Residents have been urged to embrace new pop-up eating zones, installed across the municipality to help local eateries recover from the pandemic. 

Twelve of the ‘skiplets’ will be located in parking spaces in Queenscliff and Point Lonsdale - including busy Hesse Street and Point Lonsdale Road retail precincts - for the next three months. 

The modified skip bins, produced in Jan Juc, are fitted out with recycled timber flooring and benches and provide additional seating for 10 patrons.  

“Some businesses have done well during COVID and some haven’t, and we don’t know what the next three months will bring when the Jobkeeper program ends and people leave after the summer holidays” said Mayor Ross Ebbels.

“We want to make sure businesses are sustainable and can get through the next few months, and these skiplets can help with that. A lot of them are playing catch up now and we need them to be really busy this summer period. 

“There’ll be some people who say they want their car parks back and there will be some who really like the skiplets,... I just ask everyone to show some patience.

"We might find that after three months, a bit like Geelong where they were trailed for five months five years ago, that not only traders but customers also want them to stay,” he said.   

The Borough of Queenscliffe has fast-tracked the initiative after receiving $250,000 to progress outdoor dining, under a State Government initiative aimed at assisting businesses hard hit by COVID-19.

The first of the skiplets was installed outside the Queenscliff General Store. 

“It has some sort of novelty value I think and is going to be a really fun little space and something bit different for people,” said business owner Garreth Jones.   

The cafe managed to trade through the pandemic, despite being forced to remove tables and chairs.
“It was a bit scary there for a little while, it was unchartered waters. 
​
“I have to say you’re only as good as your customers and ours were really supportive,” Mr Jones said.  
​

Unsightly power poles have been removed from the South end of Queenscliff’s Hesse Street, as part of a $1.5 million project to beautify the sector. 

The project, jointly funded under the Victorian Government’s Fixing Country Roads and the Commonwealth’s Roads to Recovery programs, is nearing completion. 

It includes underfunding of power lines to improve beach views, the creation of 16 extra parking spaces, improved street lighting, drainage, re-surphacing and tree planting.   
​
“Hesse Street South now looks modern and bright at both day and night, and with our new outdoor dining Skiplets being added further up the road for expanded hospitality options, there’s no better place to spend your summer than in the Borough of Queenscliffe, said Mayor Ross Ebbels.

Public consultation has opened on what is being described as one of the Borough of Queenscliffe’s most important documents. 

The new Coastal and Marine Management Plan (CMMP) will guide decision-making on almost all matters related to foreshore and coastal planning.

The existing document has not been updated since 2006.

Mayor Ross Ebbels said the new plan would go the heart of everything residents valued about living in Queenscliffe and would ensure coastline assets were safeguarded for future generations. 

“For so much of what we’ll do in the the future, we need to have this plan in place.  

“I know how much of a privilege it is to have such world-class coastlines on our door step – from the simple pleasures of walking your dog on the beach, to surfing at Back Beach,” Cr Ebbels said.

“I also know how much our community values these landscapes, which is why I’m calling on anyone who utilises our coasts to provide input into our Coastal and Marine Management Plan.”

The Council manages and maintains numerous bayside and ocean reserves and assets including the Queenscliff and Point Lonsdale Lighthouse reserves. It is thought to be the highest proportion of land in foreshore reserves in any municipality in Victoria. 

The new  CMMP, to developed in line with requirements of the Marine and Coastal Act 2018, will provide a blueprint on how these areas will be managed into the future. 

Consultation opens with the Borough hosting an interactive webinar at 6:00pm on Thursday 14 January, where residents and ratepayers can ask questions of the planning team.

An online survey is available to be completed by navigating to queenscliffe.vic.gov.au/coasts, where
visitors can also learn more information and read a detailed issues paper.
​
Consultation on the plan closes at 11:59pm on Sunday 31 January.
​

Three first-time councillors will join two returning to form the Borough of Queenscliffe’s new five-member Council. 

Incumbent Mayor Ross Ebbels was the leading vote-getter, polling 752 of first preferences. Queenscliff businessman Donnie Grigau was second elected, with 449 votes, followed by Michael Grout (434), Fleur Hewitt (363) and incumbent Councillor Susan Salter (331). 

3,609 of the 4,143 enrolled voters participated in the postal election - 151 were informal. 

“I’d like to give a warm welcome to the new Councillors, as well as those who are returning,” said BoQ CEO Martin Gill. “I’m looking forward to working closely with the new Council as we navigate the impacts of the pandemic, implement the new Local Government Act, and continue to progress a number of important projects.” 

Eleven candidates contested the election.  The Victorian Electoral Commission announced the final results on Wednesday November 4, 2020. 

