Introduction - parkweb.vic.gov.au · Web viewAboriginal people, through their rich culture, have...

RRGMP Engagement Summary Report

1 RRGMP Engagement Summary Report

River RedGum

Parks Management

PlanPhase 3

Community Engagement

Summary Report



Acknowledgement of CountryAboriginal people, through their rich culture, have been connected to the land and sea, for tens of thousands of years.

Parks Victoria respectfully acknowledges Aboriginal Traditional Owners, their culture and knowledge, their continuing connections, and cultural obligation, to care for their Country.

PrivacyParks Victoria is committed to protecting privacy and personally identifiable information by meeting our responsibilities under the Victorian Privacy Act 1988 and the Australian Privacy Principles 2014.For the purposes of community engagement for this project, we have collected personal information from individuals, such as email addresses, contact details, demographic data and feedback. This information is stored on secure servers for the duration of our project.Comments provided through submissions marked ‘confidential’ may be used in this report, however are not attributable to any individuals. Diligence is taken to ensure any comment or sensitive information does not become personally identifiable in our reporting.

Community EngagementUnless otherwise stated, all feedback documented in this report was written or recorded during our consultation process,

Definitions‘Parks’ – Parks Victoria manages many sites such as piers, waterways, ports, bays, historic building, trails, urban parks, small conservation reserves, and large national and state parks. For the sake of brevity, these are collectively referred to as ‘parks’, unless a specific type of site is state.

‘Community’ – Community is a broad term used to describe residents, visitors and businesses who have an interest in a project or area. A community may be defined by a geographic location, a set of similar interests such as an industry or sporting club, or a shared sense of identity such as a culture or a generation.

‘Stakeholder’ – Stakeholders are those individuals and organisations who will be directly affected by the management plan. Examples include local governments, other government departments and agencies and local industries such as tourism.

Copyright © Parks Victoria

2018 Level 10, 535 Bourke St,Melbourne VIC 3000

Cover image: River Red Gums

and not the views of facilitators and staff.Parks Victoria staff, together with our partners, have taken great care while transcribing participant feedback. We are confident that we have captured the full range of ideas, concerns of views expressed during consultation.

‘Engagement’ – Engagement refers to aplanned process involving two-way dialoguewith the specific purpose of working withcommunities and stakeholders to encourage discussion or active involvement to inform a project decision.



Contents1. Introduction........................................................................................................................5

Project background......................................................................................................................................................5About this report..........................................................................................................................................................5Report limitations........................................................................................................................................................5Timing..........................................................................................................................................................................6Activity.........................................................................................................................................................................6Planning timeline.........................................................................................................................................................6

2. How we engaged.................................................................................................................7The engagement approach...........................................................................................................................................7Objectives....................................................................................................................................................................7Tools and techniques...................................................................................................................................................8Engagement topics.......................................................................................................................................................8

3. Who responded ....................................................................................................................10Survey respondents ...................................................................................................................................................10Submission respondents ............................................................................................................................................11

4. What we heard .....................................................................................................................12Key messages to Parks Victoria ..................................................................................................................................12About ‘Caring for Culture’ ..........................................................................................................................................13

Key messages ...............................................................................................................................................................13Support for the vision ..................................................................................................................................................13Parks key to cultural survival ........................................................................................................................................13Acknowledging all histories and access .......................................................................................................................13Managing threats to cultural heritage .........................................................................................................................13

About ‘Water for Country’ .........................................................................................................................................14Key messages ...............................................................................................................................................................14Support for the Vision ..................................................................................................................................................14More environmental flows ..........................................................................................................................................14science remains vital ....................................................................................................................................................14Concern about cross tenure water issues ....................................................................................................................14

About ‘Caring for the Environment’ ...........................................................................................................................16Key messages ...............................................................................................................................................................16Pests and weeds the #1 threat .....................................................................................................................................16Support for the Vision ..................................................................................................................................................16Cultural knowledge a valuable addition .......................................................................................................................16

About ‘People in Parks’ ..............................................................................................................................................17Key messages ...............................................................................................................................................................17Waste and lack of awareness the biggest threats to parks ..........................................................................................17



Strong support for the Vision .......................................................................................................................................17Protect Parks for future generations ............................................................................................................................17Keep the community involved .....................................................................................................................................17Keep Dispersed camping ..............................................................................................................................................17Carefully manage camping ...........................................................................................................................................17

