R 101013 ravensthorpe cmp final oct 2011 complete lr

Coastal Management Plan 2011 - 2021

Final Revision 1 October 2011

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan 2011 – 2021

Prepared for the Shire of Ravensthorpe Prepared by:

Land Insights 1/1 Alvan Street Mt Lawley PO Box 289 Mt Lawley WA 6929 Phone: (08) 9271 8506 Fax: (08) 6161 2597 Document details:

File: 894 Revision 1 Date: October 2011 Author: SR Verified: MT Approved: MT Important Note:

"The information contained in this report has been prepared with care by the author(s), or it has been supplied to the author(s) by apparently reliable sources. In either case, the author(s) have no reason to doubt its completeness or accuracy. However, neither the author(s) company nor its employees guarantee the information, nor does it or is it intended to form part of any contract. Accordingly, all interested parties should make their own inquiries to verify the information, as well as any additional or supporting information supplied, and it is the responsibility of interested parties to satisfy themselves in all respects.

This report is for the use only of the party to whom it is addressed.

Land Insights disclaims responsibility to any third party acting upon or using the whole or part of its contents."

Cover photograph: Two Mile Beach, looking east. Photograph taken by Land Insights

DEFINITIONS & ABBREVIATIONS ........................................................................................................IV 1

INTRODUCTION .............................................................................................................................. 6 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6

2

COASTAL MANAGEMENT POLICY FRAMEWORK ................................................................... 10 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.7 2.8

3

INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................ 17 CLIMATE ................................................................................................................................. 17 CLIMATE CHANGE .................................................................................................................... 17 COASTAL PROCESSES ............................................................................................................. 18 COASTAL CHANGES ................................................................................................................ 19 ESTUARIES AND WETLANDS ..................................................................................................... 20 GEOLOGY ............................................................................................................................... 21 VEGETATION AND FLORA ......................................................................................................... 22 FAUNA .................................................................................................................................... 25

CULTURAL & SOCIAL CHARACTERICTICS .............................................................................. 27 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4

6

INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................ 14 PREVIOUS CONSULTATION....................................................................................................... 14 COMMUNITY MEETINGS ........................................................................................................... 14 COMMUNITY QUESTIONNAIRE .................................................................................................. 15

ENVIRONMENTAL CHARACTERISTICS ..................................................................................... 17 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 4.7 4.8 4.9

5

WAPC POLICY NO. DC6.1 – COUNTRY COASTAL PLANNING POLICY ........................................ 10 STATEMENT OF PLANNING POLICY 2.6 – STATE COASTAL PLANNING POLICY ............................. 10 SHIRE OF RAVENSTHORPE TOWN PLANNING SCHEME NO. 5 ..................................................... 11 COASTAL PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT MANUAL 2003 ............................................................ 11 SOUTHERN SHORES 2009 – 2030............................................................................................ 12 THE RAVENSTHORPE DISTRICT COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 2001 ......................................... 12 CULHAM INLET MANAGEMENT PLAN 2008 ................................................................................ 13 FITZGERALD RIVER NATIONAL PARK MANAGEMENT PLAN 1991-2001 ....................................... 13

CONSULTATION ........................................................................................................................... 14 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4

4

PREAMBLE ................................................................................................................................ 6 STUDY AREA ............................................................................................................................. 6 REPORT SCOPE ........................................................................................................................ 7 KEY ISSUES .............................................................................................................................. 8 PROJECT MANAGEMENT ............................................................................................................ 9 CONSULTATION ......................................................................................................................... 9

LAND STATUS AND ZONING ....................................................................................................... 27 LAND VESTING AND TENURE ..................................................................................................... 27 EXISTING USE ......................................................................................................................... 28 HERITAGE ............................................................................................................................... 32

COASTAL MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES ................................................................................... 34 6.1 6.2 6.3

INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................ 34 GUIDING PRINCIPLES ............................................................................................................... 34 COASTAL TENURE ................................................................................................................... 35

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6.4 6.5 6.6 6.7 6.8 6.9 7

COASTAL PROCESSES AND CLIMATE CHANGE .......................................................................... 36 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT .............................................................................................. 38 ACCESS .................................................................................................................................. 43 LAND USE AND FACILITIES ....................................................................................................... 48 HERITAGE ............................................................................................................................... 58 COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT ...................................................................................................... 59

ACTION PLANS ............................................................................................................................ 61 7.1 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................ 61 7.2 SECTOR 1 – WEST OF HOPETOUN (HAMERSLEY INLET (RESERVE 17544), CULHAM INLET (RESERVE 34998), FOUR MILE BEACH AND WHALE BEACH ESTATE) ...................................................... 61 7.3 SECTOR 2 – HOPETOUN BEACHES (RESERVES 35379, 49744, 22810 AND 28280) ................... 67 7.4 SECTOR 3 – EAST OF HOPETOUN (RESERVES 28280 AND 40157) ............................................ 73 7.5 SECTOR 4 – MASON POINT, MASON BAY, STARVATION BOAT HARBOUR AND OLDFIELD INLET.... 92

8

IMPLEMENTATION PLAN .......................................................................................................... 103 8.1 8.2 8.3 8.4 8.5 8.6 8.7

9

INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................................... 103 PRIORITIES ........................................................................................................................... 103 RESPONSIBILITIES ................................................................................................................. 103 MONITORING ......................................................................................................................... 103 INDICATIVE COSTS ................................................................................................................ 104 FUNDING SOURCES ............................................................................................................... 104 SUMMARY ACTION PLAN ........................................................................................................ 105

BIBLIOGRAPHY .......................................................................................................................... 119

List of figures

Figure 4.1a – Environmental Characteristics Figure 4.1b – Environmental Characteristics Figure 4.1c – Environmental Characteristics Figure 4.1d – Environmental Characteristics Figure 4.1e – Environmental Characteristics Figure 4.1f – Environmental Characteristics Figure 5.1a – Tenure Figure 5.1b – Tenure Figure 5.1c – Tenure Figure 5.1d – Tenure Figure 5.1e – Tenure Figure 5.1f – Tenure Figure 7.1a – Implementation and Action Plan – Culham Inlet Figure 7.1b – Implementation and Action Plan – Four Mile Beach Figure 7.1c – Implementation and Action Plan – Whale Bay Estate Figure 7.2a – Implementation and Action Plan – Sector 2 – Hopetoun Beaches Figure 7.2b – Implementation and Action Plan – Hopetoun West Mary Ann Waters Figure 7.2c – Implementation and Action Plan – Hopetoun West Figure 7.2d – Implementation and Action Plan – Hopetoun South Figure 7.2e – Implementation and Action Plan – Hopetoun East Figure 7.3a – Implementation and Action Plan – Two Mile Beach Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

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Figure 7.3b – Implementation and Action Plan – Lookout One Figure 7.3c – Implementation and Action Plan – Lookout Two Figure 7.3d – Implementation and Action Plan – Lookout Three Figure 7.3e – Implementation and Action Plan – Five Mile Beach Figure 7.3f – Implementation and Action Plan – Lookout Four Figure 7.3g – Implementation and Action Plan – Six Mile Beach Figure 7.3h – Implementation and Action Plan – Seven Mile Beach Figure 7.3i – Implementation and Action Plan – Castle Rock Beach Figure 7.3j – Implementation and Action Plan – Eleven Mile Beach Figure 7.3k – Implementation and Action Plan – Twelve Mile Beach A Figure 7.3l – Implementation and Action Plan – Twelve Mile Beach B Figure 7.3m – Implementation and Action Plan – Thirteen Mile Beach Figure 7.3n – Implementation and Action Plan – Fourteen Mile Beach Figure 7.3o – Implementation and Action Plan – Mullet Bay Figure 7.3p – Implementation and Action Plan – East Mullet Bay Figure 7.3q – Implementation and Action Plan – Eighteen Mile Beach Figure 7.4a – Implementation and Action Plan – Mason Point and Mason Bay Figure 7.4b – Implementation and Action Plan – Mason Point Figure 7.4c – Implementation and Action Plan – Mason Bay Figure 7.4d – Implementation and Action Plan – Starvation Boat Harbour Figure 7.4e – Implementation and Action Plan – North Powell Point Figure 7.4f – Implementation and Action Plan – Powell Point

Appendices

APPENDIX A – SUMMARY OF CONSULTATION OUTCOMES APPENDIX B – ACTIONS FROM RAVENSTHORPE DISTRICT COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 2001 APPENDIX C – TRACK MANAGEMENT PLANS

Acknowledgements

The preparation of this report was a collaborative process which included input from the Shire of Ravensthorpe, State Government, community groups and individual community members. It was prepared with valuable assistance from the following people: Pascoe Durtanovich – CEO Shire of Ravensthorpe Rodger Walker – Ravensthorpe Agricultural Initiative Network Sheryn Prior – South Coast NRM The recommendations and background information contained within this report was highly based on the information in the Ravensthorpe District Coastal Management Plan 2001 (Field, 2001) as well as other valuable resources prepared by the Shire of Ravensthorpe, the Ravensthorpe Agricultural Initiative Network, South Coast Management Group and the Department of Environment and Conservation.

Local knowledge and site specific information was gratefully received from members of the community.

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Definitions & abbreviations Definitions All Terrain Road Registered Vehicle – A licensed, road registered vehicle that has the ability to be used off road e.g. 4wd, motor bike, licensed quad bike.

Amenity – those factors which combine to form the present character and likely future character of an area.

Biodiversity – the variety of life: the different plants, animals and microorganisms and the ecosystems of which they are a part.

Coastal foreshore reserve – the area of land on the coast set aside in public ownership to allow for coastal processes and provide protection of ecological values, landscape, visual landscape, indigenous and cultural heritage, and public access, recreation and safety.

Conservation – the protection, management, sustainable use and enhancement of the natural environment.

Development – any change to land use, including housing, any demolition, erection, construction, alteration of or addition to any building or structure on the land and any excavation or other works.

Dieback – the common name given to the pathogen Phytophthora cinnamomi which is a soil borne water mould that invades and destroys the root systems of many native flora species in Western Australia.

Environmentally sustainable development – development that improves the total quality of life, both now and in the future, in a way that maintains the ecological processes on which life depends.

Ecological linkage – a series of (both contiguous and non-contiguous) natural areas that, within a landscape context, connect larger natural areas by forming stepping stones of habitat that allow the movement of organisms and genetic material between these larger natural areas.

Ecology – study of the relationships of animals and plants, particularly of animal and plant communities, to their surroundings, living and non-living.

Ecosystem – a term used to describe a specific environment to include all the biological, chemical and physical resources and the inter-relationships and dependencies that occur between those resources.

Landscape values – natural and/or cultural landscape features that are highly valued, as defined by documented research.

Off-road vehicle – an un-licensed vehicle that has the ability to be used off road (e.g. quad bike, dune buggy, trail bike). There are no areas where the use of off road un-licensed vehicles is permitted in Shire of Denmark coastal reserves.

Powercraft – a craft powered by an engine Remnant vegetation – stands of remaining native vegetation indigenous to a locality.

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Reserves – may be either land classified in local planning schemes for public purposes or areas of Crown land reserved for public purposes as determined by the Land Act 1933 and the Land Administration Act 1997.

Sustainability – meeting the needs of current and future generations through the integration of environmental protection, social advancement and economic prosperity.

Threatened Ecological Community – communities which consist of native vegetation which are poorly represented and in danger of extinction.

Threatened Flora – Rare and priority flora protected under the Environmental Protection Act 1986.

Threatened Fauna – Fauna protected under the Wildlife Conservation Act 1950.

Vehicle – A vehicle is propelled by an engine or other mechanical source of power.

Wetlands – areas of marsh, fen, peat land or water; whether natural or artificial, permanent or temporary, with water that is static or flowing, fresh, brackish, or salt including areas of marine water the depth of which at low tide does not exceed six metres.

Abbreviations 2WD..........................................

4WD...........................................

ATRR .......................................

CIMG.........................................

CMP...........................................

DAFWA......................................

DEC...........................................

DEWHA.....................................

DIA.............................................

DOP...........................................

DOW..........................................

MRWA.......................................

RAIN..........................................

SCMG........................................

TPS............................................

WAPC........................................

SPP ...........................................

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

Two Wheel Drive Four Wheel Drive All Terrain Road Registered Culham Inlet Management Group Coastal Management Plan Department of Agriculture and Food Western Australia Department of Environment and Conservation Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts Department of Indigenous Affairs Department of Planning Department of Water Main Roads WA Ravensthorpe Agricultural Initiative Network South Coast Management Group Town Planning Scheme Western Australian Planning Commission State Planning Policy

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1.1

Preamble

The Shire of Ravensthorpe coastline extends for approximately 200km along the Southern Ocean (Australia‟s Golden Outback, 2011). The coastal landscape and scenery ranges from sandy beaches, rocky headlands, small bays, steep cliffs and interesting rock formations. The Shire‟s coastline is primarily contained within reserves which have their management orders with the Shire of Ravensthorpe. Other coastal areas are managed by the DEC including the Fitzgerald River National Park and the Lake Shaster Nature Reserve. Formal car parking areas and beach access is available at numerous locations along the coast as well sites which cater for formal recreational pursuits such as camping and picnicking.

The preparation of the Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan has involved a thorough review of the Ravensthorpe District Coastal Management Plan (prepared in 2001) and integration of new management recommendations to assist with enhanced coastal management and protection for the next 10 years.

The purpose of the Coastal Management Plan is to provide detailed information on the following: The characteristics of the Shire‟s coastal reserves (including current uses, access and environmental condition) Management recommendations for environmental protection and rehabilitation Management recommendations for the future land uses Priorities for each recommendation over the next 10 years Detailed plans that provide an indication of the location of the management recommendations.

It‟s important to note that the strategies and actions contained within this plan apply only to reserves that are managed by the Shire and excludes land managed by the DEC and freehold land.

1.2

Study Area

The Shire of Ravensthorpe is located along the southern coast of Western Australia, approximately 536 km to the south-east of Perth. The Shire consists of two main townsites (Ravensthorpe and Hopetoun) and a few smaller centres (Munglinup, Jerdacuttup and Fitzgerald).

A majority of the Shire‟s coastline is either contained within Shire-managed reserves or Conservation Reserves or National Parks which are managed by the DEC. The Shire-managed coastal reserves stretch along a majority of the coast from Hamersley Inlet to Oldfield Inlet. This is largely as a result of a recommendation in the 1984 CMP prepared for the Shire which proposed that the narrow strip of coastline between Two Mile Beach and Starvation Boat Harbour were vested within the Shire and the areas of remnant vegetation to the north of Southern Ocean Road were vested with the State Government. The coastal areas managed by the DEC include the Fitzgerald River National Park (located at the western end of the Shire) the Lake Shaster Nature Reserve (located at the eastern end of the Shire).

The Shire‟s reserves are generally used for a wide range of uses such as swimming, walking, picnicking, surfing, fishing, camping, boating and other recreational activities.

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In summary, the study area consists of the following coastal reserves managed by the Shire: R17544 – Hamersley Inlet R34998 – Culham Inlet Four Mile Beach and Whale Beach Estate Hopetoun Beaches (R35379, R49744, R22810 and R28280) The coastal area which extends east of Hopetoun to Starvation Boat Harbour (R28280 and R40157).

The Fitzgerald River National Park is a DEC managed reserve which is approximately 329,029 ha in size and covers the south-west portion of the Shire. Hamersley Inlet is located within the National Park.

The land on the eastern side of the inlet is a Shire-managed Reserve (R17544) which is surrounded by the National Park. The DEC (in conjunction with the Shire) is currently preparing a management plan for Hamersely Inlet. Therefore, no specific recommendations have been included in this report as they will be addressed in the DEC management plan for the area.

1.3

Report Scope

This report presents the Coastal Management Plan (CMP) for the Shire of Ravensthorpe coastal reserves. The purpose of the CMP is to identify the current land uses, values and issues at the Shire‟s coastal reserves and to make recommendations for the future management for the next 10 years. The report was prepared with the view that natural environments have limited capacity to absorb land use pressures before they start to degrade and their capacity for regeneration is reduced.

The following broad steps were taken during the preparation of this document: Review of the Ravensthorpe District Coastal Management Plan 2001 and other foreshore management plans and determine the actions undertaken Detailed site visit at each of the Shire‟s coastal reserves Integration of relevant recommendations from the previous Coastal Management Plan Consultation with the community to identify concerns and issues and to include recommendations to address these Identification of new issues and development of strategies and actions to address them.

The objectives of the Coastal Management Plan are to: Manage and protect the Shire‟s coastal reserves in a sustainable manner so that they can be enjoyed by future generations Enhance and protect conservation values Reduce land use conflicts and ensure safety and quality in the long term Encourage sustainable recreational land uses at each coastal reserve Enhance community understanding of the environmental values of the coast and encourage a sense of ownership Encourage that successful relationships between the community and the Shire continue in the future to allow for better coastal management.

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1.4

Key Issues

A number of broad issues have been considered as this document was prepared. These are summarised in Table 1.1.

Table 1.1 – Key issues Issue

Context

Existing management plans and planning documents

The Ravensthorpe District Coastal Management Plan was prepared for the Shire in 2001 with a focus to provide management recommendations for 10 years. This report was reviewed and relevant aspects were integrated into the CMP where appropriate. Southern Shores 2009-2030 is another coastal management document which provides recommendations for the management of the southern coastline of WA.

The impact of current land uses and managing land use conflict

The population of WA is expanding at an unprecedented rate with subsequent development and land use pressures. Coastal areas are also greatly desired for their amenity and lifestyle values and the recreational activities they provide. The aim of the CMP is to provide management actions to help minimise the impact that human activity has on the coastal environment so it can be enjoyed by future generations.

Access

Uncontrolled access to beach areas can lead to dune degradation which can have a significant impact on the overall health of the coast. The CMP identifies where the formal access points and informal tracks are located and includes recommendations to address uncontrolled access. Access for off-road vehicles and restrictions along the beach have also been considered.

Remnant vegetation

The coastal environment comprises its own, unique form of vegetation which provides habitat for native fauna and helps to stabilise dune systems. Native vegetation can be destroyed and degraded from uncontrolled access, illegal camping, driving through dunes etc. The CMP includes recommendations to address vegetation degradation and protection.

Landscape

It is important that current and future land uses do not negatively impact on the visual landscape and amenity. The aim of the CMP is to propose actions which have minimal impact on visual amenity and landscape and enhance opportunities for the landscape to be viewed and appreciated.

Tourism and Recreation Land Uses

The Shire‟s coastal reserves are mostly used for recreation and tourist purposes.

The recommendations in the CMP should reflect current usage and the community‟s visions for these reserves and help to address any potential management issues, manage expansion of facilities and inappropriate activities.

Heritage

European and Aboriginal heritage issues have been reviewed and considered during the preparation of the CMP.

Sustainability

It is essential that management of the Shire‟s costal reserves occurs with the view of protecting these areas for the use of future generations for many years to come.

The management recommendations in the CMP aim to achieve this objective.

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Issue Climate Change

1.5

Context The south coast of WA is sensitive to climate change variability and decreases in rainfall. Climate change projections also indicate that an increase in the mean sea level is also likely. Possible rises in sea level could have an impact on low-lying coastal areas and well established beaches. The 2010-2020 Strategy and Action Plan includes reference to SPP 2.6 and the revised Position Statement which addresses sea level rise and other coastal management issues.

Project Management

The preparation of the CMP was managed by the Shire of Ravensthorpe.

Pascoe Durtanovich – CEO – Shire of Ravensthorpe Mr Michael Taylforth – Land Insights Mrs Sharee Rasmussen – Land Insights 1.6

Consultation

This project involved a number of different consultation mechanisms to ensure that a variety of opportunities were available for a range of people to provide their opinions about the management of the Shire‟s coastal reserves.

Consultation undertaken for this project included: Meetings with the Shire of Ravensthorpe and the Ravensthorpe Agricultural Initiative Network Community meetings held in Hopetoun and Ravensthorpe to identify issues and concerns A community questionnaire which was available in hardcopy and electronic format A public display at the Hopetoun Festival in January 2011 Public advertising of the draft report.

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2.1

WAPC Policy No. DC6.1 – Country Coastal Planning Policy

DC Policy 6.1 was prepared in 1989 and is currently under review by the WAPC. The objectives of the policy are to: Encourage orderly and balanced development on and adjacent to the coast consistent with the protection of coastal resources Protect, conserve and enhance, as appropriate, coastal resources Permit public access to the coast consistent with the protection of coastal resources.

The policy requires that a number of different issues are considered when planning along the coast and incorporated into coastal management plans. These include: Land use priorities Land tenure Ecology Visual amenity Land preservation Soil protection Water quality Pedestrian access Roads and parking.

DC 6.1 also explains the principles which should be applied when considering the above issues.

2.2

Statement of Planning Policy 2.6 – State Coastal Planning Policy

The State Planning Policy (SPP 2.6) was published in the Government Gazette in 2003. It sets out objectives, policy measures, coastal plan requirements and a set of revised guidelines for coastal development setbacks. The objectives of the policy are to: protect, conserve and enhance coastal values, particularly in areas of landscape, nature conservation, indigenous and cultural significance provide for public foreshore areas and access to these on the coast ensure the identification of appropriate areas for the sustainable use of the coast for housing tourism, recreation, ocean access, maritime industry, commercial and other activities ensure that the location of coastal facilities and development takes into account coastal processes including erosion, accretion, storm surge, tides, wave conditions, sea level change and biophysical criteria.

The document includes policy measures relating to public interest, coastal foreshore reserves, coastal strategies and management plans, environment, development and setbacks and physical process setbacks. SPP 2.6 also outlines the information which should be included in coastal plans and was referred to in the preparation of this management strategy.

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The WAPC is currently undertaking a full review of SPP 2.6 in consultation with other key stakeholders.

A Position Statement for the policy requirement under Schedule One of SPP 2.6 for sea level rise has been adopted by the WAPC on endorsed on 25th May 2010 (refer WAPC 2010). The WAPC Position Statement relating to the review of SPP 2.6 has taken into account the latest information from the IPCC and CSIRO regarding the impacts of climate change.

Based on this review, the WAPC has adopted a vertical sea level rise value of 0.9m to allow for the impact of coastal processes over a 100 year planning timeframe (2010 to 2110). SPP 2.6 should be applied to determine the appropriate coastal setback for new development to account for the impact of coastal processes. For new development on a sandy coast this will result in a horizontal setback of 52m, increasing the total setback from 100m to 150m. The required total setback will vary according to the circumstances of any particular proposal, therefore each case should be considered individually to comply with SPP 2.6.

This Position Statement will form part of the full review of SPP 2.6, which is currently being undertaken by the DoP. Figures may be revised as further research and scientific evidence on climate change induced sea level rise becomes available.

2.3

Shire of Ravensthorpe Town Planning Scheme No. 5

The Shire of Ravensthorpe Town Planning Scheme No. 5 (TPS) was gazetted in July 2003 and provides land use zoning and reserves land within the Shire. It indicates that the entire stretch of coastline is contained within a Recreation reserve.

2.4

Coastal Planning and Management Manual 2003

The Coastal Planning and Management Manual was prepared by the WAPC in 2003 to provide a practical guide to coastal planning and management in WA. It provides information on a broad range of issues which should be considered when managing the coastline such as the following: Common coastal management problems Techniques for dune stabilisation Rehabilitation of coastal landscapes Revegetation methods Weed management.

A number of principles are described in the manual, the aim of which is to advise readers about an appropriate framework for managing the coast. These principles address the following: Sustainable management Identifying the limits of acceptable change Maintenance of ecosystem integrity Consultation Respect for and protection of Indigenous rights, interests, culture and heritage Identification of management objectives Staged management approaches Minimal intervention Site-specific management approaches.

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2.5

Southern Shores 2009 – 2030

Southern Shores 2009 - 2030 was prepared as a review of Southern Shores 2001- 2020 (which is conducted on a bi-annual to five yearly basis). The purpose of the review was to recognise achievements in coastal management over the preceding 8 years and to identify management recommendations to assist with protection of the coast in the future. The aim of the report is to help guide the maintenance of the coastal environment, natural assets and lifestyle values and to promote development that is carried out in a sustainable manner.

The report was prepared by Coffey Environmental on behalf of the South Coast Management Group (SCMG) which is a Local Government based regional representative body of coastal planners, managers and community delegates along the South Coast of Western Australia. The vision of the SCMG is to bring together people, organisations and information, so that communities in the South Coast region are able to work in partnership, to improve the quality of the coastal zone environment, resulting in environmental, social and economic sustainability.

The report acknowledges some of the actions that have occurred within the Shire of Ravensthorpe in previous years including the appointment of a full-time ranger to oversee camping fee collection, removal of rubbish and supervision of sites, community management of Mason Bay and Starvation Boat Harbour and coastal management and installation of facilities at West Beach, Hopetoun.

The report contains management actions that relate to the entire southern coast between the Shire of Denmark and the Shire of Esperance. There are no actions which specifically relate to the Shireâ€&#x;s coastal reserves. Nevertheless, many of the broad actions were adapted and integrated into this Strategy to ensure consistency with Southern Shores 2009-2030.

2.6

The Ravensthorpe District Coastal Management Plan 2001

The Ravensthorpe District Coastal Management Plan was prepared in 2001 by Catherine Field. Its purpose was to describe the current and potential issues that faced coastal areas within the Shire until 2011 and to provide recommendations for actions that should take place to help manage these issues.

A total of 21 issues were identified in the plan and recommended actions were made to help address these. The issues were identified: Provision of facilities Signage Collection of firewood Informal camping Squatters dwellings Coastal foreshore setbacks Shoreline erosion Boat launching facilities and groynes Aquaculture Mining impacts Coastal education and awareness Marine conservation reserve Off-road vehicles Trails Rubbish disposal Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

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Dieback Weeds Feral animals Exercising animals Fire management Aboriginal interests and heritage.

The plan concluded that the issues which required more urgent attention included fire management, informal camping, dieback, mining impacts, rubbish disposal, off-road vehicles and the provision of facilities. A summary of the recommended actions from the 2001 CMP is included at Appendix B. 2.7

Culham Inlet Management Plan 2008

The Culham Inlet Management Plan was prepared in 2008 with the main purpose of identifying, protecting and enhancing community values, reducing the threats to the inlet and providing integrated management actions. The report identifies six management strategies: Managing for the future Planning access, recreation and development Promoting integrated sandbar management Improving water quality Increasing our understanding and protecting plants and animals Promoting community awareness, involvement and education.

The environmental issues of greatest concern include clearing within the catchment area, sandbar management, sedimentation, high levels of nutrients, salinity, acid sulphate soils, the effects of climate change, recreational impacts and invasive species. There are no recommendations which specifically apply to the Culham Inlet beach access addressed in this CMP. 2.8

Fitzgerald River National Park Management Plan 1991-2001

The Fitzgerald River National Park Management Plan was prepared in 1991 by the then Department of Conservation and Land Management. The Fitzgerald River National Park is a DEC managed reserve which is approximately 329,029 ha in size and covers the south-west portion of the Shire. Hamersley Inlet is located within the National Park. The land on the eastern side of the inlet is a Shire-managed Reserve (R17544) which is surrounded by the National Park.

The most significant management concerns identified in the 1991 plan included rick of dieback, threatened fauna, wide-scale bush fires and access to the park for recreational uses such as camping, fishing and beach activities which can cause environmental degradation. The principal management goal was to conserve all flora and fauna, particularly the large number of rare species and those in need of special protection. A complementary goal is to conserve the Park's landscapes, in particular, the extensive vistas free of human disturbance.

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3.1

Introduction

A consultation program was undertaken to ascertain the views of coastal users and to seek comment from relevant Government agencies. Specific consultation mechanisms included: Meetings with the Shire of Ravensthorpe and the Ravensthorpe Agricultural Initiative Network Community meetings held in Hopetoun and Ravensthorpe to identify issues and concerns A community display which took place during the Hopetoun Festival Distribution of a community questionnaire in electronic and hardcopy format.

3.2

Previous Consultation

Previous consultation was undertaken during the preparation of the CMP in 2001. This included community meetings at Ravensthorpe, Hopetoun and Jerdacuttup and discussions with the Hopetoun Progress Association, the Ravensthorpe Hopetoun Area Promotions Committee and the DEC (then the Department of Conservation and Land Management). A total of 47 people attended the three community meetings and 30 issues were raised. The Jerdacuttup workshop focussed on Starvation Boat Harbour and included members from the Jerdacuttup Community Association. The Hopetoun workshop focussed on the beaches around the town and the Ravensthorpe workshop focussed on Mason Bay, Hamersley Inlet and other areas.

3.3

Community Meetings

Two community meetings were held to assist with the preparation of the CMP. The meetings were held on the 7th December 2010 at Hopetoun and the 8th December 2010 in Ravensthorpe. The aim of the community meetings was to provide local residents with the opportunity to provide input into CMP. As such, they were held early in the process of preparing the CMP so that community views would be taken into account as appropriate.

The meetings were advertised and promoted in the Ravensthorpe/Hopetoun local newspaper and on the Shireâ€&#x;s website. A total of 3 people attended each of the meetings at Hopetoun and Ravensthorpe.

Some of the main points which were discussed included the following: Vehicle access to the beach Vehicles driving along the beach Pedestrian access to the beach around Hopetoun Environmental damage caused by people Different uses at the various locations Financial and human resources Environmental values (especially in relation to Culham Inlet) A boat ramp at Starvation Boat Harbour The Management Plan being prepared by the DEC which includes Hamersley Inlet camp site.

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3.4

Community Questionnaire

A community questionnaire was prepared in order to obtain information on the community issues, values and opinions relating to the Shire‟s coastal reserves. The questionnaire was made available online and hard copies were also made available. The community were notified of the questionnaire through a variety of means (notices on the Shire‟s website, distribution to community contacts who were asked to distribute and advise their contacts, distributed at the festival, advertisements in the local newspaper and verbal correspondence at the community meeting).

A total of 41 responses were received which are summarised in Table 3.1 below.

Table 3.1 – Questionnaire summary from the community consultation conducted in 2010 Question

Most popular responses

Q1. What locality do you live in?

Hopetoun – 27 responses Ravensthorpe – 9 responses Rural – 3 responses

Q2. What beach do visit and use the most?

Hopetoun Beaches – 35 responses Hamersley Inlet – 23 responses Two Mile Beach – 23 responses Culham Inlet – 20 responses Four Mile Beach – 19 responses Starvation Boat Harbour – 18 responses Mason Bay – 14 responses Five Mile Beach – 12 responses Twelve Mile Beach a – 10 responses

Q3. What is your main activity at your favourite coastal locations?

Swimming – 29 responses Walking – 26 responses Fishing – 23 responses Camping – 19 responses

Q4. How often do you visit your favourite coastal locations?

Once a week – 15 responses Other – 11 responses Once a month – 9 responses Everyday – 4 responses

Q5. Is the conservation of the natural values on the Shire‟s coastline important to you?

Rating 5 (Most important) – 31 responses

Q6. Please identify which values or features at the coast are most important to you.

Natural environment – 30 responses

Rating 4 – 9 responses Landscape – 24 responses Sandy beaches – 21 responses Ocean and water features – 20 responses Biodiversity – 20 responses Access – 20 responses Views – 17 responses

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Question

Most popular responses

Q7. What do you like about your preferred beach?

Natural pristine condition – 16 responses Peace and isolation – 10 responses Wildlife, biodiversity and vegetation – 4 responses Good fishing location – 4 responses Serene views – 4 responses Access – 3 responses No dogs policy – 3 responses

Q8. What do you dislike about your preferred beach?

Erosion – 7 responses Vehicle access on beaches – 7 responses Litter - 6 responses Lack of dog policy enforcement – 4 responses Not enough shade – 3 responses

Q9. What do you want to change about your preferred beach?

Ban any vehicle access – 5 responses BBQ facilities – 5 responses More signage – 4 responses Restrict vehicle access – 3 responses

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4.1

Introduction

Coastal environments are highly dynamic and valuable ecosystems. They have significant economic value as they form a highly desirable location for residential, tourism and recreational land uses. From a social perspective, coastal areas act as a meeting place for families and friends and are places in which a range of recreational activities can take place. It‟s important that the environmental value of coastal areas isn‟t neglected in order to cater for social and economic values as these are inextricably linked with the environmental. Environmental characteristics across the Shire‟s coastal reserves are shown in Figures 4.1a – 4.1f.

4.2

Climate

The climate experienced in this region of Western Australia is described as Mediterranean which is characterised by cool, wet winters and hot, dry summers. At the Shire of Ravensthorpe, the mean daily temperatures are approximately 18oC at Hopetoun and 16oC at Ravensthorpe in winter and approximately 26oC at Hopetoun and 29oC at Ravensthorpe in summer. A majority of rainfall occurs between May and August. The average rainfall at Hopetoun is 492mm annually and 426mm at Ravensthorpe (Bureau of Meteorology, 2011). The changes in temperature and rainfall have a significant impact on the visitor population to the Shire‟s coastal areas throughout the year (in general the cooler summer temperatures and warmer winter temperatures along the coast are more desirable than inland conditions).

Regional weather is influenced by surrounding oceans, mid-latitude coastal fronts, southerly changes and the sub-tropical ridge which create a variable climatic pattern. High pressure systems dominate the south-west area of Western Australia during the summer months and low pressure systems are more common during winter which brings cold fronts and winter rainfall (DEC, 2008).

During the summer months the dominant winds are from the south, south-east and east. Strong afternoon breezes also occur. Dominant winds during winter are from the north, north0west, west and south-west. Winds during spring and autumn are calmer and have a east, south-east and southerly direction during the afternoons (Field, 2001).

4.3

Climate change

The South Coast of WA is sensitive to climate change variability and rainfall (Coffey Environments, 2009). Annual rainfall in the south-west has declined by approximately 10% since the 1970‟s. Declines have been noted as occurring in autumn and early winter. There has been little change in late winter and spring rainfall, however a slight increase during summer. The frequency of extreme rainfall events is not expected to change. Australia has also warmed about 0.8oC over the last century, mostly after 1950 and the ongoing rate of global warming is 0.1 to 0.5oC per decade (DEC, 2008). Projections for rainfall suggest that a further reduction in autumn, spring and winter rainfall in likely for much of southern Australia (DEC, 2008).

Climate change projections also indicate that an increase in the mean sea level is also likely. The frequency of extreme events will continue to be highly modulated by inter-annual cycles of tides, mean sea level and storminess. Possible rises in sea level could have an impact on low-lying coastal areas and well established beaches. SPP 2.6 adopts greenhouse predictions based on the Third Assessment

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Report (2001) of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. It states that a vertical sea level rise of 0.9m is predicted to allow for the impact of coastal processes over a 100 year planning timeframe. On a sandy coastline, this will result in a horizontal setback of 52m and a total setback of 150m.

The consequences and rates of climate change are still being debated within the scientific community.

Issues relating to climate change will need to be continually monitored and appropriate measures taken to protect near-coastal and estuarine infrastructure as new information becomes available. This should involve continuous review and adaption of management in response to new knowledge and understanding of climate change and its effect on coastal areas.

4.4

Coastal processes

The Shire‟s coast line is extremely varied and consists of a mixture of rocky headlands, steep cliffs and bays. The embayments generally exist between rocky headlands and steep cliffs which offers these areas protection from the elements. Sand is also deposited in the bays which results in sandy beaches with relatively calm, clear water.

The coast is one of the most dynamic natural environments and there is relatively little known about the oceanography of the south coast of WA. There is ongoing interaction between wind, water and land that produces a number of different landforms and coastal types. The forces in action include along the coast are explained in Table 4.1. The open ocean shores of the Ravensthorpe coast are buffeted by strong, relatively consistent swells from the south west except in sheltered locations such as Starvation Boat harbour.

The Leeuwin Current flows from the north-west of WA towards Cape Leeuwin and travels eastwards across the southern coast towards the Great Australian Bight. The current is important for the growth of fish and other marine life. The Southern Ocean is also known to be low in nutrients due to the lack of upwelling and low deposits discharged from rivers and estuaries. Despite this, the marine life in the ocean is diverse and abundant.

Table 4.1 – Coastal processes Action

Description

Interaction of Wind and Sea

The Shire‟s coast faces south and fronts the Southern Ocean where the major weather patterns include westerly winds in the Roaring Forties and south-east Tradewinds. Cyclones and northwest gales may disrupt the prevailing system and local breezes prevail at other times. Wind blowing over water generates waves and swells that impact on the coast.

Interaction of Wind and Land

When the wind blows onshore it moves beach sand, from the water‟s edge, inland. This moving sand may be trapped by vegetation and as the vegetation grows, dunes of sand build. The dunes, being reservoirs of sand, may be attacked by storm waves and the sand moved into a sand bar to be later reworked and returned to the shore and the dune. If there is no vegetation sand may be blown inland to form sand sheets or blowouts. Loss of sand from the beach inland leads to recession of the coast.

