Western Port Biosphere 2014 Annual Report by Grendesign

2013 - 2014 ANNUAL REPORT

WATER TO WATER FESTIVAL - ALISON GRIFFITHS

Western Port Biosphere Reserve is proudly supported by:

WESTERN PORT BIOSPHERE ANNUAL REPORT 2013-2014 (COVER IMAGE CREDIT) LITTLE PIED CORMORANT - G EHMKE

Contents Page

Western Port Biosphere - Overview & Highlights

Message from the Chair

Message from the Executive Officer

The Directors (biographies)

Projects - Growing Connections

- Ramsar

Bisophere Research Committee Report

Southern Brown Bandicoot Recovery Program

Western Port Catchment Committee

Financial Statements

Contact Information

SOUTHERN WATER SKINK - MAL LEGG

WESTERN PORT BIOSPHERE RESERVE The Mornington Peninsula and Western Port Biosphere Reserve has a combined area of 2,142 square kilometers 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 in 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 the 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 species and communities, including rare, threatened and vulnerable species such as the endangered Southern Brown Bandicoot. Western Port is listed under the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance, especially as habitat for migratory species under the Ramsar Convention.

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 14 Biosphere Reserves in Australia and one of 685 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. Our Partners include: Bass Coast Shire, Cardinia Shire, City of Casey, Frankston City Council, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council and Parks Victoria.

2013 - 2014 ANNUAL REPORT 2013-2014 Highlights This year the biosphere has grown significantly. Conservation • Australian Government funded Growing Connections project -distribution of over $399,714 in total to organisations for on-ground works. • Camera monitoring and GIS technology adaptation is ongoing • Australian Government Caring for our Country Community Action grant work to engage community, improve habitat and conduct camera monitoring of the Southern Brown Bandicoot habitat with the Southern Brown Bandicoot Regional Recovery Group. • State Government Communities for Nature funding for on ground works and community engagement. • Protection of Ramsar values – raising awareness through community engagement.

• Website redevelopment in progress. • Building food industry partnerships to create a WaterStewardship program. • PhD student from Stockholm University conducts study on Growing Connections Project. • Biosphere Research Committee grows. • On-going partnerships with local government, Parks Victoria, government agencies and community groups. • Co-sponsorship of the Water to Water Indigenous Festival. • Working with City of Casey to engage landholders of Rutherford Inlet on issues impacting Western Port. Governance & Operations • Governance Review conducted. • UNESCO 10 year review completed and submitted. • Selection of new Chair.

• Western Port Biosphere Water Stewardship project – facilitating participation of key agency stakeholders in development of a pilot program proposal with Water Stewardship Australia and Inghams Enterprises. Communications • Implementation of our Communications Plan. • Participation on the PORTicpate environment committee. • Participation on the TootgarookWetlands agency working group. • Cross promotion of sustainability news and events through collaborative newsletter “The Biosphere Connector”. • Community workshops and talks on pest control, Ramsar values, and the Growing Connections community workshops. • Ongoing support of the Western Port Catchment Committee • Social media development.

CAPE WOOLAMAI - PHILLIP ISLAND NATURE PARKS

2013 - 2014 ANNUAL REPORT

The Man and the Biosphere program of UNESCO, and in particular the biosphere concept, is not an easy one to understand. Therefore, it is essential that the Western Port Biosphere’s primary proponents, our local governments, clearly understand what the concept is and support the notion that they supported at the Western Port Biosphere’s inception. Now is the time for our five councils, to take on a higher level of responsibility for the organisation’s future success; leadership across the region and critical support of the new Chair.

This means active promotion of biosphere values and coordination of programs that meet biosphere values, rather than operating independently of those values leaving the biosphere, with minimal resources, to its own devices. It is essential now that a broader group step up to embrace the biosphere concept through engagement in a broad suite of projects and programs. This has not been done to date. I am hopeful that by standing down, critical stakeholders will be forced to reassess their roles and commit to a higher level of engagement.

It’s also time for the State government to properly understand the “biosphere concept”, understand the opportunity of offers and support the biosphere initiative beyond the appointment of a valuable Ministerial representative on the Board.

CHAIR’S REPORT Having chaired the Western Port Biosphere for five terms, I have informed the Board during the year that I would not seek to continue in the role beyond the 2014 Annual General Meeting. My period as Chair has been an enjoyable and valuable one and I hope that during the last ten years my tenure has made a contribution to the establishment of the organisation as viable and important component of the Western Port community. It’s now time for someone else to take on the role that I have enjoyed for more than a decade. Someone with the vision, capability and drive to lead the organisation into its next period of development. I have been able to be Chair during the biosphere’s initial phase. It must move to a new level. The organisation has now “come of age”, is well established and financially stable with wonderful programs both in operations and in development. I hope that as the inaugural independent Chair, and in consideration of my somewhat public profile, together with my engagement over a number of years in other environmental not-for-profit and government organisations, I have been able to provide a level of comfort to key stakeholders in the Western Port Biosphere network. However, I believe it is now time for changes in the governance arrangements and fundamental leadership and support structure of the organisation. Over the last twelve months the Board has carefully responded to the critical need to review and recommend a restructured Board to facilitate improved governance and importantly improved engagement with the community and key stakeholders.

