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Mansfield Shire Council

Environment Strategy

2019-2023

Acknowledgements

Mansfield Shire Council acknowledges the Taungurung Traditional Custodians of the land on which the Council operates. We pay respects to Elders, past present and emerging and recognise the valuable contribution they

have made to this Environment Strategy.

The task of developing the Strategy involved many stakeholders and community members and without their input,

this document would not have been truly reflective of the Mansfield region. The Mansfield Shire Council

acknowledges and thanks all involved.

Cover photo: Lake Eildon at Bonnie Doon, Brad McSweeney

Artwork: Michelle Monk

Treat the land with respect and the land in turn will

look after you - Taungurung Clans

VISION:

Working together to protect and enhance the natural

environment

Council Foreword

Environment Strategy summary

Strategic context Council Taungurung Traditional Owners Our Region – Assets and Challenges

Aspirations and strategy Focus Area 1: Waste Focus Area 2: Water Focus Area 4: Land Focus Area 3: Sustainable Development

Monitoring and evaluation

Appendix 1: Overview of consultation

Appendix 2: Summary of endangered and vulnerable species

Contents

Photo: Australian Reed-warbler at Mullum Wetlands, Lachlan Read

Photo: Gang-gang cockatoo, Steve Wilson

Council’s Foreword Welcome to the Mansfield Shire Council’s Environment Strategy. This Strategy is a statement of Council’s intention and commitment to improve our natural environment at an organisational level and reflects the aspirations of our community for action. The four focus areas of our strategy are waste, water, land and sustainable development. Each focus areas presents both challenges and opportunities for our natural environment. These challenges for our natural environment are amplified with climate change. Mansfield Shire Council acknowledges that climate change is a real threat to our community’s way of life. For Council, we seek to significantly reduce emissions from our own operations and work with stakeholders to support community in climate change action. This Strategy also identifies actions that you, as community members, can undertake to support Council’s efforts to protect and enhance our natural environment. Finally, thank you to the community members and agency stakeholders who were involved in developing this Environment Strategy. Through your contribution, collaboration and commitment we now have a Strategy we can all be proud of. We look forward to continuing to work in partnership with our community to make this work a reality.

Photo: Tree planting at Jamieson, Kerstie Lee

Artwork: Michelle Monk

Environment Strategy summary

Mansfield Shire is fortunate to have breathtaking natural beauty. Our clean water, fertile soil and diverse environment

are the foundation of our economic development, community liveability and individual wellbeing. But our environment

is under severe pressure from climate change and unsustainable development. In this context, over 150 people from

across the Shire shared their insights on what we, as a community, must do to protect our most important natural assets.

The summary of our consultation process is in Appendix 1.

This Environment Strategy sets out the action that must be taken now to combat these challenges, to protect, promote

and rejuvenate our natural environment. It will guide Council’s decision-making, so that future generations can continue

to enjoy the living world around us.

Vision: Working together to protect and enhance the natural environment

Strategic context Council This Environment Strategy will guide Council in setting

environmental policies and priorities for implementation.

Our commitment to the environment is significant and

real. We understand economic growth, human

wellbeing and a sustainable future in our region are

intimately connected. By protecting and enhancing the

environment, we are promoting the wellbeing of

individuals and communities.

The Strategy sets out our focus for the next four years;

waste, water, land and development. Council will be a

leader in policy and advocacy and work to support

businesses, communities and federal/state agencies to

ensure our goals are met.

History Mansfield Shire Council’s previous Environment

Strategy was formally endorsed by Council in 2012.

The strategy was supported by the Mansfield Shire

Environment Action Plan 2013-2017, which focussed on

three key areas: the control of pest plants and animals,

wastewater management and roadside conservation

and management.

In 2015, Council undertook a review that resulted in

additional priority areas being added for implementation

including: implement biodiversity initiatives, implement

the Great Victorian Rail Trail management initiatives and

develop a project management checklist. However, the

introduction of rate capping in 2016 significantly reduced

Council’s capacity to fund new initiatives.

In 2017, Council adopted a new Council Plan outlining a

number of priorities for 2017-2021, some of which are

specifically related to the environment including:

Review the Mansfield Shire Environment Strategy to

ensure its ongoing relevance and actions for

implementation.

Support the work of the key environmental groups

and organisations.

Review and progressively implement the Mansfield

Shire Waste Management Strategy.

Articulate Council and community views on major

Federal and State government initiatives including

protection and enhancement of the environment in

partnership with local community groups.

Develop and implement a local policy on housing

provision covering issues such as type, mix,

subdivision design and best practice environmental

outcomes.

Prepare and implement an Integrated Water

Management Plan for the Mansfield Township.

In May 2019, Council again acknowledged climate

change as a threat to our community’s way of life as we

know it. Council committed to identifying the challenges

that this creates and produce a Climate Change Action

Plan to outline how Council can significantly reduce

emissions from its own operations and work with

stakeholders to support our community in climate

change action.

Council recommits to the key environmental programs

and partnerships it is currently delivering under the

previous Environment Strategy and the Council Plan.

Operating context

This strategy sets a direction for our local government

organisation with respect to our own operations, as well

as how we support community led environmental action.

The delivery of this strategy will primarily be led by

Council’s environmental management and sustainable

development staff.

Advising and supporting Council’s environmental

management and sustainable development staff is the

Environmental Advisory Committee. The Committee’s

membership includes local agency and community

organisational representation, along with student and

community representatives. The Committee meets six

times per year.

Mansfield Shire Council works closely with

environmentally focussed community organisations

including: Up2Us Landcare Alliance and its member

groups and, where opportunities arise, with Trust for

Nature and Waterwatch.

There are several key policies and legislation that are

relevant to this Environment Strategy. The main policies

and legislation are:

Environment Protection and Biodiversity

Conservation Act 1999

Water Act 2007

State Environment Protection Policy (Waters of

Victoria)

Fisheries Act 1995

Wildlife Act 1975

Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988

Managing Native Vegetation on Roadsides

Victorian Planning Provisions Clause 52.17 Native

Vegetation

Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994

Environment Protection Act 1970

Planning and Environment Act 1987

Climate Change Act 2017

Photo: Great Victorian Rail Trail, Ross Vaughan

Taungurung Traditional Owners Wumindjika Taungurung Biik (Welcome to Taungurung Country)

Waydjak bunbunarik liwik-nganjin yaraga-ngala dhumbali daada gurnap biik-nganjin yulendj-ngajin. Nganga-ngala biik-nganjin yaraga-ngalaburndap gerr ngarrnga buk wilanja-nganjin (We are the descendants of our old people, and we have an ongoing responsibility to look after inheritance, which is our country and our culture. We look after our country because we have an intimate relationship like thousands of generations before us.) The Traditional Owners of the land where Mansfield

Shire operates are the Taungurung people. The

Taungurung Land and Water Council (Aboriginal

Corporation) are the Registered Aboriginal Party, that

holds decision-making responsibilities under the

Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 for protecting Aboriginal

Heritage in a specified geographical area.

Taungurung Country encompasses all of the Mansfield

Shire Council and extends from east of Heathcote,

towards Rushworth and Euroa in the north, down to

near Mount Buller and as far south as Marysville and

Kilmore.

Taungurung Nation is a diverse group of people who

live throughout Victoria and elsewhere. Taungurung

People are strongly connected to Country through the

mountains, rivers and lakes.

There are many significant cultural sites throughout the

region including scarred trees on Mount Buller and

Mount Stirling. The lower parts of Country were for food

and higher Country was for food and traditional

ceremonies. The mountains housed small marsupials,

alpine plants and Bogong moths that were important

sources of food for people.

Taungurung Clans Aboriginal Corporation developed

the Taungurung Country Plan which outlines key

priorities for action, which are:

Identity, Recognition and Rights

Health and Wellbeing

Cultural Heritage

Taungurung Traditional Knowledge

Caring for Our Country

Economic Independence

The Country Plan also provides a foundation for

developing strong partnerships and relationships with

land and water management agencies and community

organisations that care for Country (Taungurung Land

and Waters Council, 2016).

Map: Taungurung Recognition and Settlement Agreement Area

Our Region – Assets and Challenges

Natural assets

Mansfield Shire is located in North-East Victoria,

covering 3,843 square kilometres. More than 60% of the

shire is designated Crown Land and 30% is owned by

private landholders. Approximately, 90% of private

landholdings are zoned for farming.

Our Shire is an agricultural, lifestyle and tourist

destination known for its natural environment. It is

comprised of several towns and regions including:

Ancona, Barjarg, Bridge Creek, Bonnie Doon, Goughs

Bay, Howqua, Jamieson, Kevington, Macs Cove,

Maindample, Merrijig, Merton, Piries, Sawmill

Settlement/Alpine Ridge, Tolmie and Woods Point.

Our Shire’s natural environment is highly valued for its

picturesque landscape and natural features. Our Shire

has a diverse environment due to its topographic

variation and microclimates and consists of four bio-

regions, including: Highlands Northern Fall, Highlands

Southern Fall, Victorian Alps and Central Victorian

Uplands. Located in these areas are Mt Buller and Mt

Stirling.

Our region has many flora and fauna species, some of

which are listed as critically endangered, endangered or

vulnerable under Environment Protection Biodiversity

Conservation Act 1999 (Mansfield Shire Council, 2013).

This includes pockets of the vulnerable Striped Legless

Lizard found at Mt Battery and Dry Creek and the

critically endangered Leadbeater’s possum. A summary

of endangered and vulnerable species is included in

Appendix 2.

Six major waterways flow through the region – the

Broken River, Delatite River, Howqua River, Goulburn

River, Big River and Jamieson River. All of these rivers

are catchments for the water storages at Eildon and

Nillahcootie and ultimately contribute to the flow and

health of the Murray Darling system.

These lakes and rivers have significant environmental

and cultural value and are significant to the Shire

(Mansfield Shire Council, 2019a).

Photo: Tawny Frogmouth – Mullum Wetlands, Lachlan Read

Primary land uses Agriculture is one of our region’s key economic drivers

and major land uses. Agriculture contributes around

$60.7M to the economy (Mansfield Shire Council,

2019a). Cattle and sheep grazing as well as seed

production are the predominant industries. Grape and

tomato production industries are also present in the

Shire as well as many agricultural related services.

Small acreage agricultural producers are increasing the

diversity of produce now grown in our region including

crops such as garlic, capers, saffron and berries to

name few. Both small and large agricultural enterprises

present significant opportunities to enhance our

regional biodiversity and tackle local weed challenges.

Resource use

Mansfield Shire has municipal waste and recycling

collection. In the 2017-18 financial year, the Shire

collected 4,234 tonnes of waste and recycled 1,302

tonnes. Mansfield Shire Council has operational

responsibility for the Mansfield Resource Recovery

Centre providing waste diversion and recycling

opportunities at a local transfer station.

Population and growth

Mansfield Shire is a fast-growing municipality with a

population growth of approximately 2% per year since

2001. This has been driven by the lifestyle, rural

amenity, affordable housing and its close proximity to

Melbourne (Mansfield Shire Council, 2019a).

Population growth and associated economic

development must be managed to ensure that needs of

the present generation do not compromise the ability for

future generations to meet their own needs.

Mansfield Shire has a permanent resident population of

8,584 persons (ABS, 2018) and median average

weekday population of 10,355 including visitors. The

total daily population increases to over 23,000 people

during peak holiday periods.

The visitor population to our region significantly

increases the demand on local infrastructure and

resources, and challenges the capacity and delivery of

local waste services.

Photo: Working bee at Woodfield, Ross Vaughan

The case for action The challenges we face today threaten the health of our

natural environment and the health of our people and

liveability of our communities. Climate change has

already started to impact the Hume region where the

Mansfield Shire is located. The climate has already

become warmer and drier and forecasts indicate that:

Temperatures will continue to rise year round

Fewer frosts will occur

More frequent and more intense downpours

More hot days and warm spells

Less rainfall in autumn, winter and spring

Harsher fire weather and longer fire seasons.

Global surface air temperatures have risen by around

1C over the last 100 years due to human activity.

Atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide (a heat

trapping greenhouse gas) are more than 40% higher

now compared to before the industrial revolution.

The changing climate has the potential to impact

significantly on primary production, infrastructure,

tourism, health and community and the environment.