Interaction of Sea and Land

The type of landform and geology and the action of the swells and currents largely determines the shape of the coast. Under the influence of the sea, the seabed is swept continually, and sediments are deposited onto the shore. Storm waves remove sediment from the beach and swell returns the material to shore.

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Action

Description If the eroding and building forces are in balance the shore is stable. Alternatively, if building forces are stronger than the eroding forces, the shore will accrete and if the reverse should occur the shore will recede.

Interaction of Sea, Wind and Land

Over a few decades, if the sea, wind and land are in balance, equilibrium will be achieved and the coast remains unchanged. This balance, however, can be upset by climatic changes, extraordinary weather events, rapid physical changes or interference from human beings. Other forces at work include the interaction of the moon and earth (tides), seasonal changes in wind patterns (winter gales/summer breezes) and greenhouse gas affected climatic change.

Littoral drift

Wind on water creates swell, waves and currents that move sand laterally along beaches and shores. Littoral drift may move sand in one direction for certain months of the year and then this may reverse with changing seasonal weather conditions and move back again.

Sand Budgeting

Coastal managers need to understand the concept of sand budgeting. For example, what sand is entering the beach system and what sand is being lost from the beach system? If sand is being lost from the beach then roads, parking areas and buildings will be damaged or lost. Or, if the beach is accreting (gaining sand) the roads, car parks and buildings become further from the beach and need to be replaced and reconstructed.

Source: Jerramungup Coastal Management Plan (2004)

Rip Currents Rip currents are hazardous to beach use and development. The action of waves breaking against a beach pushes water up against the shore. This results in a return flow of water from the surf zone to the adjacent waters further offshore. Under conditions of relatively low wave energy, this return flow is likely to be diffused relatively uniformly along the coast. In the presence of moderate to high wave conditions however, this return flow is likely to be concentrated in rip currents.

Rip currents are most prevalent and severe during winter storms, however they also form during summer months particularly when the background swells and the sea breezes are quite strong. As far as hazards to beach users are concerned, the formation of rips during summer is of greatest concern as this is when exposure is greatest.

4.5

Coastal Changes1

Long Term Changes The coast is subject to continual change and has been changing since the earliest geological time. Over the past 400 000 years the level of the ocean has fluctuated from between 150 metres above and below where it is at present. These rises and falls in sea level correspond to the advances and retreats of ice ages. The sea level has been rising since the end of the last ice age approximately 30 000 years ago and there is recent evidence that glaciers and the ice caps are still retreating/melting, which suggests that sea levels should still be rising. In addition it is generally agreed the “Greenhouse Effect� will result in increasing temperatures within the atmosphere, causing ocean levels to rise.

1

Source: Jerramungup Coastal Management Plan

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It should be noted that these movements are extremely slight. For example, a rise or fall in sea level of 100 metres over 30 000 years is in the order of 3.3 millimetre per annum. Although this may seem minute, a 3.3mm rise may cut back a sandy beach by 10 times that amount (33mm).

Medium Term Changes From observations of storm activity on the Western Australian coast it is evident that there are cycles of higher and lower storm intensity. There appears to be an approximate 11-year cycle that may be related to cycles of wind movement, the El Nino effect or fluctuations in solar radiation.

The implication of this cycle of storminess is that storm waves attack the coast removing sediment. This may result in steep erosion faces on beaches, destruction of coastal management works such as pathways, fences and carparks and the deterioration of coastal buildings. The best course of action in these instances is for the Shire to take short term action to ensure that people are not harmed i.e. close off damaged pathways etc. With the change of season, sand should begin to accrete on the beach and dune building will recommence. An important consideration is not to overreact by attempting to stabilise the coast immediately.

If coastal stabilisation work is necessary, initiate a scoping of works to determine the best method for coastal stabilisation on a case by case basis as required. In the past it has been found that on the WA coastline that the best method is sand nourishment, rather than stabilisation of the beach with rocks.

Short Term Changes Short term changes take place on beaches from summer to winter. Generally, on the Western Australian coast, sand is removed from beaches during winter resulting in narrower beaches. The sand is taken into the surf zone where it forms a sand bar. As the season changes and lighter southerly breezes take over, the sand bar migrates back to the beaches and the beach widens again. The wind in turn picks up this sand returning it to the dunes. Coastal vegetation recolonises the new sand and building occurs.

Very Short Term Changes Severe storms can cause massive dune erosion in a short time. They also result in damage to seagrass and large amounts may be deposited on the beach, which can protect the beach from additional wave damage.

4.6

Estuaries and Wetlands

The Shire-managed coastal reserves include three estuaries (Hamersley Inlet, Culham Inlet and Oldfield Inlet) and a series of wetlands located inland from the coastal dune systems (referred to as the Jerdacuttup/Lake Shaster wetlands).

The Lake Shaster Nature Reserve and the Jerdacuttup Lakes Nature Reserve are managed by the DEC. The Lake Shaster Nature Reserve includes the coastal area between Starvation Boat Harbour and the Oldfield Inlet. The Jerdacuttup lakes Nature Reserve is located inland from the Shire-managed coastal reserve and extends from between Five Mile Beach to Mason Bay. Culham Inlet Culham Inlet is a large shallow inlet located approximately 7km to the west of Hopetoun. It is closed to the ocean most of the time and is fed by Steere River and Phillips River. The inlet is recognised in the South Coast Regional Strategy for Natural Resource Management as an inlet with significant Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

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community values and a priority for management and is also listed on „A Directory of Important Wetlands in Australia‟ for its importance as a place of habitat and refuge for birds. The inlet also lies within the Fitzgerald River Biosphere (Department of Water and RAIN, 2008).

The Shire reserve R364998 surrounds the perimeter of the Culham Inlet and includes the land between the inlet and the ocean. The Culham Inlet beach access point is located to the south-west of the inlet.

Jerdacuttup/Lake Shaster wetlands The Jerdacuttup/Lake Shaster wetlands are located on a narrow coastal strip approximately 10 km wide on the Ravensthorpe between the town of Hopetoun and the Oldfield Estuary, a distance of approximately 80 km (Green Skills, 2007). 25 wetlands within this area were assessed for waterbird use, condition and potential threats by Green Skills on behalf of the South Coast Natural Resource Management Team in 2007. The study found that some wetlands appeared to be under stress as was evidenced by the death of paperbark tree deaths due to waterlogging and increased runoff from the catchments. Other threats were found to be from invasion of weeds, developmental impacts from nearby subdivisions, mining within wetlands and impacts from water runoff from surrounding catchments. Most wetlands in the area were, however, found to be in good condition.

The Jerdacuttup Lakes consist of a particularly important deep and brackish swamp adjacent to Southern Ocean East Road and two constellations of small, swamps one to the east of Jerdacuttup Lake East and the other between the two main lakes. Jerdacuttup Lake West is the former estuary of the Jerdacuttup River which has been cut off from the sea for a probable 6000 years (Green Skills, 2007).

Lake Shaster is approximately 479 ha in size, of which 111 ha is vegetated, the remainder being either bare or open water when full. Drainage into the lake is via two small, unnamed creeks one at either end of the lake, both have most of their catchments cleared for agriculture north of Springdale Road. (Green Skills, 2007).

The Oldfield Estuary The Oldfield Estuary is a sediment filled former river valley and has contact with the sea every 3-4 years. It is fed by the Oldfield River which is 95 km long and has a 248 000 ha catchment, of which only 30% has been cleared (Craig 1998). The catchment has been classified as a „focus catchment‟, and the Oldfield River and its tributary the Munglinup River are considered „priority waterways‟ on account of their wide vegetated corridors (Green Skills, 2007).

4.7

Geology

The Shire of Ravensthorpe lies within the Proterozoic Albany-Fraser Orogen geological province (DEC, 2008). Basement rocks of the Ravensthorpe region include those of the Albany-Fraser Orogen and the Yilgarn Craton. Projections of these basement rocks are seen today as coastal headlands, islands and hills. The oldest are rocks from the Yilgarn Craton which consists of granite, gneiss and enclaves of sedimentary and volcanic rocks which formed around 4500 million years ago when magma squeezed into the older gneisses to form batholiths. The granite rock formations are now exposed along the coast as large, rounded weathered boulders (DEC, 2008 and Field, 2001). Ancient geological processes have resulted in the variety of landforms along the Shire‟s coast such as sheer cliffs, headlands, bays and peninsulas.

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Rock formations from the Albany-Fraser Orogen are somewhat younger and were formed over 2390 million years ago. They consist of folded and faulted quartzite, phyllite, dolomite and conglomerate.

These formations make up the Barren Ranges which are located within the Fitzgerald River National Park.

The Jerdacuttup Fault was created 1300 million years ago when Antarctica pushed up against southern Australia. The fault separates the two rock types and extends from the western boundary of Culham Inlet in a north-east direction towards Pyramid Lake.

In the coastal areas, the Tertiary and Precambrian crystalline and sedimentary rocks are overlain by Tamala limestone and Aeolian sand. In the last 2 million years the sand dunes were partially lithified to form limestone outcrops which run parallel to the coast. They altered the hydrology of the coast by restricting water flow to the ocean and creating lakes and inlets (Field, 2001). Limestone outcrops also occur along the coast to form headlands which provide the protection required to allow the formation of sandy beaches (DEC, 2008).

4.8

Vegetation and flora

Native vegetation within the state of Western Australia has been assessed and classified in a number of different ways. A study conducted by Beard (1980) resulted in the division of the state into botanical provinces, districts and sub-districts based on ecological, climatic, geological and soil characteristics.

The Shire of Ravensthorpe is located within the South West Botanical Province (DEC, 2008). The South West Botanical province is recognised as one of 34 recognised biodiversity „hotspotsâ€&#x; in the world due to its rich species diversity and endemism.

Knowledge of flora characteristics outside the national parks and other conservation reserves in the Shire is limited. The most recent vegetation survey of the Ravensthorpe area was undertaken by Beard (1973) from which a number of vegetation systems were identified. These are listed below: The foredune and primary dune systems are colonised by plants tolerant to strong winds and salt spray such as Sea Rocket (Cakile maritima), Hairy Spinifex (Spinifex hirsutus), Thick-leaved Fan Flower (Scaevola crassifolia), Coastal Daisy Bush (Olearia axillaris) and Coastal Sword Sedge (Lepidosperma gladiatum). The vegetation across the foredune crests includes Rottnest Teatree (Melaleuca lanceolata), Thick-leaved Fan Flower, Summer Scented Wattle (Acacia rostellifera), Myoporum adscendens and Westringia dampieri. The more sheltered leeward slopes include Teatrees and Coastal Moort (Eucalyptus platypus var. heterophylla) (Field, 2001).

The secondary dunes are floristically more diverse and the plant communities vary along the coastline.

However, there have been limited flora and vegetation studies in the region and therefore very little is known about the vegetation communities present. Some limited information on the flora around Hopetoun and Culham Inlet is available (mainly as a result of flora studies conducted to support development proposals).

Vegetation west of Hopetoun consists of a closed woodland of Coastal Moort (E. platypus var. heterophylla), Ridge-fruited Mallee (E. angulosa) which turns into a Silver Mallee (E. falcate) dominated community or a low heath including of Adenanthos cuneata, M. scabra, M. striata and E. tetragona.

Vegetation east of Hopetoun consists of the following communities:

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Closed woodland including Coastal Moort (E. platypus var. heterophylla), Ridge-fruited Mallee (E. angulosa) Closed Shrub including A. rostellifera, low mallee form Eucalypts and Pomaderris myrtilloides.

Low heath with emergent Tallerack (E. tetragona). Heath species include Adenanthos cuneata, M. striata and Calothamnus quadrificus Low closed heath including Scaevola crassifolia, Spyridium globulosum, Westringia rigida, Olearia axillaris, A. cyclops and A. rostellifera.

A review of the flora of the south coast was undertaken during the preparation of Southern Shores 2001-2009 by Craig (2000). The report describes the vegetation communities along the southern coast at a broad scale.

Macro corridors A macro corridor is a strip of native vegetation that forms a linkage between other substantial areas of native vegetation, such as a national park or nature reserve. They are important for the normal functioning of ecological processes such as allowing native fauna to move across the landscape. The Western Australian South Coast Macro Corridor Network was prepared by the then Department of Conservation and Land Management and the then South Coast Regional Initiative Planning Team in 2006. The document identifies 21 potential vegetation macro corridors which are considered to have regional nature conservation significance within the South Coast Region of Western Australia (i.e. from west of Albany to Isralite Bay). Eight of these corridors lie largely within the Shire of Ravensthorpe including the Coastal Corridor which extends from Fitzgerald River National Park to Cape Arid National Park.

A Priority Status was also assigned to the macro corridors to reflect their nature conservation values and linkages they provide. These are as follows: Very High Priority: links two very high nature conservation value areas High Priority: links one very high nature conservation value area with a high nature conservation value area Moderate Priority: links one very high or high nature conservation value area with any protected area Priority: all other linkages identified.

The Coastal Corridor is described as „near continuous‟ and a „Very High Priority‟.

Rare and Priority Flora Species of protected and priority flora are species which are in danger of extinction, rare or need special protection. They are listed under the Wildlife Conservation Act 1950 and protected under the Environmental Protection Act 1986. Declared Rare Flora (DRF) is categorised as either Critically Endangered, Endangered or Vulnerable. They are essentially species of plants which have been identified as being rare, threatened or otherwise in need of special protection and are therefore published in the State Government Gazette as such. Priority flora are also identified at a State level by the DEC as species of plants which are poorly known, rare and require further survey.

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It is important to identify these flora species within the Shire as their population numbers are very low and they require specific protection in viable environments (i.e. self-sustaining). Areas where these species are located should be identified and protected from activities (including access) that have the potential to disturb the vegetation or introduce weed species. Site specific flora surveys are recommended should any development be proposed within the coastal reserves.

Biodiversity Biodiversity is a descriptive term for the different species of flora, fauna, micro-organisms, genetic material and the ecosystems they form (Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, 2009). The Shire of Ravensthorpe is also located within the South West Botanical Province of WA which is identified as an international Biodiversity „Hotspot‟. This means that the natural ecosystems in the Shire (as well as other Shires within the South-west) have an extremely high level of endemism and are at a high level of threat of loss of vulnerable species.

As the level of biodiversity is an important asset to the Shire it is important that all future planning and land use decisions take into account the issue of biodiversity protection. Human disturbance to the environment can have a variety of impacts on the environment. These impacts are usually cumulative – that is, the combined result of numerous small impacts can result in significant problems. Use of coastal areas for recreation or development should be carefully managed to ensure that small impacts do not accumulate and result in incremental or large-scale degradation, particularly with anticipated increased visitation and use.

Impacts on Ecosystems The environment is made up of perfectly balanced ecosystems in which the interactions between plants and animals (including humans) directly impact on its health. Detrimental impacts on one component of the environment can affect other aspects of the environment, and this can sometimes have a direct impact on our way of life. In some cases, the original impact might seem negligible, but it‟s common that these impacts will indirectly impact a favourite pastime or an aesthetic quality of the environment.

One important example is the use of vehicles, particularly 4WDs, along the beach. Research at the University of the Sunshine Coast has identified that the use of vehicles along the beach substantially modifies the habitat of intertidal fauna (Department for Planning and Infrastructure, 2008). The intertidal areas of bare sand are populated by a variety of invertebrates under the sand. Disturbance of the sand and their habitats cause a decrease in invertebrate numbers which have important roles in the beach ecosystem such as recycling nutrients, breaking down organic matter and also as food for birds and fishes. Naturally, a decrease in the number of invertebrates decreases the amount of food available for birds and fishes higher in the food web, which can result in fewer numbers of these species.

Environmental Weeds The presence of weeds and introduced flora in natural ecosystems is a significant environmental issue in Australia. Most weeds are capable of colonising and flourishing in the Australian environment (particularly in degraded areas) and generally have the following impacts on the environment: Outcompete native flora for nutrients, light, water etc. and prevent their regeneration Influence the ecology and provide habitat to the advantage of introduced fauna species Reduce suitable habitat for native fauna species Affect the natural ecological and physical processes of the environment (e.g. fire regimes).

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Weeds are present in the coastal reserves largely as a result of their use in past rehabilitation and dune stabilisation (e.g. Marram Grass), from private gardens and from general vegetation disturbance which increases the likelihood of weed colonisation. Some of the weed species of concern in the coastal reserves are listed in Table 4.5 below.

Table 4.5 – Shire of Ravensthorpe Weed Species List Scientific Name Leptospermum laevigatum Asparagus asparagoides Euphorbia paralias Rapistrum sp.

Source: Field, 2001

Common Name Victorian Tea Tree Bridal Creeper Sea Spurge Turnip

Bridal Creeper and the Victorian Tea Tree are the most invasive and difficult to control. Bridal Creeper currently exists at Starvation Boat Harbour, Hopetoun Main Beach and others. Biological controls such as leaf hopper and plant rust have recently been used to control this weed. The local Weeds Action Group has previously been involved in identification and removal of weeds in the Shire.

4.9

Fauna

The abundance of native fauna in the South-West has declined since European settlement mainly due to impacts such as land clearing. The Shire‟s coastal reserves consist of relatively intact and large areas of remnant vegetation which is likely to support a range of habitat types and associated fauna.

Previous studies on native fauna along the south coastal areas have been carried out by Christensen et al. (1985). The results of these studies are referred to in the descriptions below.

Mammals Previous studies along the southern coastal areas by Christensen et al. (1985) identified a number of common species including Honey Possums (Tarsipes rostratus), Western Pygmy Possums (Cercartetus concinnus), Brush-tail Phascogale (Phascogale tapoatafa), Bush Rat (Rattus fuscipes) and Yellowfooted Antechinus (Antechinus flavipes). Other mammals known to inhabit coastal areas include Echidnas (Tachyglossus aculeatus) and the Western Grey Kangaroo (Macropus fuliginosus).

Introduced mammals include foxes, rabbits, feral cats and black rats. Further fauna studies are recommended to compile a more accurate list of native fauna found in coastal areas in the Shire and to help determine the presence of threatened fauna.

Marine mammals are regularly seen in the ocean including Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops truncates) and Common Dolphins (Delphinus delphis) and occasional sightings of Australian Sea Lions (Neophoca cinerea). Southern Right Whales (Eubalaena australis) and Humpback Whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) pass by the coast on their migration northwards (Field, 2001).

Birds Birds are abundant within the Shire‟s coastal areas, largely owing to the large, intact areas of native vegetation and the variety of habitat types. Bird species which are known to breed along the coast include the White-browed Babbler (Pomatostomus superciliosus) which nest behind the foreshore and the Hooded Plover which nest immediately adjacent to the beach. Other bird species which feed

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exclusively along coastal area but most likely do not breed in the area include New Holland Honeyeater (Phylidonyris novealandiae), White-browed Scrub Wren (Scricornis frontalis maculates), Field Wren (Calamanthus fuliginosus), Weebill (Smicrornis brevirostris) and Rock Parrot (Neophema petrophila) (Field, 2001).

Migratory waterbirds frequently inhabit the southern coastal areas of Western Australia during certain times of the year. These birds travel from northern Asia (including China and Japan) and migrate to wetlands throughout Australia to nest. Migratory shorebirds are present from mid-spring to mid-autumn.

A number of wetlands and inlets in the Shire are important breeding areas for migratory birds and native waterbirds. Migratory birds are protected under the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act (1999) and several international treaties.

The foredunes around Hopetoun to the west of the groyne to beyond Culham Inlet provide important habitat for the Hooded Plover. The impacts resulting from humans, dogs and vehicles on shorebirds, resident shorebirds and seabirds include disturbance to important feeding, roosting and breeding regimes. Disturbance of breeding birds can lead to abandonment of eggs and young.

Reptiles There is very little known about the species of reptiles found along the Shire‟s coastal reserves except that the area is likely to be inhabited by lizards, skinks and snakes. The Death Adder and Tiger Snake have been observed in the area (Field, 2001).

Fish The fish species regularly caught by recreational fishers include Australian Herring (Arripis georgianus), Whiting, Australian Snapper (A. ruttaccus), Western Blue Groper (Achoerodus gouldii), Queen Snapper (Nemadactylus valenciensi), Bight Redfish (Centroberyzgerradi), Samson Fish (Seriola hippos), Breaksea Cod (Epinephelus armaturs) and various sharks (Field, 2001).

Threatened Fauna Threatened Fauna species present in a given area can be searched for on the DEC‟s database, which includes species which are declared as 'Rare or likely to become extinct (Schedule 1)', 'Birds protected under an international agreement (Schedule 3)', and 'Other specially protected fauna (Schedule 4)'.

The survival of these species is threatened by destruction of habitat areas and predation by feral animals. Therefore, it‟s important that the future use and management of the Shire‟s coastal reserves aims to minimise impacts on vegetation cover and condition and retain habitat for native fauna.

Introduced fauna such as rabbits, cats, dogs, foxes, mice and black rats have significant impacts on native fauna and vegetation condition and contribute to dune erosion, vegetation disturbance and weed encroachment.

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Date: 8/03/2011

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UN IT 1/1 A LVAN STREET, MT LAW LEY, WA , 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAW LEY, WA , 6929 PHONE: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMA IL: a dmin@la ndinsig hts.com.au

Date: 8/03/2011

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UN IT 1/1 A LVAN STREET, MT LAW LEY, WA , 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAW LEY, WA , 6929 PHONE: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMA IL: a dmin@la ndinsig hts.com.au

Date: 8/03/2011

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UN IT 1/1 A LVAN STREET, MT LAW LEY, WA , 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAW LEY, WA , 6929 PHONE: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMA IL: a dmin@la ndinsig hts.com.au

Date: 8/03/2011

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UN IT 1/1 A LVAN STREET, MT LAW LEY, WA , 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAW LEY, WA , 6929 PHONE: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMA IL: a dmin@la ndinsig hts.com.au

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UN IT 1/1 A LVAN STREET, MT LAW LEY, WA , 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAW LEY, WA , 6929 PHONE: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMA IL: a dmin@la ndinsig hts.com.au

Date: 8/03/2011

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5.1

Land status and zoning

The Shire of Ravensthorpe Town Planning Scheme No. 5 (TPS) indicates that all the Shire‟s coastal reserves are reserved as Recreation. DEC managed reserves such as the Fitzgerald River National Park, Jerracuttup Nature Reserve and Lake Shaster Nature Reserve are also reserved as Recreation.

5.2

Land vesting and tenure

All areas considered within this CMP are contained within reserves which have their management orders with the Shire of Ravensthorpe. The purpose and responsibility of each reserve is described in more detail below. The specific location of each reserve can be seen in Figures 5.1a-5.1f. These plans also indicate the tenure of surrounding areas such as other reserves, freehold land, unallocated crown and, road reserves and the Shire boundary.

Reserve 17544 (Lot 547 on P 93465) Reserve 17544 includes the area of land around the perimeter of Hamersley Inlet. It is surrounded by Reserve 31738 which is the Fitzgerald River National Park. This reserve has its management orders with the Shire of Ravensthorpe and is a „C‟ class reserve of approximately 146ha in size. The current purpose is listed as „camping‟.

Reserve 34998 (Oldfield Location 1450) Reserve 34998 encompasses a thin strip of land around the eastern perimeter of the Culham Inlet. It commences at the northern end on the Inlet and winds along the eastern side of the inlet before expanding to include the land between the inlet and the beach at the southern end. The management orders are with the Shire of Ravensthorpe and it is classified as an „A‟ class reserve. It is approximately 176 ha in size and the current purpose is listed as „recreation‟.

Reserve 33173 (Lot 1264 on P 240004) This reserve extends from reserve 34998 at Culham Inlet along the coast to the western side of Hopetoun. It is a „C‟ class reserve and has its management orders with the Shire of Ravensthorpe. The reserve is approximately 173 ha in size and its current purpose is listed as „recreation‟.

Reserve 35379 (Lot 467) Reserve 35379 includes the coastal strip which extends across the western half of Hopetoun. It has its management orders with the Shire of Ravensthorpe and is a „C‟ class reserve. The reserve is approximately 10ha in size and the current purpose is „recreation and parklands‟.

Reserve 49744 (Lot 501 and 502 on P 58669) This reserve extends across the southern side of Hopetoun and is approximately 1ha in size. It has its management orders with the Shire of Ravensthorpe and is a „C‟ class reserve. The current purpose is „recreation‟.

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Reserve 22810 (Lot 503 on P 59877) This reserve includes a small parcel of land to the east of R49744 and is approximately 1.7ha in size. It has its management orders with the Shire of Ravensthorpe and is a „C‟ class reserve. The current purpose is „recreation‟.

Reserve 28280 (Lot 692 on P 93629) Reserve 28280 includes the coastal strip which extends along the eastern side of Hopetoun and beyond. It has its management orders with the Shire of Ravensthorpe and is a „C‟ class reserve. The current purpose is „recreation‟ and is approximately 77ha in size. This reserve includes Two Mile Beach.

Reserve 40157 (Lot 1405 on P216661) This reserve extends from the eastern end of Hopetoun across the Shire‟s coast to Lake Shaster Nature Reserve at the eastern end of the Shire. It encompasses a majority of the Shire‟s coastal area and a majority of the sites included in this CMP including Lookouts One to Four, Five Mile Beach, Six Mile Beach, Castel Rock Beach, 11 Mile Beach, 12 Mile Beach A and B, 13 Mile Beach, 14 Mile Beach, Mullet Bay, East Mullet Bay, 18 Mile Beach, Mason Point and Mason Bay. It is approximately 2193 ha in size and is classified as a „C‟ class reserve, it has its management orders with the Shire of Ravensthorpe and the current purpose is „recreation‟.

Reserve 40097 (Lot 1445 on P216663) Reserve 40097 includes the coastal area stretching from R40157 to the north of Starvation Boat Harbour. It is a „C‟ class reserve which has its management orders with the Shire of Ravensthorpe.

The reserve is 594 ha in size and its current purpose is listed as „Parkland and Recreation‟.

Reserve 32338 (Lot 1258 on P91793) This reserve is located on the western side of the Oldfield Inlet at the eastern-most extent of the Shire.

It is a „C‟ class reserve and has its management orders with the Shire of Ravensthorpe. The reserve is 220ha in size and the current purpose is listed as „Recreation‟. No formal access or recreation sites are located within this reserve.

5.3

Existing use

Since European settlement of the area the Shire‟s coastline has historically been used for recreational purposes, commercial uses such as fishing and other activities relating to the recreation or tourism. The reserves are still currently used for much the same purpose, although the intensity of use has increased as the coast becomes more accessible (i.e. from better roads) and more holiday-makers travel to the area. The land use pressures along the coast are higher during the summer months.

Recreational land uses The Shire‟s coastal reserves are commonly used for the following activities: Walking Swimming Surfing Windsurfing Water skiing

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

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Jet skiing Scuba diving Snorkelling Fishing 4-wheel-driving Boating Camping Dog exercise General beach activities Picnics Enjoyment of natural surroundings.

Camping at Mason’s Bay

Prohibited activities include camping and fires on the beach.

It‟s an unfortunate reality that different recreational land uses can sometimes conflict with each other.

The nature of the conflict is influenced by the values and opinions of local residents and visitors and what activities they believe are appropriate for the area. For example, there is some difference of opinion amongst some members of the community about whether 4-wheel-driving is appropriate along the beach. Community consultation is important in order to identify land use conflicts and to propose possible resolutions. The recommendations in the CMS aim to focus on reducing the land use conflicts at each reserve.

No recreational fishing clubs exist in the Shire, however recreational fishing is a popular pastime. A regular fishing competition is held on Australia Day long weekend each year. Popular beach finishing locations are West Beach, Hopetoun Groyne, Twelve Mile Beach, Mason Bay and Starvation Boat Harbour. Offshore fishing occurs at various locations (Field, 2001).

Boat launching is possible at Hopetoun Old Boat Ramp, Hopetoun Groyne, Mason Bay and Starvation Boat Harbour (Field, 2001).

A Sea Search and Rescue group is located at Hopetoun and is run by volunteers. Current safety issues are exacerbated by land use conflicts and problems also occur based on the sea conditions. The Goldfields Esperance Regional Recreational Fishing Advisory Committee represents recreational fishers in the region. A representative from Hopetoun sits on the meeting of the committee and raises relevant issues.

The location of popular recreational beach activities is described in Table 5.1 below.

Table 5.1 – Locations of popular recreational coastal activities

Activity Surfing Windsurfing Swimming

Location „The Crazies‟ (located near rocks offshore from Flathead Point near Culham Inlet).

The channel between The Crazies and Flathead Point, at Mary Anne Beach and at West Beach.

Beaches between Fitzgerald River National Park and Two Mile Beach, Mason Bay and Starvation Boat Harbour. Swimming lessons are regularly held at Starvation Boat Harbour and near Hopetoun Groyne each summer.

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Activity Water skiing and jet skiing Scuba diving and snorkelling Exercising dogs Camping Smaller informal camping areas Source: Field, 2001.

Location

Around Hopetoun.

Five Mile Beach.

Beaches at Hopetoun (restricted at West Beach and the main beach at Veal Street and the groyne).

Hamersley Inlet, Mason Bay and Starvation Boat Harbour.

West Beach, Two Mile Beach, Twelve Mile Beach, Thirteen Mile Beach, East of Mullet Bay, Mason Point.

Commercial uses Fishing Commercial fishing has historically been an important economic resource for the Shire, although operations are also big at Albany and Esperance.

The main ocean-based fisheries in the Shire are abalone and scallop, fin fish, southern rock lobster and crab. The main fisheries in the region are below: Abalone – Greenlip, Brownlip and Roe‟s abalone is harvested between Shoal Cape and the South Australian border. Abalone is fished at Hopetoun, Mason Bay, Starvation Boat Harbour and Munglinup South Coast Salmon Managed Fishery – extends between Shoal Cape and Cape Beaufort.

Salmon fishers are designated a beach and they catch salmon with a beach seine net between February and May South Coast Purse Seine Fishery – pilchards are the main species caught in the seine nets Southern Demersal Gillnet and Demersal Longline Fishery – operates from Cape Bouvard to the South Australian Border. The main catch comprises of several species of shark including Gummy, Whiskery and Dusky Whaler and Queen Snapper South Coast Rock Lobster Fishery – operates between Hopetoun and Point Culver South Coast Inshore Trawl – operates around the islands of the Recherché Archipelago.

Saucer scallops are the main target species South Coast Estuarine Fishery – operates within the Gordon Inlet, Hamersley Inlet, Culham Inlet, Jerdacuttup Lakes and Oldfield Inlet. A number of different species are caught but there has been a significant decrease in estuarine fishing units since 1987 (Field, 2001).

Mining Mining has existed in the Shire of Ravensthorpe since 1899. Since that time a range of minerals and mineral deposits have been mined including gold, nickel, limestone, copper, silver, graphite and others.

Between 1910 and 1918 there were 11 mines which were clustered in four groups around the Ravensthorpe town, Mt. McMahon, Mt. Desmond and Kundip. Gold and copper were mined from these mines. In fact, Ravensthorpe was the state‟s most important source of copper. A total of 8,000 tonnes of copper which was smelted on site and shipped from Hopetoun.

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In 1957 the rise in metal prices provided an opportunity to reopen the Elverdton mine which operated until 1971 and produced a further 11,500 tonnes of copper in that time. The Ravensthorpe mines yielded approximately 4 tonnes of gold and 2.6 tonnes of silver from 1899 until the 1970s.

Some mining of limestone deposits has taken place along the coast at Southern Ocean East Road.

However, most of the limestone deposits are low grade and only the top two metres has neutralising values.

The Shire also contains important nickel deposits. Deposits at Trilogy and Kundip have been attractive to some companies. The Ravensthorpe Nickel Operations (RNO) commenced operation at Bandalup Hill and the mine was expected to expand considerably to include a full workforce in the next few years and continue operation for another 25 years. A substantial increase in the permanent population was expected, which would also had implications on the land use pressures and management along the coast. In 2009 the mine was closed which has resulted in a decrease in the permanent population at Hopetoun and Ravensthorpe townsites. However, this mine has recently been reopened by FQM, although the workforce is expected to be more based on fly-in, fly-out.

It is important to note that the recommendations in the 2001 CMP for the Shire took into account the increased workforce associated with the RNO and the associated land use pressures. Therefore, some of these recommendations might not be relevant as the land use pressures have changed and so too will the management responses.

Tourism The Shire is a popular tourism destination during the summer months, particularly the coastal areas between Hopetoun and Starvation Bay and the national parks. Tourism has steadily grown in popularity in the Shire over the last few decades. This is primarily due to the increasing popularly of caravan holidays and camping and the improved road network in the area.

Tourism Western Australia list the activities that visitors can enjoy while on holiday at Hopetoun including arts and craft, barbecue, bird watching, bushwalking, camping, canoeing, cycling, fishing, flora study, sea kayaking, sand boarding, sightseeing, snorkelling, wind surfing, swimming, tennis and whale watching.

The below information was obtained by comparing the information on the Development Commission Area Fact Sheet Esperance 2007 (which includes the Shires of Esperance and Ravensthorpe) and the Local Government Area Fact Sheet Shire of Esperance 2007 (which includes the Shire of Esperance only). By comparing the figures from the two documents it was possible to obtain an indication of the statistics for tourism in the Shire of Ravensthorpe only.

Table 5.2 – The annual average number of visitors to the Shire of Ravensthorpe from 2005-2007

Overnight visitors Intrastate Interstate International Total Overnight Total 1999-2001 Total 2002-2004

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

Number of visitors 27,000 2,000 1,200 30,200 16,500 18,500

Average length of stay (nights) 141,000 55,000 33,800 229,800 82,100 81,700

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Table 5.3 – The most popular leisure activities of domestic visitors to the Shire of Ravensthorpe East out at restaurants Go to the beach General sight seeing Visit friends and relatives Pubs, clubs and discos Go fishing Go shopping Visit national parks Bushwalking Picnics or BBQs Total

Annual average (1999-2001) 5,000 6,000 5,000 7,000 6,000 7,000 2,000 5,000 3,000 2,000 16,000

Annual average (2002-2004) 5,000 8,000 8,000 5,000 5,000 3,000 1,000 4,000 1,000 2,000 17,000

Annual average (2005-2007) 10,000 6,000 7,000 4,000 8,000 8,000 3,000 5,000 3,000 4,000 30,000

Agriculture A large portion of the Shire is developed for agricultural land use which is one of the biggest economic drivers behind mining. Agricultural products include grain, wheat, barley and other crops such as lupin and canola. Livestock such as sheep and cattle are kept on farms located closer to the coast. They are raised for meat and wool.

5.4

Heritage

The heritage related to the Shire‟s coastal reserves includes both Indigenous and European history which has an impact on the land use and development in the area.

Indigenous There is evidence to suggest Aboriginal people have inhabited the south-west of Western Australia for at least 38 000 years. At the time of European settlement, the south-west was occupied by a semisedentary Aboriginal population of several similar tribal groups, known collectively as Noongar.

The Wudjari tribe of Noongar aborigines lived in the area now known as the Shire of Ravensthorpe.

They covered an area from near West Mount Barren, east to Shoal Cape, north to Lake Grace and east of Lake King.

The Noongar tribe who inhabited the Ravensthorpe district were divided into four distinct family groups; the Yonga (the kangaroo), Gnow (mallee fowl), Waitch (emu) and Coudda (long-tailed goanna). The gnamma (water) holes, middens (camps), grinding stones, cutting tools, fish traps and place names bear evidence of Aboriginal occupation. Three native title claims apply to areas adjoining the Shiremanaged coastline; Bullenbuk-Noongar, Southern Noongar and Wagyl Kaip. The Wagyl Kaip and Southern Noongar claims are over the same area including the coastline in the Fitzgerald River National Park from the Shire of Jerramungup to Mason Bay. The Bullenbuk-Noongar claim extends from Mason Bay east towards the boundary with the Shire of Esperance.

The Department of Indigenous Affairs (DoIA) provides mapping to show the location of identified Aboriginal sites and related information. No Aboriginal Heritage Sites have been identified within the Shire‟s coastal reserves.

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It is recommended that some form of educational information is provided at each coastal reserve to make visitors aware of the specific Indigenous values of the area (e.g. interpretative signage).

Consultation with indigenous landowners is recommended during the implementation of any educational information or signage.

European European discovery of the south coast took place in 1622 when the Dutch ship called the „Leeuwin‟ travelled past this region. In 1802 Matthew Flinders sailed the „Investigator‟ along the South Coast and he entered on his charts the Barren Range which is situated west of Hopetoun. The first two Europeans known to cross the Shire of Ravensthorpe were James Newell and James Manning who were shipwrecked east of Esperance in 1835. In 1841, Edward John Eyre travelled through the district with the aboriginal Wylie. He discovered the Phillips River, passed behind the Barren Range and noted another range further inland which he names Eyre‟s Range.

