Barwon STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS STATEMENT 2018 - Water and catchments
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Barwon
STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS
STATEMENT
2018
Integrated Water
Management Forums
Acknowledgement of Victoria’s Aboriginal communities The Victorian Government proudly acknowledges Victoria's Aboriginal communities and their rich culture and pays its respects to their Elders past and present. The government also recognises the intrinsic connection of Traditional Owners to Country and acknowledges their contribution to the management of land, water and resources. We acknowledge Aboriginal people as Australia’s first peoples and as the Traditional Owners and custodians of the land and water on which we rely. We recognise and value the ongoing contribution of Aboriginal people and communities to Victorian life and how this enriches us. We embrace the spirit of reconciliation, working towards the equality of outcomes and ensuring an equal voice. © The State of Victoria Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning 2018 This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International licence. You are free to re-use the work under that licence, on the condition that you credit the State of Victoria as author. The licence does not apply to any images, photographs or branding, including the Victorian Coat of Arms, the Victorian Government logo and the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) logo. To view a copy of this licence, visit creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ Printed by Finsbury Green, Melbourne ISBN 978-1-76077-339-7 – Print format ISBN 978-1-76077-340-3 – Online (pdf/word) format Disclaimer This publication may be of assistance to you but the State of Victoria and its employees do not guarantee that the publication is without flaw of any kind or is wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or other consequence which may arise from you relying on any information in this publication. Accessibility If you would like to receive this publication in an alternative format, please telephone the DELWP Customer Service Centre on 136 186 or email customer.service@delwp.vic.gov.au or via the National Relay Service on 133 677, www.relayservice.com.au. This document is also available on the internet at www.delwp.vic.gov.au Cover photograph Erskine Falls. Photographer: Carol Boyle
Integrated Water Management is a collaborative approach to water planning and management that brings together organisations with an interest in all aspects of the water cycle. It has the potential to provide greater value to our communities by identifying and leveraging opportunities to optimise outcomes.
Contents Foreword 1 Acknowledgements 2 Executive summary 3 IWM strategic pathway 4 IWM opportunities 5 Chapter 1 The way forward 6 Introduction 7 Enduring collaboration 8 Outcome areas for the Barwon IWM Forum 10 IWM outcomes 12 Chapter 2 IWM in the Region 14 Regional Context 15 Understanding the needs of our region Vision and Strategic Outcomes 16 Success stories 26 Chapter 3 IWM opportunities 28 IWM opportunities: An overview of projects and strategies 30 Priority Portfolio of IWM projects and strategies 32 Appendix 1 42 IWM stakeholders – responsibilities, legislation and strategies 42 Appendix 2 46 Overview of local government authorities 46
Foreword
The Barwon Region is the fastest growing region
in Victoria, outside of urban Melbourne.
With areas of significant natural and identifies opportunities which sources through the development of
beauty, it is an increasingly popular will underpin the long term strategic the Regional Recycled Water Plan.
tourist and holiday destination but plan for water management across This Strategic Directions Statement
is also known for its quality lifestyle the Barwon Region. The Forum is will be reviewed and updated on a
and vibrant economy based on committed to delivering an integrated regular basis with other opportunities
high quality food and wine, health regional water strategy which will further defined and incorporated
services, education and advanced ensure a secure and sustainable and outcomes evaluated over time.
manufacturing. Greater Geelong is water cycle that supports the long
It is a privilege and honour to Chair
Victoria’s second largest city and term prosperity of our Region.
the Barwon Region Integrated Water
major economic hub, and will continue
This Strategic Directions Statement Management Forum and work with
to be so with the state’s largest
has identified a number of committed and passionate leaders
growth areas outside Melbourne.
opportunities to progress integrated and managers who are collectively
Coastal towns and inland centres are
water management at a number of aiming to achieve best practice in
also growing strongly, including at
scales including taking an integrated water management. This Strategic
Bannockburn in Golden Plains Shire
approach to planning in townships Directions Statement is a starting
Council which is the fastest growing
across the Region as well as delivering point in delivering integrated water
town in the state at 8.5% per annum.
on some opportunities that could management that supports a long
Water has a critical role to play in all
really transform the Region. The term sustainable future for the
that attracts people to the Region
Barwon River Parklands project aims Barwon Region.
including driving population growth,
to create a continuous active travel
supporting economic growth and
pathway extending from Geelong
development and meeting community
to Barwon Heads along the Barwon
needs and expectations.
River and will deliver valuable
The Barwon Region Integrated cultural, environmental and social Carol Boyle
Water Management Forum drives values to the regional community. Chair of the Barwon IWM Forum
a collaborative and integrated The Northern and Western Geelong
approach to water management that Growth Area of Geelong, the largest
enables sustainable environmental, urban growth project in regional
social, cultural and community Victoria with a projected capacity
prosperity for the Region. Comprised of more than 110,000 new Geelong
of regional leaders representing residents, is taking an integrated
traditional custodians, local water management approach to
governments, statutory authorities ensure more sustainable long term
and government agencies, the outcomes. The Region is also focussing
Forum has developed this Strategic on maximising use of alternative water
Directions Statement which sets out
the principles, vision and outcomes
for integrated water management
Barwon Strategic Directions Statement 1
Acknowledgments
The Barwon Region Eastern Maar lands extend as far The Forum area is abundant in
north as Ararat and encompasses Aboriginal cultural sites with a majority
covers both Eastern the Warrnambool, Port Fairy and of these found near waterways and
Maar and Wadawurrung Great Ocean Road areas. It also the coast. The Forum stakeholders
(Wathaurung) Country, stretches 100m out to sea from low acknowledge these traditional
tide and therefore includes the iconic custodians who have managed land
whose ancestors and Twelve Apostles, while the traditional and water sustainably over thousands
their descendants boundaries of the Wadawurrung of generations, and maintain
are the traditional people span the Painkalac creek, an active connection to Country.