About ‘Engaging with Country’ ..................................................................................................................................20Key messages ...............................................................................................................................................................20Lack of education about visit etiquette the #1 issue ....................................................................................................20Support for the vision ..................................................................................................................................................20Protect Traditional Owner knowledge .........................................................................................................................20MAintain current experiences ......................................................................................................................................20Support local partnerships and interest groups ...........................................................................................................20

About ‘Improving our Knowledge’ .............................................................................................................................21Key messages ...............................................................................................................................................................21Lack of research into management effectiveness the #1 issue ....................................................................................21Support for the vision ..................................................................................................................................................21Traditional Owner knowledge should be carefully applied ..........................................................................................21Build knowledge about ecological and cultural values, and visitor use .......................................................................21

5. Next steps ............................................................................................................................22Recommendations and response to community feedback .........................................................................................22

Issue raised ..................................................................................................................................................................22Response ......................................................................................................................................................................22

Process from here ......................................................................................................................................................24



1. Introduction

Parks Victoria is responsible for the management of more than 215,000 hectares of River Red Gum forest in northern Victoria, stretched along the Murray, Goulburn and Ovens river corridors.A draft plan for the future management of this vast stretch of land has recently been developed, and tested, with the community.The response from community and stakeholders is outlined within this report.

Project backgroundThe River Red Gum Parks Management Plan (RRGMP) is a strategic guide for managing and protecting five national parks, and more than 100 other parks and reserves that comprise the planning area in norther Victoria. The plan follows on from work conducted by VEAC into Victoria’s River Red Gum forests between 2005 and 2008.The area covered by the plan represents a diverse range of species and ecosystems on both floodplains and river banks extending from the South Australian border to the peaks of the Warby Ranges, near Wangaratta.The area includes parks such as Gunbower, Hattah-Kulkyne, Lower Goulburn and Warby-Ovens National Parks, part of theMurray-Sunset National Park,Leaghur State Park, Gasden Bend, Kings Billabong, Murray-Kulkyne and Nyah-Vinifera Parks, and the proposed Murray River Park.The plan has sought a balanced approach – focusing on protecting and enhancing the outstanding natural and cultural values of the parks and reserves, while allowing for recreation and tourism compatible with the protection of those values.

About this reportThis report presents the broad range of values, ideas and aspirations provided by community members and stakeholder during the engagement period, from August to October 2017.Parks Victoria would like to thank the participants – who generously shared their time and ideas through the engagement process.

Report limitationsSeveral factors influenced the engagement methodology and analysis of the findings, and should be considered in reading this report. These include:

• The information in this report is based on qualitative research and does not necessarily reflect the views of a representative sample of the community.

• This report summarises key feedback from participants, full details of feedback has been assessed separately.

• The information and views presented in this report have not been independently validated. It is a summary of opinions, perceptions and feedback provided to us across the engagement activities. As such, information included in this report may be factually inaccurate or unfeasible.

• Due to the variety of formats in which feedback has been received, not all participant demographics have been captured for all feedback.

• Participants did not have to respond to all sections of the draft plan, as such, feedback is primarily focused on themes of camping, recreation and



access – in the ‘People in Parks’ section.



Planning timelineThe following tables shows the planning and community engagement process undertaken throughout this project to date. The current stage of the planning timeline, ‘Analysis of submissions’, is shaded.

Timing ActivitySummer 2015/16

Roving RangersVisitors in the parks were able to discuss issues with local rangers over the summer holiday period

2016 Registration of interestGroups and individuals could register their details to receive regular updates on the planningprocess and how to be involved.

February 2016

Community information sheetsA series of information sheets covering key management themes were made available to download via the Parks Victoria website. Community feedback was encouraged via email to the project team.

April 2016

Community Open House MeetingsA series of community drop-in session were undertaken to allow community and groups to drop in to discuss issues with Parks Victoria staff. Dates and venues were promoted through local newspapers and via the website.

Mid-2016 Review of community feedbackThe input received from the community and groups was carefully considered to inform thedevelopment of the draft plan.

Early-2017 Draft plan is developedWriting and further research is undertaken to develop the draft management plan.

July 2017

Call for submissionsThe draft management plan is released, and Parks Victoria calls for submission from community and groups. The plan was available for comment for 60 days, and the public was invited to make written submissions on the plan. An on-line survey was also made available with a number of questions on each section of the draft plan.

December 2017

Analysis of submissionsSubmissions on the draft plan and responses to the survey are carefully considered in preparing the final plan.

