Catholic church runs the risk of losing land if public access is not reinstated

BY ALISON MARTIN

THE CHURCH opens its doors to all, but access has become a contentious issue for the Torquay's Catholic parish.

The Catholic diocese is being asked to reconsider its decision to fence-off the church property which has blocked public access.

Community members of all ages have until recently used a strip of the church-owned land which lies between the playground on Sarabande Crescent and the Surf Coast Highway, but a fence now stands in their way.

Resident, Tamba Rose, is being encouraged by neighbours to launch a petition to convince the church to allow residents to use the access point, which had served the community for as long as most people can remember.

She said many residents were now forced to share a busy laneway at the back of shops with trucks making deliveries and cars.

"The church land provided easy access for kids through to the crossing and school and people used it to get to the bus stop on the (Surf Coast) highway," Rose said.

"Children are now riding their bikes and walking through the laneway at the back of the shops.

"Quite a few elderly people have to use it too, and the laneway is uneven and difficult for them."

She said the only alternative to the laneway for pedestrians was to walk a far greater distance from Sarabande Crescent to Rocklea Drive and to the Surf Coast Highway.

"I thought it would be good for the church to have access for their people and for kids to be able to use the playground," Rose said.

"I have written to the council and other families keep asking me to get a petition organised; which I'm considering."

Surf Coast Shire is also continuing to negotiate with the property division of the Catholic Church and is hoping to reach an arrangement which satisfies the requirements of the church but provides much-needed access for the community.

Surf Coast Shire councillor, Dean Webster, urged the local parishioners to lobby the Melbourne diocese to respond to the concerns of the broader community.

"We have been negotiating with the Catholic diocese in good faith since construction to allow continued access for our community from the council reserve through the church site to the safe crossing at the Surf Coast Highway," he said.

"For nearly 30 years our community has had unrestricted access through the church site and they may have adverse possession rights if tested, to reinstate access.

"Apparently the diocese is using liability and maintenance reasons to close the access, however, council is prepared to take responsibility for 
these issues if a permanent access easement is provided."

A response from the Catholic diocese was not available when the Surf Coast Times went to press.

Multi-million dollar water recycling pipeline to protect Torquay's water supply

BY NATHAN HALE

TORQUAY'S water worries are set to take a back seat after a $10.5million investment in a new water recycling initiative was unveiled on the weekend.

The announcement will see the construction of a dual pipeline system to deliver recycled water to 3,000 new homes in north Torquay, as well as a host of community green spaces and businesses in town.

The project is expected to save 850 million litres of potable water and produce more than 900 million litres of recycled water each year.

The new Torquay Community and Civic Precinct will benefit from the announcement, as will local market gardeners and flower growers, and the Torquay Golf Club and Spring Creek Reserve.

Surf Coast Shire Mayor, Libby Coker, was joined by Minister for Climate Change, Energy Efficiency and Water, Senator Penny Wong, Member for Corangamite, Darren Cheeseman, and Barwon Water managing director, Michael Malouf for the announcement.

The quartet met at the Black Rock Recycling Plant on Saturday to announce the funding pledge from the Labor government - which equates to half of the total cost of the $21million project.

Coker said the announcement was great news for Torquay - and came after years of hard work from this, and the previous, council.

"Surf Coast Shire has been lobbying for some time for recycled water to be delivered to Torquay," Coker said.

"We're certainly pleased the Federal Government has announced this important step towards securing our water supply and providing more opportunities for sustainable living; particularly in Torquay north where future population growth will be directed.

"The pipeline also provides a lot of potential for irrigated horticulture projects in the Thompson Valley, which council has been seeking to help cultivate for some time.

"Council would welcome the further extension of this pipeline in the future to make class-A recycled water a viable option for more Surf Coast residents and businesses."

The pipeline will run from the Black Rock facility, north of Thompson Creek to Horseshoe Bend Road, then along Horseshoe Bend Road to join with South Beach Road.

The pipe will go across the Surf Coast Highway, as far as Coombes Road, before travelling along the back of Spring Creek - which will enable the golf club and Spring Creek Reserve to have access to the recycled water.

"I believe this is one of the most important pieces of town infrastructure we have funded so far," said Cheeseman, himself a Torquay resident.

"Torquay is one of Victoria's fastest growing residential areas and this is terrific news and will help drought-proof our town and make the town more sustainable by taking the pressure off potable water supplies."

