Macedon Ranges Shire
Natural Environment Strategy
2009 - 2012
MACEDON RANGES SHIRE
Natural Environment Strategy 2009
Authors and Contributors
Macedon Ranges Shire – Natural Environment Advisory Committee
Alice Aird
Henryka Benson
David Blicblau
Angela Cassar
John Crutchfield
Peter Hansford
Peter Myroniuk
Brendan Smith
Jim Sansom
Councillors
Cr Henryka Benson
Cr John Letchford
Cr Tom Gyorffy
Consultants
Ann McGregor
Officers
Barry Whelan, Manager Environmental Services
Lachlan Milne, Environment Resource Officer
Senarath Pathirana, Environmental Engineer
Deborah Varney, Environmental Services Administration Officer.
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CONTENTS
Summary ..............................................................................................................................4
Part A. Background and Context.......................................................................................8
1. Introduction ....................................................................................................................8
1.1
A Renewed Natural Environment Strategy .........................................................8
1.2
Meeting stakeholder needs ................................................................................9
1.3
Aim and scope .................................................................................................10
1.4
Timeframe ........................................................................................................10
1.5
The Strategy process .......................................................................................11
1.6
Achievements to date.......................................................................................11
2. The importance of the journey to ecological sustainability ......................................13
2.1
An urgent imperative ........................................................................................13
2.2
Principles of ecological sustainability................................................................14
2.3
Macedon Ranges Shire Draft Sustainability Framework ...................................15
2.4
Strategy goals ..................................................................................................18
2.5
A shared responsibility: Community and partnerships ......................................18
2.6
Legislative framework ......................................................................................20
2.7
Local policy context ..........................................................................................21
3. Strategy implementation, monitoring and review .......................................................23
3.1
Implementing the Strategy ...............................................................................23
3.2
Measuring success ..........................................................................................25
3.3
Monitoring, reporting and review ......................................................................26
4. Macedon Ranges Shire - a rich environmental and cultural landscape ...................28
4.1
The Dividing Range..........................................................................................28
4.2
Two iconic landscapes .....................................................................................28
4.3
Waterways and Catchments ............................................................................31
4.4
Soils .................................................................................................................32
4.5
Biodiversity: Our unique and fragile natural heritage ........................................34
4.6
Maps and living culture ....................................................................................37
4.7
Land settlement ...............................................................................................38
4.8
Gold routes ......................................................................................................39
4.9
Forests and timber ...........................................................................................39
4.10 Our way of life in a global context .....................................................................40
4.11 Change, time and an ecologically sustainable future ........................................41
Part B. Moving Towards Sustainability ...........................................................................42
B1. Community, Partnerships and Leadership ...............................................................43
Theme 1. Community consultation, communication and capacity building ................43
Program 1.1 Community partnerships .........................................................................46
Program 1.2 Communications & consultation .............................................................47
Program 1.3 Council and community capacity, training and education .......................48
Theme 2. Partnerships and advocacy .............................................................................50
Program 2.1 Environmental Action Brand ...................................................................51
Program 2.2 Macedon Ranges Environment Trust .....................................................52
Program 2.3 Policy development and advocacy .........................................................52
Program 2.4 Regional partnerships ............................................................................52
Theme 3. Council leadership ...........................................................................................54
Program 3.1 MRSC Draft Sustainability Framework ...................................................56
Program 3.2 MRSC contracts, purchasing and investment ........................................56
B2. On-ground projects and services ..............................................................................58
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Theme 4. Healthy ecosystems, sustainable land management, water quality .............58
Program 4.1 Macedon Ranges Shire owned or managed land ....................................77
Program 4.2 Private land natural resource management .............................................78
Program 4.3 Natural resource management policy development .................................80
Program 4.4 Research, mapping and resource assessment ........................................84
Theme 5. Climate change mitigation, planning and adaptation ....................................86
Program 5.1 Climate change local action.....................................................................94
Program 5.2 MRSC climate change risk management................................................95
