THE RIP
  • Home
  • News
  • What's on
  • Digital Editions
  • Directory
  • Real Estate
    • Featured Property
  • Gallery

Review calls for reduction in long-term camping

18/4/2022

0 Comments

 
A long-awaited review of Queenscliff’s four Council run caravan parks has recommended sweeping changes to attract more visitors and boost revenue -  including a significant reduction in long-term site permits. 

The Draft Queenscliffe Tourist Parks Management and Operation Review, prepared by by Park Management firm Sustainable Park Solutions, includes 52 separate recommendations aimed at improving sustainability and guest experiences. 

The report calls for improved amenities and reconfiguration of all parks. It also recommends metering of existing long-term sites for water and electricity and cuts to 12-month permits - from 45 to just 16 at Golightly Caravan Park and 78 to 15 at the recreation reserve and Victoria Park. 

Some of the review’s most significant recommendations target the Golightly Park, which it described as being in a “stunning location” but with old and poor amenities. Proposed changes to that park  include new toilets, showers, kitchen, barbecue shelter, fire pit, bike repair station, improved car parking and  boom gates. 

At present only 15 of Golightly's current sites are reserved for casual campers.

“The 12-month permit sites are in many cases in poor condition and the caravans and vans are well over 40 years old and poorly maintained,” the report said. 

Recommendations for the 105-site Recreation Reserve and Victoria Park include a new manager’s office, the removal of two older cabins and installation of five new weatherboard cabins. 

Twelve of the parks’ 105 sites have long-term permits.

For the 98-site Royal Park, the review recommends removal of the portable office, a new amenities block and improved kitchen and barque amenities. The number of existing sites should be reduced to allow for bigger, more uniform sites, it said. 

In the 2018/19 financial year, prior to the pandemic, the parks together generated close to $1.8million before expenses in revenue. But according to the review, the average occupancy, nightly rates and yield of powered sites at all four are well below the Victorian average for tourist parks, chiefly as a result of Council’s inability to use dynamic pricing, seasonal packages and its “over reliance” on 12-month permit holders.

To address those issues it recommends  a higher marketing spend across all parks, better technology to improve booking capabilities and staff efficiencies and the establishment of a separate business unit to run all four. 

The estimated cost of the capital investment outlined in the review is $6.93 million. 

“In summary, the Borough off Queenscliffe under the recommended operational and master plan changes will have doubled their return from the business and also have paid off the capital works at the parks after 12 years of full trading,” the report foreshadowed. 

In response to the review, Council will immediately initiate a new compliance regime for long-term campers. Officers has also been directed to draw on the study to prepare a separate report on preferred operational models.  

“The trigger for this review was really about getting the model right so that we best manage the parks into the future,” said Cr Fleur Hewitt. “At this stage we think it’s best to get the model right before we consider moving forward on wholesale infrastructure changes.” 

The draft review, which cost $45,000 to complete, was compiled following extensive community consultation including an online survey which attracted more than 360 responses. 

“I don’t think the council has the appetitive to borrow large sums of money to invest in the caravan parks,” said Cr Michael Grout.” I think we can improve our compliance and that’s what we’re doing now… we can also make some efficiency gains.”
​
The review can be found on the BoQ website.
0 Comments

New food waste collection service

18/4/2022

0 Comments

 
PictureA new food waste service will be introduced in Queenscliffe from August
A new kerbside food waste collection service will be introduced for Queenscliffe households from August, with food scraps to be included in existing green-lidded bins and regular waste collections to go fortnightly.  

The Food Organics and Garden (FOGO) Kerbside Service is a requirement on all local governments under the Victorian Government’s new Circular Economy Act, and according to Mayor Ross Ebbels, will deliver economic and environment benefits.  

“By composting our food and green waste, we’re avoiding expensive landfill taxes and the greenhouse gases emitted from organic matter when it’s buried in a landfill,” Cr Ebbels said. “I’m excited to start processing our food waste in a way that’s better for the budget, better for the planet and better for our community.”

Households will receive a bench top bin caddy and a larger 240 litre recycling bin to help with the transition. They will also receive detailed information on how to sort waste.

Under the new act, a fourth bin, for glass, will be also be introduced at a later stage.

A recent bin audit showed food waste accounted for almost 40 per cent of residents’ household waste. 
From July 1, the Victorian Government will be increasing food waste at $125.90 per tonne.