Coalition pledges financial support to upgrade Spring Creek Reserve clubrooms

BY NATHAN HALE

TORQUAY will get its first extensive community facility if a Coalition government wins power at next month's federal election.

Liberal candidate for Corangamite, Sarah Henderson, last week pledged $350,000 to help turn the ageing clubrooms at Spring Creek Reserve into a space for the whole community to enjoy.

While Torquay has a number of smaller venues available for use by the community around town, there are few places boasting the size of the proposed clubrooms to hold events.

This was underlined with the Surf Coast Shire Council holding its monthly meeting at the clubrooms when a huge crowd turned out for the decision on the development of Spring Creek last year.

And just last month the Concerned Parents About Torquay and Surfcoast Schooling held its public meeting at the clubrooms.

Henderson has worked closely with the Torquay Football Club to help secure the funding for the $1million project, and while she acknowledged the club would benefit hugely from the cash splash, she also said the wider community would reap the rewards.

"The big issue with Torquay is that it is a rapidly growing community," Henderson said.

"And the football club is no different with its growth. They currently have 400 junior players alone at the moment and they are struggling to keep pace with the growth.

"So for the whole community - not just the football club - this is a very important upgrade.

"Having a community facility is really important for any town, and this upgrade will provide a facility that families will find very important.

"Torquay Football Club is a family orientated club with a strong family focus.

"They have been very successful in cultivating a family atmosphere and it was very important that we secured this funding."

The proposed upgrade will include a refurbishment and expansion of the existing clubrooms, upgraded toilet facilities, better storage and the creation of a viewing balcony.

The pledge is part of a $4.79million injection of funds promised for the Surf Coast, Bellarine Peninsula and Geelong region by the Coalition should they win the August 21 election.

"This commitment of almost $5million is a very substantial one," Henderson said.

"It will deliver major investment in local infrastructure to meet the needs of growing communities, and these projects will provide a real boost to communities.

"I have been working with Ross Henderson and Denis Ryan from the Torquay Football Club for a number of months now and am absolutely delighted that a Coalition Government will commit to these upgrades.

"Ross and Denis have done a wonderful job advocating on behalf of the club."

Bunnings submits amended plans as local business leaders prepare to meet this week

BY NATHAN HALE

BUNNINGS has taken the first step towards brokering a peace deal with Torquay residents.

The hardware and retail giant has lodged amended plans with the Surf Coast Shire in regard to its planned superstore in the West Coast Business Park.

Bunnings caused a storm of controversy with local residents and business after it was given the okay to erect signage four times the size allowed under the business park's planning permits.

As part of the conditions of building in the park, companies are not permitted to erect signage bigger than 10 square metres. Bunnings, however, indicated it wanted four to five signs 40 to 50sqm each, complete with its logo.

The latest plans, however, show a decrease in the size of the superstore and a decrease in the size of the proposed signage.

The revised plans include:

• Reducing the overall height of the building by 30 per cent

• Reducing the size of signage
• Reducing the overall sales area
• Modifying the awning over the nursery area.

Surf Coast Shire councillor, Rose Hodge, who was one of two councillors - the other being Simon Northeast - who voted against supporting the initial Bunnings signage decision, said she welcomed the change in Bunnings' plans.

"I always welcome when people listen to the community and can change their plans," 

"So congratulations to Bunnings for having the flexibility to change their plans and I thank them for listening to the community.

"However, I am yet to see the plans and I am sure there will be other things we need to look at still."

To assist in the planning process, the plans are on display at www.surfcoast.vic.gov.au or at the Planning Counter at Council's Grossmans Road service centre until Friday, August 6.

Members of the public are free to view the plans and make further comments and submissions on the revised plans until the August 6 deadline.

Bunnings submitted the revised plans in response to community comment on its proposed development.

As a result of the submission of revised plans, council will seek to consider the initial application and revised plans at its monthly meeting on Wednesday, August 25.

All current objections to the application remain in effect unless objectors choose to withdraw them.

Council welcomes comments on the revised plans before Friday, August 6, where comments can be sent to info@surfcoast.vic.gov.au before 5pm on that date.

Meanwhile, a meeting for local businesses will be held tomorrow night in Torquay to further discuss the impact of Bunnings on Torquay.

The meeting - to be held at Jade Chinese Restaurant in Gilbert Street at 6pm - is open to all businesses owners.

