Western Port Biosphere - Annual Report 2015 by Grendesign

2014 - 2015 ANNUAL REPORT

Western Port Biosphere Reserve is proudly supported by:

WESTERN PORT BIOSPHERE ANNUAL REPORT 2014-2015 (COVER IMAGE CREDIT) AUSTRALIAN PELICAN - G EHMKE

Contents Page

Western Port Biosphere - Overview & Highlights

Message from the Chair

Message from the Executive Officer

The Directors (biographies)

Projects - Growing Connections

- Water Stewardship

- Ramsar

Bisophere Research Committee Report

Southern Brown Bandicoot Recovery Program

Photos used in this publication, unless otherwise credited, have be provided courtesy of staff members and our partner Councils.

Western Port Catchment Committee

Financial Statements

Contact Information

This publication is available at www.biosphere.org.au 3

STRIATED PARDALOTE - G EHMKE

WESTERN PORT BIOSPHERE RESERVE The Mornington Peninsula and Western Port Biosphere Reserve has a combined area of 2,142 square kilometres and is made up of five local government areas and French Island. It contains a mix of landscapes: national and marine parks, rural agriculture and urban-growth areas. Dotted with beautiful swimming beaches, sea-side townships and vineyards with picturesque settings, the biosphere is a tourist destination for millions of Australians and overseas visitors every year. A major draw-card of the biosphere reserve is the wonderful diversity of flora and fauna including breeding colonies of the Little Penguin, Koala, Australian Fur Seal, Hooded Plover and Short-tailed Shearwater. As well as being a key destination for tourists and those who love its unique environment, Western Port Biosphere is popular with researchers and scientists. It has numerous sites of geomorphological and historical significance and is a region of great biological diversity due to an unusually wide range of habitat types. Western Port Biosphere hosts many significant indigenous plant communities, and rare threatened and vulnerable fauna species such as the endangered Southern Brown Bandicoot. Western Port is listed under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International significance

What is a Biosphere? Biospheres are sites of excellence that seek to reconcile conservation of biological and cultural diversity and economic and social development through partnerships between people and nature. Biospheres are ideal learning sites to test and demonstrate innovative approaches to sustainable development and conservation on a regional scale. They are established by countries and recognised under the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation’s (UNESCO’s) Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme. After their designation, biosphere reserves remain under national sovereign jurisdiction, yet they share their experience and ideas nationally, regionally and internationally within the World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR). The Mornington Peninsula and Western Port Biosphere reserve is one of fourteen Biosphere Reserves in Australia and 651 reserves world-wide.

The Foundation The non-profit Biosphere Foundation works with the community to create a better future for the Western Port Biosphere Reserve—environmentally, socially and economically. We do this through research, education, community engagement, partnerships and on-ground conservation efforts. The Foundation has active networks embracing conservation, sustainable development and responsible stewardship. These networks include local, state and federal government authorities, researchers and scientists, environmental and community groups and non-government organisations. The Foundation has active networks embracing conservation, sustainable development and responsible stewardship. These networks include local, state and federal government authorities, researchers and scientists, environmental and community groups and non-government organisations.

2014 - 2015 ANNUAL REPORT Our Partners include: Bass Coast Shire, Cardinia Shire, City of Casey, Frankston City Council, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council and Parks Victoria.

2014-2015 Highlights This year has been one of continued growth. Conservation • Growing Connections project distributed $208,224 for on ground works • B enefits of the work being done by community partners in the project include weed control, management and revegetation of land which connects habitats

Communications • Participation at the Technical meeting of Australian Biosphere Reserves and representatives of the World Network of Island and Coastal Biosphere Reserve in Noosa, November 2014. • L aunch of our new website and Connector as an E newsletter. • Launch of Pilot Report Card - an opportunity for us to work together as a region. A Pilot Report Card showcasing what we are all doing to work towards sustainable development for the region. • R epresentatives from Bass Coast Shire, Cardinia Shire Council, City of Casey, Frankston City Council and Mornington Peninsula Shire Council spoke at the launch about their sustainability initiatives.

• N ine new contracts were signed with community partners to care for and improve habitat within the Biosphere Reserve. The contracts were with Bass Coast Landcare Network, Cardinia Catchment Landcare Group, Cardinia Environment Coalition, Cardinia Shire Council, the Habitat Restoration Fund, Mornington Railway Preservation Society, Phillip Island Nature Park, and Toomuc Creek Landcare Group

ith Water Stewardship Australia, Inghams Enterprises, • W Somerville Secondary College and Port Phillip and Westernport CMA hosting a nine member delegation from China looking into water stewardship initiatives.

• T o date the Growing Connections project has overseen 668 hectares of habitat protection and 72.5 hectares of revegetation since 2012. In this time 58,200 individual plants, comprising 128 different species, have been planted.

Governance & Operations

• O ver 90 representatives from community groups, councils, state agencies and individual landholders attended the Growing Connections Biodiversity Planning Forum held at the Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne.

• Implementing the recommendations of the Governance Review

• W ith Phillip Island Nature Park hosting WPCC Community Boat Trip to the Southern part of Western Port on the “Sprinter”.

• Appointment of New Chair • 10 year review completed and accepted by UNESCO

• C alls for Expressions of Interest for Board members • I ndependent Board Selection Committee appointed

• W estern Port Biosphere Draft Biodiversity Plan launched • D r Paul Carnell, Marine and Coastal Ecologist at Deakin University’s Centre for Integrative Ecology, presented his research into the possibilities vegetated coastal habitats offer in fighting the effects of climate change.

2014 - 2015 ANNUAL REPORT

Stewardship program to the region. Lance Lloyd has been engaged as Project Officer to manage this project. Water quality and conservation will be an essential focus for commercial and domestic consumers alike, as population growth, predicted higher temperatures and lower rainfall, threaten water quality and supply. This year we launched our first Annual Report card. The report card idea had been discussed for some time and the data collected and collated via this pilot exercise has already provoked interest and critical, as well as positive, feedback. The report card concept aims to provide a simple but informative snapshot of key indicators, such as; energy use, waste management, volunteerism, work location and transport patterns. As the concept develops we also hope to better assess the cultural, economic and environmental health of the Biosphere and its constituent councils, the City of Frankston, Cardinia Shire, Mornington Peninsular Shire, the City of Casey and Bass Coast Shire. Eleanor Bridger was responsible for much of the work associated with Report Card development, my thanks to her and all who contributed their time and effort to gather the information we requested.

CHAIR’S REPORT

This Biosphere Reserve has some very valuable marine and terrestrial assets but it also has another very important asset, its people and the latter asset will grow in number very rapidly during the next 15 years. We can treat this rapid, certain growth, as a threat to what we have, or, we can embrace it, plan for it and welcome this changing and dynamic demographic as the opportunity to bring new life and passion to the UNESCO concept within this region.

In writing this report I need to first acknowledge my predecessor Rob Gell AM, who chaired this organisation through its 1st decade. I took over from Rob at the AGM last year and a few days later EO, Cecelia Witton and I attended a conference of Australian and overseas Biosphere Reserves with UNESCO representatives at Noosa in Qld.

For us, this will almost certainly mean strengthening our partnership with our friends in local government, growing and exploring new tasks for the Research Committee, the Catchment Committee, friends groups and other organisations, as we encourage new cultural opportunities, new environmentally responsible development opportunities, the scope is great.

The conference helped me understand the diversity of some of the 651 biosphere models across 120 countries. Each is unique, with its own cultural, environmental, economic and geographic, values and characteristics and each no doubt interprets and embodies the key principles of the UNESCO “Man in the Biosphere” philosophy accordingly. UNESCO has been auditing the performance and compliance of Biospheres that are more than 10 years old to determine whether they should retain endorsement. I am pleased to report that we have passed this scrutiny.

At last year’s AGM members voted overwhelmingly in favour of a recommendation to change the Board from a representative base to a predominately skills based structure. I look forward to working with the new Board as we continue to consolidate and grow existing initiatives and explore new opportunities. In welcoming new members, may I also take the opportunity to thank the previous members who have been welcoming of me and enthusiastic, knowledgeable supporters of the Biosphere, its aims and its objectives. I also wish to thank EO Cecelia Witton and her staff, who provide professional and dedicated service to this organisation.

Any organisation only survives if it retains relevance to its members and stakeholders. We have some key projects that I believe meet this expectation. The Growing Connections project focuses on preservation and enhancement of the limited, but very valuable natural flora and fauna estate within this Biosphere. It encourages involvement and participation by private landholders and community volunteers and is producing positive results.