A full breakdown of results can be found at: https://www.vec.vic.gov.au/results/2020-council-election-results/queenscliffe-borough-council

Poppies could be placed at the local graves of deceased service men and women on Remembrance Day, as part of tribute proposed by the Queenscliffe RSL. 

Spokesperson Graham Christie said the November 11 initiative would recognise the Queenscliff Cemetery as a key military site, and afford respect to the fallen within its grounds. 

Mr Christie is urging relatives to identify and nominate the graves of those who served, dating back more than a century, to ensure they are recognised with a poppy tribute.  

“The thought being, that should the national day be restricted under the COVID19 guidelines - in line with the ANZAC day and Vietnam Veterans Day services in 2020 - our RSL Sub-Branch could ceremoniously place a poppy at each of the historical military grave sites in this cemetery, as a tangible remembrance to all local heroes of the past,” Mr Christie said.

“These cared-for sites include many of our famous, including Violet Duddy, Sir Thomas and Dame Vera Deakin White… together with many Boer War fort soldiers [and] many other such heroes as Captain Colin Springall.”

As part of the initiative, poppies would be placed by relatives at graves in the week leading up to remembrance Day, allowing them to plan ahead. 

The tribute would remain in place permanently, and the graves would eventually be mapped by the Geelong Cemetery Trust.

“Our prestigious Avenue of Honour no longer displays the actual details of the soldier or nurse who were lost in war, died of wounds in the hospitals… and/or those who died on their return to their homeland,” Mr Christie said. “The grandeur of these Monterey Cypress trees remains but the identity of each of the fallen has been extinguished over time.

“It should be noted that many WW1 Queenscliff Lads who perished in the Great War are in the beautiful cemeteries of France and Belgium, but those who returned are most probably in this lovely garden area – but not known.

“A Poppy at each site would be rated a most popular activity by the entire Community.”

Raised in Queenscliff, Ms Duddy served on the frontline at Gallipoli. Her father was also Secretary of our First RSL Sub-Branch Committee in 1919.

Sir Thomas was a First World War pilot, prisoner or war and later Federal politician. Dame Vera, the daughter of Prime Minister Alfred Deakin, was appointed an Officer of the British Empire for her work with the Red Cross during the First World War, while Captain Springall manned pilot boats through Port Phillip Heads.
​
“I am asking that our community consider such a memorial process, that I believe would become quite remarkable… irrespective if we are even permitted to hold a normal commemorative service,” said Mr Christie. 

Relatives wanting to participate in the project can contact Mr Christie at:  
ryandale31@bigpond.com or by phoning 0418 521579.

DONNIE GRIGAU
I have lived in Queenscliff for many years and, together with my husband Andrew, run the popular Shelter Shed restaurant in Hese Street.
Working closely with residents and visitors, and being involved with and supporting several clubs, charities and associations has allowed me to gain an insight into what we value most about our special part of the Bellarine Peninsula. 
My priorities will be firstly, to ensure the Council preserves these key social, economic and environmental values, and secondly, to empower the community to have a greater say in policy in policy development and the management of sporting, campaign and foreshore areas. 
My agenda is inclusive, ambitious, optimistic yet achievable, and some of the outcomes I’d like to accomplish are: 
Ensuring the Council remains viable through sound budget management while operating within the rate cap. Like any business, the Borough must provide good quality, value-for-money services which meet the needs of ratepayers ad residents. 
Ensuring new projects are only supported which reflect community values, and are based on a sound business case or demonstrable social need, such as the Point Lonsdale Surf Life Saving Club beach base. 
Incorporating environmentally-friendly practices into Council service delivery and greater advocacy of strategies to improve sustainability locally. 
Completing strategies and policies which maintain and protect the Borough’s distinctive character, such as the Coastal Management Plan, Heritage Review, Significant Tree Register and the appropriate amendment to the planning scheme to reflect these values. 
Preserving and promoting the Borough’s extraordinary military, maritime and architectural built heritage as a year-round tourism drawcard which supports local businesses. We need an agreement with the Commonwealth on Fort Queenscliff’s future which respects heritage while revitalising the site. We need more walking and improved cycling trails for health and encouraging visitors to move between Queenscliff and Point Lonsdale. 

