Community
13 November, 2024
Land transfers continue
THE Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority continues to take over management of land across the coast.
Acting director of environment and coastal operations Leia Howe said as of November 1, the Authority had officially taken on the management responsibility for the Bay of Islands Coastal Park.
“It’s one of several key local land parcels that have transferred to the Authority from Parks Victoria.
“Port Campbell National Park was transferred on August 1, 2024, with the Marine National Parks, Sanctuaries, and parts of the Great Otway National Park still to follow.”
Ms Howe said the milestone aligns with “our purpose to protect, conserve, enhance and manage” public land along the Great Ocean Road.
“We have been working closely with Parks Victoria to ensure a smooth transition for Bay of Islands Coastal Park,” she said.
“The community will still see Parks Victoria staff on the ground, continuing to monitor and care for the land.
“Existing protections and management under the National Parks Act remain unchained, and we’ll follow the current National Park Management Plan to keep our management and practices consistent.
“We’ll work with Traditional Owners to respect the cultural values and aspirations of the land and waters.”
Friday was also a special day, with the West Zone Coastal Reserves Team beginning direct land management of public foreshore reserves in Peterborough, according to Ms Howe.
“Our foreshore rangers Sam Groen and Erin Donnellan, along with acting costal operations coordinator central and west Nick John, are actively managing land in Peterborough, Princetown and Port Campbell,” she said.
“This is a significant step towards managing the entire Great Ocean Road coast and parks area as one living and integrated natural entity so it can be enjoyed now and for future generations to come.
“We wish the team well in their roles.”
Ms Howe thanked the Corangamite and Moyne shires for their “work and knowledge”.
She said additional land parcels were expected to transfer to the Authority on December 1 following the completion of works on the Port Campbell foreshore.
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