Duncan Malcolm, AM Chair, Western Port Biosphere October 2015

The monitoring of the Southern Brown Bandicoot population, as well as predator species, such as foxes and cats, is providing valuable information and the fixed cameras will continue to provide data for further analysis to assist in developing better long term management options. Thanks to Chris Chambers, Sally Jacka, Samantha Ibbetson and David Nicholls for their work on this project. During the past year, Cecelia Witton has been working with Water Stewardship Australia, the Helen Macpherson Smith Trust, Inghams and other partners, to bring the Water

As stated a major strength of these programs is the cooperation and sharing of information between all involved and a focus of community participation, this is once more highlighted through Lifesearch. This annual event held during bird week in October, encourages participants to record what plants, birds, and other animals they observe within the Western Port Biosphere Reserve. Schools, community groups and individuals are invited to take part and the data collected as part of this citizen science project will be uploaded to the Atlas of Living Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s database. Securing a sufficient level of core funding to enable building of capacity to deliver objectives, is an ongoing issue, not only experienced by the Foundation, but other not for profit organisations. The impact of this is demonstrated in this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s financial result. To help correct this trend the Board are implementing a targeted fund raising program. I look forward to working with our new board members and hope that you will join us and help shape our vision for sustainable development of this region over the coming year and continue to work with us to protect the assets that make this unique place special.

EXECUTIVE OFFICER REPORT The launch of our new look website, was the end product of many hours of work and research by all involved, and for me great personal satisfaction with the result. The new look site, has facilitated greater interest in Biosphere activities and better use of social media has enabled expanded communication reach. Another means to engage with our stakeholders was the development and launch of the Pilot Biosphere Report Card which saw the first step in development of simple informative mechanism to report on key indicators and build a snapshot of the Biosphere. As foreshadowed last year Expressions of Interest have been called to select a skills based board and the Selection Committee appointed. Successful nominees will be recommended to the Board and their appointments confirmed at the Annual General Meeting in November. The Foundation is grateful to our local government partners for their ongoing support and looks forward to strengthening our collaboration under the new Board. Our key projects - Growing Connections, Protecting Ecological Values of Ramsar, Building a Western Port Water Stewardship Community continue to grow awareness of the Biosphere and build cooperation and collaboration through participation of community groups, government agencies, local government and industry working together to deliver successful outcomes of each project.

Cecelia Witton Executive Officer October 2015

2014 - 2015 ANNUAL REPORT

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Rod Anderson BSc (Hons)

David Garnock Captain CSC RAN (ret’d)

Rod Anderson is the State Minister’s nominee on the Board of Directors. His responsibilities on the Board include Deputy Chair and Member of the Executive. Rod is an Environmental Planner and Policy Analyst. He is a Senior Victorian Public Servant with experience in coastal planning, forest biodiversity, climate change adaptation and carbon policy and regional program delivery.

David’s role as a Director on the Western Port Biosphere Board is perfectly aligned with the goals he is pursuing as a Mornington Peninsula Shire Councillor Cerberus Ward. David is keenly interested in the issues and aspirations of the community in the Western Port region. One of his most important priorities is to safeguard this unique environment, preserve and enhance the beauty of our coast and ensure responsible economic development. He takes this responsibility seriously and is honoured to dedicate his full energies to achieving the best outcomes.

Duncan Malcolm, AM Honorary Fellow at Monash University 30 years’ experience on a range of boards, predominately in the public sector. A former Chair and Deputy Chair of the Rural Water Commission/ Corporation of Victoria, a former Commissioner with East Gippsland Shire Council, a former Chair of the Gippsland Coastal Board and the East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority, Member and Chair of The Victorian Environmental Assessment Council and several other former board memberships. Current roles include; Director of Gippsland Medicare Local, Trustee of the Australian Landscape Trust and Macpherson Smith Rural Foundation. He was made a Member of The Order of Australia in 2007.

Libby Jude BSc, Grad Dip App Sc (Env Mgt) Libby Jude is the District Manager, South East Melbourne District, for Parks Victoria. Libby has worked across many parts of the state in various management, strategic planning and wildfire recovery roles for Parks Victoria over the past 16 years. Libby is an accredited Authorised Officer for compliance and enforcement purposes, and has been an accredited firefighter since 1998, currently fulfilling both Agency Commander and Operations Officer roles for DEPI.

2014 - 2015 ANNUAL REPORT Mick Morland CPA

Neil Rankine B Sc (Hons), Dip Ed.

Mick Morland is a councillor at the City of Casey and has a CPA from the University of Melbourne. He brings to the Foundation his experience in business, as a Director of Rotary, Chairman of the South East Australia Transport Study and Chairman of the City of Casey Conservation Advisory Committee (18 years). He was a councillor for the former City of Berwick in 1992 and was subsequently elected to the Casey Council. Cr Morland has served as mayor of the City of Casey and is the Secretary, Public officer and member of the Executive of the Foundation.

Neil Rankine is a councillor for the Bass Coast Shire. He has a strong interest in trying to preserve the diminishing natural values that make the shire and the broader Biosphere region such a special place to live and visit. Neil believes we all lose if we allow these values to be taken away from future generations for the lack of a vision, or for short term gain.

Jeff Weir BSc; MSc; DipEd; MFIA, Executive Director, Dolphin Research Institute Jeff has diverse experience in marine science, education and business, including in the not for profit sector. He is an author and has presented many papers, including keynote addresses, at scientific and education conferences and is regularly seen in the media. Jeff is a member of Victoria’s Central Coastal Board, the Cleaner Yarra-Bay Ministerial Taskforce and the Fundraising Institute of Australia. Jeff has a long history of involvement with community organisations and is the Executive Director of the Dolphin Research Institute, a leading not-for-profit marine science and education organisation based in Hastings.

David Young Dip. Farm Management David Young is Cardinia Shire Council’s representative on the Biosphere Board. Currently farming at Officer South, his interests include sustainable agriculture and wildlife habitat conservation. Some committees he has been involved with include Cardinia Creek Environment Working Group, Yakkerboo and Cardinia’s Environment Management Strategy. He enjoys serving the interests of the Biosphere community and region.

PROJECT GROWING CONNECTIONS

Below I have outlined the progress of each of the key parts of the Growing Connections project over the last year and provided a brief outline of the plans for the next year.

Biodiversity Plan The plan being developed has the aims of providing guidance for prioritisation of areas for future investment in biodiversity protection across the biosphere landscape and outlining the ongoing activities of the project.

Improving habitat corridors regionally across Western Port Biosphere.

The Biodiversity Plan was released as a draft at the Western Port Biosphere Biodiversity Forum which was held in April 2015. Comments were requested from all parties, with many submissions being received. These submissions were instrumental in improvements made to the plan before its release as a final document.

This project is funded by the Australian Government

While the plan is currently in paper form it will be turned into an online web based document which will allow for updates of the mapping sections to be undertaken easily and information about works underway to be uploaded by the community. This will greatly increase the ability of the Biosphere to monitor the outcomes of the plan being delivered on ground.

Along with the ongoing great work being undertaken on ground to restore remnant vegetation and undertake revegetation by our partners, the Growing Connections project has also delivered some key outcomes over the previous year. These are: • Delivery of the Western Port Biosphere Biodiversity Plan (available on our website) • Delivery of the Predator Control Strategy for the Western Port Biosphere Reserve (available on our website) • Delivery of three ‘storyboards’ on our website

Negotiations are underway with the Port Phillip and Western Port CMA to integrate the priorities of the Biodiversity plan into the ‘naturelinks’ section of their Regional Catchment Strategy. This link will provide a clear pathway of priorities from the wider region down to the local level.

• Hosting of the Western Port Biosphere Biodiversity Forum.

On ground works

• Continued strengthening of key partnership across the region

Revegetation and remnant vegetation restoration.

• 189ha of remnant vegetation restored

During the 2014/15 financial year the Growing Connections project undertook significant amounts of revegetation and remnant vegetation restoration activities. The sites chosen for works were guided by the outcomes of the mapping undertaken for the Biodiversity Plan. Many of the works undertaken were extensions of works undertaken in previous years. This has allowed for the gains made in previous years to be further strengthened and enhanced

• 35.4ha of revegetation in priority areas across the landscape • Continued broad scale monitoring of biodiversity across northern Western Port • Delivery in the field data collection capabilities for our monitoring project

Bass Coast Activity

Project Partners

Area covered

Revegetation

Phillip Island Nature Park Bass Coast Landcare Network

10.09ha

Remnant restoration

Bass Coast Landcare Network/Holden Phillip Island Nature Park

139ha

Activity

Project Partners

Area covered

Revegetation

Cardinia Catchment Landcare Group

15ha

Remnant restoration

Cardinia Catchment Landcare Group

30ha

Activity

Project Partners

Area covered

Revegetation

Cardinia Environment Coalition Toomuc Valley Landcare Group Cardinia Shire Council

3.8ha

Remnant restoration

Cardinia Environment Coalition Toomuc Valley Landcare Group Cardinia Shire Council