*Edited

ROSS EBBELS
​I first moved to The Borough nearly 40 years ago when I started my hospitality career. I am married with two girls who attended Queenscliff Kindergarten and Queenscliff Primary and we have always been keen participants in community life, including being Board Member, Inaugural Chairman and Life Member of The Queenscliff Music Festival. 
Living and working most of my life in The Borough of Queenscliffe I want to continue to contribute to our community.
Why am I standing again?
I am standing again as I still have a lot to contribute to this great Borough. In this last term of council, I was elected the Mayor of The Borough of Queenscliffe. Although as it turned out not to be the year any of us thought, I have been able to connect closer with our community and would love the opportunity to again represent The Borough of Queenscliffe as an elected Councillor.
If re-elected as your Councillor I Will:
Continue to work hard, Engage, and Listen to our community and keep The Borough great and the envy of other municipalities
Continue to support our small business operators
Establish a significant tree register for the Borough
Continue council listening posts – post Covid-19
Remember that small things do matter to our residents
Ensure the Borough remains independent and financially viable
Continue monthly meetings with our community and business associations
Continue to be available to all our residents
Advocate for an upgrade to the existing skate park and create a new and exciting bike track for our youth
Ensure Council completes its current major projects before taking on any new one’s
Protect our pristine environment from the effects of Climate Change
Continue to provide stability and leadership during these difficult times.
I would like to thank all the residents in The Borough who have made contact with me over the past years as a councillor and as your Mayor. We live in such a beautiful and safe part of the world and with your help we can keep it that way.

FLEUR HEWITT
​Point Lonsdale-based Fleur Hewitt is an experienced lawyer. As a mother of two young girls, she is passionate about shaping a sustainable and bright future for residents of the Borough.
“I am excited to join the campaign trail and look forward to engaging further with our community on issues that really matter to the Borough,” she said.
“More action is needed than ever to respond to the twin crises of climate change and COVID-19. We are in the midst of a climate emergency; our beaches are eroding and we are vulnerable to rising sea levels. We’ve done a great job staying healthy in this pandemic, but we have not been immune to its economic impact.”
Key initiatives include:
• Installing electric vehicle charging stations in public spaces, which will not only encourage a local switch to electric vehicles, but also environmentally-friendly tourism;
• Reducing red tape for businesses, supporting increased outdoor dining and assisting with COVID safe plans;
• Improving and building new footpaths, bike tracks and safe crossings, refurbishing the skate park and establishing a hub for playgroups and a toy library
As a new voice for the community, particularly for young families, I will bring to the role extensive legal experience in all areas of real estate, having acted for both private and public sector clients.

ISABELLE TOLHURST

My husband Woody and I have decided to raise our family in the Borough of Queenscliffe, because my connection to this place runs deep -- I am a direct descendant of Henry Charles Dod, who established the first post office and bank in Queenscliff, and I attended Queenscliff kindergarten as a child. My family and I have been community members for more than 30 years. 
We live here because we love this place. We want our children to enjoy what we have - the waves crashing along the Point Lonsdale esplanade; the warbling magpies (who have a knack for remembering human faces, so be sure to keep them on side); a glittering Queenscliff harbour.
In loving this place, we also embrace its stories. I have worked as a journalist for over 10 years, including overseas in Jakarta and Copenhagen, and know the immense power of stories. They are great equalisers, for everyone has a story, and it is through stories that we learn about far away places, long buried secrets, and we come to understand each other and what makes us collectively human.
But COVID threatens our humanity, and all that makes this community great. Yet now is no time for isolationism or silence. The pandemic has reinforced that local people, places and stories are everything. Through them, we remain resilient to this great challenge of our time.
In October, I will run as a candidate in the Borough of Queenscliffe local government elections to represent this historic community and be a strong advocate for community consultation. I will listen, and I will act on the stories of this community. 
Stories - even those we discover late or don’t want to hear - are our identity. They can preserve history, upend and correct it, and inform the future. Stories are what make this community great, and the stories we tell each other, our children and those that visit this beautiful Borough, will help us survive COVID and beyond.
Offer your story up, and open your ears to the stories of others. You will be amazed at what you find.
​

MICHAEL GROUT

COVID19 is dominating our lives, and climate change looms large. The current challenge is to stay healthy and solvent as we navigate these issues so we continue to enjoy Point Lonsdale and Queenscliff.  We can meet these challenges if we work together, and I believe I can facilitate that. So I am a new candidate at the next local election, and I am standing for our community and the environment:

• Maintaining a financially viable independent Borough. We have a small rate base supplemented with government grants and caravan park revenue, but we have relatively few roads and infrastructure to maintain. We are viable when we keep rate increases low, improve our planning and resourcing, involve our community more effectively, manage assets and debt frugally and minimize spending on consultants.
• Uniting the community and Council to act on climate change. We should embrace renewable energy, be more energy efficient, mitigate erosion and storm damage, plant more, manage bush fire risk, better process waste and water, and switch to electric vehicles.
• Supporting businesses create a diverse and prosperous local economy. We should shop locally, and creatively promote our natural/heritage/hospitality assets, and our cultural events. We can improve collaboration with our region and the telecommunications that enable more of us to develop business.
• Better protecting our wonderful environment. We can do better maintaining our diverse coastal landscapes, parks and streetscapes through better education, management and resourcing. 
• Caring for our community wellbeing. Provide support programs for those who need it most, in particular older people, those with disabilities and the very young. Continue to deliver effective support to our community organizations including sporting groups, art groups, older citizens, the young and neighbourhood house.
• Protecting and promoting our diverse cultural and built heritage. Let’s celebrate the Aboriginal heritage of our area. We also have a valuable legacy of architecture to look after, including two lighthouse areas. I support new development that complements the characters of Point Lonsdale and Queenscliff.