Concerned Surf Coast groups and residents to meet to pool resources in a bid to tackle climate change

BY NATHAN HALE

THE FIRST Clean Energy Coast Forum will be held at Anglesea later this month with the aim of establishing a united front in the battle against climate change.

Community groups and individuals from the Surf Coast, Bellarine and Otways will converge on Anglesea's Memorial Hall on Friday, July 30 for a two-hour session.

The forum is the initiative of Liberal candidate for Corangamite, Sarah Henderson, however, the forum steering committee underlined that the session will hold no political alliance whatsoever, with the main focus on community action.

During the forum, the floor will be thrown open to everyone to contribute ideas on how best to utilise clean energy and tackle the threat of climate change on our coastal region.

"We are really lucky in this region to have so many alternate energy choices - and the trick here is to have all these groups together sharing ideas and talking about a common theme," said Simon Pockley, co-chair of Otway Ranges Climate Action (ORCA) and chair of the forum's steering committee.

"It is terrific that we can have this forum happening and up and down the coast we have a number of community groups all striving for a similar outcome.

"So to be able to have a clean energy forum, which is open to everyone, will be a great starting point to see what ideas people and groups have."

Pockley said the forum - which will be held from 3.30pm-5.30pm on July 30 - would act as a sounding board for what step to take next.

Apart from regional community groups, Pockley was also hoping a number of individuals would attend the afternoon session to show their support and put forward any ideas.

The idea of providing a united front to tackle climate change is sure to gain merit - as it would provide not only strength in numbers, but pool resources and the knowledge from each group.

"What has happened is that groups have looked at the different type of clean energy available - from wind, geothermal, solar, wave and tidal," he said.

"But when it comes to looking further into wind power, we have found that groups run into brick walls with planning overlays.

"So that is something the forum can discuss, and hopefully we can look at the whole region from a planning perspective and perhaps get G21 involved."

Along with Pockley, other members of the steering committee include Chris Mason, Strategic Planner with St Quentin Consulting, Andrew Lucas from Eco-Living and Caroline Hawkins, from the Surf Coast Energy Group.

"The primary reason why I have agreed to participate is the need for a regional approach to renewable energy on a scale beyond the capacity of individual councils and groups," said Hawkins.

"The steering committee brings together a group of people with first-class credentials," said Henderson.

"I greatly appreciate the committee's enthusiasm and fully endorse the politically neutral objectives of the forum."

Anyone interested in attending the forum is invited to the Anglesea Memorial Hall on Friday, July 30, from 3.30pm.

Surf Coast Shire responds to recent criticism over its management

BY NATHAN HALE

SURF Coast Shire chief executive officer, Mark Davies, has leapt to the defence of his organisation following a stinging attack from former councillor, Ron Humphrey.

In a letter distributed to various media outlets, Humphrey - who served as a shire councillor from 2004 to 2008 - said the shire should be sacked and a commissioner appointed.

The outspoken Humphrey said "what is clear is that unless this council can live within its means and commit to its promises, time has run out and they should be sacked and a commissioner appointed".

Continuing his outburst, Humphrey believed "it is quite clear the wheels have fallen off council's financial modelling as they are falling into the same problems of their past methodology of not following their SRP (Strategic Resource Plan)".

Humphrey also outlined the shire's past record, which saw it accrue debts of over $12million in 2002. Then, the council avoided being sacked after two inquiries and finances were restored after a strict financial plan and rate rises to 18 per cent.

In taking the unusual step of replying to Humphrey's letter, Davies said "a number of points cannot go without challenge".

"Mr Humphrey makes a number of claims about council's financial position and long-term financial planning that are misleading and untrue," Davies said.

"It is important Surf Coast Shire ratepayers and residents are aware of the facts.

"Each year, council produces a four-year Strategic Resource Plan as a way of guiding its long-term financial commitments and the development of annual budgets.

"These plans are reviewed annually to reflect outside influences and the shire's needs. For example, the global financial crisis in 2009 changed the timing and level of developer contributions paid to council, having a direct impact on the funding sources for the Community and Civic Precinct.

"It would be negligent of council if it did not continually update its long-term financial plans to reflect these and other changed circumstances.

"Contrary to Mr Humphrey's letter, council's 2007 Strategic Resource Plan did include borrowing commitments to fund land acquisition and construction of the Community and Civic Precinct.

"The scope of the project did change in 2007 following the receipt of $4million from the Federal Government toward recreation facilities. This has been reflected in every Strategic Resource Plan since 2008.