9.5ha

City of Casey

Cardinia Shire Council

Mornington Peninsula Shire Council Activity

Project Partners

Area covered

Revegetation

Mornington Railway Preservation Society

2.4ha

Remnant restoration

Habitat Restoration Fund Mornington Railway Preservation Society

10.7ha

Activity

Project Partners

Area covered

Revegetation

French Island Landcare Group

1.5ha

Remnant restoration

nil

Activity

Project Partners

Area covered

Revegetation

8 partners undertaking revegetation

35.4ha

Remnant restoration

7 partners undertaking remnant vegetation protection

189ha

French Island

Totals

9 partners all together

2014 - 2015 ANNUAL REPORT

ROYAL SPOONBILL - GLEN EHMKE

Pest control Pest management is a key component of the Growing Connection Project. Integrated and coordinated pest control across the Biosphere is a key outcome of the Growing Connections Project. Key steps have been taken during the 2014/15 financial year towards delivering this outcome. The biggest of which is the delivery of the Pest Control Strategy for the Western Port Biosphere Reserve. This Strategy outlines best practices and priorities in pest management across the landscape. The Strategy also

outlines the formation of the Western Port Pest Animal Group which held an initial meeting at the start of the development of the strategy and will be holding the second meeting in October 2015. The aim of this group is to bring together the main organisations undertaking pest control across the region in order to enhance greater communication and coordination between these organisations and the works undertaken, which will bring greater efficiencies and effectiveness of pest control activities. On Ground works have also been continued in the area surrounding the Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne, focussing on Foxes and Cats. This work will conclude at the end of December 2015.

Pest Control Activity

Project Partners

Area covered

Pest Control

Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne Ecology Australia

330ha

Ecological Fire Management

Enabling Systems

The City of Casey are undertaking on ground works in the area of ‘fire’.

The Cooperative Research Centre for Spatial Information (CRCSI) have delivered on key outcomes for the project during this financial year.

The project they are undertaking is in the Blind Bight area on council land. Progress so far has seen a controlled burn undertaken successfully with follow up fauna and flora survey works and weed control currently underway.

Biodiversity Monitoring The Growing Connections project is undertaking a broad scale monitoring program focussed on the endangered Southern Brown Bandicoot and its distribution across the Biosphere. With up to 65 motion and heat sensing cameras deployed across the northern Western Port area at any one time capturing photos of all the fauna that use the landscape. This program has been underway for the last 3 years and has collected hundreds of thousands of photos of everything from moving vegetation to bandicoots, wallabies, foxes, cats, birds, possums, cows, deer, pigs, rats, and many other species. We are currently up to date with the initial analysis of the photography and are negotiating with Ecology Australia to undertake the statistical analysis of these initial results. This analysis will provide us with a measure of the ‘occupancy’ of the target species. By gathering this data we can then measure this occupancy in the future and gain a measure of the change over time. By linking this change with on ground actions, such as pest control, we can gain an understanding of the impact these on ground actions have to these species. The work Growing Connections is undertaking for the Southern Brown Bandicoot will contribute to an overall picture of Biodiversity health that will be built in the coming years using monitoring data collected for numerous species by several organisations. Ecology Australia is working with the Biosphere and is providing advice on experimental design and statistical analysis. Growing Connections has also engaged the Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne and Bass Coast Landcare Network to manage some of the camera maintenance on our behalf. The remaining cameras and data analysis is being managed by biosphere staff and volunteers.

Risk Assessment RM Consulting Group (RMCG) undertook a risk assessment of the project at the start of the financial year. From this assessment RMCG made 11 recommendations to the Project Implementation Committee (PIC). These recommendations were around how to ensure the governance of the project was as clear and effective as possible. All recommendations were endorsed by the PIC and are being implemented.

These are: • A structured GIS environment, including procedure for future updates, for the internal use of the Biosphere to allow us to better produce maps and information for various uses. • Three ‘story boards’ which are linked to our website. Each board tells a different story, the first of which is the story of the Biosphere, the second is about our monitoring program, and the third is on the changes that have occurred to our landscape over the last 200+ years. More ‘story boards’ will be made over the coming year and will allow the Biosphere to tell all our stories in a clear and innovative fashion. • On Ground data collection tools for our monitoring project. CRCSI are currently working on the on ground data collection tools for both the pest control and vegetation works associated with this project. They are also currently developing a process through which the ‘health’ of the Biosphere can be monitored using various data sources.

Supporting Tootgarook Wetland Ramsar Nomination Western Port Biosphere is a member of the Government and Agency Working Group, working with stakeholders to assess the Tootgarook Wetland against the Ramsar criteria. Work has continued on the development of Wetland Use Management Plan to identify and carry out actions with Government, Community and Landholders that are required to protect enhance and where identified restore the Catchment to ensure the wetlands retains its beauty and function. A precinct plan is being prepared highlighting the values and threats to the Wetland and using these values and threats a set of management actions will be developed. As a collective the Mornington Peninsula Shire, consultants, government, agency and stakeholder advisory committees are developing the initial draft Plan for public exhibition. A workshop of stakeholders held in August 2015 provided opportunity to gather the combined knowledge of the various matters raised by the community and those identified as part of the studies prepared. Birdlife Australia completed the first year report on Bird Monitoring of Tootgarook Wetland.

PROJECT WATER STEWARDSHIP Building a Water Stewardship Community in Western Port. This project is being conducted over three years with funding from Helen Macpherson Smith Trust and is a joint initiative between Western Port Biosphere and Water Stewardship Australia. Melbourne Water, South East Water, Port Phillip and Westernport CMA, Mornington Peninsula Shire and Inghams Enterprises, who are taking a leading role as a global pilot site for trial implementation of the international Water Stewardship Standard, are also contributing funds to the project. The Western Port Biosphere is working with agencies, industry, agricultural enterprises and the community to create a better future for the Western Port Biosphere Reserve— environmentally, socially and economically. Western Port region was chosen for this project because of its status as a UNESCO biosphere reserve, it’s outstanding natural values (including a Ramsar wetland of international significance) and the increasing pressures of urban, agricultural and industrial development being located on the fringe of the expanding city of Melbourne. Biosphere reserves aim to keep places special by fostering conservation and sustainable development. Water Stewardship is one of the ways we will achieve this goal.

A Reference Group supporting the project includes representatives from the Western Port Biosphere Reserve, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council, Port Phillip and Westernport Catchment Management Authority, Parks Victoria, Melbourne Water, South East Water, Southern Rural Water, EPA Victoria, Inghams Enterprises, and Water Stewardship Australia. Water Stewardship is a form water management which can be externally accredited. It builds on existing works and planning that a site manager has already undertaken and is easily developed and implemented. The scheme has six simple steps, which we are assisting landholders complete by various inputs (see figure to right). Water Stewardship Australia (WSA) has been developing a global water stewardship system since the Millennium Drought. The system is based on: • an international water stewardship standard against which participating organisations can be assessed; • a credible verification program for assessing participating companies and organisations, and; • a brand and recognition system that encourages and rewards participation in improved water management practices. The Western Port Biosphere Water Stewardship Project will use the AWS International Water Stewardship Standard as a tool for businesses and land mangers that use water to address the shared and site-specific challenges of the catchments. Water stewardship is intended to achieve four outcomes: • Sustainable water balance (the quantity of water available) • Good water quality • Healthy important water related areas, and • Good water governance.

E N V I R O N M E N TA L I S S U E S Water Scarcity

STEP 1 Commitment of Site Manager to better Water Stewardship

Water Quality

Ecosystem Health

Social Equality or License to operate

INPUT Watson Creek Catchment Information from WSA & Western Port Biosphere

STEP 2 Gather and understand information on site conditions

INPUT Training and Assistance from WSA & Western Port Biosphere

STEP 3 Develop Site Water Stewardship Plan

STEP 6 Celebrate and communicate your success

GUIDANCE & ACCREDITATION Water Stewardship Standard

STEP 4 Implement

STEP 5 Evaluate

2014 - 2015 ANNUAL REPORT

The aims of the project have been to: • Develop a shared understanding of catchment issues • Help water users develop site water stewardship plans • Verify major water users performance against the International Water Stewardship Standard • Develop a local recognition program to reward participants of all sizes • Involve the broader community • Develop a self-sustaining program beyond this project • Measure and report impacts of the program By December 2015, the project aimed to achieve the following targets:

Target

Status (in October 2015)

Founding Partners will be working together

A multiagency Reference group has been working together for the last 12 months and have met 3 times as a group and agencies have been working with the project team to achieve our aims.

Catchment issues and indicators will be developed and presented to a stakeholder meeting for discussion

A report has been prepared by the project team and reviewed by the Reference Group which examines and summarises the information know for the Watson Creek Catchment, identifies the issues and documents indicators of success.

Issues and indicators finalised Five to 10 early adopters will be identified and developing Site Water Stewardship Plans

7 early adopters have committed to developing Site Water Stewardship plans for their properties and are enthusiastically beginning this process. Training in the Water Stewardship Standard is due to occur in late October 2015.