Early 2018 Final plan is developedWriting and further research is undertaken to develop the draft management plan

July 2018

Release of final planFinal plan is written, approved by the Board & Minister, and released.

Approach and

description

Engagement

level

Tools and

techniques

1. General communications Print and digital communications released inorder to create awarenessof the project and communicate its progress.

Inform • Project website• Factsheets• Social media• Signage Boards• Posters• Postcards

2. Stakeholder engagementInforming stakeholders of the release of the plan, making copies available, and providing different ways to submit.

Consult • Project website• Letters/emails

inviting submissions• Submission survey• Submission guide• Posted copies of

the draft plan

3. Community engagementInforming previous participants and registered individuals and groups of the release of the plan, making copies available, and providing different ways to submit.

Consult • Project website• Letter/emails to

registered individuals and groups

• Submission survey• Submissions• Posted copies of

the draft plan



2. How we engaged

The engagement approachBuilding on previous engagement with community and stakeholder, this engagement focused on informing people of the release of the draft management plan, and inviting submissions through a mix of channels.

ObjectivesThe purpose of this engagement phase was to share the draft management plan with community and stakeholders, and to invite submissions. The following objectives were included in the engagement planning for this project:

Park users, key stakeholders, local residents and community will:• Be aware of the RRG

Management Plan process and timeline

• Participate in engagement methods appropriate to their needs

• Receive relevant information that assists them to make informed submissions into the draft RRG Park Management Plan

• Be aware of the opportunities and challenges in managing RRG Parks

• Support the final RRG Park Management Plan

Parks Victoria staff will:• Be aware of the RRG

Management Plan process and timeline

• Be aware of their role and required capacity for this program

• Receive relevant information that assists them to represent Parks Victoria throughout the engagement program (and until the final RRG Park Management Plan is completed)

• Be able to confidently communicate consistent messages about the opportunities and challenges in managing RRG Parks

• Support the final RRG Park Management Plan



Tools and techniquesA range of engagement tools and techniques were used to provide different types of opportunities for stakeholders and community to have their say. The main tools and techniques are explained in further detail below:

Project website (Aug 2017 – Ongoing)

Online project page designed to share relevant project information, download a copy of the plan or supporting documents, and to encourage submissions via an online survey, or contact the project team.

Letters / Emails to stakeholders and community (August 2017)

Based on available contact details, more than 620 letters and/or emails were distributed to registers community members or groups, and other stakeholders with a relationship to the project. These letters provided information on the release of the draft plan for comment and how to provide a submission or access the draft management plan. Some of these letters were distributed together with a hard copy of the draft plan.

Online submission survey (Aug – Oct 2017)

An online survey tool was used to help community and stakeholder provide a structured response to the draft plan. This survey included questions about the participant, their connections to the River Red Gum parks, and then a series of questions related to each topic area.

Submissions (Aug – Oct 2017)

Submissions were encouraged from all participants. These were received in a variety of formats, written, digital via email or word document.

Community Drop In sessions (Sept 2017)

Parks Victoria held community drop in sessions in Echuca, Shepparton, Mildura and Cobram to talk about the draft plan to the community.

Engagement topicsBased on feedback from Phase 1 engagement, we identified eight topic areas to help community and stakeholders comment on the breadth of values, issues and opportunities present in the Belfast Coastal Reserve.While participants were invited to focus their responses on the areas in the plan most relevant to them, prompting questions invited comments on all topics.Topics included:

Caring for culture

Water for Country

Caring for the Environment

People in Parks

Engaging with Country

Improving our Knowledge


3. Who responded

Survey respondentsA total of 77 online surveys were received from participants during the engagement period.Of these, the majority (87 per cent) were made by individuals. 10 surveys (13 per cent) were completed on behalf of organisations.Nearly two-thirds (65 per cent) of surveys were completed by men, with a further fifth (21 per cent) completed by females, and the remainder (14 per cent) completed by organisations or participants who did not wish to specify their gender.63 participants (82 per cent) had not attended one of the previous community open houses. Of the 14, Shepparton was the most represented, with 5 attendees.The spread of ages across survey participants shows the highest proportion at age 30-49, followed by the 50-69-year-old cohort.Participant postcode data shows a spread of participants across the planning area, as well as a number of responses from the Melbourne metropolitan area.