I continue to believe that the ‘Man and the Biosphere’ program is one of the most valuable concepts we have available to provide exemplars of a society that is potentially ecologically sustainable. I wish to thank everyone on the Board, past members of the Board and particularly Cecelia Witton our Executive Officer, for the support that I have been afforded over the last ten years. It has been a wonderful experience which I will always remember with an overwhelmingly positive view. I believe that the success that the Western Port Biosphere has achieved in recent times has largely been through reliance on the coordination efforts of the Executive Officer, the first to persist in the position for more than about 18 months, together with a few dedicated individuals who have refused to let the concept stall and whom I relied on through my term. May I also congratulate my friend and confidante Mr Duncan Malcolm AM as the new Chair of the Western Port Biosphere. I have had the pleasure of knowing Duncan for nearly fifteen years; we sat on the Victorian Coastal Council together. He is a very capable man and I wish him every success in his new role. The Western Port Biosphere will always be welcome to consider me a devoted supporter of its work; now and in the future and I will happily continue to support its objectives and programs. I look forward to the next ten years of the Western Port Biosphere and to it becoming a cornerstone of sustainability and sustainable practice, not only in the Western Port region, but in the nation. Rob Gell Chair, Western Port Biosphere 20 October 2014

I believe that the Board’s recommendation that the membership support the resolution to move to skills based board at the 2014 Annual General Meeting is critical to the future of the Western Port Biosphere Foundation and I recommend that you support the resolution.

• The mix of desired Board skills to reflect the Foundation’s strategy and priorities include: ·· Marketing /communications ·· Business /commerce ·· Tourism ·· Finance/accounting ·· Science /environment /ecology ·· Land management ·· Agriculture ·· Community engagement /social science ·· Fundraising ·· Research /education ·· Advocacy ·· Understanding of federal /state or local government ·· Experience in working with partner organisations in the biosphere

EXECUTIVE OFFICER REPORT The last year has seen changes in the Foundation, we have moved to new offices, Rob Gell is retiring and the new Chair Duncan Malcom, AM will take over. This year we completed UNESCO’s 10 year review of the Biosphere Reserve Foundation. We wish to express appreciation for the support and cooperation of our partners in assisting in the provision of information for this report. The Governance review completed late last year identified two options for Board structure – 1. Continue with the current representative model; or 2. Adopt a skills based board model The Board has opted to pursue a skills based model, which consists of a nine member, skills based board drawn from key sectors in the biosphere region and from the general community, as follows: • One director nominated by the five local governments in the biosphere. • One director nominated by the Traditional Owner groups in the biosphere region. • Partner organisations would be asked to nominate suitably skilled people. • The board would advertise for expressions of interest from the community at large in the biosphere region.

• A selection committee would be established to recommend up to seven directors for appointment, along with the local government and traditional owner director. The changes to the Constitution required to facilitate this option are to be considered by members at the Annual General Meeting. With the Growing Connections, project now in full flight, we have seen over $399,000 in funding paid out for on grounds works across the Biosphere Reserve during the 2013/2014 financial year. The Foundation has also successfully completed the implementation of several small grant programs during the year. With funding we have carried out planting days in Koo Wee Rup, run community workshops about feral animals and Ramsar values and supported community events. These programs were undertaken with participation of members of the Southern Brown Bandicoot Regional Recovery Group, volunteers from local community and schools. The Ramsar Protection Program facilitated by Port Phillip and Western Port Catchment Management Authority with Caring for our Country Funding has been extended and the Biosphere is undertaking community engagement further involve landholders in best management of their land. As stated, a major strength of the program is the cooperation and sharing of information between all involved and a focus of community participation. This spirit of cooperation and collaboration is being adopted in the Water Stewardship project proposal with the participation of government agencies, local government and industry working on a pilot program with the Biosphere and Water Stewardship Australia to develop standards based on the International Standard. The Board recently undertook to develop, with the cooperation of our partner councils, a report card for the Biosphere. Work on this project is now in progress. 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 Foundation is grateful to our local government partners for their ongoing support. Cecelia Witton Executive Officer October 2014

KOALA - ALISON GRIFFITHS

2013 - 2014 ANNUAL REPORT

CAPE WOOLAMAI - PHILLIP ISLAND NATURE PARKS

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Rod Anderson BSc (Hons)

David Garnock Captain CSC RAN (ret’d)

Rob Gell AM BSc (Hons), FEIANZ, FRGS

Libby Jude BSc, Grad Dip App Sc (Env Mgt)

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.