I am keen to be part of a more open and engaging Council. When our community collaborates with our Council in common purpose we reboot trust, and we create a better Borough.

ZELDA WALTERS

I have been a permanent resident of Queenscliff for six years but have been coming down to stay in both Point Lonsdale and Queenscliff for around 30 years.
My background is in public relations, marketing and communication and I have a qualification in business administration.
Since living here I have become concerned at the Council’s lack of relevant community consultation.  I do not believe residents issues have been listened to or addressed well.
For example, over the last few years Council has undertaken numerous costly and repetitive surveys (eg improvements to Hesse Street) to gain insight into residents and visitors thoughts on the Borough.  These surveys don’t seem to have led to relevant changes or improvements –  there is a lack of follow through action by Council and they are a waste of ratepayer money.
As a result I believe many residents have become disillusioned with the Council and Councillors – the Borough has stagnated. Residents require action, not just talk.
There are some very serious challenges ahead of us, which Council needs to address.
It’s time for Council to look to the future, address these challenges (such as climate change, beach erosion, financial management, state of dune and foreshore management) and put in place measures to make the Borough a safe, viable and vibrant place.
It’s time for a change!

WHAT I STAND FOR:"
"I want to see:

• A Council that is efficiently and cost effectively run;
• A Council that listens and acts more with the community on issues;
• A Council and Councillors who communicate well and regularly with the community;
• Our rates used on things that are relevant to our community’s requirements;
• The ability for residents to discuss issues at Council Meetings.

ROB MINTY

I am standing again for Councillor to continue the recent important progress taking place. I am a Borough resident and have been a Councillor for the last nine months after winning the seat vacated by Cr Francis.
The appointment of the new CEO has seen real change in the way Council deals with community consultation in the Borough. I actively support the “get it done” agenda of 2020 and beyond.
I stand in support of a financially strong and independent Borough and a consultative Council focused on residents and supporting local business
We have progressed the Climate Emergency Response Plan and the Avenue of Honour action plan to replant this important memorial. The Hub, a substantial project which will improve resident and visitor experience in Hesse Street is progressing without cost or timing issues. 
I have advocated for years, as a member and president of the PLCA, for weed reduction on Ocean Road and improvements at The Point Lonsdale Lighthouse Reserve (PLLHR). Real action is finally underway. 
I believe our caravan parks need amenities upgraded. The income is important for Council and our  businesses need these visitors now more than ever.

AMANDA HOYSTED
I am proud to have been a member of the Queenscliff Point Lonsdale Community for my entire life; and over the years I have seen how this community has succeeded in dealing with challenges both big and small. 
However, Covid-19 and the current recession may be the greatest test that we will ever face.  I am asking for your vote so that I can join the Council and work to help the Borough at this important time.  
I am a true independent. I have no connections with any political party or special interest groups; and if elected, I will represent the ordinary ratepayers and residents of the Borough to the best of my ability. 
I have tertiary qualifications in Communications and Management and have successfully run my own retail business for over a decade. 
Running your own business teaches you the importance of managing your finances.  If elected, I pledge that I will work to ensure that the Borough manages your rates responsibly. Existing services to residents will be maintained and priority will be given to supporting local jobs and businesses.
There are many things that the Council does well, but these need to be expanded and promoted to benefit our community. I would establish a "Waste and Recycle Fortnight" to co-ordinate e-waste, chemical waste, and hard waste collections to assist residents in managing household waste more effectively.
The catastrophic fires at the start of 2020 highlighted the importance of having "Neighbourhood Safer Places" within the Borough. I believe that it is critical that a Fire Audit of the Borough be done this year.
This may be the most important vote that we cast in our local elections.  I am asking for your vote to ensure that an independent voice will be your representative on Council.