“Every tonne of waste we don’t send to landfill is a tonne of waste we don’t have to pay the Victorian Government’s landfill tax on. With this tax increasing every year, these costs will add up for ratepayers if we don’t manage our waste more sustainably,” Cr Ebbels said. “Composting our food waste will be cheaper for our residents over the long term by avoiding these landfill taxes.”

Under the changes: 
  • The new FOGO 240L bin will be collected weekly
  • Kerbside landfill bins (120L) will be collected fortnightly
  • Kerbside co-mingled recyclables (140L) will be collected fortnightly
  • A yet-to-be introduced kerbside glass bin (140L) will be collected once a month
According to Cr Ebbels, the switch follows years of planning and meets obligations contained in the borough’s Climate Emergency Response Plan (CERP). 

“We’ll be sending out lots of information and holding interactive presentations to ensure our residents are supported through the transition.

“I’m looking forward to working with our community in the coming months to make this rollout a success,” he said. 
​
The Council recently joined other G21 councils in signing up to Barwon Water's  Regional  Renewable Organic Network (RRON) project - a new facility capable of collecting and processing organic waste into compost and fertilisers.

0 Comments

Fresh action on Dog Beach erosion

18/4/2022

0 Comments

 
PictureA new round of engagement has begun to resolve Dog Beach erosion concerns
A new round of community consultation is underway to find a solution to erosion concerns at Queenscliff’s Dog Beach. 

The Department of Environment, Water, Land and Planning (DEWLP) held a public listening post at the beach on Sunday 27 March and has launched an online survey as first steps to developing a new Coastal Adaption Plan, in partnership with the Borough of Queenscliffe.

“The plan will help inform the long-term management of coastal hazards along the dune that forms part of the thin piece of land known as ‘The Narrows’,” DEWLP said. 

“Hazards at this site include storm erosion, which causes changes in beach levels and form vertical escarpments in the dune face, as well long-term retreat of the dune and ‘terminal scour’ at the end of the seawall. 

“Sea Level rise is expected to make all of these hazards more severe,” it warned.

Concern has been raised over the scale of erosion to the primary dune at Dog Beach, at the end of the seawall, with Queenscliffe Council late last year calling on the government for urgent action. 

In a final report into erosion at nearby Point Lonsdale front beach, the department said it had installed additional wave monitoring buoys in Port Phillip and was conducting regular drone surveys to assess sand movements and erosion events at both beaches.

That same report scrapped plans for any remedial works at Point Lonsdale, but committed to further action if public safety or assets were considered at risk. 
​
Further details will be made available on the www.engage.vic.gov.au

0 Comments

Tributes flow for Councillor

18/4/2022

0 Comments

 
PictureQueenscliffe Councillor Susan Salter died after a long battle with illness on Wednesday 16 March.
Long serving Queensclife Councillor Susan Salter has been remembered as a devoted community member and leader, following her death on Wednesday 16 March.

The former Mayor succumbed to a year-long battle with cancer.

Leading the tributes, the Borough of Queenscliffe (BoQ) said Cr Salter’s near-decade of service was “marked by a devotion to her community and to the people who live here." Councillors observed one minute’s silence at the March general meeting.

“Renowned for her accessibility, Cr Salter could often be found discussing issues in depth with local residents and confidently supporting their interests on council matters,” a BoQ statement said.

“While her passion for many subjects was remarkable, Cr Salter’s particular interest in trees, gardens and parks saw her lead renewal works on the Borough’s Avenue of Honour and influence a number of other landscaping projects. From the grand old trees she worked to preserve to the newest green shoots of planting she encouraged, Cr Salter’s legacy will be in the natural spaces she nurtured that our community will enjoy for years to come,” it continued. 

Councillor Salter had not long returned from three months of personal leave when she announced her resignation on March 9 – just a week before her death.

A former Bellarine Secondary School teacher and ALP campaign manager, she was first elected to Council in 2012 and served as Mayor for one year from 2017-18.

“As a Councillor and Mayor, Sue was a strong, passionate advocate , a person who worked tirelessly for Queenscliff and its ratepayers,” said Bellarine MP Lisa Neville.

“Personally, for more than 20 years I enjoyed her friendship and her support, including working as my campaign manager.
​
“Queenscliff has lost a true community champion, whose legacy will never be forgotten,” Ms Neville said.

