Communities in the Geelong and Bellarine Peninsula coastal regions now have access to the latest data to address the impacts of climate change.
Visiting Geelong Library today, Minister for Water and Member for Bellarine Lisa Neville today launched the Our Coast project.
Our Coast uses the latest data on projected sea level rises and storm surges to help coastal communities and government agencies plan and respond to the impact of climate change.
The Geelong (Corio Bay) and Bellarine Peninsula area is one of four Victorian coastal regions involved in undertaking local coastal hazard assessments as part of the climate change project.
These assessments combine previous climate change coastal hazards research with detailed modelling and projected sea level rise data. It predicts sea level rises of 0.2m by 2040, 0.5m by 2070 and 0.8m by 2100.
- The report's study area includes the entire Bellarine Peninsula and the northern side of Corio Bay, from Breamlea in the south to Point Wilson in the north
- By using the latest mapping technology the report has identified that the extent of inundation risk is less than previously modelled
State government agencies and local councils will use the information to influence future planning decisions, emergency management frameworks, local infrastructure maintenance and climate adaptation planning.
Following the launch, a series of open houses and workshops will be held, giving the community an opportunity to find out more about the latest data and be involved in the planning, prioritising and implementation of responses to deal with sea level rises in their community.
The dates and locations of the open house sessions and the Bellarine Peninsula – Corio Bay Local Hazard Assessment Inundation Report are available on the Our Coast website:
Our Coast project partners include the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, the City of Greater Geelong, Borough of Queenscliffe, Bellarine Bayside Foreshore Committee of Management, Barwon Coast Committee of Management Inc and the Corangamite Catchment Management Authority.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Water & Member for Bellarine Lisa Neville
“Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula are home to some of Victoria’s most beautiful and vibrant coastal communities, and residents like myself want to keep it that way.”
“The popularity of this area is only going to grow over time.”
“By planning and preparing for the impacts of change climate now, we are helping ensure this area retains its unique and renowned coastal lifestyle for generations to come.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio
"All levels of government, the community, local business and industry have a role in preparing for the impacts of sea level rise and climate change. The Our Coast project provides the knowledge and tools to begin this critical work.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020