Aireys Inlet, to Beaufort and
custodians of this land. This Strategic Directions Statement
Werribee River.
has been developed by the Barwon
Integrated Water Management
Forum (the Forum), which includes
the following organisations:
2 Barwon Strategic Directions Statement
Executive summary
The Barwon Integrated Working together to optimise and
integrate our outcomes provides
Water Management the best opportunity for efficient,
Vision
Region is located in effective and meaningful investment Integrated, collaborative
regional Victoria, to in water cycle management, which management of the water
also supports community outcomes, cycle that enables sustainable
the west and south bolsters local economy and makes environmental, social, cultural
west of the Melbourne our Region more green and liveable. and community prosperity
metropolitan area. This is known as Integrated Water for the Barwon Region.
Management (IWM).
The Barwon Region (the Region)
is currently facing a number of This Strategic Directions Statement
challenges including population (SDS) has been developed by the Strategic outcomes
growth, climate change impacts, Barwon IWM Forum (the Forum) which
changing community needs and is comprised of regional leaders 1. Safe, secure and affordable
expectations and the continued representing traditional custodians, supplies in an uncertain future;
need to support regional economic local governments, statutory 2. Effective and affordable
growth and development. authorities and government agencies. wastewater systems;
IWM is dynamic in nature and
3. Avoided or minimised existing
The impact of these challenges consequently it is envisaged that this
and future flood risks;
on the water cycle is complex and SDS will be a living document which
interrelated and varying across the 4. Healthy and valued waterways
will be updated to reflect the Region’s
Region. These challenges include the and marine environments;
current priorities and opportunities.
availability of water in catchments 5. Healthy and valued urban,
and changing volume and changing The Forum has agreed to the following agricultural, rural and green
quality of stormwater runoff into vision and strategic outcomes and landscapes;
waterways and marine environments. is committed to collaborating and
6. Traditional Owner and community
The impact for the Region is ensuring working effectively together to ensure
values reflected in place-based
we can continue to sustain the long we continue to deliver on this vision
planning;
term health and wellbeing of our and outcomes.
7. Jobs, economic growth
natural assets and our community.
and innovation.
As our Region continues to grow and
prosper, we need to be innovative
to ensure water and wastewater
services are accessible to a growing
region and developing economy.
Multiple local and regional agencies
have responsibilities in managing the
varying aspects of the water cycle,
including stormwater, drinking and
waste water.
Geelong. Courtesy: Barwon Water
Barwon Strategic Directions Statement 3
IWM strategic pathway
The Barwon IWM The Barwon Region IWM Forum (the
Forum) has collectively agreed to
Strategic Directions focus on delivery of the following
Statement highlights priority opportunities to begin to
the key challenges in make some short term inroads into
IWM across the Region and focus
the Region and also on responding to issues that require
identifies collaborative immediate action.
IWM opportunities that There are additional opportunities,
can improve resilience detailed in this SDS, that the Forum
and liveability in cities has identified as requiring further
scoping and definition.
and towns in the Region.
Region wide opportunities
2
Cressy
Bannockburn 13
1
Geelong
6
Winchelsea 14
Queenscliff
10 Barwon
Colac
Anglesea
11 9
Birregurra
5 Forrest
Lorne
Corio
4
Apollo Bay 15
Norlane
3
Geelong
7
Clifton
Springs
Waurn 12
Ponds
8
Armstrong
Creek
4 Barwon Strategic Directions Statement
IWM opportunities
Partners of the Forum are committing their best endeavours to ensure priority
projects and strategies are progressed in line with the shared vision and
strategic outcomes of the Barwon IWM Forum. The key IWM opportunities
include (in no priority order):
1 Barwon River Parklands 6 Winchelsea IWM Plan 11 Irrewillepe Stormwater
Master Plan review Basin Upgrade
An IWM plan for Winchelsea, the largest
This project will involve a review of the inland town in Surf Coast Shire, will help This initiative will develop a preferred design
existing master plan and reinvigorate understand the issues and opportunities for option to upgrade an existing but under-
connections between multiple stakeholders integrated water solutions across the town performing retarding basin and include
to create a continuous active travel and will ensure natural and cultural water additional amenity and environmental
pathway from Geelong to Barwon cycle assets such as the Barwon River outcomes to transform the basin into
Heads along the Barwon River. are a key feature of the town’s future. a showpiece of water sensitive urban
design (WSUD).
2 Regional Recycled 7 Clifton Springs IWM Plan
Water Plan 12 Deakin University
An IWM plan for Clifton Springs will aim Waurn Ponds IWM Plan
This ambitious project will develop a plan to reorientate all infrastructure around
to reuse 100 per cent of Barwon Water’s connection to the water cycle. The plan The Deakin University Waurn Ponds campus
recycled water produced at 10 Water will include the Bay and existing natural is growing, and this IWM plan will help create
Reclamation Plants and has the potential catchment and landscape features. a sustainable pathway for that growth to
to create significant economic and ensure resilience to flooding and climate
environmental benefit to the Region. change and will establish the campus at
8 Sparrowvale Stormwater the leading edge of sustainable precinct
Northern and Western Master Plan and building design.
3
Geelong Growth Areas – This project will address stormwater
IWM Plan runoff and flood risk from the Armstrong 13 Bannockburn IWM Plan
Creek growth area to wetlands with high Bannockburn is the fastest growing town in
An IWM Plan for the Growth Areas will
environmental value, while providing the Victoria at 8.5% per annum, and this plan
ensure water is considered in an integrated
new community with a useable and high will ensure that the town is well equipped
way and that these key growth nodes are
quality public amenity. to manage that growth in a way that
developed to support a sustainable and
resilient community for years to come. maximises environmental, social and
economic outcomes using integrated
9 Birregurra IWM Plan water management.
4 Apollo Bay IWM Plan This project has arisen due to the need to
An IWM plan for this important coastal town upgrade the wastewater treatment plant, Streetscape stormwater
14
which will coincide with investigation of
on the Great Ocean Road will consider infiltration trial Borough
all aspects of the water cycle system and water supply upgrade options, as well as
other key aspects of the town’s water cycle.
of Queenscliffe
identify opportunities to address key issues
including diversification of water sources, This initiative will respond to localised
fit for purpose reuse and integrating flooding in Point Lonsdale by developing
water into new urban developments. 10 Colac Botanic Pathway a streetscape scale stormwater disposal
and Green Spine process direct to groundwater that could
be transferable to other areas with sandy
5 Forrest Wastewater The project will investigate the creation
soils and good infiltration.