"Given these are public documents this fact should not come as a surprise; least of all to Mr Humphrey who was a councillor until November 2008."

Davies also went on to say that council's borrowings in the 2010-2011 budget - which was adopted at last month's council meeting - were "responsible" and that its borrowings strategy continues to be endorsed by the State Government.

To see Mark Davies' letter in full, see Page 5.

Tell us what you think of council's management performance, email Letters to the Editor at editor@surfcoasttimes.com.au

New railway station a boost for Surf Coast commuters

BY NATHAN HALE

RAIL connections from the Surf Coast to Melbourne have received a major boost with State Member for South Barwon, Michael Crutchfield, announcing a new station for the region's newest neighbour, Armstrong Creek.

Crutchfield last week promised the best transport infrastructure for Armstrong Creek, with the new station to sit on the existing railway line between Ghazeepore Road and the Surf Coast Highway.

The sitting member said space has been set aside for a future railway station and that the extension of the Geelong Ring Road between Anglesea Road and the Surf Coast Highway would ensure high-class traffic management and connections.

Add this to the ability to buy a block of land and build a house for just over $300,000, and burgeoning Armstrong Creek continues to grow in popularity.

"This connection will further enhance the benefits of the Ring Road by improving access to the Surf Coast and provide a vital road for the developing Armstrong Creek area," he said.

"The government is taking action to build the right infrastructure for growth to lock in a prosperous future for regional Victoria, including Armstrong Creek, one of the state's key growth corridors.

"The proposed amendment will secure the land necessary for construction of this important transport infrastructure and deliver improved road access that integrates with public transport services by reserving a site for a future railway station at Armstrong Creek.

"It is critical that we reserve space for transport links to meet future demands, whether by car or public transport."

Crutchfield said the proposed Armstrong Creek Railway Station would service the travel needs of the rapidly expanding southern suburbs of Geelong, including the Armstrong Creek Urban Growth Area, Bellarine Peninsula and Surf Coast.

"The new station will provide enhanced access for residents to central Geelong and Melbourne and, as the most westerly station in Geelong, service the Bellarine Peninsula and Surf Coast region," Crutchfield said.

"The station site will accommodate up to 2,500 car parking spaces as well as bus and taxi interchange facilities. On the south side of the railway there is planned space for a local shopping area that integrates with the station and transport interchange.

"The station will be a key contributor to the sustainability of Armstrong Creek and southern Geelong, reducing car use and dependency, traffic congestion and pollution."

An information session will also be held on Wednesday, July 7, from 12pm-8pm at Grovedale Community Centre, 45-47 Heyers Road.

Surf Coast scoops the pool at state awards with Bells Beach named Victoria's best

BY NATHAN HALE

THE SURF Coast Shire has received a huge tourism boost with Bells Beach taking out the State's top prize at last week's Keep Australia Beautiful Victoria Awards.

As competition for the tourist dollar continues to grow, the naming of the iconic Bells as the State's cleanest beach is set to thrust the shire back into the tourism spotlight.

In a memorable night for the region, the shire took home four awards - sharing one with the Bells Beach Advisory Committee - to lead the way at the gala function.

Apart from winning the top award, other awards included:

• Community action: Council and Bells Beach Advisory Committee - Bells Beach
• Pam Keating Environmental Innovation: Council - Bells Beach Coastal Management and Interpretive Plans - Bells Beach
• Towards Zero Waste: Council - Waste Wise Bells - Bells Beach.

Surf Coast Shire Mayor, Libby Coker, welcomed the announcements and said the awards were recognition for a lot of hard work.

"These awards recognise council's concern for the Bells Beach Surfing Reserve," she said.

"Bells Beach is an internationally recognised location and these awards serve to highlight the efforts going into managing this special place."

Coker also took the opportunity to underline that, contrary to recent reported comments, draft management plans currently on public display were designed to ensure a sustainable future for the iconic surfing destination.

"The draft Bells Beach Coastal Management Plan is about finding ways to deal with the risks to the fragile environment of reserve and look after it into the future," she said.

"It is about managing the increasing people pressure it faces.

"The fact that the Surf Coast has won the Environmental Innovation Award for the draft management plan recognises our careful and strategic approach to the management of the reserve.

"We have a responsibility to act. If we do not, Bells Beach Reserve will be further degraded."