This may include:

Changed distribution of pests and diseases

Increased risk of bush fires

Changed pasture growth

Reduced water security

Increased flood risk

Reduced or failed regeneration of logged forests

Increased maintenance costs

Reduced snow depths and shorter seasons

Risks to tourists in unfamiliar conditions

Increased stress on health and emergency services

Amplification of existing threats to biodiversity

Changed habitats

Contraction of alpine ecosystems (DELWP, 2015)

Although Mansfield Shire Council has been preparing

for climate change over the last decade, more needs to

be done. In 2009, with assistance from the Australian

Government, Mansfield Shire Council developed a

Climate Change Risk Assessment and Climate Change

Adaptation Report. Council is working across the region

in partnership with local groups, other councils and

agencies to manage and mitigate the impacts of climate

change. It is also a member of the Goulburn Broken

Greenhouse Alliance and as a member has participated

in projects such as: Watts Working Better – Street

lighting upgrade project, Electric Vehicle Feasibility

Study – Building the case for electric vehicles in Council

fleets and Climate Smart Agriculture Development –

Identifying agricultural opportunities under a climate

changed future.

Climate change is amplifying threats to biodiversity. The

spread and establishment of pest plants and animals

across Victoria continues to be an issue. Throughout

the Goulburn Broken Catchment, there are over 80

noxious weeds, which are declared under the

Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994. Noxious

weeds are classified into four categories: State

Prohibited, Regionally Prohibited, Regionally Controlled

and Regionally Restricted.

There are several weeds and pest animals that are of

particular concern to the Mansfield Shire Council. These

include:

Regionally Controlled weeds:

Ulex europaeus – Gorse

Rubus fruiticosus (agg.) – Blackberry

Genista monspessulana - Cape Broom

Cystisus scoparius – English Broom

Hypericum perforatum – St John’s Wort

Echium plataginuem – Paterson’s curse

Established pest animal

Oryctolagus cuniculus – Rabbits

Lepus sp. - Hares

Vulpes Vulpes – Foxes

Feral deer

Canis familiaris – Wild dogs

Cyprinus caprio – European Carp

Weed of National Significance

Nasselle neesiana - Chilean needle grass

Council is responsible for managing weeds on Council

owned land and roadsides and continuously work with

others to ensure efforts are maximised.

Council currently collaborates with other agencies and

community groups at the Regional Weeds Forum and

has developed a Roadside Weeds and Pests Control

Plan. Council recognises that pest plants and animals

are an on-going issue and is committed to on-going

control (Mansfield Shire Council, 2019b).

The impacts of changing climate are heightened by the

pressures of our growing population. Our population

has grown steadily since the early 2000s. Our Shire has

seen more housing developments occurring across the

landscape including small allotments and rural living

allotments on larger acreage. This is also putting

significant pressure on existing infrastructure, including

the waste-water treatment plant and waste disposal

mechanisms (transfer station and landfill). The average

Victorian disposes of 363kg in waste ever year – almost

99 percent of which became waste within six weeks of

purchase (Sustainability Victoria, 2019). While recycling

has increased in our Shire, our growing population

means more waste is still ending in landfill. Greenhouse

emissions from waste is increasing and existing landfills

are running out of space.

Figure 1: Sustainability Victoria, 2018

Future developments should consider environmental

impacts, potential impacts on large scale agricultural

land and the natural rural amenity that Mansfield Shire

is known for.

Our community must also manage increasing

wastewater, where Mansfield’s Wastewater Treatment

Plant is already at capacity. Declining water security will

further strain our ability to sustain growth long-term.

While our environmental challenges are significant,

there are also opportunities for action. The need for

efficient, sustainable agriculture is increasing, with the

industry in Australia aiming to grow by 70% by 2030

(National Farmers Federation, 2018).

The Victorian State Government has set ambitious

targets to achieve the Paris Climate agreement to keep

global temperature increases to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

The transition to greater renewable energy future is

happening. Local action is being led by groups such as

Renewable Energy Mansfield and Mansfield Climate

Action Group. Council’s role is to support community

action and programs that benefit our region.

Our Shire in partnership will leverage grants where they

become available to ensure we deliver on actions that

will address these environmental challenges. The

Council budget will also reflect the actions raised in the

strategy in future years.

Figure 2: Hume regional forecast (DELWP - Climate Ready Victoria: Hume (2015)

Pathways for actions

VISION: WORKING TOGETHER

TO PROTECT AND ENHANCE

THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT

We need to work together to overcome the

challenges our environment faces and capitalise on

the momentum for a low-carbon, sustainable economy. We have identified four key focus areas in

this Strategy to continue this work.

Focus Area 1: Waste

Focus Area 2: Water

Focus Area 4: Land

Focus Area 3: Sustainable Development

These areas will guide Council’s actions and how it

works as a partner with communities and

stakeholders. Mansfield Shire Council has been

undertaking a number of environmental works over

the years and continues to build partnerships with

local community groups such as Up2Us Landcare

Alliance and Renewable Energy Mansfield.

Each Focus Area identifies example actions that

community members can take to support the vision

and long-term goals of the strategy. We should all be

encouraged, that with these simple actions, we can

all protect and enhance our local environment.

The attainment of our vision will only be achieved

when, as a community, we are willing to embark on

this pathway together.

Photo: Alpine pathway, Lou Perrin

Focus Area 1: Waste

Ngabedin dhanga-bi ba yumaanda (uneaten and thrown away)

Long-term goal: Reduce waste to landfill

Policy position:

Council acknowledges: Nationally we face a waste problem. Our growing

population is producing more solid waste, which

is becoming more expensive to collect and

dispose.

We know the consumption of goods and

generation of waste have direct and indirect

impacts on our environment.

Reducing consumption and waste production is

the most effective way to reduce the need to

handle, treat, and dispose of waste.

Disposing of waste that could be reused or

recycled has both an environmental and an

economic cost.

Short-term indicators: Reduce per capita waste volume directed to Landfill.

Waste Management Strategy Developed.

100% e-waste diversion from landfill.

Waste education resources developed to increase

waste diversion from landfill.

Photo: Clean Up Australia Day - Mansfield Secondary College 2018, Kerstie Lee

Council will continue to: Council will: Community members can:

Manage operations of the

Mansfield Recovery

Resource Centre, in

accordance with the waste

hierarchy (EPA Victoria).

Plan, educate and manage

sustainable waste

management practices as a

member of the North East

Waste and Resource

Recovery Group.

With agency partners, support

waste education programs

such as ‘carry in – carry out’.

Increase recycling and reduce Council waste to landfill.

Develop a Waste

Management Strategy in

2019-20.

Eliminate e-waste from landfill

through Transfer Station

upgrades.

Engage the Mansfield

community about options for

Green waste/compost

collection.

Develop waste education

resources to increase waste

diversion from landfill.

Improve website to promote

the responsible disposal of

rubbish, recyclables, garden

and hard-waste at the

Mansfield Resource Recovery

Centre.

Support agency partners and

community groups with visitor

waste management programs.

Support national community

waste events e.g. Clean Up

Australia Day.

Support local schools to

deliver waste and recycling

programs.

Advocate for changes to State

and Federal policy to reduce

waste associated with food

packaging.

Buy products with less

packaging to influence

suppliers.

Volunteer to help sort waste

at local events so recycling is

not contaminated.

Advocate for schools,

hospital, businesses to trial

community food and garden

organic waste collection.

Support businesses to

improve waste management.

Work with community groups

and businesses to promote a

circular economy with a focus

on products utilising recycled

material content.

Establish and participate in

community groups (such as

Climate Action Group

Mansfield) that implement

innovative waste reduction

programs and opportunities

e.g. Repair Café, Boomerang

Bags, etc.

Focus Area 2: Water

Baan nganjin (our water)

Long-term goal: Healthy waterways, wetlands and lakes and access to safe, secure and affordable water supplies

Policy position: Council acknowledges:

Rivers were, and remain, central to Taungurung

Country. They provide food and places to camp,

hunt, fish, swim, hold ceremonies and practice

culture. Taungurung has an ongoing responsibility

to look after rivers and wetlands, they are places

that are central to their creation stories, and many

of their cultural heritage sites are associated with

waterways – burial and birthing.

The natural water bodies across our Shire are

invaluable social, economic and environmental

assets. The Mansfield Wastewater Treatment Plant is at

capacity and requires an upgrade.

The parts of the Mansfield township that are not

sewered (approximately 20%) pose a small

environmental and community risk, given the lack

of active management. Efficient use of water should occur to protect

supply for future generations.

Short-term indicators: Formalise arrangements for Traditional Owner

involvement in waterway management.

Adopt and implement Mansfield Township

Integrated Water Management Plan.

Reduced water usage in Council operations from

2018/19 levels.

Photo: Delatite River - Mirimbah, Gerard McHugh


Support Traditional Owner

direct involvement in the

management of waterways.

Require Water Sensitive

Urban Design (WSUD)

implementation as specified

by State Planning Policy and

Mansfield Planning Scheme

Implement the Domestic

Wastewater Management

Plan (DWMP) to reduce

environmental and health

risks from domestic

wastewater in un-sewered

areas.

Manage drought relief bores

available across the Shire.

Maintain public drinking water

taps provided along High

Street and at Botanic

Gardens in Mansfield.

Finalise and implement icon

projects and key actions from

the Mansfield Township

Integrated Water

Management (IWM) Plan.

Provide training for developers

and Council’s works staff on

operation and maintenance of

WSUD assets.

Advocate for the provision of a

reticulated sewage schemes

in un-sewered townships that

utilises connection to existing

septic systems.

Support community led action

to improve waterway health

including water quality,

biodiversity and riparian

stabilisation of urban

waterways.

Provide in-kind support to

landholders and Goulburn

Broken Catchment

Management Authority to

improve biodiversity and water

quality outcomes for rural

waterways.

Review planning schemes and

decisions to protect water

resources and assets.

Advocate for ongoing river

quality monitoring.

Build partnerships with

traditional owners and

community groups to improve

waterway management.

Consider innovative

approaches to maximise water

use efficiency in agricultural

lands.

Install residential water tanks

and adopt water saving

behaviours.

Increase the use of recycled

water and stormwater for

commercial, residential and

industrial use.

Establish local river quality

monitoring networks and share

crowd-sourced data online.

Undertake to understand the

cultural significance of our

Shire’s waterways to

Traditional Owners.

Support businesses that use

recycled water.

Join Landcare or community

based environmental group to

protect our Shire’s waterways.

Focus Area 3: Land

Biik-nganjin (our land)

Long-term goal: Diverse and self-sustaining landscapes that support healthy ecosystems now and into the future

Policy position: Council acknowledges:

Our long-term economic sustainability and social

wellbeing are intrinsically connected to our land.

Our unique natural landscapes and biodiversity are

under pressure from population growth, subdivision

and climate change.

Traditional Owners, Council, communities, farmers,

visitors, and state and federal authorities must all

play a role in protecting our physical landscapes and

diversity of plant and animals.

Fire hazard management practices, including

traditional burning, can support rather than damage

biodiversity.

Short-term indicators: Reduced prevalence of roadside weeds from

2018/19 levels.

Land Use Strategy developed.

Strong partnerships with biodiversity groups and

agencies i.e. Landcare.

Land management agreements established with

Taungurung.

Photo: Mountain Pygmy-Possum, Vincent Antony


Implement the annual roadside weed control program, consistent with the Roadside Weeds and Pest Control Plan.

Support Mansfield Weeds Forum to ensure agency coordination of annual weed control activities.

Protect and enhance roadside biodiversity (understorey plants).

Participate on Goulburn Broken Local Government Biodiversity Reference Group to share knowledge and coordinate programs with other regional local governments.

Implement Mansfield Shire Roadside Conservation Management Plan.

Provide training for Council’s operational staff on roadside conservation.

Ensure that native vegetation protections in the Mansfield Planning Scheme continue to be implemented.

Offer rates discounts to properties with a Trust for Nature Covenant.

Assess a Timber Harvest Plan in accordance with Mansfield Planning Scheme and Code of Practice for Timber Production as amended.

Encourage the use of local indigenous plants and recommended planting lists of the Revegetation Guide for the Goulburn Broken Catchment in new development.

Implement roadside fuel reduction activities in accordance with Municipal Fire Management Plan.

Develop a Land Use Strategy. Identify mechanisms to protect

large old River Red Gum, Yellow Box and other species of remnant indigenous trees, via a Tree Protection overlay, or policy statement in the Mansfield Planning Scheme.