Investigation of a continuous recreational pathway
connecting key natural assets in Colac,
This project will work with the Forrest such as the Lake and Barongarook Creek, 15 Stead Park Recycled Water
community to investigate opportunities and will make a major contribution to
This project will ensure that recycled water
for wastewater improvements in the town, making Colac a more connected and
from Barwon Water’s Northern Water
which is facing significant and widespread liveable regional city.
Plant can be used on the sports facilities
issues with its current onsite wastewater
adjacent to the plant, by establishing a
system. An improved system could greatly
water use agreement and onsite distribution
benefit the economy and support tourism.
infrastructure to facilitate its use.
The output will be a business case to
support the preferred solution.
Barwon Strategic Directions Statement 5
Chapter 1 The way forward The water cycle system is complex and interrelated, with many stakeholders having a role to play in managing its various aspects. Due to its complexity, it is important we work together and take an integrated, cross agency management approach to achieve the desired outcomes agreed to by the Forum to ultimately plan, manage and deliver better water services. Geelong Cats AFL indigenous round. Courtesy: Barwon Water 6 Barwon Strategic Directions Statement
Chapter 1
Introduction
This IWM SDS is an agreement between the stakeholders also
known as the Barwon IWM Forum (the Forum). It delves deeper
into the challenges facing the Region, issues requiring action and
opportunities that require a collaborative response for long term
regional prosperity.
The Forum has agreed to the following vision, purpose and principles:
Vision 3. Water management includes The aim of the Forum, set out by
ensuring healthy communities and an agreed Terms of Reference, is
Integrated, collaborative healthy environments exist across to build on and further develop the
management of the water cycle that the Region, enabling communities relationships and capability that
enables sustainable environmental, to experience, enjoy and actively exist in the Region. The Forum will
social, cultural and community participate in outdoor recreation enable an IWM vision and strategy
prosperity for the Barwon Region. and cultural practices; that will provide direction for priority
4. IWM is underpinned by regional IWM opportunities and process
Purpose collaboration. transformations that can support
resilient and liveable cities and
The purpose of the Barwon IWM
Background towns in the Region into the future.
Forum is to provide a collaborative
platform for overseeing, supporting The Forum works with the Barwon
The IWM Framework for Victoria,
and, where necessary, facilitating Integrated Water Cycle Management
released in September 2017, is
water’s contribution to community (IWCM) Network, an established
designed to help regional stakeholders
prosperity, resilience and liveability collaborative practitioner network
work together, ensuring integrated
in the Barwon Region. initiated in 2012. The IWCM Network
water cycle management contributes
to the liveability of towns and has a defined process for IWM
Principles cities in Victoria, with communities across the Region and works
at the centre of decision making. together to share learnings
The Forum is governed by set of and deliver regional projects.
Central to the IWM Framework is
principles developed by the Chair
the establishment of high level IWM
and Forum partners: In addition, the State Government
forums to help stakeholders work more
has established a Resilient Cities and
1. Water management across the effectively together in applying IWM
Towns (RCT) Reference Group which
Region must be sustainable and in practice within a defined region.
supports the implementation of IWM
ensure that there will be secure The IWM forums will identify, prioritise
and planning across the state. The
supply of quality water available and oversee the implementation of
Reference Group provides advice to
to meet environmental, cultural critical collaborative opportunities.
the Department of Environment, Land,
and societal needs for the future; (Further information is outlined in the
Water and Planning (DELWP) on the
IWM Framework for Victoria, available
2. Sustainable management of water development and implementation
at https://www.water.vic.gov.au/
will enable economic prosperity; of key initiatives in relation to policy,
liveable/resilient-and-liveable-cities-
processes or knowledge gaps.
and-towns/iwm-framework.)
Barwon Strategic Directions Statement 7Enduring collaboration
The Barwon IWM Forum
The Forum comprises of key organizations (Table 1) who manage various aspects of the water cycle and how it contributes
to the liveability of towns and cities across the Region.
Table 1 Barwon IWM Forum members
Organisation Responsibilities
Councils – Councils provide a wide variety of services to their municipalities and enforce various
federal, state and local laws for their communities. These services include stormwater
Borough of Queenscliffe
management, public health, traffic, parking, animal management and land use
City of Greater Geelong planning, reserve and asset management.
Colac Otway Shire
Community infrastructure maintained by councils in Victoria is estimated to be valued
Golden Plains Shire at over $40 billion and includes roads, bridges, drains, town halls, libraries, recreation
Surf Coast Shire facilities, parks and gardens.
Traditional Owner Traditional Owner Corporations hold significant rights to the land and have cultural
Corporations – obligations to manage traditional lands and waters. They are equal partners in
ensuring catchment health. In many cases, Traditional Owners rights over Crown
Wathaurung Aboriginal
land and waterways are recognised in settlement agreements (covering over
Corporation
40 parks and reserves) and governance arrangements to ensure their perspectives,
Eastern Maar knowledge and interests are valued.
Barwon Water Barwon Water (Barwon Region Water Corporation) is Victoria's largest regional
urban water corporation, providing high quality water, recycled water and sewerage
services to urban and rural customers across 8,100 square kilometres. Our water
and sewerage services underpin economic, social and environmental dimensions
of regional prosperity.
Corangamite Catchment The Corangamite CMA’s role is defined in accordance with the CaLP Act 1994 and the
Management Authority (CCMA) Water Act 1989 statement of obligations. Specifically this is to facilitate the planning for
a Regional Catchment Strategy and associated strategies that inform NRM investment
priorities. In partnership, the CMA provide services relating to integrated waterway
management for the protection, maintenance and improvement of river health.
