Torquay Tree Replacement
Project background
In July 2022, works commenced on a stage 1 of significant revegetation project along the Torquay foreshore with the planting of 2,500 plants including 150 advanced trees.
2024 will see the commencement of Stage 2 planting with an additional 5000 locally sourced indigenous plants being planted on across coastal reserves between Whites Beach and Spring Creek.
The works have been carefully designed by an ecologist, landscape architect and arborist and consider factors including safety, habitat value, wind loading, landscape amenity, provision of shade and maintaining views along The Esplanade.
Community benefits from the project include greater safety, shade and wind shelter, increasing cultural values and supporting local business by activating outdoor spaces close to shops, restaurants and cafes.
The project will also improve habitat for native wildlife by including a mix of endemic and native grasses, groundcovers, shrubs and feature trees.
The plan includes some additional garden beds and revegetation sites as well as the maintenance of other open lawn spaces and overflow parking areas. The end result will maximise both amenity and biodiversity outcomes for the Torquay Foreshore area.
Works are supported by our Draft Point Impossible to Jan Juc Masterplan 2020-25, which has identified several actions for planting along foreshore areas. The Tree Replacement Project translates these objectives into a practical planting program over several years.
What engagement has been done to date
The Draft Point Impossible to Jan Juc Masterplan 2020-25 was developed by the Great Ocean Road Coast Committee and inherited by the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority in 2020.
The draft masterplan was informed by community and stakeholder engagement conducted over 2019 and 2020. The engagement identified several themes of importance to the community that should be reflected in the masterplan.
What we heard
Community and stakeholder consultation on the initial issues and opportunities identified five priorities:
- Protect environmental values
- Address the pressures of development, population and visitation growth
- Address conflicts in beach use and access
- Manage and adapt to risks of climate change, including erosion and inundation
- Improve circulation path networks, and all abilities access, to and around the foreshore.
We have consulted and worked with the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners on the project, as well as informing neighbouring residents and businesses.
Maps
To view the detailed landscape plan maps, please click below.
Further information
If you have further comments or questions about the project, please speak with our team at info@greatoceanroadauthority.vic.gov.au or call 1300 736 533.