Advocate for State and Federal Government funding and support for pest weed and animal control programs, and legislative change to reduce pest animals (i.e. deer).

Advocate for roadside weed control funding to be based on weed density and impacts (need) and not roadway length.

Work in partnership with Taungurung, Landcare, Country Fire Authority, and public and private land managers to support the implementation of indigenous land management techniques (such as burning) to enhance biodiversity.

Develop guidance on ‘green-gardening’ and soil health for residential allotments.

Support citizen science projects for the protection of biodiversity and threatened species.

Work with local environmental groups and Taungurung to develop information for new landholders on topics such as land management plans, protection of biodiversity and threatened species and cultural heritage.

Work in partnership with community-based groups (Landcare, Friends of Rail Trail etc.) to improve biodiversity on Council managed land.

Advocate for the establishment of native vegetation off-set sites within the Mansfield Shire region.

Support and encourage

community-based environment groups, such as Landcare to continue their contributions to restoring the natural environment.

Investigate Carbon Farming initiatives to improve land management.

Plan and develop a network of landscape scale biodiversity corridors.

Protect and promote native vegetation on private property – particularly large old River Red Gum, Yellow Box and other species of remnant indigenous trees.

Plant native trees and grasses. Encourage local schools to

celebrate the environment. Participate in cultural heritage

workshops. Apply soil health management

practice, such as compost, conservation tillage, cover crops, crop-livestock integration and crop rotation.

Organise regenerative agriculture workshops and forums.

Implement practices to reduce pest plants and animals.

Focus Area 4: Sustainable Development

Maal-ngi-agat (let’s build)

Long-term goal: Our natural resources and environmental values are not compromised by ongoing economic development.

Policy position:

Council acknowledges:

Climate change is impacting us now. We will see

increased temperatures, less predictable rainfall and

longer fire seasons in the coming decades. Water

resources will be increasingly stretched, meaning

more restrictions and pressure on vegetation.

Economic and population growth in our Shire will

also put added pressure on the environment. Growth

requires more resources, produces more waste and

uses more land.

Our economy must reduce waste and use resources

more efficiently to be sustainable in the long-term.

Short-term indicators: Increased use of renewable energy in Council and

community from 2018/19 levels.

Climate Action Plan developed and implemented.

Reduced Council utility costs.

Photo: Boomerang Bag workshop, Up2Us Landcare Alliance


Participate in regional projects

such as those coordinated by

Goulburn Broken Greenhouse

Alliance.

Support community led

environmental action (by groups

such as Renewable Energy

Mansfield and Up2Us Landcare

Alliance) with advice, in-kind

support and letters of support for

grant applications.

Explore opportunities to reduce its

operating cost by implementing

energy efficiency projects.

Protect farm land to limit urban

spread.

Develop a Climate Change

Action Plan.

Consult to establish a

Mansfield Shire Council

Greenhouse Emissions

Reduction target and plan for

implementation.

Ensure Mansfield Station

Precinct Activation Project

meets Green Star design and

construction standards.

Encourage urban tree cover by

supporting the planting of

suitable trees within the urban

landscape.

Support the implementation of

an Asset Management Plan for

Council managed buildings and

structures that considers

opportunities for renewable

energy projects.

Advocate for investment in

public infrastructure that

facilitates a future low carbon

economy, such as electric

vehicle charging stations,

bicycle and walking paths and

provision for better public

transport.

Work in partnership and

support Taungurung Lands and

Water Council with the

management of public lands.

Support community led

renewable energy and

efficiency programs for greater

energy independence.

Support community

renewable initiatives.

Install solar panels or switch

to a renewable energy

provider.

Support businesses that use

green energy.

Car pool on school runs and

encourage riding and

walking to school.

Shop locally and support

local farmers and food

producers.

Consume less, waste less.

Work with community

groups and businesses

promote a circular economy

with a focus on products

utilising recycled material

content.

Engage local builders and

build new homes to a 7-star

standard in the National

Construction Code to

reduce heating and cooling

needs and ongoing energy

bills.

Monitoring and evaluationCouncil recognises the importance of monitoring and evaluating the strategy for continuous improvement. The

Environment Officer will consult with the Environment Advisory Committee, local environmental organisations and

Taungurung Lands and Water Council to develop a report for Council on the annual implementation of the Environment

Strategy.

The Environment Officer will consult with the Environment Advisory Committee, local environmental organisations and

Taungurung Lands and Water Council on annual priorities for implementation. These annual priorities will be

recommended to Council for consideration via the regular budget process.

Council will report back to the community on the implementation of the environment strategy with respect to the focus

areas and the progress towards to the following goals:

Reduce waste to landfill Healthy waterways, wetlands and lakes and access to safe, secure and affordable water supplies

Diverse and self-sustaining landscapes that support healthy ecosystems now and into the future

Our natural resources and environmental values are not compromised by on-going economic development.

The review may include answering some fundamental evaluation questions such as those outlined in Table 1.

Table 1. Environment Strategy evaluation questions

Evaluation theme Key evaluation questions

Effectiveness To what extent is the strategy making progress towards achieving the goals?

Impact What has the impact of been of the work done to date?

Have there been any unintended outcomes?

Efficiency What resources have been used to achieve the goals?

Appropriateness Are the strategic actions appropriate for achieving the goals?

References: ABS (Australian Bureau of Statistics), 2018, 2016

Census QuickStats, available:

https://quickstats.censusdata.abs.gov.au/census_servi

ces/getproduct/census/2016/quickstat/LGA24250?ope

ndocument

Agriculture Victoria, 2019, Victorian Resources Online

– Goulburn Broken, available:

http://vro.agriculture.vic.gov.au/dpi/vro/gbbregn.nsf/pa

ges/gbb_climate

Department of Economic Development, Jobs,

Transport and Resources, 2015, Victoria’s Renewable

Energy Roadmap, available:

https://www.energy.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0

026/57914/Victorias-Renewable-Energy-

Roadmap.PDF

DELWP (Department of Environment, Land, Water and

Planning), 2015, Climate-ready Victoria: Hume,

available:

https://www.climatechange.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/p

df_file/0022/60745/Hume.pdf

Global Commission on the Economy and Climate,

2015, The New Climate Economy, available

https://newclimateeconomy.report/2015/

Mansfield Shire Council, 2019a, About Mansfield

Shire, available: https://www.mansfield.vic.gov.au/my-

council/about-mansfield-shire

Mansfield Shire Council, 2019b, Environment and

Sustainability, available:

https://www.mansfield.vic.gov.au/residents/community/

environment-and-sustainability#weeds

Mansfield Shire Council, 2012, Mansfield Environment

Strategy 2012.

National Farmers Federation, 2018, Talking 2030,

available:

https://assets.kpmg/content/dam/kpmg/au/pdf/2018/tal

king-2030-growing-australian-agriculture.pdf

Taungurung Land and Waters Council, 2019,

Significant Taungurung Sites, available:

https://taungurung.com.au/culture/significant-sites/

Taungurung Land and Waters Council, 2016,

Taungurung Country Plan, available:

https://www.gbcma.vic.gov.au/downloads/Traditional_

Owners/Taungurung_CountryPlan_WEB.

Photo: Blind Creek Falls, Lou Perrin

https://quickstats.censusdata.abs.gov.au/census_services/getproduct/census/2016/quickstat/LGA24250?opendocument



http://vro.agriculture.vic.gov.au/dpi/vro/gbbregn.nsf/pages/gbb_climate

http://vro.agriculture.vic.gov.au/dpi/vro/gbbregn.nsf/pages/gbb_climate

https://www.energy.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0026/57914/Victorias-Renewable-Energy-Roadmap.PDF



https://www.climatechange.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0022/60745/Hume.pdf

https://www.climatechange.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0022/60745/Hume.pdf

https://newclimateeconomy.report/2015/

https://www.mansfield.vic.gov.au/my-council/about-mansfield-shire

https://www.mansfield.vic.gov.au/my-council/about-mansfield-shire

https://www.mansfield.vic.gov.au/residents/community/environment-and-sustainability#weeds

https://www.mansfield.vic.gov.au/residents/community/environment-and-sustainability#weeds

https://taungurung.com.au/culture/significant-sites/

https://www.gbcma.vic.gov.au/downloads/Traditional_Owners/Taungurung_CountryPlan_WEB

https://www.gbcma.vic.gov.au/downloads/Traditional_Owners/Taungurung_CountryPlan_WEB

Appendix 1: Overview of consultation RM Consulting Group was engaged by the Mansfield Shire Council to consult with the local community, Councillors and stakeholders to develop the Mansfield Shire Council Environment strategy.

A community survey was run for two weeks from 28 May to 11 June 2019. The survey results were analysed and provided to Councillors.

In addition to the survey, a series of workshops were held from the 25 to the 26 of June:

Councillor workshop Community workshop Stakeholder workshop

The findings from the survey are summarised below.

Community Survey

A total of 168 responses were collected, representing 2% of Mansfield’s total population. Council’s “Have Your Say” webpage hosted the survey online from 28 May to 11 June 2019. Hard copies of the survey were also developed and distributed to community groups.

Results were aggregated for each of the three questions to identify the biggest environmental issues in the Shire, themes Council should focus on and respondents’ best ideas for environmental action.

Question one was structured to enable respondents to elect the top five environmental issues applicable to the Mansfield Shire. This data was aggregated and is provided in Figure 3.

For question two, RMCG identified priority areas by weighting responses to the question, “What are the themes you think Council should focus on?”. Respondents were asked to list up to five themes in order of priority. For first priority themes, a value of 5 was assigned, second priorities were assigned 4, and so on until fifth priorities were assigned 1.

Question three was an open response field, comments were summarised and are grouped into themes.

Respondents were also invited to provide their email address for further consultation follow-up, which occurred at the end of June.

Photo: Striated Thornbill at Rifle Butts Road Mansfield, Lachlan Read

Findings

Biggest environmental issues Overall, waste management was the highest ranked environmental issue for respondents. This was followed by pest plants (weeds) and pest animals, climate change, decreased rainfall and decreased reliability of water supply for human consumption and single use plastics as shown in Figure 3.

Figure 3: Survey participants’ biggest environment issues

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100

Indigenous cultural heritage protection

Food security and access to locally grown produce

Herbicide or pesticide use

Logging and timber harvesting operations

Increased intensity of weather events i.e. heat waves, storms

Unsustainable agricultural land management practices e.g. overgrazing, stock accessing…

Roadside vegetation management

Community awareness of environmental issues

Waterway and wetlands protection and enhancement

Land use change e.g. impacts of new developments on stormwater, native vegetation,…

Loss of native plants and animal (biodiversity)

Single use plastics

Decreased rainfall and decreased reliability of water supply or human consumption

Climate change

Pest plants (weeds) and pest animals

Waste management e.g. recycling opportunities, green waste management

Key areas of focus Waste management was elected as the priority areas of focus for Council’s Environment Strategy. This was closely followed by sustainable water management, sustainable economic development, conservation of biodiversity and land management, as shown in Figure 4.

Figure 4: Key areas of focus for Council’s Environment Strategy

0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400

Community partnerships

Local and sustainable food

Sustainable buildings and materials

Reducing carbon emission

Sustainable tourism

Community engagement and education

Land management

Conservation of biodiveristy

Sustainable economic development

Sustainable water management

Waste management

Community ideas for improving the environment Survey respondents put forward many ideas for consideration in the Environment Strategy. The ideas have been summarised and listed below (note this list is not in order of priority):

Renewable energy. Support and encourage the development of

renewable energy farms that feed into a renewable energy network i.e. solar and wind. Potential location for development could be Council land in Lakins Road/Benalla Road area.

Put solar panels on Council buildings. Sign up to Red Energy’s 100% renewable

power plan. Investigate whether Yackandandah’s model

for renewable energy could be replicated in Mansfield.

Waste management

Recycling collection on a weekly basis. Increase access to or provide more recycling

stations. Recycling bins for cans and glass. Access to soft plastic recycling. Compost and green waste bins / collection. Set a waste reduction benchmark. Free green waste drop-off prior to summer and

free mulch collection. More community waste bins including at camp

sites. Waste to energy plant that feeds into the

electricity grid. Annual hard rubbish collection. Community and school-based education on

waste reduction and management. Encourage a “circular economy”.

Pest plant and animal control

Focus on feral deer management. Weed management on roadsides and public

land. Coordinate pest plant and animal management

working bees including deer culling with departments and interested community members.