Shortly afterwards, Surveyor J.S. Roe left Perth to survey land inland. In 1848 he left Cape Riche station and went up the Pallinup River and continued north-east to Jerramungup. He discovered and named Mt Madden, Mt Desmond and the Ravensthorpe Range and the highest peak, Mt. Short. He travelled beyond Esperance and on the return journey travelled closer to the coast. He travelled over the Steere River and then to No-Tree Hill and named Phillips River, West River and the Culham Inlet.

In 1870 Surveyor John Forrest travelled via Jerramungup through Cocanarup. His party camped near the Steere River where a Munji-tree or Christmas Tree was marked with his initials.

The Dunns first settled at Cacanasrup on the Phillips River north of Hopetoun and chose Mary Anne Harbour as the port. A Whaler named Thomas is credited with naming Mary Anne Harbour after his eldest daughter and Fanny‟s Cove after the younger.

The goldfields of Ravensthorpe started to flourish in 1900 which bought an influx of prospectors by boat.

A jetty was eventually constructed and a large store-shed built near the beach. Shortly after the town was surveyed and named Hopetoun after the first Governor-General. In 1906 a railway from the goldfields to the port was promised and was surveyed in April 1907. It was February 1908 when the first rail was laid. The sleepers had to be bought to the town by boat and at one stage a barge-load of thousands was forced to wait in the Harbour for two months while waiting for fair weather to permit unloading. The 30 mile stretch of rail was opened by the Minister for Mines on the 3rd June 1909 and became a vital link between Ravensthorpe and the port. However, by 1936 the port and railway were closed due to a lack of transport after the end of World War I. In 1942 a salmon cannery was established on the edge of Jerdacuttup River close to Twelve Mile Beach by Mr. Ted Young. A freezer was constructed in Hopetoun by Mr. Everett, the owner of the Port Hotel which helped keep the fish fresh before travelling to Perth. The cannery was sold the following year to Mr. Dan Hunt and a well-equipped cannery was built in Hopetoun. In the first year of operation it worked to full capacity and a record number of tinned salmon was sold. The fish were caught in the rock enclosed bay at Twelve and Thirteen Mile Beach. However, the tides in 1950 were not high enough to keep the normal channel open and the fish supply fell. Railway tracks from the old cannery can still be seen at Thirteen Mile Beach.

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Legend Roads

R 26302

Cadastre

DEC Managed Lands

R 17589

National Park

Nature Reserve

Other DEC Managed Lands

Shire Managed Reserves

Fitzgerald River National Park

R 31737

R 7377

R 34474

R 34998

R 35865 R 7376 R 44034 R 7853

Culham Inlet Beach Four Mile Beach R 33173

Whale Bay Estate Beach

R 35585 R 35584 R 28280 R 25270 R 22810 R 35379 R 38997 Hopetoun Main Beaches

R 31738 R 17544

Hammersley Inlet

UN IT 1/1 A LVAN STREET, MT LAW LEY, WA , 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAW LEY, WA , 6929 PHONE: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMA IL: a dmin@la ndinsig hts.com.au

Date: 8/03/2011

F

R 26794 R 41371 R 31442 R 29568 R 46891

0

1:90,000

1,200

2,400

COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 3,600

4,800

Metres Plan: 5-1a Tenure.mxd

Figure 5.1a

Tenure

Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

TT DO

Roads

LD

R

A PARD

Cadastre

ERE

CARNABY CL

Legend

L OT E

DEC Managed Lands National Park

DUN

Other DEC Managed Lands R 31920 Shire Managed Reserves

PDE

Nature Reserve

NS

SW

A MP

RD

R 28438

R 7853

S OUT

O CE HERN

AN RD

Lookout Two

Lookout One

SOUTHERN

O CEAN RD

R 40157

R 28280

Two Mile Beach

UN IT 1/1 A LVAN STREET, MT LAW LEY, WA , 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAW LEY, WA , 6929 PHONE: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMA IL: a dmin@la ndinsig hts.com.au

Date: 8/03/2011

F

0

200

1:25,000 400

600

COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN Figure 5.1b

800 1,000

Tenure

Metres Plan: 5-1b Tenure.mxd

Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

Legend Roads

Cadastre

DEC Managed Lands National Park

Nature Reserve

Other DEC Managed Lands

Shire Managed Reserves

Jerdacuttup Lakes Nature Reserve

R 40157

Five Mile Beach Lookout Three Lookout Four

R 40156

Six Mle Beach Seven Mile Beach

UN IT 1/1 A LVAN STREET, MT LAW LEY, WA , 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAW LEY, WA , 6929 PHONE: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMA IL: a dmin@la ndinsig hts.com.au

Date: 8/03/2011

F

0

250

1:20,000 500

COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 750

1,000

Metres Plan: 5-1c Tenure.mxd

Figure 5.1c Tenure

Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

Legend Roads

Cadastre

DEC Managed Lands National Park

Nature Reserve

Other DEC Managed Lands

Shire Managed Reserves

Jerdacuttup Lakes Nature Reserve R 40156

Castle Rock Beach

Eleven Mile Beach Twelve Mile Beach A

R 40157

Twelve Mile Beach B & Track 10 Thirteen Mile Beach Fourteen Mile Beach

UN IT 1/1 A LVAN STREET, MT LAW LEY, WA , 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAW LEY, WA , 6929 PHONE: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMA IL: a dmin@la ndinsig hts.com.au

Date: 8/03/2011

F

0

250

1:20,000 500

COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 750

1,000

Metres Plan: 5-1d Tenure.mxd

Figure 5.1d

Tenure

Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

R 28036

Legend Roads

Cadastre

DEC Managed Lands National Park

Nature Reserve

Other DEC Managed Lands

Shire Managed Reserves

Jerdacuttup Lakes Nature Reserve

R 40156

Mullet Bay East Mullet Bay Eighteen Mile Beach

R 40157

Masons Bay

Masons Point

UN IT 1/1 A LVAN STREET, MT LAW LEY, WA , 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAW LEY, WA , 6929 PHONE: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMA IL: a dmin@la ndinsig hts.com.au

Date: 8/03/2011

F

0

770

1:60,000 1,540

COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 2,310

3,080

Metres Plan: 5-1e Tenure.mxd

Figure 5.1e Tenure

Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

Legend Roads

Cadastre

DEC Managed Lands National Park

Nature Reserve

R 7580 R 9393

R 32339

Lake Shaster Nature Reserve

R 8812

Other DEC Managed Lands

Shire Managed Reserves

R 40097

R 40156Jerdacuttup Lakes Nature Reserve

Starvation Boat Harbour North Powell Point

Powell Point

UN IT 1/1 A LVAN STREET, MT LAW LEY, WA , 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAW LEY, WA , 6929 PHONE: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMA IL: a dmin@la ndinsig hts.com.au

Date: 8/03/2011

F

0

510

1:40,000 1,020

COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 1,530

2,040

Metres Plan: 5-1f Tenure.mxd

Figure 5.1f Tenure

Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

6.1

Introduction

This chapter includes a discussion on the coastal management issues that are considered in this report and the strategies for each. Coastal management issues include coastal tenure, coastal processes, environmental management, provision of facilities, signage, undesirable activities, access, heritage and community education and involvement.

6.2

Guiding Principles

Conservation To maintain and restore terrestrial and marine ecosystem components.

Ensure ongoing rehabilitation (i.e. revegetation, weed control and erosion control) of dunes which show evidence of disturbance.

Commence weed control and revegetation works within areas identified in the Action Plan.

Encourage long-term rehabilitation of dunes by ensuring that beach users keep to formal pathways and discouraging the creation of tracks by vehicles in order to protect vegetation.

Carry out weed control in areas more heavily infested and work towards smaller infestations.

Ensure soil disturbance is minimised during any implementation and maintenance of facilities and infrastructure.

Ensure that erosion is controlled by closing informal tracks, encouraging the use of formal pathways and rehabilitating and maintaining dune vegetation.

Educate the local community and visitors about respecting the environment and minimising their impacts to allow for environmental protection and enjoyment in the future.

If, in the next 10 years, there is an increase in the permanent residential population in the Shire as a result of increased mining (or other) activity environmental management will need to be intensified and adapted to provide the necessary protection of the coast from land use pressures.

Recreation Passive recreational land uses should be recognised as a major value of the Shireâ€&#x;s coastal reserves.

To provide appropriate facilities to cater for a range of recreational activities and which are wheelchair accessible where possible.

The possible expansion of the mining projects in the Shire could result in an increase in resident population and subsequent increase in use in the next 10 years, however these population projections are unknown at this time.

Recreational land uses may change as a result of changing population numbers and demographics associated with an increase in mining activities and management will need to be adapted as a response to new land use pressures.

To ensure that public access to the coast causes minimal environmental damage.

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Social/Community Uses Recognise the importance of community ownership of the beach and encourage a sense of respect and „ownership‟ of the environment.

To encourage further local participation in coastal planning, management and monitoring processes.

Provide ongoing opportunities for the community to be involved in the environmental management of the beach such as weed control, vegetation surveys, fauna spotting, reporting vandalism and damage etc. to allow them to „experience‟ the natural environment.

Some interpretative signs should be implemented in certain locations with the aim of providing public education in relation to indigenous heritage and the environment and should be designed and situated to enhance the landscape and aesthetics.

Recognise the financial limitations of the Shire of Ravensthorpe and allow them to prioritise actions which require more attention.

6.3

Coastal Tenure

Issues Marine Conservation Reserve The marine waters adjacent to the Fitzgerald River National Park are an important environmental asset.

They contain unique flora and fauna and have high environmental value. A marine conservation reserve for this area was recommended as a high priority in a report prepared in 1994 entitled A Representative Marine Reserve System for Western Australia (CALM, 1994). Of particular relevance are the following recommendations from the report: The area of State coastal waters between the mouth of Gordon Inlet and the mouth of Culham Inlet, that is the coast adjacent to the Fitzgerald River National Park should be considered for reservation as a marine reserve for conservation of flora and fauna and recreation. Legal opinion be obtained on the status of Gordon, St Mary, Fitzgerald, Dempster and Hamersley Inlets and if they are judged to the ‘tidal’ and therefore excluded from the national park as declared under the Land Act, consideration should be given to reservation of them as marine reserves under the CALM Act and that their management be integrated with that of the national park.

A comprehensive environmental study was undertaken within the marine waters along the South Coast and the resultant report made many recommendations that will have an impact on the management of the Shire‟s coastal reserves, including the following (Colman, 1998): That the Marine Parks and Reserves Authority consider the area of State water adjacent to the larger notional Fitzgerald Biosphere Reserve (Groper Bluff to Starvation Boat Harbour) for inclusion in a future marine conservation reserve.

The establishment of the Fitzgerald Marine Conservation Reserve should be further investigated by the Shire in conjunction with the State Government.

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Objectives To retain the focus of coastal reserves on conservation and recreation and to ensure the cadastral boundaries align with the beach and dune areas managed by the Shire.

Strategies It is considered that the current tenure and reserve purpose of the Shire‟s coastal reserves is appropriate for their designated use and for future conservation and management.

The recommended strategies are as follows: CT1.

Avoid segregation of the coastal reserves into smaller reserves.

CT2.

Review the discrepancies between the boundary of coastal reserves and Unallocated Crown Land along the beach areas and amend as appropriate.

CT3.

Review the discrepancies between the location of road reserves which exists where coastal car parking areas, pathways and recreation sites exist and amend as appropriate.

6.4

Coastal Processes and Climate Change

Issues Waves, Wind and Erosion Waves constantly change the shape of the coastline as part of a natural cycle of beach erosion and accretion (short-term changes). The winter months are associated with a large number of storms and high wave energy which results in increased shoreline erosion where sand is deposited offshore.

During the months of summer and autumn, the wave energy decreases resulting in the movement of sand back onto the beach and the foredunes. In general, the onshore-offshore movement of sediment does not represent a significant loss from the beach system.

The process of cross-shore transport during storm events is part of the continuous adjustment that occurs in response to variation of the coastal climate. The nature of this adjustment can be altered by human intervention, where effort is made to provide an immobile section of coast. The only defendable or man-made structure along the entire length of the Shire‟s coastline is the groyne at Hopetoun.

Severe erosion along the section of beach between Flathead Point and Hopetoun Groyne has been known to occur as a result of winter storms. In addition, the vegetation buffer between The Esplanade and the ocean is narrow which accentuates erosion. The remaining vegetation buffers against strong winter swells and should be protected and widened if possible. Three options should be considered for this area: Do nothing – in this situation the erosion will continue and there will be some movement of the shoreline which could create access difficulties Beach nourishment – this involves dumping sand onto the beach to compensate for the erosion. This option can be costly and mostly relevant is erosion is threatening public or private infrastructure.

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Erect a seawall – this option should be avoided as artificial structures tend to lead to other changes to the shoreline and beaches and could lead to other issues.

Sea Level Rise In addition to the above issues, an increase in mean sea level resulting from climate change and global temperature rises could result in the reduction of foreshore width and an increased frequency of coastal flooding. The response of the coastal sediment transport regime, coastal inlets and marine and terrestrial vegetation is more complex to predict but also potentially important (Damara and Shore Coastal, 2008).

In order to address the above issues, the Shire should ensure that facilities are set back enough from the coast and that dunes are retained and protected to avoid beach recession. Foreshore setbacks are particularly important around Hopetoun due to the high use of these beaches and the location of existing buildings and structures near the coast which should be impacted if sea level rise and foreshore setbacks decrease. It is recommended that the Shire prepare an Asset Management Plan which looks at the Shireâ€&#x;s coastal structure and how they might be affected by climate change and a Coastal Setback Assessment which would be a detailed study of current setbacks, estimated sea level rise and high risk areas.

Objectives Ensure the Shire is well-equipped to deal with issues which might arise from the impacts associated with climate change.

Strategies The principal of adaptation to climate change has been outlined in SMEC Australia (2007) Climate Change Adaptation Actions for Local Government as making adjustments to existing activities so that vulnerability to potential impacts associated with climate change can be reduced or opportunities realised.

It is important to focus effort in coastal areas which have a current erosion trend, a narrow foreshore reserve, low relief and inadequate coastal protection works as they tend to have a low capacity to accommodate the potential impacts of climate change (Damara and Shore Coastal, 2008). In general, southern coastline consists of rocky headlands, steep cliffs and undulating dune systems. Therefore, the Shireâ€&#x;s coastal reserves do not generally exhibit any of the above-mentioned characteristics.

However, it is recommended that site specific investigations are carried out should beach erosion and inundations be a concern in order to more accurately determine the distance required for the placement of building and structures to absorb erosion from extreme storm events and from short-term processes such as seasonal erosion and accretion.

The strategies for the management of coastal processes are as follows: CP1. Prepare an Asset Management Plan focussing on existing infrastructure and recreational facilities in Shire-managed reserves and how they can be protected from coastal processes such as storm events.

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CP2. Give due regard to SPP 2.6 to ensure that the location of coastal facilities and development takes into account coastal processes and that appropriate coastal setbacks are implemented and maintained. Consider the need for a Regional Coastal Inundation Risk Assessment, in collaboration with Shires across the South Coast (i.e. South Coast Management Group).

CP3. Conduct regular monitoring of the beach and the dune systems.

CP4. Conduct regular monitoring of infrastructure and recreational facilities along the beach.

CP5. Prepare a coastal erosion and sea level rise management plan for Hopetoun main beach area.

6.5

Environmental Management

Issues Management of the environment is essential in order to reduce the impacts caused from human use and to protect the coast from future degradation. Depending on the specific land use, humans generally have a negative impact on the environment through, for instance, removal of vegetation, introduction of weeds and dune erosion etc. Environmental management efforts such as erosion control, weed control, revegetation, access control and protection of important areas (such as habitat conservation) can assist in improving the environmental value of the area.

Native Vegetation A majority of the Shireâ€&#x;s coastal reserves are in pristine or excellent condition and are comprised of important habitat for native fauna. Habitat protection and conservation involves the protection of vegetation along the primary, secondary and tertiary dunes as well as other areas of vegetation further inland (such as vegetation associated with wetlands and estuaries).

Protection of remnant vegetation along the coastline and inland provides valuable ecological linkages across the landscape.

Vegetation at Lookout Four Vegetation protection can be achieved through pedestrian and vehicular access control, rehabilitation of dunes, fencing, signage and community education about the importance of the natural environment.

Rehabilitation and restoration of coastal areas involves revegetation, weed control and erosion control activities. This includes activities such as dune stabilisation (from brushing etc.), planting of seedlings in disturbed areas, removal of weeds (particularly high priority species) and prevention of access.

View of vegetation at Flathead Point, Hopetoun Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

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Weeds Some of the weed species of concern in the coastal reserves include: Victorian Tea Tree (Leptospermum laevigatum) Bridal Creeper (Asparagus asparagoides) Sea Spurge (Euphorbia paralias) Turnip (Rapistrum sp.)

Bridal Creeper and the Victorian Tea Tree are the most invasive and difficult to control. Bridal Creeper currently exists at Starvation Boat Harbour, Hopetoun Main Beach and others. Biological controls such as leaf hopper and plant rust have recently been used to control this weed. The local Weeds Action Group has previously been involved in identification and removal of weeds in the Shire (Field, 2001).

Continued weed control is recommended, however other management such as the establishment of formal tracks, keeping people and vehicles out of native vegetation etc. should also help control the spread of weeds.

Landscape The Shire‟s coastal reserves provide spectacular views from almost every location. They key component of the landscape is the untamed coast and adjoining natural areas. Degradation of the coastal reserves will change the landscape and thus reduce the value of the reserves.

It‟s considered that the views and aesthetic quality of the Shire‟s coast greatly contributes to its popularity as both a holiday destination and permanent resident accommodation.

Coastal landscape at the Powell Point viewing platform

Non-Native Animals Introduced fauna such as rabbits, foxes and feral cats contribute to dune erosion, destruction of native vegetation and the spread of weeds and they also compete with native fauna for habitat and resources.

Control of rabbits and feral cats can be achieved through baiting and poisoning. Evidence of feral cats and rabbits has been found at Mason Bay and Starvation Boat Harbour. A cat trapping program is recommended for these areas. The Shire should also work with DAFWA to conduct fox, cat and rabbit control within coastal reserves.

Some locations along the Shire‟s coast are used by the public for dog exercise, particularly Hopetoun beaches. However, there are currently no designated dog exercise areas. It‟s important that designated dog exercise areas are delineated and that sensitive beach areas (such as those used by migratory birds for breeding etc.) are protected from this use. It‟s important that dogs are under the control of owners at all times and are prohibited from running through native vegetation and dunes and from chasing native fauna. A dog exercise area could be delineated at West Beach from Canning Street car park to western town firebreak and the beach to the east of Hopetoun Groyne.

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Managing dog faeces is also an issues associated with this land use. Appropriate signage should be placed at popular dog exercise areas to encourage owners to pick up mess. Another option is to place doggie bags at the commencement or end of pedestrian paths leading to the beach. Rubbish bins should also be provided.

Dieback „Dieback‟ is the common name given to the pathogen Phytophthora cinnamomi. It is a soil borne water mould which invades and destroys the root systems of many native flora species in Western Australia.

Approximately 40% of native plant species in Western Australia are susceptible to the pathogen. Its ability to destroy root systems has resulted in many plant deaths and the consequent destruction of entire ecosystems in the south-west of Western Australia.

P. cinnamomi is easily spread throughout plant communities. It is able to produce spores, which are dispersed through the movement of soil particles. A variety of vectors can disperse soil particles (and the spores they carry) from one environment to the next. These vectors include native species, humans, vehicles, machinery and other equipment. As a result, if soil particles from an area infected with P. cinnamomi are dispersed, new areas can be infected.

Dieback cannot be eradicated once it‟s established in an area. It is known to occur on Mason Bay Road, Fence Road, Springdale Road and Southern Ocean East Road. Control should focus on preventing the disease from spreading and establishing in new areas and minimising the additional spread in areas where the disease currently occurs. Areas of vegetation that are susceptible to dieback should be closely monitored for signs of infection, tests should be regularly conducted and, if dieback is found, certain measures should be put into place to prevent its further spread. Dieback can be monitored by searching for dead or dying „indicator species‟ such as Banksia sp. and by conducting soil tests.

Appropriate hygiene procedures should be followed by the Shire when undertaking roadworks to ensure that vehicles and machinery are clean and that construction materials/soils are not infected prior to use.

The Shire should refer to Managing Phytophthora Dieback Guidelines for Local Government (Dieback Working Group, 2000) for appropriate dieback management advice.

Fire Management Fire is a natural phenomenon in the South Coast Region which is largely caused or influenced by summer droughts and lightning storms. It was used deliberately by Aboriginal people prior to European settlement, mainly to assist in hunting practises and for sanitation purposes. According to a local community member, Aborigines used to burn coastal areas to encourage native grasses to grow and this made hunting kangaroos and emus easier. The early settlers established farms along the coast and allowed stock to graze in these areas as they mainly consisted of grassland rather than thick shrub.

Fire management is important to prevent significant destruction to native vegetation and for safety purposes. The Shire should investigate the fire risk and management procedures within higher-use coastal locations such as Mason Bay and Starvation Boat Harbour. The prohibited burning period in the Shire is from the 1st November to the 31st January each year. However campfires pose a major risk for the loss of vegetation, wildlife and infrastructure and are a safety concern. It is an offence under the Bushfires Act 1954 to light ground fires during this season.

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The Shire should implement fire prevention strategies such as prescribed burning (in conjunction with the DEC), slashing of vegetation around campsites and other recreation sites. The Shire should encourage the use of gas barbeques over open fires. A fire management consultant can be used by the Shire to assess the fire risk, suggest rick reduction activities and to implement management procedures at higher use sites. These procedures and advise can be advertised on signs at each site to inform users of what to do in an emergency situation.

Objectives Protect the existing landform, dune systems, vegetation and water features from future disturbances and to restore degraded areas through revegetation, access control and monitoring.

Strategies The following strategies are recommended in terms of environmental management within the Shireâ€&#x;s coastal reserves.

EM1.

Discourage pedestrian and vehicle access in dune areas by implementing management techniques relevant to the particular site, such as fencing or signage.

EM2.

Monitor dunes located close to higher-use recreation locations for signs of disturbance and close and revegetate informal tracks as they occur.

EM3.

Liaise and work with the DEC with regards to conservation of natural habitat and management of environmental impacts across Shire and DEC reserve boundaries, in particular for dogs, threatened wildlife and flora, and fire management.

EM4.

Conduct regular maintenance (such as repairing fences and signs which protect vegetation, weed control, fencing new areas which are being disturbed etc.).

EM5.

Prohibit vehicular use along certain beach areas to protect foreshore vegetation and shorebird nesting and feeding areas.

EM6.

Implement biodiversity surveys in coastal reserves, and compile a flora and fauna species list for each coastal reserve based on scientific surveys and studies and establish the environmental significance of each reserve.

EM7.

Encourage long-term rehabilitation techniques such as constant weed control, access control and monitoring for disturbance.

EM8.

Support the reformation of the Weeds Action Group and their efforts to identify and remove weeds from Shire coastal reserves.

EM9.

Map high priority weed infestations in Shire coastal reserves.

EM10. Encourage Shire field officers (such as rangers) to maintain weed identification and management skills.

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EM11. Support education campaigns that identify weeds and explain why they are a threat to natural environments.

EM12. Conduct feral animal control.

EM13. Ensure appropriate management of stranded marine mammals.

EM14. Provide educational signage in beach areas where shorebird bird nesting (e.g. Hooded Plover) occurs.

EM15. Monitor and manage areas susceptible to the spread of dieback for signs of infection (such as dead banksia plants) and monitor sites known to be affected for signs of spread. Areas susceptible to dieback include areas containing susceptible species (such as Banksia sp.) and areas near access tracks and highly utilised areas.

EM16. Continue to provide support to the local bush fire action groups.

EM17. Liaise and work with the DEC and local bush fire action groups to carry out prescribed burning, hazard reduction techniques and emergency procedures.

EM18. Update or Prepare a Fire Management Manual for the Shire and prepare fire management plans for all Shire of Ravensthorpe coastal reserves. Such plans should incorporate hazard reduction procedures and measures to protect natural values, community infrastructure and lives from fire.

View of the rocky headland at Powell Point from one of the access pathways

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6.6

Access

Issues Uncontrolled vehicle and pedestrian access often leads to vegetation damage and erosion. This detracts from the natural landscape and environmental quality and creates management issues. The recommendations aim to control access to the coast and ensure vehicles and pedestrians are confined to formal roads and tracks.

The beach is accessed by the locals from around the Shire and nearby locations as well holiday-makers and visitors, especially during peak holiday seasons. There are numerous locations along the Shire‟s coast where access to the beach is available to 4WDs. Southern Ocean Road provides good access along the length of the Shire‟s coast on the eastern side of Hopetoun. This helps to prevent the need for 4WD tracks which stretch parallel along the coast.

Car Parking Parking is available at most locations along the Shire‟s coastline. All are accessible by 4WDs, however some are sand tracks only and not appropriate for 2WD use. A description of the type of access and car parking areas for the Shire‟s coastal and beach locations is provided in Table 6.1 below.

Table 6.1 – Access and parking along the Shire’s coastal reserves Location

Vehicle Access to Beach Yes via a gravel track 4WD and 2WD No

Pedestrian Access to Beach Yes

Yes.

Access to car park by 2WD? Yes

Yes

Yes, small car park

Yes

No No

Yes Yes

Yes Yes

No

Well constructed pedestrian access is provided at three separate locations

Yes, small car park Yes, gravel car park.

Two well constructed bitumen car parks are provided at this site.

Yes Yes

Yes, gravel car park Some parking within the caravan park Yes

Yes Yes

Hopetoun Groyne

Yes No, except for one location No

East of Groyne

No

Yes

Two Mile Beach

No

Yes, street parking available Yes, two gravel car parks are available

Hamersley Inlet Culham Inlet Beach Four Mile Beach Whale Bay Beach Estate Mary Ann Waters Estate

West Beach Caravan Park

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

Yes, some formal and some informal tracks are provided. Need to rationalise and guide pedestrians to formal paths.

Yes Yes, numerous sand tracks are provided over the dunes. Some need closing and formal

Car Parking

Yes

Yes

Yes

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Location

Lookout Two

Vehicle Access to Beach

Pedestrian Access to Beach paths identified.

Yes (along the vehicular tracks) Yes (sand tracks)

Lookout Four

Yes (numerous 4WD sand tracks) Possible 4WD access No

Five Mile Beach

No

Yes (sand tracks)

Six Mile Beach

No

Yes (sand tracks)

Castle Rock Beach

Yes (4WD sand track only) No

Yes (sand tracks)

No (nearby track provides access) No

Yes (sand track)

4WD access provided half way along but not to beach Yes

Yes (sand track)

4WD access provided half way along but not to beach Yes

Yes (sand track)

No

Yes (sand track)

Mason Bay

Yes

Starvation Boat Harbour Powell Point

No No

Yes (camping area close to beach) Yes (camping area close to beach) Yes (sand tracks)

North Powell Point

No

Yes (sand tracks)

Lookout Three

Twelve Mile Beach A Twelve Mile Beach B Thirteen Mile Beach Fourteen Mile Beach

Mullet Bay East Mullet Bay

Eighteen Mile Beach Mason Point

No

Yes (sand tracks)

Yes (sand tracks)

Yes (sand track)

Yes (sand track)

Car Parking

Access to car park by 2WD?

Yes (gravel car park) Yes (gravel car park) Yes (gravel car park) Yes (gravel car park) Yes (gravel car park) Yes (informal car park) Yes (gravel car park) Yes (gravel car park) Yes, small informal car park Yes (informal car park)

Yes

Yes (informal car park) Yes (informal car park)

No. Sand track only.

No. Sand track only.

Yes (informal car park) Yes (gravel car parks) Yes (gravel car park) Yes (gravel car park) Yes (gravel car park) Yes (gravel car park)

No. Sand track only.

Yes

Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes No. Sand track only.

No. Sand track only.

Yes Yes Yes Yes

Vehicular Access and 4WD Tracks Vehicular access to the beach is provided at various locations along the coast. Formal vehicle access is available at Hopetoun (near the groyne) and at Mason Bay. Informal vehicle tracks provide beach access at Lookout Two, Lookout Three, Twelve Mile Beach B, Castle Rock Beach, 14 Mile Beach, 18 Mile Beach and Mason Point. Informal 4WD sand tracks have been created at various intervals along the coast between the formal car parking areas. These tracks sometimes provide access to a similar

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section of the beach and are located only a short distance from the main access. Some tracks do not even provide access to the beach. These additional tracks increase the management required by the Shire and can lead to environmental degradation if use is increased. These tracks require closing and are identified in the Figures at Appendix C and the Action Plans (Chapter 7). Some coastal locations do not have vehicular access to the beach simply due restrictions caused by the steep landscape (such as Six Mile Beach, 12 Mile Beach A and Lookout Four) or because tracks have not been made.

A majority of the car parking areas along the coast can be accessed by 2WDs via gravel or limestone tracks which lead from the main road (usually Southern Ocean Road) to a small car park. This includes Culham Inlet, Four Mile Beach, Two Mile Beach, Lookouts one to Four, Five Mile Beach, Six Mile Beach, Twelve Mile Beach A and B, Mason Point, Mason Bay, Powell Point, North Powell Point and Starvation Boat Harbour. Locations along the coast which can only be accessed by ATRR vehicles (including Castle Rock Beach, Mullet Bay, 13 Mile Beach, 14 Mile Beach and 18 Mile Beach) have small informal parking areas along the access track.

ATRR vehicle use is a common activity along the Shire‟s beaches and access is provided at multiple points along the coast. While this land use has its place, it requires some management in order to protect the coastal environment and to manage safety risks and land use conflicts. ATRR vehicle use along the Shire‟s beaches was identified as an issue from the community consultation. Issues associated with uncontrolled ATRR vehicle access to the coast include: Degradation of dunes and dune vegetation and associated instability User conflict – the perception of those who wish to use the coast/beach for more passive forms of recreation (swimming, relaxing etc) is that off-road vehicles are an unacceptable intrusion Safety concerns, particularly to children in more heavily-used areas Destruction of habitat, particularly nesting areas for the Hooded Plover which nests in the dunes.

Control of vehicle access along the beach is contained within Schedule 2, Section 2.1 of the Shire of Ravensthorpe Local Government Property Local Law 2010. Vehicle restriction areas include: West Beach, Esplanade/Canning Boulevard, Hopetoun – The beach foreshore area of Reserve 48879, Lot 3019 (UCL) and Reserve 35379 to a point 20 metres east of the prolongation of Barnett Street. The vehicle exclusion area commences again at 50 metres east of Barnett Street and extends to the groyne. This provides 30 metres along the beach for vehicle access and boat launching which is in line with the vehicle access from Esplanade.

Vehicles are also excluded from the beach foreshore of Reserve 22810. The exclusion period is all year round.

Two Mile Beach – The beach foreshore area along a portion of Reserve 22810, Reserve 28280 and from the eastern boundary of Reserve 40157 for 120 metres east. The exclusion period is from the first of October to the 30th April each year.

Mason‟s Bay camping area - The beach foreshore area along a portion of Reserve 40157 from a point 15 metres west of the boat launching area for 220 metres west and a point 15 metres east of the boat launching area for 120 metres east. This leaves a 30 metre wide area for

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vehicle access and boat launching. The exclusion period is from the first of October to the 30th April each year.

Starvation Boat Harbour - The beach foreshore area along a portion of Reserve 40097 from the eastern end of the Starvation Boat Harbour Road Reserve for a distance of 330 metres to the north-west. The exclusion period is from the first of October to the 30th April each year.

Along other sections o the beach there are no controls in place prohibiting the driving of ATRR vehicles along the Shire‟s beaches as long as the driver holds the appropriate licence. The Shire will need to continually monitor the attitudes, behaviour and impacts of ATRR vehicle users to ensure that environmental degradation does not occur and that provisions of the Control of Vehicles (Off-Road Areas) Act 1978 and associated regulations are adhered to. Vehicle operators need to be aware that their activities have the potential to adversely impact the ecology of the coastal environment. Dune degradation and erosion, and the destruction of fauna habitat need to be avoided. The provision of educational signage, along with a „code of conduct‟ for ATRR vehicles could be considered to raise awareness of these issues.

The Shire currently has powers under the Control of Vehicles (Off-Road Areas) Act 1978 to designate areas where vehicles are permitted, and to manage the operation of off-road vehicles. Penalties are prescribed for a range of offences under the Act, including: Use of a vehicle outside permitted areas Use of a vehicle in a dangerous conditions Causing undue or excessive noise Failure to register a vehicle Allowing a person under 8 years of age to have control of a vehicle.

Enforcement of the Act lies with the Shire Rangers. Understandably, with such a large area of land to cover, the rangers are not likely to be able to apprehend all offenders and it will be difficult to enforce the act. In addition, this activity is increasing in popularity as more people own all-terrain vehicles and visit the area while on holidays. It is important that some actions are put in effect to ensure this land use remains manageable by the Shire. Therefore, it is proposed that management is focussed on high use areas with the most land use conflict. This includes Hamersley Inlet, Four Mile Beach to Two Mile Beach, Mason Bay and Starvation Boat Harbour. Restriction of the use of vehicles along certain sections of the beach (such as higher use areas) and designation of ATRR vehicle areas and access points will hopefully reduce some of the pressure to drive along the beach at high use and environmentally sensitive areas. Some amendments are recommended for the Mason Bay vehicle exclusion area and boat launching area to help make these areas more effective and manageable.

In some locations, vehicle access is necessary for beach management, cleaning rubbish, professional fishing or for emergency and safety purposes. These access points can be gated to provide access in times of need, but will not be accessible to the general public.

Boat Launching Boat launching is possible at Hopetoun Groyne (for larger craft) and Hopetoun Main Boat Ramp (for smaller boats). The Hopetoun Groyne has been in existence for approximately 25 years and is likely to require some major maintenance works. This should be further investigated by the Shire and the

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Department of Transport. Boat launching is not possible in some locations due to the environmental conditions (such as steep landform, cliffs, unideal conditions in the water etc.). Vehicle access areas for boat launching are provided for at Hopetoun near Veal Street and at Mason Bay amongst the vehicle prohibited areas. These areas are outlined in Schedule 2, Section 2.1 in the Shire of Ravensthrope Local Government Property Local law 2010 and are also indicated on the Actions Plans (Figures 7.2d and 7.4c).

It is recommended that the Shire investigate the possibility of providing boat launching facilities at Starvation Boat Harbour. There have been some attempts by the community in the past to create a small boat ramp near the current day use area. This will need further investigation by the Shire in order to determine the demand and the most appropriate location for the boat ramp.

Pedestrian Access Pedestrian access is a common and important issue in coastal areas. Uncontrolled access leads to the creation of multiple tracks over dunes which leads to more vegetation disturbance which, in turn, can result in greater erosion and movement of dunes. The lack of formal pathways means that pedestrians are not directed down the same tracks and this leads to vegetation destruction, dune erosion and eventually dune blowouts. Informal tracks created by pedestrians are sometimes created in less-thanideal locations which might lead to greater dune erosion. Pedestrian access can be controlled through the creation of formal tracks which eliminate the need to create other tracks, provision of signage to direct pedestrians to tracks and fencing along areas which should not be accessed by pedestrians (due to unstable dunes, steep topography etc.)

The previous CMP for the Shire had a strong focus on pedestrian access and included a number of recommendations relating to this issue. The recommendations were considered to during the recent site visit to each of the locations to determine whether they had been carried out. Some of these recommendations are repeated in this CMP if they have not yet been undertaken.

Disabled Access It is recommended that the Shire incorporate disabled access in the design of access trails, car parks and new buildings and facilities etc wherever possible. It should be noted that in some situations the natural landform and topography of coastal areas makes it difficult to provide wheelchair access at every site without making major changes to the landscape. The Shire should consult which engineers where appropriate in order to incorporate disabled access where possible. There are not many coastal locations which are currently wheelchair accessible. This is largely due to the very steep topography across a majority of the coastline. The only location where wheelchair access is available to the beach is from the car parking areas and pathways at Mary Ann Waters Estate. Disabled parking bays are also available.

Objectives Implement access control and reduce the level of disturbance to the environment caused by vehicles and pedestrians.

Strategies The strategies in relation to access are as follows:

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A1.

Adopt a policy for the management of All-Terrain Road Registered Vehicles in coastal areas and Shire reserves which outlines conditions under which these vehicles can operate in these reserves. This policy should also identify those coastal areas and reserves where vehicle access is not acceptable.