0 Comments

Urgent halt called to Vic Park works

18/4/2022

0 Comments

 
PictureTree removal works art Queenscliff's Victoria Park have been halted by Councillors.
Easter campers have been forced into an eleventh hour accommodation reshuffle after the Borough of Queenscliffe announced an immediate ban on further tree clearing and big rig caravans in Victoria Park.
 
The measures, part of a motion unanimously approved by Councillors at the the March Council meeting, reflect growing community unease at increased camping in Queenscliff’s original botanic gardens and the scale of vegetation removal undertaken in response to damage from last October’s significant storm.

The motion, put forward by Councillor Fleur Hewitt, called for an immediate end to further tree management works and restricted public access to areas that could pose a safety risk. 

It also called for an immediate ban on all future bookings of double-axle or ‘big rig’ caravans on the western side of the park.

“Council acknowledges the concerns raised by the community in relation to Victoria Park and the vegetation loss in the area,” said Cr Hewitt. “In moving this motion, we’re seeking to halt further works so we can better consider alternatives for managing the damaged vegetation and consider options for revegetation. 

“As a council, we’ll also need to look to establish a long term strategy for Victoria Park determining how we can bets protect the core environmental values of the park and set the appropriate nature and extent of camping needs for the future,” she added. 

As a result of the motion, Council officers must now prepare a plan for re-opening closed areas of the park within five months and provide a detailed tree management and planting schedule. 

A Council spokesperson confirmed that as a result of the motion alternative accommodation had to be found for some campers, who had already booked for Easter. 

He also defended the extent of vegetation clearing undertaken to date.

“The major storm in October 2021 inflicted serious damage on a large number of trees throughout the Borough, particularly in Victoria Park. In the weeks following the storm, Council commissioned an independent arborist to examine the health and safety of the trees in Victoria Park,” the spokesperson said.

“This independent arborist made a number of recommendations to trim or remove damaged trees that posed an unacceptable risk to public safety. Council’s subsequent tree works in Victoria Park have been carrying out these safety recommendations. While it is always disappointing to have to remove established trees, the sudden failure of limbs or entire trees can be deadly, and Council prioritises public safety in its tree management practices. 
​
“Following [the] resolution, Council will pause works in Victoria Park and close affected areas to all public access while the scope of works is reassessed. Council is reaccommodating existing guest bookings at other sites wherever possible,” he said. 

Victoria Park is the site of Queenscliff’s original Botanic Gardens, established in 1868 - 17 years after the bigger Geelong Botanic Gardens - with the advice and support Ferdinand Von Mueller, who frequently holidayed in the town. 

As Victoria’s chief botanist, Von Mueller also founded the National Herbarium of Victoria and was first curator of the Melbourne Botanic Gardens.
 
Recent community efforts have been made to return the remaining 1.5 hectares of the original space to a botanic park and limiting any future camping to Christmas and Easter.  

"Victoria Park is one of three of the large public parks in Queenscliffe and it’s’ really important that we get the tree management and planting as well as the vegetation projections right if we continue to have public enjoyment of this area as well as seasonal camping in the park,” said Cr Michael Grout. 

​The motion called on Council to:

Cease the post-storm tree management program
Restrict all public access to the closed areas
Ensure all future booking that no double-axle or big rigs
Ensure a handout is given to all site users in relation to protecting vegetation
Prepare a tree management and planting schedule for the whole of Victoria Park within five months

The Borough said its existing tree management plan already included new plantings within Victoria Park.
​

0 Comments

New era begins for surf club

3/2/2022

0 Comments

 
Picture
Members and dignatories gathered on December 11 for the official opening of the POINT LONSDALE Surf Life Saving Club
After more than a decade of lobbying and fundraising - and another 18 months of covid-delayed construction - the Point Lonsdale Surf Life Saving Club’s (PLSLSC) new $5.7 million clubhouse is finally open, just in time for what is expected to be a busy summer for life savers.

Dignitaries from all sides of politics, including Police Minister and Bellarine MP Lisa Neville, Federal Senator Sarah Henderson, Corangamite MP Libby Coker and Geelong, Queenscliffe and Melbourne Mayors - Stephanie Asher, Ross Ebbels and Sally Capp - participated in a smoking ceremony and official ribbon cutting event on Saturday December 11.

Club president Charlie Pitney told the gathering the new facility marked a new era for the club, in building on its emergency response capacity and in becoming more representative of the broader community.