Manage weeds with native plantings. Pest plant and animal management in water

ways, particularly focus on carp, willows and blackberry.

Roadside vegetation

Allow farmers and community to manage roadside vegetation.

Pest animal and plant management on roadsides.

Manage Rifle Butts Road to preserve the unique flora and fauna.

Biodiversity conservation

Funding for works in riparian zones to minimise erosion and plant indigenous species.

Work with landholders to undertake revegetation works.

Research into loss of species (animal and plant) and the impact on the ecosystem.

Support landholders to maintain their land for biodiversity conservation.

Develop an information package for landholders that contains information on drought tolerant plant species, plant species for native fauna, species under threat and how landholders can contribute to conserving them, plants for bees and birds.

Native vegetation offset should be in the Shire. Re-engineer culverts off roads to prevent

erosion gullies on neighbours’ properties.

Urban development controls

Ensure urban development consider sustainability, living standards, energy efficiency, water storage and minimise tree removal.

Limit urban development. Preserve good agricultural land.

Compliance

Enforce environmental laws and regulations.

Partnerships and community education

Organise working party days with schools, conservation groups, government departments and farming groups to focus on riparian repair, good farming practices, revegetation.

Collaborate with Taungurung people regarding traditional burnings to help with the regeneration of plants.

Enable to community to deliver environmental outcomes.

Benchmarking and education

Develop or use sustainability metrics as performance indicators for Council.

Encourage schools to have an environmental program.

Educate the community on sustainable energy and recycling.

Carbon emission targets and benchmarks for the Shire with the aim of reducing carbon footprint.

Council to advocate for climate change action.

Other

Support e-bikes Improve green space Be carbon neutral by 2025 Camping fees and permits Reduce dust on roads.

Photo: Superb Fairy-wren at Mullum Wetlands, Lachlan Read

Review of draft strategy

Once drafted the Environment Strategy was open for a four-week public comments period. A community drop-in session was held in Council Chambers to enable community members to ask questions about the strategy.

35 written responses were received, including 10 responses from students at the Mansfield Rudolph Steiner School. There was positive support for the Draft Environment Strategy with many respondents seeking further information or wanting stronger action from Council. Following the public comments phase a number of minor changes to the Strategy were recommended. These included:

An action to develop waste education resources to increase waste diversion from Landfill.

Support citizen science projects for the protection of biodiversity and threatened species.

Work with local environmental groups and Taungurung to develop information for new landholders on topics such as land management plans, protection of biodiversity, threatened species and cultural heritage.

Mansfield Shire Council acknowledges the contribution of the community for their comments and suggestions to improve the Environment Strategy.

Support from Taungurung Land and Waters Council Throughout the development of the Environment Strategy Taungurung Land and Waters Council have been an active contributor and partner. The Mansfield Shire Council Environment Officer met with representatives of Taungurung at a workshop on 18 July 2019 to develop actions in the Environment Strategy. Taungurung also contributed a welcome statement, reviewed of language and provided artwork for inclusion in the Strategy.

Mansfield Shire Council gratefully acknowledges the contribution of the members of Taungurung Land and Waters Council for their contribution to the development of the Environment Strategy.

Appendix 2: Summary of endangered and vulnerable species A summary of key endangered fauna in the Mansfield Shire is included below. More information can be found

by visiting the Victorian Biodiversity Atlas.

Critically endangered

Synemon plana – Golden Sun Moth

Gymnobelideus leadbeateri – Leadbeater’s possum

Endangered

Anthochaera phrygia – Regent Honeyeater

Burramys parvus – Mountain Pygmy-Possum

Dasyurus maculatus – Spot-tailed Quoll

Galaxias fuscus – Barred Galaxias

Lathamus discolor - Swift Parrot

Litoria raniformis – Growling Grass Frog

Litoria spenceri – Spotted Tree Frog

Macquaria australasica – Macquarie Perch

Pseudomys fumeus – Smoky Mouse

Maccullochella macquariensis – Bluenose Cod (Trout Cod)

Vulnerable

Delma impar – Striped legless lizard

Litoria verreauxii alpine – Alpine tree frog

Maccullochella peelii – Murray cod

Public submissions to Council on Draft Environment Strategy 2 September 2019

Comment

Response and suggested changes

1.

I’ve been reading through the draft and wondering why deer are not included on page 16 (as an established pest species)? Deer are referred to specifically in the land management section so shouldn’t they be included with foxes and rabbits on page 16? I live in Ogilvies Road and vegetation and soil on our 5 acres has been seriously impacted by deer coming from Riflebutts Range. The impact has been particularly concerning in the past 12 months. Also re waste practices - I am aware that our shire collects black, plastic garden pots for recycling. I have looked into this and it seems ridiculous as well as environmentally unsound to turn black, plastic garden pots back into black, plastic garden pots! How about Mansfield investing in a pot sterilisation facility so that pots can be reused locally?

Comment supported: Pest animal list on P16 changed to include Deer Comment supported: Add action to P20: Council will: - develop waste education resources to increase waste diversion from Landfill

2. Please note I have found two typos that will help enhance the document. Page 33 first line “development's” should read “developments” (no apostrophe). The other is the confusing reference on two occasions to “garden organic collection” This is the first action by community in the proposed Waste strategy I can only assume the word “waste” is missing in both cases between organic and collection. WASTE PACKAGING The proposed action by the community to reduce waste by buying products with less packaging is a very difficult goal to achieve. How will the Shire hope to impress upon people to carry out this action? For the average shopper, the options simply do not exist – all products in all industries are presented to the

Corrections made. P20. Change “garden organic collection” to “garden organic waste collection”.

Comment


Page 2

consumer as heavily packaged, with almost no other alternative. The only shop in Mansfield where reduced/minimal/excluded packaging is the main aim of the commerce is Harvest Wholefoods in the Village Centre. One shop, only. Can the Shire be actively involved, instead, in a push to influence policy at state and federal level which addresses packaging for products? These policies – which have allowed for continuous increases in packaging - are responsible for all the costs/difficulties experienced by all municipalities now, and whole states, with these problems projected to increase dramatically into the future. The best way to deal with this universal and worsening problem is to target Packaging Policy itself. Perhaps Mansfield Shire could be a leader in this regard? WATER CAPTURE AND USE, AG LANDS I am concerned the “maximised capture and use” of water in this way could be a fraught objective. The failure of the Murray Darling basin system recently has shown that federal policies to encourage and finance farmers to increase their capture and efficiency have actually led to the river system breaking down. This is a result of “flood harvesting” and increased capture – normal flows and life-saving flood flows are not reaching the river at all, with the resultant massive fish kills seen in January. On our farm (Mt Battery area) we notice our dams now struggle to fill, that less run-off is happening, and our water supply is at the mercy of upstream landholders who can take all the water we might otherwise have captured. Not only are we not getting the water capture anymore, but people downstream of us are experiencing the same scarcity, and the historic water courses that contributed to Ford Creek and Lake Eildon have ceased to exist.

P20. Consider action: Council will:

- Advocate for changes to State and Federal policy to reduce waste associated with food packaging.

Comment


Page 3

I strongly urge the Shire to reconsider the wording of the following goal “Consider innovative approaches to maximise water capture and use in ag lands” Such a goal will result in lower flows in all our streams and rivers, with an effect on all life in our watercourses, and reduced flows into Lake Eildon. It will also impact on individual landholders competing for the same water. LAND Roadside weeds management program, AND fuel reduction on roadsides. These two actions will work in direct opposition to the two aims of “Plan and develop a network of landscape scale biodiversity corridors”, and “Protect and enhance roadside biodiversity (understory plants)” Use of herbicides for this task will imperil insect populations which are essential for pollination and as food for birds. This will have the effect of diminishing roadside biodiversity. I note you advocate for the use of traditional burning practices on roadsides. This is commendable, as long as this does not put further pressure on roadside biodiversity with all its other stresses, like climate change, people collecting firewood (which reduces habitat complexity for biodiversity) etc. Two initiatives that could be considered as worth adding to this list of goals and actions are as follows:

1) Native animal population management, where populations have exploded under European farming conditions, eg the kangaroo in Mansfield to Tolmie.

2) Carbon Farming – facilitating landholders to engage in carbon farming enterprises and establish links to State and Federal initiatives when they choose to use their agricultural land for regeneration, creating carbon sinks.

Comment supported. P22. Community members can:

- Consider innovative approaches to maximise water use efficiency in agricultural lands.

Noted, however these are not seen as contradictory goals. Roadside biodiversity is severely impacted by roadside weeds such as blackberry. Mansfield Shire Council supports existing State Government regulations with respect to wild life protection and the current permit system for culling. Comment supported: Add action - P24. Community members can:

- Investigate Carbon Farming initiatives to

Comment


Page 4

Deer – I do not recall finding any mention of Deer as a public hazard on our roads, although management of pest animals is mentioned. Deer occupy a special category with their incursions onto our roads and the threat posed to motorists as a result. This is separate from foxes, wild dogs, rabbits and feral cats. The Shire may need to initiate or press for a holistic management plan with the State Government. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT Make Building Codes stronger and include the following not as an optional extra, but as obligatory in any new house being built. Use the word ENFORCE, not “ensure”:-

- water tank - grey-water processing system - energy efficient design – 7* minimum standards - energy efficient materials – 7* minimum

standards - solar panels – minimum installation

Mandating for these standards means a better quality of life and a guaranteed saving in cost of living for all people moving into these new homes, and for those people purchasing them. It will also help Mansfield Shire to reach its targets of reduced emissions Mansfield Shire has for too long operated under a planning scheme which allows for a bare minimum of building standards, which has resulted in proliferation of sub-par homes which diminish our claim to being a region of well-being and high quality of life. Subdivisions There is a goal to restrict subdivision to maintain and protect farmland - excellent. We need also to protect our ridge-tops, hilltops and thus our visual amenity from inappropriate development. Mansfield Shire needs to wrest back control over our future amenity by having more influence over subdivision design, rather than allowing developers

improve land management.

Comment supported: Pest animal list on P16 changed to include Deer P24. Community members can:

- Implement practices to reduce pest plants and animals.

The intent of these comments is supported, however Council has no direct capacity mandate higher building standards than those set by the Australian Building Codes Board and the Victorian Building Authority. Developers can specify higher standards in their applications, however this cannot be mandated by Council. P26. Community members can:

- Build new homes to a 7-star standard in the National Construction Code to reduce heating and cooling needs and ongoing energy bills.

Comment supported. Reviews of the Planning Scheme and Land Use Strategy development offer an opportunity for these issues to be considered.

Comment


Page 5

themselves to dictate what that amenity will be – which will always be decided by minimum cost and maximum profit, rather than being guided by community aspirations. Street Lights Relevant to subdivision codes is the issue of Street Lighting. In other Municipalities, street lighting at night has now been classified as visual pollution which affects the amenity and quality of life for residents. Street lights do not belong to the rural residents' impression of what life in the country is supposed to be like. One of the main reasons for municipalities now “turning off” street lights is to allow residents to be able to “see the stars”, an important quality of life attribute, and an expectation of the benefit of “moving to the country”. Aggressive street lighting is associated with city living, and therefore the associated loss of amenity in choosing city living. Besides, the need for street lighting for up to 12 hours a night, every night of the week, is debatable. Some community groups (rural and coastal) have persuaded municipalities to remove street lighting from residential areas with a resulting improved happiness, quality of life, and amenity. No negative consequences have been reported. Night pollution is reduced not just for residents, but for surrounding rural areas which no longer have their night landscape affected by lighting. In addition to this, it reduces the municipalities' emissions significantly.

Street lighting upgrades are supported. Mansfield Shire has previously participated in the Watts Working Better street lighting upgrade project. As a member of the Goulburn Broken Greenhouse Alliance, projects such as the use of “smart lighting” technology are being considered. These technologies can both reduce electricity usage and reduce light spill and light pollution. Mansfield Shire Council will keep a watching brief on this technology and potential application in our region.

3. North East Waste and Resource Recovery Group.

I just wanted to congratulate you on a job well done, the strategy reads well and looks great. My only general comment would be that there possibly needs more substance in terms of actions and when things will occur (specific timings or years?). I know that

Comment supported.

Comment


Page 6

is sort of covered in those areas of what council is doing/ will do/ and what the community can do to help, but I do think it would be beneficial to have an action plan for each major area with specific targets so that you can then accurately measure/evaluate your success or progress.