Rob is the Chairman of the Mornington Peninsula and Western Port Biosphere Reserve Foundation, Chairman of Wildlife Victoria and a member of the Victorian Coastal Council. He is a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society and an Inaugural Fellow of the Environment Institute of Australia and New Zealand. He is a coastal geomorphologist by training; he taught Environmental Science and Physical Geography at tertiary level, then for thirty one years presented television weather. In his professional life he works as an environmental and communications consultant and is a Director of bhive Group Pty Ltd and GreenCoWater Pty Ltd. He is a published author and a photographer.

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.

2013 - 2014 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.

LLOYD PARK - DEBBIE COFFEY

PROJECT GROWING CONNECTIONS Improving habitat corridors regionally across Western Port Biosphere. The Growing Connections Project, funded by the Australian Government, is working to connect with our partners to improve habitat corridors regionally across Western Port Biosphere. The project is meeting project outcomes with significant progress over the last twelve month period. Key achievements have included• undertaking 67 hectares of revegetation • 3 65 hectares of remnant vegetation restoration through our delivery partners, • deploying and managing over 60 cameras to monitor biodiversity values, • engaging the community to formulate a clear picture of priorities in biodiversity management, and • driving innovation in data collection and information dissemination. The project has also enhanced key partnerships with various community groups and organisations throughout the Biosphere.

Key outputs for the project during 2013/14 financial year

Biodiversity Plan The Biodiversity Plan being developed as part of the Growing Connections project 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. The development has been underway since early 2013 and to date a significant amount of effort has been put into the mapping of areas of biodiversity significance using best practice up to date scientific data combined with data provided through well attended community workshops. The maps produced through this process highlight the areas of significance within the landscape where both the scientific evidence and community knowledge combine. This mapping will be updated periodically to include the latest scientific data and community knowledge. The next step in the development of the plan will be to add the written aspect and clearly outline the targets and activities to be undertaken. This is in progress and will be completed during the 2014/15 financial year. The plan will provide the backbone for the works that will occur in all aspects of the project described below.

On ground works Revegetation and remnant vegetation restoration. During the 2013/14 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. Projects that contributed to connectivity across the landscape or protection of key areas of bushland along with the significant areas as identified within the Biodiversity Plan were sought from project partners. Outlined in the following table is a summary of the works undertaken within each local council area.

Bass Coast Activity

Project Partners

Outcome

Revegetation

Friends of Wonthaggi Heathland Phillip Island Nature Park

36.83ha

Remnant restoration

Bass Coast Landcare Network/Holden Friends of Wonthaggi Heathland Phillip Island Nature Park

226.13ha

Activity

Project Partners

Outcome

Revegetation

Western Port Catchment Landcare Network

6.5ha

Remnant restoration

Cranbourne Racing Centre and Recreation Reserve Committee of Management SBI Quarries Cranbourne Western Port Catchment Landcare Network

50ha

Activity

Project Partners

Outcome

Revegetation

Cardinia Catchment Landcare Group Cardinia Environment Coalition Southern Ranges Environment Alliance Western Port Catchment Landcare Network

16.6ha

Remnant restoration

Cardinia Catchment Landcare Group Cardinia Environment Coalition Southern Ranges Environment Alliance Western Port Catchment Landcare Network

69.6ha

Activity

Project Partners

Outcome

Revegetation

Frankston City Council

1.5ha

Remnant restoration

Frankston City Council

5.3ha

City of Casey

Cardinia Shire Council

Frankston City Council

Mornington Peninsula Shire Council Activity

Project Partners

Outcome

Revegetation

Mornington Railway Preservation Society

2.5

Remnant restoration

Habitat Restoration Fund Mornington Railway Preservation Society

18.8

Totals

Activity

Project Partners

Outcome

Funding

Revegetation

8 different delivery partners

67.93ha

$249,800

Remnant restoration

12 different delivery partners

365.83ha

$149,914

IAN MANSERGH, CHAIR OF THE GROWING CONNECTIONS PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION COMMITTEE. - ALISON GRIFFITHS

2013 - 2014 ANNUAL REPORT

SOUTHERN BROWN TREE FROG - MAL LEGG

Pest control Pest management is a key component of the Growing Connections project. During the 2013/14 financial year Growing Connections engaged Ecology Australia to undertake the development of a scientific plan to outline the priority areas in which we should be focusing our pest control works. Currently there are numerous organisations across the Biosphere landscape undertaking the control of pest animals, foxes primarily, with a varying degree of coordination between the different organisations planning and doing the work. The key purpose of the plan that has been developed is to ensure the works we undertake are complementary and align with the works undertaken by others in the most effective and efficient way possible. The plan is currently in draft form and will be available once complete. As part of the project the first meeting of the “Western Port Ark” was held. The purpose of the “Ark” is to bring all the people involved in planning predator control around Western Port together to drive innovation, standards, and collaboration between works. The second meeting of the Ark will be held in the coming months. On ground works have also been funded for the areas surrounding the Royal Botanic Gardens in Cranbourne which will continue until the end of December 2015. This work is a continuation of a project previously funded through various agencies such as the Department of Environment and Primary Industries and the Port Phillip and Western Port Catchment Management Authority and involves the control of foxes and cats. These works are being undertaken to aid the dispersal of the endangered Southern Brown Bandicoot from the large population at the Royal Botanic Gardens out into the wider landscape. The predator control works will link with the monitoring works described below through assessing the effectiveness of the predator control through analysing the distribution of both the predators and the Southern Brown Bandicoots. In doing this work we aim to gain an understanding of the levels of investment required to provide a sustained benefit to small mammal species. This will help guide future planning in both threatened fauna management and pest control activities.