“It’s going to be a great building for us to train new life savers, to bring in more community organisations to use this facility,” he said. “This is going to be a facility that helps us as a club grow, that helps us to keep the community safe on the beaches.”

Planning to replace to ageing K.D. Allen clubhouse commenced in 2005 with the formation of a building committee. That was followed by an exhaustive search for a potential new site.

The striking two storey facility was funded by all tiers of government, with the State contributing $2.25 million, the Commonwealth $1.25 million and the Borough of Queenscliffe handing over land for the development on a $1 peppercorn lease.

It was designed by leading architects Jackson Clement Burrows and built by local building firm Lyons Constructions.

“It has been a mammoth effort,” said Ms Neville, who played a key role in brokering the land deal.  

“For almost 75 years… you’ve been servicing this coastline and it is one of the most dangerous coastlines in the state. You’ve played a really critical role for opening u this coastline to so many Victorians to enjoy.

“And it’s never been so important, this year again we’ve seen record deaths in our waterways – the highest we’ve had in two decades,” she said. “What you do absolutely matters.”

The biggest thank you, however, was to the community which donated a staggering $2.25 million towards the building’s construction.

“To the Point Lonsdale and Queenscliff communities, I have never worked on a campaign where more people gave us money so quickly and in the bank, it has been amazing,” said capital campaign committee chair Kirsten MacLeod.

“They say it takes a village to raise a child and I can tell you it takes a village to give their money to build a beautiful new surf club that hopefully will contribute to raising a lot of children.”

Describing the PLSLSC as the “heart and soul” of the Point Lonsdale community, Senator Henderson said the new facility would build on its legacy of saving lives.

“It is a truly magnificent building and it is here because you serve a very important purpose in our community, principally, you’re all about saving lives.
​
“Not only are you the heart and soul of this community in so many ways, you have done the most incredible job to keep our beaches safe for locals and for thousands of visitors every year,” she said.
​
0 Comments

Golf club vision now a reality

3/2/2022

0 Comments

 
Picture
Kerleys Coastal Director Damian Cayzer auctioned the final two lost of the Lonsdale Golf Club estate on January 15.
The financial future of the Lonsdale Links golf club has been secured following the sale of the final two lots of land in its ambitious course redevelopment project.

The residential blocks were auctioned by Kerleys Coastal Real Estate on Saturday January 15 for $1.24 million and $1.282 million – record prices for the 100-lot Lonsdale Shores estate and a far cry from the $360,000 - $550,000 paid when the first 12 blocks went on sale in Gill Road five years earlier.

Those initial blocks were offered up with sweeteners including free stamp duty and 10-year gold club membership to get them moving in a flat market.

Lonsdale Links President John Christophersen said the final sales provide a huge sigh of relief for the club.
“It was in 2000 that the original concept of the redevelopment was first floated. At that time it was to drought-proof the course that the original concept was contemplated. And then it grew into redevelopment,” he said.

The club faced significant planning hurdles and costs before approvals were finally granted and works began on a re-alignment of the course and construction of a new clubhouse.

“And of course land sales were initially flat but it’s just been a fantastic finish as we all know. For the past 12 months real estate has taken off and it’s come at the right time,” said Mr Christophersen.

“What it’s done for us, and it was always the plan with the whole redevelopment, is to ensure our viability going forward.

“We are now in a position to establish a future fund and that will be in perpetuity, so it won’t be able to be touched but the club will be able to access the earnings from those investments to support any future capital needs they have.
​
“And we recognise that we’re very fortunate to be in this position because we all know that for member-based clubs, whether it be a golf club, bowls club or football club, it’s never easy running member-based clubs and in these pandemic times, it’s even tougher,” Mr Christophersen said.
0 Comments

Ferry terminal reaches new heights

2/2/2022

0 Comments

 
Picture
43 trucks were needed to supply cement for the first floor of the new Queenscliff ferry terminal
The arrival of 43 trucks carrying 300 cubic metres of cement for the first floor slab has signalled a major milestone for Queenscliff’s $15.9 million ferry terminal redevelopment. 

Politicians from all tiers of government - including Federal Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Paul Fletcher and Victorian Regional Development Minister Mary-Anne Thomas -  gathered on site on Tuesday 25 January to review the project's progress. 