Organisation 13%

Other / Rather not say 14%

Survey Type

Gender

Individual 87%

Female 21%

Participant age ranges

N/A 10

70+ 3

50-69 22

30-49 31

16-29 10 Male 65%

Under 16 1


Submission respondents

mage: postcode data from surveys

Submissions

A total of 97 submissions were received during the engagement period, including 45 (46 per cent)from individuals and 52 (54%) made on behalf of organisations.A diverse range of organisations provided submissions, including management authorities, government bodies and departments, recreation and interest groups, business and traditional owner groups.The names of individuals and organisations who provided submissions, and who did not elect to make these ‘confidential’, will be published in the final plan.Of the 97 submissions, 20 per

cent utilised the submission guide template, and the rest comprised free-form letters (41 per

cent) and emails (39 per cent).


Letter 41%Email 39%

Template 20%


4. What we heard

Key messages to Parks VictoriaThe following outlines the key issues and opportunities we heard from engagement in this phase.

We support the visions associated with each chapter

Ensure that you acknowledge all histories and cultures related to the land

We encourage you to strengthen partnerships, collaboration, community involvement and awareness

Improve visitor awareness of parks and acceptable behaviours to make recreation and use more sustainable for future generations

Keep dispersed camping

Carefully manage camping, fires, dogs and litter

More science and research remain vital to management

Pests and weeds are the #1 threat that we must get on top of

Traditional Owner knowledge a valuable addition to interpretation and management


About ‘Caring for Culture’In ‘Caring for Culture’, Parks Victoria acknowledges the importance of protecting Aboriginal heritage. This involves, in part, further work to monitor and interpret cultural site, directing visitors away from sensitive places, changing some

SUPPORT FOR THE VISIONMore than half (56 per cent) of survey participants supported the proposed vision for ‘Caring for Culture’.

heritage, and restrictions placed on access and use in the parks.

‘What about my cultural connection to this land?’

‘Parks need to keep out of all Australian Bush and native systems. Constantly putting restrictions on

visitor practices, improving visitorinformation and investigating the formal use of appropriate Aboriginal or local names for features, places, roads and tracks, or parks.The post-colonial settlement heritage will continue to be recognised and respected through further information and interpretation, and identification and protection of priority heritage places and areas.A total of 25 survey participants and 5 submissions provided feedback on ‘Caring for Culture’.

KEY MESSAGES

Do not support atall

20%

Slightly oppose

8%

Neither support nor oppose 16%

PARKS KEY TO CULTURAL SURVIVAL

Stronglysupport

24%

Support32%

what can and can’t be done in publicland is unacceptable’

MANAGING THREATS TO CULTURAL HERITAGEParticipants told us that vandalism is the biggest perceived threat to cultural heritage sites, with 32 per cent of responses. This was followed closely by off-road 4WD and trail biking (25 per cent).Increasing visitor awareness was the most commonly perceived way to minimise impacts, with 40 per cent of responses. This was followed by increased penalties

Support for the vision

Parks key to cultural survival

Acknowledge all histories

Vandalism is the #1 threat

Visitor awareness is vital

Participants supportive of the vision talked about the importance of parks for both the significant ancient and contemporary sites they contain.

‘[National Parks] hold the key to cultural survival’

Protection of these was an important theme in the supportive responses – through changing patterns of behaviour and use, or education rather than restrictions.

‘People should be educated on how to use these areas respectfully… restrictions only make small rural towns suffer more than they do now’

ACKNOWLEDGING ALL HISTORIES AND ACCESSThere was support for the separate strategies in the draft plan to acknowledge both pre- and post-colonial

timelines.However, a common theme across some responses was concern about the loss of colonial


(26 per cent).


About ‘Water for Country’In ‘Water for Country’, the plan identifies the importance of flooding and effective water management to the health of the River Red Gums.The ‘Water for Country’ chapter acknowledges both water for environmental flows, and water

SUPPORT FOR THE VISIONMore than two-thirds (68 per cent) of survey participants supported the proposed vision for ‘Water for Country’.

Strongly

It was felt that control of water should remain in the hands of existing management authorities.

‘Water control should be the concern of catchment management authorities and environmental science bodies.’

for Traditional Owner culturalpractices – or ‘cultural flows’.A total of 23 survey participants and 9 submissions provided feedback on ‘Water for Country’.

KEY MESSAGESSupport for the vision

Watering regimes are the#1 threat to water

Strengthen partnerships, collaboration and community awareness

support 39%

Do not support at all

13% Slightly…

Support 35%

Neither support

nor o

ppose…

Support for Traditional Ownersmanagement of water was mixed.Nearly one-third (32 per cent) of participants were strongly opposed to the idea, however, a total of 41 percent of participants supported the strategy.