Program 5.3 Community action for climate change ......................................................96
Theme 6. Recycling, waste and protecting air quality ...................................................97
Program 6.1 Waste Management Strategy ..................................................................98
Program 6.2 Urban Air Quality Protection ....................................................................99
Theme 7. Sustainable water use....................................................................................100
Program 7.1 Stormwater management ......................................................................101
Program 7.2 Water conservation ...............................................................................101
Theme 8. Ecologically sustainable economy ..............................................................102
Program 8.1 Regional environmental education network ...........................................103
Program 8.2 Ecologically sustainable industries and land use ...................................103
Program 8.3 Auditing, marketing and branding ..........................................................104
Theme 9. Land use planning .........................................................................................105
Program 9.1 Landscape Units ...................................................................................111
Program 9.2 MRSC Planning Developer Reference Group........................................114
Program 9.3 Sustainability in statutory and strategic planning ...................................114
Appendix 1. Legislation and Policies .............................................................................116
Appendix 2. Sustainability Framework Matrix ...............................................................123
Appendix 3. Significant natural areas managed by Council ........................................124
Glossary of Terms ...........................................................................................................128
List of Tables ...................................................................................................................131
List of Figures .................................................................................................................132
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Summary
A Renewed Natural Environment Strategy
The Macedon Ranges Shire Council, together with the Natural Environment Advisory
Committee (NEAC) has reviewed the Macedon Ranges Shire’s Natural Environment
Strategy 2002 (NES 2002). Significant changes have occurred in global, national
and local contexts since 2002. There is heightened community concern and sense of
urgency to put in place measures that can support a move towards a more
sustainable future and to focus on those issues and activities that will make a real
and visible difference. Climate change, water supply and biodiversity threats are
critical issues. This document, the Draft Natural Environment Strategy 2009, is
Council’s response. It has been designed to:





be consistent with the Council Plan and Municipal Strategic Statement
provide clear goals and objectives that enable clarity in progress reporting and
accountability
contain practical and achievable actions that are meaningful and meet the
needs of the community
build upon and enhance partnerships within the local community and with
private and government sectors, and
be flexible to enable adaptation to any future changes to priorities and
resources.
For the 2009 review, the emphasis has been on the outputs and actions to ensure
that Council energy is directed towards practical implementation of the Strategy.
Natural Environment Strategy 2009
The Draft Natural Environment Strategy 2009 comprises two parts:
Part A Background and Context introduces the Strategy, its principles and goals,
and outlines recent achievements in the Shire’s move towards ecological
sustainability. It explains how the Strategy will be implemented through Council
processes, and how progress will be monitored and reported.
Part A sets the scene and provides an overview of the issues and the values that are
important within the Macedon Ranges Shire. It includes the following sections:




Introduction
The importance of the journey to ecological sustainability
Strategy implementation, monitoring and review
Macedon Ranges Shire - A rich environmental and cultural landscape
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Part B Moving Towards Sustainability is structured around nine environmental
themes. For each theme there is background information, an aim and objectives, as
well as a number of action programs.
Part B sets out what Council intends to do to address the issues identified in Part A.
The format will enable the community to quickly identify the proposed actions. It will
be reviewed every two years which will provide for the actions to be updated, taking
into account completed actions as well as introducing new actions responding to
changing priorities threats/risks and opportunities. The Nine themes are as follows:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Community consultation, communication and capacity building
Partnerships and advocacy
Council leadership
Healthy ecosystems, sustainable land management, water quality
Climate change
Recycling, waste, air quality
Sustainable water use
Ecologically sustainable economy
Land use planning
Each Theme includes:
 Background information
 Aim
 Objectives
 Success measures
 Programs and Actions
The strategy recognises that community participation is essential to delivering
environmental outcomes and places emphasis on communication and capacity
building.
Key Actions
Significant actions included in the strategy include the following:






Improvements to water quality by reducing litter in our streams.
Developing and enhancing reserves in public ownership.
Working with private land owners to protect and enhance the environmental
value of the land.
Development of an Environmental Brand to assist with promotion and
marketing actions under the strategy.
Use of geographical areas called Landscape Units to identify the unique
attributes of different topographical areas in the Shire and to develop
management guidelines to protect and enhance those assets.
Further development of the Sustainability Framework to ensure environmental
considerations are embedded in Council’s service delivery and policy
development.
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

A targeted Grants program in partnership with State Government agencies to
protect biodiversity values on private land.
A proposal to investigate options for the Barrm Birrm land (Riddell Ranges
Estate, Shone and Shultz subdivision).
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Part A.