Develop assessment framework

An assessment framework is currently in development by the project team, which will allow the project to assess the success of the program within each site, the various catchments selected and the Biosphere region as a whole.

The Watson Creek Catchment is the initial focus for our project to build a Water Stewardship Community in the Western Port Biosphere Reserve. Watson Creek Catchment was selected because of previous work there, high natural values yet poor water quality, and significant water management issues within the catchment.

To date we have been successful in having 7 landholders, organisations and businesses to commit to develop Site Water Stewardship Plans. These include:

The indicators for the pilot program are to:

• Somerville Secondary School

• improve water quality & ecology of Watson Creek

• TGA Australia (Wholesale Nursery)

• improve water security for water users

• Woodleigh School

• maintain & improve ecological conditions at the internationally significant Yaringa Marine National Park.

• John Allnutt (a farmer with 3 properties)

The project will achieve this by developing Site Water Stewardship Plans across the catchment. We are encouraging landholders to adopt water stewardship planning who use water, or could improve the management of water resources, running through their properties.

We are hopeful that the majority of the remainders will also commit over time as only 5 landholders have indicated they are not interested in the program.

Our aim is to choose early adopters which can represent, and showcase, water stewardship across the sectors and we have identified 29 early adopters, including horticulture farms, plant nurseries, chicken and livestock producers, an egg producer, a hardware store, schools and golf courses.

• Inghams Enterprises • Freshfield Alpacas

• “Westerfield” (Simon & Joyce Welsh)

The project will expand in years 2 and 3 to other catchments within the whole Biosphere region. We will do this via targeted information dissemination through landcare groups, agency briefings and regionally based information sessions. Helen Macpherson Smith Trust feature this project on their website as a Case Study.

Lance Lloyd Project Officer October 2015

PROJECT RAMSAR Protecting the ecological values of the Western Port Ramsar site. Overview The Western Port Biosphere Reserve’s charter as partner in the Australian Government funded Port Phillip and Western Port Catchment Authority’s “Protecting the ecological values of the Western Port Ramsar site” project is to engage the coastal communities of the northern Western Port region in the project. Assistance and support for landholders on their private properties in this region has been provided with weed control works to enhance and protect vital habitat corridors within their property. This includes educating landholders in weed control techniques and methodologies that incur minimal impact on flora and fauna. 2014/2015 Highlights • In the first quarter Fox monitoring was the focus of a workshop held for land holders. Malcolm Legg presented information on the threats foxes impose on native fauna and methods that landholders can use to monitor pest and native fauna movements, including the use of photo monitoring cameras. Following on from this workshop, members of the Friends of Warneet Group and the Cannon’s Creek Foreshore Management Committee together with five landholders received individual training in the use of photo-monitoring cameras, which have been deployed on their properties to collect baseline data.

Photo of a Swamp (Black) Wallaby in the Warneet Coastal Reserve

Photo of a cat in the Bonnie Watson Reserve, Cannons Creek

• T o understand and appreciate what fauna inhabits the region and improve management of the impact of feral animals on native wildlife we have asked residents of the region to help us ﬁnd out more by recording what they have seen on a fauna survey form. This fauna survey form was distributed in June 2015 and we will be reporting results back to the community in October 2015. • Two field days covering native plant and weed identification and control techniques were held, the first at the Warneet Coastal Reserve in May and the second at the Bonnie Watson Reserve, Cannons Creek in June 2015. Naturelinks Landscape Management staff presented information on weed control techniques. This was followed by a walk, during which participants had opportunity to expand their skills in identification of the many weed and native plants found in the area. As well as individual landholders, members of the Friends of Warneet Group and the Cannon’s Creek Foreshore Management Committee attended both field days and enjoyed the opportunity to exchange knowledge and ideas with those who attended the field day.

Sally Jacka Project Officer October 2015

BIOSPHERE RESEARCH COMMITTEE REPORT In the last year there have been some challenges for the Committee. Dr Mary Cole (AGPATH Pty Ltd) who was appointed Chair mid 2014 held that position until recently when pressures of business forced her to step down. We acknowledge her contribution and dedication during her time as Chair. Current members are Dr Terry Coates (Royal Botanic Gardens â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Cranbourne Annexe), Mr David Nicholls (Chisholm Institute), Mr Garrique Pergl (Mornington Peninsula Shire Council), Dr Sharron Pfueller, Mr Ian Stevenson and Dr Peter Woodgate (Cooperative Research Centre for Spatial Information), Dr Duncan Sutherland (Phillip Island Nature Parks), John Hick (DEPI), Mr Jeff Duke. The committee explored ways in which it could facilitate research. Two key approaches were to offer mentoring to people within the Biosphere in writing grant applications for projects and to approach tertiary institutions with a list of possible projects which might be suitable for Honours/Master students. Contact was made with academics at Melbourne and Monash Universities at the beginning of 2015, but no student uptake resulted â&#x20AC;&#x201C; possibly because insufficient lead time was allowed.

The committee commenced a process for prioritising areas for research so that the research strategy could be implemented most effectively. It was also recognised that a limitation to developing more research in the Biosphere was a lack of engagement of the community and failure to capture its skills and experience in research and conservation as well as a lack of financial resources. The Research Committee and the Board agreed that there was a need for greater collaboration with a view to expanding and defining the role and capacity of research committee activities within the biosphere. To facilitate better understanding it was agreed to conduct a joint review of expectations, structure and strategies. The initial workshop as part of this review has been completed and secondary working group meetings are being undertaken. The report of the outcomes of this review will be completed for consideration by the Board and Research Committee later this year. Members attend as individuals and do not represent any organisation at the meetings. Cecelia Witton, Executive Officer attended our meetings and has provided secretariat support.

Dr. Sharron Pfueller October 2015

2014 - 2015 ANNUAL REPORT

SOUTHERN BROWN BANDICOOT - MAL LEGG

SOUTHERN BROWN BANDICOOT RECOVERY PROGRAM The Southern Brown Bandicoot Recovery program has continued to consolidate its activities. The Southern Brown Bandicoot Regional Recovery Group has meet on its quarterly schedule. It has considered • its role and its terms of reference and opted to function as an information exchange.

The decision under the Melbourne Strategic Assessment (MSA) for the EPBC Act was delivered. This provides a Species Strategy which includes wildlife corridors within the Urban Growth Boundary but relies on voluntary mechanisms to connect the nature conservation reserves. The Strategy calls for an integrated predator program to achieve landscape connectivity. Implementing and improving that strategy is a major challenge . The SBB Regional Recovery Group has been invited to participate in the MSA Stakeholders Group – a forum to advise the State on this major effort to improve the natural environment and sustainability in Melbourne’s southeast region. The EPBC conservation status of the bandicoot was reviewed by the Commonwealth Department of the Environment. Members of the SBB Regional Recovery Group have been very active making submissions to the Department of the Environment and to the State Government aiming to improve the scientific advice being considered, providing designs and specifications of wildlife corridors and providing data on the criteria for determining the conservation status. This included providing advice to the EPBC referrals for the Pakenham Rail Upgrade, the Vic Road Koo Wee Rup Bypass and development in the Yaringa area.

• t he Recovery Plan was examined and an action plan developed selecting projects that are a priority and which can be implemented in the immediate future. These include (but are not restricted to) –

As part of the Biosphere’s Growing Connections project the wildlife monitoring cameras have been successfully deployed –

• a genetic study to help set the priorities for the local populations,

• a t random sites (to measure distribution and the use of habitats for bandicoots and selected other species) and to

• habitat works on public and private land, and

• m onitor at places of special interest.

• responsible pet management.

Despite the vast number of photographs obtained identification of the fauna are up to date . Great progress has been made in preparing the occupancy tables, used to calculate the probability of occupancy - the new statistic that much improves on yesteryears “trapping effort”. We have added partners, Deakin University – Sarah Maclagan, Melbourne Water and Nature Watch of the Victorian National Parks association.

These tasks will be implemented with partners and stakeholders where they are not resourced through the Biosphere. As with all groups, sourcing funds for the tasks in the Recovery Plan is an ongoing issue. The Bandicoot Biscuit Cutters (with recipe and bandicoot interpretation materials) continue to be popular.