A2.

Consider supporting a driver education program for vehicle use on the Shire‟s beaches where access is permitted.

A3.

Employ the powers under the Control of Vehicles (Off-Road Area) Act 1978 to designate areas where vehicles are permitted, to manage the operation of ATRR vehicles and apply penalties.

A4.

Maintain formal pedestrian walkways to throughout the Shire‟s coastal reserves and close informal tracks and discourage their use.

A5.

Give due regard to SPP 2.6 which provides for public access to foreshore areas and apply these when considering future options for the development of dual use pathways and recreational trails within the Shire‟s coastal reserves.

A6.

Review boat launching facilities every two years to manage beach access, safety and potential conflict between beach users.

A7.

Continue to monitor and regulate boat launching activities, especially during peak holiday periods.

A8.

Monitor access points, carparks and pathways for evidence of dune disturbance and the creation of informal tracks.

A9.

Ensure disabled access is considered wherever possible when designing and implementing the actions recommended in this plan.

6.7

Land Use and Facilities

Issues Existing Land Use As discussed in Chapter 5.3, the Shire‟s coastal reserves are highly valued for their recreational, conservation and cultural uses, including the following: Walking Swimming Surfing Windsurfing Water skiing

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Jet skiing Scuba diving Snorkelling Fishing 4-wheel-driving Boating Camping Dog exercise General beach activities Children’s’ playground at the Hopetoun main beach area at Veal Street Picnics Enjoyment of natural surroundings.

A majority of the coastal locations are undeveloped and used for low-key recreational activities. A few locations (such as Mason Bay and Starvation Boat Harbour) include limited development such as a lowkey camping facility, toilets, day use areas etc.

Recreational Facilities A majority of the sites along the Shire‟s coastline are very low-key and relatively undeveloped. Some locations include toilet facilities, picnic and BBQ facilities (West Beach, Two Mile Beach, Mason Bay, and Starvation Boat Harbour) and a children‟s playground is located at the park at Hopetoun main beach.

Provision of Facilities It is imperative that beaches that are managed as recreational areas are provided with necessary facilities. This helps to keep land uses and activities to certain areas and helps to prevent unnecessary disturbance to the environment (such as creation of informal walking trails and creation of bush toilets).

The Shire of Ravensthorpe is required to continually maintain and upgrade facilities within their coastal reserves.

Toilets Toilet facilities at the Shire‟s beaches have improved in recent years, largely as a result of the recommendations in the 2001 CMP. A majority of beaches do not have toilets, however this is considered appropriate due to the relatively low use of these sites and the management limitations of the Shire. Previously, the Shire implemented long-drop toilets housed in brick shelters, however, these have been replaced with composting toilets as the general public are often reluctant to use long-drop toilets for

Toilets at Mason’s Bay

aesthetic and hygienic reasons.

Toilets are located at Hamersley Inlet, West Beach, Two Mile Beach, Twelve Mile Beach A, Mason Bay, Starvation Boat Harbour and North Powell Point. It is recommended that replacement toilets are constructed at Mason Bay and Hamersley Inlet as they do not currently cater for the number of people that use these sites during peak camping seasons.

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Fish Cleaning Tables Fish cleaning tables have been implemented at popular fishing locations such as Hopetoun, Mason Bay and Starvation Boat Harbour as was recommended in the 2001 CMP. This facility is important to help reduce the amount of fish refuse (offal etc) being dumped in the ocean and at the beach. This in turn reduces the number of feral cats attracted to these areas and the need to create improvised tables.

Fish cleaning tables require some maintenance such as regular collection of fish offal and the provision of water (can be salt water) to wash down tables.

Shade The provision of shade (whether artificial or natural) is important along the Australian coastline to reduce sunburn and the risk of skin cancer. The amount of natural shade along the Ravensthorpe coastline varies depending on the location. The shade at the beach is generally low due to the stunted nature of the vegetation on the primary dunes and the steep nature of the coastline which reduces the number of overhanging trees. The Shire has provided some shade structures at certain locations such as the Hopetoun main beach and West Beach.

Shaded picnic areas at West Beach

It is recommended that the Shire plant shade trees (i.e. plants which are tall enough to allow people to sit underneath) within car parking areas, camping areas and picnic areas to provide more natural shade to beach users. Local plants species which should be used for shade trees such as the Rottnest Teatree (Melaleuca lanceolata), Coastal Moort (Eucalyptus utilis ms), Ridge-fruited Mallee (E. angulosa), Silver Mallee (E. falcata) and Port Licoln Mallee (E. conglobata).

Shade provided at Starvation Boat Harbour dayuse area

Artificial shade can be provided from shelters, shade sails and other structures.

Picnic Facilities Picnic and BBQ facilities are provided at a few locations such as West Beach (electric), Two Mile Beach (two gas), Mason Bay (one gas) and Starvation Boat Harbour (two gas). These barbeques are generally located close to existing car parking areas.

Shade areas and picnic benches are provided at West Beach and Two Mile Beach.

The lack of barbeques is a problem at some locations as beach users create open campfires instead which results in destruction of native vegetation in order to BBQ and picnic facilities provided at West Beach Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

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collect firewood. The availability of gas barbeques reduces the need to create open campfires. This reduces the destruction to native vegetation and reduces the fire risk associated with campfires. It is recommended that the barbeques are provided for free to ensure they are not vandalised for money.

It is recommended that picnic facilities and BBQs are provided at a few additional beach locations in order to encourage low-key day use of some locations. The provision of picnic facilities is recommended at Four Mile Beach and 12 Mile Beach B to cater for the use of these locations. The existing barbeques at Starvation Boat Harbour should be relocated based on the redesign of the area if the day use area is opened for parking for boat launching and beach access.

Picnic facilities provided at Two Mile Beach Rubbish Bins Littering and improper rubbish disposal is a significant environmental issue, particularly along coastal areas as rubbish can easily find its way to the water where it can cause animal deaths. The presence of litter within vegetation and along the beaches is also unsightly and affects the aesthetics of the area.

Bins are provided at most coastal locations and the Shire contracts a regular rubbish cleaning service for these bins. There are pros and cons to providing bins. If bins are provided, people tend to use them, however the more bins provided, the more costs to the Shire for collection of rubbish. If no bins are provided people usually take rubbish home with them, however some people will undoubtedly leave their rubbish on the beach.

Bins are already provided at Starvation Boat Harbour, Mason Bay, West Beach and Hopetoun Bins and associated signage at Starvation Boat Harbour main beach as was recommended in the 2001 CMP. While litter is a major issue at most beaches, it is unreasonable for the Shire to provide bins at every car park as this adds to maintenance costs. It is therefore recommended that the Shire encourage beach users to take their rubbish home with them.

This can be incorporated on new signage. Some locations already have signs to this effect.

Regular beach clean-ups should be conducted in order to remove litter from coastal areas. These can involve the local community which will help nurture a sense of pride and ownership over their beach areas.

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Signage Signage is important to help visitors recognise where they are, to communicate emergency and safety details and to assist with education of the environmental and cultural features of the coast. Where possible, signage should be unobtrusive and should not impact on views.

Signage should also be consistent. This includes the format, style, colours, content and type of information.

The design of signs for the Shireâ€&#x;s coastal reserves should follow a similar format that other Shireâ€&#x;s in the state use. This is based on the guidelines in the National Signage at the Culham Inlet car park Aquatic and Recreational Signage Style Manual prepared by the Australian Water Safety Council in 2006. The manual contains guidelines relating to the information to be included, the symbols to use, placement of signs, materials, colour and installation. It also contains guidance for directional road signs, car park signs, access signs, hazard signs and beach signs (to display permitted and prohibited activities). This manual should be referred to by the Shire when preparing and implementing replacement and new signage along the coast.

The car park signs were designed to attract attention and to display important information to visitors so that an informed decision on the suitability of the location can be made (Australian Water Safety Council, 2006). It should contain the location name and emergency marker, warning information about hazards in the area, safety information and regulations.

There is currently a lack of signage within many of the Shireâ€&#x;s coastal reserves. Examples of the different types of signs at the different coastal locations are included in the photos below. Provision of new and updated signage is urgently required and should follow the guidelines in the National Aquatic and Recreational Signage Style Manual. Recommendations have been included in the Action Plans for locations where signage is required either on the road (directional signage) and in the car parks.

Signage at the pedestrian beach access at Mary Ann Waters

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No fire signage at Two Mile Beach

Signage at Powell Point

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Signage at Mason’s Bay

Inadequate safety signage at Powell Point

One possible reason for the lack of signage could be because many of the Shire‟s beaches do not have a formal name which causes confusion, even amongst local people. A majority of beaches are also named after their distance from Hopetoun, which has not allowed for the naming of beaches after historical figures or events, traditional names or their environmental features. A formal naming system should be established and signs prepared accordingly.

The type of signage or the information which should be included in signs includes: Name – some beaches do not have their names displayed Safety – some beaches have hazards such as rips, steep cliffs, swells etc Directional – signs should indicate the location of facilities and activity areas if necessary Rules – the restrictions for each specific location should be included on signs (such as no vehicles, dogs on a leash etc) Interpretative – signs can communicate information on the environmental and cultural values of the location Land use – signs can indicate the popular and permitted activities at the location.

Camping Formal camping sites are located at Hamersley Inlet, Mason Bay and Starvation Boat Harbour.

Caravan and camping is possible at the formal camping area at Starvation Boat Harbour slightly behind the foredunes. However, there also exists a small camping area for tents only to the east slightly called „Tent City‟. This site has been recently improved with walking trails and cleared areas to place tents.

Informal camping also occurs at other locations such as Four Mile Beach, West Beach, Two Mile Beach, 12 Mile Beach B, 13 Mile Beach, 14 Mile Beach East Mullet Bay and along other relatively remove access tracks.

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Many of the small, as-hoc camping areas were historically created by campers who wanted a very isolated experience, away from roads and other people. The increasing popularity of 4WDs means that camping areas which were previously only accessed by few people can now be used by a larger number of visitors.

This has resulted in quite a large number of small camping areas along the Shire‟s coast.

The issue with this is because each camping area adds additional pressure on the Shire‟s resources to manage these areas. Certain areas should be identified specifically for camping to help make this land use more manageable and reduce environmental impacts associated with this land use.

Camping at Mason’s Bay Issues associated with informal camping include:

Vegetation destruction and dune degradation – campers sometime set up in front or on top of dunes which results in removal of vegetation, dune erosion and can eventually lead to blowouts Habitat destruction – removal of vegetation destroys habitat for native fauna Health risks – informal camping means that human waste and rubbish is distributed over a wider area and not disposed of properly Dieback and weed infestation – disturbance to vegetation can result in the establishment of weeds and dieback can be easily spread from shoes and vehicles. This issue also leads to death of vegetation and reduction in habitat for native fauna.

Costs of resources – the maintenance and Camp fires at ‘Tent City’, Starvation Boat Harbour management of multiple, small camping areas adds a significant resources strain. It is considered better to have fewer, but better managed sites.

The above issues can be reduced or controlled using the following management techniques: Closing or prohibiting camping at certain locations and focus camping on a few selected locations. This will help reduce the spread of resources.

Implement signage to direct campers to camping areas and other facilities and indicate where camping is prohibited. Signage should include the following information

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o To camp in allocated areas o Not to camp in front or on top of foredunes o To bury human waste or use toilet facilities (if provided) o Not to pull down trees or remove vegetation o How to maintain camping areas.

Provide facilities (such as shade, barbeques, toilets etc) to avoid the need to destroy the environment.

Mapping the location of camping areas and the location of areas which should be closed and camping not allowed (this is addressed in the action plans).

Squatters Dwellings Semi-permanent dwellings such as caravans or other structures which are retained in one location for a prolonged period of time (i.e. months or years) are referred to as squatters dwellings. Some of these dwellings are used as permanent residences and others are used as holiday or weekend accommodation. This land use results in the following issues: They are usually built or placed on Crown land without the permission of the land manager Have no health, building or town planning approvals from the local government which is a liability issue Restricts the right for others to use the area for recreation and camping and reduces equality for all Creates a precedent for others to establish squatters dwellings which further exacerbates the problem Can lead to legal issues and huge costs to the local government in the future if the dwelling is sold by the owner and the government has to go through the legal and physical process of removing the buildings.

Illegal squatting has been encountered by other local government authorities in the State and was generally seen as too hard to deal with. As the precedent was set, more and more dwellings were established and some sold for thousands of dollars. These local governments later encountered legal issues and lost money while trying to resolve the issue.

Squatters dwellings are commonly established by professional fishermen who need a place in which to live during the fishing season. If people who own these dwellings have a professional fishing licence and are engaged in commercial fishing, they can apply to the Shire for a professional fishermanâ€&#x;s lease which would legalise the situation. Illegal squatters situated on vested or unvested land can be removed by the local government under powers delegated by the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1960. This issue was raised in the 2001 CMP as a common occurrence in the Shire, however, it doesnâ€&#x;t seem such a significant problem at this point in time. The Shire should keep note of visitors on the coast and the length of stay to ensure this does not become a major issue once more.

Dog Exercise The Shireâ€&#x;s Dog Local Law 2010 contains provisions relating to the locations where dogs are prohibited and permitted to enter. Section 5.1 states that dogs are prohibited from the beach foreshore areas at

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West Beach, Hopetoun Main Beach, Two Mile Beach and Mason Bay. The restrictions are described further below: West Beach – the beach foreshore area from the north-western boundary of Reserve 35379 and Lot 3019 (DP50279) for a distance of 160 metres south-east and the beach area adjacent to Lot 3019 from 31 October to 1 April, between the hours of 8.00 a.m. and 6.00 p.m.

Hopetoun Main Beach at Veal Street and the Groyne - the beach foreshore area from the eastern boundary to Veal Street for a distance of 80 metres west, the portion of Veal Street Road Reserve to the High Water Mark, the portion of Reserve 22810 and the portion of Reserve 38997, incorporating the access road from Veal Street for a distance of 80 metres south Two Mile Beach – the beach foreshore area for a distance of 170 metres north-east and 150 metres south-west from the prolongation of the Two Mile Beach access road on Reserve 28280 from 31 October to 1 April, between the hours of 8.00 a.m. and 6.00 p.m.

Mason Bay camping ground - the beach foreshore area for a distance of 40 metres on each side of the boat launch area on Reserve 40157 from 31 October to 1 April, between the hours of 8.00 a.m. and 6.00 p.m.

Dogs are not allowed within DEC reserves. This can cause some issues when the boundaries of the DEC and Shire coastal reserves are situated adjacent to each other (for example Hamersley Inlet and Culham Inlet) where owners may unwittingly allow their dogs to cross the border into DEC land.

Dogs are also known to cause disturbance to shorebird habitat areas located within the dunes. This is a potential risk at Hopetoun and at the inlet areas which have suitable habitat for shorebird nesting.

Land Use Conflicts Land use conflicts arise when different land uses and activities are incompatible and reduce enjoyment of an activity. A more significant issue is when land use conflicts lead to safety issues. This is particularly relevant to vehicle use along coastal areas which are also used for swimming and other recreational uses (such as driving along the beach).

It should also be noted that a range of safety issues are addressed in the Australian Coastal Public Safety Guidelines (Surf Life Saving Australia, 2007) which were prepared to help address ongoing concern about the number of aquatic-related deaths and injuries. Of particular relevance to use of boats in the water, it states that when operating a powered watercraft at any speed that a distance of 60m should be kept from all boundaries of a designated surf zone/swimming area. This is particularly relevant to Hopetoun where boat launching is a common activity and occurs close to the same area used for swimming and other recreational uses.

It is recognised that the land use conflicts within the Shire are not as significant as other, higher use coastal locations within the State. The low-key ATRR vehicle locations are likely to experience the least land use conflicts. However, higher use sites such as the Hopetoun beaches and Mason Bay sometimes experience land use conflicts between different beach activities. This can also lead to safety risks. The vehicle exclusion areas along the Shire‟s coastline are described in the Shire of Ravensthorpe Local Government Property Local Law 2010. Some recommendations have been Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

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included in the Action Plans which specifically aim to help reduce the potential for land use conflicts by separating different activities along the beach. Other actions such as providing signage and ranger patrols of the coast can also help reduce land use conflicts by ensuring that prohibited activities do not occur.

Objectives To ensure that existing and potential land use conflicts are identified and that the management actions address these conflicts To ensure that facilities provided are adequate to provide for future permanent and visitor populations over the next 10 years and the different recreational activities along the coast To ensure that the provision of facilities and the resolution of land use conflicts can also assist in environmental management.

Strategies The strategies in relation to facilities within the Shires coastal reserves are as follows: F1.

Replace, install and/or maintain the amenities at all coastal locations (toilets, shelters, barbeques, picnic areas, seating, etc.) where necessary.

F2.

Consider adopting a consistent design style for all furniture established within coastal reserves.

F3.

Ensure appropriate signage is located at each coastal reserve including the name of the location, directional information, safety and emergency information, land use and restrictions, and interpretative information where appropriate), based on current standards.

F4.

Prepare a signage strategy which includes guidelines for interpretative signs (containing cultural, environmental and educational information).

F5.

Ensure signage is consistent and does not obstruct views.

F6.

Encourage coastal users to take their rubbish home with them for disposal.

F7.

Ensure all popular coastal sites are adequately serviced with rubbish bins, amenities etc.

F8.

Continue to enforce a no camping rule within all the Shireâ€&#x;s coastal reserves unless itâ€&#x;s carried out within formal camping and caravan areas with assistance of Shire rangers.

F9.

Ensure that illegal squatters and their dwellings are removed to avoid setting precedence and future issues associated with this land use.

F10.

Ensure existing and new facilities within the Shireâ€&#x;s coastal reserves are accessible by the disabled where possible.

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The strategies in relation to land use conflicts are as follows: LUC1.

Ensure enforcement of the boat launching area at Hopetoun Beach and the vehicle exclusion area from the boat launching area to West Beach and the beach directly adjoining Mason Bay camping area.

LUC2.

6.8

Monitor the effectiveness of the Dog Prohibited Areas and change if necessary.

Heritage

Issues There are three existing Native Title claims along the Shire‟s coastline (Bullenbuk-Noongar, Southern Noongar and Wagyl Kaip). These claims have implications for the management and activities within the coastal reserves. Consultation with Native Title Claimants is required for „notifiable works‟.

All private freehold titles granted before 1st January 1994 extinguishes native title because it includes the right to exclude others from private property. Native Title however may exist over vacant Crown Land, reserves, water features and other public places.

There are no identified Aboriginal Heritage sites (as listed in the DIA database) within the Shire‟s coastal reserves. There are also no registered European heritage sites. The protection and value of the Aboriginal and European heritage of the Shire‟s coast should be more thoroughly researched and documented, and known sites protected and valuable information shared amongst the community and with visitors.

There is potential for the Shire to work with the Aboriginal groups in the region in the management of coastal areas.

Objectives To further recognise and promote areas of Indigenous and European significance and aim to educate the public of the value and importance of certain sites.

Strategies The strategies in relation to heritage are as follows: H1.

Continue to liaise with local Indigenous representatives to ensure a culturally sensitive approach to recreational activities and the provision of visitor amenities in coastal reserves.

H2.

Consider the implementation of interpretative signage which describes the Indigenous heritage of the area (if requested by local traditional landowners).

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H3.

Consult with Indigenous representatives during any future biodiversity surveys to develop a better understanding of the Noongar traditional values and uses of biodiversity of coastal reserves.

H4.

Encourage and provide support to the Department of Indigenous Affairs to conduct a cultural landscape study across the Shire‟s coastal reserves.

6.9

Community Involvement

Issues Public education and community involvement is one of the key factors behind the success of any coastal management program. It encourages local residents to be involved in their surrounding environment which helps increase their knowledge and appreciation of the area and feel a sense of „ownership‟. Community involvement can be fun, rewarding and provide an arena for people to gettogether as a team.

It is also important for the Shire to recognise that some community members who do not participate in community groups might also want the opportunity to be involved and/or want to learn more about the area.

There are a number of different ways in which the community can be involved in coastal protection and management. These are listed below: Hold a Coastal Education Program aiming to increase public awareness of the coastal issues, protection of the environment and the rules for beach use.

Hold a workshop on seed collection, plant identification and revegetation. If the workshop can be run by an expert in the field, this will help participants trust the information provided.

Organise practical activities which involve weed control, dune stabilisation, planting and plant identification.

Organise rubbish clean-up days.

Involve the local schools and children groups to be actively involved in coastal management.

They can learn about the coastal environment in class and be involved in activities on the coast. They can design coast and marine posters to display at the beach as a class project.

Run activities as part of national Weedbuster Week in October (www.weedbusterweek.info.au).

Objectives To provide opportunities for local residents and visitors to learn about and be involved in the protection and management of the Shire‟s coastal reserves.

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

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Strategies The strategies for community involvement are as follows: CI1.

Support programs that actively engage the local community in managing the Shireâ€&#x;s coastal reserves.

CI2.

Provide opportunities for the community to be involved in rehabilitation, monitoring, flora and fauna surveys, facility and access management etc.

CI3.

Provide support for existing community groups which focus on coastal management.

CI4.

Assist and encourage the community with forming “Friends of Coastal Reserves� groups.

CI5.

Undertake ongoing public education and engagement programs to encourage the conservation and care for coastal biodiversity and bird nesting sites e.g. Shorebird nesting sites.

CI6.

Include coastal safety in any coastal education and awareness program developed for the Shire of Ravensthorpe.

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7.1

Introduction

This chapter provides the Action Plan for the Shire‟s coastal reserves. It refers to the most popular or well-used coastal sites and includes a description of the site and recommendations for the management. The coastal sites managed by the Shire have been grouped into sectors. The sectors are as follows: Sector 1 – West of Hopetoun Sector 2 – Hopetoun Beaches Sector 3 – Two Mile Beach to Eighteen Mile Beach Sector 4 – Mason Point, Mason Bay and Starvation Boat Harbour.

The aim of this chapter is to provide a description of each coastal sector (including its use and current management issues), outline the objectives and to describe in detail the recommended actions to help achieve these objectives. Detailed site plans are provided for each sector or coastal site in Figures 7.1a to 7.4g.

7.2

Sector 1 – West of Hopetoun (Hamersley Inlet (Reserve 17544), Culham Inlet (Reserve 34998), Four Mile Beach and Whale Beach Estate)

Hamersley Inlet Description Hamersley Inlet Reserve (R17544) is located 27km to the west of Hopetoun and is approximately 97ha in size. The reserve lies on the eastern side of the Hamersley Inlet and extends from the northern end of the inlet to the beach. It is surrounded by the Fitzgerald River National Park which is managed by the DEC. The purpose of the reserve is for camping. A small car park and camping area is located at the end of a gravel road, approximately halfway along the reserve, close to the inlet.

A management plan was prepared for the reserve in 1988 and a number of recommendations were implemented. Use of the site has increased considerably since that time and detailed site planning is required to help manage use of the site and to relieve environmental pressure and land use conflicts.

The DEC (in conjunction with the Shire) are currently preparing a management plan for Hamersley Inlet.

Therefore, no specific recommendations have been included in this report as they will be addressed in the DEC management plan for the area.

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Culham Inlet Description The Culham Inlet beach is located at the southern edge of the inlet along Hamersley Drive. It consists of two gravel car parks situated on the southern side of Hamersley Drive and two pedestrian tracks to the beach. The car parks were once connected to each other but the western car park is now used by Main Roads WA and is closed to the public. The western pathway is also closed.

View of Culham Inlet, looking north from the car park

It is anticipated that a detailed plan will be prepared for the western car park and pathway by Main Roads WA (in conjunction with the CIMG). The plan will include recommendations relating to the implementation of signage, seating, shelters and bird hides as well as the expansion of the car park and possible improvements to the pedestrian path.

This location and the surrounding inlet and beach foreshore areas are highly important for shorebird nesting and feeding. Increased protection is needed to ensure these areas are not further damaged from human use. Uncontrolled vehicle access from Hamersley Drive needs to be closed.

The redevelopment of the car park and pedestrian tracks will help revitalise this site and help protect further uncontrolled access to foreshore areas and protection of environmental values.

The existing pedestrian path extending from the eastern car park is well-maintained, however the post and rail fencing along the beach is being buried in sand. The pathway will need to be maintained and managed as appropriate. The fencing should be removed or replaced if it becomes a safety hazard. The vegetation over the primary dunes is in good condition and shows little signs of disturbance. However, if duplicate tracks appear at this site then it might be necessary to extend or replace the post and rail fencing to make it clear where the formal track is located. The Action Plan for this location Figure 7.1a.

The entrance to the pedestrian access path at Culham Inlet car park

The Fitzgerald River National Park (DEC managed reserve) adjoins this reserve only a short distance to the west. Dogs are prohibited from the DEC managed reserve. The park is also baited with 1080 poisoned fox baits which are also poisonous to dogs.

Visitors need to be made aware of this from signage.

Dogs should be prohibited from the car park pathway westwards to the National Park.

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

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Four Mile Beach Description Four Mile Beach is situated approximately 400 metres to the east of the Culham Inlet beach car park. A gravel car park is situated on the southern side of Hamersley Drive. It is limited in size and only accommodates 6 vehicles and might require some expansion in the future to cater for increased visitor numbers and to help prevent illegal parking and damage to dunes and vegetation. Bollards have been established around the perimeter of the car park.

Entrance to the car park is dangerous due to the curve in the road. Safety and directional signage should be erected on the road to advise drivers of cars entering and exiting the car park.

A well-established pedestrian pathway consisting of sand tracks and wooden boardwalks (which extend over the coastal vegetation) leads to the beach. This pathway should continue to be maintained and managed appropriately.

The pedestrian access path at Four Mile Beach Another track leads off the car park which is wide enough for vehicle access. No vehicle access is available to the beach, however there is evidence that suggests that vehicle access was once possible from this track. These tracks have been affected by the moving dune system which has resulted in very steep and unstable dunes which are too difficult to drive over. A makeshift barrier has been placed across the entrance to discourage access.

This old vehicle track leads to a cleared area which is View of the cleared day-use area. This site is sometimes nestled behind the foredunes. It is mostly cleared used for informal camping and in the past for tethering and flat and consists of numerous pine poles which camels to the pine poles. have been placed vertically throughout the area. It is understood that this area was in the past used by a tourist-based camel-riding service and camels were tethered to the pine poles while rides took place along the beach. This area is sometimes used as a picnic area and possibly for informal camping. The site should be managed as a low-key picnic area and some picnic tables and BBQs established. Illegal camping should be discouraged through increased ranger presence, appropriate signage and by directing campers to designated areas (such as Hamersley Inlet). This area might need further monitoring by the Shire to determine the popularity and use of the site and whether it might warrant closure. The Action Plan for this location Figure 7.1b.

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Dune blowouts are occurring in this area, most likely through vegetation removal, sand erosion and access to these areas. These areas should be rehabilitated and revegetated as a priority to prevent further erosion and expansion of existing blowouts.

Whale Bay Estate Description Whale Bay Estate is a rural residential area which stretches along the coast to the west of Hopetoun.

The beach does not have a formal name, but for the purpose of this report is called Whale Bay Estate.

A large car park is situated at the end of Beach Place. Pedestrian access is provided to the beach via an access track. However the 300m long walk to the beach has resulted in the removal of bollards around the car park so that 4WDs can drive over the dunes so that beach users donâ€&#x;t need to walk so far. It is therefore recommended that a second car park is constructed a bit further south, at a location closer to the beach and that pedestrian access is continued from this car park.

View of the car park at Whale Bay Estate transferring it into a reserve.

A number of informal tracks (either used for pedestrian and/or vehicle access) have been created which extend from various locations throughout the estate to the beach and across the dunes. These additional tracks should be closed and managed appropriately to ensure that further tracks are not created. Formalising certain tracks for beach access and closing informal tracks also helps to reduce management costs for the Shire. If every house along the estate creates their own track to the beach then the Shire would have many multiple tracks to manage.

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

Vehicles also gain access to this beach by travelling along the firebreak located along the eastern side of the estate. A small car park has been established at the end of the firebreak close to the beach. The firebreak is actually situated on the adjoining lot with is Unallocated Crown Land (UCL) and therefore the public should not be accessing this track. The Shire also cannot manage the track. However, the end of the track and the car park are located within the Shireâ€&#x;s coastal reserve. It is therefore recommended that the tenure is changed so that this access point can be formalised. The Shire should investigate obtaining the western strip of the UCL which contains the firebreak and

Evidence of vehicle access tracks leading from the car park into the surrounding vegetation and possibly across the dunes to a location closer to the beach.

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An informal vehicle access track has been created at the eastern end of the estate which stretches along the secondary dune system from the eastern firebreak. It is recommended that this vehicle access is closed.

A thin section of land is between Lots 36 and 37 are contained on a separate lot (Lot 55) which is owned by the State of WA. A track leads from Whale Bay Drive to the firebreak and it is assumed that this lot is a fire vehicle access track. There is evidence that the public are travelling along this track and driving along informal tracks through the dunes. It is therefore recommended that fire gates are erected at either end of the track which allow access for emergency vehicles only.

The Action Plan for this location is Figure 7.1c.

It should be noted that the Coastal Moort along this section of the coast has regional significance.

Actions The recommended actions are depicted in Figures 7.1a-7.1c.

Culham Inlet beach S1-1

Ensure the preparation of a detailed plan for the western end of the car park area and the western pedestrian access track to the beach is carried out by Main Roads WA in consultation with the Culham Inlet Management Group.

S1-2

Maintain and manage the eastern pedestrian track at Culham Inlet as appropriate.

S1-3

Replace signage at Culham Inlet which is consistent with signage at other coastal locations throughout the Shire and the surf lifesaving standards. Signage should include a warning that 1080 baiting is used in the adjoining DEC National Park.

S1-4

Erect a bird hide in the foreshore area along the Culham Inlet to the north of the car park (the exact location to be determined following consultation with the Culham Inlet Management Group) and construct a pedestrian path to this site.

Four Mile Beach S1-5

Formalise the barrier across the access track to the picnic area with bollards.

S1-6

Formalise the picnic area nestled behind the foredunes with picnic benches and a BBQ.

S1-7

Investigate the possibility of expanding the car park if visitor use increases.

S1-8

Erect directional and safety signage along both sides of Hamersley Drive to advise drivers of the location of Four Mile Beach and vehicles entering and exiting the car park.

S1-9

Erect „No camping‟ and „No fire‟ signage within the picnic area.

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S1-10

Maintain the car park area, pedestrian track to the beach and the day-use picnic area as appropriate.

Whale Bay Estate S1-11

Create a second car park to the south of existing car park at Beach Place to provide closer access to the beach. The exact location of the car park is to be determined by the appropriate specialist.

S1-12

Revert a section of the pedestrian path linking the Beach Place car park to the new car park to vehicle access.

S1-13

Close public access to the firebreak vehicle tracks on the eastern side Whale Bay Estate with fire gates as this is on UCL and not Shire-managed land.

S1-14

Close and rehabilitate informal pedestrian and vehicle access tracks along the estate.

S1-15

Erect fire gates at either end of the access track on Lot 55.

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R 31738

S1-4

R 34998

Ăž

Close access S1-1

HA ME

Car Park area currently occupied by Main Roads no public access

RS

Y

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A I

S1-3

DR IV

E

S1-2

R 33173

Actions

Legend Cadastre

S1-1

DEC managed lands (National Park)

Culham Inlet car park and access points are subject to a detailed management plan to be prepared by Main Roads in conjunction with the Culham Inlet Management Group.

Shire managed reserves

S1-2

Maintain pedestrian access track.

Formal pedestrian access

S1-3

Replace and upgrade signage at car park.

Close informal track and rehabilitate

S1-4

Erect bird hide along the Culham Inlet foreshore and link to the car park via a pedestrian pathway.

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Date: 8/03/2011

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Figure 7.1a

Culham Inlet Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

R 34998

Þ

M HA

EY ER SL

S1-8

DRIVE

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Close Access

Close Access

S1-6 S1-7

Sand track

A I

Wooden Boardwalk

S1-10

S1-5 Day use low key Picnic Area

S1-10

S1-6

R 33173

Dune blowouts

S1-10

S1-9

Dune blowouts

S1-5 S1-6 S1-7 S1-8 S1-9

Actions

Erect bollards along entrance to picnic area to prevent vehicle access.

Legend

Formalise Picnic Area.

Investigate possible car park expansion in the future.

Erect safety and directions signage.

Cadastre

Day use / low key picnic area

Formal pedestrian access path

Shire managed Reserves

Erect "No Camping" and "No Fire" signage.

S1-10 Maintain car park, pedestrian access and picnic area as appropriate.

A I

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Date: 8/03/2011

Car Park

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COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

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Plan: 7-1b Four Mile Beach.mxd

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Figure 7.1b

FOUR MILE BEACH Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

HA M

Firebreak

ER S

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D R IV

Parking area

S1-14

R 26794 R 26794

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Firebreak R 33173

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R 33173

S1-14

Close Access

S1-15 UCL

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Firebreak

Close Access

S1-14

S1-14 Legend

S1-14

Cadastre Formal pedestrian access path Close and rehabilitate access tracks

A I

R 41371 R 41371

Informal parking area

Vehicular access Firebreak Car Park

Actions

Investigate the establishment of a second car park closer to the beach.

S1-12 Revert a section of the pedestrian path to vehicle access.

S1-13 Close vehicle access on UCL by erecting fire gates and signage.

S1-14 Close and rehabilitate informal tracks.

S1-11

S1-15 Erect fire gates.

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Date: 8/03/2011

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Plan: 7-1c Whale Bay Estate.mxd

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Figure 7.1c

Whale Bay Estate Beach

Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

7.3

Sector 2 – Hopetoun Beaches (Reserves 35379, 49744, 22810 and 28280)

Description Sector 2 comprises the Shire managed coastal areas immediately surrounding the Hopetoun townsite.

It extends from the car park areas at Mary Ann Waters Estate at the western side to Phillips Street at the eastern end. Management of this section of the coast is also addressed in the Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Site Development Plans (Craig, 1997) and the Hopetoun Foreshore Site Development Plan (Bennett, 2001). Recommendations for improvement of the facilities and infrastructure of the Hopetoun beaches was also addressed in the 2001 CMP. Table 7.1 below contains a summary of each beach access and location at Hopetoun and the issues and recommendations relating to each area.

Table 7.1 – Issues and recommendations for beach access areas at Hopetoun

Path # 1

Location name/Address Western end of Canning Boulevard, Mary Ann Waters Estate.

Issues Currently well managed. No current issues.

Recommendations Continue to manage car parking areas and pedestrian pathways to the beach.

Action # S2-1 S2-2

2

Centre of Canning Boulevard, Mary Ann Waters Estate.

Currently well managed. No current issues.

Continue to manage pedestrian pathway.

S2-1

3

Eastern end of Canning Boulevard, Mary Ann Waters Estate.

Currently well managed. End of path crosses outside of the reserve and onto UCL. UCL adjoining Pathway 3 (on R48879) and West Beach has numerous informal tracks.

Shire to investigate purchasing UCL at the western side of Hopetoun to enable management of this coastal area and access to the beach.

Erect signs on Templetonia Drive stating that no vehicle access to the beach is

S2-1 S2-2 S2-4 S2-16

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Path # 4

Location name/Address West Beach.

5

Access from within the caravan park.

6

Access from within the caravan park.

7

Access from within the caravan park.

8

Access from within the caravan park.

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

Issues Currently well managed.

The car park and a portion of the pathway is within the Road Reserve.

Quad bikes use this track to access the beach.

No current issues, but some risk of vegetation disturbance and side tracks if not managed appropriately. The path is wide enough for vehicle access and tyre tracks are evident.

Recommendations permitted.

Continue to manage the car park, toilets, picnic areas, BBQs and pedestrian access to the beach.

These areas should be incorporated into the Shire-managed coastal reserve. Close access for quad bikes.

Action # S2-1 S2-2 S2-3

S2-14

Continue to manage appropriately (conjunctively between the caravan park owners and the Shire) and close if dune and vegetation degradation is occurring.

S2-5

No current issues, but some risk of vegetation disturbance and side tracks if not managed appropriately.

As above.

S2-5

Pathway is difficult to find and probably overgrown and not well-used.

No current issues, but some risk of vegetation disturbance and side tracks if not managed appropriately.

Close pathway.

S2-6

Continue to manage appropriately (conjunctively between the caravan park owners and the Shire) and close if dune and vegetation degradation is occurring.

S2-5

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Path # 9

Location name/Address Esplanade – east of the Hopetoun caravan park.

Issues Well managed pedestrian path. One of the main pedestrian access points to the beach for locals. More street parking is required.

Recommendations Create street parking along the road for people that wish to access the beach from this pathway.

Action # S2-1 S2-7

10

Boat launching access along Esplanade and the parking/recreation area.