GEOFFREY MATHEWS
I moved from South Australia to Queenscliff in 2000 seeking a lifestyle change after having held senior positions in a family business and outside industry committee roles within Tafe South Australia and the SA Guild of Furniture Manufacturers.
My education comprises Bachelor of Arts (Flinders University), and Graduate Certificate Property (University of South Australia).
Since arriving I have renovated many houses and commercial properties within the Borough, enjoying the many components of restoration of Queenscliff and Point Lonsdale’s beautiful, diverse post 19th century architecture in a sympathetic and complementary manner that conserves and enhances their historical significance.
I am actively involved in the Queenscliff Lonsdale Yacht Club, on the management committee and an enthusiastic sailing member with a passion to show the benefits of outdoor water activities to young and old. 
Key directions: 
Nurture discourse and collaboration to create coherent nuts and bolts plans for infrastructure and the community.
Re-ignite the Borough as a must visit regional destination.
Strengthen our community's rich history, culture, social, environment and economic life.
Recognise the Wadawurrung people’s history and culture in our future.
Support residents and visitor infrastructure to create an environment for local businesses to flourish.
Support museums, the Hub, sport and park facilities, caravan parks, public toilets, town footpaths, walking and cycling tracks and the twin main streets, beaches, jetties, Shortland Bluff and Swan Bay.
Engage residents and council to connect the Borough in matters of marine and history, from Queenscliff Harbour to the Point Lonsdale lighthouse, to tell a powerful and vibrant local story.
Choose environmental best practice for our future generations.
Encourage back to basic principles in governance, asset, and financial management with the resources available.
*Edited

SUSAN SALTER
I came to live in the Borough of Queenscliffe in 1984. It has been a serendipitous blessing. Living where the land meets water.
I have been a Maths teacher at Bellarine Secondary College until my retirement in 2016. I was a member of the Save the Borough Committee in the early 1990. Our Independence continues into this century, and I continue to advocate to expand the boundary. Independence is assured by good governance and financial accountability.
I was honoured to be elected to council in 2012.
Over this time I have been a very active councillor, delighted to attend many local events and to catch up with many of you. I was privileged to be Mayor in 2018.
I introduced our Community Listening Post system, in which many of you have participated.
I have always valued the history our communities, ancient and recent, the heritage of the built environment, the surrounding environment. I have actively and strongly supported the heritage of our towns. Pleasingly, Stage 1 of our Heritage Review is finished. This is the first time since 1984 that this work has been updated and  I look forward to completing Stage 2 and thus protecting our lovely towns into the future.
I have actively supported the Hub community complex in Hesse Street, and look forward to its completion.
During this term, Council has completed a wide range of tasks, including the netball courts, the cricket nets and drainage works such as Hesse Street south, in Point Lonsdale and Queenscliff, to manage flooding.
 I have been the chair of Anzac Avenue Reference Group. You will have all enjoyed the benefits of the new trees this winter. But there is more to done. I look forward to further working on this with members of the community.
 Over the last period of Council, thousands of native trees and plants have been located in streets and parks. I will be supporting more environmental work, including the removal of weeds. I look forward to working with community members to develop priorities in this area.
 Following a community petition of more than 2000 people, I moved a motion declaring a Climate Emergency. The Council has already completed some work towards addressing this and will continue to do so into the future based on community consultation in which everyone will be invited to participate.
*Edited

Authorities have been urged to further investigate Queenscliffe’s beach erosion hot spots, after a damaging month of high tides and strong winds. 

Narrows Beach was hardest hit through May, with a barrage of large waves breaking the protective timber fence,  hastening the collapse of sand dunes and dislodging nearby timber beach access stairs. 

The Queenscliff front beach was also noticeably battered, with big swells carving a two-metre sand cliff along the high tide mark between the ferry terminal and pier. 

“Part of what we value most about living in the Borough is its spectacular coastline and welcoming beaches. Council is focused on preserving that environment for the benefit of many generations to come,” said Queenscliffe Mayor Cr Ross Ebbels. 
​
“When dealing with acts of nature such as these increased tides, we’re always looking with one eye to the future. This means ensuring repaired the damage, says it has asked the Department of the Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) and Parks Victoria to assess the erosion. 
​

The Borough of Queenscliffe is anticipating a “six-figure” financial hit from the closure of caravan parks alone as a result of the coronavirus, according to CEO Martin Gill. 

Council’s Draft 2020-21 Budget forecasts an underlying deficit of $901,000, with a minimum drop in revenue, particularly from tourism, of $698,000 (7.2%). 

“While Council’s financial position over the long term is secure, the short-term impacts of the coronavirus pandemic are significant and unavoidable,” Mr Gill said.

“Revenue losses resulting from the closure of caravan parks are difficult to project, but are expected to reach six figures. 

“Additional expenses from Council’s subsidisation of many fees and charges to support our community are necessary stimulus measures, but nonetheless compound the effect on Council’s bottom line,” he said.

A new kerbside organic waste collection initiative and a revamp of parking in South Hesse Street are among few new projects to be undertaken next financial year. A $6.5 million capital works program will instead focus on completing existing projects, including the Queenscliff Cultural Hub and Point Lonsdale Lighthouse Reserve.