Coker encouraged people to comment on the draft plan, which contains recommendations including:

• Developing a licensing scheme to ensure the more-than 30 commercial operators that now use the Bells area contribute to maintenance
• Providing upgraded infrastructure including a renewal of the stormwater systems, toilets at the Winkipop car park, new rubbish bins and landscaping that will preserve vegetation and views from current car parks
• Reconfiguring the Winkipop car park to provide more efficient use of space and provide better, safer access for pedestrians, while preserving views of the surf.

The plan will be on exhibition until Wednesday, June 30.

Michael Crutchfield accepts criticism over lack of information on Torquay schooling

BY NATHAN HALE

MEMBER for South Barwon, Michael Crutchfield, has taken full responsibility for any confusion that may be surrounding the future of schooling in Torquay.

In an honest and open admission, the State member said no blame should be proportioned to Torquay P-9 College; instead, he said any finger pointing should be squarely aimed at him.

Debate has raged over the future of schooling in Torquay, and Crutchfield said parents had every right to voice their concerns over the direction of their children's schooling.

"I acknowledge that there has been a bit of a vacuum, and this has occurred because we have been negotiating with council (to secure the land)," he said.

"We just haven't been able to give any information to parents and I put my hand up.

"I have heard people have been blaming the school (Torquay P-9) and the principal, and that is not right.

"If anyone has any problems with the lack of information they need to come and see me."

The State Government last year announced that Torquay P-9 would be expanded to accommodate Year 12 students - with the school using the existing land where the council offices currently are.

It was also announced that a new primary school would be built just north of Torquay in the shire's Community and Civic Precinct.

Since then, some parents have voiced concern and just last month a new group - Concerned Parents About Torquay Surf Coast Schooling (CPATSS) - was formed.

"The positive part is that we have parents rightfully showing a strong interest in the children's education," he said.

"And that's what makes Torquay such a strong and healthy community... because of the interest and active roles people will take.

"Unfortunately I think there are a couple of people with agendas that don't sit with the broader community.

"I can say that since we made our announcements last year that we have received two complaints saying we made the wrong decision."

Crutchfield will attend a forum organised by CPATSS next Monday night (June 21) at the Spring Creek Reserve clubrooms at 7.30pm.

Crutchfield will form part of a panel that will include Member for Western Victoria Region, David Koch, and Shadow Education Minister, Martin Dixon.

While acknowledging and encouraging parents to voice their concerns, Crutchfield said those looking to push for a change in the future structure of Torquay schooling were wasting their time.

"I always encourage people to have their say," he said.

"But the decision has been made... there is no point going back trying to re-prosecute a case in which a decision was made in August last year."

Michael Crutchfield accepts criticism over lack of information on Torquay schooling

BY NATHAN HALE

MEMBER for South Barwon, Michael Crutchfield, has taken full responsibility for any confusion that may be surrounding the future of schooling in Torquay.

In an honest and open admission, the State member said no blame should be proportioned to Torquay P-9 College; instead, he said any finger pointing should be squarely aimed at him.

Debate has raged over the future of schooling in Torquay, and Crutchfield said parents had every right to voice their concerns over the direction of their children's schooling.

"I acknowledge that there has been a bit of a vacuum, and this has occurred because we have been negotiating with council (to secure the land)," he said.

"We just haven't been able to give any information to parents and I put my hand up.

"I have heard people have been blaming the school (Torquay P-9) and the principal, and that is not right.

"If anyone has any problems with the lack of information they need to come and see me."

The State Government last year announced that Torquay P-9 would be expanded to accommodate Year 12 students - with the school using the existing land where the council offices currently are.

It was also announced that a new primary school would be built just north of Torquay in the shire's Community and Civic Precinct.

Since then, some parents have voiced concern and just last month a new group - Concerned Parents About Torquay Surf Coast Schooling (CPATSS) - was formed.

"The positive part is that we have parents rightfully showing a strong interest in the children's education," he said.

"And that's what makes Torquay such a strong and healthy community... because of the interest and active roles people will take.

"Unfortunately I think there are a couple of people with agendas that don't sit with the broader community.

"I can say that since we made our announcements last year that we have received two complaints saying we made the wrong decision."

Crutchfield will attend a forum organised by CPATSS next Monday night (June 21) at the Spring Creek Reserve clubrooms at 7.30pm.

Crutchfield will form part of a panel that will include Member for Western Victoria Region, David Koch, and Shadow Education Minister, Martin Dixon.

While acknowledging and encouraging parents to voice their concerns, Crutchfield said those looking to push for a change in the future structure of Torquay schooling were wasting their time.

