Feedback sought on the future of Anglesea Health

COMMUNITY feedback is sought on the future recreational use of Anglesea Heath following its transfer into the Great Otway National Park, with open house sessions to begin from next week.

At the sessions, Parks Victoria will discuss proposals for sustainable recreational activities that are suitable for the important environmental and cultural values of the national park.

Particular feedback is sought on the type, location and extent of recreational activities in the park; its network of roads; and potential infrastructure to support suitable activities not currently provided for, such as bushwalking and mountain biking.

Parks Victoria staff will also share planned conservation projects and works in the park, including pest plant control, cinnamon fungus mapping, and the rehabilitation and revegetation of illegal tracks.

The 6,510-hectare area is a unique and fragile heathland environment that provides stunning wildflower displays every spring.

It is a much-loved community asset and a significant environmental area, with about onequarter of Victoria’s plant species found there.

Orchids are an outstanding feature, with more than 100 species present, making it one of the most abundant sites in Australia. There are also 30 species of mammals and more than 100 species of native birds that call the heathlands home.

Anglesea Heath was incorporated into the Great Otway National Park in December 2017, following early release of the land by Alcoa. The government has provided $2.3 million towards the establishment of the new section of national park.

The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning recently released the Anglesea Futures Land Use Framework, following community consultation. The framework developed will guide detailed planning for this project.

“Near to town and home to many important plants and animals, the Anglesea Heath area means a lot to the local community,” Parks Victoria area chief ranger Michelle Anstee said.

“We’re keen to hear people’s views on how we protect this new section of national park and make it an enjoyable place to visit – now and in the future.”

Open house sessions will be held at the Anglesea Hall in McMillan Street on January 16 from 5-7.30pm and February 2 from 11am-1.30pm.