Rates will rise by two per cent, in line with the State Government rates cap, however hardship provisions have been increased and a one-off waste rebate will be given to households as part off a $330,000 package to soften the pandemic’s impact on residents and businesses. 

The $120,000 Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) waste service will be rolled out in coming months,. Already operating in other municipalities, it allows households to dispose of green waste and organics such as food scraps, coffee grounds, tissues and dog droppings. 
​
A controversial $1.35million project to create 59 new car parking spaces and underground powerlines in South Hesse Street, is also expected to commence in coming weeks.

For some 26 years, PV Mavis III provided safe passage through the notorious 'rip' for sea farers. 

She will now see out her days as a tourist attraction at the Queenscliffe Maritime Museum. 

In a major logistical operation, the decommissioned pilot boat was last month hoisted out of Queenscliff Harbour waters and into her new home, at the Queenscliffe Maritime Museum.  


The Port Phillip Sea Pilots (PPSP) donated the vessel, with local businesses - Queenscliff Harbour Pty Ltd, Drews Haulage, Local Mix Concrete, McHarrys Buslines, Quinlan Cranes, QPL Concreting and Seared Ferries - all donating resources and labour. 
The PV Mavis III was one of the last pilot boats to be built in house at Queenscliff by past and present crew, in 1994.

“Donating the vessel seemed like the right choice for both the environment and to preserve our history in the local area,” the PPSP said.

Ninety-three year old Jack Beazley, who worked as a pilot ship wright for almost 50 years and is also a museum volunteer, was on hand to watch the vessel being lowered into place. 

“Up on the crane I said to them there’s probably some old dear in Beach Street making a cup of coffee at the sink and looking out the window, she sees the bloomin’ boat goes past and wonders if the floods have arrived,” he said. 

“She was up at a great height and if she had have broken loose there’d be no maritime museum there anymore.
​
"The boat will be a great addition to the museum," Mr Beazley said. "It already has a lot of history telling the story of the pilots and this will add to it."

The Point Lonsdale Lighthouse reserve will be officially known as the Point Lonsdale Maritime and Defence Precinct after a decision by Heritage Victoria to give it greater protection. 

The ruling means the entire area, not just the lighthouse itself - as has been the case up until now - is deemed to be of significance for its maritime, defence and cultural role in the state’s history. 

All buildings, ruins, archeological features, roads, trees and landscape elements will be covered.
 
The decision formalises a Heritage Victoria recommendation made in September and takes the reserve a step closer to gaining National Heritage Listing.  
        
“The proposed changes in this amendment will ensure that other significant buildings and features are included in the registration,” said Heritage Victoria Executive Director Steven Avery. “It will also includes land to protect the cultural heritage significance of the place.”

The reserve was deemed historically significant for the strategic role it has played in maritime navigation and rescue dating back to the 1850s, for its associations with national defence including both World Wars and for cultural reasons including as the location of Buckley’s cave.  

Under the ruling, no works can be carried out on the reserve without prior approval.

It is unclear what it means for a current Queenscliffe Council plan to demolish three of the four remaining World War II (P1) huts on the reserve. Under that proposal, unanimously endorsed by Councillors in January in contradiction to the recommendations of its own community reference group, only the MacDonald hut would be retained and restored as an interpretive building. 
​
Without clarifying the impact, Borough CEO Martin Gill welcomed the ruling: “The Borough of Queenscliffe is delighted by the announcement of expanded heritage protections for the Point Lonsdale Lighthouse Reserve. In fact, Council was actively encouraging residents to support the proposal on its website and in mayor’s columns,” he said. 

“This expanded listing not only ensures this much-loved location gets the protection it deserves, but ties in closely with Council’s plans to clean up and improve the existing site. 

“We are also actively seeking the view of the Waddawurrung to recognise and acknowledge the Indigenous heritage on the site. The expanded protections provide a strong base for partnership with the Victorian Government to protect and enhance the site.”

 “Improvement plans are currently making their way through the relevant approval processes. We hope to have more news to share with the community soon,” said Mr Gill.

The State Government has contributed $500,000 and the Borough of Queenscliffe $100,000 towards the $600,000 cost of the reserve masterplan, which also includes new pathways, improvements to the lighthouse surrounds and a ship viewing platform.
​
The reserve has been placed on a priority assessment list  for inclusion on the National Heritage List.

Click here to Concerns about future impacts of climate change on her young family has prompted a Point Lonsdale mother to establish a new local action group. 

Climate Change and the Borough of Queenscliffe held its first public meeting in recent days in an effort to raise greater local awareness of the issue and muster more support for change. 

