans and projects that aim to address adverse impacts to the ecological health of the wetlands with increased stormwater from urban expansion in north Torquay,” he said.

“The future of the Karaaf Wetlands is dependent on positive and proactive action that is founded on sound science and engineering, the goodwill of all stakeholders involved and a committed and unified approach by all,” Mr Rigby said.

Shire mayor Liz Pattison said the reference group would use “the different skillsets and passion” in the community.

“We know that stormwater systems are complex, solutions can be expensive and we want to get it right, so the more information we have the better. We must make sure any diversion or improvement works are carefully considered to ensure there aren’t any unintended impacts.

The health of Karaaf Wetlands has been brough into sharp focus in recent years, with vegetation dieback believed to be the result of runoff from nearby housing estates causing dilution of the saltwater environment.