Southern Rural Water The Corporation operates irrigation districts at Maffra, Bacchus Marsh and Werribee,
Corporation manages seven major dams and licences groundwater users and river diverters across
the southern half of Victoria.
Department of Environment, In partnership with its agencies, the Department supports Victoria’s natural and
Land, Water and Planning built environment to ensure economic growth and liveable, sustainable and inclusive
(DELWP) communities. The Department assists the minister, develops and implements state
policies and programs, and oversees the administration of organisations including
catchment management authorities and water corporations.
Department of Health and The Department develops and delivers policies, programs and services that support
Human Services (DHHS) and enhance the health and wellbeing of all Victorians.
8 Barwon Strategic Directions StatementChapter 1
Strategic alignment Role of the Forum • provide a coordinated approach to
inform regional policy and strategies,
The Forum will, where possible, The role of the Forum is to collectively including Sustainable Water
establish relationships with existing provide leadership, authority and Strategies and Long-Term Water
partnerships including the G21 strategic guidance for IWM planning Resource Assessments;
Geelong Regional Alliance and across the Region with a focus on:
the Corangamite Catchment • Provide vision, direction and endorse
• identifying, prioritising and the SDS for the Region for the
Management Regional Partnership to
supporting progress of IWM Minister for Water to be reviewed
maximise collaborative efforts across
opportunities using an agreed at least every two years or as
the Region in realising opportunities.
criteria or process; decided by Forum participants.
The Forum also needs to be aware of
the relevant legislation and regional • discuss and confirm the roles The Forum itself meets 3-4 times
strategies that fit under the IWM and responsibilities of members, per year, and includes the senior
banner and better understand the and identify and invite appropriate executives of each organization.
interrelationships and implications participants from other However, the bulk of the work is
for IWM and the Region’s liveability organisations, when relevant; undertaken at the practitioner
(Refer Appendix – IWM Stakeholders – level by the IWCM Network and
responsibilities, legislation • discuss and confirm the principles
sub working groups, who have been
and strategies). to be adopted for developing IWM
nominated by each organization.
Plans, and resolving resourcing
issues related to IWM planning and
programs including, when necessary,
formal funding agreements;
West Gellibrand reservoir. Courtesy: Barwon Water
Barwon Strategic Directions Statement 9Outcome areas for the
Barwon IWM Forum
The Forum is taking a systems thinking approach to the water cycle.
We need to consider the regional and local perspectives for IWM and
the challenges facing the Region. We have agreed to the following
strategic outcomes and objectives (summarised in Table 2) and are
committed to collaborating and working effectively together for our
Region’s long term prosperity.
Safe, secure Effective and Healthy and
and affordable affordable valued
supplies in wastewater waterways
an uncertain systems and marine
future environments
As the Region continues to develop The Black Rock Water Reclamation With climate change impacting river
and grow, we need to provide safe, Plant is the largest in the Region and lake water quality in addition
secure and affordable water supplies and services the greater Geelong, to treated wastewater discharge
across the Region. There is potential Bellarine and Surf Coast areas. Many via ocean outfalls and runoff from
for alternative water supplies such smaller townships in the Region utilise growing industrial sites, our waterway
as recycled water and stormwater domestic scale septic tank systems. and marine environments are being
to make a significant contribution Municipal councils are responsible impacted. We need to collaborate to
to alleviating medium term threats for regulating domestic wastewater ensure we minimise our impacts on
to drinking water supply security management. Golden Plains Shire, these ecosystems. They provide us
including during peak holiday Colac Otway Shire and Surf Coast immeasurable health and wellbeing
periods (e.g. Lorne, Apollo Bay). Shire are in the process of reviewing benefits and it is critical to clarify
this approach. Lack of sewerage roles and responsibilities around rural
services in some small, yet growing drainage and river management.
towns such as Forrest and Inverleigh
are a challenge for the Region due
to their inability to service growing
populations and the potential impacts
of overflows into the environment.
10 Barwon Strategic Directions StatementChapter 1
Avoided or Accordingly, flood risk is a growing
concern in urban areas, downstream
minimised
land uses and the receiving water
existing and bodies such as the bay, rivers and
future flood lakes. There is potential for urban
risks development areas both greenfields
and brownfields sites through
innovative IWM approaches to minimise
localised flooding risk and contribute
There is increased pressure on local
to catchment based stormwater
government stormwater systems and
strategies to address increases in flood
overland flooding provisions, due to
volume and frequency. An integrated
a range of factors including ageing
approach to stormwater could also
infrastructure, increasing urbanisation
reduce the demand on drainage assets
and impermeable surfaces, urban
(e.g. Colac West – Deans Creek).
consolidation and increasing frequency
of intense rainfall events.
Healthy and Traditional Jobs,
valued urban, Owner and economic
agricultural, community growth and
rural and values reflected innovation
green in place-based
landscapes planning
Recreational and green spaces provide We acknowledge Aboriginal people Water will play a key role in supporting
physical and mental health and as the traditional custodians of the economic growth and development
wellbeing benefits for communities. land and water on which they rely. including industry, a growing
Collaborating to ensure there is The traditional custodians have a agricultural sector and a thriving
sufficient healthy urban spaces is a core strong connection to water as a vital tourism sector. Maintaining the quality
focus. The Region also has highly valued part of their life and culture. They are of aquatic and coastal environments
natural assets which have cultural represented by the five four Aboriginal is core to the tourism industry in the
heritage significance and attract group across the Barwon Region Region. Being innovative in how we
significant numbers of tourists. We need including the Wadawurrung, Kuu Yang ensure water is available for growing
to ensure we work together to sustain Maar, Eastern Maar and Guli-Gad. and diverse industries requires us all
the health of these natural assets. In to work together and collectively
addition, we have a growing agricultural make decisions that result in the
sector which rely on healthy landscapes best outcomes.
and soils to provide productive land.
This outcome supports a growing
economy and a prosperous Region.