“I have two young children, five and eight, and I am crippled with concern for the future that lies ahead for them,” said Kitty Walker. 

“The UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s (IPCC) latest findings clearly state the world has 12 years to cut its emissions in half to keep warming below 1.5 degrees, which climate-vulnerable nations have long argued is critical to their survival.

“State, Federal and international governments are not responding globally, so the best impact we can make is by focussing locally,” she said.

After renting in Point Lonsdale for many years, Kitty and her family finally purchased a house of their own, but she is fearful it could eventually succumb to sea level rise unless meaningful action is taken.

“If we keep going the way we’re going our home will be under water by the end of the century – indeed most of the Borough will.

“The key objective is to bring the community together to work with the Borough of Queenscliffe on innovative and creative initiatives to acknowledge, prepare for and counter the local impacts of the climate crisis. The Borough has a really unique opportunity given its size to have an enormous, positive, local impact,” Kitty said. 

Initiatives the group is pushing for include improved recycling and a Queenscliffe Council declaration of a climate emergency. 

Group members have already started their own grass-roots recycling program. Instead of putting materials in yellow-lidded bins, they are sorting items at home and will hire their own trailer to ensure the waste is genuinely recycled - not sent to landfill. 

"I closely watched the recent move by the Surf Coast Shire who declared a climate emergency and are tackling the recycling crisis locally by implementing a five-bin sort-at-the-home system and started to have hope that our beautiful, small, Borough could have a large impact too,” Kitty said.
​
Climate Change and the Borough of Queenscliffe can be found on Facebook.

​.

The Point Lonsdale Lighthouse reserve has edged closer to a national heritage listing, with the Victorian Heritage Council (VCH) pushing for stricter controls to protect its maritime and Defence assets. 

The lighthouse iitself is currently the only protected building on the site, having been included on the Register of Government Buildings in 1982. 

VCH Executive Director Steven Avery has formally recommended that registration be amended to also include other significant buildings and features - including the fog horn and rocket sheds, searchlight emplacement and Buckley’s Cave - as well as the site’s cultural assets. 

“It is proposed the name is changed from ‘Point Lonsdale Lighthouse’ to the ‘Point Lonsdale Maritime and Defence Precinct’ to better reflect the significance of the place,” Mr Avery's recommendation said. 
“It is proposed the existing permit exemptions are revised to provide clarity around works that can be carried out without the need for a permit application to Heritage Victoria.”

In detailing the case for a stronger classification, Mr Avery said the precinct was historically significant for the strategic role it has played in maritime navigation and rescues since the 1950’s. 

“The establishment of maritime navigational aids at Point Lonsdale was key in assisting the safe passage of vessels from Bass Strait into Port Phillip Bay. Safe passage through this stretch of water was important in the development of Melbourne as a major port.

The Point Lonsdale Maritime and Defence Precinct is also historically significant for its role in maritime rescue and its connections to the numerous shipwrecks that have occurred off its coast.”
He said the reserve was also important because of its connections to world wars one and two and through its ties to William Buckley.

“Buckley’s Cave is significant as it is widely believed that William Buckley sheltered here. Buckley was an absconder from the 1803 camp at Sullivan Cove near Sorrento. He is a key figure in early contact between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people around Port Phillip Bay.”

The recommendation follows a VCH decision earlier this year to add Queenscliff’s Shortland’s Bluff to the Victorian Heritage Register, protecting that headland’s historical assets from inappropriate development. 

It means the Borough of Queenscliffe must now seek Heritage Victoria approval before actioning any projects on either site. 

Mayor, Bob Merriman welcomed the new controls and said they would not impact current Council plans for the reserve, including the removal of two P1 Defence huts and re-purposing of the remaining two.  
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“The Borough of Queenscliffe has been working closely with the Victorian Heritage Council to ensure the Point Lonsdale Lighthouse Reserve gets the heritage recognition it deserves. This recommendation is an important milestone that will allow improvements of the site to move forward,” he said

Fishermen will pocket upwards of $200 annually in savings, after the Queenscliffe Council agreed to scrap parking and launch fees at the local boat ramp.

The Council has announced the fees will be removed immediately, after striking an undisclosed deal with the State Government to compensate for tens of thousands of dollars in lost earnings. 

The move follows a recent Facebook campaign, created by local fisherman John Joubert, to shame the Council into changing its mind. 

Queenscliffe was one of just two Councils in the state refusing to scrap the fees - defying a  government election commitment to upgrade amenities and make all recreational berthing free. 

"[A] big thanks to all who got behind our little fight, l just wonder if this would have happened if nobody raised a fuss," Mr Joubert posted. 