"I always encourage people to have their say," he said.

"But the decision has been made... there is no point going back trying to re-prosecute a case in which a decision was made in August last year."

Armstrong Creek set to provide jobs and investment boom for the region

BY NATHAN HALE

ARMSTRONG Creek has the ability to provide the answer to the region's chronic shortage of housing affordability, according to State Member for South Barwon, Michael Crutchfield.

Speaking following last week's gala unveiling of the final approval for the new suburb's first residential precinct, Crutchfield said Armstrong Creek will provide affordable living in a desirable location.

"Today is a great day for the future growth and prosperity of this region," he said.

"Armstrong Creek will become a highly sought-after location for living, working and recreation.

"The development of Armstrong Creek will also address housing choice and affordability issues in the region and provide community facilities and public transport services."

The Armstrong Creek growth area - which will start just north of the Mount Duneed roundabout - is the largest continuous growth area in Victoria, consisting of 2,500 hectares of developable land and will be home to up to 60,000 people within the decade.

In unveiling the plans last week, Premier John Brumby said Armstrong Creek would provide an injection of jobs and investment never seen before in the region.

More than $3billion in investment and 13,000 jobs will be created through the construction of a major new business precinct and more than 20,000 new homes and community facilities.

"The Geelong, Surf Coast and Bellarine Peninsula region is growing and thriving and our government is making the right investments in transport, in schools and in health services to secure the lifestyles of Victorians living and working in this great part of our state," Brumby said.

"Investments such as moving the TAC to Geelong, the Geelong Ring Road which received a further $76.9 million in this year's State Budget, the Geelong Performing Arts Centre, our support for Ford's Geelong plant and our plans for a second Geelong hospital will drive growth and prosperity in this region.

"Armstrong Creek will become part of the economic and social fabric of the Geelong and Surf Coast region with its own distinct character. It will provide jobs opportunities, boost housing and involve a diverse mix of housing, retail, business and industrial space as well as new natural and cultural features.

"This significant milestone comes ahead of our Regional Blueprint which I will release in coming weeks. This blueprint will set out our government's vision for managing growth in our regions and securing the lifestyles regional Victorians love and want to protect."

Planning Minister, Justin Madden, said he had approved amendments to the City of Greater Geelong Planning Scheme to put in place Precinct Structure Plans which will enable sub-division to commence quickly.

"The first release of land is expected to take place later this year when the first of 500 lots will go on the market," Madden said.

"These masterplans include an extensive network of on and off-road walking and bicycle paths, primary and secondary schools, supermarket, a separate local activity centre and retail and community facilities."

Future growth of Torquay and Jan Juc secured by approval of C37 Amendment

BY NATHAN HALE

THE SURF Coast Shire has been given a glowing endorsement from State Planning Minister, Justin Madden, for its development of strategic studies on the future of the ever-growing township.

In approving Amendment C37 late last week, Madden said the long-term future of Torquay and Jan Juc had been secured.

The ongoing concerns over the fast-paced development of Torquay and Jan Juc could now be forgotten, Madden said, as he approved Amendment C37 to the Surf Coast Planning Scheme to reflect the strategic directions contained in the Torquay and Jan Juc Structure Plan.

"The amendment protects the coastal environment by applying a new Design and Development Overlay along The Esplanade and Ocean Boulevard," Madden said.

"It also protects significant vegetation in the Deep Creek and Bells Boulevard environs as well as remnant Bellarine Yellow Gums, Moonah and other vegetation in residential areas.

"The Surf Coast Shire Council has undertaken a significant amount of work to guide sustainable growth and development of the townships of Torquay and Jan Juc.

"The amendment addresses a range of issues in Torquay and Jan Juc, including car parking, retailing, neighbourhood character, vegetation conservation and urban design.

"It also sets the direction for future growth while protecting the liveability of this important coastal township."

Madden also said Amendment C37 approves council's Structure Plan map, which designates land within the first kilometre west of Duffields Road in Spring Creek Valley as a ‘Future Urban Growth Area'.

"A further amendment will be needed to rezone this land before it can be developed and any further designation of land for future urban growth beyond the first kilometre would need to be established through the Torquay Jan Juc 2040 Project," Madden said

Shire mayor, Libby Coker, said the approval of C37 was reward for the work council had undertaken over the past four years.

The Surf Coast Housing Policy in 2006 was the first of six strategic studies from council in recent times, with the Torquay-Jan Juc 2040 vision the latest directional offering.