‘All management should be science based not colloquial or assumptions. The traditional owners have no expertise in water management if anything they rely on an environment that existed 200 years ago.

Participants were supportive of strategies to strengthen

More environmental flows

Science remains vital

Concern about cross tenure water issues

MANAGING THREATS TO WATERInappropriate watering regimes were seen at the biggest threat (31 per cent) to access to water for parks, rivers and wetlands. This was closely followed by: Poor coordination between water management agencies (24 per cent), and too many competing uses for water (22 per cent).

MORE ENVIRONMENTALFLOWSParticipants were broadly supportive of return to more natural flow of water through the system – including the seasonal cycles of filling and drying.More than 85 per cent of responses supported this strategy.

‘The connection of the whole of Murray River water connection under the Living Murray and MDBC plans needs to ensure regulation is given equal status for protection and promotion of watering regimes that emulate natural flows’

‘I hope part of the water strategy is recognition that places like the Hattah Lakes have previously existed with a cycle of filling and drying. Keeping some of the lakes full just to support recreation is not appropriate and where possible the flooding and drying should be aligned with seasonal water flows’.

SCIENCE REMAINS VITALSome participants expressed concern that cultural flows represented a departure from evidence-based or scientific management of

water.


partnership with agencies (77 percent), better engagement with agencies and the state government (77 per cent), and building stronger community awareness (68 per cent).

CONCERN ABOUT CROSS TENURE WATER ISSUESFeedback also talked about the impacts of stronger water management and farming practices.

‘This country has floods and droughts this isn't going to change that and unless you stop farming there still won't be enough water to go around. You can't change how it is unless you close down farming’

‘The goals are clear cut. You want to control water flows. You also have made it clear that you want less water for farming.’

‘Target the people and things that are actually impacting these problems. Example; massive irrigation companies draining the river for crop irrigation. Even draining the environmental flows unrestricted and without penalties.’


About ‘Caring for the Environment’In ‘Caring for the Environment’, the plan address strategies for protecting the natural values of parks and reserves within the planning area – particularly against the threat of changing patterns of water flows and use.This chapter looks at targeting

SUPPORT FOR THE VISIONNearly three quarters (70 per cent) of participants supported the proposed vision for ‘Caring for the Environment’.

Strongly

to be controlled. They are no more acceptable in protected parks or reserves than pigs or goats. Provide adequate education to the general public about the issues surrounding feral horses.’

I think Yielima has a big problem with the feral animals, and a lot

invasive pests and weeds, programs and collaborative partnerships, and using a combination of Aboriginal and scientific knowledge to enhance the environment and manage fire risks.A total of 20 survey participants and 25 submissions provided feedback on ‘Caring for the Environment’.


support 35%

Slightly o

ppose 10%

Support 35%

Neither support

nor oppose 20%

more access [for Traditional Owners]is needed there if possible.’

CULTURAL KNOWLEDGE A VALUABLE ADDITIONParticipants were mixed in their support for the incorporation of Traditional Owner knowledge into management practices.As with responses in the previous two chapters, support for the initiative focused on the value of retaining and promoting traditional ways of understanding

Pests and weeds the #1 threat

Feral animals a growing problem

Cultural knowledge a valuable addition

PESTS AND WEEDS THE #1 THREATThe threat of foxes and cats received the most survey responses for this chapter, with nearly 25 per cent, and existing and invading weeds received 22 per cent of the vote as a threat to natural values. Of note, impacts of recreations – camping and damage to riverbanks was viewed as a very low threat, with 5 per cent and 6 per cent respectively.Unsurprisingly, participants felt that the most acceptable actions to help protect natural values included weed control programs with CMAs (23 per cent), and reducing the impacts of feral animals (22 per cent).

FERAL ANIMALS A GROWING PROBLEMParticipants highlighted the issue of feral animals in the River Red Gum parks.

‘Pests have overrun our parks, pushing natives out.’

A number of responses recommended providing more access for hunters to help manage feral population numbers. and lessening the reliance on hunting.

‘I have issues with the lack of pest animal control along the Goulburn river and parts of the Murray River Systems. We have the capability to assist in the control of fox, pig, goat and deer populations in this section of Victoria. Bating and trapping alone will not reduce hello the vermin population, shooting needs to be added as a tool to reduce numbers of predatory and large herbivores to help stem the impact on the rivers environment.’