• at fixed sites (to monitor changes over time), and

I thank all the members of council, agencies and community who contribute, especially the Co-Chair Sarah Maclagan for 2014-2015. I acknowledge the support of the Western Port Biosphere and the Growing Connections Project in furthering the work of the SBB Bandicoot Recovery Program

David Nicholls Co-Chair - Southern Brown Bandicoot Regional Recovery Group October 2015

THE WESTERN PORT CATCHMENT COMMITTEE (WPCC) The Western Port Catchment Committeeis an independent community/agency liaison group with an interest in the sustainability of the Western Port catchment. Supported by the Biosphere Foundation, its secretariat is located at the Biosphere Foundation’s office in Hastings. The WPCC provides a networking forum to: • P romote an exchange of information and ideas between agencies, authorities and community. • Help identify new and emerging issues and contribute to problem solving processes. • Provide constructive feedback and comments on issues of local, regional and international importance. • Advocate, support and help facilitate programs for the protection and enhancement of the Western Port environment. • Assist Melbourne Water and the Port Phillip & Western Port Catchment Management Authority to identify priorities within the catchment. • Help initiate, facilitate, promote and maximize locally important on-ground projects.

2014-2015 was an active year for the WPCC and meetings were well attended with presentations on topics such as: • Local Coastal Hazards - Greg Hunt of SECCCA • Blue Carbon - Dr Paul Carnell • C oal Seam Gas This year Western Port Biosphere Foundation and Phillip Island Nature Parks supported the Western Port Catchment Committee hosting a boat tour of southern Western Port for members and community on 19th February 2015. The boat trip was a great example of how the Catchment Committee brings people together to exchange information and ideas. The trip was a chance to explore the southern section of Western Port and see our marine environment up close. For many people this was their first chance to explore this area first-hand. Representatives from community groups, Parks Victoria and local government joined with the Biosphere Foundation in the opportunity. Participants were able to share specialist knowledge about the conservation work that takes place is this incredible marine area. The boat visited Seal Rocks, Reef Island and Elizabeth Island, as well as looking at Middle Bank, the channels, the Phillip Island Surfing Reserves. For further information, please contact Ian Stevenson at ian@biosphere.org.au or call the office on 0359 792 167.

2014 - 2015 ANNUAL REPORT

MT ELIZA FARMERS MARKET - ALISON GRIFFITHS

MORNINGTON PENINSULA AND WESTERN PORT BIOSPHERE RESERVE FOUNDATION LIMITED (TRADING AS WESTERN PORT BIOSPHERE RESERVE) ACN 107 484 408

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2015

Contents (Financial Statements)

Directors Report

Auditor’s Independence Declaration

Financial Statements - Profit or Loss & Other Comprehensive Income

- Financial Position

- Changes in Equity

- Cash Flows

Notes to the Financial Statements

Director’s Declaration

Independent Auditors Report

WESTERN PORT BIOSPHERE RESERVE ACN 107 484 408 DIRECTORS REPORT Western Port Biosphere Reserve

Directors’ Report

(ACN 107 484 408)

DIRECTORS’ REPORT Your directors present their report on the Company for the financial year ended 30 June 2015. Directors The names of the directors in office at any time during, or since the end of, the year are: Director Duncan Malcolm Robert Alexander Gell Rodney Stuart Anderson David Lindsay Garnock Libby Jude Mick Morland Neil Rankine Jeffrey Weir David Livingstone Young

Alternate

Appointment Date 12/11/2014

Cessation Date 12/11/2014

Peter Woodgate Martin Teplik

Directors have been in office since the start of the financial year to the date of this report unless otherwise stated. Principal Activity The principal activity of the Company during the financial year was conservation, scientific research and education. Objectives The Company’s short-term objectives are to:  Develop and implement communications strategy, working with stakeholders and partners to build the profile of the organisation and Biosphere brand;  Identify and secure funding opportunities and increase annual discretionary budget; and  Implement existing programs to improve sustainable development outcomes. The Company’s long-term objectives are to:  Achieve the strategic objectives detailed in the Living Strategy; o Natural Environment and Biodiversity Conservation; o Sustainable Development on a Regional Scale; o Logistical Support including targeted research, monitoring, evaluation of progress in sustainability; and o Partnerships and Governance to enable effective delivery of Biosphere objectives. Strategies To achieve its stated objectives, the Company has adopted the following strategies:  Implementation of the Living Strategy through targeted business plans directed at specific objectives Key Performance Measures The Company measures its performance through the use of both quantitative and qualitative benchmarks. The benchmarks will be used by the Directors to assess the financial sustainability of the Company and whether the Company’s short-term and long-term objectives are being achieved. The Company has a range of measures required by its Funders. These measures apply to all programs and services funded.

3 32

Western Port Biosphere Reserve

Directors’ Report

(ACN 107 484 408)

Details of the directors Director’s Name: Position held: Special responsibilities: Qualifications: Experience:

Duncan Malcolm, AM Chairperson Chair of the Board, Member of Executive Honorary Fellow at Monash University 30 years’ experience on a range of boards, predominately in the public sector. He is a former Chair and Deputy Chair of the Rural Water Commission/Corporation of Victoria, a former Commissioner with East Gippsland Shire Council, a former Chair of the Gippsland Coastal Board and the East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority. Other roles include; former national Chair of the Irrigation Association of Australia Ltd., former Chair of The Australian Irrigation Council, Member and Chair of The Victorian Environmental Assessment Council and several other former board memberships including East Gippsland Water and Gippsland Water. Current roles include; Director of Gippsland Medicare Local, Trustee of the Australian Landscape Trust, Trustee of the McPherson Smith Rural Fund and Chair of the Gippsland Vehicle Collection. Duncan is a longtime resident of Biosdale in Victoria, where he has an irrigation property on which he previously dairy farmed and grew vegetables. He was made a Member of The Order of Australia in 2007, had been an Honorary Justice of the Peace since 1984.

Director’s Name: Position held: Special responsibilities: Qualifications: Experience:

Robert Alexander Gell Chairperson Chair of the Board, Member of Executive BSc (Hons), FEIANZ, FRGS Company director, environmental geographer and educator, sustainability strategist, documentary maker and media consultant, photographer, author, local government councillor President Greening Australia Ltd, Victorian Coastal Council, Director WPc Group Rodney Stuart Anderson Director Deputy Chair, Member of Executive, Minister's nominee on Board of Directors BSc (Hons) Environmental Planner and Policy Analyst. Senior Victorian Public Servant with experience in coastal planning, forest biodiversity, climate change adaptation and carbon policy, and regional program delivery. David Lindsay Garnock Director None Captain CSC RAN (ret’d) Son of grazier; long-serving decorated Naval Officer; training consultant; experienced coordinator of emergency response, relief and recovery operations and policies; now Councillor for the Cerberus Ward in the Mornington Peninsula Shire

4 33

WESTERN PORT BIOSPHERE RESERVE ACN 107 484 408 DIRECTORS REPORT cont. Western Port Biosphere Reserve

Directors’ Report

(ACN 107 484 408)

Details of the directors (Continued) Director’s Name: Position held: Special responsibilities: Qualifications: Experience:

Libby Jude Director None Bachelor of Science, Grad Diploma (Applied Science), Diploma (Management) Over 17 years’ experience in park management with Parks Victoria, currently in a senior manager role as District Manager covering South East Melbourne. Experienced fire fighter with DEPI, including as a qualified Operations Officer and Regional Agency Commander, Authorised Officer under various land management Acts of Parliament

Director’s Name: Position held: Special responsibilities: Qualifications: Experience:

Mick Morland Director Secretary/Public Officer/ Member of Executive CPA ( Melbourne university) Business Owner, Company Director Councillor City of Casey/Mayor 20 Years President/ Director Rotary Chairman South East Australia Transport Study Chairman Conservation City of Casey 18 years

Director’s Name: Position held: Special responsibilities: Qualifications: Experience:

Neil Rankine Director None B Sc (Hons), Dip Ed. Councillor with the Bass Coast Shire Council Interests include; environmental, economic and social sustainability

Director’s Name: Position held: Special responsibilities: Qualifications: Experience:

Jeffery Weir Director Honorary Treasurer, Member of Executive B Sc;M Sc;DipEd;MFIA 20 years of experience in management of not for profit organisation focusing on marine sciences and development of education programs, Executive Director Dolphin Research Institute, Member Central Coastal Board

Director’s Name: Position held: Special responsibilities: Qualifications: Experience:

David Livingstone Young Director None Diploma Farm Management Farmer, Councillor Cardinia Shire, Victorian Farmers Federation, Trust for Nature Covenanter

5 34

WESTERN PORT BIOSPHERE RESERVE ACN 107 484 408 AUDITOR’S INDEPENDENCE DECLARATION

WESTERN PORT BIOSPHERE RESERVE ACN 107 484 408 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Western Port Biosphere Reserve (ACN 107 484 408)

Western Port Biosphere Reserve STATEMENT PROFIT OR LOSS AND OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (ACN 107 484OF 408) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2015 Note

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2014

30 June 2015 $

Note

Continuing operations Revenue from operating activities

CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES Other income Grants received Membership fees received Depreciation expense Other income received Employee benefits expense Payments to suppliers and employees Occupancy expenses Interest received Project expenses Net cash provided by/(used in) operating activities Contractor expenses Other expenses CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES Deficit before tax expense Purchases of plant and equipment Net cash used in investing activities Income tax expense Deficit for the year Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year Other comprehensive income, net of income tax Cash and cash equivalents at end of year Other comprehensive income for the year, net of income tax Total other comprehensive income for the year

2 3

11(b)

1(a) 3 11(a)

30 June 2014 $

30 June 2014 $ 513,924

30 June 2013 $ 945,151

2,193 856,133 1,326 (2,357) 63,876 (87,729) (890,854) (26,978) 2,376 (414,877) 32,857 (37,948) (53,772) (1,046) (1,046) (53,772) 31,811 192,671 224,482 -

7,831 302,621 1,568 (2,895) 61,726 (76,321) (473,837) (26,019) 8,786 (811,315) (99,136) (8,355) (28,882) (805) (7,528) (7,528) (805) (106,664) 299,335 192,671 -

Total comprehensive deficit for the year

(53,772)

(805)

Deficit attributable to: Members of the company Deficit for the year

(53,772) (53,772)

(805) (805)

Total comprehensive deficit attributable to: Members of the company Total comprehensive deficit for the year

(53,772) (53,772)

(805) (805)

The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements. 8 The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements.