The tour was in lieu of an official sod turning, cancelled late last year due to COVID-19. 

The upgrade is part of the $382.48 million Geelong City Deal - a commitment between the Commonwealth, State and City of Greater Geelong to revitalise the local economy. 

“The upgrades will provide significant improvements to the ferry services at this major tourism gateway for Geelong and the Great Ocean Road and will drive growth in the local visitor economy by strengthening this region as a leading tourism destination,” said Mr Fletcher. 

Searoad Ferries is Australia’s busiest vehicle ferry service with over 8,200 crossings between Queenscliff and Sorrento annually and carrying over 950,000 passengers.

It is anticipated that number will grow to one million passengers by 2023, injecting as much as $125 million into local economies.

“We are very excited to be able to offer a world class facility that will bring significant benefits to ferry customers and visitors alike, including safer access for pedestrians, high quality experiences and improved disability access,” said CEO Matt McDonald.
​
“The terminal will deliver up to 85 new jobs in the construction phase and an additional 25 new ongoing jobs within the ferry operations.”
0 Comments

Government moves to fast-track DAL

2/2/2022

0 Comments

 
Picture
An Independent Standing Committee has been establishing to fast-track the Bellarine Distinctive Area and Landscape plan
An Independent Standing Committee will be appointed to review a key planning policy for the Bellarine Peninsula, following pressure from interest groups to finalise protections against over-development as quickly as possible. 

The State Government declared the Bellarine Peninsula a ‘distinctive area and landscape’ (DAL) in 2019, recognising the threats urban development on the local coastal environment, unique green spaces, local producers and lifestyle. 

That declaration resulted in a draft Statement of Planning Policy for the area being developed, to ensure identified significant landscapes, environmental and cultural values were protected. 

Supporters of the policy however have expressed concern the government has not moved quickly enough to finalise it leaving the region open to the threat of inappropriate development. 

Planning Minister Richard Wynne said referring the draft DAL to a standing committee would fast-track the process. 

“This process is the best way to deliver a thorough investigation for this important area − ensuring the character of the Bellarine Peninsula is preserved while taking the views of the community into account,” Mr Wynne said.

“I want to make sure the character of the Bellarine Peninsula is protected as part of the Andrews Labor Government’s work to preserve our distinctive areas and landscapes.”

The draft policy was developed in collaboration with the Wadawurrung, the Borough of Queenscliffe, the City of Greater Geelong and following extensive consultation with community and industry. 

Once finalised, it will guide the future use, development and management of land in the Bellarine Peninsula declared area over the next 50 years. 

While many have welcomed the plan, some local businesses fear it will limit growth and cost thousands of jobs. Last year a consortium of 13 business owners wrote to the government asking it to reconsider the DAL’s proposed regulations. 

the Independent Standing Committee will only consider submissions made to the panel’s earlier work on settlement boundaries and will undertake its review as a matter of urgency, Mr Wynne said.
​
“Delivering the final Statement to Planning Policy for Bellarine is a priority, and we will be acting with urgency to finalise it by mid-year.”
0 Comments

Businesses dreaming of a bright Christmas

27/10/2021

0 Comments

 
Picture
Queenscliff and Point Lonsdale main streets will be decked out with new decorations, as part of plans to bring back the spirit of Christmas.

After being criticised last year for missing the mark with its decorations, the Borough of Queenscliffe has splurged on new festive flags, wreaths and Christmas trees to add colour to the twin towns.

And the Lighting of the Christmas tree – held last year without crowds - is also in for a shake up, with plans to flick the switch from a community celebration in the heart of the Point Lonsdale village.

Mayor Ross Ebbels said Council had been working with traders and schools to reinvigorate the annual event with additional activities and in a way that supported local business.

“Obviously the first question is can you see the Christmas tree from the main street and yes, you can, so the aim would be to have a big community celebration and the lights would be lit remotely from there,” he said.

Mayor Ross Ebbels said Council would use $200,000 ,allocated to it under the latest round of the Victorian Government’s COVIDSafe Outdoor Activation Fund, to reactivate outdoor dining and support entertainment in the heart of both towns.

“We haven’t decided what it will look like but we’ve got some more outdoor dining opportunities and activitations coming as well so that locals and visitors can enjoy the outdoors and what we love about the borough,” he said.

Business owners in both towns have been working up ideas behind the scenes to bring life back to both CBDs after two challenging years of lockdowns and restrictions.