Barwon Strategic Directions Statement 11IWM outcomes
Table 2 Summary of outcomes and objectives
Outcomes
Safe, secure and affordable Effective and affordable Avoided or minimised existing Healthy and valued waterways
supplies in an uncertain future wastewater systems and future flood risks and marine environments
Objectives
A diverse range of water Meets public health and Community and property Waterway health is
supplies and resources environmental standards resilience to local flood risk understood and improved
Water quality meets Effective and affordable Prevent the likelihood of Marine environment health is
regulatory standards and sewerage systems contamination via runoff understood and managed
community expectations
Efficiently managed Waste-to-resource Meets best practice water Establish a clear position
water and demand opportunities are maximised quality requirements on roles and responsibilities
including recycled for rural drainage and river
water and energy management including water
quality and security of supply
Secure and diverse water Location and use of Groundwater dependent
supplies for industry, agriculture, retention systems to ecosystems are well managed
health, culture, recreation support re-use initiatives
and economy
Water available to maintain Establish and preserve
valued green community assets overland flow paths
Managing high quality Develop regional urban
groundwater for stormwater management
agricultural purposes policy and strategy
12 Barwon Strategic Directions StatementChapter 1
The outcomes are what we are seeking to achieve over the longer term from the deliberate application of IWM across
the Region. These outcomes have been derived from those articulated in Water for Victoria and the IWM Framework
for Victoria. Each of these seven outcomes will be key in shaping the liveability, prosperity and resilience of our cities
and towns. The outcomes will assist in developing the strategy and prioritising the IWM opportunities for the Region.
Healthy and valued urban, agricultural, Traditional Owner and community Jobs, economic growth and innovation
rural and green landscapes values reflected in place-based planning
Active and passive recreation Aboriginal cultural values associated IWM enables jobs and economic growth
supported by water with waterways acknowledged,
understood, protected and applied
Improved connectivity and Effectively engaging communities Ensuring security and diversity of
access to green and blue spaces to better understand cultural supply to enable economic growth
and community values
Urban landscapes retain moisture Local water related risks and Leveraging knowledge and
for cooler, greener cities and towns issues understood and managed resources to support innovative
and collaborative outcomes
Waterways and coastal environments
accessible as valuable open space
Barwon Strategic Directions Statement 13Chapter 2 IWM in the Region Understanding why an integrated approach to water planning and management is critical for the Barwon IWM Region now and for the future. Great Ocean Road. Courtesy: Carol Boyle 14 Barwon Strategic Directions Statement
Chapter 1
Barwon
POPULATION GROWTH THE REGION
298,780 (2016) AGRICULTURAL LAND
378,268 BY 2031 & PLANTATIONS 79%
8,950km2
21% NATIVE VEGETATION 12% CATCHMENT
INCREASE AREA
URBAN AREAS 8%
WATER BODIES 1%
TEMPERATURE WATERWAYS
BARWON MOORABOOL
AN INCREASE OF
0.6-1.2C 57% 45% IN A ‘MODERATE’
CHANGE IN RAINFALL IN BARWON SOUTH WEST
STREAM CONDITION
BY 2030
7-8% DECREASE
BY 2070
Source:
Victoria in future 2016.
G21 Regional Growth Profile 2014.
Climate Ready Victoria – Barwon South West factsheet (2016).
Corangamite Waterway Strategy 2014-2022.
Barwon Strategic Directions Statement 15Understanding the
needs of our region
Water and the water cycle is a major The local government agencies
aspect of the long term sustainability (detailed in Appendix 2) within this
and prosperity of the Barwon Region. Region are responding to challenges
It is vital in ensuring our natural assets which include meeting the needs
remain healthy and vibrant, and of a growing economy, population
ensuring the long term health and growth, changing community needs
wellbeing of: and expectations and impacts of
climate change. We understand
• our community - ensuring the regional context is constantly
access to water services and changing and will need to be
green and active spaces; reviewed and updated regularly.
• our economy - ensuring
water is available to support
a growing economy;
• our environment - ensuring
our natural assets continue
to remain healthy and vibrant.
Gardening Expo. Courtesy: Barwon Water
16 Barwon Strategic Directions StatementKoala. Courtesy: Carol Boyle
Barwon Strategic Directions Statement 17The following starts to delve deeper into the
challenges we are facing across the Region.
These challenges include:
Population growth • poor urban design practices
contributing to the negative health
It is estimated the population of impact of some communities
the Barwon Region will increase across the Region;
from 298,780 in 2016 to 378,268
by 2031 (VIF2016). Impacts of • urbanisation causing increased
growth on the Region include: runoff volumes and the introduction
of a variety of pollutant sources into
• increased demand waterways and marine environments.
for land and housing;
The Region is a destination for
• increased demand for services national and international visitors
including water, sewerage resulting in a dramatic increase in
and drainage; population during holiday periods,
especially along coastal areas.
• increase demand for recreational
open space, green space,
access to natural areas;
Population growth. Courtesy: Barwon Water
18 Barwon Strategic Directions StatementChapter 2
a. Issues
The Forum has identified a number of issues facing the Region due to population growth over the next five and 10-15 years
(Table 3).
Table 3 Issues in response to population growth
5 years 10 – 15 years
Policy and planning supporting Balancing increasing population growth including new users demand (ie. industry
IWM in practice and agriculture) with decline in water availability and seasonal fluctuations
Aligning regional policy Balancing development yield vs other benefits (eg. environment)
and land use planning
Diversifying water supplies (increasing over time)
Managing changing demand
for water including industry Improving small town sewerage
changes and seasonal All water users need to better understand the value of water and take action
fluctuations in tourism to be sustainable with their water use
Facilitating more peri-urban agriculture
Meeting new infrastructure challenges
b. Opportunities
The Forum and IWCM Network have identified opportunities in response to the issues relating to population growth
(Table 4), some of which are yet to be more clearly defined.
