Pop-up sessions to gather feedback on Bells management

THE Community has been invited to contribute to an update of the Bells Beach Recreation Reserve Coastal Management Plan 2015-25 (CMP) within its guiding principles and core values.

The “Bells Pop Up” engagement period starting on Sunday July 29 will include a community survey, stationing of a coffee “chat van” in the Bells Winki top car park, and an Indigenous cultural walking tour led by Wadawurrung traditional owner Corrina Eccles on August 4.

Surf Coast Shire mayor David Bell welcomed the update and said users of Bells Beach should have their say.

“Council is required to update the CMP for ministerial approval every three years.

“It is important to emphasise that there are no proposed changes to the plan’s vision, guiding principles, core values or ongoing management approach.

“The Bells Pop Up is about recognising the Wadawurrung people’s long association with the reserve, including the interconnections between land, people and diversity, as well as recognising unique surfing heritage, the importance of surfing, and continuing to cater for surfing and surfing events including the Rip Curl Pro.”

A survey to be available during the Bells Pop Up period and online will seek feedback on areas including:

• User experiences at the reserve
• Materials preferred for required upgrading of paths, stairs and lookouts
• Possible installation of a raised timber pathway to replace a section of the concrete path to Winkipop, similar to a temporary structure used during the 2018 Rip Curl Pro
• Long-term future of the toilet block in the reserve’s lower car park, and
• Treatment of steep areas in the reserve’s lower car park.

Bells Beach Committee chair Jane Currie encouraged people to participate in the Bells Pop Up.

“Everyone who uses the reserve should get involved in the upcoming consultation, whether you run, cycle, walk or surf at Bells Beach,” she said.

To complete the online survey, head to surfcoastconversations.com.au from July 29.