P27. Monitoring and Evaluation will include the following statement: The Environment Officer will consult with the Environment Advisory Committee, local environmental organisations and Taungurung Lands and Water Council on annual priorities for implementation. These annual priorities will be recommended to Council for consideration via the regular budget process. The Environment Officer will consult with the Environment Advisory Committee, local environmental organisations and Taungurung Lands and Water Council to develop a report for Council on the annual implementation of the Environment Strategy. Council will report back to the community on the implementation of the environment strategy with respect to the following focus areas:…

4.

Just given myself a moment to have a good look at the draft. On the whole it is great. I've only got a few points/suggestions. Under each of the key focus areas:

Waste (page 20) - Council will - I feel there is a need to include an additional dot point or expand on the website point to include something that requires council to communicate and educate more broadly and regularly

Comment supported: Add action to P20: Council will: - develop waste education

Comment


Page 7

regarding the waste management stream and process. This should be done via rates notices, newspaper and perhaps should include waste audits of both the transfer station and of wheelie bins.

Water (page 22) - Perhaps this falls into an action rather than a strategy but there is no reference of embankment stabilisation, riparian vegetation protection and improvement, active control of sediment runoff from roads/quarries etc or reference to litter awareness, traps and removal.

Land (page 24) - Council will - dot point 2 - protection of red gums requires a minimum perimeter protection zone to avoid later removal due to safety as has happened extensively in Redgum Drive/New Street etc.

Sustainable Development (page 26) - Council will - dot point 5 - mention bike paths.

Additional dot point required to reference strengthening of local planning provisions to encourage better/sustainable development (if possible).

resources to increase waste diversion from Landfill Comment supported: P22. Amend action “Support community led action to improve biodiversity…” to “Support community led action to improve water way health including water quality, biodiversity and riparian stabilisation of urban waterways.” Noted. Tree protection zones are established where possible in accordance with the Mansfield Planning Scheme. Comment supported: P26. Change to: Advocate for investment in public infrastructure that facilitates a future low carbon economy, such as electric vehicle charging stations, bicycle and walking paths and provision for better public transport.

5. Under focus area 3 Land, Council will: Develop a Land Use Strategy. How does this strategy interact with/enhance/override the planning scheme? Does it involve future scheme amendments?

Clarification of what a Land Use Strategy involves should be considered for inclusion in Focus Area 3 – Land.

6. Thank you for the draft Environment Strategy. Unfortunately I didn’t get past the first few sentences without some alarm. Why is “Air” and in

Detailed response provided directly.

Comment


Page 8

particular CLEAN AIR not included in your Environment Strategy? The dirty air in Mansfield means so many people are suffering from Asthma and other lethal lung problems. Mansfield faces a significant air pollution problem which needs to be addressed.

No changes recommend to Environment Strategy

7. Follow up to previous submission Great response - thank you Damien. Air quality is only a concern for those who actually live in town, many of whom are not aware of the huge ball of air pollution that sits over Mansfield which has grown significantly since the tomato factory (Murphy Fresh) went in. It would be interesting to plot the addresses of all those who responded to the survey - as in living in town or outside the township boundaries. I only notice breathing problems within a one kilometre radius of town, especially walking in from the west side along the rail trail. There is heaps that Council can do to improve air quality especially through town planning and limiting house sizes to 2/3s of a block to enable trees and shrubs to be planted. Also with infill areas where Council and estate agents want to put high density development - not on!!!! we haven’t got the infrastructure to cope with it and the problems which I have experienced this year with noise and pollution are just not worth the trouble for Council employees having to follow up with bad relations between neighbours with barking dogs and smoke from neighbour’s chimney/s infiltrating your home so that a window cannot be opened at night. High density housing leads to a very unhappy community. Poor air quality in Mansfield is particularly apparent near the hospital roundabout where heavy vehicles approach from all sides, with all the slowing and accelerating involved. The largest schools and medical facilities are in this area and I think it should be a high priority of Council to try and get a township bypass funded by the state government. Heavy

Noted Noted. Council will: Advocate for investment in public infrastructure that facilitates a future low carbon economy, such as electric vehicle charging stations, bicycle and walking paths and provision for future public

Comment


Page 9

vehicles are going through the most sensitive part of town as well as in one of the most used areas for drop offs and pick-ups from schools, hospital and medical centre. Air pollution can be modified by education - why not a weekly column by the Council to encourage people to help with problems like poor use of wood heaters/chimney maintenance/alternatives to wood heating? Planting suitable trees in back yards, nature strips and infill areas to absorb some of the gross pollution that is occurring? More green areas are desperately needed throughout Mansfield, as are walking trails and connecting roads. I would have loved to see some short term objectives from the consultation process. It was beautifully written Damien but I just couldn’t see any real action?

transport. This will also benefit air quality within the Mansfield township. Comment supported: P26. Add Council will: Encourage urban tree cover by supporting the planting of suitable trees within the urban landscape. Noted. Mansfield Shire Council is about to commence on Open Space Strategy that will consider what open space is required and consider walking trails and recommendations from the Mansfield Township Integrated Water Management Plan.

8. …an excellent draft. I occasionally read with interest the exploration of recycled materials into new pavement mixes, as below: - 'In May 2018, the Victorian Government announced the $2.5 million program supporting market development for recovered resources at the launch of a road made from recovered materials. Part of this program will support research, development and demonstration projects that have the potential to use significant quantities of recovered resources. 'It seems we need this level of innovation, since exports of material to China are no longer happening (and should never have begun). I recall when working in Ireland (Republic) I was intrigued with their use of recycled plastic for round fence posts. I often thought that a huge market existed here with vineyards for such a product. Perhaps Council could establish such a business. Lots of farm fencing opportunities, apart from vine support.

Noted Comment supported: P20. Add Community members can : Work with community groups and businesses to promote a circular economy with a focus on products utilising recycled material content.

Comment


Page 10

Finally, now being an unemployed student, I need to investigate the rate reduction offer arising from Trust for Nature - not familiar with that, but my 38Ha in the Ancona area is registered now for Land for Wildlife, so seems like something similar.

9. DELWP I love all the fantastic photos of places and people, really makes the doc come to life. Great to see the strategic inclusion of various actions in the sustainable development section i.e. renewable energy Mansfield and GBGA. Looks a great strategy overall, and I hope it positions you with some more fire power!

Noted

10.

I will circulate to Howqua Valley Landcare Group. Great bird photos!

Noted

11. Have read through the draft Environmental strategy - really pleased to see all of the important environmental aspects that the council have considered, well done. I do have some concerns on sustainable population growth, which I see has been considered; although I don't see any reference to capping development/population (as I understand it, this is a State planning issue) however, I do think it's reasonable for council to advocate for population caps in small rural communities. I see yet another proposed development along the Mt Buller Rd. and more development in High st with more shops - but no provision for more parking spaces/areas. Another area of concern is storm water/waste water runoff into Fords Ck. and Mullum wetlands, which as you know exacerbates the issue of poor water quality. Perhaps this is something we could look at doing

Noted. A population cap was not considered in the development of the Environment Strategy. Noted. Comment supported. The action to Finalise and implement icon projects and key actions from the Mansfield

Comment


Page 11

something about in conjunction with Up2Us and partner agencies, (if you haven't already done so). As you will be aware, this is an issue Fords Ck. Landcare group are looking at, and hope to get some funding to do more along these lines. Anyway, that's about it, hopefully all of your positive recommendations in the strategy will be implemented?

Township Integrated Water Management Plan will address this.

12. Thanks for sending me the draft strategy and asking for feedback. I like the layout and design with all the pictures. The four focus areas are good and seem to represent the majority of community opinion. Overall, I think it could be more ambitious and have some stronger performance indicators. I think we are really at a pivotal point for climate change action, and I think that anything that local councils can do the better. What about things like increasing the percentage of canopy cover (planting trees) I the townships and where people gather. I think we are going to be experiencing far hotter summers and I wonder how councils can consider percentage targets for tree cover/canopy cover, particularly with small towns like Mansfield. This will likely involve a mixture of native and non-native species. Perhaps this can be part of the Climate Change Action Plan? And I notice that you list all the endangered species but not go into any detail about how council could work to improve habitat etc. Maybe I did not read this well enough, and I could have missed something.

Noted. Stronger performance indicators will be addressed in the proposed Climate Action Plan. Comment supported: P26. Add Council will: Encourage urban tree cover by supporting the planting of suitable trees within the urban landscape. Comment supported: P24. Add Council will: Support citizen science projects for the protection of biodiversity and threatened species. P24. Add Council will: Work with local environmental group and Taungurung to develop information for new landholders on topics such as land management plans, protection of biodiversity and

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I think the Council could come up with a few more meaningful indicators and think more about how they can reach the outcomes they want. I actually think it is quite good, just needs some tightening up. Possibly some logic modelling??

threatened species and cultural heritage. Noted. Noted.

13. Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority

Thanks for the opportunity to provide further comment on the Strategy. We support the Mansfield Shire in the development of the strategy. To date this has included involvement in a number of stakeholder consultation sessions, comment on a pre-draft strategy and provision of photographs. Further to this we would like to suggest is the opportunity to recognise in the Strategy the involvement/support of Mansfield Shire on stakeholder collaborative committees, such as the Goulburn Broken Local Government Biodiversity Reference Group and Up2Us Landcare Alliance. The Goulburn Broken CMA also invite opportunities to work with Mansfield Shire on issues such as the protection of Red Gum forests and Waterway health, as identified in the Strategy.

Noted. P24 Council will continue to: Participate on Goulburn Broken Local Government Biodiversity Reference Group to share knowledge and coordinate programs with other regional local governments. Noted.

14.

(REF. pg 10) Environmental management & sustainable development staff AND Environmental Advisory Committee Who are the council staff members responsible for this area? Who are the present local agency/community members on the Advisory committee? It would be good to know

A detailed response was provided directly to answer these questions.

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who was involved so as to communicate/connect with them from time to time to keep up to date with what is happening and support them in challenges they face. Apart from Up2Us Landcare Alliance, Trust for Nature, Waterwatch, who are these people? A previous focus on weed/pest control has been identified, what resources is Council putting towards pest control now? REF pg 11 Taungurung Traditional Owners Is this a political party? What is the website that identifies this group? .It was mentioned at the public meeting, but I missed writing it down. Can the map showing the area covered by the Taungurung tribe be added to the Environmental Strategy as discussed at the public meeting held at Council so it is visually displayed? In the Environmental strategy the Taungurung Corporation have priorities for:

- rights - cultural heritage - economic independence

What is meant by this? How are these to be achieved? Can the Taungurung Country Plan be clarified and explained. At the public meeting nothing was known about this. The questions have been asked, can this be followed up please…prior to implementation of the Environment Strategy. ***the Environment Strategy does not acknowledge the history of British /European settlement over the last 200 years. This needs to be incorporated into the cultural heritage plan. It is important to protect, restore and preserve the history of our area including the huts (such as Fry’s Hut and all the other huts in our region),

Comment supported. A map showing the Taungurung Recognition and Settlement Agreement Area will be included in the Environment Strategy. The Environment Strategy references the Taungurung Country Plan. It is the Country Plan that identifies these priorities for action for the Taungurung Land and Water Council. These are not actions for Mansfield Shire Council. Noted. Although these important sites should be preserved, the Environment Strategy focus in on the protection and enhancement of the natural environment.

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geographical features relating to the Gold rush era such as the brick chimney at Sheepyard Flat and the Tunnel at Tunnel Bend, and to identify new historical features such as mines, digs and artefacts relating to the gold era. Other geographical locations hold other historical features, such as the tracks at Carters Road and the timber mill memorabilia that was the predominant source of income for the Mirrimbah community during the past century. Pg 16 Established pests What about the deer problem? What about the European carp problem in all local rivers? What about the large populations of kangaroos in the area which are reaching ‘plague’ proportions? What support is being given to agricultural stakeholders to manage vermin and weed in the area? PG 17 Mansfields growing population is putting pressure on infrastructure What is the solution to the Wastewater Treatment Plant that is already ‘at capacity’? What long term plan is Council setting to manage the wastewater issues? Waste management pg 20. Waste management is definitely an area of concern for us all and all points made on pg 20 are commendable. An easy place for campers to drop their waste (and pay for its disposal) is required though. The convenience of the bins at BP and Jamison Rd ensured rubbish was easily disposed of. Reducing this service I believe will lead to more rubbish being left in the bush or dumped

European cultural heritage has not been identified as a focus area for the Environment Strategy. Comment supported: Pest animal list on P16 changed to include Deer and Wild Dogs Mansfield Shire Council supports existing State Government regulations with respect to wild life protection and the current permit system for culling. Comment supported. The action to Finalise and implement icon projects and key actions from the Mansfield Township Integrated Water Management Plan, will address this. Noted. The action to Develop a Waste Management Strategy should also consider peak-waste demand.