Some however, suggested more active management by Parks Victoria, and a focus on education, working with neighbouring properties, and Traditional Owners.

‘Please include feral horses in the pest animals/introduced herbivores

and using the land.

‘Recognition of traditional knowledge is fundamental in preserving and enhancing Traditional Owners culture and preservation of Country…Victoria has an obligation under international covenants to promote, protect and utilise Indigenous knowledge. It provides continuation of life and culture of First Nation People of their country.’


About ‘People in Parks’In ‘People in Parks’, the plan focuses on the ongoing use of the River Red Gum parks for tourism, recreation and camping.The plan looks at better control of access to and through parks, formalising some camping sites and facilities and supports the continuation of dispersed camping. It also looks at public safety, the role of campfires and firewood collection, managing waste, dispersed camping, camping with dogs, and hunting.A total of 23 survey participants and 63 submissions provided feedback on ‘People in Parks’.

KEY MESSAGESStrong support for the

skiers on the Murray are quite happy to toss their rubbish in the water.’

STRONG SUPPORT FOR THE VISIONThe vision for ‘People in Parks’ was supported by 87 per cent of participants, with 61 per cent in strong support, and the remaining 26 per cent in support.

Strongly support 61%

Support

implementation of all areas of the National Parks. That Aboriginal People are provided with training and permanent employment with National Parks as a priority for the implementation of these recommendations. This should also be afforded to the towns and communities that are living alongside National Parks.’

‘Support local communities by helping to encourage accommodation and other tourism services and facilities outside, but near to the park, this is when the park really becomes valuable to the local community.’

KEEP DISPERSED CAMPINGCommunity emphasised the need to ensure a continued dispersed

vision

Waste and lack of awareness are the biggest threats to parks

Neither support

nor oppose13%

26% camping offer is provided withmixed views about introducing fees.

‘Forests are slowly being taken away

Protect parks for future generations

Keep the community involved

Keep disbursed camping

Carefully manage camping

WASTE AND LACK OF AWARENESS THE BIGGEST THREATS TO PARKSThe top three most identified threats to parks included: rubbish left by recreational users and campers (22 per cent); visitors unaware of the impacts of their actions (21 per cent); and domestic and industrial waste dumped in some locations (21 per cent).

‘Greater fines for people found dumping rubbish, littering and vandalising.’

‘We are sticklers for keeping the camp site pristine for other campers to enjoy. This includes cleaning up after our dogs. I noted how many

PROTECT PARKS FOR FUTUREGENERATIONSParticipants were supportive of an approach that protected these special places, for future generations to enjoy.

‘The vision statement is spot on… many successive generations return continually.’

‘Add something around visitation being sustainable for future generations’.

‘Use of the parks and other protected areas must always be second to protection of the ecosystems themselves, despite the value of the connections people make with these places.’

KEEP THE COMMUNITY INVOLVEDEnsuring a continued connection to the land was emphasised in several important ways – including support for both local Traditional Owners groups as well as the broader community.

‘Traditional owners need to be

part of the management planning and


and people are excluded from theseareas. A healthy forest is a well-used forest. Don't restrict what makes camping so special.’

‘If you want commercialism, do it on private land. Once fees are introduced the parks become exclusive.’

CAREFULLY MANAGE CAMPINGAccess, equity and fees were among the most common themes relating to camping. There were a mix of comments both supporting freedom for campers, and a more structure and controlled approach to encourage good behaviour.

‘Freedom campers are the life blood for tourism along the Murray River’

‘Unfortunately, a lot of people set up their camp sites way too spread out or set up dummy tents for their friends and this makes it impossible for everybody to enjoy this space.’

‘Possibly by setting up fees, could be a better idea, but how would you work out who gets a site and who doesn't?’

‘I also suggest providing adequate resources and funding, and that you should consider a recreational


camping licence that works in a similar way to the recreational fishing licence.’

The poor behaviour of inexperienced or ill-informed campers was also a common theme – particularly around fire and safety, and litter.

‘I am finding campers are lighting fires when it is an inappropriate time, with a higher risk fire day or ona day of total fire ban is. As much as I would not like to see this happen, Ifeel there should be a blanket ban on campfires from 1st December until 28 February, this way there would be no confusion about when a campfire could be lit.’

’There is also a large contingent of people coming from metropolitan areas who don’t understand the impacts of their visitation, at least making them visit an online site to obtain a licence may mean that they read the guide and understand their responsibilities.’