WESTERN PORT BIOSPHERE RESERVE ACN 107 484 408 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS cont. Western Port Biosphere Reserve (ACN 107 484 408)

Western Port Biosphere Reserve (ACN 107 484OF 408)FINANCIAL POSITION STATEMENT AS AT 30 JUNE 2015 Note

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2014 ASSETS CURRENT ASSETS Cash and cash equivalents CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES Trade and other receivables Grants received Other assets Membership fees received TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS Other income received Payments to suppliers and employees NON-CURRENT ASSETS Interest received Property, plant and equipment Net cash provided by/(used in) operating activities TOTAL NON-CURRENT ASSETS TOTAL ASSETS CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES Purchases of plant and equipment LIABILITIES Net cash used in investing activities CURRENT LIABILITIES Trade and other payables Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Unexpended grant revenue Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year Provisions Cash and cash equivalents at end of year TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES TOTAL LIABILITIES

30 June 2015 $

Note 4 5

7 8 9

11(b)

11(a)

30 June 2014 $

30 June 2013 $

195,923 7,288 856,133 1,855 1,326 205,066 63,876 (890,854) 2,376 5,543 32,857 5,543

224,482 10,972 302,621 1,784 1,568 237,238 61,726 (473,837) 8,786 6,712 (99,136) 6,712

210,609

243,950

(1,046) (1,046)

(7,528) (7,528)

70,959 31,811 73,163 192,671 17,755 224,482 161,877

103,862 (106,664) 27,018 299,335 10,566 192,671 141,446

161,877

141,446

NET ASSETS

48,732

102,504

EQUITY Retained surplus TOTAL EQUITY

48,732 48,732

102,504 102,504

The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements.

9 The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements. 38

30 June 2014 $

Western Port Biosphere Reserve (ACN 107 484 408)

Western Port Biosphere Reserve (ACN 107 484OF 408) STATEMENT CHANGES IN EQUITY FOR YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2015 STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2014 Note Balance at 1 July 2013 CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES Deficit for the year Grants received Other comprehensive income for the year Membership fees received Total comprehensive income for the year Other income received Payments to suppliers and employees Balance at received 30 June 2014 Interest Net cash provided by/(used in) operating activities Balance at 1 July 2014

11(b)

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES Deficit for the year Purchases of plant and equipment Other comprehensive income foractivities the year Net cash used in investing Total comprehensive deficit for the year

Retained Surplus $ 30 June 2014 $ 103,309

Total $ 30 June 2013 $ 103,309

(805) 856,133 1,326 (805) 63,876 (890,854) 102,504 2,376 32,857 102,504

(805) 302,621 1,568 (805) 61,726 (473,837) 102,504 8,786 (99,136) 102,504

(53,772) (1,046) (1,046)

(53,772) (7,528) (7,528)

31,811 48,732 192,671 224,482

(106,664) 102,504 48,732 299,335 192,671

(53,772)

Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Balance 30cash Juneequivalents 2015 Cash at and at beginning of year Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

11(a)

(53,772)

The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements.

10 The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements.

WESTERN PORT BIOSPHERE RESERVE ACN 107 484 408 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS cont. Western Port Biosphere Reserve (ACN 107 484 408)

Western Port Biosphere Reserve (ACN 107 484OF 408)CASH FLOWS STATEMENT FOR YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2015 Note

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2014 CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES Grants received Membership fees received CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES Other income received Grants received Payments to suppliers and employees Membership fees received Interest received Other income received Net cash (used in)/ provided by operating activities Payments to suppliers and employees Interest received CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES Net cash provided by/(used in) operating activities Purchases of plant and equipment Net cash used in investing activities CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES Purchases of plant and equipment Net (decrease)/ increase in cash and cash equivalents Net cash used in investing activities Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year Cash and cash equivalents at end of year Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

30 June 2015 $

Note

11(b) 11(b)

11(a) 11(a)

30 June 2014 $ 514,717 1,178 38,861 856,133 (584,220) 1,326 2,093 63,876 (27,371) (890,854) 2,376 32,857 (1,188) (1,188)

30 June 2013 $ 856,133 1,326 63,876 302,621 (890,854) 1,568 2,376 61,726 32,857 (473,837) 8,786 (99,136) (1,046) (1,046)

(1,046) (28,559) (1,046) 224,482 195,923 31,811 192,671 224,482

(7,528) 31,811 (7,528) 192,671 224,482 (106,664) 299,335 192,671

The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements.

11 The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements. 40

30 June 2014 $

WESTERN PORT BIOSPHERE RESERVE ACN 107 484 408 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Western Port Biosphere Reserve

Notes to the Financial Statements For the Year Ended 30 June 2015

(ACN 107 484 408)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2015 NOTE 1: STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES The financial statements are for Mornington Peninsula and Western Port Biosphere Reserve Foundation Limited trading as Western Port Biosphere Reserve (Western Port Biosphere Reserve) as an individual entity, incorporated and domiciled in Australia. Western Port Biosphere Reserve is a not-for-profit company limited by guarantee. Statement of Compliance The financial report is general purpose financial statements that have been prepared in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Reduced Disclosure Requirements of the Australian Accounting Standards Board and the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012. Australian Accounting Standards set out accounting policies that the AASB has concluded would result in a financial statement containing relevant and reliable information about transactions, events and conditions. Material accounting policies adopted in the preparation of this financial statement are presented below. They have been consistently applied unless otherwise stated. Basis of Preparation The financial statement has been prepared on an accruals basis and is based on historical costs, modified, where applicable, by the measurement of fair value of selected non-current assets, financial assets and financial liabilities. Historical cost is generally based on the fair values of the consideration given in exchange for assets. All amounts are presented in Australian dollars, unless otherwise noted. Accounting Policies The accounting policies set out below have been applied consistently to all periods presented in these financial statements, except as explained under changes in accounting policies. (a) Income Tax The company is considered to be exempt from income tax under Subdivision 50-B of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 as a charitable institution. (b) Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand, deposits held at call with banks, other short-term highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, and bank overdrafts. Bank overdrafts are shown within short-term borrowings in current liabilities on the statement of financial position. (c) Plant and Equipment Plant and equipment, other than plant and equipment acquired at incorporation, are brought to account at cost less, where applicable, any accumulated depreciation and impairment losses. Historical cost includes expenditure that is directly attributable to the acquisition of the assets. Subsequent costs are included in the assetâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s carrying amount or recognised as a separate asset, as appropriate, only when it is probable that future economic benefits associated with the item will flow to the entity and the cost of the item can be measured reliably. All other repairs and maintenance are charged to profit and loss during the financial period in which they are incurred. The carrying amount of plant and equipment is reviewed annually to ensure it is not in excess of the recoverable amount from these assets. The recoverable amount is assessed on the basis of the estimated replacement cost of the asset. The cost of plant and equipment constructed within the company includes the cost of materials, direct labour, borrowing costs and an appropriate proportion of fixed and variable overheads. Depreciation The depreciable amount of all plant and equipment are depreciated over their useful lives to the company commencing from the time the asset is held available for use.