"We appreciate minister Madden's approval of amendment C37 and his acknowledgement of the role of Torquay-Jan Juc 2040 Project in determining the future growth of the town," Coker said.

"This approval will ensure that long-term planning in Torquay/Jan Juc responds to the findings of several recent strategic studies, which covered issues including car parking, retailing, neighbourhood character, vegetation conservation and urban design.

"C37 recognises the ongoing challenges of managing growth in coastal townships.

"It provides for policy and controls to manage short and medium term growth whilst responding to character issues and the coastal location."

For further information on Amendment C37, visit www.dpcd.vic.gov.au/planning

Surf Coast Ratepayers Association lobbies government for council funding   

BY NATHAN HALE

SURF Coast Shire has gained sympathy and support from one of the most unlikely sources - the local ratepayers association.

Following last week's shire budget, the Surf Coast Community Ratepayers Association has come out in support of the shire as it faces a testing time ahead with the rapidly growing area.

The shire announced it will borrow $10.26million to fund construction works on the Community and Civic Precinct, which will bring debt to $18.48m.

Although this remains within prudential debt management levels - and while council has set a target of reducing this by $2.5million before 2013/14 - the ratepayers remain concerned at the financial strain on the shire.

In a bid to garner financial support for the shire, the ratepayers association has written to both federal and state governments to see if funding is available.

"We have written to both governments and we have responses saying there is funding available," said association president, Spencer Leighton.

"However, the funding available is on a one-for-one (money matching) basis... and the problem is the shire just can't afford that.

"So we are going to write back and ask the governments if there is any special loan arrangement that can be entered into - at a low percentage rate or even an interest free loan."

Leighton said the requests had been made to the state and federal governments as the association was well aware the shire was struggling financially to cope with the rapid growth of the Surf Coast.

"Look at the conditions the shire employees are working in with the portable buildings," Leighton said.

"That is unacceptable - and they need to be improved. But with everything that is happening and the rapid growth, the shire is just never going to have the chance to get ahead.

"We still have no swimming pool, the roads are never done properly and we haven't got a town hall.

"We just think there should be some help from the government for rapidly growing areas - and that's what we will be asking for."

Last week's budget announced a record $29.2m for new capital works with significant projects across a number of communities.

"Capital works are a centrepiece of this budget as we work to provide the roads, ovals, netball courts, football fields, recycling facilities, paths, open space and other facilities of the future for residents and ratepayers throughout Surf Coast Shire," Mayor, Libby Coker, said.

Additional funding is also provided to boost aged and family services, to provide more maintenance of open space, landscaping, playgrounds and community facilities; as well as additional fire preparation activities.

The shire also announced a 6.9 per cent rate increase, while the municipal charge will rise by $20 per assessment.

The budget also delivers a $12.22million operating surplus, an increase of $5.09million on 2009/10's surplus due mainly to $7.47million of capital grants being received to fund the record capital works programme.

"The coming financial year promises to be an exciting one for the Surf Coast, with the delivery of several important projects across our coastal and hinterland areas," Coker said.

"The budget is all about meeting the needs of our rapidly growing shire and providing the infrastructure and services that are necessary to meet future needs.

"In a time when council incurs rising costs, including in preparing our communities for the threat of bushfire; a five per cent rise in the cost of construction; and as demand for services and infrastructure grows; maintaining financial responsibility is important.

"This budget, while meeting the major challenges our municipality is facing, remains sustainable and responsible."

Copies of the budget are available at www.surfcoast.vic.gov.au/onexhibition.htm

Hard copies can be viewed at council's Grossmans Road service centre; post offices in Anglesea, Aireys Inlet, Lorne and Winchelsea; the Lorne Visitor Information Centre; Deans Marsh and Moriac general stores; the Torquay and mobile libraries and Community Houses in Anglesea, Deans Marsh, Lorne and Winchelsea.

Residents and ratepayers interested in finding out more are invited to attend a Budget Information Session from 6pm-8pm on Thursday, June 3 at the council offices in Grossmans Road.

Surf Coast Shire successful in having West Coast Business Park overlay removed

BY NATHAN HALE

THE COMMUNITY will be able to have its say on any planning applications that come before Surf Coast Shire Council in regard to the West Coast Business Park.

The shire was last week given the answer it was hoping for from Planning Minster, Justin Madden, after they requested a planning amendment on planning applications within the business park.