Proposed restrictions on camping with dogs received some

comments from concerned park users – contrasted with other comments on the bad behaviour of uncontrolled dogs.

‘Dogs, some vicious, some just annoying have been reported. Lots of complaints of dogs allowed to roam free through various camp sites.’

‘I find it really sad that slowly bit by bit the right to free camp with our dogs is being outlawed. There are so many people whose dog is a member of their family and pose no threat to wildlife. The people I have seen are usually responsible dog owners who keep their dogs tethered or at the very least have voice control over their pets. I have camped with my dog for many years… surely we should be allocated somewhere along the proposed area to take our dogs.’


About ‘Engaging with Country’In ‘Engaging with Country’, the plan identifies the important role of these parks and reserves in community health and personal wellbeing – through understanding and appreciating the River Red Gum environment, culture and history.This chapter proposes improving both on-site and digital content, as well as providing further opportunities for interpretation programs, community-based programs and direct park ranger contact.A total of 18 survey participants and 19 submissions provided feedback on ‘Engaging with Country’.


Lack of education about visit etiquette the #1 issues

Protect Traditional Owner knowledge

Maintain current experiences

Support local partnership and interest groups

LACK OF EDUCATION ABOUT VISIT ETIQUETTE THE #1 ISSUEParticipants told us that the biggest risk to retaining and enhancing community connections to, and understanding of, the land was a lack of visitor knowledge about appropriate behaviours (25 per cent of votes). This focused on common themes listed in ‘People in Parks’ such as camp fires, vehicle use and litter.

The second largest issues (as 23 per cent of the votes) was the lack of information in parks about the natural and cultural values, and uses.

SUPPORT FOR THE VISIONNearly three-quarters (72 per cent) of participants supported or strongly supported the vision for ‘Engaging with Country’. 28 per cent of responses were either neutral (17 per cent), or opposed to the vision (11 per cent).

Strongly support17%

Support55%

Do not support at

all 11%


PROTECT TRADITIONAL OWNER KNOWLEDGESome participants told us that it is important to incorporate Traditional Owner knowledge into parks, education and interpretation. This knowledge and its ownership, however, must be protected through appropriate legal instruments and protocols.

MAINTAIN CURRENT EXPERIENCESA few comments relating to this and other chapters asked for no change to the current experiences in the parks. For some this was a means to limit its use just to locals, to prevent further restrictions on access, or in response to concerns that an increased role by Traditional Owners might also change access and usage for pre-existing users.

‘Certainly educate, but there are enough empowered people already.’

SUPPORT LOCAL PARTNERSHIPS AND INTEREST GROUPSOf the strategies presented within this chapter, participants most strongly supported the strategy to ‘Improve understanding of interest group aspirations and work in partnership to link with monitoring and other management programs and share knowledge’. This strategy received 47 per cent of the votes in strong support, and 29 per cent in support.


About ‘Improving our Knowledge’In ‘Improving our Knowledge’, the plan looks at ongoing research, monitoring and evaluation within the parks and reserves in order to understanding and address the threats and opportunities present on the land.

SUPPORT FOR THE VISIONA total of 70 per cent of responding participants supported or strongly supported the vision for ‘Improving our Knowledge’.

Research includes a focus on key information gaps, and understanding the priorities and threats against nine themes including: water and flooding; flora, fauna and ecological processes; geology and geomorphology; fire; invasive species; climate change; visitors; Aboriginal heritage; and post- colonisation heritage.A total of 20 survey participants and 22 submissions provided feedback on ‘Engaging with

Stronglysupport

25%

Do not support at all

5% Slightly

oppose

5%

Support45%


Country’.


Lack of research into management effectiveness the #1 issue

Traditional Owner knowledge should be carefully applied

Build knowledge about ecological and cultural values, and visitor use

LACK OF RESEARCH INTO MANAGEMENT EFFECTIVENESS THE #1 ISSUEParticipants told us that the biggest issue for ‘Improving our Knowledge’ was a lack of knowledge around management effectiveness, including invasive species control techniques. This issue received 26 per cent of the total votes, and was followed by the lack of resourcing for research and monitoring activities (17 per cent).

TRADITIONAL OWNER KNOWLEDGE SHOULD BE CAREFULLY APPLIEDParticipants told us that there is an important marriage between traditional and scientific knowledge, and that both can work together if carefully applied. This also present new opportunities for jobs and training within local Aboriginal communities.