Ecological Fire Management Expressions of interest were sought from each local council for project relating to ecological fire management. The brief was that the project needed to include a prescribed burn being undertaken for ecological purposes and a commitment to ongoing maintenance of the site and monitoring for changes due to the fire for the remaining period of the Growing Connections project (ends mid 2017). The City of Casey was successful in gaining the funds and will be undertaking a project on council land south of Blind Bight. The project will include a 2.2ha burn within the 100ha surrounding reserve and will include follow up weed control and pre and post burn flora survey to monitor the change over time of the floristics of the site.

Biodiversity Monitoring The Growing Connections project is undertaking a broad scale monitoring program focused on the endangered Southern Brown Bandicoot and its distribution across the Biosphere. This program involves the use of up to 65 motion sensing cameras being placed in a statistically random pattern across the focus area which will capture images of all animals that cross there path.

Most of the cameras are only put in place for one month and then moved to a new site, some of them however remain in the one location. The results from the monitoring will show where there are bandicoots present and where they are not. Statistical analysis will also take place and a pseudo measure of abundance will also be produced. This will only be a pseudo measure of abundance as to get actual abundance numbers it is necessary to capture and mark animals and analyse the rate of recapture – this cannot be done with a camera. The work will also focus on the Bandicoots predators, being cats and foxes, and in tandem with our predator control works, look into the relationship between predator control works and Bandicoot abundance. 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. Through Growing Connections the Biosphere 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 As part of the governance process an internal risk assessment of the project was undertaken by RM Consulting Group at the end of the 2013/14 financial year. The purpose of the risk assessment was to identify any areas where the project can improve in its activities to date and identify areas for improvement in the future.

Enabling Systems The Cooperative Research Centre for Spatial Information (CRCSI) have been engaged to undertake activities to enable us to more effectively undertake the works associated with this project. The first is the development of on ground data collection tools which will allow us to be in the field collecting all relevant spatial data using GPS technology for the monitoring, pest control, and revegetation and restoration aspects of this project. The first of these tools will be in use by the time this report is published. The second activity CRCSI is working on for the project is an online GIS environment. CRCSI also provide ongoing support for the mapping aspects of the Biodiversity Plan. The work undertaken by CRCSI will enable the Biosphere as a whole through the outcomes of the Growing Connections project, to more effectively communicate ideas and results of projects to the wider community. It will also allow for improved efficiency and effectiveness of staff, volunteers, and partners in the field.

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. Consultants were engaged and an Ecological Character Description of the wetland has recently been completed. Further studies and development of a catchment based Wetland Strategy and Land Use Management Plan are to be undertaken. The project and the Western Port Biosphere continue to play a supportive role in community activities relating to the wetland.

RHYLL WETLANDS - PHILLIP ISLAND NATURE PARKS

2013 - 2014 ANNUAL REPORT

PROJECT RAMSAR Protecting the ecological values of the Western Port Ramsar site. Overview The Western Port Biosphere Reserve is facilitating community activities as a partner in the Port Phillip and Western Port Catchment Management Authority’s ‘Protecting the ecological values of the Western Port Ramsar site’ project, funded by the Australian Government’s Caring for our Country program. Community activities began in May with an information session on wetland values and threats and a landholder survey. These set the scene for further workshops focusing on specific issues such as Fox monitoring and control and weed identification and control.

2013/2014 Highlights • Two Community workshops were held in northern Western Port: ·· An information session was held in Warneet to inform the community on Western Port Ramsar values and threats; to disseminate information on what sustainable management practices are occurring in the area, and to find out what activities participants want to undertake. Speakers included an ecologist with vast experience in the area and representatives from state and local government, farming, industry and community groups. ·· A workshop was held in Blind Bight to present information on the use of motion-sensing cameras to monitor feral and native fauna and feral animal monitoring and control being undertaken by Parks Victoria and local government on Parks and Crown land. • Motion sensing cameras have been installed on properties capturing videos of pest and native animals. • A survey was designed to assess landholders’ knowledge of Ramsar, the site’s values and threats and if and how people want to be engaged.

Effective fox control cannot be achieved without community support. For this reason the Western Port Biosphere Reserve is working with landholders to contribute to feral animal monitoring. Data collected from motion sensing cameras on private properties will augment past and current monitoring in the Ramsar Wetlands of northern Western Port.