The positive response from Madden now means that any business submitting a planning application for the park must allow council to advertise the application publicly - should council wish - and that the public will be able to make submissions for or against.

Prior to council requesting the amendment, any business was able to submit a planning application without it needing to be advertised publicly.

The decision - which was made in only a matter of weeks - ensures the business park applications will be open to the community and all processes will be followed as transparently as possible.

Following the announcement, State Member for South Barwon, Michael Crutchfield, said the amendment was a win for the community.

"On behalf of Surf Coast residents I have lobbied Minister Madden hard on this issue and attended a number of meetings with him raising their concerns," Crutchfield said.

"I am sure the Surf Coast community will welcome this decision by the Minister ensuring that they are part of the planning process.

"I believe the Surf Coast community have every right to be involved in the planning process and I encourage local residents to voice their support or concerns.

"When the area was cleared for industrial use and sub-divided there was a specific planning overlay put in place to help do this.

"That process was completed some time ago.

"The minister has removed the now redundant overlay, which allowed for applications to be considered without requiring public notification."

Crutchfield was also quick to move to allay and fears that the Bunnings application - which has already caused much debate around Torquay - would also be subject to these new guidelines.

"Closing this loophole means that Bunnings' application must - like any prospective development - be subject to the normal planning process," he said.

"This statutory process requires assessment periods and of course allows the community to have their say on the proposed development."

Surf Coast Shire Mayor, Libby Coker, who has worked with fellow councilors to ensure any planning applications throughout the shire are as transparent as possible, echoes Crutchfield's thoughts.

She also urged the community to take the opportunity to have its say on applications when they are open for submissions.

"Council firmly believes the community must have a right to inspect and make submissions on planning applications throughout the municipality," Coker said.

"Planning applications must be dealt with in a transparent manner. They must also be seen to be dealt with in a transparent manner," she said.

New hospital and stage 4C of the Ring Road highlight 2010 State Budget projects for the Surf Coast

BY NATHAN HALE

RESIDENTS throughout the Surf Coast will benefit from multi-million dollar health and infrastructre projects announced in last week's State Budget.

More than $110million will be ploughed into two major projects which will have huge impacts on the community throughout the Surf Coast Shire.

Headlining the cash splash from this year's budget is $33.6million for a new hospital.

The hospital has been earmarked for the impending Armstrong Creek development, which means - once completed - vital health services will be available within a 15-minute drive from Torquay and around 30 minutes from Anglesea.

The new hospital will mean those needing emergency services will no longer need to battle central Geelong traffic.

State Member for South Barwon, Michael Crutchfield - who was last week announced as chair of the committee which will oversee the establishment of the new hospital - said it is a huge boost for the region.

"This announcement is great news for families living in this great part of our state," he said.

"The new hospital will ensure families in our region have access to the very best healthcare for generations to come.

"I look forward to working with the community to progressing this project."

The other major budget announcement came in the shape of $76.9million to construct stage 4C of the Geelong Ring Road.

The link will see 4C leave Anglesea Road and follow the existing railway line through the new Armstrong Creek development before joining the Surf Coast Highway.

The new section will join the Surf Coast Highway just south of the railway line at Grovedale, while those looking to travel the Great Ocean Road will be able to continue on Anglesea Road.

Other budget highlights for the Surf Coast include:

• An additional $2,000 for first-time, new home buyers in the region - bringing the total assistant to $26,500

• More police throughout the region as part of a statewide initiative

• A boost to fire preparation and emergency responses

• A $600,000 boost to Lifesaving Victoria to help and support local clubs

As part of the $136.6million fire preparation injection, $500,000 will be used to support 
local councils further develop Neighbourhood Safer Places.

While welcoming the support, Surf Coast Shire Mayor, Libby Coker, said the government needed to make council support a priority in this instance.

"We are pleased the government has announced more support for councils to establish Neighbourhood Safer Places," she said.

"However, council committed more than $230,000 of its own funds on a range of fire preparation activities on public and privately owned land with only $8,000 contributed by the government.

"A greater government contribution to vegetation management is required to ensure residents remain safe during the fire season.

"Given the importance of tourism to the Victorian economy and the obvious community safety imperative, increased support for fire preparation on the Surf Coast is in the whole state's interest.

"We are continuing to seek more support from the Victorian government to ensure we can be better prepared to protect residents and visitors."

See Page 16 for a full local look at the 2010 State Budget.