‘There needs to be created pathways for Aboriginal people especially young people in the studies and exploration of scientific research that incorporates traditional knowledge with modern technologies.’

BUILD KNOWLEDGE ABOUT ECOLOGICAL AND CULTURAL VALUES, AND VISITOR USEMore than two-thirds (67 per cent) of responses supported or strongly supported this strategy. This aligns with feedback in the other chapters, around understanding the current user behaviours and impacts,


managing pests and weeds, and building our understanding of the cult

ural assets within these parks and reserves.


5. Next steps

Recommendations and response to community feedbackThe following is a summary of the specific recommendations made across submissions and survey responses, together with a response from Parks Victoria (where appropriate) on changes to the plan which will be investigated. This feedback has been grouped according to the most relevant theme, as most of the issues fell within the ‘People in Parks’ chapter.Please note: whilst this is a more detailed summary of specific feedback, some feedback has been considered, but not included – due to privacy or the very specific nature of some submissions.

ISSUE RAISED RESPONSERoads and Tracks Public response supported better track maintenance and

improving the condition of tracks. Concern was raised that access be maintained at the current level.

Access will be maintained with a priority to providing safe visitor access and emergency response. Any proposed changes will be discussed with user groups and emergency services, such as CFA, as well local Shires and VicRoads.Recreational boating

There was support for improved access to rivers, including vehicle tracks, ramps and other infrastructure.

Some clarification was sought regarding motorised boating on the Goulburn River and Lower Ovens River.

Plan supports better facilities for boating.

Motorised boating will continue to be permitted on the Goulburn River and Lower Ovens River, but will be subject to a speed limit to restrict the use of jet skis and wake boats.

Camping Four issues were raised – dispersed camping

opportunities, fees, bookings and securing camping opportunities. Submissions generally support improved management of camping with support for designating areas and introducing bookings. There was, however, also some opposition.

Parks Victoria will maintain dispersed camping. Day visitor’s sites are introduced close to towns. 3 sites will be upgraded to campgrounds with accompanying facilities and bookings during peak times. This may include fees.

Campfires A summer campfire ban was discussed in several

submissions even though the possibility was not raised in the draft management plan. There was an even number of submission supporting a ban as those opposing one. Victoria is the only state or territory within Australia that allows campfires during the declared fire danger period.

Campfires will continue to be permitted throughout the fire danger period. NSW regulations, which prohibit campfires, will operate in NSW areas on the southern bank of the Murray River.

Dogs There was public support for maintaining the area as

open for dogs. Concerns was raised about the lack of control some visitors had over their dogs.

No change is proposed; dogs will continue to be allowed provided they are on a lead and under control in regional parks and other reserves.

Hunting Hunting at Merbein Common was recognised as an issue.

The proposed resolution of hunter education was opposed as neither suitable nor viable.

A more detailed investigation and consultation is being undertaken by DELWP.

Toilets All submissions on this topic criticised the plan for failing

to deal with the issue of toileting in Murray River camping areas and the disposal of toilet waste.

Investigate the value of providing toilet facilities at locations where high use has been identified and where the impact of human waste is having a detrimental impact on the environment.

Visitor waste There was a strong feeling that the ‘carry in carry out’

approach to waste was not working Continue to implement and promote Parks Victoria’s

‘carry in, carry out’ approach to litter management and work with local councils and waste management groups to develop strategies for managing litter.

Tourism The Murray River Adventure Trail and an RV trail along

the Murray River were well received. Both initiatives are supported.


Process from hereThis summary and further data from the engagement process will be assessed along with other relevant information by the planning team.The team will then finalise the River Red Gum Parks Management, refining the vision, goals, definitions and areas for the parks and reserves within the planning area, the values we are seeking to protect and enhance, and the uses and activities that do not impact those values.The final plan will be released after the plan has been received and endorsed by the Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change.All participants will be notified when the final plan is released.



More informationParks Victoria 13 1963www.parks.vic.gov.au ISBN: 978-1-920789-01-5

Authorised and published by Parks Victoria L10, 535 Bourke Street, Melbourne VIC 3000 Copyright © Parks Victoria 2017

If you would like to find out more about Victoria’s parks but need some help with English, we can assist. All of Parks Victoria’s Information Centre operators are trained to use telephone interpreters and will be happy to take your telephone call.

If you are deaf, or have a hearing or speech impairment, contact us through the National Relay Service on 133 677 or visit www.relayservice.com.au

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