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on the roadside. What will the cost to the environment be here and how much will it cost in recovery? Bring back the skips! Focus Area: Water What is the anticipated direct involvement of the Taungurung Corporation in the management of the local waterways in the Mansfield area expected to be? Can this direct involvement be clarified please? The protection of our waterways and the provisions outlined on pg 22 for water management are all very positive. Focus Area: Land Continuing with planting of locally indigenous plants is positive, as these will be most tolerant to the local weather conditions and be water efficient in nature. Seeking funding for pest weed and pest animal control programs will support both agriculture and tourism growth in the area What and why do we need a Land Use Strategy? Please give more information on what this strategy is for and how it will support natural environment within the Mansfield township and in farming/agricultural areas. I agree: Implementing roadside fuel reduction activities is important for fire management and safety I do not agree with the protection of redgum trees within built up areas of town. There is a significant risk of branches dropping unexpectedly which does not reflect general public safety within the township areas….Definitely protect every old redgum in a paddock! Put safety first within the township area. Sustainable Development Pg 26 Lots of ‘plans’ to be undertaken eg Climate Change Action Plan; Precinct Activation Plan; Asset Management Plan; renewable energy & action plans……All these cost money.

Noted Noted Noted Noted. Clarification of what a Land Use Strategy involves should be considered for inclusion in Focus Area 3 – Land. Noted. Noted. Noted. Page 27 will include the following text: “The Environment Officer will consult with the Environment Advisory Committee, local environmental organisations and Taungurung Lands and Water Council on annual

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Is it sustainable given the limited Council budget and already highlighted concerns relating to Waste, Water and Land management within this draft environment plan??? Perhaps these Plans could be implemented after actively working on the highlighted Waste, Water and Land issues which need to be prioritized with the available funding Council has to work with.

priorities for implementation. These annual priorities will be recommended to Council for consideration via the regular budget process.”

15. Thanks the opportunity to read and comment on the draft environment strategy for Mansfield Shire. I absolutely agree with the strategies in the policy and am glad to see some positive change being introduced, particularly regarding the waste management strategies. My constructive criticism of the document was that it was not concrete enough in providing any measurable commitment to making identifiable change. Though it is filled with many pretty pictures of wildlife and community action groups, without the grit of measurable targets and objectives it’s only really ticking the box for the requirement of an up to date environmental policy. Unless the objectives are defined and measurable, the document is inadequate. My suggestion is that the policy needs to;

- Declare a state of climate emergency; - Commit to a target of 100% Renewable Energy

for Council Operations by 2025; and - Commit to a target of net zero carbon emissions

for the community by 2040. My concern is that climate change was not highlighted early enough as a priority. The rest of the issues are redundant if the planet becomes uninhabitable, as is the very real threat of the current climate change emergency. To quote the United Nations website; Climate Change is the defining issue of our time and we are at a defining moment. From shifting weather patterns that threaten food production, to rising sea

Noted. Noted. Noted. These points will be considered in the Climate Action Plan.

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levels that increase the risk of catastrophic flooding, the impacts of climate change are global in scope and unprecedented in scale. Without drastic action today, adapting to these impacts in the future will be more difficult and costly. According to the Intergovernmental Panel for Climate Change (IPCC) report, greenhouse gas emissions reached their highest levels in human history between 2000-2010, and about half of the total anthropogenic carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions have been released in the last 40 years. Perhaps these figures can be used in the draft. The horrifying reality, as brought home to many by teenager Greta Thunberug’s address at the National Assembly in Paris on 23/07/2019 was that the planet has a very limited carbon dioxide “budget”, after which catastrophic climate change is inevitable . The IPCC summary for policy makers report states that if we are to have even a 66% probability of limiting the global temperature rise to less than 1.5°C above the pre-industrial period, then we have a global CO₂ budget of an estimated 420 giga-tonnes (gT) of CO₂ remaining as of end of 2017. Without significant change of trajectory, and given the current rate of global CO₂ emissions is calculated at 42Gt per year (+/- 3gT) , this gives us approximately 10 years from the end of 2017 by which time this carbon dioxide emissions budget will be spent, approximately by the end of 2027. This is without the possible reduction of that estimated carbon budget by a further 100gT by potential release of CO₂ from melting permafrosts and increased methane release from the newly created wetlands. I would say that this constitutes a serious climate emergency, and warrants mentioning far earlier than page 17 of the draft environment policy as a contextual reference. The draft document states rightly that global CO₂ emissions have risen more than 40% since the industrial revolution. Perhaps to make a stronger point you could state the actual figures, that the estimated atmospheric concentration of CO₂ was 280ppm pre-industrial revolution, and that concentration surpassed 400ppm CO₂ in 2013 and is now unprecedented in human history.

Noted. These will be considered for inclusion on P16 The case for action. Noted. These will be considered for inclusion on P16 The case for action.

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I understand from the public responses to the council surveys that reducing carbon emissions was not high on the priority of residents, and I suspect this comes down to lack of understanding of the issue by the general public. I have a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Melbourne, and these facts as delivered by the IPCC are difficult to process even for me, and I understand it is not popular for federal government or media to broadcast such devastating figures. While I agree that the other issues mentioned in the draft environmental strategy documents are very important issues, there will be no point worrying about roadside weeds if the earth becomes uninhabitable for human life. I would love to see commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions, with the strong advocation and implementation of more sustainable energy use such as solar, hydro-electric and wind power. Would council also consider adding a green waste bin to our existing rubbish and recycling collection, perhaps to be collected on alternate weeks to the recycling bin collection. If this were combined with an education programme for residents to explain the importance of removing carbon-rich material from the landfill in order to reduce methane production, and diverting the green waste to a composting facility, this would contribute to a global solution. I also saw no mention in the policy for reducing deforestation of existing local forests and instead concentrating on planting sustainable timber plantations and reducing virgin paper use. The many listed endangered species would all benefit from this reprieve in habitat loss too. Would council consider working towards strategies to commit to a paperless office where possible, and encourage and support other local businesses to do the same?

Comment supported. These points will be considered in the Climate Action Plan. Noted. P20 Council has committed to an action to “Engage the community about options for green waste/compost collection. Comment supported: Add action to P20: Council will: - develop waste education resources to increase waste diversion from Landfill Comment noted

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The draft mentions the Environmental Advisory Committee, and I wonder if you could please advise who comprises this committee and how the community members were chosen or elected please. I also attach a copy of the IPCC summary for policymakers of their latest report, which may be of interest to the committee.

A detailed response will be provided to answer these questions directly.

16. I've just read this draft strategy/report. Here are my takeaways: 1. Its great to see that our local council recognises Australia's commitment to the UN Paris Climate Agreement 2. It's scary to think that 'The average Victorian disposes of 363kg in waste ever year – almost 99 percent of which became waste within six weeks of purchase'. 3. I'm glad to hear 'In May 2019, Council again acknowledged climate change as a threat to our community’ 4. Wow 'Mansfield Shire has a permanent resident population of 8,584 persons (ABS, 2018)... daily population increases to over 23,000 people during peak holiday periods. The visitor population ... challenges the capacity ... of local waste services. 5. 'Overall, waste management was the highest ranked environmental issue for respondents' 'Environment Strategy Summary Chart', it’s a good start from our community. I'd like to see a significant and tangible delivery before the end of the year. Something that the community (council, businesses, families, individuals) can all become involved in. Making a holistic contribution and feeling like they have made a 'difference.' Something that aligns with this strategy and the overall UN agreement/Paris climate sustainable goals agreement. Helping us to change from a linear economy to a circular economy. Being able to educate our community for the good of all.

Noted. Noted. Actions from the Climate Change Action Plan are likely to align more with commitments to Paris Agreement. Comment supported: P20. Add Community members can: Work with community groups and businesses to promote a

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Given the above, Implementation of this initiative in our community would be a big tick for the council. 'The Mansfield Cup. Mansfield: first town in Australia to remove single use cups!' This initiative applies to all four focus areas (waste, water, land, development) and No. 11 & 12 of the UN sustainable goals (see below) that Australia signed up to deliver on.

I believe the community of Mansfield is 'awakening' to how important every individual is in helping to create a better world for us and our children's, children. My feedback is based on my knowledge and background in Project management, ISO 14001, ISO 9001, advocate for sustainability and working for multi-nationals.

circular economy with a focus on products utilising recycled material content. Noted.

17. Up2Us Landcare Alliance Thank you for taking the time to meet with me today regarding Up2Us’ comments on the Draft Environment Strategy. It was useful to speak with you about each of the points we raised to ensure that we collaborate on actions that are generated as a result. I appreciate you being able to integrate these points into the final draft. Up2Us looks forward to working in collaboration with the Mansfield Shire Environment team to support environmental actions for Mansfield.

Hard copy of comments provided. Changes supported including: P24. Add Council will: Support citizen science projects for the protection of biodiversity and threatened species. P24. Add Council will: Work with local environmental group and Taungurung to develop information for new

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landholders on topics such as land management plans, protection of biodiversity and threatened species and cultural heritage. Change references to “large red gums trees…” to - “large old River Red Gum, Yellow Box and other species of remnant indigenous trees…”

18. I support Council’s commitment to ‘Identify mechanisms (and implement strategies) to protect large red gums (and other species) via a tree protection overlay I do not support Council’s commitment/action to: Approve planning permits that endanger the general appeal of the area through vegetation and native vegetation removal. I would like stronger action on: Protection of native trees and vegetation in consultation with Environment Officer; Greater commitment from Council in this area with development of a Climate Change Plan, Electric Vehicles, Greenhouse Emissions targets etc. Enforcement of breaches of the Environment Act. Other comments: Greater resourcing and support of the Environment Unit at Council. To achieve success with this strategy more resources are required.

Noted Noted Comment supported by action in Environment Strategy. Noted Noted Noted

19. Some very positive directions, particularly with regard to seeking to significantly reduce Council’s own carbon emissions and also to support the community in reducing theirs. I look forward to the new Climate Change Action Plan. Perhaps Council could consider declaring a Climate Emergency as other local

Noted

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governments in Victoria and elsewhere are beginning to do? The acknowledgement of the Taungurung Land and Water Council, and the stated desire to work with them on many aspects of land management is also very welcome. I hope this may extend to the small gesture of allowing establishment of the indigenous food garden in the Botanic Gardens, which seems to have been on hold for a long time. On pages that refer to historic red gums in the area, such as p8 and p24, please note that the accepted common name is River Red Gum. Also, many large old trees of other species have persisted in the local agricultural landscape, and even within the town of Mansfield. In particular there are large numbers of Yellow Box, and to a lesser extent White Box, Candlebark, Red Box, Grey Box and Manna Gums are found on the plains, with of course many more species towards hill and mountain districts. Could at least the Yellow Box be acknowledged? especially as there are significant remnant trees near Bindaree, and near the corner of Highton Road and Mt Buller Road, and on many properties near town. The inclusion of EPBC listed threatened species needs to be updated, for instance Leadbeater’s Possum is now listed as Critically Endangered. I note that a Council document from 2013 is the reference. Either this list needs to be accurate and comprehensive (including plants) or not included at all. Current information can be source from the Victorian Biodiversity Atlas - please ask if you would like my assistance with this. My suggestion would be to include this information as an Appendix - in this way species listed as rare or threatened in Victoria (VROTS) and species listed under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee can be included. Inclusion of threatened ecological communities in this list would also be worthwhile. In the main part of the report mention could be made of species that are particularly significance locally, such as Striped Legless Lizards that have been found at Mt Battery and Dry Creek. These updates also need to be applied to the figure on p15.