The vehicle access is well-established and maintained, however a parking area is required and a boat launching area should be delineated along the beach.

Provide more formal parking along the street.

Delineate a boat launching area along the beach to prevent vehicles from travelling too far along the beach.

S2-8 S2-15

The access tracks to the beach from the gravel car park north of the groyne are well-managed.

11

Main Hopetoun recreation/playground area.

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

The car park and a portion of the pathway is within the Road Reserve.

Some dune degradation has occurred from informal access.

Formal access is not properly defined.

Continue to manage car park, pedestrian pathways to the beach and toilets as appropriate.

These areas should be incorporated into the Shire-managed coastal reserve.

Need to more accurately define pedestrian access to the beach otherwise there is a risk that the entire dune area along this stretch will becomes degraded.

Prohibit access to informal paths with fencing and by accurately defining where access can be obtained and revegetate. Erect a fence to the rear of the buildings backing onto the dunes to discourage access. Also delineate and formalise a

S2-1 S2-2 S2-3

S2-14

S2-1 S2-2 S2-3 S2-6 S2-9 S2-10

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Path #

Location name/Address

Issues The main car park area to the west of the groyne is not obviously linked to the main playground area to the east.

These areas should be linked through pathways, landscape features etc.

Path is wellmaintained with fencing on either side and steps to the beach.

Recommendations pedestrian pathway closer to the playground.

12

East of Hopetoun groyne.

13

East of Hopetoun groyne.

Appears to be an informal access path, not as wellestablished as the others nearby.

14

East of Hopetoun groyne.

Path is wellmaintained with fencing on either side and steps to the beach.

15

East of Hopetoun groyne.

The pathway is generally in good condition except for the end closest to the beach where the sand has eroded from the tyres and fencing and is causing a safety hazard.

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

Action #

Link the two recreation areas on either side of the groyne.

S2-11

Continue to manage pedestrian pathway.

S2-1

Recommend that this pathway is closed and revegetated. Other formal pathways are located in very close proximity.

The pathway should be managed and maintained as appropriate.

S2-6

The tyres and fencing at the end of the path needs to be removed.

The pathway should be managed and maintained as appropriate. Retain post and rail fencing along the path and prevent widening of the pathway or creation of duplicate paths for vehicle access.

S2-1 S2-12 S2-13

S2-1

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Objectives To improve the provision of facilities to sustain higher use at the Hopetoun beaches and to continue to manage the environment to prevent degradation and land use pressure.

Actions The recommended actions for the Hopetoun beaches are shown in Figures 7.2a-7.2e. The Hopetoun foreshore area is split onto four separate plans (Mary Ann Waters Estate, western Hopetoun, southern Hopetoun and eastern Hopetoun). An index plan is shown on Figure 7.2a.

S2-1.

Maintain pedestrian pathways as appropriate.

S2-2.

Maintain car parking areas as appropriate (ensure vehicle do not encroach on surrounding vegetation, replace damaged bollards, maintain car park surface etc.)

S2-3.

Maintain toilet facilities and picnic facilities (benches, shelters and BBQs).

S2-4.

Investigate purchasing a portion of the UCL adjoining R 48879 so that the existing pedestrian pathway is included within a Shire-managed reserve. Purchasing the entire UCL area should also be considered.

S2-5.

Maintain pedestrian pathways from the caravan park as appropriate in conjunction with the Hopetoun Caravan Park and close if the vegetation and dune systems show signs of degradation and too much disturbance.

S2-6.

Close and rehabilitate informal pedestrian access pathways.

S2-7.

Establish further street parking along Esplanade to provide access to track number 9

S2-8.

Formalise street parking along Esplanade near the existing vehicle access and boat launching area.

S2-9.

Delineate and formalise pedestrian access to the beach from the existing picnic and recreation area near Hopetoun Groyne. Access should be located close to the majority of facilities, use existing informal access tracks and be properly signposted and fenced to make it clear which access track should be used.

S2-10.

Erect fencing along the back of the toilets and other buildings located within the picnic and recreation area to prohibit informal access across the dunes.

S2-11.

Provide a link between the picnic and recreation area to the east of Hopetoun Groyne and the public facilities to the west of the groyne with appropriate landscaping, pathways, signage and other means.

S2-12.

Prevent widening of pedestrian pathways and retain existing fencing along the path in order to discourage vehicle access.

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S2-13.

Remove fallen tyres and railings at the end of the pedestrian pathways and revert to sand tracks only.

S2-14.

Incorporate Shire-managed coastal car parks and recreation areas which are currently located in Road Reserves into the Shire-managed coastal reserves.

S2-15.

Delineate a 30m wide boat launching area along the beach directly to the west of the Hopetoun Groyne where the vehicle access is located and enforce the existing vehicle exclusion area along the foreshore along the remainder of Hopetoun beaches.

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R 46891 R 46889 R 46890

HOPETOUN WEST MAW PLAN 1 R 48592

R 36272 R 36822 R 48880

R 40521

HOPETOUN EAST

R 34217

R 41421

R 43222 R 48879

R 35585

R 48944 R 44732

R 34289

R 34286 R 34287

R 35584

R 34290

R 28280

R 25169 R 14378

R 34291

R 34497

R 34288

HOPETOUN WEST PLAN 2

R 7661

R 35293

R 19779

HOPETOUN SOUTH R 36006

R 25270 R 22810

R 35379

R 38997

Legend

Cadastre

Shire managed reserves

Location plans - Hopetoun

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Date: 11/03/2011

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COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN Figure7.2a HOPETOUN

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Mary Ann Waters Estate

Street parking

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Formal pedestrian access

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Dr ive

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Path number UCL

Shire managed Reserves

S2-1

Portion of UCL to be incorporated into Shire reserve

A I

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Car Park

Vehicles prohibited

Actions S2-1

Maintain pedestrian pathway

S2-2

Maintain car park areas

Investigate purchasing a portion of UCL adjoining R 48879 so that the existing path is within the shire reserve S2-16 Erect 'No Vehicle Access to Beach' signage on Templetonia Drive

S2-4

R 35379

F

UNIT 1/1 ALVAN STREET, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6929 PHONE: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMAIL: admin@landinsights.com.au

Date: 4/10/2011

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COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN Figure 7.2b

HOPETOUN WEST - Mary Ann Waters Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

R 34287 UCL

Close Access

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toilets

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picnic tables and shade area

DOUGLAS ST

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S2-5 Vehicles prohibited

R 34288

West Beach

5 6

ESPLANADE

Hopetoun Caravan Park

S2-5

WEST ST

R 25270

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S2-6

Vehicles prohibited

Street Parking

Lookout and Bench

7

S2-7 S2-5

8 R 35379

Actions S2-1

Maintain pedestrian pathways

S2-2

Maintain car park areas

S2-3

Maintain toilet and picnic facilities

S2-5

Maintain pedestrian pathways from the Caravan park and close if evidence of disturbance to dunes and vegetation

S2-6

Close and rehabilitate pedestrian access enter text here Establish further street parking along Esplanade

S2-7 S2-14

Incorporate Shire-managed coastal car parks and reacreation areas which are currently located within Road Reserves into Shire-managed coastal reserves

Legend

Vehicles prohibited

Cadastre Formal pedestrian access path

9

Vehicular access

8

Close informal track and rehabilitate Path number Shire managed reserves

A I

Car Park Dogs prohibited

UNIT 1/1 ALVAN STREET, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6929 PHONE: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMAIL: admin@landinsights.com.au

Date: 4/10/2011

S2-1

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Plan: 7-2c Hopetoun West_2.mxd

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COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 75

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Figure 7.2c

HOPETOUN - West Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

S2-1

S2-2 S2-3

S2-6 S2-8 S2-9 S2-10

S2-11 S2-14

Maintain car park areas.

Maintain toilet and picnic/playground facilities.

Close and rehabilitate pedestrian access.

Provide formal street parking along Esplanade to service CLARKE ST the boat launching area. enter text here Delineate and formalise pedestrian access from the park.

Erect fencing along the dunes behind the exisiting building and playground to discourage informal access.

CWA Freehold

Provide a link betweeen the park and the car park on either side of the groyne.

Incorporate Shire-managed coastal car parks and reacreation areas which are currently located within Road Reserves into Shire-managed coastal reserves.

Playground area

Delineate a boat launching area and vehicle exclusion zone to the west to West Beach.

Toilets

S2-6

S2-6

S2-11 S2-14

A I

S2-9 S2-1

S2-10

Hotel

Boat launching access

S2-8

A I

A I S2-3

VEA L ST

Provide formalised street parking

ESPLANADE

S2-2

Railway Heritage Information Centre

BARNETT ST

S2-15

Actions

Maintain pedestrian pathways.

Toilets

S2-9 S2-1

11

Vehicles prohibited

S2-3

A I

S2-2

S2-6 Vehicles prohibited

Cadastre

S2-1

Boat Launching Area and Vehicle Access

Legend

10

Hopetoun main boat ramp

Vehicles prohibited

Vehicle access for boat launching Formal pedestrian access

Close informal track and rehabilitate

8

Fencing

Path number

Shire managed Reserves

Hopetoun Groyne

Vehicles permitted Dogs prohibited

A I

Car Park

UN IT 1/1 A LVAN STREET, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6929 PHON E: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMAIL: adm in@ landinsights.com.au

Date: 23/05/2011

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Plan: 7-2d Hopetoun South.mxd

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COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 40

Figure 7.2d

HOPETOUN - South Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

BUCKIE ST

R 35585

C

N

M

Street Parking

R 19779

S2-1

S2-6

12

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Firebreak

Limestone pedestrian pathway

R 34497

ST

S2-1

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R 25169 R 14378

R 35584

W DA

HA

RS BE

ES

A PL

NA

R 28280

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S2-1 Fallen tyres and fencing

S2-12 S2-13

15

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R 22810 Vehicles prohibited

Legend

Cadastre Firebreak

8

A I S2-1 S2-6

Formal pedestrian access path Close informal track and rehabilitate Path number

Shire managed Reserves Car Park

Actions

Maintain pedestrian pathway

Close and rehabilitate informal pathway

S2-12 Prevent widening at pathway to discourage vehicle access S2-13 Remove fallen tyres and fencing and revert to sand track

UN IT 1/1 A LVAN STREET, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6929 PHON E: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMAIL: adm in@ landinsights.com.au

Date: 11/03/2011

F

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1:5,000

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Plan: 7-2e Hopetoun East.mxd

COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 150

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Figure 7.2e

HOPETOUN - East

Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

7.4

Sector 3 – East of Hopetoun (Reserves 28280 and 40157)

Two Mile Beach Description Two Mile Beach is a small beach located east of Hopetoun which is protected from winds by a large headland to the west. It is popular for swimming, picnicking, walking and some camping. This location consists of two separate car parking areas each of which cater for picnicking and BBQs. Car park one is the larger of the two and consists of picnic tables, gas barbeque, a septic toilet and walk trails. Car park two is located to the west of car park one and consists of picnic tables, a barbeque and pedestrian View of car park one taken from the pedestrian access to the beach. Camping needs to be access path. prohibited in this location for management reasons (such as increased costs to the Shire to control erosion, vegetation disturbance, clear rubbish etc.).

The landscape in this location consists of very steep foredunes which are subject to strong winds from the ocean. This leads to a high degree of erosion and dune movement. It is not recommended that permanent structures are placed on the foredunes as the sand will move around and underneath these structures which can eventually lead to their destruction. This is evidenced by the tyres which have been placed along the pedestrian path extending west from car park 2. The tyres which were placed over the primary dunes closest to the beach are now falling away which is a safety hazard. It also appears that a duplicate path has been created next to the tyres, most likely because people have felt unsafe to walk over them.

View of the fallen tyres at the end of the pedestrian access path.

Therefore it is recommended that the tyres which are falling away and unstable are removed. As the dunes are very steep and difficult to climb over, it is

recommended that timber steps are established at this location. Although the basic structure of the steps are permanent, they are still elevated off the dunes which means that the sand can move underneath without affecting the structural integrity of the steps too much. As Two Mile Beach is a popular recreational beach, it is considered that investment in timber steps at this location would be justified.

There have been some paths created from the beach over the dunes to the car parks at other locations. Side tracks extending from formal tracks have also been created. It is Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

One of many informal pedestrian tracks which have been created through the dunes.

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recommended that these informal tracks are closed and rehabilitated with brushing and revegetation.

These tracks are shown on Figure 7.3a.

A pedestrian track currently exists linking the two car parking areas together. A recent plan prepared by the Shire shows the closure of this path, however it is recommended that it remains open as itâ€&#x;s considered that visitors will want to travel between the two car parking areas with ease. A viewing platform should also be established somewhere along this track.

Camping and the use of fires at this location should continue to be discouraged. Signage could be erected to direct visitors to the location of the nearest camping areas.

Lookouts One, Two, Three and Four Description A few lookouts areas have been established along Southern Ocean Road where the landscape offers spectacular views of the ocean and hinterland. The lookouts consist of small gravel parking areas which are either located just off the main road or at the end of a short sand track.

Itâ€&#x;s important that appropriate signage is implemented to make drivers aware that lookout areas and car parks exist along this section. Refer to Figures 7.3b, 7.3c, 7.3d and 7.3f.

Lookout One Lookout One is located at the eastern-most lookout and is located at the northern side of Southern Ocean Road.

The lookout is located at a point where the road bends and comes over a hill so there is a safety risk when turning right into and out of the car park. Appropriate signage should be erected to warn drivers of the safety hazards. Directional signage should also be erected to make drivers aware of the lookout and car park.

View east from the car park at Lookout One. Lookout Two Lookout Two is located further to the east of Lookout One and is situated on the southern side of Southern Ocean Road. A vehicle track provides access from the car park to the beach but no formal pedestrian access is provided. It is considered generally unsafe for pedestrians and vehicles to use the same access track. The track passes over steep dunes which provided limited vision of whatâ€&#x;s coming from the other side and has a few blind corners. It is recommended that a separate pedestrian path is provided leading from the car park to the beach. Limited vehicle access is provided at nearby locations along this stretch of the coast, so it is considered important that the vehicle access remains open at this site.

Vehicle and pedestrian access track to the beach at Lookout Two Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

Duplicate tracks have been created from the main vehicle access track which will eventually lead to more vegetation disturbance and dune Page 74

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erosion which could have major environment repercussions. These additional and duplicate tracks should be closed to prevent damage to vegetation, dune erosion and the creation for further tracks.

The car park lacks signage containing information about the location, permitted and prohibited uses on the beach, safety and emergency information and the distance to the beach. Signage should be erected in an appropriate location which does not obstruct views. It should be consistent with other signage used at coastal locations along the southern coast and use symbols used by the surf lifesaving association. It should also indicate the walking distance to the beach and warn pedestrians not to use the vehicle access track.

Lookout Three Lookout Three is located further east from Lookout Two. It consists of a gravel parking area next to the road and vehicle access track and an informal pedestrian access to the beach. The car park is situated at the top of a high dune and the steep vehicle and pedestrian access tracks lead to a rocky limestone headland.

The vehicle track is accessed from the main road and joins onto the pedestrian pathway about midway along. It is generally considered unsafe for View of the car park at Lookout Three. pedestrians and vehicles to use the same access tracks. Therefore, these uses need to be separated or the vehicle access prohibited altogether.

Considering vehicle access is provided a very short distance away at Lookout Two, it is considered unnecessary for vehicle access to be provided at this location also. The beach area at Lookout Three has more limestone ridges than Lookout Two, which probably makes the latter mentioned access safer.

View of the very steep pedestrian access track across the dunes at Lookout Three.

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

The car park lacks signage containing information about the location, permitted and prohibited uses on the beach, safety and emergency information and the distance to the beach. Signage should be erected in an appropriate location which does not obstruct views. It should be consistent with other signage used at coastal locations along the southern coast and use symbols used by the surf lifesaving association. It should also indicate the walking distance to the beach and indicate the nearest location and distance for vehicle access (Lookout Two).

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Lookout Four Lookout Four is located to the east of Five Mile Beach (discussed below). The small gravel car park is situated on the southern side of the main road and offers excellent views of the Jerdacuttup Lakes System. No access is provided to the beach, although a short pedestrian path extends out from the car park to the east. The path has been formalised with a pine handrail and the steps consist of old tyres. New bollards have been placed around the perimeter of the car park to protect surrounding vegetation from encroachment.

View of the Jerdacuttup Wetlands to the north of the car park at Lookout Four.

Directional signage is required along Southern Ocean Road to advise drivers of the lookout and interpretative signage should be erected at the lookout to provide information on the lakes and beach environment. Any informal vehicle tracks near this lookout should be closed.

Five Mile Beach Description Five Mile Beach is located between Lookouts Three and Four and a few hundred metres from the Jerdacuttup Nature Reserve. An offshore intertidal platform at Five Mile Beach provides a sheltered swimming area that is popular with local residents.

View of the car park at Five Mile Beach.

Facilities at Five Mile Beach are limited to a gravel car park and pedestrian pathway to the beach. The site is relatively well maintained and managed. The gravel car park is considered to be of sufficient size. Due to the changes in the coastal environment and the movement of sand and dunes, the pathway needs to be regularly maintained and bollards repaired and replaced when necessary. The end of the pedestrian path consists of wooden steps which lead down the limestone to the beach. These should be regularly inspected and removed and possibly replaced if considered unsafe. Some sidetracks currently exist from the main

pedestrian track. These should be closed by erecting fencing, brushing the dunes and revegetating disturbed areas. The pathway currently leads through the base of a dune blowout which is subject to erosion.

Illegal camping at this location sometimes occurs and needs to be discouraged through increased ranger presence.

Directional signage is located on Southern Ocean Road to advise drivers of the location of the car park.

However, the car park lacks signage containing

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

Fenced pedestrian access path to the beach.

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information about the location, permitted and prohibited uses on the beach, safety and emergency information and the distance to the beach. Signage should be erected in an appropriate location which does not obstruct views. It should be consistent with other signage used at coastal locations along the southern coast and use symbols used by the surf lifesaving association. It should also indicate the walking distance to the beach, clearly state that no vehicle access is available (and indicate the nearest location and distance for vehicle access) and that no camping and lighting of fires is permitted.

The recommended actions for Five Mile Beach are shown on Figure 7.3e.

Six Mile Beach Description Six Mile Beach is located a short distance to the east of Five Mile Beach, directly to the south of the Jerdacuttup Nature Reserve. It consists of a small gravel car park immediately south of the main road and pedestrian access to the beach. No formal vehicle access is provided at this location and it should continue to be discouraged. This site beach is also fairly well managed.

The gravel car park at this location is very small and only suitable for a few cars. Also, cars Pedestrian access path to the beach generally have to reverse onto Southern Ocean Drive direct from the car park which is generally unsafe on such a high speed road. Therefore, it is recommended that the car park is expanded slightly to the south across the area of disturbed vegetation where the start of the pedestrian path currently exists.

The pedestrian pathway has been formalised through the placement of a pine post and rail fence on one side and tyres along the surface of the path for a majority of the way. This method is generally successful along a majority of the path. However, once the path comes over the foredune and is exposed to the strong Southern Ocean winds, the dunes are extremely susceptible to erosion and sand movement. Therefore, the tyres across the primary dunes and especially those at the end of the path have become destabilised and are a safety hazard. The main issue is that semipermanent structures such as these on the foredunes are not suitable to the coastal environment as the sand is eroded underneath them as the dune systems change and move.

It is recommended that the tyres near the beach are removed and that the pathway remains as a sand track which can adapt easily to the changing coastal environment.

Fallen tyres at the end of the pedestrian access path and broken fencing at Six Mile Beach.

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Directional signage is required along Southern Ocean Road to advise drivers of the car park.

This site also lacks signage containing information about the location, permitted and prohibited uses on the beach, safety and emergency information and the distance to the beach. Signage should be erected in an appropriate location which does not obstruct views. It should be consistent with other signage used at coastal locations along the southern coast and use symbols used by the surf lifesaving association. It should also indicate the walking distance to the beach, Entrance to the pedestrian access path and signage at clearly state that no vehicle access is Six Mile Beach. available (and indicate the nearest location and distance for vehicle access) and that no camping and lighting of fires is permitted.

The recommended actions for Six Mile Beach are shown on Figure 7.3g.

Seven Mile Beach Description This site does not consist of a formal car park or access, but is the location of significant dune blowouts and erosion which are in urgent need of management. The width of the coastal reserve at the section is quite narrow and there is not much distance between the beach and Southern Ocean Road. Strong winds and storm surges along this section of the coast will continue to erode these dunes and push the blowouts towards the road, causing the dunes to completely cover the road. This could have major implications on traffic flow and access along the coast.

Rehabilitation and management of the blowouts has taken place since the first CMP was prepared in 1984. However, continued rehabilitation is required such as brushing over the exposed dunes, revegetation with Hairy Spinifex and Acacia rostellifera and discouraging pedestrian access over the dunes.

The recommended actions for Seven Mile Beach are shown on Figure 7.3h.

Castle Rock Beach Description Castle Rock Beach is named after the castle-like limestone outcrop located along the beach. Access from Southern Ocean Road is via a sand track which is only trafficable by ATRR vehicles. It is recommended that this site continue to be managed as a low-key ATRR vehicle site with limited facilities. Regular maintenance should be carried out to prevent evidence of vegetation disturbance, to close any side tracks or duplicate tracks and to prevent camping. The existing side tracks should be closed and rehabilitated with dune brushing and revegetation.

Signage should be erected at the entrance to the vehicle access track at Southern Ocean Road to advise drivers that the track is trafficable by ATRR vehicles only and to recommend that tyres are deflated. Signage should also notify that no camping or lighting of fires is permitted.

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A very small informal parking area situated behind the foredunes. Access from the car park to the beach is only available to motorbikes, quadbikes and pedestrians as the decent to the beach is extremely steep. If visitation to this site increases it may be necessary to increase the size of the car park and formalise it by erecting bollards around the perimeter to prevent encroachment.

There is some evidence of camping at this location and this should be discouraged through signage and regular patrols by the Shire rangers.

The recommended actions for Castle Rock Beach are shown on Figure 7.3i.

Eleven Mile Beach Description The track labelled as Eleven Mile Beach in the previous CMP appears to be closed and overgrown from the access point at Southern Ocean Drive. This suggests that the track has been closed by the Shire.

However, this doesnâ€&#x;t rule out the possibility that access might try to be gained by people in the future.

The Shire should continue to rehabilitate the existing tracks at this location to prevent dune erosion and the formation of dune blowouts. The Shire should also continually monitor this track to make sure it isnâ€&#x;t being used and to redirect drivers to the nearest formal access.

The recommendation to close access at this location was provided in the previous CMP. The decision to close this track was to help reduce management pressures on the Shire in terms of provision of facilities, monitoring of land uses, controlling erosion and environmental protection and rehabilitation.

The recommended actions for Eleven Mile Beach are shown on Figure 7.3j.

Twelve Mile Beach A Description It should be noted that the signage along Southern Ocean Road for the areas labelled as Twelve Mile Beach A, Twelve Mile Beach B and Thirteen Mile Beach in the 2001 CMP are different to the actual signs on the road. Twelve Mile Beach is accessed from two different access points which have been labelled A and B respectively. They are located on the western side of a large lagoon which extends across to Thirteen Mile Beach. The lagoon is fringed by an offshore reef which creates shelters the beach from strong winds and erosion and makes it suitable for swimming.

Twelve Mile Beach A is located approximately 500 metres west of Twelve Mile Beach B. It consists of a gravel car park, brick toilet block and a formal pedestrian pathway to the beach. The beach is sheltered from strong winds and swells from an offshore reef, making it a popular location for swimming, fishing, walking and general beach activities. No vehicle access is provided at this location.

Toilets at Twelve Mile Beach A

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

The pedestrian pathway starts with pine post and rail fencing on either side. The end of the path extends over a steep dune and is unfenced.

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Duplicate tracks have been created which has resulted in vegetation disturbance and dune erosion which might result in the formation of dune blowouts. The duplicate tracks should be brushed and revegetated to help stablise the sand and to make it clear to pedestrians which path they should travel.

Vegetation also needs to be pruned from the pathway where is crosses behind the foredune as required.

Signage should be erected in an appropriate location which does not obstruct views. It should be consistent with other signage used at coastal locations along the southern coast and use symbols used by the surf lifesaving association. It should also indicate the walking distance to the beach, clearly state that no vehicle access is available (and indicate the nearest location and distance for vehicle access at Twelve Mile Beach B) and that no camping and lighting of fires is permitted.

View of the very steep pedestrian access path to the beach

The recommended actions for Twelve Mile Beach A are shown on Figure 7.3k.

Twelve Mile Beach B

Description Twelve Mile Beach B is located approximately 500m east of Twelve Mile Beach A. It is a popular beach for locals and tourists and is used for swimming, walking, picnicking, informal camping and general beach-going.

View of the pedestrian access path to the beach and the lookout on top of the foredune

This location consists of a gravel car park situated close to the main road and a formal pedestrian path which provides access to the beach. The pathway is lined with pine post and rail fencing and is generally well managed and maintained. Some side tracks and duplicate tracks lead from the main path which need to be closed and rehabilitated with dune brushing and revegetation. Continued maintenance is required to ensure the path remains safe and that duplicate tracks and further dune erosion does not occur.

A small lookout area has been established at the peak of the foredune before the decent to the beach.

The sand base of the lookout is being eroded due to the movement of the sand dune. Over time this problem will increase as the dune moves further inland. The lookout should be removed as a permanent structure in this area is not advised on the foredune and exposed to such strong winds.

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A small sheltered picnic area is located at the southern side of the car park. However, there is evidence that this area is sometimes also used for illegal camping. Appropriate signage should be erected to advise that camping at the site is not permitted and the area should continue to be patrolled by rangers. The area could be further developed as a low-key day use/picnic area.

Picnic furniture such as benches and a BBQ can be established and signage provided to advise that camping and lighting of fires is not permitted.

The current extent of dune erosion at the lookout

It is also recommended that the gravel car park is expanded slightly to the east in order to cater for an increase in visitor numbers to the area. The vegetation between the car park and the main road should be maintained to provide some screening.

A separate vehicle track is located approximately 80m to the east of the car park and provides access to the beach, although the access down the foredunes is extremely steep.

As this track is very well formed and the nearest vehicle access is at Lookout Two, it is recommended that this access track remains open. Signage should be erected at the entrance to the track to advise drivers that it is suitable for ATRR vehicles only and to deflate tyres before entering. The signage should also advise that camping and lighting of fires is not permitted.

View of the fenced pedestrian access path Signage should be erected in an appropriate location within the car park with general information in the location. It should be consistent with other signage used at coastal locations along the southern coast and use symbols used by the surf lifesaving association. It should also indicate the walking distance to the beach, indicate that vehicle access for ATRR vehicles is available from the main road to the east and clearly state that no camping and lighting of fires is permitted.

The recommended actions for Twelve Mile Beach B are shown on Figure 7.3l.

Thirteen Mile Beach Description Thirteen Mile Beach is located a short distance to the east of Twelve Mile Beach B. The beach area at this location is still sheltered from the offshore reef which makes this area popular for swimming and general beach activities. It consists of a small sandy car park with informal pedestrian access to the beach.

Side tracks and duplicate tracks have been created from the main access path. The end of the path stops at the top of limestone cliffs which need to be climbed down in order to access the beach.

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

Small informal car park at 13 Mile Beach Page 81

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This location has some local historical significance as it consists of an old set of railway tracks which cross over the dunes and lead to the water. The railway tracks were once used by an old fish cannery to transport goods (refer to Section 6.8).

Old railway tracks over the foredunes

Although pedestrian access to the beach might have been available in the past, it seems that the changing coastal environment has altered this possibility. Access to the beach at this location is difficult because the path ends at a limestone cliff which needs to be climbed down. The stability of

the limestone cliffs is uncertain and poses a safety concern. Given the informal nature of this site, the safety concerns relating to the limestone cliffs and that pedestrian and vehicle access is already available at Twelve Mile Beach (a short distance to the west), it is recommended that this site is closed to all access. Appropriate signage should be erected at the entrance to the car park and at the start of the pedestrian track to advise that access has been closed for safety reasons. The pedestrian path should be rehabilitated (with dune brushing and revegetation) as required.

Informal camping occurs at this location and should be discouraged. Campers can be directed to the formal camping areas at Mason Bay and Starvation Boat Harbour. The area should be monitored by Shire rangers.

View of the top of the limestone cliff at 13 Mile Beach at the end of the pedestrian path before it drops to the beach

The recommended actions for Thirteen Mile Beach are shown on Figure 7.3m.

Fourteen Mile Beach Description Fourteen Mile Beach is accessed from Southern Ocean Road via a sand track which is only trafficable by ATRR vehicles. It is recommended that this site continue to be managed as a low-key ATRR vehicle site with limited facilities. Regular maintenance should be carried out to prevent evidence of vegetation disturbance, to close any side tracks or duplicate tracks and to prevent camping.

Pedestrian access track to the beach

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Signage should be erected at the entrance to the vehicle access track at Southern Ocean Road to advise drivers that the track is trafficable by ATRR vehicles only and to recommend that tyres are deflated. Signage should also notify that no camping or lighting of fires is permitted.

Pedestrian access path and steep descent to the beach

No formal car parking areas or facilities are provided, however some small informal car parking areas have been established along the track behind the foredune. These areas are sometimes used for illegal camping. Access to the beach is only available to pedestrians as the decent to the beach is extremely steep.

A large dune blowout has started to form across the pedestrian track, behind the primary dunes. This area should be closed to all access by erecting fencing along the eastern side of the track which connects to the blowout and by erecting a sign to advise that the dune is being rehabilitated. The blowout should be rehabilitated with dune brushing and revegetation.

The recommended actions for Fourteen Mile Beach are shown on Figure 7.3n.

Informal parking/camping area along the access track

Mullet Bay

Description Mullet Bay is a curved bay located a short distance to the west of Eighteen Mile Beach. The beach is sheltered by an offshore reef which makes the beach suitable for swimming and general beach activities. The bay is surrounded by a high dune system.

It is accessed from Southern Ocean Road via a sand track which is only trafficable by ATRR vehicles.

It is recommended that this site continue to be managed as a low-key ATRR vehicle site with limited facilities. Regular maintenance should be carried out to prevent evidence of vegetation disturbance, to close any side tracks or duplicate tracks and to prevent camping.

A small informal parking area is located behind the dunes and access to the beach is via a pedestrian sand track. The car park is very small and should be formalised if visitation numbers increase over the next 10 years. This includes the provision of signage at the car park (directional, safety, interpretative) and placement of bollards around the perimeter to prevent damage to the surrounding vegetation. The pedestrian track should be properly defined (erecting fencing etc.) and maintained to ensure it stays well defined and that other informal tracks are not formed.

Signage should be erected at the entrance to the vehicle access track at Southern Ocean Road to advise drivers that the track is trafficable by ATRR vehicles only and to recommend that tyres are

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deflated. Signage should also notify that no camping or lighting of fires is permitted and should also indicate where the next closest camping area is located (Mason Bay). There is some evidence of camping at this site which should be discouraged.

The informal vehicle tracks which lead to the east from the main access track should be closed and rehabilitated.

The recommended actions for Mullet Bay are shown on Figure 7.3o.

East Mullet Bay Description East Mullet Bay is located a short distance to the east of the Mullet Bay vehicle access track. It includes a sand vehicle access track which leads to an informal parking area behind the foredunes and pedestrian access to the beach. Another well-formed vehicle access track leads east behind the foredune and stops at another informal parking area. Pedestrian access to the beach is not provided at the second car park.

It is recommended that this site continue to be managed as a low-key ATRR vehicle site with limited facilities. Regular maintenance should be carried out to prevent evidence of vegetation disturbance, to close any side tracks or duplicate tracks and to prevent camping.

Access is from a sand track from Southern Ocean Road which is trafficable by ATRR vehicles and possibly by 2WDs. However, it is recommended that similar signage is placed at the entrance to this access track to advise that only ATRR vehicles are used. This is to prevent damage to the track by 2WDs attempting to traverse the track and might also reduce the occurrence of bogging. Signage should also notify that no camping or lighting of fires is permitted and should also indicate where the next closest camping area is located (Mason Bay).

There are two additional access tracks from Southern Ocean drive which provide access to the same vehicle track. These additional access points are unnecessary and should be closed and rehabilitated through dune brushing and revegetation.

The recommended actions for East Mullet Bay are shown on Figure 7.3p.

Eighteen Mile Beach Description Eighteen Mile Beach is located approximately 500m east of Mullet Bay. It can be accessed from Southern Ocean Drive by a ATRR vehicle track which terminates at the top of a limestone ridge where there is a small car park. A well-defined pedestrian access path extends from the car park to the beach. The path has a rocky base and is not prone to erosion. Another 4WD track extends east of the car park and travels along the foredune ridge and terminates in another small car park. It is recommended that the 4WD tracks remain open as Pedestrian access track to the beach Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

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they seem fairly well managed and there isnâ€&#x;t much evidence of duplicate tracks or diversions off the main tracks (which are the major management issues). Eighteen Mile Beach consists of a limestone reef along the shoreline and, as such, is popular for fishing.

The recommended actions for Eighteen Mile Beach are shown on Figure 7.3q.

Actions The recommended actions are depicted in Figure .

Pedestrian access track to the beach

Two Mile Beach S3-1.

Erect signage at each car park at Two Mile Beach which is consistent with coastal signage used at other coastal locations which provide information on allowed and restricted uses, dog exercise areas, safety and emergency information and directional information.

S3-2.

Close eroding pathways and side tracks and rehabilitate using brushing and revegetation.

S3-3.

Remove unstable and falling tyres along the pathway to the west of car park two.

S3-4.

Construct timber steps at the end of the pedestrian path leading west from car park two to provide access over the steep dunes.

S3-5.

Retain the pedestrian track linking the two car parking areas and construct a viewing platform along its length and formalise the pathway from car park 1.

S3-6.

Maintain toilet facilities, picnic benches and BBQs as appropriate.

S3-7.

Replace no camping and no fires signage. Include directional information to the nearest camping areas.

Lookout One S3-8.

Erect directional signage stating that this car park is a lookout.

S3-9.

Erect safety signage along the road to make drivers aware of cars turning in and out of the car park and driving over the hill.

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

Page 85

FINAL

Lookout Two S3-10.

Separate pedestrian and vehicles access by establishing a new pedestrian track leading from the car park to the beach. The new track should try to follow currently disturbed or degraded areas as much as possible.

S3-11.

Formalise the vehicle access track leading to the beach.

S3-12.

Close and rehabilitate (brush and revegetate) duplicate vehicle access tracks.

S3-13.

Erect directional signage along Southern Ocean Road to advise drivers of the lookout.

S3-14.

Erect signage at the car park which is which is consistent with coastal signage used at other coastal locations which provide information on allowed and restricted uses, safety and emergency information and directional information. It should indicate the walking distance to the beach and advise pedestrian not to use the vehicle access track.

Lookout Three S3-15.

Close vehicle access at Southern Ocean Road and from the car park using fencing, signage and revegetation.

S3-16.

Revert the vehicle access to pedestrian access only.

S3-17.

Close and rehabilitate (brush and revegetate) the side tracks leading from the pedestrian path.

S3-18.

Erect directional signage along Southern Ocean Road to advise drivers of the lookout

S3-19.

Erect signage at the car park which is which is consistent with coastal signage used at other coastal locations which provide information on allowed and restricted uses, safety and emergency information and directional information. It should indicate the walking distance to the beach and distance to the closest vehicle access point to the beach (Lookout Two).

Lookout Four S3-20.

Erect directional signage along Southern Ocean Road to advise drivers of the lookout

S3-21.

Erect interpretative signage in the car park (making sure it is non-obtrusive) which contains information on the cultural and environmental values of the location.

S3-22.

Close and rehabilitate any evidence of vehicle access tracks as soon as they form.

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

Page 86

FINAL

Five Mile Beach S3-23.

Maintain the car park and pedestrian path as appropriate, including replacing damaged bollards and fencing.

S3-24.

Close access to existing side tracks through fencing, brushing and revegetating disturbed areas.

S3-25.

Continue to prohibit vehicle access to the beach from this site.

S3-26.

Erect signage at the car park which is which is consistent with coastal signage used at other coastal locations which provide information on allowed and restricted uses, safety and emergency information and directional information. It should indicate the walking distance to the beach, that no vehicle access is permitted and to that no camping or lighting of fires is permitted.

Six Mile Beach S3-27.

Maintain the car park and pedestrian path as appropriate, including replacing damaged bollards and fencing.

S3-28.

Remove the fallen tyres at the end of the pedestrian pathway and revert to a sand track or consider implementing a wooden staircase.

S3-29.

Continue to prohibit vehicle access to the beach from this site.

S3-30.