BIOSPHERE RESEARCH COMMITTEE REPORT In the last year there have been changes to the Committee including a number of new members and attention from researchers overseas. The Committee’s continuing members are Dr Terry Coates (Royal Botanic Gardens – 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). The Committee warmly welcomed new members Dr Mary Cole (AGPATH Pty Ltd), Dr Duncan Sutherland (Phillip Island Nature Parks), John Hick (DEPI), Mr Geoff Duke and Ms Barbara Porter. Members attend as individuals and do not represent any organisation at the meetings. Cecelia Witton, Executive Officer of Western Port Biosphere has attended our meetings and Alison Griffiths-Hoelzer has prepared meeting minutes. The Research Committee farewelled Gillian Collins and thanked her for her contribution. Dr Sharron Pfueller resigned from the Chair’s position in July and continues as a member. Dr Cole has now replaced Dr Pfueller as Chair of the Research Committee and has back-up support from fellow committee members as required.

Mr Simon West, a PhD student at Stockholm University was awarded a visiting fellowship to the Centre of Excellence in Environmental decision making at RMIT in Melbourne. Simon was approved to conduct research in the context of the Growing Connections Project. The research focused on learning within eco-system management and how stakeholder participation can encourage learning around the integration of biodiversity conservation and economic development. Possibilities for research collaboration with AGPATH Pty Ltd and Phillip Island Nature Park are being explored and new avenues for resourcing will be investigated. John Wright from Parks Victoria presented an overview of the department’s research relevant to the Biosphere. Following input from attendees at a Research Forum held in June 2013, the committee compiled a list of research projects that the Biosphere could pursue, and others that have subsequently emerged. Before prioritising them the Committee suggested that criteria for doing that may be: • Feasibility for completing project with resources in place • Stakeholders who wish to participate and those who will be direct beneficiaries • Alignment with living strategy The Committee has recognised that developing more research in the Biosphere requires further engagement of the community as well as capturing its skills and experience in research and conservation; as well as financial resources. The Committee has proposed that a useful approach to facilitating research would be for it to engage people in the Biosphere who have research grant writing experience to mentor others who are interested in developing project proposals and applying for funds. Dr. Sharron Pfueller & Dr. Mary Cole Biosphere Research Committee September 2014

SEAL AT THE NOBBIES - PHILLIP ISLAND NATURE PARKS

2013 - 2014 ANNUAL REPORT

SOUTHERN BROWN BANDICOOT - MAL LEGG

2013 - 2014 ANNUAL REPORT

SOUTHERN BROWN BANDICOOT RECOVERY PROGRAM The Southern Brown Bandicoot Recovery program is one of the first projects initiated by the Biosphere in 2003. The project was suggested by the community of the Frankston Roundtable. It is a key task in the Living Strategy – the Biosphere’s Strategic planning instrument. The SBB Regional Recovery Group was formed in 2011 and has met quarterly. In this reporting year, there was an extra workshop to define more clearly the role of the Group. The State Government has been considering Melbourne’s Growth and its ecological responsibilities under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act. A special section of the EPBC Act - the Strategic Assessment - was used for the first time to achieve regional and landscape wide outcomes, thereby avoiding the deficiencies of approvals for single project developments. The EPBC-listed species and ecological community were considered with two major Species Strategies produced; one each for southern brown bandicoot and the growling grass frog. There are major recommendations for Melbourne’s Growth in its Biodiversity Conservation Strategy that apply to areas of the Biosphere Reserve. The Species Strategies only recently approved (August 2014) did not give all the protection sought, but there were large gains for the environment.

There was strong scientific advice that wildlife corridors reconnecting the landscape were an essential part of any successful conservation strategy. The Biosphere, the Regional Recovery Group, scientists and the community made a variety of submissions to the Commonwealth Department of Environment. The Commonwealth Department of Environment met and undertook site visits with the members of the Regional Recovery Group. The process was an invaluable and successful experience for the Recovery Group. It was able to give advice to the Biosphere and the Governments on the science as it affected conservation. Members of the Regional Recovery Group are contributing to the Biosphere biodiversity monitoring - as part of the Growing Connections project, providing objective scientific advice and voluntary scientific labour to the project. Camera trapping, using self-triggering cameras, is the primary tool to measure the probability of occupancy of bandicoots, other ground-dwelling native fauna and their pest predators, red fox, cats, feral pigs and black rats. Over sixty cameras have been deployed at 360 sites across northern Western Port. The required outcome is that these measures will guide the fox control program and other on-ground works improving efficiency and reducing the use of the 1080 poison. As with all groups, sourcing of funds is an ongoing issue and all opportunities are being explored. David Nicholls

MAP FIGURE : Wildlife monitoring cameras are deployed across northern Western Port. Some monitor like rain gauges working 24 hours a day. Others are moved monthly on a random basis or to study a particular experiment, for example monitoring Quail Island or Mt Cannibal FFR. Still others are managed on similar procedures in cooperation with the Growing Connections Project.

THE WESTERN PORT CATCHMENT COMMITTEE The Western Port Catchment Committee (WPCC) is 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 Foundation’s office in Hastings. The WPCC provides a networking forum to: • Promote 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.