Noted Comment supported. Suggested changes to be incorporated into Environment Strategy. Comment supported. Suggested changes to be incorporated into Environment Strategy. Comment supported. Suggested changes to be

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On page 16 please include another dot point: ‘the reduced or failed regeneration of logged forests’. I have a reference for this if wanted. On page 17 there is a sentence that doesn’t make sense to me: ‘The average Victorian disposes of 363kg in waste ever year – almost 99 percent of which became waste within six weeks of purchase (Sustainability Victoria, 2019).’ I’m guessing it’s a reference to shopping habits? On page 24 there is another reference to red gums - dot point 2, centre column. Could this please be re-written to the following: ‘Identify mechanisms to protect large old River Red Gum, Yellow Box and other species of remnant indigenous trees both within and surrounding the Mansfield township, via a Tree Protection overlay, or policy statement in the Mansfield Planning Scheme.’ Also on page 24, last dot point in centre column, presumably this should refer to native vegetation offsets, not ‘biodiversity off-sets’, as the latter don’t form part of the planning system in Victoria. I recently spoke at an Up2Us Committee meeting on this topic - perhaps clarify that this advocacy could only usefully be addressed to private landholders within the Shire area. It is extremely unlikely that State legislation would be changed to enforce using local offsets within Mansfield Shire, and so, in my opinion, not a worthwhile use of Council resources to advocate for it at the State level. Please do contact me if you have queries about any of the above. Although I’ve focussed on a few details that could be changed, overall the Strategy is well thought out and put together, many thanks to all concerned.

incorporated into Environment Strategy. Noted Comment supported. Suggested changes to be incorporated into Environment Strategy. Comment supported. Suggested changes to be incorporated into Environment Strategy.

20. I would like to commend you for the recent work and consultation you have taken in bringing this important document together. I offer the following feedback on some aspects of the document as a means of being constructive in this process.

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VISION I believe the vision statement is too generic and doesn’t reflect the more urgent issues in the body of the document that need to be addressed as part of climate change. (Coincidentally, the vision to ‘protect and enhance the environment’ was the vision statement for Project Mansfield, an organisation back in the 1980s that worked for the railway precinct to be brought back into shire/community ownership and also secured philanthropic funding for the Mullum Wetlands.) I believe environmental issues have changed dramatically over the past three decades and a more proactive vision that seeks to address climate change challenges is warranted for the future. CLIMATE ACTION PLAN I strongly support the Strategy commitment to a Climate Action Plan and believe the shire should take a leadership role and advocate on behalf of community organisations such as Landcare who are already doing great work as volunteers in various parts of the Shire. Helping to facilitate and support applications for grants and leading discussions around biodiversity are examples of a collaborative approach than can generate better outcomes. One other example could be tapping into the knowledge of Totally Renewable Yackandandah’s community group which has 100% of renewable energy with the goal of achieving energy sovereignty by 2022. Discussion opportunities such as these are not costly but provide an effective mechanism for shared knowledge with successful, like-minded interest groups. FUTURE OF REDGUMS - Eucalyptus camaldulensis I note with interest the reference to protect Eucalyptus camaldulensis (redgums) around the township. I believe this is a massive understatement of the escalating crisis in the redgum population throughout the shire where the species is a dominant feature of much of the rural landscape. The dramatic decline in what were once healthy redgums is directly related to the removal of understorey vegetation and climate change (see attached research) and will have a

Noted Noted

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devastating effect on the landscape habitat in the Mansfield district. It is something that the Shire and community groups such as Landcare and farmers need to address in the management of a healthy and sustainable landscape. The lerp infestation of susceptible species does not discriminate between young and old trees so the redgums future in this shire is at serious risk. I urge the Shire to work with user groups in seeking out the latest research so that any advice and action on planting, revegetation and preferred species is sustainable with climate change. MANSFIELD WATER SUPPLY CATCHMENT I am surprised that there is little reference to the Delatite River water catchment in the strategy given that it is the source of Mansfield’s water supply and the prime river in the Mansfield township valley. I believe that because the head of the river is in close proximity to the Mt Buller Ski resort and all the development that occurs there the Mansfield Shire must be vigilant in protecting the River from pollutants and diversion that inhibits flow. In previous years the Delatite River Action Group was formed when construction of new roads crossing the upper reaches between Mt Buller and Mt Stirling were seen as a threat to the river and its habitat. There needs to be liaison between the shire and the Mt Buller Resort Management Board on planning and management issues that impact on the integrity of the Delatite River. PROTECTING FARM LAND I strongly endorse the commitment to protect valuable farm land from less productive and unwieldy urban sprawl that is starting to become evident around the Mansfield township. Planning measures will be needed to address this matter to ensure a sustainable future for our primary production sector. The need to preserve prime agricultural land has been identified as a worldwide issue and the farming sector is moving to becoming carbon neutral with revegetation and carbon sequestration in the soil. Burning off paddock practices should be discouraged by the shire with permits only given for extraordinary reasons. The farming sector should be encouraged in any way to fence off and revegetate bald, eroded and unproductive hill tops,

Noted Noted

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especially in the western part of the shire. Planning guidelines should also support this. MANSFIELD MULLUM MULLUM WETLANDS These wetlands, which have created a rich and diverse ecosystem within the township boundaries, are often overlooked in their significance. Having done a guided tour within the past 18 months and observing how a lack of maintenance and silting-up had interfered with the ability of this area to drain and retain a healthy habitat for wildlife and plantings I would recommend that this attractive area be maintained on a regular basis. Many volunteer hours have been spent on creating and enriching this gem at the entrance to our town but there is little information online for visitors and locals to access. It is under-promoted but a delightful experience for those who discover and use it. REFERENCES I would suggest that the publication, The Understorey Story, a comprehensive study of the woody understorey plants of the Mansfield District published in 1992, still remains a relevant and highly informative document on the importance of understorey revegetation and remnant species and should be referenced in this strategy. While out of print it is probably still available at the Mansfield library and is an example of the far-sighted legacy of its authors and field workers. I have a copy if anyone needs to see it. TYPOS I refer to the following inclusions as potential typographical errors: Page 12: Should it be Lake Mokoan instead of McCowan? Page 22: Mirimbah instead of Merimbah in photo caption Page 24: Understorey, not understory.

Comments supported. Action to implement Mansfield Township IWMP will assist with this goal. Noted Noted. Typos to be corrected.

21. Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning

The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) thank Mansfield Shire for the opportunity to influence strategic planning and to

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comment on the Draft Mansfield Environment Strategy 2019-23. Natural Environment Programs (DELWP) support the Draft Mansfield Environment Strategy 2019-23. DELWP support the concept of the Tree Protection Overlay and/or policy statement within the Mansfield Planning Scheme and any future mechanism that will further enable the protection of large trees surrounding the Mansfield township. The strategy also discusses (Page 24) that Council will continue to: Protect and enhance roadside biodiversity (understory plants) and provide training for Councils operational staff on roadside conservation. DELWP are supportive of these measures. DELWP support threatened species management and protection. The department may have additional expertise with various threatened species and may also be able to assist with knowledge of the listed threatened species in Draft Strategy.

Noted Noted Noted.

22. Overall I don’t think the environmental strategy goes far enough - and the urgency for our region in regards to our changing climate and climate risk is not taken seriously. My individual comments include:- Page 6 - ‘under a future’ should be reworded to reflect the urgency and risk of in-action It’s not just about ‘reducing emissions’ but far wider than that (and should be included here in the Foreword) 4th paragraph - ‘can take to support’ - TYPO Page 8 - Waste - to include incentives for businesses (to reduce or measure waste)

Noted Comment supported. Re-word “amplified under a future of climate change” to “amplified with climate change”. Noted: no change recommended.

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Water - to include Agriculture use, efficiency and utilisation (not mentioned??) Land - to recognise the importance of farmland to the regions food security Development - include Sustainable development that balances population growth, sustainable & affordable housing, land & amenities. Without damaging the regions eco-system or attraction. (dev - Communities) - to consider measured outcomes of development (like green stars) for business and development Page 20- including Climate Action Group Mansfield here (members can join). Council to develop further strategies that address the high patronage of tourism with reduction of regions overall waste via media, education & partnerships WATER (page 22) - (community members can) - Consider innovative approaches to maximise water capture, innovation and efficiency of USE in agricultural lands

Change to: “Consider innovative approaches to maximise water use efficiency in agricultural lands.” Noted: no change recommended. Noted: no change recommended Noted: no change recommended Comment supported: Community members can: Change – “Establish and participate…” To “Establish and participate in community groups (such as Climate Action Group Mansfield) that implement…” Comment supported: Add action to P20: Council will: - develop waste education resources to increase waste diversion from Landfill Comment supported: Change to: “Consider innovative approaches to maximise water use efficiency in agricultural lands.”

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Incentivise businesses that use recycled water (Or change to Incentivise businesses that implement water efficiency strategies (included recycling & reduction) Include reference to the sensitive land areas - and the need for increased funding for erosion & water capture on agriculture land (further than just planting for biodiversity sake) LAND (page 23) Including protection & development of farmland (for food production development) Council - to provide education to farmers for water, land & farm development * Offer incentives (rate reduction) for carbon increase in soils (like Trust for Nature) * Encourage local schools & BUSINESSES to be part of environmental development in region DEVELOPMENT (PAGE 25) Include ‘Sustainable Development’ as a key short term indicator Include CAGM as one of the community led environmental action groups) Build urban efficiencies into urban & future town development considerations Council will (pt 5) provision of BETTER public transport

Noted: no change recommended Noted: action added to Land Focus Area to address this comment. Noted: May be an outcome of Land Use Strategy. Noted: addressed in Sustainable Development P24. Add Council will: Work with local environmental group and Taungurung to develop information for new landholders on topics such as land management plans, protection of biodiversity and threatened species and cultural heritage. Noted: no mechanism currently exists to support his idea Noted: no change recommended Noted: no change recommended Noted: no change recommended Noted: no change recommended Comment supported: Change to “future public transport” to “better public transport”.

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Community Members can - Be part of better education of sustainable consumption, local food, and local farms. Evaluation should be done as a metric annually. Much of the waste, water, land and development could be given a metric or rating that is measured over time - and referenced to this each year. * Building this into the Environmental Advisory Action plan - so there are actual metrics to this over time (happy to help with this?). And including the Sustainable Development Goals as a reference point to each of these measures. * Also to include key messages around reduction of Waste, Land degradation, Water efficiency/protection & Sustainable Development in the goals and aspirations of aspects the council supports (like Council incentivising events that reduce their waste - or bring in a community group to sort so that waste is reduced)

Comment supported: Change: “Shop locally and support local producers” To “Shop locally and support local farmers and food producers” Comment supported: P27. Monitoring and Evaluation will include the following statement: The Environment Officer will consult with the Environment Advisory Committee, local environmental organisations and Taungurung Lands and Water Council on annual priorities for implementation. These annual priorities will be recommended to Council for consideration via the regular budget process. The Environment Officer will consult with the Environment Advisory Committee, local environmental organisations and Taungurung Lands and Water Council to develop a report for Council on the annual implementation of the Environment Strategy. Noted: no change recommended

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23. I provide the following comments and seek some answers to questions regarding the Mansfield Shire Draft Environment Strategy 2019-2023. Council’s focus must be on objectives that are financially viable and achievable and where the community benefits the most. Waste is now such a large issue across the country and the Shire must and can lead the way on this issue. More information below Pest plants (weeds) and animals is another issue that plagues our Shire and where support to the community and environment must remain a focus. The Strategy could include greening the Mansfield Township and other small centres with improved landscaping. The benefits of street trees and landscaping reducing the effects of hot summers whilst providing shade would be a great inclusion in the Strategy and something that could be achieved by Council. The further beautification of the towns would very much inspire the community. I fully support Council advocating for the establishment of biodiversity off-set sites within the Mansfield Shire region. This would ensure that our offset money does not leave the Shire. The Strategy makes a lot of statements but there are no background documents based on Mansfield to back up or support the information. Following are comments on sections of the Strategy: Page 8 - But our environment is under severe pressure from climate change and unsustainable development. Can this severe pressure from climate change please be explained and also unsustainable development, it is not clear what these are and how it will affect the Shire directly. Difficult to comment or measure successes without some facts.