Point Lonsdale’s wish list includes a twilight events program incorporating live music, al fresco dining and street picnics. There would be more seating, tables and umbrellas, street stalls, trees filled with fairy lights in the adjacent park and shop fronts would be lit up like Myer Christmas windows.

“Covid’s been a blow but we’ve seen all the shops here taken over by new and energised people and I think this plan is just building on that energy. There’s a fresh commitment to come together as traders,” said Trish Berry, owner of Noble Rot wine bar.
​
“This time last year there were four empty shops – one fifth of the shops – and then there’s been four new can do people come in and really really different shops. The offerings are so typical of here,” added Chris Dineen, who together with wife Sally Denehy owns specialty shop La Monique.
0 Comments

Australia Day no more

30/8/2021

0 Comments

 
Picture
Queenscliffe's annual Australia Day ceremony will be scrapped and the Australia Day Awards program will renamed the Community Service Awards,  following a review of the existing awards policy and last year’s event.

All but one Councillor voted at the August meeting in favour of the shift away from a January 26 event, which was described as a “more inclusive” outcome for the community. Councillor Donnie Grigau abstained. 

“As part of the review of the policy and the Australia Day event, Council officers noted that over the past few years there had been a shift in the engagement and participation,” said Economic and Community Development Program Leader Shannon Maloney. 

“Whilst seen as a valuable recognition program, feedback received from stakeholders revealed a desire to move the community awards to another date which may be seen as more inclusive to the entire community and inspire increased participation in the acknowledgment and celebrations of service.”

Mrs Maloney said under the changes, the focus of awards would shift to a celebration of volunteerism and awards would be presented at the Borough’s annual Volunteer Week event. 

“Importantly, the revised policy shifts the focus to community service in general rather than linking it specifically to Australia Day,” she said.

The change means the Borough will no longer host a celebration and Flag Raising ceremony on January 26. Council will continue to hold citizenship ceremonies on the day on request, a spokesperson said. 

The decision reflects growing unease within the broader community about celebrations on Australia Day and an increased push for the date to be changed.

Councillor Fleur Hewitt applauded the decision; “I think it’s really great that we’re moving this to Volunteers Week, given the awards are a recognition of the wonderful contributions of service that members of our community make to the borough.”


0 Comments

No room for social housing - BoQ concedes

15/7/2021

0 Comments

 
The Borough of Queenscliffe has committed to playing its part in addressing increasing  homelessness and rental stress across the region, through the release of its first draft Social Housing Plan. 

However, it has acknowledged that with limited land options available,  there is little it can do to provide affordable housing within its own municipality. 

Queenscliffe CEO Martin Gill said the borough had been working with other G21 councils for several months to consider ways of boosting social housing options across the greater Geelong region. 

The plan, currently on exhibition, details a number of advocacy options, he said. 

“It’s given me some insight into the region but also our local community,” Mr Gill said. “In a community that is generally well looked after and generally in a pretty stable position, there is still some issues around social housing. 

“If you then extrapolate that to across the region, there are some significant issues around social housing and while our role may not be substantial in this, I think giving our voice to the issue and supporting the other councils as they pursue building opportunities and work on Housing Victoria plans to provide social housing helps with the advocacy, but also helps us recognise that we’re never far away from problems,” Mr Gill said.  

“While we won’t actually build any houses, we’re conscious that we need to do work with the community as to where that housing will potentially go.”

The plan’s release comes amid an unprecedented spike in housing prices in Geelong and along the coast, putting home ownership out of the reach of many and resulting in hefty rent increases. in some areas.

The current median house price in the Borough sits at around $1 million and none of the new properties that have been constructed in recent years would fall into the category of affordable housing, according to the plan. 

It described the high cost of housing in the Queenscliffe as a “critical barrier” to affordability, with median weekly rental costs among the highest in the region.

Council figures show upwards of 70 of the municipality's 1,234 households are living on very modest income and experiencing rental stress. At present, however, there are only 11 social housing properties within the municipality - less than one per cent of all housing - with an unmet demand for up to 47 more. 

In Geelong, an estimated 7,200 households who urgently need social housing with around 6,400 paying more than 30 per cent of their income on rent. 