Expand the gravel car park to the south in the area which is currently the start of the pedestrian pathway as the vegetation is already disturbed in this location.

S3-31.

Erect directional signage along Southern Ocean Road to advise drivers of the car park.

S3-32.

Erect signage at the car park which is which is consistent with coastal signage used at other coastal locations which provide information on allowed and restricted uses, safety and emergency information and directional information. It should indicate the walking distance to the beach, that no vehicle access is permitted and to that no camping or lighting of fires is permitted.

Seven Mile Beach S3-33.

Continue with urgent dune brushing and rehabilitation of the dune blowouts at Seven Mile Beach.

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

Page 87

FINAL

Castle Rock Beach S3-34.

Manage the site as a low-key ATRR vehicle site only with limited facilities and notification from the main road.

S3-35.

Discourage illegal camping through regular ranger patrol and signage.

S3-36.

Erect signage at the start of the access track from Southern Ocean Road which states that Castle Rock Beach is accessible by ATRR or 4WD vehicles only and recommends that tyres are deflated. Signage should also indicate that no camping is permitted.

S3-37.

Close the side track which currently extends east of the main access track. Erect fencing to discourage access and carry out dune brushing and rehabilitation.

S3-38.

Monitor the amount of visitation to the area and consider formalising and expanding the car park and formalising the pedestrian access to the beach if visitor numbers increase.

Eleven Mile Beach S3-39.

Keep vehicle access closed at this location.

S3-40.

Rehabilitate the existing vehicle access tracks through dune brushing and revegetation to discourage its continued use and to help prevent the formation of dune blowouts.

Twelve Mile Beach A S3-41.

Rename Twelve Mile Beach A as „Eleven Mile Beachâ€&#x; to help reduce confusion with Twelve Mile Beach B.

S3-42.

Maintain the car park, toilets and pedestrian path as appropriate, including replacing damaged bollards and fencing.

S3-43.

Close and rehabilitate (brush and revegetate) duplicate pedestrian access tracks over the foredune.

S3-44.

Continue to prohibit vehicle access to the beach from this site.

S3-45.

Erect directional signage on Southern Ocean Road to advise drivers of the location of the car park and that toilet amenities are available.

S3-46.

Erect signage at the car park which is which is consistent with coastal signage used at other coastal locations which provide information on allowed and restricted uses, safety and emergency information and directional information. It should indicate the walking distance to the beach and that no vehicle access is permitted and the distance to the closest vehicle access point to the beach (Twelve Mile Beach B).

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

Page 88

FINAL

Twelve Mile Beach B S3-47.

Rename Twelve Mile Beach B as „Twelve Mile Beachâ€&#x; to help reduce confusion with Twelve Mile Beach A.

S3-48.

Prohibit camping in the informal camping area which exists behind the car park.

S3-49.

Revert the informal camping area into a low-key day use picnic area. Erect picnic benches and a BBQ and erect signs to advise that no camping or lighting of fires is permitted.

S3-50.

Expand the car park to the west to cater for increased visitor use.

S3-51.

Close and rehabilitate (brush and revegetate) side tracks leading from the main pedestrian track and vehicle access track.

S3-52.

Remove the existing lookout which is situated on the top of the foredune as sand erosion is causing the base of the lookout to move and become unstable and this will continue to occur.

S3-53.

Maintain the car park, picnic area, pedestrian path and vehicle access track as appropriate, including replacing damaged infrastructure and maintaining for safety purposes.

S3-54.

Erect directional signage on Southern Ocean Road to advise drivers of the location of the car park.

S3-55.

Retain the existing vehicle access track located to the east of the car park.

S3-56.

Erect signage at the entrance to the vehicle access track from Southern Ocean Road which states that the track is accessible by ATRR or 4WD vehicles only and recommends that tyres are deflated. Signage should also indicate that no camping is permitted along the track.

S3-57.

Erect signage at the car park which is which is consistent with coastal signage used at other coastal locations which provide information on allowed and restricted uses, safety and emergency information and directional information. It should indicate the walking distance to the beach, that vehicle access is permitted from the track to the east and that no camping or lighting of fires is permitted.

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

Page 89

FINAL

Thirteen Mile Beach S3-58.

Close the vehicle access to this location.

S3-59.

Close and rehabilitate (brush and revegetate) pedestrian access to the beach.

S3-60.

Erect signage at the closed track at Southern Ocean Drive to advise drivers that the site has been closed due to unstable limestone formations at the beach which has caused dangerous pedestrian access.

S3-61.

Erect signage at the existing car park to advise pedestrians that access has been closed due to the danger associated with the unstable limestone cliffs at the beach.

Fourteen Mile Beach S3-62.

Manage the site as a low-key ATRR vehicle site only with limited facilities and notification from the main road.

S3-63.

Discourage illegal camping through regular ranger patrol and signage.

S3-64.

Erect signage at the start of the access track from Southern Ocean Road which states that Fourteen Mile Beach is accessible by ATRR or 4WD vehicles only and recommends that tyres are deflated. Signage should also indicate that no camping or lighting of fires is permitted.

S3-65.

Erect fencing along the eastern side of the pedestrian pathway to close access to the dune blowout and rehabilitate through dune brushing and revegetation.

Mullet Bay S3-66.

Manage the site as a low-key ATRR vehicle site only with limited facilities and notification from the main road.

S3-67.

Discourage illegal camping through regular ranger patrol and signage.

S3-68.

Erect signage at the start of the access track from Southern Ocean Road which states that Mullet Bay is accessible by ATRR or 4WD vehicles only and recommends that tyres are deflated. Signage should also indicate that no camping or lighting of fires is permitted.

S3-69.

Close the side track which currently extends east of the main access track and side tracks at the end of the access path near the beach. Erect fencing to discourage access and carry out dune brushing and rehabilitation.

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

Page 90

FINAL

S3-70.

Monitor the amount of visitation to the area and consider formalising and expanding the car park and formalising the pedestrian access to the beach as visitor numbers increase.

East Mullet Bay S3-71.

Manage the site as a low-key ATRR vehicle site only with limited facilities and notification from the main road.

S3-72.

Discourage illegal camping through regular ranger patrol and signage.

S3-73.

Erect signage at the start of the access track from Southern Ocean Road which states that East Mullet Bay is accessible by ATRR or 4WD vehicles only and recommends that tyres are deflated. Signage should also indicate that no camping or lighting of fires is permitted.

S3-74.

Close the side track which currently extends west of the main access track and side tracks at the end of the access path near the beach. Erect fencing to discourage access and carry out dune brushing and rehabilitation.

S3-75.

Close the duplicate access tracks from Southern Ocean Road by erecting fencing and rehabilitating with dune brushing and revegetation.

Eighteen Mile Beach S3-76.

Manage the site as a low-key ATRR vehicle site only with limited facilities and notification from the main road.

S3-77.

Discourage illegal camping through regular ranger patrol and signage.

S3-78.

Erect signage at the start of both access tracks from Southern Ocean Road which states that Eighteen Mile Beach is accessible by ATRR or 4WD vehicles only and recommends that tyres are deflated. Signage should also indicate that no camping or lighting of fires is permitted.

S3-79.

Close the track which currently extends between the main access tracks and smaller side tracks and duplicate tracks. Erect fencing to discourage access and carry out dune brushing and rehabilitation where required.

S3-80.

Close the middle access track from Southern Ocean Road with fencing and encourage drivers to use one of the other two access tracks.

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

Page 91

FINAL

R 28280 Car park 1

Car park 2

Picnic benches and BBQ's

Toilets

S3-2

S3-6

A I

Picnic benches and BBQ's

S3-1

S3-7

A I S3-2

S3-5

Vehicles prohibited

S3-2

Picnic benches and BBQ's

S3-2 S3-2 Tyres falling away sand eroding

S3-2 S3-3 S3-4

S3-2

Legend Cadastre Formal pedestrian access path

Vehicles prohibited

Close informal track and rehabiliate

A I

Vehicles prohibited

Car Park Dogs prohibited

Actions

UNIT 1/1 ALVAN STREET, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6929 PHONE: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMAIL: admin@landinsights.com.au

Date: 4/10/2011

F

0

20

S3-1

Erect signage with general information notice

S3-2

Close eroding paths/side tracks and revegetate

S3-3

Remove tyres

S3-4

Construct timber steps over dune

S3-5

Retain pedestrian track and construct viewing platform

S3-6

Maintain toilets, picnic facilities and BBQ's

S3-7

Replace "no camping" and "no fire" signage

1:2,500 40

60

Metres

Plan: 7-3a Two Mile Beach.mxd

COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 80

100

Figure 7.3a

Two Mile Beach Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

R 28438

S3-8

A I Sou

the

oa an R e c rn O

S3-9

d

Peak of the hill

R 40157

S3-8

S3-9

Legend

Cadastre

Shire managed Reserves

A I

UN IT 1/1 A LVAN STREET, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6929 PHON E: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMAIL: adm in@ landinsights.com.au

Date: 11/03/2011

F

0

20

1:2,000 40

Metres

Plan: 7-3b Lookout One.mxd

Car Park

Actions

S3-8

Erect directional signage stating this is a lookout

S3-9

Erect safety signage along the road to be aware of cars turning and driving over the hill

COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 60

80

Figure 7.3b

Lookout One Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

S3-13

S3-13

SO

E U TH

RN

O

N CE A

RO

AD

S3-11

Close and rehabilitate duplicate track

A I

S3-14 Create new path

R 40157

S3-12

S3-10 Exisiting vehicle access to beach

Cadastre

Legend

Create new formal pedestrian access Close and rehabilitate access tracks

Existing vehicle access

Shire managed Reserves

A I

Car Park

Actions

S3-10 Seperate vehicle and pedestrian access tracks by creating a new pedestrian path to the beach S3-11 Formalise the vehicle access track S3-12 Close and rehabilitate duplicate tracks S3-13 Erect directional signage on the road

S3-14 Erect signage at car park. Direct pedestrians to new path

UN IT 1/1 A LVAN STREET, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6929 PHON E: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMAIL: adm in@ landinsights.com.au

Date: 8/03/2011

F

0

Plan: 7-3c Lookout Two.mxd

20

1:2,000 40

Metres

COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 60

80

Figure 7.3c

Lookout Two Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

S3-18

S3-18

O AD O C E AN R SO UTHERN Close access

Close access

Þ S3-15

Þ

A I

Revert to pedestrian only

S3-15

R 40157

S3-19

S3-17

S3-16

Dune blowouts

S3-17

Actions

Legend

S3-15 Close vehicle access to the beach from Southern Ocean Road and the car park S3-16 Revert vehicle access to pedestrian access only

Cadastre

Formal pedestrian access path

S3-17 Close and rehabilitate (brush and revegetate) side tracks

Close and rehabilitate access tracks

S3-18 Erect directional signage on the road

Shire managed Reserves

S3-19 Erect signage at the car park.

UN IT 1/1 A LVAN STREET, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6929 PHON E: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMAIL: adm in@ landinsights.com.au

Date: 8/03/2011

A I

F

0

Car Park

1:1,000

10

20

Metres

Plan: 7-3d Lookout Three.mxd

COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 30

40

Figure 7.3d

Lookout Three Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

S3-25 Close

Ăž

E A N RO A D SO UTHE RN O C

S3-23 R 40157

A S3-26 I

S3-23 Side tracks

S3-24

S3-24

Side tracks

Side tracks

Side tracks

Dune blowouts

S3-24 Limestone Cliffs

Actions

S3-23 Maintain the car park and pedestrian pathway

Cadastre

S3-24 Close access to existing side tracks

Formal pedestrian access path

S3-25 Continue to prohibit vehicle access at this location S3-26 Erect signage at the car park

UN IT 1/1 A LVAN STREET, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6929 PHON E: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMAIL: adm in@ landinsights.com.au

Date: 8/03/2011

Legend

A I

F

Close and rehabilitate access tracks Car Park

0

1:1,500

10

20

30

COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 40

Metres

Plan: 7-3e Five Mile Beach.mxd

Figure 7.3e

Five Mile Beach

Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

S3-20

Close access

Þ

Close access

Þ S3-22

Close access

S OU T

Þ

S3-22

HE RN O C EA N

R OAD S3-20

S3-21 S3-22

A I

R 40157

Cadastre

Legend

Close and rehabilitate access tracks

Shire managed Reserves

A I

Car Park

Actions

S3-20 Erect directional signage

S3-21 Erect interpretive signage at car park S3-22 Close and rehabilitate any evidence of vehicle access tracks

UN IT 1/1 A LVAN STREET, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6929 PHON E: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMAIL: adm in@ landinsights.com.au

Date: 11/03/2011

F

0

10

1:1,500 20

30

Metres

Plan: 7-3f Lookout Four.mxd

COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 40

Figure 7.3f

Lookout Four Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

S3-31

S3-31 SO UTHERN

OCEAN ROA D

S3-27

A I

S3-32 S3-30

R 40157

S3-29

S3-27

S3-28

Actions

Legend

S3-27 Maintain the car park and pedestrian path

Cadastre

Formal pedestrian access path Car park extension area

Date: 11/03/2011

S3-31 Erect directional signage along the road

Car Park

UN IT 1/1 A LVAN STREET, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6929 PHON E: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMAIL: adm in@ landinsights.com.au

S3-29 Continue to prohibit vehicle access to the beach S3-30 Expand gravel car park to the south

Shire managed Reserves

A I

S3-28 Remove fallen tyres

S3-32 Erect signage containing general information within the car park

F

0

1:1,000

10

20

Metres

Plan: 7-3g Six Mile Beach.mxd

COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 30

40

Figure 7.3g

Six Mile Beach Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

R 40156

SOU S3-33

T HE

RN

O CE

AN

RO A

S3-33

R 40157

D

S3-33 S3-33

Legend

Cadastre

Brushing and rehabilitate dune blowouts Shire managed Reserves Nature Reserve (DEC)

A I

Car Park

S3-1

F UN IT 1/1 A LVAN STREET, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6929 PHON E: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMAIL: adm in@ landinsights.com.au

Date: 11/03/2011

Actions

Continue with urgent dune brushing and rehabilitation of the dune blowouts

0

1:2,500

25

50

Metres

COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 75

100

Figure 7.3h

Seven Mile Beach (creeping dunes)

Plan: 7-3h Seven Mile Beach (Creeping Dunes).mxd

Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

R 40156

S3-36

S3-34

S3-35

R 40157

Informal parking area

S3-38

Informal parking area

S3-37

Pedestrian, motorbike and quad bike access only

'Castle like' limestone formation

Actions

Legend

S3-34 Manage as a low-key ATRR vehicle site

Cadastre

S3-35 Discourage illegal camping

Formal pedestrian access path

S3-36 Erect signage at the commencement of the track

Vehicular access

S3-37 Close the side track with fencing, dune brushing and revegetation

S3-38 Close the side track with fencing, dune brushing and revegetation

UN IT 1/1 A LVAN STREET, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6929 PHON E: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMAIL: adm in@ landinsights.com.au

Date: 8/03/2011

Close and rehabilitate access tracks Shire managed Reserves

A I

F

Car Park

0

1:2,500

25

50

COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 75

100

Figure 7.3i

Metres

Castle Rock Beach

Plan: 7-3i Castle Rock Beach.mxd

Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

SO

U

TH

ER

N

O

C

EA

N

R

O

R 40156

AD

Ăž S3-40

Close access S3-39

S3-45

R 40157

S3-40 S3-40

Actions

S3-39 Keep vehicle access closed

Cadastre

S3-40 Rehabilitate existing vehicle access tracks with dune brushing and revegetation

Close and rehabilitate access tracks

Shire managed Reserves

S3-45 Erect directional signage

UN IT 1/1 A LVAN STREET, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6929 PHON E: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMAIL: adm in@ landinsights.com.au

Date: 11/03/2011

Legend

F

0

1:2,000

20

Plan: 7-3j 11 Mile Beach.mxd

40

Metres

COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 60

80

Figure 7.3j

11 Mile Beach A

Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

S3-45

SO U

TH

R 40156

ER

N

OC EA N

RO

AD S3-45

Toilets

S3-42

A I

S3-46

S3-44 R 40157

S3-43

Actions

S3-41 Rename Twelve Mile Beach A as 'Eleven Mile Beach' S3-42 Maintain car park, toilets and pedestrian path

S3-43 Close and rehabilitate duplicate tracks

Cadastre

S3-44 Continue to prohibit vehicle access at this site

Formal pedestrian access path

S3-45 Erect directional signage on the road

Close and rehabilitate access tracks

S3-46 Erect signage at the car park

Shire managed Reserves

UN IT 1/1 A LVAN STREET, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6929 PHON E: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMAIL: adm in@ landinsights.com.au

Date: 11/03/2011

Legend

F

0

10

1:1,500 20

Metres

Plan: 7-3k 12 Mile Beach.mxd

30

COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 40

Figure 7.3k

12 Mile Beach A Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

Cadastre

Legend

Actions

S3-47 Rename 'Twelve Mile Beach'

Formal pedestrian access path

S3-48 Prohibit camping

Vehicle access

Close and rehabilitate access tracks

Car park extension area

S3-51 Close and rehabilitate side tracks

Shire managed Reserves

A I

S3-49 Revert informal camping area to a low-key day use picnic area and erect picnic furniture, signage and a BBQ S3-50 Expand car park (exact location to be determined) S3-52 Remove existing lookout

Car Park

S3-53 Maintain car park and picnic area, vehicle access and pedestrian path

Day use / low key picnic area

RS3-54 40156 Erect directional signage on the road S3-55 Retain existing vehicle access

S3-56 Erect signage to advise the track is for ATRR vehicles only S3-57 Erect signage at car park

S3-54

SO

UT

HE RN S3-47

A I S3-48

O CE

S3-53 S3-57

S3-56

S3-50

S3-49

S3-51

Existing lookout

AN

R OA

D

S3-54

S3-51

S3-55 S3-52

S3-51

R 40157

Existing vehicle access

S3-51

UN IT 1/1 A LVAN STREET, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6929 PHON E: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMAIL: adm in@ landinsights.com.au

Date: 11/03/2011

F

0

1:2,000

20

40

Metres

Plan: 7-3l 12 Mile Beach B.mxd

COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 60

80

Figure 7.3l

12 Mile Beach B Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

R 40156

SOUTHERN OCEAN ROAD

Close access

Ăž

Close access

S3-58

Ăž

S3-60

Existing informal parking area

S3-59 S3-61

R 40157

Existing pedestrian access requires climbing down limestone cliffs to access the beach

Old railway tracks used to transport to the old cannery

Unstable limestone cliffs

Actions

S3-58 Close vehicle access to the car park

S3-59 Close and rehabilitate pedestrian path

S3-60 Erect signage at the entrance to car park to advise drivers that access is closed due to unstable limestone cliffs

Cadastre

Close and rehabilitate access tracks

S3-61 Erect signage at car park to advise pedestrians that access is closed and dangerous

UN IT 1/1 A LVAN STREET, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6929 PHON E: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMAIL: adm in@ landinsights.com.au

Date: 11/03/2011

Legend

Shire managed Reserves

F

0

1:1,000

10

20

Metres

Plan: 7-3m 13 Mile Beach.mxd

COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 30

40

Figure 7.3m

13 Mile Beach

Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

R 40156

SO

AN N OC E U T H ER

S3-64

R O AD

S3-62

Informal camping areas

Informal camping areas

S3-63

Informal camping areas

R 40157

Informal parking area

Dune blowout

S3-65

Legend

Cadastre

Actions

Formal pedestrian access path

S3-62 Manage as a low-key ATRR vehicle site only

Existing vehicle access

S3-63 Discourage illegal camping

Proposed fencing

S3-64 Erect signage to advise drivers that access is only available to ATRR vehicles only

Shire managed Reserves

S3-65 Erect fencing to close access to the dune blowout and rehabilitate

UN IT 1/1 A LVAN STREET, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6929 PHON E: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMAIL: adm in@ landinsights.com.au

Date: 11/03/2011

F

0

Nature Reserve

1:2,000

20

40

Metres

Plan: 7-3n 14 Mile Beach.mxd

COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 60

80

Figure 7.3n

14 Mile Beach Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

R 40156

SO U T H E R

N O CEAN ROAD

S3-66

Informal parking and camping areas

S3-67 S3-70

Ăž

Close Access

S3-69 Informal parking and camping areas

Dune blowouts

R 40157

Dune blowouts Dune blowouts

Cadastre

Legend

Dune blowouts

Vehicle access

Close and rehabilitate access tracks

Shire managed Reserves

Actions

S3-66 Manage as a low-key ATRR vehicle site S3-67 Discourage illegal parking

S3-68 Erect signage at entrance to advise the track is accessible

by ATRR vehicles only and to deflate tyres S3-69 Close and rehabilitate side tracks S3-70 Monitor visitor numbers and consider formalising a car park area if numbers increase

UN IT 1/1 A LVAN STREET, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6929 PHON E: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMAIL: adm in@ landinsights.com.au

Date: 8/03/2011

F

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1:2,500

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50

Metres

Plan: 7-3o Mullet Bay.mxd

COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 75

100

Figure 7.3o

Mullet Bay

Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

R 40156

D SOUTHERN O C E AN ROA

Close

Þaccess

S3-73

S3-75

Close

Þ access S3-75

Track to be closed and rehabilitated Informal parking area

R 40157

S3-72

Þ

Close

S3-74

Informal parking area Pedestrian access only (steep)

Actions

Legend

S3-71 Manage as a low-key ATRR vehicle site

Cadastre

S3-72 Discourage illegal camping

Formal pedestrian access

S3-73 Erect signage at entrance to advise the track is accessible

by ATRR vehicles only and to deflate tyres S3-74 Close and rehabilitate side track

Vehicle access

Close and rehabilitate access tracks Shire managed Reserves

S3-75 Close and rehabilitate duplicate tracks

UN IT 1/1 A LVAN STREET, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6929 PHON E: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMAIL: adm in@ landinsights.com.au

Date: 8/03/2011

F

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1:3,500 60

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Plan: 7-3p East Mullet Bay.mxd

COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 120

Figure 7.3p

East Mullet Bay Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

Legend

Cadastre Formal pedestrian access Vehicle access Close and rehabilitate access tracks Shire managed Reserves R 40156

S3-78

Þ

Close access

SOU T

H ER N

OCEAN

ROAD

Informal parking

Close access

Þ

S3-80

S3-78

Þ

S3-79

R 40157

S3-76 S3-77

S3-79 Informal parking

Þ

Close access

S3-79 Actions

S3-76 Manage as a low-key ATRR vehicle access site S3-77 Discourage illegal camping S3-78 Erect signage at acces tracks to advise drivers that it is accessible

by ATRR vehicles and to deflate tyres S3-79 Close the track extending between the two main access tracks S3-80 Close the middle access track from the Southern Ocean Road

UN IT 1/1 A LVAN STREET, MT LAW LEY, WA , 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAW LEY, WA , 6929 PHONE: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMA IL: a dmin@la ndinsights.com.au

Date: 8/03/2011

F

0

1:5,000 70

COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 140

210

280

Metres Plan: 7-3q 18 Mile Beach.mxd

Figure 7.3q

18 Mile Beach SHIRE

Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

7.5

Sector 4 – Mason Point, Mason Bay, Starvation Boat Harbour and Oldfield Inlet

Mason Point Description Mason Point comprises a series of small rocky headlands which are popular fishing and lookout spots. The main campsite (Mason Bay) is located in a wide sandy bay to the east of the main headland which is commonly known as Mason Point. Mason Bay is described further below.

The roads to Mason Bay and Mason Point are gravel and can therefore be accessed by both 4WD and 2WDs. Sand tracks extend from the main gravel roads which lead to fishing spots and gravel headlands. The sand tracks can only be accessed by ATRR vehicles.

View of the gravel car park and entrance to the pedestrian access path

The main lookout area at Mason Point is located to the west of Mason Bay and can be accessed via gravel roads. It consists of two small gravel car parks which are located a short distance apart at the top of the headland. Bollards have recently been placed around the perimeter of the car parks to help prevent vehicle encroachment onto native vegetation. Pedestrian access to the beach is available at these car parks.

Informal vehicle access tracks to the rocks exist at both of the car parks. These tracks are most likely used to access fishing spots along the headland. However, there are risks associated with driving along rocky areas so it is recommended that the Shire erect signage at the entrance to the vehicle access tracks to warn drivers of the dangers.

Informal vehicle access tracks to the rocks

A pump station was established at Mason Point by the Ravensthorpe Nickel Operation which pumps sea water to the mine site.

Mason Point car parks and lookout areas are fairly wellmanaged. It is recommended that the car parks are managed and maintained with a focus on the following: Ensure that encroachment into the surrounding vegetation does not occur Replace bollards around the car park and pathway if broken

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

Entrance to the pedestrian access path

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FINAL

Maintain formal pedestrian access to help prevent the creation of informal tracks Revegetate and brush dunes of erosion is evident.

The recommended actions for Mason Point are shown on Figure 7.4b.

View of the rocky headland and beach areas at Mason’s Point

Mason Bay

Description The previous CMP anticipated that the camping area at Mason Bay would come under increasing pressure as it is the closest beach to the mine site. Due to the re-opening of the mine site, it is expected that the area will experience an increase in use which was anticipated in the 2001 CMP. It is also expected that some increase in use will occur from increased tourism and visitor numbers in the Shire. Continued prohibition of informal camping at other coastal sites and encouragement at Mason Bay might also lead to an increase in use at this site.

Mason Bay is a popular camping site and is also used for fishing, swimming, boat launching and general beach activities. Previous to the 2001 CMP, camping used to occur in a very ad-hoc fashion and was not contained in a certain area.

Camping would occur close to the beach, on the foredunes under the Melaleuca trees which, over time, results in removal of vegetation, dune

erosion and general environmental degradation.

A defined camping area has since been established behind the foredunes and is integrated with the car parking area. Bollards have recently been placed around the perimeter of the car parks to help prevent vehicle encroachment onto native vegetation. Signage has also been erected around the campsite to advise visitors of the restricted uses, permitted activities and safety and emergency information.

View of the beach, looking west

Issues associated with Mason Bay include: Vehicle access – Driving along the beach is a popular pastime for some beach users, however it is also disliked by others and is can be a conflict of use in higher-use locations where the beach is used for a variety of recreational activities. Vehicles on the beach

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

Vehicle access track to the beach

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FINAL

can be a safety risk in locations which are popular for walking and swimming. A 30 metre boat launching area is currently located at the vehicle access and vehicles excluded to the east and west. However, it is supposed that the exclusion areas would be difficult to identify for drivers on the beach coming come other directions. It also leaves a very small area for boat launching. It is therefore recommended that a vehicle exclusion area is changed to the beach foreshore between the two vehicle access points which can be used as a safe swimming area and vehicle access permitted on either side of the access points.

Overcrowding – the increasing popularity of the location for camping means that there is sometimes a high number of people using the site and this can sometimes lead to overflow camping in the dunes Environmental degradation – camping in the foredunes can lead to considerable environmental damage. The dunes below the limestone ridge are extremely fragile and the removal and destruction of the Melaleuca trees can lead to severe dune erosion. Sometimes vegetation is removed by campers on purpose to create space, provide fuel for fires etc. This vegetation helps to hold the soil together and therefore its removal can lead to erosion.

Camp fires – it is not uncommon for camp fires to be lit at this site during the prohibited burning season. This is a risk to human safety and can lead to severe environmental damage if a wild fire occurs. Regular monitoring by the Shire rangers should occur.

Management presence – there is a lack of A camping space located at Mason’s Bay management of this site and it is not currently looked after by a caretaker. This leads to prohibited activities (such as removing vegetation and camp fires during the prohibited burning period) and some campers stay for months at a time. It is recommended that the Shire ensures that the ranger can visit this area more often or appoint a caretaker during peak seasons.

Camping fees – fees have recently been implemented (as recommended in the 2001 CMP) which helps to cover the management costs of the Shire. These charges may need to be reviewed to take into account increased use and higher management costs and the need to regularly patrol the area or employ a caretaker.

Ease of access – Southern Ocean Road provides convenient access to most coastal locations across the Shire and Mason Bay is Pedestrian access track to the beach easily accessible by 4WD and 2WD vehicles.

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

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This ease of access means that the site can be used by a larger number of people than in previous decades, which places increased pressure on facilities and the environment.

Drinking water – there is no drinking water available at Mason Bay and it is unlikely that water will be found due to the underlying limestone in the area. Water is not required if the area is to remain low-key camping and recreation.

Quality of Facilities – A new composting toilet has recently been constructed at the site (as recommended in the 2001 CMP), however more might be needed to provide for the growing number of campers.

Feral animals – feral animals such as cats are known to exist in the area and are encouraged to visit the camp site as people feed them or leave food around. Appropriate signage should be erected to advise campers that this activity is not encouraged. The ranger or caretaker should also assist in discouraging this. Campers should also be educated about the impacts of feeding and encouraging feral cats in the area.

The recommended actions for Mason Bay are shown on Figure 7.4c.

Starvation Boat Harbour Description Starvation Boat Harbour is located in the locality of Jerdacuttup at the eastern extent of the Shire. The bay is sheltered by a rocky headland located to the east which provides some protection from the strong winds from the Southern Ocean. This site is popular for camping, swimming, boating, general beach activities and commercial and recreational fishing.

View of Starvation Boat Harbour beach area

Starvation Boat Harbour was first used by professional fishermen who gained access via a coastal track which extended from Hopetoun. The construction of Fence Road made the site more accessible by landowners located inland. The advent of the 4WD also increased visitation to the area and additional tracks, uncontrolled access and dune erosion started to occur. A fisherman‟s camping area is located a few hundred meters along the coast to the north of the caravan area. It is equipped with a toilet and sheltered camping facility.

Caravan area at Starvation Boat Harbour Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

A gravel road was constructed in 1973 which linked Starvation Boat Harbour to Springdale Road which made the site accessible to a larger proportion of the general public. Upgrades to Southern Ocean Road over the last 10 years have provided easy and efficient access from other coastal sites and from Hopetoun. Mason Bay is now 8 kilometers away from Starvation Boat Harbour compared to 24 kilometers of gravel roads which used to be the only access route.

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The Jerdacuttup community provides invaluable assistance to the Shire with management of this location and there is a strong sense of community ownership.

As was recommended in the 2001 CMP, the limestone parking area was closed to vehicle access and turned into a day-use area. Additional BBQs were provided, as well as a large shade structure. New toilets and changerooms were built near the day-use area and toilets provided on the road to North Powell Point. The camping and caravan area was upgraded, as well as the camping area known as „Tent City‟ located along the foredunes to the east of the Starvation Boat Harbour main beach area.

It is understood that in the past the local community have attempted to construct a boat ramp in the bay to provide a location for boat launching. The make-shift boat ramp was eventually swept away and was probably not reviewed by an engineer before constructed. It is considered prudent that the Shire investigate further the possibility of constructing a boat ramp at this location. This will require consultation with the community in order to determine the demand and the most appropriate location.

An engineer will also be required to oversee the location and construction of the boat ramp.

The Rabbit Proof Fence is a piece of iconic and historical infrastructure and is located a few kilometers to the north of the caravan park. The fence is not necessarily considered a coastal management issue and the plan therefore does not recommend any actions that specifically address this structure.

However, the Shire should note that issues have been raised by the community with regards to the fence and appropriate management might be necessary.

Issues associated with Starvation Boat Harbour include: Pedestrian access paths – some of the pedestrian access tracks have fallen tyres leading down the dunes to the beach which is a safety hazard. Some are severely eroded and steep. Considering the relatively high use of the site, the formal paths should be upgraded by removing the fallen and broken tyres and replacing access across the sand with timber steps.

Boat launching – In recent years the local community attempted to construct a boat ramp which was eventually destroyed. It is recommended that the Shire investigate the demand and possibility of constructing a boat ramp further.

Camp overcrowding – the increasing popularity of the location for camping means that there is sometimes a high number of people using the site and this can sometimes lead to overflow camping in the dunes or the headlands

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

Fallen tyres at a pedestrian access path

View of the area known as ‘Tent City’

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Camping fees – fees have recently been implemented (as recommended in the 2001 CMP) which helps to cover the management costs of the Shire. These charges may need to be reviewed to take into account increased use and higher management costs and the need to regularly patrol the area or employ a caretaker.

Management presence – The site is well-managed by the community, however as they cannot be expected to always be present at the site, this can lead to prohibited activities (such as removing vegetation and camp fires during the prohibited burning period). It is recommended that the Shire ensures that the ranger can visit this area more often or appoint a caretaker to permanently live at the site during peak seasons.

Environmental degradation – Sometimes vegetation is removed by campers on purpose to create space, provide fuel for fires etc. This vegetation helps to hold the soil together and therefore its removal can lead to erosion.

Camping in the foredunes can also lead to considerable environmental damage.

Quality of facilities – new toilets amenities, BBQs and shade areas have been established in recent years (as was recommended in the 2001 CMP).

The camping areas have also been formalised and ‘Tent City’ has been improved with areas to camp and pedestrian tracks marked out to help reduce further vegetation disturbance.

Drinking water – there is no drinking water Condition of one of the pedestrian access paths at provided and it is not likely that quality drinking ‘Tent City’ water will be found due to the underlying limestone. Water is not required if the area is to remain low-key recreation or camping.

Fire regulations – there are presently numerous open fires lit in the camp ground during the prohibited burning season. This poses a huge risk to human life, existing infrastructure and the surrounding nature reserve and farmland.

Long term campers – a number of long-term campers have been known to use Starvation Boat Harbour as a base due to the previously free camping and available facilities. This form of squatting needs to be managed to allow others to utilise the area.

Weeds - Bridal Creeper (Asparagus asparagoides) exists at the campsite and urgently needs containing if the surrounding vegetation is to remain weed-free. Release of the Bridal Creeper Leafhopper or Rust could assist in controlling the noxious weed.

Threatened flora – an endangered plant called Eucalyptus preissiana ssp. lobata is known to exist at Starvation Boat Harbour and is classed as Priority 2. A survey for the plant would need to be undertaken if additional site works were proposed.

Feral animals – cats and rabbits are a problem on the reserve as food is often left around that the cats can eat (e.g. fish scraps) and the rabbits are not baited due to presence of dogs.

The recommended actions for Starvation Boat Harbour are shown on Figure 7.4d.

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

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North Powell Point Description North Powell Point is located directly to the east of Starvation Boat Harbour. A small limestone car park is located at the top of a rocky headland. Another headland (Powell Point) is located a short distance to the south. This location consists of pedestrian access paths to the rocks, toilets (located a short distance up the road) and small cleared areas used for informal camping.

View of the rocks and ocean at North Powell Point

This site experiences strong winds which can result in severe dune erosion, especially if existing vegetation is disturbed by human foot traffic. Therefore, it is recommended that a formal pedestrian access path is established and that all other tracks are closed and brushed to reduce use and erosion. The formal path should also be signposted to make visitors aware of which path to use so that informal tracks are not used or created. No vehicle access is provided at this location.

It is recommended that signage should be erected in the car park to inform visitors of the dangers associated with the rocky headland area.

Informal pedestrian access track at North Powell Point Informal camping occasionally occurs at this location, however considering a formal camping area (‘Tent City’) and the Starvation Boat Harbour camping and caravan area is located a few hundred metres to the west it is not considered necessary for any camping to occur at this site. The area should be patrolled by rangers and other caretakers of the camping grounds to ensure that camping does not take place at this location.

Pedestrian access track which needs to be formalised and others closed

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

The recommended actions for North Powell Point are shown on Figure 7.4e.

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Powell Point Description Powell Point is located at the rocky headland to the south of North Powell Point. It is accessed via a gravel road which links to Starvation Boat Harbour. This location consists of a limestone car park situated at the top of the headland, numerous pedestrian tracks to the beach and a small lookout a viewing platform at one side.

View of the pedestrian access path looking at the car park.

This path needs to be formalised and others closed.

The winds are extremely strong at this location and have resulted in the creation of very high, steep dunes which are severely prone to erosion. Human disturbance of vegetation through the creation of informal tracks can exacerbate this problem and lead to wind tunnels and dune blowouts. Every effort should be made to close informal and duplicate tracks and brush and rehabilitate to reduce dune erosion. Pedestrian access to the viewing platform and the beach should be provided via two separate tracks. These tracks should be formalised through fencing and signposting to help discourage the creation of informal tracks.

A few informal vehicle access tracks exist to the north and south of the car park. The tracks to the south do not seem to lead anywhere so it is recommended that they are closed in order to reduce further vegetation disturbance and more tracks for the Shire to manage. The tracks to the north lead to the rocks which are probably to access fishing spots. It is recommended that this track remains open.

View of the rocks and ocean at Powell Point Pedestrian and vehicle movement over the rocky headland is also somewhat risky and dangerous and it is recommended that the Shire erect signage at the car park and near the entrance to the tracks to inform visitors of the risks.