Noted Comment supported – Action included: Council will continue to implement the annual roadside weed control program consistent with the Roadside Weeds Control Plan. Comment supported: P26. Add Council will: Encourage urban tree cover by supporting the planting of suitable trees within the urban landscape. Noted Noted

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Page 9 - In May 2019, Council again acknowledged climate change as a threat to our community’s way of life as we know it. Council committed to identifying the challenges that this creates and produce a Climate Change Action Plan to outline how Council can significantly reduce emissions from its own operations and work with stakeholders to support our community in climate change action. Is there any more information as to the threat to our community’s way of life as we know it? These are very strong words but no explanation or facts as to the actual threat to our way of lives. What might the Climate Change Action look like? Mention of this plan is also found on Page 25 – Sustainable Development - Climate Action Plan to be developed and implemented. Can more information be provided as to what this plan along with the sustainable development initiatives Council might be wanting to achieve. Are these building designs, materials etc.? Page 11 - The Taungurung Country Plans also provide a foundation for developing strong partnerships…. Can more information be provided as to the “Taungurung Country Plan”. Page 20 – Waste – Fully support Councils efforts on waste. It is something that is tangible for Council to be involved in and all ratepayers financially contribute through their Council rates. Council to seek community and/or business ideas for innovative ways of dealing with our waste problem and facilitate new ideas. No efficiencies gained in sending it to landfill many miles away. There must be opportunities for small scale centres locally for green waste and paper or cardboard products. Will Council itself be looking to secure new innovative ideas for waste recycling? Page 21 – Water - What are the arrangements for Traditional Owner involvement in waterway management (Page 21 – first dot point) as stated? There is no information and is unclear. Can more information be provided?

Noted – text from Council resolution. Noted: Action included – Develop a Waste Management Strategy in 2019-2020 Noted: Action included – Develop a Waste Management Strategy in 2019-2020 Noted.

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Page 23 – Land Use Strategy - What outcomes are Council looking for by undertaking a Land Use Strategy – no information in draft Environment Strategy to explain. What would it cover and outcomes, would it be looking to introduce more Overlays over land. Again difficult to support a Strategy that asks for another one to be completed without explaining what it is for? What is driving the need for a Land Use Strategy for Mansfield Shire? Page 24 – Land - Identify mechanisms to protect large red gum trees surrounding the Mansfield township via a Tree Protection overlay, or policy statement in the Mansfield Planning Scheme Native Vegetation controls in the Mansfield Planning Schemes covers the removal or lopping of native vegetation and is stringent in its approach. Both State and Local Government Policy already recognises the importance of protecting native vegetation. Why introduce an Overlay in the Shire when a permit is already required in the majority of instances for vegetation removal? Why is Council only focused on red gums? I fully support the Strategy - Advocate for the establishment of biodiversity off-set sites within the Mansfield Shire region. This is also another outcome that Council can focus on where net gain can be achieved through the current planning policy and native vegetation removal. At present our offset monies are being used outside the Mansfield Shire to protect or enhance native vegetation. Page 26 - Consult to establish a Mansfield Shire Council Greenhouse Emissions Reduction target and plan for implementation. What would be the measure for a realistic reduction target and this would need to be explained to the public/ratepayers in much more detail.

Noted. Change references to “large red gums trees…” to - “large old River Red Gum, Yellow Box and other species of remnant indigenous trees…” Noted. Noted.

24. Student- Mansfield Steiner School Dear Councillor, I would like Mansfield to become a town that only uses solar energy.

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We need solar power so we can have clean skies and clean air.

Comment supported: Action included - Council will develop a Climate Change Action Plan

25. Student- Mansfield Steiner School Dear Councillor, I am writing to ask you to ask that as a community, we need to plant more trees. We also need to use solar power. The reason is climate change. My house is off the grid and relies on solar. This is clean energy and we also didn’t have a blackout the other day.

Comment supported: P26. Add Council will: Encourage urban tree cover by supporting the planting of suitable trees within the urban landscape. Comment supported: Action included - Council will develop a Climate Change Action Plan Comment supported: Action included – Council will support community led renewable energy and efficiency programs for greater energy independence.

26. Student - Mansfield Steiner School Dear Councillor, My name is … and I’m 12 years old. I go to Mansfield Steiner School. In class we are learning about renewable energy systems and I would like Mansfield to use more solar power. Also have more plant-a-tree days. We should also put up a charging station for electric cars.

Comment supported: Action included - Council will develop a Climate Change Action Plan Comment supported: Action included – Council will work in partnership with community based groups to improve biodiversity on Council managed land. Comment supported: Action included – Council will advocate for investment in public infrastructure that facilitates a future low carbon economy, such as electric

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I hope you will consider my ideas.

vehicle charging stations, provision for better public transport.

27. Student - Mansfield Steiner School Hello, My name is …. I am 11 years old and I’m in year 6. I think there’s a big problem with methane and carbon dioxide. To stop this would could plant more trees and on National Tree Day we could do half price on trees so it encourages more people to plant trees. This would reduce greenhouse gasses because trees consume carbon dioxide and make it into oxygen.

Comment supported: P26. Add Council will: Encourage urban tree cover by supporting the planting of suitable trees within the urban landscape. Comment supported: Action included – Council will work in partnership with community based groups to improve biodiversity on Council managed land.

28. Student - Mansfield Steiner School Dear Councillors, I just want to say that I don’t want to live in a world where the weather is unpredictable and where the Great Barrier Reef doesn’t exist. I want this to change by making towns rely on solar power. This way, power blackouts won’t happen and there will be less pollution.


29. Student - Mansfield Steiner School Dear Councillor, Hello, my name is …, I am 12 years old and in year six. I think instead of having a “Plant a tree day” once a year we could have one every few months to increase the amount of tree in Mansfield. But if we don’t we will die a slow and painful death and our rotting bodies will echo with the sound of the wind.

Comment supported: Action included – Council will work in partnership with community based groups to improve

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biodiversity on Council managed land. Comment supported: P26. Add Council will: Encourage urban tree cover by supporting the planting of suitable trees within the urban landscape.

30. Student - Mansfield Steiner School Dear Councillor, My name is …, I’m 12 years old and I’m in year 6 at Mansfield Rudolf Steiner School and Kinder. In class we have been learning about Climate Change and Global Warming. I think it would benefit Mansfield, Australia and particularly the world if we started doing something about it. Here’s a list of things we can do:

1. Plant more trees so there’s not as much carbon dioxide in the air;

2. Encourage people to buy electric or hybrid cars;

3. Have more tree planting days; 4. Start using solar panels or wind turbines; 5. Stop cutting down trees.

I hope you can do something about this and write back as soon as possible.

Comment supported: Action included - Council will develop a Climate Change Action Plan Comment supported: Action included – Council will work in partnership with community based groups to improve biodiversity on Council managed land. Comment supported: P26. Add Council will: Encourage urban tree cover by supporting the planting of suitable trees within the urban landscape.

31. Student - Mansfield Steiner School Dear Councillor, I am …, I go to Mansfield Rudolf Steiner School and I think that we shouldn’t completely rely on solar energy but we should try and promote it more. If we show people what renewable energy can do then they will consider it more.


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Comment supported: Action included – Council will support community led renewable energy and efficiency programs for greater energy independence.

32. Student - Mansfield Steiner School Dear Councillor, My name is …, and I am writing to you because as a community we need more trees. Also instead of coal for electricity, we could use wind powered turbines. One spin of it can power a home for one day. I don’t see any excuse for not doing these things, and making Mansfield a better place. You will die from old age, but I will die from climate change.

Comment supported: P26. Add Council will: Encourage urban tree cover by supporting the planting of suitable trees within the urban landscape. Comment supported: Action included – Council will support community led renewable energy and efficiency programs for greater energy independence.

33. Student - Mansfield Steiner School Dear Councillor, My name is …, I go to school at Mansfield Steiner. I think we need to use more eco-friendly power sources like wind turbines, solar and geothermal electricity. Personally I think we can use much better technology to give us what we need to power our lives. These methods would also reduce pollution and the effects of climate change. Did you know that one spin of a wind turbine can power one house for a whole day!

Comment supported: Action included – Council will support community led renewable energy and efficiency programs for greater energy independence.

34. Overall it has my support, well set out and hopefully good will come of it. It is so important to always be

Noted

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mindful of our flora/fauna and the land we live on and look after it. I think that the protection of our “red gums” is worthwhile, providing that the rights of the landowner are not completely taken away and the control on the urban sprawl is worthwhile, good luck with the developers. I don’t support the elimination of certain species of our wildlife, e.g. deer, however I do believe in culling where necessary. I would like stronger action on the control of roadside vegetation. Some areas would greatly benefit from a “cool burn”, making it safe for residents in the coming fire season. I have some concern in regards to the “ownership of waterways”. Residents need to be informed what this exactly means to them, in simple terms. If Council decides to provide “green bins”, could we have the choice of either a “green bin” or a compost bin providing costs are similar. Residents composing their green waste would cut down on Council cost i.e. collection etc. Teaching our children to care for our surrounds is so important however it is not only our schools to teach them such it is more the responsibility of parents to play a bigger role and lead by example.

Noted Noted Comment supported: Action included – Work in partnership with Taungurung, Landcare, Country Fire Authority, and public and private land managers to support the implementation of indigenous land management techniques (such as burning) to enhance biodiversity. Noted Comment supported: Action included – Engage the Mansfield community about options for Green waste/compost collection. Noted

35. Overall Comments

Noted

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I really like the strong indigenous recognition throughout the strategy, I think that approaching an environment strategy from this ‘angle’ gives it a very solid framework. Lots of good things, so even though I’ve highlighted some shortcomings that I’d like to see addressed, I’m really pleased with the fact that the Shire is prioritizing the environment. Given that the bulk of Shire land is either crown land (70% from your figures) or private farmland (90% of 30% from your figures), I’m surprised that the strategy doesn’t focus a lot more on engaging with these stakeholders. Without significant buy-in from both, any environment strategy (particularly where it concerns the land and water focus areas) will have limited success. There is a lack of clarity around introduced species. For instance, on p16 fox and rabbits are mentioned, but not deer or feral cats. It would be good to get some sort of ‘environmental stocktake’ done which could provide some baseline data, highlight key issues and changes needed, and set targets and performance measures (i.e. for flora and fauna). This could take the form of a collaboration with a university or other similar organization (I’m thinking of a significant scale, longer term project rather than a one-off consultant report). WASTE Co-mingled recyclable collections inhibit effective recycling. There is an urgent need to develop more decentralized recycling collection options to avoid them being mixed up in the first place, which will produce higher quality/ higher value recycled material. What about some small neighbourhood trials? Let’s take our hint from the federal government and resolve to deal with all our waste locally, rather than ‘ship it off elsewhere’ for someone else to deal with. Council need to make it easier for people to recycle. Charging $9 to deposit a toaster (chargeable e-waste) at the tip sends entirely the wrong message. Higher value recyclable material such as e-waste should be

Noted. Comment supported: Pest animal list on P16 changed to include Deer and Wild Dogs Noted. Comment supported: Action included – Develop a Waste Management Strategy in 2019-2020. Comment supported: Action included – Engage the Mansfield community about

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disposable free-of-charge. Ditto green waste. ‘Quality’ green waste is a useful resource, disposal should be free-of-charge. Ditto any organic matter. Be good to do things to encourage businesses to promote lower packaging alternatives – where is the engagement with supermarkets, etc. WATER There is nothing relating to the unsustainable (primarily agricultural, but also rural residential) extraction of water via bores and excessive dam building. Would be good to see some emphasis on encouraging/ supporting farmers to fence off waterways on their land LAND Great to see the emphasis on roadside vegetation, but need more detail on how that could help provide corridors for flora and fauna. Would be great to see some strategies to work with farmers on selective revegetation and protection of significant vegetation when in many cases this is to mutual benefit. Nothing about minimizing the recurrent use of pesticides and weedicides

options for Green waste/compost collection. Noted Comment supported. P22. Community members can: Consider innovative approaches to maximise water use efficiency in agricultural lands. P24. Add Council will: Work with local environmental group and Taungurung to develop information for new landholders on topics such as land management plans, protection of biodiversity and threatened species and cultural heritage. Noted P24. Add Council will: Work with local environmental group and Taungurung to develop information for new landholders on topics such as land management plans, protection of biodiversity and threatened species and cultural heritage. Noted

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SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT Continue to encourage transport alternatives such as walking or cycling through appropriate provision of infrastructure (particularly within Mansfield) Lift energy ratings on buildings (via planning process) Thanks for the opportunity to contribute.

Comment supported: Action included – Advocate for investment in public infrastructure that facilitates a future low carbon economy, such as electric vehicle charging stations, bicycle and walking paths and provision for better public transport. Noted, but cannot be implemented via the planning process.

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