"Given the the land was bequest to the council from VicRail as crown land and all revenue was to be spent on maintenance and improvements, none of which is apart from employing a [toilet] cleaner and a bylaws officer, then you can probably understand why users at Queenscliff feel totally ripped off.”

However the Council said it had been negotiating with the government behind the scenes for several months. 

“Fee-free boating will make a day out on the water more accessible for everyone,” said Mayor Bob Merriman. “That’s why Council has been working closely with the Victorian Government on removing these fees.”

The Council hopes the move will deliver a spike in recreational boating tourism. “The Borough of Queenscliffe is the best place in the state to go boating and fishing. With no fees being charged for parking at the Queenscliff Boat Ramp, there’s never been a better time to visit our community for a day on the  water,” said Cr Merriman.

The Queenscliff ramp is one of the most popular on the Bellarine. Removal of the fees will save boat owners as much as $202 annually or $129 for residents, and parking fees of $12 a day. Council has estimated it could, however, cost as much as $1.25 million in lost revenue over the next 10 years. 
Under the new agreement, amenities at the ramp will also be upgraded. 

The government promised to abolish fees statewide in the lead up to November’s state election and committed to returning every cent of marine licensing and boat registration fees to improving boating safety and facilities through the establishment of a Better Boating fund.
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“We’ve listened to boaters and are delivering on our commitment to scrap parking and launching fees – making it cheaper and easier more for more Victorians to get involved in recreational boating and fishing,” said Fishing and Boating Minister Jaala Pulford.

The State Government has been asked to undertake urgent new investigations to determine the scale and cause of erosion at Queenscliff’s Dog Beach, with photos detailing significant changes to the landscape.

Aerial shots, taken in the wake of recent storm surges by local photographer Lester Hunt, show dramatic movement of sand away from the beach and significant undermining of the primary back beach dune. 

The Point Lonsdale Civic Association (PLCA) has written to Environment and Climate Change Minister Lily D’Ambrosio and the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) requesting answers and calling for a monitoring program to be established to accurately evaluate the changes. 

“The unprotected dune system in Lonsdale Bay has recently experienced undercutting and severe slippage resulting in much of the adjoining headland disappearing, the cliff face retreating and woodland trees collapsing towards the beach,” the Association said. 

“[We are] unsure if this latest erosion is due to rising sea levels resulting from changing weather patterns and climate change or recent channel deepening at Port Phillip heads or a combination of both. 

“We appreciate this part of the coastline is very dynamic with sand coming and going on a regular basic, however these recent impacts are alarming when you consider the entire dune, woodland and foreshore reserve forms ‘The Narrows', a relatively narrow strip of land leading into the township of Queenscliff.”

The area of beach, also referred to as a terminal scour, has long been a cause of concern. 

Previous efforts to halt erosion have included installation of matting on the dune, extensive replanting and fencing. 

A Queenscliffe Council spokesperson said the Borough would continue to work with the state government to find solutions for erosion along the entire coastline. 

“Council is continuing to work with DELWP to plan for and secure funding for erosion mitigation works across the Borough," he said. "A tender process is currently under way to build additional groynes along the Point Lonsdale foreshore to help retain sand on this beach.

“Council is also preparing a Coastal Management Plan, which was funded in this year’s budget. This plan will comprehensively review the Borough’s coastline and strategically plan to address challenges associated with rising sea levels and coastal erosion,” he said.

Queenscliff’s new Chief Executive Officer boasts ties with Point Lonsdale stretching back 100 years. 
Martin Gill’s family, on his mother’s side, commenced a connection with the town in 1920,  that  still continues today. 

He also brings with him extensive experience in local government, most recently as a General Manager - the equivalent of CEO - at Tasmania’s Meander Valley Council. 

"Council will be delighted to welcome Mr Gill to the Borough of Queenscliffe as our new CEO," said Mayor Bob Merriman. "After a comprehensive process, we are confident that Mr Gill has the combination of experience and vision to guide the Borough through the next five years." 

He was appointed unanimously at a Special Council meeting last month and will commence in the role on October 7.  

Mr Gill was selected from a long list of applicants from across Australia as part of a rigorous recruitment process that included multiple rounds of interviews, according to Cr Merriman. 

Council also appointed G21 CEO Elaine Carbines as an independent member of the selection panel.

“Getting this decision right has been a top priority for Council,” said Cr Merriman. “That’s why we went over and above the requirements of the Local Government Act at every step of the process.”

The search for a new CEO began after current CEO Lenny Jenner announced his resignation in April. Mr Jenner is leaving the Borough after almost 11 years as CEO.
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"Succeeding a CEO after such a long period of excellent service is always a challenging task," said Cr Merriman. "Council extends its thanks to Mr Jenner for his outstanding leadership, and wishes him all the best for the future."