2013-2014 was an active year for the WPCC and meetings were well attended. Over 160 interested members were registered at the end of June 2014. Highlights included a boat excursion on Western Port plus bi-monthly presentations on topics such as: • The Port of Hastings presented by CEO Mike Lean • Geology of Western Port, Phillip Island & Bass Coast presented my Mike Cleeland. • Penguin habitat restoration of the Summerland Peninsula, Phillip Island presented by Roz Jessop, Phillip Island Nature Parks. • Ecological history of the Kooweerup Swamp and associated grasslands presented by Jeff Yugovic. • Western Port’s environment research program overview presented by Rhys Coleman of Melbourne Water. • Mangrove revegetation project and associated research presented by Tom Hurst, Melbourne Water. • The Western Port Biosphere Growing Connections Project presented by Chris Chambers, Western Port Biosphere.

For further information, please contact Ian Stevenson at ian@biosphere.org.au or call the office on 0359 792 167.

THE WESTERN PORT CATCHMENT COMMITTEE - ALISON GRIFFITHS

2013 - 2014 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 2014

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 2014. Directors The names of the directors in office at any time during, or since the end of, the year are: Director Robert Alexander Gell Rodney Stuart Anderson Gillian Collins Graeme Davis David Lindsay Garnock Jane Jobe Libby Jude Mick Morland David Nicholls Neil Rankine Jeffrey Weir David Livingstone Young

Alternate

Appointment Date

16/11/2013 16/10/2013

Steve Chapple Neil Beddoe Nicola Ward

Cessation Date

16/11/2013 16/11/2013

05/06/2014

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 28

Western Port Biosphere Reserve

Directors’ Report

(ACN 107 484 408)

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

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. Gillian Collins Director None B.A. in English Literature and studied Adult Education at the Graduate level Extensive professional background in project and event management, and has volunteered for environmental causes her entire adult life.

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

Graeme Davis Director None B Sc. (Forestry) ANU; Dip Mgt (Public Mgt) CIAE Over 30 years post graduation experience in a wide range of public land, fire and wildlife management issues and public policy generally.

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

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

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

Jane Jobe Director Secretary and Public Officer, Member of Executive Bachelor of Applied Science (Environmental Science), Charles Sturt University, 2001 Bachelor of Business (Communication), Queensland University of Technology 1992 Director, Bass Coast Landcare Network, since 2010- Port Phillip and Westernport Catchment Management Authority since 2009, Committee member of Phillip Island Landcare Group Inc. since 2007

Experience:

4 29

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

David Nicholls Director None Master of Science – Zoology University of Western Australia Taught TAFE Diploma of Conservation and Land Management principally in Ecology and Wildlife Management at Chisholm Institute 29 years Holds honorary position on the Research Committee contributing to the Bandicoot Recovery - a biodiversity project of the Biosphere Reserve.

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:

Jeffrey 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 30

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 STATEMENT OF Biosphere PROFIT ORReserve LOSS AND OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (ACN 107 484 408) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2014 Note

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2014 Continuing operations Revenue from operating activities

CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES Other income Grants received Membership fees received Depreciation expense Other income Employee benefitsreceived 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 FLOWSbefore FROMtax INVESTING (Deficit)/Surplus expense ACTIVITIES Purchases of plant and equipment Net cash used in investing activities Income tax expense

30 June 2014 $

Note

2 3

11(b)

1(a)

(Deficit)/Surplus for the year Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents at net beginning of year Other comprehensive income, of income tax Cash and cash equivalents at end of year Other comprehensive income for the year, net of income tax

11(a)

30 June 2013 $

30 June 2014 945,151 $

30 June 2013 518,124 $

7,831 856,133 1,326 (2,895) 63,876 (76,321) (890,854) (26,019) 2,376 (811,315) 32,857 (8,355)

9,033 302,621 1,568 (1,716) 61,726 (12,246) (473,837) (20,157) 8,786 (363,180) (99,136) (49,140)

(28,882) (805) (1,046) (1,046) -

(18,645) 62,073 (7,528) (7,528) -

(805) 31,811 192,671 224,482 -

62,073 (106,664) 299,335 192,671 -

Total other comprehensive income for the year

Total comprehensive (deficit)/income for the year

(805)

62,073

(Deficit)/Surplus attributable to: Members of the company (Deficit)/Surplus for the year

(805) (805)

62,073 62,073

Total comprehensive (deficit)/income attributable to: Members of the company Total comprehensive (deficit)income for the year

(805) (805)

62,073 62,073

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) STATEMENT FINANCIAL POSITION AS AT 30 JUNE 2014 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

30 June 2014 $

Note 4 5

11(b)

30 June 2014 $

30 June 2013 $

224,482 10,972 856,133 1,784 1,326 237,238 63,876 (890,854) 2,376 6,712 32,857 6,712

192,671 14,677 302,621 756 1,568 208,104 61,726 (473,837) 8,786 8,561 (99,136) 8,561

243,950

216,665

(1,046) (1,046)

(7,528) (7,528)

103,862 31,811 27,018 192,671 10,566 224,482 141,446

54,491 (106,664) 56,903 299,335 1,962 192,671 113,356

TOTAL LIABILITIES

141,446

113,356

NET ASSETS

102,504

103,309

EQUITY Retained surplus TOTAL EQUITY

102,504 102,504

103,309 103,309

7 8 9

11(a)

The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements.