Table 4 Opportunities for responding to population growth
Opportunity Description Status
Plan North and Western Geelong Growth Area – IWM Plan Priority
Policy Integration of IWM with planning and policy To be defined
Build capacity IWM training delivered to build capability in IWM To be defined
planning and organisational change
Investigation Future State report - taking a systems approach To be defined
Barwon Strategic Directions Statement 19Climate change the impacts of temperature rise as • Changes in rainfall patterns
are urban developments that have resulting in more high intensity
The impacts of climate change not accommodated enough green rainfall in urban areas impacting
pose a significant risk for the space to provide shade; urban drainage and increasing the
Barwon Region due to: likelihood of sediment, nitrogen, and
• Reduced rainfall resulting in other pollutant loads into waterways
• Sea level rise and coastal erosion reduced run off into waterways, and marine environments;
will cause infrastructure assets to impacting waterway health as well
be at risk. Sea level is projected as accessibility of surface water for • Importance of minimising flood risk
to increase in the order of 0.08 to provision of drinking water, irrigation through flood mitigation given the
0.18m above the 1986–2005 levels for recreation and supporting a increased intensities from rainfall
(Climate Resilient Communities); growing agriculture sector. The major events, chance of flash flooding
waterways that are of significance and reliance on overland flow
• Temperature rise where warming
across the Region includes the paths to manage the risk;
is projected to be around 0.6 to
Barwon and Moorabool Rivers.
1.2°C above that of 1986–2005 • Significant risks to underground
The majority of stream lengths in the
(South West Climate Change water system infrastructure
Barwon and Moorabool basins are in
portal). Temperature rises will result assets, including drinking water
moderate or poor condition (CCMA
in increased heat-related stress pipes, sewerage and stormwater
Waterway Strategy 2014-2022);
and mortality among aged and infrastructure. It is critical to ensure
‘at risk’ populations as well as a planning and design decisions
higher risk of bush fire. Inland rural ensure these assets are resilient
areas may be most vulnerable to to climate change.
Johnston Park flood. Courtesy: Barwon Water
20 Barwon Strategic Directions StatementChapter 2
a. Issues
The IWM Forum has identified a number of issues facing the Region due to climate change over the next five and 10-15
years (Table 5).
Table 5 Issues associated with climate change impacts
5 years 10 – 15 years
Stormwater management in Responding to the increasing pressure on stormwater infrastructure
Geelong and regional areas, and managing high rainfall events
including potential impacts
on Ramsar sites Clarifying management responsibilities for climate change planning and response
Ensuring adequacy of design for 1:10 ARI storms events given climate impacts
Responding to coastal sea level rise
Ensuring security of supply to industry and impacts on others
(eg. irrigated agriculture and recycled water)
Retaining water at the source, where possible
b. Opportunities
The Forum and IWCM Network have identified opportunities in response to issues relating to climate change (Table 6),
some of which are yet to be more clearly defined.
Table 6 Opportunities in response to the impacts of climate change
Opportunity Description Status
Plan Barwon River parklands master plan review Priority
Investigation State of marine coastal and waterways environment To be defined
report
Plan Sparrowvale stormwater master plan Priority
Project Irrewillepe stormwater basin upgrade Priority
Plan Deakin University (Waurn Ponds) IWM plan Priority
Project Point Lonsdale streetscape stormwater infiltration trial Priority
Barwon Strategic Directions Statement 21Changing community needs and expectations across Region who rated their health as
needs and expectations our Region that we are having excellent or very good ranged from
to continue to review and respond. 52.7% to 59.0% vs 46.6% except in
The Region has a strong indigenous These community needs and Greater Geelong where it was 45.1%.
cultural background and a changing expectations include: Rates of population in all LGAs that
population demographic due to had sufficient levels of physical
national and international people • Acknowledging and protecting activity ranged from 65.6% to 78.3%
migrating to the Region. Water is an our cultural heritage. Water is the vs 63.9%. Physical activity contributes
important aspect of aboriginal culture. lifeblood for Country and the basis of to helping prevent diseases including
We need to ensure communities, many creation stories. Waterways are cardiovascular disease, diabetes,
regardless of their demographics have a historical and ongoing source of some cancers, injury and control
access to recreational, green and food, fibre and medicine, important and the promotion of mental
natural spaces that in turn support place to camp, hunt, fish, swim and health including providing a sense
their physical and mental health. connect with traditional culture and of wellbeing and creating social
stories (CCMA Waterway Strategy connections. Low socio economic
Areas of socio-economic 2014-2022). It is important waterways
regions have generally lower level
disadvantage across the Region are healthy and flowing to maintain
of health and wellbeing. Water is
includes Bell Park, Corio, Norlane, cultural heritage and traditions.
an essential part of mental health
St Leonards, Thomson, Whittington,
• Ensuring we continue to provide for and wellbeing through supporting
Indented Head, St Leonards,
the growing health and wellbeing green open spaces which enable
Portarlington, Winchelsea and Colac.
of our community. The G21 region outdoor activities and connections
The range of diversity in culture,
health profile states that the with the environment.
demographics and socio economic
factors result in varying community proportion of people across the
Traditional smoking ceremony - Wadawurung. Courtesy: Barwon Water
22 Barwon Strategic Directions StatementChapter 2
a. Issues
The Forum has identified a number of issues facing the Region due to changing community needs and expectations
over the next five and 10-15 years (Table 7).
Table 7 Issues arising due to changing community needs and expectations
5 years 10 – 15 years
Clarifying responsibilities for rural drainage Better understanding water's role in building
and river management health resilience into cities and towns
Ensuring the role of healthy urban waterways and Ensuring the cultural and environmental values
connected open space is considered in enhancing of water is acknowledged as strongly as the
the wellbeing and liveability of the Region
social and economic values
Ensuring water is considered as an enabler of broader
Increasing the water literacy across the Region
outcomes
Establishing community water values and future aspirations
regarding water cycle management
Ensuring community concerns regarding extraction
of water from the local environments for use by others
is understood and managed
Ensuring water management and IWM has a greater
focus in the Anglesea Futures process
b. Opportunities
The Forum and IWCM Network have identified the opportunities in response to issues relating to community needs
and expectations (Table 8), some of which are yet to be more clearly defined.