The State Government's Big Housing Build allocates $5.3 billion for affordable housing, with 25 per cent to be spent in regional Victoria. In addition, Homes Victoria will provide a guarateed spend in the G21 region including: 

City of Greater Geelong - $180 million
Surf Coast Shire - $20 million
Golden Plains Shire - $15 million 

An allocation for the Borough of Queenscliffe has not been specified.
​
The draft Social Housing Plan can be viewed on the BoQ website.
0 Comments

Service station to go under townhouse development plan

14/7/2021

0 Comments

 
Picture
An artist impression of a proposed 12 apartment development at 200-202 Point Lonsdale Road
Point Lonsdale’s only petrol station will make way for a three-level residential development incorporating 12 apartments and four shops, under a planning application lodged with the Borough of Queenscliffe.

The proposal will dramatically transform the 2465m2 site on the corner of Point Lonsdale and Lawrence roads, currently home to the BP service station, and according to the applicants - Sincock Planning Pty Ltd and David McDonald Builders - would address demand for housing in the town. 

The proposed $3.5 million development, designed by SPL Architects, is for “three distinct building forms,” fronting Point Lonsdale Road, and a basement car park comprising 24 parking spaces.

Five two-bedroom dwellings would sit above the shops. A further seven two-level, three-bedroom townhouses will be located at the rear of the property - each less than 8.5 metres high and will featuring roof-top gardens.

Retail spaces will be 115m2 in size, with pedestrian access from Point Lonsdale Road. 

A carpark at the front of the building will provide an additional 13 spaces for commercial visitors.

The land is currently zoned for mixed use and is subject to a design and development overlay aimed at protecting significant Port Phillip and Swan Bay views, local environment and neighbourhood character.

According to the application, the proposal was “consistent with the zone, overlay and policy framework of the planning scheme,” and would meet a demand for “higher density and diversity housing “in the location.

“[It] is consistent with the strategic outcomes sought by the Queenscliffe Planning Scheme, and the proposal provides for a well-designed mixed-use development that will respect and complement the coastal character of the town whilst providing a medium density development and greater housing choice for residents,” it said.
​
“This site is the only mixed-use zone in the municipality and the desire to provide a high-quality form of housing and appropriate density without under developing the land has been achieved. The site was nominated for mixed-use development given its two street abuttals and convenient access to the beach, other shops and services and public bus transport within the township.
​
0 Comments

$4.5 million marine centre upgrade

3/5/2021

0 Comments

 
Picture
The Queenscliff Marine Science Research Centre will undergo a $4.5 million redevelopment, as part of its partnership with Deakin University
Queenscliff’s Marine Science Research Centre will undergo a $4.5 million redevelopment, as part of a trio of projects worth $22.1 million aimed at putting Deakin University at the forefront of water and aquaculture research.

The redevelopment will include new laboratories, teaching facilities and a high-speed speed optic fibre network for the community. 

According to Higher Education Minister Gayle Tierney, the investment will establish Queenscliff as the centre for excellence for temperate water marine science research and education in southern Australia. 

The Government has contributed $6 million to Deakin for the three projects, which also include a new $9.8 million state-of-the-art AcquaFI Hub innovation centre to explore animal nutrition and to support the expansion of fish and seafood farming and a $7.8 million upgrade to the university’s Waurn Ponds campus. 

“These exciting projects will push the boundaries of water science research but also provide great learning and job opportunities for Victorians” Ms Tierney said.  

Melbourne-based Root Partnerships will oversee construction, which will begin this year and finish mid-2022.

The projects would provide new opportunities for staff, students and traditional owners and create scholarships opportunities - 50 percent of which will be offered to women. 

“These projects are an extension of our investment in regional Victoria and commitment to sustainability and will also enhance our existing research capabilities,” said Deakin Vice-Chancellor Professor Iain Martin. 
​
Deakin established a formal presence with the MSRC under a 2017 agreement.
0 Comments

P1 huts to stay for now

3/5/2021

0 Comments

 
Picture
The dilapidated P1 huts on the Point Lonsdale Lighthouse Reserve will be mothballed until Queenscliffe Council can decide what to do with them.
Four dilapidated former World War II huts will stay on the Point Lonsdale Lighthouse Reserve for the foreseeable future, following a new Council decision to “mothball” them. 

Borough of Queenscliffe CEO Martin Gill revealed Council had been unable to meet redevelopment  milestones set out by Regional Development Victoria (RDV) as part of a $600,000 funding agreement, because of delays in obtaining heritage, coastal and cultural planning approvals. 

