The Bellarine Bayside Committee of Management (BBCoM) will be replaced by a new Interim Committee for 18 months, Member for Bellarine and Minister for Environment, Climate Change and Water, Lisa Neville, announced today.
Bellarine Bayside Committee of Management is responsible for the planning, management, care and protection of assets and crown land along the North Bellarine foreshore from Portarlington to St Leonards.
Over the last few years there have been growing concerns raised by local communities about the lack of engagement by Bellarine Bayside and about the management of the foreshore.The community have expressed their desire for changes.
The Andrews Labor Government has appointed Diane James AM, as the Interim Chair of the BBCoM. Ms James is a well-respected leader with extensive experience in community engagement and business development. Ms James will lead an Interim Committee who all bring a vast array of experience combined with strong community links.
An independent review of BBCoM will assess governance, finances and community engagement processes to ensure the right structures are in place to support excellent service delivery and environmental outcomes for the local community and visitors to the Bellarine.
The Labor Government acknowledges the voluntary work and commitment of the previous committee, but recognises the need to develop the best structures for the future management of the foreshore.
Members of the Interim Committee are: Dianne James, Steve Griffin, Graeme McGregor, Elaine Carbines, Neil Bell, Paul Simmons, Therese Cotter and Lindsay Ellis.
Quotes attributable to the Member for Bellarine and Minister for Environment, Climate Change and Water, Lisa Neville
“The Bellarine community are eager about protecting their coastline and it's important they have a say in the way it's managed.”
“While the committee is in place there will be an independent review to ensure we have the best structures to care for, and protect, our coastal reserve.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020