Background and Context
1. Introduction
1.1 A Renewed Natural Environment Strategy
The Macedon Ranges Shire Council, together with the Natural Environment Advisory
Committee1 has reviewed the Macedon Ranges Shire’s Natural Environment
Strategy 2002 (NES 2002). Significant changes have occurred in global, national
and local contexts since 2002. There is heightened community concern and sense of
urgency to put in place measures that can support a move towards a more
sustainable future and to focus on those issues and activities that will make a real
and visible difference. Climate change, water supply and biodiversity threats are
critical issues. This document, the Draft Natural Environment Strategy 2009, is
Council’s response. It has been designed to:





be consistent with the Council Plan and Municipal Strategic Statement
provide clear goals and objectives that enable clarity in progress reporting and
accountability
contain practical and achievable actions that are meaningful and meet the
needs of the community
build upon and enhance partnerships within the local community and with
private and government sectors, and
be flexible to enable adaptation to any future changes to priorities and
resources.
Preparation of the NES 2002 involved extensive consultation with the Environment
Advisory Committee, citizens, community organisations, local businesses and other
interested stakeholders. If the Strategy is to be effective, it must remain a ‘living
document’ that is referred to, implemented and reviewed by many more people
throughout the Shire in the future.
For the 2009 review, the emphasis has been on the outputs and actions to ensure
Council energy is directed towards practical implementation of the Strategy.
The document is divided into two parts. Part A Background and Context introduces
the Strategy, its principles and goals, and outlines recent achievements in the Shire’s
move towards ecological sustainability. It explains how the Strategy will be
1
The Macedon Ranges Natural Environment Committee comprises a dedicated group of people with
a range of skills and backgrounds. Landcare and Trust for Nature have representatives plus eight
Community members, two Councillors and three Council Officers from the Environmental Services
area.
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implemented through Council processes, and how progress will be monitored and
reported. Part B Moving Towards Sustainability, is structured around nine
environmental themes. For each theme there is background information, an aim and
objectives, as well as a number of action programs. The themes are:
10. Community consultation, communication and capacity building
11. Partnerships and advocacy
12. Council leadership
13. Healthy ecosystems, sustainable land management, water quality
14. Climate change
15. Recycling, waste, air quality
16. Sustainable water use
17. Ecologically sustainable economy
18. Land use planning
Some of the important over-arching initiatives in this Strategy are a Sustainability
Framework (see program 3.1) to guide all Council departments in developing policy
and infrastructure and delivering works and services; an Environmental Action
Brand (program 2.1) to help promote Council’s actions and partnerships, and
delineation of Landscape Units (program 9.1) for discrete geographic areas within
the Shire, which describe the local environmental assets, risks and values so that
specific guidelines and responsive actions can be developed and implemented.
1.2 Meeting stakeholder needs
The Strategy is intended to meet the needs of a diverse range of stakeholders. Some
examples are given below.
For our community
The community wants to hear what Council’s direction is, what Council is doing and
how they can participate. Action programs under the first key Theme in Part B
address community consultation, communication and capacity building. The
Environmental Action Brand and Landscape Units will be designed to help the
community to identify with local issues and motivate their interest and involvement.
The Environmental Action Brand provides the public face of Council’s environmental
objectives and programs.
For project partners
The second key Theme in Part B is concerned with partnerships between Council
and community, business, service agencies, neighbouring local governments and
State and Federal Governments. The Environmental Action Brand and Landscape
Units will focus the attention of project partners on their key areas of interest.
For Councillors
The Natural Environment Strategy sets environmental policy directions, and outlines
projects linked directly to the Council Plan. As Councillors shape Council services
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and direction, they will have access to clear policy and strategy as well as detailed
information about the various projects and programs that will deliver the desired
outcomes.
The Strategy will help Councillors build an enhanced understanding of how the
various issues and projects within Council overlap and integrate towards achieving
sustainability and protection of our natural environment.
Council relies on detailed project plans and budgets to ensure financial accountability
and also to attract funds from external sources. The Natural Environment Strategy
provides a solid framework for accountability and transparency.
For Council Officers
There are environmental implications arising from the work of all sectors of Council,
from delivery of meals and kindergarten services to construction of footpaths and
roads. Therefore the way Council works has significant impacts on local
sustainability. This provides a significant opportunity to lead by example. Across
Council departments, Council’s Sustainability Framework will provide tools for units
to work through the relevant environmental issues and take responsibility for
improved outcomes.
1.3 Aim and scope
This Natural Environment Strategy aims to establish an ideological and strategic
framework to direct the Macedon Ranges Shire towards achieving ecological
sustainability. In other words, it will ensure that Macedon Ranges Shire meets our
needs today, while conserving our ecosystems for the benefit of future generations.