The redevelopment was to have included removal of all but one of the huts. Council will now seek to have project timelines re-adjusted. 
 
“The timing of that [RDV] agreement required some milestones to be met early this year. Those milestones cannot be met due primarily to the approvals processes that we were going through and some advice from the cultural heritage management plan work that there are parts of the site that should not be disturbed for sub-surface testing,” Mr Gill told the April Council meeting. 

“In receiving that information, Council officers realised that not only did we need to think about the milestones, but we should also have a think about how we amend the activities that are part of that grant agreement.

“We’re recommending a change to the the grant agreement that would include the P1 huts as a project - to record those, remove asbestos and… for want of a better term, to mothball them until we can work out what the future of those should be,” Mr Gill said. 

Under the redevelopment plan approved in January 2019, all but MacDonalds Hall - the biggest of the four - was to be removed. The proposal also included paths, landscaping, a ship spotting platform, barbecue amenities. 

However, a subsequent Heritage Victoria decision to formally  recognise the site’s heritage and cultural assets -  renaming it the Point Lonsdale Maritime and Defence Precinct - committed the Council to having to undertake extensive planning investigations before any works could commence. 

As a result of the missed milestones, Councillors unanimously voted to amend the current plan.  

Cr Susan Salter, who was part of the 2019 Council that approved the huts’ removal, described the process as long and convoluted.

“The Victorian Government heritage listing extends all the way up to Winterley Road, so it is a much larger space than it used to be and of course in passing this, we are rescinding the motion of 2019… we’re tidying up quite a lot of work within our own historical records I guess.”

The Federal Government is still considering an application for the reserve to also be included on the National Heritage List - a move that would add even further protections from development. 

“I think it’s really important at this stage that we improve this precinct with the allocated funding, providing RDV does agree to the proposed redirection for some of the activities,” said Cr Michael Grout. “But in particular, I think we really do need to better secure and preserve the heritage of the P1 huts so that the unsightly temporary fencing can be removed.”

The State Government, through RDV, has committed $500,000 to the redevelopment.  A Council spokesperson said discussions were underway with RDV to vary the grant agreement. 

"Interim reserve works would include removing asbestos from the huts, ensuring they are structurally sound and re-cladding them in a material similar to the original, he said. 

The P1-style huts were erected as part of a Defence camp in the early 1940’s. They were later taken over by the Toc H benevolent group to provide holiday accommodation and activities for children of war veterans.
​
Council erected fencing around the buildings in March 2017, after a fifth hut was destroyed in an arson attack and to prevent gatherings of young people.
0 Comments
<<Previous

    THE RIP NEWS BLOG

    Local news, sport and lifestyle stories. If you would like to submit a story please contact Carmel Christensen.

    Categories

    All
    Local Lifestyle
    Local News
    Local Sport

    Archives

    April 2022
    February 2022
    November 2021
    October 2021
    August 2021
    July 2021
    June 2021
    May 2021
    February 2021
    January 2021
    November 2020
    October 2020
    August 2020
    June 2020
    May 2020
    April 2020
    January 2020
    November 2019
    October 2019
    September 2019
    July 2019
    February 2019
    January 2019
    October 2018
    September 2018
    August 2018
    July 2018
    February 2018
    December 2017
    November 2017
    October 2017
    September 2017
    August 2017
    July 2017
    June 2017
    May 2017
    April 2017
    March 2017
    February 2017
    January 2017
    December 2016
    November 2016
    October 2016
    September 2016
    August 2016
    July 2016
    June 2016
    May 2016
    April 2016
    March 2016
    February 2016
    January 2016
    December 2015
    November 2015
    October 2015

THERIP.COM.AU  
​news   |   events  |   lifestyle   |   Queenscliff   |   Point Lonsdale

"We would love you to share your stories,  tell us what you think about our new website  or perhaps you would  like to take advantage of our excellent advertising rates. Please note views expressed are not necessarily those of the editor.  

Contact us

The Editor:
Carmel Christensen 
51 Mercer St
Queenscliff VIC 3225

Ph: (03) 5258 4131
​Email:  catilm@bigpond.net.au
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RipRumour
Website design by Kylie Crane  © 2015
  • Home
  • News
  • What's on
  • Digital Editions
  • Directory
  • Real Estate
    • Featured Property
  • Gallery