The recommended actions for Powell Point are shown on Figure 7.4f.

The formal pedestrian access path which leads to the viewing platform and lookout.

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

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Oldfield Inlet Description Oldfield Inlet is located at the easternmost extent of the Shire at the boundary with the Shire of Esperance. A Shire-managed reserve is located on the western side of Oldfield Inlet (R 32338). The reserve is approximately 220ha in size and is vested for the purpose of Recreation. The previous CMP referred to the Oldfield Inlet and Munglinup Beach as being located within this reserve. However, the site is actually located on the eastern side of the Shire boundary within the Shire of Esperance and therefore does not need to be discussed in this CMP. Reserve 32338 does not appear to be used by the community as has relatively low recreational value.

It is also located at the eastern extremity of the Shire and has high environmental value which needs to be managed accordingly. As a result of the above, it is recommended that the Shire investigate the possibility of vesting this reserve with other government organizations (such as the DEC) for the purpose of conservation (as was recommended in the previous CMP).

Actions The recommended actions are depicted in Figures 7.4a – 7.4f.

Mason Point S4-1.

Maintain the car park, vehicle access and pedestrian pathways as appropriate, including replacing damaged infrastructure, maintaining for safety purposes and controlling damage and erosion.

S4-2.

Discourage illegal camping through regular ranger patrol and signage and indicate the distance to the nearest formal camping area (Mason Bay).

S4-3.

Erect signage at the vehicle access track to warn drivers of the dangers associated with driving over rocky coastal areas.

Mason Bay S4-4.

Maintain the campsite, roads, vehicle access points, pedestrian pathways and toilets as appropriate, including the replacement of damaged infrastructure and maintenance for safety purposes.

S4-5.

Close informal tracks leading through the dune vegetation to the toilets with fencing, dune brushing and revegetation and provide a sign at the car park closest to the beach to advise visitors that the access tracks to the toilets are on either side of the central vegetated area.

S4-6.

Open the existing vehicle access track on the eastern side of the camping ground (remove the bollard which currently restricts access) and permit driving along the beach to the east.

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

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S4-7.

Amend the vehicle exclusion area at Mason Bay to include the beach foreshore which extends along the main beach in front of the camping ground between the two vehicle access points. Boat launching and vehicle access should be permitted along the beach on either side of the vehicle exclusion area.

S4-8.

Erect signage at the entrance to the vehicle access tracks to advise drivers of the vehicle exclusion zone and to advise which direction of the beach they are permitted to drive along.

S4-9.

Consider the appointment of a caretaker for Mason Bay during peak seasons.

S4-10.

Brush and revegetate dune erosion along the foredunes along the main beach area.

Starvation Boat Harbour S4-11.

Investigate the possibility of establishing a formal boat ramp at Starvation Boat Harbour.

The exact location will need to be determined based on engineering investigations and community consultation.

S4-12.

Open the area currently used as a „day use picnic areaâ€&#x; if the boat ramp is constructed in order to provide access for vehicles using the boat ramp and parking after boat launching.

S4-13.

Fix pedestrian access tracks to the beach from the Starvation Boat Harbour camping and day use area. Unstable tyres on the primary dunes should be removed and replaced with timber steps.

S4-14.

Resurface the road into the camp site and day use area.

S4-15.

Maintain the car park, camp site, day use areas, toilets and pedestrian access as appropriate.

North Powell Point S4-16.

Fence the formal pedestrian path which provides access from the car park to the rocky headland.

S4-17.

Erect safety signs at the start of formal pedestrian pathways to advise users to beware of walking over rocks.

S4-18.

Discourage camping within the dunes through increased ranger presence and signage.

S4-19.

Close informal pathways leading to the rocky headland with fencing at the entrance and dune brushing and rehabilitation.

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

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S4-20.

Erect signage at car park which is which is consistent with coastal signage used at other coastal locations which provide information on allowed and restricted uses, safety and emergency information and directional information. It should also indicate the walking distance and direction to the public toilets and the location of formal camping grounds at „tent cityâ€&#x;.

S4-21.

Maintain the car park and pedestrian path as appropriate, including replacing damaged bollards and fencing.

Powell Point S4-22.

Close vehicle access to the north-west of the car park.

S4-23.

Close informal tracks and carry out urgent rehabilitation (dune brushing and revegetation).

S4-24.

Formalise pedestrian pathways and discourage use of informal tracks through the use of signage and fencing.

S4-25.

Erect safety signs at the start of formal pedestrian pathways to advise users to beware of walking over rocks.

S4-26.

Erect signage at the car park which is which is consistent with coastal signage used at other coastal locations which provide information on allowed and restricted uses, safety and emergency information and directional information.

S4-27.

Carry out urgent rehabilitation on dune blowout.

S4-28.

Maintain the car park, pedestrian pathways and the lookout/viewing platform as appropriate, including replacing damaged bollards and fencing.

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

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AD RO R 40156

Þ S OU

RN

Þ

THE

Close access

Mason Bay Camping Ground

Þ

MASO

R 40157

Close access

N OCEA

N BA Y RO AD

Þ

Close

Fishing access tracks

Ravensthorpe Nickel Operation seawater pumping station

Mason Point Legend Cadastre Shire managed reserves Nature Reserve (DEC) Vehicle access

UNIT 1/1 ALVAN STREET, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6929 PHONE: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMAIL: admin@landinsights.com.au

Date: 4/10/2011

E

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COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 375

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Metres Plan: 7-4a Mason_combined.mxd

Figure 7.4a

MASON POINT & MASON BAY Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

R 40157

S4-3

Ravensthorpe Nickel Operation seawater pumping station

S4-3

S4-3

A I S4-1

S4-2

S4-1

A I

Actions

Legend Cadastre

S4-1

Maintain carparks, pedestrian and vehicle access as appropriate

S4-2

Discourage illegal camping

S4-3

Erect signage at vehicle tracks to warn drivers of the dangers driving over rocks

Shire managed Reserves

A I

Car Park Formal pedestrian access path Vehicular access

UNIT 1/1 ALVAN STREET, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6929 PHONE: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMAIL: admin@landinsights.com.au

Date: 4/10/2011

F

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50

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Plan: 7-4b Masons Point.mxd

COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 150

200

Figure 7.4b

Mason Point Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

Actions S4-4

Maintain campsite, toilets, pathways and vehicle access as appropriate

S4-5

Close informal tracks from the car park to the toilet

S4-6

Open vehicle access (remove bollards and erect signage)

S4-7

Amend the vehicle exclusion zone current stipulated in the Local Law

S4-8

Erect signage to advise drivers of the exclusion zone and the permitted direction to drive

S4-10

Revegetate and brush eroded areas of foredunes

S4-4

Toilets

S4-5 S4-8

R 40157

Dune brushing Vehicle access permitted

S4-6 S4-8

Dune brushing S4-10

S4-7

Vehicle exclusion zone

Vehicle access permitted

Legend Cadastre Formal pedestrian access Close and rehabilitate access tracks Vehicle access Vehicle exclusion zone Shire managed Reserves

UNIT 1/1 ALVAN STREET, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6929 PHONE: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMAIL: admin@landinsights.com.au

Date: 4/10/2011

F

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10

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Plan: 7-4c Masons Bay.mxd

COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 30

40

Figure 7.4c

Mason Bay

Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

Legend Cadastre Formal pedestrian access Vehicle access Shire managed Reserves

S4-11 Vehicles prohibited

Previous rock boat ramp

S4-13

S4-14

S4-13 Toilets

S4-15

Day use picnic area

S4-12 Shade structure and BBQ's "Tent City" camping area

Starvation Boat Harbour Caravan Park

Toilets

R 40097

Actions S4-11

North Powell Point

Investigate the possibility of establishing a formal boat ramp

S4-12

Open the area currently used as a "day use area' to provide access for vehicles using the boatramp

S4-13

Repair pedestrian access paths - remove tyres and replace with timber steps

S4-14

Resurface the road leading to the caravan and day use area

S4-15

Maintain the car park, pedestrian paths, toilets, day use area and camping ground as appropriate

UNIT 1/1 ALVAN STREET, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6929 PHONE: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMAIL: admin@landinsights.com.au

Date: 7/10/2011

Lime Hill

F

0

25

1:2,500 50

75

COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN Figure 7.4d

100

Metres Plan: 7-4d Starvation Boat Harbour.mxd

Starvation Boat Harbour SHIRE

Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

S4-15

"Tent City" camping ground Toilets

S4-20

S4-21 S4-17 S4-17 S4-19

A I S4-19 R 40097

Informal camping area

S4-16

S4-18

Actions S4-15

Stabilisation and revegetation in front of "Tent City"

S4-16

Fence the formal pedestrian pathway

Formal pedestrian access

S4-17

Erect safety signage at entrance to pathway to advise visitors of dangers on rocks

Close and rehabilitate access tracks

S4-18

Discourage informal camping

Stabilisation and rehabilitation

S4-19

Close informal pedestrian paths and rehabilitate

Shire managed Reserves

S4-20

Erect signage at car park

Car Park

S4-21

Maintain carpark and pathways as appropriate

Legend Cadastre

A I

UNIT 1/1 ALVAN STREET, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6929 PHONE: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMAIL: admin@landinsights.com.au

Date: 7/10/2011

F

0

1:2,000

20

40

COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 60

Metres

Plan: 7-4e North Powell Point.mxd

80

Figure 7.4e

North Powell Point

Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

Ăž Close

S4-22

S4-26

Ăž

A I

S4-23

S4-25

R 40097

S4-24

S4-28 Lookout and viewing platform

S4-23

S4-27

Actions S4-22

Legend

Close vehicle access

Cadastre

S4-23

Close informal tracks and carry out rehabiliation

Formal pedestrian access path

S4-24

Formalise pedestrian pathways

Vehicle access

S4-25

Erect safety signage regarding dangers of walking over rocks

S4-26

Erect signage at the car park

S4-27

Carry out urgent rehabilitation on the dune blowout

S4-28

Maintain carpark, pathways and lookout/viewing platform as appropriate

Close and rehabilitate access tracks Stabilisation and rehabilitation Shire managed Reserves

A I

Car Park

UNIT 1/1 ALVAN STREET, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6929 PHONE: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMAIL: admin@landinsights.com.au

Date: 7/10/2011

F

0

1:1,500

10

20

30

Metres

Plan: 7-4f Powell Point.mxd

COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 40

Figure 7.4f

Powell Point

Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe, Landgate and DEC.

8.1

Introduction

This section of the CMP provides an Action Plan for the ongoing management of the Shire‟s coastal reserves with a framework to ensure coastal management is adequately catered for in future budgets. It is anticipated that the recommendations will be implemented over the next 10 years.

The implementation of recommendations from the Action Plan will need to be appropriately costed and programmed for implementation by the Shire of Ravensthorpe. Several recommendations will require ongoing management.

8.2

Priorities

The recommended foreshore management actions have been allocated a priority to assist with implementation. Priorities have been classified as follows: I: Immediate term – within the next financial year M: Medium term – within the next five years L: Long term – 5+ years O: Ongoing – as required.

The priorities assigned to each recommendation are advisory only. Priorities can be reviewed as required by the Shire to take into account availability of resources and granting of funding requests.

8.3

Responsibilities

The Shire of Ravensthorpe is responsible for recommendations within this plan. In some instances another party may be able to „partner‟ the Shire when implementing recommendations. It is acknowledged that the Jerdacuttup community provide invaluable assistance to the Shire through the management of Starvation Boat Harbour; however they have not been given formal responsibilities in the tables below.

Responsibilities and partners have been classified as follows: Shire of Ravensthorpe Department of Environment and Conservation Main Roads Culham Inlet Management Group 8.4

SHIRE DEC MRWA CIMG

Monitoring

Monitoring is an essential component of the rehabilitation or maintenance program. Its purpose is to assess the success of management activities and to determine whether certain objectives or goals have been achieved. It can also indicate whether the Action Plan requires modification to help reach this goal more efficiently. Monitoring of recreational elements is important to ensure they are safe and undamaged.

Many factors can contribute to decreasing the success of restoration actions, such as the invasion of weeds and the disturbance of the area by humans. It also takes time for newly vegetated areas to become self-sustaining and better adapted to combat these disturbances. In this case, the ultimate goal

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of rehabilitation is to improve the condition of the coastal dunes by increasing vegetation cover, reducing the level of weed cover and stabilising dunes. Monitoring the species composition (i.e. diversity) and density of the vegetation on the site (native vegetation and weeds) will help indicate whether this goal has been reached.

It is recommended that monitoring is conducted once a year. This should involve inspections of the areas identified in this strategy as priority areas to determine whether the condition is improving, static or worsening. Relevant action such as replanting or weed eradication should be undertaken if monitoring results indicate no improvement or degradation.

Monitoring of recreational facilities can be conducted using visual assessments and safety inspections.

These should be carried out regularly, and issues attended to immediately if they arise.

8.5

Indicative Costs

Indicative costs have been provided to assist Council in finalising priorities and preparing works programs as required. Implementation costs will generally need to be met by Council, and may vary depending on, for example, whether works are carried out in-house or contracted externally, the design scope, materials used and the degree of public consultation required.

8.6

Funding Sources

In some instances, the Shire may be able to seek funding for certain activities from other sources.

Funding opportunities such as these tend to change on a regular basis and as a result a review of options should be undertaken each year.

Potential sources include: Coastwest/Coastcare – administered by the Department of Planning. Funding is available for projects that encourage coastal protection through research, education and protection works.

Community Conservation Grants – administered by TSN Coordinator, WWF Australia. Grants are provided for activities such as habitat restoration, weeding and feral animal control, monitoring and surveying species populations, fencing, and fire management.

Funding is also available from Federal and State NRM funding sources such as South Coast NRM.

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8.7

Summary Action Plan

A summary of the overarching strategies recommended in this document to deal with coastal management issues which affect all the Shire managed coastal reserves (Chapter 6) is provided in Table 8.1 below.

Table 8.2 – Summary of Strategies (I – Immediate, M – Medium, L - Long-term (+ 5 years), O – Ongoing) Issue Coastal Tenure

No. CT1 CT2

CT3

Coastal Processes

CP1

CP2

CP3 CP4 CP5 Environmental Management

EM1

EM2

EM3

EM4

Strategy Avoid segregation of the coastal reserves into smaller reserves, and merge reserves where appropriate.

Review the discrepancies between the boundary of coastal reserves and Unallocated Crown Land along the beach areas and amend as appropriate.

Review the discrepancies between the location of road reserves which exists where coastal car parking areas, pathways and recreation sites exist and amend as appropriate.

Prepare an Asset Management Plan focussing on existing infrastructure and recreational facilities in Shiremanaged reserves and consider how they can be protected from coastal process such as storm events.

Give due regard to SPP 2.6 to ensure that the location of coastal facilities and development takes into account coastal processes and that appropriate coastal setbacks are implemented and maintained. Consider the need for a Regional Coastal Inundation Risk Assessment, in collaboration with Shires across the South Coast (i.e.

South Coast Management Group).

Conduct regular monitoring of the beach and the dune systems.

Conduct regular monitoring of infrastructure and recreational facilities along the beach.

Prepare a coastal erosion and sea level rise management plan for Hopetoun main beach area.

Discourage pedestrian and vehicle access in dune areas by implementing management techniques relevant to the particular site, such as fencing or signage.

Monitor dunes located close to higher-use recreation locations for signs of disturbance and close and revegetate informal tracks as they occur.

Liaise and work with the DEC with regards to conservation of natural habitat and management of environmental impacts across Shire and DEC reserve boundaries, in particular for dogs, threatened wildlife and flora, and fire management.

Conduct regular maintenance (such as repairing fences and signs which protect vegetation, weed control, fencing new areas which are being disturbed etc.)

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

Priority

Responsibility

O

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

M

SHIRE

L

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

O

SHIRE DEC

O

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Issue

No. EM5

EM6

EM7

EM8

EM9 EM10 EM11 EM12 EM13 EM14 EM15

EM16 EM17

EM18

Access

A1

Strategy Prohibit vehicular use along certain beach areas to protect foreshore vegetation and shorebird nesting and feeding areas.

Conduct biodiversity surveys in coastal reserves, and compile a flora and fauna species list for each coastal reserve based on scientific surveys and studies and establish the environmental significance of each reserve.

Encourage long-term rehabilitation techniques such as constant weed control, access control and monitoring for disturbance.

Support the reformation of the Weeds Action Group and their efforts to identify and remove weeds from Shire coastal reserves.

Map high priority weed infestations in Shire coastal reserves.

Encourage Shire field officers to maintain weed identification and management skills.

Support education campaigns that identify weeds and explain why they are a threat to natural environments.

Conduct feral animal control.

Ensure appropriate management of stranded marine mammals.

Provide educational signage in beach areas where shorebird bird nesting (e.g. Hooded Plover) occurs.

Monitor and manage areas susceptible to the spread of dieback for signs of infection (such as dead banksia plants) and monitor sites known to be affected for signs of spread. Areas susceptible to dieback include areas containing susceptible species (such as Banksia sp.) and areas near access tracks and highly utilised areas.

Continue to provide support to the local bush fire action groups Liaise and work with the DEC and local bush fire action groups to carry out prescribed burning, hazard reduction techniques and emergency procedures.

Update or prepare a Fire Management Manual for the Shire and prepare fire management plans for all Shire of Denmark coastal reserves. Such plans should incorporate hazard reduction procedures and measures to protect natural values, community infrastructure and lives from fire.

Adopt a policy for the management of All-Terrain Road Registered Vehicles in coastal areas and Shire reserves which outlines conditions under which these vehicles can operate in these reserves. This policy should also identify those coastal areas and reserves where vehicle access is not acceptable.

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

Priority

Responsibility

O

SHIRE

M-L

SHIRE DEC

O

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

O

SHIRE SHIRE DEC

O I

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

I

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Issue

No. A2

A3

A4

A5

A6

A7 A8

A9

Facilities

F1

F2 F3

F4

F5 F6 F7

Strategy Consider supporting a driver education program for vehicle use on the Shire‟s beaches where access is permitted.

Employ the powers under the Control of Vehicles (OffRoad Area) Act 1978 to designate areas where vehicles are permitted, to manage the operation of ATRR vehicles and apply penalties.

Maintain formal pedestrian walkways throughout the Shire‟s coastal reserves and close informal tracks to discourage their use.

Give due regard to SPP 2.6 which provides for public access to foreshore areas and apply these when considering future options for the development of dual use pathways and recreational trails within the Shire‟s coastal reserves.

Review boat launching facilities every two years to manage beach access, safety and potential conflict between beach users.

Continue to monitor and regulate boat launching activities, especially during peak holiday periods.

Monitor access points, car parks and pathways for evidence of dune disturbance and the creation of informal tracks, and respond immediately with closure/brushing of informal tracks.

Ensure disabled access is considered when designing and implementing the actions recommended in this plan and that the Shire‟s Disability Access and Inclusion Plan is referred to.

Replace, install and/or maintain the amenities at all coastal locations (toilets, shelters, barbeques, picnic areas, seating, etc.) where necessary Consider adopting a consistent design style for all furniture established within coastal reserves.

Ensure appropriate signage is located at each coastal reserve including the name of the location, directional information, safety and emergency information, land use and restrictions, and interpretative information where appropriate), based on current standards.

Prepare a signage strategy which includes guidelines for interpretative signs (containing cultural, environmental and educational information).

Ensure signage is consistent and does not obstruct views.

Encourage coastal users to take their rubbish home with them for disposal.

Ensure all popular coastal sites are adequately serviced with rubbish bins, amenities etc.

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

Priority

Responsibility

M

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

M

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

O

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Issue

No. F8

F9

F9

Land Use Conflicts

LUC1

LUC3 Heritage

H1

H2

H3

H4

Community Involvement

CI1 CI2

CI3 CI4 CI5

CI6

Strategy Continue to enforce a no camping rule within all the Shire‟s coastal reserves unless it is carried out within designated camping and caravan areas with assistance of Shire rangers.

Ensure that illegal squatters and their dwellings are removed to avoid setting a precedence and future issues associated with this land use Ensure existing and new facilities within the Shire‟s coastal reserves are accessible by the disabled where possible.

Ensure enforcement of the boat launching area at Hopetoun Beach and the vehicle exclusion area from the boat launching area to West Beach and the beach directly adjoining Mason Bay camping area.

Monitor the effectiveness of the Dog Prohibited Areas and change if necessary...

Continue to liaise with local Indigenous representatives to ensure a culturally sensitive approach to recreational activities and the provision of visitor amenities in coastal reserves.

Consider the implementation of interpretative signage which describes the Indigenous heritage of the area (if requested by local traditional landowners).

Consult with Indigenous representatives during any future biodiversity surveys to develop a better understanding of the Noongar traditional values and uses of biodiversity of coastal reserves.

Encourage and provide support to the Department of Indigenous Affairs to conduct a cultural landscape study across the Shire‟s coastal reserves.

Support programs that actively engage the local community in managing the Shire‟s coastal reserves.

Provide opportunities for the community to be involved in rehabilitation, monitoring, flora and fauna surveys, facility and access management etc.

Provide support for existing community groups which focus on coastal management.

Assist and encourage the community with forming “Friends of Coastal Reserves” groups.

Undertake ongoing public education and engagement programs to encourage the conservation and care for coastal biodiversity and bird nesting sites e.g. Hooded Plover nesting sites.

Include coastal safety in any coastal education and awareness program developed for the Shire of Ravensthorpe.

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

Priority

Responsibility

O

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

M

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

O

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A summary of the recommended actions for each site (as presented in Chapter 7) is provided in Table 8.2 below. The recommended actions are also shown in Figures 7.1a – 7.4g.

Table 8.2 – Action Plan for the Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Reserves Site/Location Culham Inlet

No. S1-1

S1-2 S1-3

S1-4

Four Mile Beach

S1-5 S1-6 S1-7 S1-8

S1-9 S1-10 Whale Bay Estate Beach

S1-11

S1-12 S1-13

S1-14 S1-15

Recommendation Ensure the preparation of a detailed plan for the western end of the car park area and the western pedestrian access track to the beach is carried out by Main Roads WA in consultation with the Culham Inlet Management Group.

Maintain and manage the eastern pedestrian track at Culham Inlet as appropriate.

Replace signage at Culham Inlet which is consistent with signage at other coastal locations throughout the Shire and the surf lifesaving standards. Signage should include a warning that 1080 baiting is used in the adjoining DEC National Park.

Erect a bird hide in the foreshore area along the Culham Inlet to the north of the car park (the exact location to be determined following consultation with the Culham Inlet Management Group) and construct a pedestrian path to this site.

Formalise the barrier across the access track to the picnic area with bollards.

Formalise the picnic area nestled behind the foredunes with picnic benches and a BBQ. Investigate the possibility of expanding the car park if visitor use increases.

Erect directional and safety signage along both sides of Hamersley Drive to advise drivers of the location of Four Mile Beach and vehicles entering and exiting the car park.

Erect „No camping‟ and „No fire‟ signage within the picnic area.

Maintain the car park area, pedestrian track to the beach and the day-use picnic area as appropriate.

Create a second car park to the south of existing car park at Beach Place to provide closer access to the beach.

The exact location of the car park is to be determined by the appropriate specialist.

Revert a section of the pedestrian path linking the Beach Place car park to the new car park to vehicle access.

Close public access to the firebreak vehicle tracks on the eastern side Whale Bay Estate with fire gates as this is on UCL and not Shire-managed land.

Close and rehabilitate informal pedestrian and vehicle access tracks along the estate.

Erect fire gates at either end of the access track on Lot 55.

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

Priority

Responsibility

M

SHIRE MRWA CIMG

O

SHIRE CIMG

I

SHIRE

M

SHIRE CIMG

I

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

M-L

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

O

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M

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M

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I

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Site/Location Hopetoun Beaches

No. S2-1 S2-2

S2-3 S2-4

S2-5

S2-6 S2-7 S2-8 S2-9

S2-10

S2-11

S2-12

S2-13 S2-14

S2-15

S2-16

Recommendation

Priority

Responsibility

Maintain pedestrian pathways as appropriate.

Maintain car parking areas as appropriate (ensure vehicle do not encroach on surrounding vegetation, replace damaged bollards, maintain car park surface etc.)

Maintain toilet facilities and picnic facilities (benches, shelters and BBQs).

Investigate purchasing a portion of the UCL adjoining R 48879 so that the existing pedestrian pathway is included within a Shire-managed reserve. Purchasing the entire UCL area should also be considered.

Maintain pedestrian pathways from the caravan park as appropriate in conjunction with the Hopetoun Caravan Park and close if the vegetation and dune systems show signs of degradation and too much disturbance.

Close and rehabilitate informal pedestrian access pathways.

Establish further street parking along Esplanade to provide access to track number 9.

Formalise street parking along Esplanade near the existing vehicle access and boat launching area.

Delineate and formalise pedestrian access to the beach from the existing picnic and recreation area near Hopetoun Groyne. Access should be located close to the majority of facilities, use existing informal access tracks and be properly signposted and fenced to make it clear which access track should be used.

Erect fencing along the back of the toilets and other buildings located within the picnic and recreation area to prohibit informal access across the dunes.

Provide a link between the picnic and recreation area to the east of Hopetoun Groyne and the public facilities to the west of the groyne with appropriate landscaping, pathways, signage and other means.

Prevent widening of pedestrian pathways and retain existing fencing along the path in order to discourage vehicle access.

Remove fallen tyres and railings at the end of the pedestrian pathways and revert to sand tracks only.

Incorporate Shire-managed coastal car parks and recreation areas which are currently located in Road Reserves into the Shire-managed coastal reserves.

Delineate a 30m wide boat launching area along the beach directly to the west of the Hopetoun Groyne where the vehicle access is located and enforce the existing vehicle exclusion area along the foreshore along the remainder of Hopetoun beaches.

Erect „No Vehicle Access to Beachâ€&#x; on Templetonia Drive.

O

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

I-M

SHIRE

I-M

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

M

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

M

SHIRE

I-O

SHIRE

M

SHIRE

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Site/Location Two Mile Beach

No. S3-1

S3-2 S3-3 S3-4

S3-5

S3-6 S3-7 Lookout 1

S3-8 S3-9

Lookout 2

S3-10

S3-11 S3-12 S3-13 S3-14

Lookout 3

S3-15 S3-16 S3-17 S3-18

Recommendation Erect signage at each car park at Two Mile Beach which is consistent with coastal signage used at other coastal locations which provide information on allowed and restricted uses, dog exercise areas, safety and emergency information and directional information.

Close eroding pathways and side tracks and rehabilitate using brushing and revegetation.

Remove unstable and falling tyres along the pathway to the west of car park two.

Construct timber steps at the end of the pedestrian path leading west from car park two to provide access over the steep dunes.

Retain the pedestrian track linking the two car parking areas and construct a viewing platform along its length and formalise the pathway from car park 1.

Maintain toilet facilities, picnic benches and BBQs as appropriate.

Replace no camping and no fires signage. Include directional information to the nearest camping areas.

Erect directional signage stating that this car park is a lookout.

Erect safety signage along the road to make drivers aware of cars turning in and out of the car park and driving over the hill.

Separate pedestrian and vehicles access by establishing a new pedestrian track leading from the car park to the beach. The new track should try to follow currently disturbed or degraded areas as much as possible.

Formalise the vehicle access track leading to the beach.

Close and rehabilitate (brush and revegetate) duplicate vehicle access tracks.

Erect directional signage along Southern Ocean Road to advise drivers of the lookout.

Erect signage at the car park which is which is consistent with coastal signage used at other coastal locations which provide information on allowed and restricted uses, safety and emergency information and directional information. It should indicate the walking distance to the beach and advise pedestrian not to use the vehicle access track.

Close vehicle access at Southern Ocean Road and from the car park using fencing, signage and revegetation.

Revert the vehicle access to pedestrian access only.

Close and rehabilitate (brush and revegetate) the side tracks leading from the pedestrian path.

Erect directional signage along Southern Ocean Road to advise drivers of the lookout.

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

Priority

Responsibility

I

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

M

SHIRE

I

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I

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Site/Location

Lookout 4

No.

Recommendation

S3-19

Erect signage at the car park which is which is consistent with coastal signage used at other coastal locations which provide information on allowed and restricted uses, safety and emergency information and directional information. It should indicate the walking distance to the beach and distance to the closest vehicle access point to the beach (Lookout Two).

Erect directional signage along Southern Ocean Road to advise drivers of the lookout.

Erect interpretative signage in the car park (making sure it is non-obtrusive) which contains information on the cultural and environmental values of the location.

Close and rehabilitate any evidence of vehicle access tracks as soon as they form.

Maintain the car park and pedestrian path as appropriate, including replacing damaged bollards and fencing.

Close access to existing side tracks through fencing, brushing and revegetating disturbed areas.

Continue to prohibit vehicle access to the beach from this site.

Erect signage at the car park which is which is consistent with coastal signage used at other coastal locations which provide information on allowed and restricted uses, safety and emergency information and directional information. It should indicate the walking distance to the beach, that no vehicle access is permitted and to that no camping or lighting of fires is permitted.

Maintain the car park and pedestrian path as appropriate, including replacing damaged bollards and fencing.

Remove the fallen tyres at the end of the pedestrian pathway and revert to a sand track or consider implementing a wooden staircase.

Continue to prohibit vehicle access to the beach from this site.

Expand the gravel car park to the south in the area which is currently the start of the pedestrian pathway as the vegetation is already disturbed in this location.

Erect directional signage along Southern Ocean Road to advise drivers of the car park.

Erect signage at the car park which is which is consistent with coastal signage used at other coastal locations which provide information on allowed and restricted uses, safety and emergency information and directional information. It should indicate the walking distance to the beach, that no vehicle access is permitted and to that no camping or lighting of fires is permitted.

Continue with urgent dune brushing and rehabilitation of the dune blowouts at Seven Mile Beach.

S3-20 S3-21

S3-22 Five Mile Beach

S3-23 S3-24 S3-25 S3-26

Six Mile Beach

S3-27 S3-28

S3-29 S3-30

S3-31 S3-32

Seven Mile Beach

S3-33

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

Priority

Responsibility

I

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

I

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O

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M-L

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M

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Site/Location Castle Rock Beach

No.

Recommendation

S3-34

Manage the site as a low-key ATRR vehicle site only with limited facilities and notification from the main road.

Discourage illegal camping through regular ranger patrol and signage.

Erect signage at the start of the access track from Southern Ocean Road which states that Castle Rock Beach is accessible by ATRR or 4WD vehicles only and recommends that tyres are deflated. Signage should also indicate that no camping is permitted.

Close the side track which currently extends east of the main access track. Erect fencing to discourage access and carry out dune brushing and rehabilitation.

Monitor the amount of visitation to the area and consider formalising and expanding the car park and formalising the pedestrian access to the beach if visitor numbers increase.

Keep vehicle access closed at this location.

Rehabilitate the existing vehicle access tracks through dune brushing and revegetation to discourage its continued use and to help prevent the formation of dune blowouts.

Rename Twelve Mile Beach A as „Eleven Mile Beach‟ to help reduce confusion with Twelve Mile Beach B. Maintain the car park, toilets and pedestrian path as appropriate, including replacing damaged bollards and fencing.

Close and rehabilitate (brush and revegetate) duplicate pedestrian access tracks over the foredune.

Continue to prohibit vehicle access to the beach from this site.

Erect directional signage on Southern Ocean Road to advise drivers of the location of the car park and that toilet amenities are available.

Erect signage at the car park which is which is consistent with coastal signage used at other coastal locations which provide information on allowed and restricted uses, safety and emergency information and directional information. It should indicate the walking distance to the beach and that no vehicle access is permitted and the distance to the closest vehicle access point to the beach (Twelve Mile Beach B).

Rename Twelve Mile Beach B as „Twelve Mile Beach‟ to help reduce confusion with Twelve Mile Beach A. Prohibit camping in the informal camping area which exists behind the car park.

S3-35 S3-36

S3-37

S3-38

Eleven Mile Beach

Twelve Mile Beach A

S3-39 S3-40

S3-41 S3-42

S3-43 S3-44 S3-45

S3-46

Twelve Mile Beach B

S3-47 S3-48

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

Priority

Responsibility

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SHIRE

O

SHIRE

M

SHIRE

I

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O-L

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

I

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I

SHIRE

O

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Site/Location

No.

Recommendation

S3-49

Revert the informal camping area into a low-key day use picnic area. Erect picnic benches and a BBQ and erect signs to advise that no camping or lighting of fires is permitted.

Expand the car park to the west to cater for increased visitor use.

Close and rehabilitate (brush and revegetate) side tracks leading from the main pedestrian track and vehicle access track.

Remove the existing lookout which is situated on the top of the foredune as sand erosion is causing the base of the lookout to move and become unstable and this will continue to occur.

Maintain the car park, picnic area, pedestrian path and vehicle access track as appropriate, including replacing damaged infrastructure and maintaining for safety purposes.

Erect directional signage on Southern Ocean Road to advise drivers of the location of the car park.

Retain the existing vehicle access track located to the east of the car park.

Erect signage at the entrance to the vehicle access track from Southern Ocean Road which states that the track is accessible by ATRR or 4WD vehicles only and recommends that tyres are deflated. Signage should also indicate that no camping is permitted along the track.

Erect signage at the car park which is which is consistent with coastal signage used at other coastal locations which provide information on allowed and restricted uses, safety and emergency information and directional information. It should indicate the walking distance to the beach, that vehicle access is permitted from the track to the east and that no camping or lighting of fires is permitted.

Close the vehicle access to this location.

Close and rehabilitate (brush and revegetate) pedestrian access to the beach.

Erect signage at the closed track at Southern Ocean Drive to advise drivers that the site has been closed due to unstable limestone formations at the beach which has caused dangerous pedestrian access.

Erect signage at the existing car park to advise pedestrians that access has been closed due to the danger associated with the unstable limestone cliffs at the beach.

Manage the site as a low-key ATRR vehicle site only with limited facilities and notification from the main road.

S3-50 S3-51

S3-52

S3-53

S3-54 S3-55 S3-56

S3-57

Thirteen Mile Beach

S3-58 S3-59 S3-60

S3-61

Fourteen Mile Beach

S3-62

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

Priority

Responsibility

M

SHIRE

M-L

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

I-M

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

M

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

I

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I

SHIRE

O

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Site/Location

No.

Recommendation

S3-63

Discourage illegal camping through regular ranger patrol and signage.

Erect signage at the start of the access track from Southern Ocean Road which states that Fourteen Mile Beach is accessible by ATRR or 4WD vehicles only and recommends that tyres are deflated. Signage should also indicate that no camping or lighting of fires is permitted.

Erect fencing along the eastern side of the pedestrian pathway to close access to the dune blowout and rehabilitate through dune brushing and revegetation.

Manage the site as a low-key ATRR vehicle site only with limited facilities and notification from the main road.

Discourage illegal camping through regular ranger patrol and signage.

Erect signage at the start of the access track from Southern Ocean Road which states that Mullet Bay is accessible by ATRR or 4WD vehicles only and recommends that tyres are deflated. Signage should also indicate that no camping or lighting of fires is permitted.

Close the side track which currently extends east of the main access track and side tracks at the end of the access path near the beach. Erect fencing to discourage access and carry out dune brushing and rehabilitation.

Monitor the amount of visitation to the area and consider formalising and expanding the car park and formalising the pedestrian access to the beach as visitor numbers increase.

Manage the site as a low-key ATRR vehicle site only with limited facilities and notification from the main road.

Discourage illegal camping through regular ranger patrol and signage.

Erect signage at the start of the access track from Southern Ocean Road which states that East Mullet Bay is accessible by ATRR or 4WD vehicles only and recommends that tyres are deflated. Signage should also indicate that no camping or lighting of fires is permitted.

Close the side track which currently extends west of the main access track and side tracks at the end of the access path near the beach. Erect fencing to discourage access and carry out dune brushing and rehabilitation.

Close the duplicate access tracks from Southern Ocean Road by erecting fencing and rehabilitating with dune brushing and revegetation.

Manage the site as a low-key ATRR vehicle site only with limited facilities and notification from the main road.

S3-64

S3-65

Mullet Bay

S3-66 S3-67 S3-68

S3-69

S3-70

East Mullet Bay

S3-71 S3-72 S3-73

S3-74

S3-75

Eighteen Mile Beach

S3-76

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

Priority

Responsibility

O

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

L

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

Page 115

FINAL

Site/Location

No.

Recommendation

S3-77

Discourage illegal camping through regular ranger patrol and signage.

Erect signage at the start of both access tracks from Southern Ocean Road which states that Eighteen Mile Beach is accessible by ATRR or 4WD vehicles only and recommends that tyres are deflated. Signage should also indicate that no camping or lighting of fires is permitted.