9 The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements. 34

30 June 2013 $

Western Port Biosphere Reserve (ACN 107 484 408)

Western Port Biosphere Reserve STATEMENT CHANGES IN EQUITY (ACN 107 484OF 408) FOR YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2014 STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2014 Note Balance at 1 July 2012 CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES Surplus 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 30 June 2013 Interest received Net cash provided by/(used in) operating activities Balance at 1 July 2013

11(b)

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES Deficit for the year Purchases of plant and equipment Other comprehensive income for the year Net cash used in investing activities Total comprehensive deficit for the year Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Balance 30cash June 2014 Cash at and equivalents at beginning of year Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

11(a)

Retained Surplus $ 30 June 2014 $ 41,236

Total $ 30 June 2013 $ 41,236

62,073 856,133 1,326 62,073 63,876 (890,854) 103,309 2,376 32,857 103,309

62,073 302,621 1,568 62,073 61,726 (473,837) 103,309 8,786 (99,136) 103,309

(805) (1,046) (1,046) (805)

(805) (7,528) (7,528) (805)

31,811 102,504 192,671 224,482

(106,664) 105,504 102,504 299,335 192,671

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) STATEMENT CASH FLOWS FOR YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2014 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 provided by/(used in) 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 increase/(decrease) 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 2014 $

Note

11(b) 11(b)

11(a) 11(a)

30 June 2014 $ 856,133 1,326 63,876 856,133 (890,854) 1,326 2,376 63,876 32,857 (890,854) 2,376 32,857 (1,046) (1,046)

30 June 2013 $ 302,621 1,568 61,726 302,621 (473,837) 1,568 8,786 61,726 (99,136) (473,837) 8,786 (99,136) (7,528) (7,528)

(1,046) 31,811 (1,046) 192,671 224,482 31,811 192,671 224,482

(7,528) (106,664) (7,528) 299,335 192,671 (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. 36

30 June 2013 $

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 2014

(ACN 107 484 408)

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2014 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 Corporations Act 2001. 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 37

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 2014

(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 38

Western Port Biosphere Reserve

Notes to the Financial Statements For the Year Ended 30 June 2014

(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.

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 2014

(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 $250 (2013: $450) included in trade receivables amounting are not recoverable and no amount has been regarded as doubtful. 15 40

Western Port Biosphere Reserve

Notes to the Financial Statements For the Year Ended 30 June 2014

(ACN 107 484 408)

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

Adoption of new and revised accounting standards The following new and revised Standards and Interpretations have been adopted in the current year and have affected the amounts reported in these financial statements. 

AASB 2011-2 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards arising from the Trans-Tasman Convergence Project - Reduced Disclosure Requirements, AASB 2012-7 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards arising from Reduced Disclosure Requirements and AASB 201211 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards - Reduced Disclosure Requirements and Other Amendments The company has applied AASB 2011-2, AASB 2012-7 and 2012-11 amendments from 1 July 2013, to the extent that they related to other standards already adopted by the consolidated entity. These amendments make numerous modifications to a range of Australian Accounting Standards and Interpretations to significantly reduce the company's disclosure requirements.



AASB 13 Fair Value Measurement and AASB 2011-8 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards arising from AASB 13 The company has applied AASB 13 and its consequential amendments from 1 July 2013. The standard provides a single robust measurement framework, with clear measurement objectives, for measuring fair value using the 'exit price' and provides guidance on measuring fair value when a market becomes less active. The 'highest and best use' approach is used to measure non-financial assets whereas liabilities are based on transfer value. The standard requires increased disclosures where fair value is used.



AASB 119 Employee Benefits (September 2011) and AASB 2011-10 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards arising from AASB 119 (September 2011) The company has applied AASB 119 and its consequential amendments from 1 July 2013. The standard eliminates the corridor approach for the deferral of gains and losses; streamlines the presentation of changes in assets and liabilities arising from defined benefit plans, including requiring re-measurements to be presented in other comprehensive income; and enhances the disclosure requirements for defined benefit plans. The standard also changed the definition of shortterm employee benefits, from 'due to' to 'expected to' be settled within 12 months. Annual leave that is not expected to be wholly settled within 12 months is now discounted allowing for expected salary levels in the future period when the leave is expected to be taken.



AASB 2012-2 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards - Disclosures - Offsetting Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities The company has applied AASB 2012-2 from 1 July 2013. The amendments enhance AASB 7 'Financial Instruments: Disclosures' and requires disclosure of information about rights of set-off and related arrangements, such as collateral agreements. The amendments apply to recognised financial instruments subject to an enforceable master netting arrangement or similar agreement.