12 41

WESTERN PORT BIOSPHERE RESERVE ACN 107 484 408 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS cont. Western Port Biosphere Reserve

Notes to the Financial Statements For the Year Ended 30 June 2015

(ACN 107 484 408)

NOTE 1: STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED) (c) Plant and Equipment (continued) The depreciation method and rates used for each class of depreciable asset are: Class of Plant and Equipment Furniture and fittings Office equipment Computer equipment

Depreciation rates 33.33% 33% 33.33%

Depreciation method Straight line Straight line Straight line

The assets’ residual values and useful lives are reviewed, and adjusted if appropriate, at each statement of financial performance date. An asset’s carrying amount is written down immediately to its recoverable amount if the asset’s carrying amount is greater than its estimated recoverable amount. Gains and losses on disposals are determined by comparing proceeds with the carrying amount. These gains or losses are included in the profit and loss. (d) Impairment of Assets At each reporting date, the company reviews the carrying values of its assets to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have been impaired. If such an indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset, being the higher of the asset’s fair value less costs to sell and replacement cost, is compared to the asset’s carrying value. Any excess of the asset’s carrying value over its recoverable amount is expensed, unless the asset is carried at a revalued amount, the impairment loss is then treated as a revaluation decrease. (e) Financial Instruments Initial Recognition and Measurement Financial assets and financial liabilities are recognised when the company becomes a party to the contractual provisions to the instrument. For financial assets, this is equivalent to the date that the company commits itself to either purchase or sell the asset (i.e. trade date accounting is adopted). Financial instruments are initially measured at fair value plus transaction costs, except where the instrument is classified at fair value through profit or loss in which case transaction costs are expensed to profit or loss immediately. Classification and Subsequent Measurement Finance instruments are subsequently measured at fair value, amortised cost using the effective interest rate method or cost. Fair value represents the amount for which an asset could be exchanged or a liability settled, between knowledgeable, willing parties. Where available, quoted prices in an active market are used to determine fair value. In other circumstances, valuation techniques are adopted. Amortised cost is calculated as: (i) the amount at which the financial asset or financial liability is measured at initial recognition; (ii) less principal repayments; (iii) plus or minus the cumulative amortisation of the difference, if any, between the amount initially recognised and the maturity amount calculated using the effective interest method; and (iv) less any reduction for impairment. The effective interest method is used to allocate interest income or interest expense over the relevant period and is equivalent to the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash payments or receipts (including fees, transaction costs and other premiums or discounts) through the expected life (or when this cannot be reliably predicted, the contractual term) of the financial instrument to the net carrying amount of the financial asset or financial liability. Revisions to expected future net cash flows will necessitate an adjustment to the carrying value with a consequential recognition of an income or expense in profit or loss.

13 42

Western Port Biosphere Reserve

Notes to the Financial Statements For the Year Ended 30 June 2015

(ACN 107 484 408)

NOTE 1: STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED) (e) Financial Instruments (continued) i. Loans and receivables Loans and receivables are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market and are stated at amortised cost. ii. Financial liabilities, including trade and other payables Non-derivative financial liabilities (excluding financial guarantees) are subsequently measured at amortised cost. Fair value Fair value is determined based on current bid prices for all quoted investments. Valuation techniques are applied to determine the fair value for all unlisted securities, including recent armâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s length transactions, reference to similar instruments and option pricing models. Impairment At each reporting date, the company assesses whether there is objective evidence that a financial instrument has been impaired. In the case of available-for-sale financial instruments, a prolonged decline in the value of the instrument is considered to determine whether an impairment loss has arisen. Impairment losses are recognised immediately in profit and loss. Derecognition Financial assets are derecognised where the contractual rights to receipt of cash flows expire or the asset is transferred to another party whereby the entity no longer has any significant continuing involvement in the risks and benefits associated with the asset. Financial liabilities are derecognised where the related obligations are either discharged, cancelled or expire. The difference between the carrying value of the financial liability extinguished or transferred to another party and the fair value of consideration paid, including the transfer of non-cash assets or liabilities assumed, is recognised in profit or loss. (f)

Employee Benefits Provision is made for the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s liability for employee benefits arising from services rendered by employees to reporting date. Employee benefits that are expected to be settled within one year have been measured at the amounts expected to be paid when the liability is settled, plus related on-costs. Employee benefits payable later than one year have been measured at the present value of the estimated future cash outflows to be made for those benefits. Contributions are made by the company to an employee superannuation fund and are charged as expenses when incurred.

(g) Provisions Provisions are recognised when the company has a legal or constructive obligation, as a result of past events, for which it is probable that an outflow of economic benefits will result and that outflow can be reliably measured. Provisions recognised represent the best estimate of the amounts required to settle the obligation at reporting date. (h) Revenue Grant revenue is recognised in the profit and loss when the company obtains control of the grant and it is probable that the economic benefits gained from the grant will flow to the entity and the amount of the grant can be measured reliably. If conditions are attached to the grant which must be satisfied before it is eligible to receive the contribution, the recognition of the grant as revenue will be deferred until those conditions are satisfied.

14 43

WESTERN PORT BIOSPHERE RESERVE ACN 107 484 408 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS cont. Western Port Biosphere Reserve

Notes to the Financial Statements For the Year Ended 30 June 2015

(ACN 107 484 408)

NOTE 1: STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED) (h) Revenue (continued) When grant revenue is received whereby the company incurs an obligation to deliver economic value directly back to the contributor, this is considered a reciprocal transaction and the grant revenue is recognised in the statement of financial position as a liability until the service has been delivered to the contributor, otherwise the grant is recognised as income on receipt. Where the entity receives a non-reciprocal contribution of assets from the government and other parties for zero or a nominal value, these assets are recognised at fair value on the date of acquisition in the statement of financial position, with a corresponding amount of income recognised in the profit and loss. A liability for unexpended grants is recognised where there is a condition in the funding terms that unspent grants will be required to be repaid and the organisation has not received formal notification that they are entitled to retain this funding at balance date; or where the grantor of the funding (being the other party to the contract) has created an expectation that unspent funds should be treated as a current liability. Revenue from the rendering of a service, including membership revenue is recognised upon the delivery of the service to the customers. Interest revenue is recognised using the effective interest rate method. Donations are recognised as revenue when received. All revenue is stated net of the amount of goods and services tax (GST). (i)

Goods and Services Tax (GST) Revenues, expenses and assets are recognised net of the amount of associated GST, unless the GST incurred is not recoverable from the taxation authority. In this case it is recognised as part of the cost of acquisition of the asset or as part of the expense. Receivables and payables are stated inclusive of the amount of GST receivable or payable. The net amount of GST recoverable from, or payable to, the taxation authority is included with other receivables or payables in the Statement of Financial Position. Cash flows are presented on a gross basis. The GST components of cash flows arising from investing or financing activities which are recoverable from, or payable to the taxation authority, are presented as operating cash flows.

(j)

Leases Lease payments under operating leases, where substantially all the risk and benefits remain with the lessor, are charged as expenses on a straight line basis over the period of the lease.

(k) Critical Accounting Estimates and Judgments The Board of Directors evaluates estimates and judgments incorporated into the financial report based on historical knowledge and best available current information. Estimates assume a reasonable expectation of future events and are based on current trends and economic data, obtained both externally and within the company. Key estimates i. Impairment The company assesses impairment at each reporting date by evaluation of conditions and events specific to the company that may be indicative of impairment triggers. No impairment has been recognised in respect of property, plant and equipment at reporting date. Key judgments i. Provision for impairment of receivables The Board of Directors believe that receivables of $165 (2014: $250) included in trade receivables amounting are not recoverable and no amount has been regarded as doubtful. 15 44

Western Port Biosphere Reserve

Notes to the Financial Statements For the Year Ended 30 June 2015

(ACN 107 484 408)

NOTE 1: STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED) (l)

Adoption of new and revised accounting standards The company has adopted all of the new, revised or amending Accounting Standards and Interpretations issued by the Australian Accounting Standards Board ('AASB') that are mandatory for the current reporting period. Any new, revised or amending Accounting Standards or Interpretations that are not yet mandatory have not been early adopted. The adoption of these Accounting Standards and Interpretations did not have any significant impact on the financial performance or position of the company. The following Accounting Standards and Interpretations are most relevant to the company:   

AASB 2012-3 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards - Offsetting Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities AASB 2013-3 Amendments to AASB 136 - Recoverable Amount Disclosures for Non-Financial Assets. AASB 2014-1 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards (Parts A to C).

(m) Standards and Interpretations affecting the reported results or financial position There are no new and revised Standards and Interpretations adopted in these financial statements affecting the reporting results or financial position. (n) Going Concern Western Port Biosphere Reserve is dependent on grant funding for the majority of its revenue used to operate the business. At the date of this report the directors have no reason to believe the funding will not continue to support Western Port Biosphere Reserve.