Table 8 Opportunities in response to changing community needs and expectations
Opportunity Description Status
Plan Winchelsea IWM plan Priority
Plan Apollo Bay IWM plan Priority
Plan Birregurra IWM plan Priority
Plan Clifton Springs IWM plan Priority
Project Colac botanic pathway and green spine Priority
Plan Bannockburn IWM Plan Priority
Project Stead Park recycled water project Priority
Plan Anglesea Futures IWM plan To be defined
Barwon Strategic Directions Statement 23Economic growth 17,271. This represents an increase of 826 the Region is expected to rise to
and development businesses (5.02%) from the June 2015 over nine million by 2030. This has
total of 16,445 businesses and compares a significant impact on services in
According to the G21 Economic to an increase of 1,242 businesses (5.29%) coastal towns where populations
Development Strategy, ‘The Region in the Region (Remplan). can triple during holiday periods.
is geographically, economically and
culturally diverse. The Region has The agriculture sector across the Ensuring businesses have access
undergone significant transformation Region is expanding into more intensive to water and sewerage services is
from a major heavy manufacturing agriculture, such as poultry, which essential. In turn businesses will need to
centre over the last 15 years, will enhance existing food processing be efficient in how they use water and
diversifying into higher technology activity in Geelong and Colac have an ability to access affordable
manufacturing, healthcare, education (G21 Regional Growth Plan). To support alternative water sources where
and other sections as well as this development, we need to ensure possible. It is important the practices of
expanding its cultural offering.’ water will be available, seeking businesses do not have a detrimental
alternative supplies to drinking impact on our waterways and marine
The City of Greater Geelong is a major water where possible. environments through pollution runoff.
centre for investment with over 17,000 Coastal towns should have the ability
businesses and a highly skilled labour Tourism is also an important contributor to develop and grow and have access
force of 110,632 (Enterprise Geelong). to the Region’s economy with the to secure water and sewerage services
The total number of businesses in Region home to many tourism assets that support fluctuations in populations
Greater Geelong in June 2017 was and events. The number of visitors to due to tourism.
Tourism and economic growth. Courtesy: City of Greater Geelong
24 Barwon Strategic Directions StatementChapter 2
a. Issues
The Forum has identified several issues facing the Region due to IWM supporting growing economic and development
over the next five and 10-15 years (Table 9).
Table 9 issues arising due to economic growth and development
5 years 10 – 15 years
Developing opportunities for tourism and the arts Ensuring affordability of diverse water supplies to
support economic growth activities and appropriate
Managing water security for coastal communities use of water supplies e.g. recycled water, stormwater
Ensuring a plan is developed to respond to Ensuring security of potable supply
community expectations around Lake Colac
Developing a long term plan for potable and
alternative supplies that supports economic
development and the environment
b. Opportunities
The Forum and IWCM Network have identified opportunities in response to issues relating to economic growth
and development (Table 10), some of which are yet to be more clearly defined.
Table 10 Opportunities in response to economic growth and development
Opportunity Description Status
Investigation Forrest wastewater investigation Priority
Plan Regional recycled water plan Priority
Plan Lake Colac masterplan To be defined
Barwon Strategic Directions Statement 25Success stories
There has been a lot Colac IWCM Plan • Identify opportunities for IWCM
solutions to enhance Colac’s ability
of great work over the The Colac Integrated Water Cycle to become a healthier, greener,
years by state and local Management (IWCM) Plan is a ‘botanic’ city.
strategic blueprint for how the urban
government, regional The plan has led to implementation
water cycle can make a positive
agencies, communities, contribution to Colac’s liveability. of rainwater gardens in the centre of
planning bodies and The plan applies a whole of water Colac and the securing of a grant to
cycle system approach to identify develop detailed designs to upgrade
boards to identify the Irreweillipe Road Retarding Basing.
and develop opportunities to enhance
what we need to do to aspects of the urban water cycle The plan has also informed the Colac
address the challenges to make a positive contribution to 2050 Strategic Planning project to
broader liveability aspirations for the ensure that future growth of Colac
and opportunities in
city. Its primary objectives were to: is undertaken in accordance with
the Region. Three IWM principles.
completed projects • Raise awareness of the role of the
water cycle in achieving Colac’s
are outlined here. future aspirations for liveability,
sustainability and productivity; and
Colac Lake. Courtesy: Barwon Water
26 Barwon Strategic Directions StatementChapter 2
Geelong. Courtesy: Barwon Water
Jan Juc Creek Daylighting undertaken to restore natural habitats. consider water cycle aspects in
Daylighting the Creek enhanced new urban development including
In 2012, the ‘Friends of Jan Juc Creek the biodiversity and public amenity, natural aspects (e.g. waterways and
Reserve’ (FJJCR) community group strengthened the ecological value floodplains), built aspects (e.g. major
presented Council with the idea of of the waterway and improved drainage, land use, open space
reinstating sections of the Creek to stormwater runoff quality. and water sensitive urban design),
a more natural state by removing and servicing aspects (e.g. drinking
underground drainage infrastructure water, sewerage and alternative,
Urban Water Planner
and recreating the Creek channel fit-for-purpose water sources). By
(daylighting). The project involved Integrated Water Cycle Management working with the relevant agencies
decommissioning and modifying (IWCM) is about managing the and incorporating IWCM principles
the existing underground drainage, interaction between the urban early in the process, developers and
returning stormwater flows to the environment and the water cycle. consultants can save time, resources
surface of the Creek, building a The urban water planner provides and money.
sedimentation basin, and reshaping a resource for urban developers,
Creek banks. Extensive replanting consultants and planners to
of indigenous species was also
Barwon Strategic Directions Statement 27Chapter 3 IWM opportunities A portfolio of IWM projects and strategies for which IWM collaborative partners have committed themselves to applying their best endeavours to progress. Recycled water at Torquay. Courtesy: Barwon Water
Thirty-eight IWM opportunities have been identified with 15 prioritised by assessing the extent of likely impact, or benefit of the opportunity if achieved and ‘ease of implementation’ of the opportunity. The IWCM Network will continue to develop and define the other opportunities that are not currently priorities. Once defined, these opportunities will be added in further reviews and updates of the SDS.