AASB 2012-5 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards arising from Annual Improvements 2009-2011 Cycle The company has applied AASB 2012-5 from 1 July 2013. The amendments affect five Australian Accounting Standards as follows: Confirmation that repeat application of AASB 1 'First-time Adoption of Australian Accounting Standards' is permitted; Clarification of borrowing cost exemption in AASB 1; Clarification of the comparative information requirements when an entity provides an optional third column or is required to present a third statement of financial position in accordance with AASB 101 'Presentation of Financial Statements'; Clarification that servicing of equipment is covered by AASB 116 'Property, Plant and Equipment', if such equipment is used for more than one period; clarification that the tax effect of distributions to holders of equity instruments and equity transaction costs in AASB 132 'Financial Instruments: Presentation' should be accounted for in accordance with AASB 112 'Income Taxes'; and clarification of the financial reporting requirements in AASB 134 'Interim Financial Reporting' and the disclosure requirements of segment assets and liabilities.

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 2014

(ACN 107 484 408)

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

Adoption of new and revised accounting standards (Continued ď&#x20AC; AASB 2012-10 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards - Transition Guidance and Other Amendments The company has applied AASB 2012-10 amendments from 1 July 2013, which amends AASB 10 and related standards for the transition guidance relevant to the initial application of those standards. The amendments clarify the circumstances in which adjustments to an entity's previous accounting for its involvement with other entities are required and the timing of such adjustments.

(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.

Western Port Biosphere Reserve

Notes to the Financial Statements For the Year Ended 30 June 2014

(ACN 107 484 408)

Note NOTE 2: REVENUE Revenue from government grants and other grants Grant revenue â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Commonwealth government Grant revenue â&#x20AC;&#x201C; State government Biodiversity fund Local government contributions Other grant revenue Other operating revenue - Administration costs recouped - Membership revenue - Donations

30 June 2014 $

30 June 2013 $

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

309,554 49,041 95,818 5,337

886,018

459,750

57,347 1,326 460

53,321 1,568 3,485

59,133

58,374

945,151

518,124

Other income - Interest income - Sundry income

2,376 5,455

8,786 247

Total other income

7,831

9,033

952,982

527,157

611 1,395 889

917 266 533

2,895

1,716

15,931

16,215

224,312 170

192,501 170

224,482

192,671

Total operating revenue

Total revenue and other revenue

NOTE 3: (DEFICIT)/SURPLUS FOR THE YEAR (Deficit)/Surplus 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 3.53% (2013: 3.57%). Cash at bank is available on call.

18 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 2014

(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 2014 $

30 June 2013 $

336 (250)

1,150 (450)

86 1,784

700 1,700

1,870 9,102

2,400 12,277

10,972

14,677

(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 Balance at 30 June

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

19 44

450 (200)

450 -

250

450

3,000 (1,538)

3,000 (927)

1,462

2,073

8,278 (5,852)

8,278 (4,457)

2,426

3,821

4,672 (1,848)

3,626 (959)

2,824

2,667

6,712

8,561

Western Port Biosphere Reserve

Notes to the Financial Statements For the Year Ended 30 June 2014

(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

2,073 (611)

3,821 (1,395)

2,667 1,046 (889)

8,561 1,046 (2,895)

Balance at 30 June

1,462

2,426

2,824

6,712

30 June 2014 $

30 June 2013 $

95,567 8,295

46,400 8,091

103,862

54,491

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

44,696 1,800 3,228 5,456 6 -

27,018

56,903

10,566

1,962

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

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

NOTE 9: PROVISIONS Current Annual leave

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 2014

(ACN 107 484 408)

NOTE 9: PROVISIONS (Continued) Movement in provisions

Annual leave $

Total $

Balance at 1 July 2013 Revaluations and provisions raised during year Amounts used

1,962 15,239 (6,635)

Balance at 30 June 2014

10,566

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 2014 the total amount that members of the company are liable to contribute if the company is wound up is $10 per member. 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 Decrease in unearned grant income Increase in provisions

30 June 2014 $

30 June 2013 $

224,312 170

192,501 170

224,482

192,671

(805)

62,073

2,895

1,716

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

(938) 21,196 (184,640) 1,457

32,857

(99,136)

Western Port Biosphere Reserve

Notes to the Financial Statements For the Year Ended 30 June 2014

(ACN 107 484 408)

Note

30 June 2014 $

30 June 2013 $

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

224,482 1,870

192,671 2,400

226,352

195,071

103,862

54,491

103,862

54,491

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 2014 (2013: $nil).

22 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 2014

(ACN 107 484 408)

Note

30 June 2014 $

30 June 2013 $

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

23,627 45,798

15,107 -

Present value of minimum lease payments

69,425

15,107

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

23 48

WESTERN PORT BIOSPHERE RESERVE ACN 107 484 408 DIRECTORS DECLARATION

WESTERN PORT BIOSPHERE RESERVE ACN 107 484 408 INDEPENDENT AUDITORS 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