16 45

WESTERN PORT BIOSPHERE RESERVE ACN 107 484 408 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS cont. Western Port Biosphere Reserve

Notes to the Financial Statements For the Year Ended 30 June 2015

(ACN 107 484 408)

Note

30 June 2015 $

30 June 2014 $

17,969 1,297 360,480 70,000 18,826

653 66,814 740,124 70,000 8,427

468,572

886,018

43,784 1,178 390

57,347 1,326 460

45,352

59,133

513,924

945,151

Other income - Interest income - Sundry income

2,093 100

2,376 5,455

Total other income

2,193

7,831

516,117

952,982

407 1,008 942

611 1,395 889

2,357

2,895

19,800

15,931

195,753 170

224,312 170

195,923

224,482

NOTE 2: REVENUE Revenue from government grants and other grants Grant revenue – Commonwealth government Grant revenue – State government Biodiversity fund Local government contributions Other grant revenue Other operating revenue - Administration costs recouped - Membership revenue - Donations Total operating revenue

Total revenue and other revenue

NOTE 3: DEFICIT FOR THE YEAR Deficit for the year, before income tax, is arrived at after taking into consideration the following expenses: Depreciation expense: - Computer equipment - Office equipment - Furniture and fittings

Operating lease expenses: - Office rental

NOTE 4: CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS Cash at bank Cash on hand 14 The effective interest rate on cash at bank was 1.00% (2014: 3.53%). Cash at bank is available on call.

17 46

Western Port Biosphere Reserve

Notes to the Financial Statements For the Year Ended 30 June 2015

(ACN 107 484 408)

Note NOTE 5: TRADE AND OTHER RECEIVABLES Trade receivables Less: Provision for impairment of receivables

(a)

Other receivables 14 Net GST receivable

30 June 2015 $

30 June 2014 $

5664 (165)

336 (250)

5,499 1,789

86 1,784

7,288 -

1,870 9,102

7,288

10,972

(a) Current trade and term receivables are unsecured and generally on 14 day terms. A provision for impairment is recognised when there is objective evidence that an individual trade or term receivable is impaired. The movement in the provision for impairment of receivables at reporting date are set out in the table below: Balance at 1 July Provision raised Reversal of provision

250 (85)

450 (200)

Balance at 30 June

165

250

3,000 (1,945)

3,000 (1,538)

1,055

1,462

9,466 (6,860)

8,278 (5,852)

2,606

2,426

4,672 (2,790)

4,672 (1,848)

1,882

2,824

5,543

6,712

NOTE 6: PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT Office equipment: At cost Accumulated depreciation

Computer equipment: At cost Accumulated depreciation

Furniture and fittings: At cost Accumulated depreciation Total property, plant and equipment

18 47

WESTERN PORT BIOSPHERE RESERVE ACN 107 484 408 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS cont. Western Port Biosphere Reserve

Notes to the Financial Statements For the Year Ended 30 June 2015

(ACN 107 484 408)

NOTE 6: PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT (Continued) Movements in Carrying Amounts Movement in the carrying amounts for each class of property, plant and equipment between the beginning and the end of the current financial year: Office Computer Furniture equipment equipment and fittings Total $ $ $ $ Balance at 1 July Additions Depreciation

1,462 (407)

2,426 1,188 (1,008)

2,824 (942)

6,712 1,188 (2,357)

Balance at 30 June

1,055

2,606

1,882

5,543

30 June 2015 $

30 June 2014 $

46,898 9,768

95,567 8,295

56,666 14,923

103,962 -

70,959

103,862

7,388 2,559 63,216

5,082 1,800 762 4,905 4,553 8,630 1,286 -

73,163

27,018

17,755

10,566

Note NOTE 7: TRADE AND OTHER PAYABLES Current Unsecured Trade payables Payroll liabilities 14 Net GST payable

NOTE 8: UNEXPENDED GRANT REVENUE Current Biodiversity fund grant Envirofund 10 Parks Victoria Mornington Peninsula Shire City of Casey â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Rutherford Inlet PPWCMA Ramsar Protection Western Port Communities for nature Helen Macpherson Smith Trust

NOTE 9: PROVISIONS Current Annual leave

Western Port Biosphere Reserve

Notes to the Financial Statements For the Year Ended 30 June 2015

(ACN 107 484 408)

NOTE 9: PROVISIONS (Continued) Movement in provisions

Balance at 1 July 2014 Revaluations and provisions raised during year Amounts used Balance at 30 June 2015

Annual leave $

Total $

10,566 22,407 (15,218)

17,755

Provision for Employee Entitlements A provision has been recognised for employee entitlements relating to annual leave for employees. The measurement and recognition criteria for employee benefits have been included in Note 1.

NOTE 10: MEMBERSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; GUARANTEE The Company is incorporated under the Corporations Act 2001 and is a company limited by guarantee. If the Company is wound up the constitution states that each member is required to contribute a maximum of $10 towards meeting any outstanding obligations of the Company. At 30 June 2015 the total amount that members of the company are liable to contribute if the Company is wound up is $610 (2014 $680). Note NOTE 11: CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS (a) Reconciliation of cash and cash equivalents Cash at the end of the financial year as shown in the statement of cash flows is reconciled to items in the statement of financial position as follows: Cash at bank Cash on hand Total cash and cash equivalents (b) Reconciliation of net cash provided by/(used in) operating activities with (deficit)/surplus for the year (Deficit)/Surplus for the year Non-cash flows included in the (deficit)/surplus for the year Depreciation Changes in assets and liabilities: Decrease/(Increase) in trade and other receivables Increase in other assets Increase in trade and other payables Increase/(decrease) in unearned grant income Increase in provisions

30 June 2015 $

30 June 2014 $

195,753 170

224,312 170

195,923

224,482

(53,772)

(805)

2,357

2,895

17,977 (71) (47,196) 46,145 7,189

3,705 (1,028) 49,371 (29,885) 8,604

(27,371)

32,857

WESTERN PORT BIOSPHERE RESERVE ACN 107 484 408 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS cont. Western Port Biosphere Reserve

Notes to the Financial Statements For the Year Ended 30 June 2015

(ACN 107 484 408)

Note

30 June 2015 $

30 June 2014 $

NOTE 12: KEY MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL COMPENSATION Any person(s) having authority or responsibility for planning and controlling the activities of the company, directly or indirectly, including any director (whether executive or otherwise) of that entity is considered key management personnel (KMP). The totals of remuneration paid to KMP of the company during the financial year are as follows: KMP compensation

The directors are the key management personnel and did not receive remuneration. NOTE 13: RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS Related parties include close family members of KMP and entities that are controlled or jointly controlled by those KMP individually or collectively with their close family members. Transactions with related parties are on normal commercial terms and conditions no more favourable than those available to other persons unless otherwise stated. There were no related party transactions during the year.

NOTE 14: FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT Financial Risk Management Policies The companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s financial instruments consist mainly of deposits with banks, short-term deposits and accounts receivable and payable. The totals for each category of financial instruments, measured in accordance with AASB 139 as detailed in the accounting policies to these financial statements, are as follows: Financial Assets Cash and cash equivalents Receivables (excluding statutory assets)

4 5

Total Financial Assets Financial Liabilities Financial liabilities at amortised cost: - Trade and other payables (excluding statutory liabilities) Total Financial Liabilities

195,923 7,288

224,482 1,870

203,211

226,352

56,666

103,862

56,666

103,862

NOTE 15: EVENTS AFTER REPORTING DATE No matters or circumstances have arisen since the end of the financial year which significantly affected or may significantly affect the operations of the company, the results of those operations, or the state of affairs of the company in future financial years.

NOTE 16: CONTINGENT LIABILITIES There are no contingent liabilities as at 30 June 2015 (2014: $nil).

21 50

Western Port Biosphere Reserve

Notes to the Financial Statements For the Year Ended 30 June 2015

(ACN 107 484 408)

Note

30 June 2015 $

30 June 2014 $

NOTE 17: LEASING COMMITMENTS Operating Lease Commitments Payable - minimum lease payments - not later than one year - later than one year and not later than five years

24,572 21,226

23,627 45,798

Present value of minimum lease payments

45,798

69,425

Operating leases comprise: (a) An office lease for Unit 2/184 Salmon Street, Hastings which is a non-cancellable operating lease contracted for but not capitalised in the financial statements with a 36-month term expiring in May 2017; and (b) An office lease for Shop 4, 37-41 Victoria Street, Hastings which is a non-cancellable operating lease contracted for but not capitalised in the financial statements with a 36-month term expiring in May 2014.

NOTE 18: COMPANY DETAILS The registered office and principal place of business of the company is: Western Port Biosphere Reserve Unit 2/184 Salmon Street HASTINGS VIC 3915

22 51

WESTERN PORT BIOSPHERE PORT BIOSPHERE RESERVE ACN RESERVE 107 484 408ACN 107 484 408 DIRECTORS DECLARATION REPORT

WESTERN PORT BIOSPHERE RESERVE ACN ACN 107 107 484 484 408 408 INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS REPORT AUDITORS REPORT

PORT BIOSPHERE RESERVE ACN 107 484 408 DIRECTORS REPORT

Mornington and Peninsula and Western Port Biosphere Reserve Foundation Ltd Unit 2, 184 Salmon street (Postal: PO Box 261) Hastings VICTORIA 3915 Australia P 03 59792 167 E info@biosphere.org.au