IWM opportunities: An overview
verview
of projects and strategies
A summarised list of priority IWM opportunities as endorsed by the Forum
is shown in the table below, with more detail in the following section.
IWM opportunity Strategic outcomes Location Spatial scale
Barwon River Parklands Barwon River from Forum Area
Master Plan Review Geelong Ring
Road through to
Barwon Heads
Regional Recycled Water Plan At all water Forum Area
reclamation plants
North and Western Geelong Geelong Region
Growth Area – IWM Plan
Apollo Bay IWM Plan Apollo Bay Region
Forrest Wastewater Forrest Town
Investigation
Winchelsea IWM Plan Winchelsea Town
Clifton Springs IWM Plan Clifton Springs Town
and Drysdale
Sparrowvale Wetland Flood/ Marshall Precinct
Stormwater Master Plan
Birregurra IWM Plan Birregurra Town
Colac Botanic Pathway Colac Town
and Green Spine Project
Irrewillepe Stormwater Colac Town
Basin Upgrade Plan
Deakin University Waurn Deakin University Town
Ponds IWM Plan Waurn Ponds campus
Bannockburn IWM Plan Bannockburn Town
Point Lonsdale Streetscape Point Lonsdale Precinct
Stormwater Infiltration
Trial Project
Stead Park Recycled Stead Park, Corio Lot Scale
Water Project
The status of each IWM opportunity included in the Priority Portfolio reflects the phase of work to be undertaken in this time period.
Shade scale
No Impact Impact
30 Barwon Strategic Directions StatementChapter 3
Lead Status Links to other strategies
Corangamite Catchment Management Authority G21 Environment Pillar;
Corangamite Catchment
Partnership
Barwon Water Urban Water Strategy 2018
(Barwon Water)
City of Greater Geelong Geelong Settlements Strategy
Barwon Water Barwon Water Strategy 2030
Barwon Water Barwon Water Strategy 2030
Surf Coast Shire Growing Winchelsea;
G21 Planning & Services Pillar
City of Greater Geelong
City of Greater Geelong RAMSAR Management Plan
Colac Otway Shire Colac 2050
Colac Otway Shire Colac 2050;
G21 Planning & Services Pillar
Colac Otway Shire Colac 2050
Deakin University
Golden Plains Shire Bannockburn Structure Plan;
G21 Economic Development Pillar
Borough of Queenscliffe Council Plan 2017-2021, Strategic
Objective 1: Community Wellbeing
Barwon Water Barwon Water Strategy 2030
Project opportunity status
Concept & feasibility Business case Detailed design Implementation Commission Benefit realisation
Strategy opportunity status
Concept Commitment Prepare draft Consult & finalise Implement Evaluate
Barwon Strategic Directions Statement 31Priority Portfolio of IWM
projects and strategies
Barwon River. Photographer: Carol Boyle
ACTION BR1
Plan – Barwon River Parklands Master Plan Review
The Barwon River Parklands is a long-envisioned idea for creating a continuous
Status Endorsed by partners as
active travel pathway extending from Geelong to Barwon Heads along the Barwon
a priority project for the
River. Incorporated as a strategically planned component of the G21 Adventure Trails Corangamite Catchment
Priority Project, the Parklands project builds on the popular recreation opportunities Partnership (CPA)
of the existing trail network through Geelong to create an iconic walking and cycling Agreement.
route along the River which has valuable cultural, environmental and social values to
Lead agency Corangamite Catchment
the regional community. The project would involve a review of the master plan and Management Authority
reinvigorating the connections between multiple stakeholders to identify practical
initiatives and projects that can contribute to achieve the long term vision. There are Location Barwon River from
opportunities to leverage and integrate with other projects such as recreation/amenity Geelong ring road
through to Barwon Heads
upgrades within the Geelong segment and Barwon Water’s land at Aqueduct Park.
Timeframe 5-10 years
Next steps: Partners Parks Vic, Barwon Water,
City of Greater Geelong
Corangamite CMA to hold stakeholder meeting in August 2018. and Regional Development
Victoria
CCMA in conjunction with partners to seek funding.
Scale Forum Area
32 Barwon Strategic Directions StatementChapter 3
ACTION BR2
Plan – Regional Recycled Water Plan
Barwon Water currently reuses 25% of the Region’s recycled water produced at 10
Status In progress
Water Reclamation Plants. In keeping with its commitment to achieve Zero Waste,
Barwon Water is developing a strategic plan to reuse 100 per cent of this recycled Lead agency Barwon Water
water. This ambitious target will require a significant step-change and has the
potential to create significant benefit to the Region supporting healthy green urban,
Location At all water reclamation
rural and agricultural landscapes as well as the potential for jobs and economic
plants
development. The Plan will consider short, medium and long term opportunities
and a strategic framework to accommodate future needs. Timeframe 1-2 years
Partners
Next steps:
Scale Forum Area
Commence development of the recycled water plan.
ACTION BR3
Northern and Western Geelong Growth Areas – IWM Plan
The Northern and Western Geelong Growth Area is the largest urban growth project in
Status In progress
regional Victoria with the potential to welcome more than 110,000 new Geelong residents.
The project will address the long-term growth needs of Geelong, facilitating diverse and Lead agency City of Greater Geelong
affordable housing and employment opportunities for the City over the coming decades.
The Northern Geelong Growth Area, in Lovely Banks, is anticipated to deliver up to
Location Greater Geelong
18,000 new dwellings for a population of approximately 48,000 residents. The Western
Geelong Growth Area, in Batesford, is anticipated to deliver up to 22,000 new dwellings Timeframe 5 years
for a population of approximately 62,000 residents. The Western Geelong Growth Area
includes more than 20 kilometres of river frontage to the Barwon and Moorabool Rivers Partners
and Cowies Creek.
Scale Geelong
An IWM Plan developed for this Region will ensure water is considered in an integrated
way including ensuring sustainable water use, impacts of urban development on
local waterways is managed and the Region supports continued economic growth
and development and supports the health and wellbeing of the community.
Next steps:
Community engagement underway.
Barwon Strategic Directions Statement 33You can also read
