A “balanced plan” you say?

CLEARLY the opinion of at least two foreshore committee members is that views are their top priority, while the other suggests previous mismanagement of the foreshore, (Sentinel Times: January 23, p.5) despite the fact that the previous committee contracted expertise to outline a comprehensive plan for appropriate vegetation management of the foreshore (Vegetation Management Plan 2020-24 Oates and Frood). 

This important document is not referenced by the current committee. The landscape plan is not reflective of the 60 per cent of survey respondents who regarded “protection and enhancement of native vegetation to be of the highest priority” (ranked above those who sought water views). 

In addition, DEECA agrees with this protection saying, “State government policy supports this response, and the reserve will be managed in compliance with native vegetation policy.” Adding, “striking a balance between water views, access, aesthetics, and native vegetation management will require careful and considered planning at a greater detail than the landscape plan can provide for” (How

Community Engagement influenced Corinella Foreshore Reserve Landscape Management Plan 2022).

How far has DEECA strayed since then? There are many who wish to be further 
enlightened on this “balanced plan”. We ask that the Corinella Foreshore Committee of Management, and DEECA fulfil their accountability requirements to the community, by holding a public meeting to explain their plan further, clarify points of difference, and openly discuss any concerns before any works commence on the foreshore. 

Alison Normanton, Corinella