Council looking for feedback on Bells Beach management

THE Surf Coast Shire is seeking further public feedback this month about the management of Bells Beach.

The consultation is part of the council’s Bells Beach Surfing Recreation Reserve Coastal and Marine Management Plan 2015-2025.

Cr David Bell said past community engagements had underlined the importance of the area.

“Bells means so much to so many people for varying reasons.

“The findings from the public consultation emphasised the importance of Bells, with 63 per cent of respondents visiting the reserve at least once a fortnight.”

The Bells Beach Committee received more than 500 survey responses when it held a community consultation period in 2018.

The committee responded to the feedback by updating the plan by enhancing the relationship with Wadawurrung Traditional Owners, proposing the inclusion of an elevated pathway overlooking Winkipop, upgrading the pathway and picnic area at the lower Bells car park, and adding gross pollutant traps in the Winkipop and lower Hammerhead car parks.

Users of the reserve can learn more about the plan at the “van chats” at the reserve on September 6 and 7 between 9am and noon, and enjoy a complimentary coffee.

People can also view the plan and give their feedback at surfcoast.vic.gov.au/yoursay/Bells before September 26.

The council will then provide the Victorian Environment Minister with a final updated plan for approval.