Close the track which currently extends between the main access tracks and smaller side tracks and duplicate tracks. Erect fencing to discourage access and carry out dune brushing and rehabilitation where required.

Close the middle access track from Southern Ocean Road with fencing and encourage drivers to use one of the other two access tracks.

Maintain the car park, vehicle access and pedestrian pathways as appropriate, including replacing damaged infrastructure, maintaining for safety purposes and controlling damage and erosion.

Discourage illegal camping through regular ranger patrol and signage and indicate the distance to the nearest formal camping area (Mason Bay).

Erect signage at the vehicle access track to warn drivers of the dangers associated with driving over rocky coastal areas.

Maintain the campsite, roads, vehicle access points, pedestrian pathways and toilets as appropriate, including the replacement of damaged infrastructure and maintenance for safety purposes.

Close informal tracks leading through the dune vegetation to the toilets with fencing, dune brushing and revegetation and provide a sign at the car park closest to the beach to advise visitors that the access tracks to the toilets are on either side of the central vegetated area.

Open the existing vehicle access track on the eastern side of the camping ground (remove the bollard which currently restricts access) and permit driving along the beach to the east.

Amend the vehicle exclusion area at Mason Bay to include the beach foreshore which extends along the main beach in front of the camping ground between the two vehicle access points. Boat launching and vehicle access should be permitted along the beach on either side of the vehicle exclusion area.

Erect signage at the entrance to the vehicle access tracks to advise drivers of the vehicle exclusion zone and to advise which direction of the beach they are permitted to drive along.

S3-78

S3-79

S3-80

Mason Point

S4-1

S4-2

S4-3

Mason Bay

S4-4

S4-5

S4-6

S4-7

S4-8

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

Priority

Responsibility

O

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

M

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

I

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Site/Location

No. S4-9 S4-10

Starvation Boat Harbour

S4-11

S4-12

S4-13

S4-14 S4-15 North Powell Point

S4-16 S4-17

S4-18 S4-19

S4-20

S4-21 Powell Point

S4-22 S4-23 S4-24 S4-25

Recommendation Consider the appointment of a caretaker for Mason Bay during peak seasons.

Brush and revegetate dune erosion along the foredunes along the main beach area.

Investigate the possibility of establishing a formal boat ramp at Starvation Boat Harbour. The exact location will need to be determined based on engineering investigations and community consultation.

Open the area currently used as a „day use picnic area‟ if the boat ramp is constructed in order to provide access for vehicles using the boat ramp and parking after boat launching.

Fix pedestrian access tracks to the beach from the Starvation Boat Harbour camping and day use area.

Unstable tyres on the primary dunes should be removed and replaced with timber steps.

Resurface the road into the camp site and day use area.

Maintain the car park, camp site, day use areas, toilets and pedestrian access as appropriate.

Fence the formal pedestrian path which provides access from the car park to the rocky headland.

Erect safety signs at the start of formal pedestrian pathways to advise users to beware of walking over rocks.

Discourage camping within the dunes through increased ranger presence and signage.

Close informal pathways leading to the rocky headland with fencing at the entrance and dune brushing and rehabilitation.

Erect signage at car park which is which is consistent with coastal signage used at other coastal locations which provide information on allowed and restricted uses, safety and emergency information and directional information. It should also indicate the walking distance and direction to the public toilets and the location of formal camping grounds at „tent city‟.

Maintain the car park and pedestrian path as appropriate, including replacing damaged bollards and fencing.

Close vehicle access to the north-west of the car park.

Close informal tracks and carry out urgent rehabilitation (dune brushing and revegetation).

Formalise pedestrian pathways and discourage use of informal tracks through the use of signage and fencing.

Erect safety signs at the start of formal pedestrian pathways to advise users to beware of walking over rocks.

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

Priority

Responsibility

M

SHIRE

I-M

SHIRE

M-L

SHIRE

M-L

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

M

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

O

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I

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I

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I

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I

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FINAL

Site/Location

No.

Recommendation

S4-26

Erect signage at the car park which is which is consistent with coastal signage used at other coastal locations which provide information on allowed and restricted uses, safety and emergency information and directional information.

Carry out urgent rehabilitation on dune blowout.

Maintain the car park, pedestrian pathways and the lookout/viewing platform as appropriate, including replacing damaged bollards and fencing.

S4-27 S4-28

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

Priority

Responsibility

I

SHIRE

I

SHIRE

O

SHIRE

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Australian‟s Golden Outback, (2011), Esperance and South Coast, from http://www.australiasgoldenoutback.com/en/Destinations/Esperance_and_South_Coast/Pages/R avensthorpe.aspx Australian Water Safety Council, (2006), National Aquatic and Recreational Signage Style Manual, Third Edition, Life Saving Victoria, Victoria.

Belton-Taylforth Planning and Environmental Consultants, (2005), Shire of Jerramungup Coastal Management Plan, Shire of Jerramungup, WA. Brooks, K. and Brown, K., (2002), Bushland Weeds (A Practical Guide to Their Management), Environmental Weeds Action Network (Inc.), Greenwood.

Bureau of Meteorology, (2011), Climate Statistics for Australian Locations, from http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/averages/tables/cw_010633.shtml Christensen, P., Annels, A., Liddelow, G. And Skinner, P. (1985). Vertebrate fauna of the Southern Forests of Western Australia. A Survey. Forests Department of Western Australia, Bulletin 94.

Coffey Environments and South Coast Management Group, (2009), Southern Shores 2009-2030. A Strategy to Guide Coastal Zone Planning and Management in the South Coast Region of Western Australia, South Coast Management Group, WA. Coffey Environments, (2009), Climate Change Adaptation: Whole of Landscape Analysis of the Impacts and Options for the South Coast Region of Western Australia, South Coast Natural Resources Management, WA. Damara and Shore Coastal, (2008), Shire of Busselton Local Environmental Planning Strategy Coastal Impacts of Climate Change, WA. Department of Agriculture and Food (DAFWA), (2010), Natural Resource Management – Shared Land Information Platform, From http://spatial.agric.wa.gov.au/slip/ Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, (2009), http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/ Department of Environmental Protection, (2000), Bush Forever Volume 2 Directory of Bush Forever Sites, Government of Western Australia.

Department of Indigenous Affairs, (2010), Sites Register, From website www.dia.wa.gov.au.

Dieback Working Group, (2000), Managing Phythophthora Dieback – Guidelines for Local Government, Dieback Working Group, WA.

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

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Ecoscape, (2004), Town of Victoria Park Remnant Vegetation Management Plan, Town of Victoria Park.

WA. Field, C, (2001), Ravensthorpe District Coastal Management Plan, Coastcare, WA. Green, B and Wetherley, S. (2000), Geology, Landforms and Mineral Extraction in the South Coast – A Review. A Supporting Document to Southern Shores – A Strategy to Guide Coastal and Marine Planning and Management in the South Coast Region of Western Australia, SCMG, Albany, WA. Green Skills, (2007), Wetland Conservation in the Jerdacuttup-Ravensthorpe Area, Management of the Lake Shaster and Jerdacuttup Wetland Suites: Assessment and Recommendations, South Coast Natural Resource Management Team, WA. Heritage Council of Western Australia, (2010), Sites Register, From website: www.heritage.wa.gov.au.

Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, (2005), Bulletin and Climate Note series.

Shire of Ravensthorpe, (2010), Dogs Local law 2010, Shire of Ravensthorpe, WA. Shire of Ravensthorpe, (2010), Shire of Ravensthorpe Local Government Property Local Law 2010, Shire of Ravensthorpe WA. SMEC Australia, (2007), Climate Change Adaptation Actions for Local Government.

Surf Life Saving Australia, (2007), Australian Coastal Public Safety Guidelines 1st Edition, Surf Life Saving Australia, WA. Western Australian Planning Commission, (1999) Development Control No. 6.1 Country Coastal Planning Policy, Western Australian Planning Commission, Perth, WA. Western Australian Planning Commission, (2002), Review of the Structural Arrangements for Coastal Planning and Management in Western Australia for Public Comment, Western Australian Planning Commission, Perth.

Western Australian Planning Commission, (2003), Coastal Planning and Management Manual, Western Australian Planning Commission, Perth.

Western Australian Planning Commission, (2003), State Planning Policy No. 2.6. State Coastal Planning, Western Australian Planning Commission, Perth.

Western Australian Planning Commission, (2003), Shire of Ravensthorpe Town Planning Scheme No. 5, Western Australian Planning Commission, Perth.

Western Australian Planning Commission, (2008), Coastlines Spring Edition 2008, Western Australian Planning Commission, Perth.

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

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Western Australian Planning Commission, (2010). Position Statement – State Planning Policy No. 2.6 State Coastal Planning Policy Schedule 1 Sea Level Rise, WAPC Perth Western Australia.

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan October 2011

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Questionnaire Summary

Questionnaires

41

2. What Whichiscoastal your main locations activity doatyou the visit beach? and use the most?

Hamersely Inlet Culham Inlet Four Mile Beach Whale Bay Beach Estate Hopetoun Beaches Two Mile Beach Five Mile Beach

23 20 19 3 35 23 12

Six Mile Beach Castle Rock Beach Eleven Mile Beach Twelve Mile Beach A Twelve Mile Beach B Thirteen Mile Beach Fourteen Mile Beach

7 2 1 10 8 8 3

Mullet Bay Eighteen Mile Beach Mason's Bay North Powell Point Powell Point Starvation Boat Harbour Oldfield Inlet

4 2 14 1 1 18 6

26 4 9 8 1

Windsurfing Boating Camping Snorkelling Other

0 8 18 9 7

15

Once a month

3. What What do is your you like main about activity your at preferred your favourite beach? coastal locations?

Swimming Fishing 4 Wheel Driving Surfing Water Skiing

29 23 9 4 0

Walking Sunbathing Dog exercise Picnicking Scuba Diving

4. What How often do you dodislike you visit abut your your favourite preferred coastal beach? location?

Everyday Other

4 11

Once a week

9

5. Is Is there the conservation anything you ofwould natural like values to change on theabout Shire's your coastline preferred important beach (1: to least you (1: important least - 5:- most)?

5: most important)?

1 (least important) 2

0 0

3 4

0 9

5 (most important)

31

6. Please fuufisfuifui identify which values or features at the coast are most important to you Aesthetics Landscape Natural environment Ocean & water features

14 24 30 20

Sandy Beaches Biodiversity Facilities Access

21 20 14 20

Camping Overall experience Views Other

14 14 17 0

4 3 3 2

Camping areas Good for swimming Calm waters Bushwalking

2 2 1 1

3 2 2 1

Increase in crowded areas No interpretive signage Recklessness of visitors No lights

1 1 1 1

7. What hkjhfshfkjs do you like about your preferred coastal location?

Natural, pristine condition Peace & Isolation Wildlife, biodiversity, vegetation Good fishing location

16 10 4 4

Serene views Access No dogs policy Good range of activities

8. What hfhfhfs do you dislike about your preferred coastal location Erosion Vehicle access on beaches Litter Lack of dog policy enforcement

7 7 6 4

Not enough provision of shade Lack of facility maintenance Lack of BBQ facilities Price of camping

9. Ishaieuriquriq there anything you'd like to change about your preferred coastal location?

Ban any vehicle access BBQ facilities More signage Restrict vehicle access Increased provision of shelter More toilets at Masons Bay

5 5 4 3 2 2

Leave the coast alone 2 Rubbish bins at pathway entrance 1 2 1 Restore and protect dunes No dogs near National Park Boundary More personnel to patrol and enforce 2 policies Bitumen around toilets and car parks1 Heavy penalties for littering 2 Powered campsites 1 Review camp fees 1 A marine reserve at Fitzgerald National 1 Park Revamp main Hopetoun beach 1 Keep Hamersley Inlet 1

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan 2011 Community Questionnaire 2010-2011 – General Comments Need more ranger time to police access and funding for them The shire is doing a good job Prevent vehicle access on all beaches You are doing a great job Please spend money on implementing management plan rather than commissioning new/ updated ones. Great to have increased Ranger presence in recent years Shire management obviously work hard, very impressive and keep up the good work!

Important to retain natural ambience The Shire should not manage them!

More frequent maintenance required. Our coastal areas are magnificent – with increased population we must protect them 1) Suggest provision of alternative venues for use by quad bikes and off road vehicles – often discussed but nothing eventuating 2) Enforcement of proposed by-laws (Local Gov Property Local Law 2009) 3) Active monitoring/fining of unlicensed vehicles 4) Extension of vehicular restricted areas wherever possible 5) Ongoing rehabilitation as a matter of policy 6) Acceptance of responsibility for protection of areas where endangered birds nest, such as Hooded Plover on Flathead Point and eastern aspect of 2 mile beach. Under the Wildlife Conservation Act there is a legal responsibility for land managers to consider how their management affects endangered wildlife Coastal areas need a visible and effective ranger to control hoons Walking / Cycling tracks to 2 mile If tracks are closed others will be created by users, this impacts on the surrounding bush, maybe maintain these tracks Yes, we would like to see the shire ranger visiting our beaches more often Well maintained and clean, well done!

Better information for facilities, access & fishing Poor state of Hopetown foreshore, not a very interesting aspect of our town No, doing a great job all areas are clean and looking good. Though I will say I have been to a couple of picnic areas that the BBQ’s are not working, and if you have metal scrapers on them it would be a lot easier to keep clean for everyone Rails on steps at town beaches are rusting and need to be painted Our shire workers do a great job Put a coastal road through to Brammin Bay Designated bike and 4wd areas with rest protected and implement heavy fines to pay rangers salaries Generally shade and shelters are disappearing due to scrub being pulled down or cut down to light fires, camp fires are consistently being illegally lit and kids burn and tread or falling into hot coals Plant more trees Managing and maintaining these areas will only become more difficult with the inevitable influx of people due to mining activity in the next ten years

Category

Management Recommendation

Provision of Facilities

Install, renovate, remove or replace toilets at Shire of Ravensthorpe beaches as prioritised.

Install fish cleaning stations at Starvation Boat harbour and Hopetoun Groyne and ensure regular disposal of fish offal A shade tree planting program, using local species, be undertaken adjacent to camp sites at Starvation Boat harbour and Mason’s Bay A long term plan be drawn up for the installation and renovation of shade shelters at coastal reserves Formalise beach names between Hopetoun and Mason’s Point Design and erect standard signage of an appropriate colour scheme at regularly frequented beaches showing beach name, rules, recreational activities, safety issues and facilities available.

Encourage use of free gas bbq’s and gas cookers in conjunction with regulations on open wood fires during the prohibited burning season Install or replace bbq’s at popular Shire beaches as prioritised Rationalise coastal camping grounds and tracks and close unwarranted ones to minimise resource costs and coastal degradation All suitable campsites , roads and tracks across the Ravensthorpe Shire mapped and made available to the public Remove unwarranted squatters and squatter dwellings from coastal reserves using either Local Government (Miscellaneous) Act 1960 on Shire vested land or request an interim vesting order from DOLA to allow implementation of the State Squatters Policy 1989 if required Retain the complete primary dune system as a coastal foreshore setback in its natural form for any development of land adjoining the sea in the Shire Incorporate coastal foreshore setbacks for land abutting the ea in future reviews of the Shire TPS. Monitor beach erosion between Flathead Point and the exposed reef at Hopetoun Retain the vegetation buffer between The Esplanade and the ocean to assist in stabilising the dune system and combating erosion Should stabilisation of the Hopetoun foreshore near Flathead Point become a pressing issue due to infrastructure being threatened a cost comparison between the options of beach renourishment, planning strategic retreat and construction of a sea wall be undertaken Seek to share the cost for the foreshore erosion options study and chosen remediation method with the DoT The maintenance costs of the Hopetoun Groyne be the responsibility of the DoT

Signage

Collection of firewood

Informal camping

Squatters Dwellings

Coastal Foreshore setbacks

Shoreline Erosion

Boat launching

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan 2011-2021 Actions from Ravensthorpe District Coastal Management Plan 2001

APPENDIX B

Page 1

Category

Management Recommendation

facilities and Groynes Aquaculture

Upgrading or creation of the new boat launching facilities to be investigated Develop and adopt guidelines for land-based aquaculture development Ensure impacts of aquaculture developments on environmental and recreational values are minimised when assessing aquaculture proposals Community consultation be undertaken when aquaculture development sites are identified that may impact on the communities recreational and environmental values and access to the coast Where high destruction of coastal locations is occurring restrict or prohibit detrimental recreational activities or access until additional infrastructure and a management presence can be implemented Liaise with mining companies to ensure the environmental impacts of the mining process will be minimised and a best practise rehabilitation plan is in place prior to mining companies commencing Rehabilitate all disused limestone pits once mining is finished Encourage the South Coast Regional Coastcare Facilitator to run a Coastal Education Program in the Shire with assistance from the Shire Ranger to foster awareness and educate the general public and school children about coastal issues and the part they can play in minimising impacts on the coast.

Encourage and support the implementation of the Fitzgerald Marine Conservation reserve in consultation with the community and associated industry groups Enact a Shire of Raventhorpe by-law restricting vehicle and motorbike access to the stretch of beach between Hopetoun Groyne and the Canning Street access to West Beach except for the purposes of boat launching or if granted an annual or temporary pass to take off-road vehicles on the beach for an express purpose Encourage active management of off-road vehicles at Starvation Boat Harbour, Mason’s Bay, Hamersley Inlet and on the beaches between Four Mile and Two Mile Beach Investigate and assign areas suitable for off-road vehicles Restrict of off-road vehicles on the bush track between The Esplanade and Two Mile Beach and encourage use of the track as an extension to the existing pedestrian and cycle trail Upgrade the bush track between The Esplanade and Two Mile Beach to a path suitable for use by pedestrians and cyclists Provide, or continue to provide, rubbish receptacles and a regular collection service at Four Mile Beach, Hopetoun Groyne, Two Mile Beach, Five Mile Beach, Twelve Mile Beach A and Twelve Mile Beach B, Mason’s Bay and Starvation Boat Harbour only Erect signage at minor coastal locations and non camping areas asking people to take their rubbish with them Undertake occasional rubbish cleanups at all coastal reserves Raise awareness of commercial and recreational mariners and fishers about the impact of rubbish dumping on marine life and the beach A dieback management policy be written to assist in preventing the pread of dieback The Management of Pytophthora Dieback Guidelines for Local Government 2000 to be followed in the prevention and management of dieback at all areas suspected or known to contain dieback within the Shire reserves

Mining impacts

Coastal education and awareness

Marine conservation reserve Off-road vehicles

Trails

Rubbish Disposal

Dieback

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan 2011-2021 Actions from Ravensthorpe District Coastal Management Plan 2001

APPENDIX B

Page 2

Category Weeds

Feral Animals

Exercising animals

Fire management

Aboriginal interests and heritage

Management Recommendation Remove and aim to manage Bridal Creeper at coastal reserves Support the development of specific programs for the identification and eradication of weeds and support volunteers if the Weeds Action Group working on Shire reserves.

Seek assistance from Agriculture WA for the eradication of rabbits, foxes and feral cats at all coastal reserves Undertake an annual feral cat trapping program at Mason’s Bay an Starvation Boat Harbour Dogs be prohibited on the beach west of the Hopetoun Groyne to the boat ramp and be on a lead on beaches within Hopetoun except for designated dog exercise areas where they can be off the lead from West Beach (Canning Street) car park to the western Town Fire break and east of the Hopetoun Groyne Local laws be updated and signage be erected to reflect the existence of designated dog exercise areas and allow prosecution of offenders who exercise dogs off a lead in a non-designated area Install dog litter bins at west Beach (canning Street) car park and McCulloch Park Impose a ban on all ground fires at Shire of Ravensthorpe reserves in the prohibited burning season from the 1st Nov to 31st Jan each year Remove all ground fire drums and fireplaces prior to prohibited burning season to discourage campers from lighting fires at that time of the year Erect signage at each camping location pertaining to ground fire regulations and cooking during the prohibited season Develop and implement a comprehensive Fire Management Plan in consultation with local Volunteer Bushfire Brigades, FESA and CALM Consultation be held with the relevant Native Title Claimants and the Aboriginal Affairs Department for any major coastal development undertaken along the Shire managed coastline.

Table 1.2 –Recommendations from the 2001 CMP for individual sites Category

Management Recommendation

Hamersley Inlet

Implement camping fees at Hamersley Inlet camping ground Remove dead firewood on the reserve to reduce the fuel load Prohibit dogs to compliment management in the surrounding CALM managed estate and erect signage to reflect this Remove all rubbish bins and erect signage asking people to take their rubbish with them Detailed site planning be undertaken for Hamersley Inlet camp ground to include: Increasing the number of campsites Installation of bbqs and better toilet facilities Creating a picnic area on the hill that is currently utilized for camping Erecting signage requesting no camping on Hamersley Inlet or Beach Erecting signage stating camp rules, fees and prohibited or allowed activities A walk trail from Hamersley Inlet camp ground to Hamersley Beach

Culham Inlet Beach

Prohibit dogs from the steps to the beach and westward due to risk of 1080 poisoned

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan 2011-2021 Actions from Ravensthorpe District Coastal Management Plan 2001

APPENDIX B

Page 3

Category

Four Mile Beach

Management Recommendation baits in the adjoining Fitzgerald River National Park and erect signage to reflect this Replace a section of the buried post rail fencing closest to the beach Close access onto the dune blowout near the picnic area to allow for rehabilitation and erect brush fencing in the throat of the dune blowout Increase the car park size to accommodate additional vehicles Install picnic facilities in the designated picnic area and bollard around the perimeter of the area to stop people trampling on the surrounding dune systems Erect beach name signage on Southern Ocean West Road directing traffic to Four Mile Beach

Whale Bay Estate Beach

Main Hopetoun Beaches

Two Mile Beach

Track One

Request vesting of the coastal strip of vacant crown land between Reserve 33173 (Four Mile Beach) and R 35379 (West Beach) for the purpose of recreation and conservation Create a new car park and pathway closer to the beach along the present 4WD track off Beach Place in the Whale Bay Estate Close access that runs off the main town firebreak to the beach Install formal car park and pathway to the beach to complement the proposed housing development Maintain the existing walk trail to Whale Bay Estate Beach and upgrade the stairs to the beach end Develop a comprehensive management plan once the subdivision proposal has been finalised Implement and maintain remaining recommendation in the 1997 report on Hopetoun beaches in Table 7 Ensure fencing (with pine bollards and ringlock) of boundary of the Hopetoun Caravan Park to minimise encroachment and unwanted access onto the West Beach foreshore reserve and Canning Street Erect signage directing people to beach access paths from within the Hopetoun Caravan Park Fence The Esplanade from the corner with Veal Street to the Hopetoun Caravan park with post and rail fencing and ringlock to protect the vegetation and provide parking Create small car parks adjoining The Esplanade at Site 17 (Scott Street), Site 19 (Chambers Street) and Site 20 (4WD access to the beach) to minimise vehicle conflict with pedestrians and present surrounding vegetation Replace tyre stairway at Site 24 (Phillips Street Firebreak) with a wooden staircase Prohibit camping at Site 26 (ex-beacon) to allow the mobile dunes to stabilise Develop access to complement Railway Heritage Walk Trail.

Close walk path over dunes close to Car park One by extending post and rail fencing, laying brushing and erecting ringlock fencing along the existing post and rail fencing Replace torn down bollards in car park Two picnic area Close additional tracks off Car park Two near the beach and lay brushing Erect ‘No Camping’ signage and signage to direct people to picnic areas. Toilets, car parks and pathways at Two Mile Beach Retain Track One as 4WD only and erect bollards at the end of the track to stop vehicles trying to drive down the steep dunes

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan 2011-2021 Actions from Ravensthorpe District Coastal Management Plan 2001

APPENDIX B

Page 4

Category Lookout One Lookout Two Track Two Tracks 3, 4 and 5 Track 6 Track 7 Lookout Three

Five Mile Beach

Lookout Four

Track 8 Six Mile Beach

Track Nine Seven Mile (Dunes)

Castel Rock Beach

Eleven Mile Beach Twelve Mile Beach A

Management Recommendation Erect no camping signage and discourage camping Erect signage on Southern Ocean East Road directing vehicles to Lookout One and interpretative signage at the lookout about the surrounding scenery Close secondary tracks off the main 4WD track to the beach from Lookout Two Create pedestrian track from the car park at Lookout Two onto the 4WD track Retain Track Two 4WD use, discourage camping and monitor over time Close Tracks 3, 4 and 5 to prevent unnecessary access and camping Retain Track 6 for 4WD use, discourage camping and monitor over time Close Track 7 and brush the walk path to the beach to try to rehabilitate the dune blowout formed at this location Install limestone walk path and post and rail fencing from the car park to the top of steep path down the dunes and restrict vehicle access past the existing gravel car park Install a wooden staircase on the steep eastern path to the beach and close the western path Increase the size and improve the design of the existing gravel car park Replace rails that have been pulled down and add ringlock fencing along the length of the rail fenced path Undertake replanting and brushing program on dune slopes either side of the path down to Five Mile Beach Erect ‘No Camping’ signage in the Five Mile Beach car park Erect signage on Southern Ocean East Road directing people to Lookout Four Replace bollards around the car park at Lookout Four Erect interpretative signage describing the Jerdacuttup Lakes, local geology and beaches east of Lookout Four Close Track Eight to prevent unnecessary access Erect signage off Southern Ocean East Road directing people towards Six Mile Beach Erect an additional hand rail along the access path to the beach to stop people walking along side the path and creating erosion channels at Six Mile Beach Develop and implement a design to increase the car park size at Six Mile Beach Close Track Nine to prevent unnecessary access Erect higher and longer stretches of post and rail fencing with ring lock along Southern Ocean East Road at Seven Mile Beach to discourage people from walking up the dunes allowing them to rehabilitate Transplant Spinifex hirsutus on dune blowouts and replace previously erected sand trapping fences along the major dune blowouts at Seven Mile Beach to prevent the spread of dunes onto Southern Ocean East Road Actively seek funding for intensive rehabilitation works Retain Castle Rock Beach as low key 4WD location If visitation increases erect post and rail fencing along the existing walk trail and increase the car park size Close all access and camping at Eleven Mile Beach and redirect people to Twelve Mile Beach A Rename Twelve Mile Beach A as Eleven Mile beach and relocate signage accordingly

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan 2011-2021 Actions from Ravensthorpe District Coastal Management Plan 2001

APPENDIX B

Page 5

Category

Management Recommendation Cut brush back from overgrown path to Twelve Mile Beach A Replace damaged post and rail fencing along the pathway to Twelve Mile Beach A and erect ring lock fencing on the structure Erect wooden staircase down the foredune to the beach Create a formal campsite at Twelve Mile Beach A on the east side of the car park to include: 1. a maximum of 20 tent campsites 2. Charging of camping feed 3. Improvement to car parking areas 4. Improvement of toilet facilities 5. Planting of shade trees 6. Provision of bbq and picnic tables

Twelve Mile Beach B and Track 10

Thirteen Mile Beach

Fourteen Mile Beach

Mullet Bay

Eighteen Mile Beach

Tracks 11, 12, 13 and 14

Close Track 10 adjacent to Twelve Mile Beach B car park to prevent unnecessary access and prevent dune destabilisation Realign and improve the path to Twelve Mile Beach B by erecting post and rail fencing, consolidating the path with limestone and installing wooden sleeper steps Brush the dune blowout along the path to Twelve Mile Beach B Increase the car park size using a roundabout design and erect post and rail fencing around the area at Twelve Mile Beach B Install picnic tables and bbq under the shady trees adjacent to the Twelve Mile Beach B car park Erect ‘No Camping’ signage once a formal campsite has been created at Twelve Mile Beach A Erect ‘No Camping’ signage at Thirteen Mile Beach Create a small gravel car park in the area presently used for parking at Thirteen Mile Beach Install post and rail fencing, boardwalking, viewing platform on top of limestone ridge, interpretative signage and wooden stairway at thirteen Mile Beach Create a walk trail to the beach along the existing path using post and rail fencing, close 4WD access and rehabilitate the slopes of the dune to minimise the dune blowout that has formed Retain Fourteen Mile Beach as a low-key 4WD location Relocate signage on the correct track that leads to Mullet Bay Close the 4WD tracks that run west of the main track to Mullet Bay and east of the main track to East Mullet Bay Upgrade walk trail and car park area if visitation to Mullet Bay increases Maintain Mullet Bay and East Mullet Bay as low-key 4WD destinations Retain Eighteen Mile Beach as a low-key 4WD location Close the 4WD track that runs from the Eighteen Mile Beach car park eastward Erect bollards at the top of the limestone cliff car park at Eighteen Mile Beach to prevent vehicle access to the beach Retain Tracks 11, 12, 13 and 14 as low key 4WD destinations but rationalise if the visitation in the area increases

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan 2011-2021 Actions from Ravensthorpe District Coastal Management Plan 2001

APPENDIX B

Page 6

Category Mason’s Point

Tracks 15, 16 and 17 Oldfield Inlet

Starvation Boat Harbour and Powell Point

Management Recommendation Bollard car parks, create pathways and restrict vehicle access to the beach from both car parks at Mason’s Point Discourage camping and erect ‘No Camping’ signage with associated penalties at Mason’s Point Erect signage showing residential uses of Mason’s Point e.g. fishing, dogs allowed, no 4WDs Negotiate alignment of the proposed Ravensthorpe Nickel Operations inlet/outlet pipeline and pimp station by undertaking extensive community consultation with recreational users of the area Close racks 15, 16 and 17 between Starvation Boat Harbour and Mason’s Bay to minimise dune erosion Restrict the creation of any tracks or camping areas at Oldfield Inlet Reserve Offer the vesting of the Oldfield Inlet reserve 32338 to other interested government organisations for the purpose of conservation.

Request vesting of part of the Rabbit Reserve at Starvation Boat Harbour a shown in Option 1 in consultation with CALM Install new access to Powell Point Beach across rocks and low dunes with bollards and boardwalks Brush dune blowout at Powell Point Beach down from the lookout, erect brush fencing and restrict access Erect an honour box at Starvation Boat Harbour and mason’s Bay, implement camping fees and collect them in the short term Undertake design and costing for a new camping area near the old fisherman’s lease at Starvation Boat Harbour for a maximum of 40 camping sites (tents or caravans) Undertake flora, fauna and dieback surveys of the proposed Starvation Boat Harbour camp ground Undertake works to implement the new Starvation Boat Harbour camp ground following outcomes of the Starvation Boat Harbour survey Relocate all current tent camping and caravans to the new camping area Upgrade ‘tent city’ into a day use picnic area and the old caravan area to be utilised as an overflow area during peak times only Appoint a casual, seasonal caretaker to be based in Starvation Boat Harbour to manage Starvation Boat Harbour and Mason’s Bay Close all camping areas at Mason’s Bay and upgrade the foreshore to a day use picnic area Upgrade North Powell Point by: 1. Erecting bollards and laying limestone path on the more easterly walk track 2. Close the unwanted paths 3. Defining the car park with large rocks or bollards Erect signage directing people to the beach along the access path at Powell Point Beach

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan 2011-2021 Actions from Ravensthorpe District Coastal Management Plan 2001

APPENDIX B

Page 7

Table 1.3 –Recommendations from the 2001 CMP - Implementation Category Management Priorities Human Resources

Financial Resources

Governance

Management Recommendation Review the Hopetoun Foreshore Plan by 2003 Revise the Ravensthorpe District Coastal Management Plan by 2006 Employ a full-time ranger to undertake maintenance and management of the Shire of Ravensthorpe’s coastal reserves and provide adequate tools and a vehicle to undertake these tasks Provide formal coastal management training for the Shire if Ravensthorpe ranger Investigate options for a seasonal caretaker to be shared between Starvation Boat Harbour and Mason’s Bay Bestow honorary ranger status on the CALM Fitzgerald River National Park rangers to enforce regulations at Hamersley Inlet reserve An annual fishing contribution be made towards the South Coast Regional Coastcare Facilitator Program for continued assistance and advice on coastal management issues, undertaking coastal education and organising work programs within the Shire of Ravensthorpe Encourage and support volunteer groups and government work programs to undertake on-ground works programs on the Shire of Ravensthorpe coastal reserves Offer Annual Camping Passes for $35 per family for 14 days camping in the camping grounds of Starvation Boat Harbour. Mason’s Bay and Hamersley Inlet to ratepayers or residents of the Shire of Ravensthorpe Charge daily camping fees for use of the camping grounds at Starvation Boat Harbour, Mason’s Bay and Hamersley Inlet for those without Shire of Ravensthorpe Annual Camping Passes of $5/night for 2 people and $2/night for additional people Seek funding from coastal and marine management programs to carry out on-ground coastal works, planning and project management Allocate separate accounts for each main Shire of Ravensthorpe managed coastal reserve to enable tracing of expenditure and income Adopt a set of by-laws to allow the Shire of Ravensthorpe staff powers to police unwanted recreational activities on reserved vested in them relating to: 1. Camping and recreational reserves 2. Rubbish disposal and littering 3. Dog exercise areas and penalties 4. Ground-fires during prohibited burning season 5. Camping fees 6. Use of off-road vehicles areas and speed limits Form a Shire of Ravensthorpe Environment Advisory Committee with local government, community and state government representatives to discuss and advise on natural resource issues relating to the Shire including management of coastal camping grounds and reserves.

Shire of Ravensthorpe Coastal Management Plan 2011-2021 Actions from Ravensthorpe District Coastal Management Plan 2001

APPENDIX B

Page 8

Legend Proposed Track Management

Highway Main Road

Track to be closed

Other Roads

Track to remain open

HO

PE

TO U

N-R

AV E

NS

TH

OR

PE

RD

Cadastral Boundaries

Lookout Two

Lookout One

Two Mile Beach

COASTAL RESERVES MANAGEMENT STRATEGY: SHIRE OF RAVENSTHORPE UN IT 1/1 A LVAN STREET, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6929 PHONE: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMA IL: ad min@ landinsights.com.au

Date: 10/01/2011 Plan: Track Management_1 Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe and Land Insights

E

0

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1:10,000 0.5

Kilometres

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Track Management Proposals PLAN 1

Legend Proposed Track Management

Highway Main Road

Track to be closed

Other Roads

Track to remain open

Cadastral Boundaries

Five Mile Beach Lookout Three Lookout Four Track Eight

Six Mile Beach

Seven Mile Beach

Castle Rock Beach Eleven Mile Beach Twelve Mile Beach A Twelve Mile Beach B Thirteen Mile Beach

COASTAL RESERVES MANAGEMENT STRATEGY: SHIRE OF RAVENSTHORPE UN IT 1/1 A LVAN STREET, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6929 PHONE: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMA IL: ad min@ landinsights.com.au

Date: 10/01/2011 Plan: Track Management_2 Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe and Land Insights

E

0

0.25

1:10,000 0.5

Kilometres

0.75

1

Track Management Proposals PLAN 2

Legend Highway

Proposed Track Management

Main Road

Track to be closed

Other Roads

Track to remain open

Cadastral Boundaries

Fourteen Mile Beach

Mullet Bay

Eighteen Mile Beach

COASTAL RESERVES MANAGEMENT STRATEGY: SHIRE OF RAVENSTHORPE UN IT 1/1 A LVAN STREET, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6929 PHONE: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMA IL: ad min@ landinsights.com.au

Date: 10/01/2011 Plan: Track Management_3 Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe and Land Insights

E

0

0.25

1:10,000 0.5

Kilometres

0.75

1

Track Management Proposals PLAN 3

Legend Highway

Proposed Track Management

Main Road

Track to be closed

Other Roads

Track to remain open

Cadastral Boundaries

Masons Bay

Masons Point

COASTAL RESERVES MANAGEMENT STRATEGY: SHIRE OF RAVENSTHORPE UN IT 1/1 A LVAN STREET, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6929 PHONE: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMA IL: ad min@ landinsights.com.au

Date: 10/01/2011 Plan: Track Management_4 Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe and Land Insights

E

0

0.25

1:10,000 0.5

Kilometres

0.75

1

Track Management Proposals PLAN 4

Legend Highway

Proposed Track Management

Main Road

Track to be closed

Other Roads

Track to remain open

Cadastral Boundaries

Starvation Boat Harbour North Powell Point

Powell Point

COASTAL RESERVES MANAGEMENT STRATEGY: SHIRE OF RAVENSTHORPE UNIT 1/1 ALVAN STREET, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6050 PO BOX 289, MT LAWLEY, WA, 6929 PHONE: (08) 9271 8506 FAX: (08) 6161 2597 EMAIL: admin@landinsights.com.au

Date: 7/10/2011

Plan: Track Management_5 Data: Shire of Ravensthorpe and Land Insights

E

0

0.25

1:10,000 0.5

Kilometres

0.75

1

Track Management Proposals PLAN 5