The community strongly values the qualities and attributes of the Shire’s natural
environment. The Natural Environment Strategy responds to community
expectations for Council to be a leader and partner with community in achieving
sustainability and represents an expression of Council’s commitment to preserve the
local environment. The Principles, Goals and Objectives outlined in the Strategy
show the Council’s direction, whilst the Actions show the strategic approach for
achieving policy objectives with a particular focus on partnerships with the
community.
The Strategy potentially encompasses all activities within the Shire that have an
impact on natural systems and resources. Geographically, the Policy focuses on the
Shire, but it also considers activities within the Shire that have environmental effects
outside the Shire’s boundaries. These include pollution, water and energy use, and
contributions to global climate change.

1.4 Timeframe
This Strategy has several timeframes. It aims to achieve ecological sustainability for
the very long term – and indeed, it will require a major, long-term effort to achieve
this. However, many of the actions are intended to be completed within the next four
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years. The aims, objectives and strategic directions detailed in this Strategy are
likely to remain relevant for a somewhat longer timeframe than the action
commitments, but nevertheless should be reviewed in five years’ time.
1.5 The Strategy process
The NES 2002 was developed following an extended period of community
consultation and drafting that commenced in 1999. This review has been carried out
by Council officers with input and guidance from Council’s Natural Environment
Advisory Committee.
In reviewing the NES 2002 through 2007 and 2008, the Committee concluded that
the policy content of the NES 2002 remained relevant and sound. However, it
recommended that the review particularly address growing community concern
regarding climate change and the extended drought.
The NES 2002 was developed around four environmental themes: Soil/Air/Water,
Biodiversity, Global Responsibility and Land Use Planning. These themes are still
critically important and are embraced in the 2009 Strategy. This document is
structured around nine key themes which are intended to be more focused and place
more emphasis on community, partnerships and Council’s own activities. The focus
of the review has been on developing new actions within each of the nine key themes
This draft document, once adopted by Council for the purpose of public exhibition,
will be publicised and widely distributed to seek feedback from the community,
government agencies and other stakeholders. The feedback received will be collated,
considered and taken into account in developing a revised document. A report will
be prepared for Council’s consideration including a summary of the feedback
received together with the revised strategy. It is anticipated that this will occur in May
2009.
1.6 Achievements to date
Considerable progress has been made in the Shire since the development of an
environment strategy began in 1998.
The Council has demonstrated an increasing commitment to resourcing its
environmental program. The appointment of an Environmental Planner in 1998 was
a reflection of increased importance attached to environmental activities. In 2000 the
new role of Manager of Environmental Services was created, and in 2001 the single
Environmental Planner’s position was replaced by two full-time Environment Officers.
Since 2002 two positions, Environment Engineer and Weed Control / Bushland
Management Officer have been established. Ongoing funding has been provided for
environmental actions and project funding is constantly being sought from partner
agencies.
The Green Keepers working group was established in 2001. The Green Keepers
comprise Council officers working on a range of ‘in house’ environmental initiatives
that stretch across all of Council’s operations.
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The Shire was one of the first municipalities in Australia to join the Cities for Climate
ProtectionTM program, and has completed Milestone Five. The Greenhouse Local
Action Plan was adopted by Council in 1999 and progress has been made in
implementing this plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from Council operations.
Energy efficient and water saving features have been incorporated in two recent
building re-developments; the Romsey library / community hub and the Woodend
Community Hub.
Ecological assessments are now undertaken as part of the consideration of planning
applications affecting sites with recognised environmental values.
All landfill sites in the Shire have been closed and are in the process of being
rehabilitated. A new transfer station has been constructed at Romsey and transfer
station facilities at Woodend and Kyneton have been upgraded.
The Port Phillip and Westernport Catchment Management Authority has been
established replacing the Port Phillip and Western Port Catchment and Land
Protection Board. Melbourne Water has been made responsible for waterway
management and drainage within the Port Phillip catchment. Council was an active
advocate in calling for this change.
In partnership with the North Central Catchment Management Authority and other
partners, Council has helped produce the sustainable land use book Caring for
Country (2006).
Council has developed and is implementing the MRSC Weed Strategy 2005. Council
undertakes extensive weed control works on roadsides for fire prevention and to
protect high conservation value roadsides.
The Tackling Weeds on Private Land Project has been successfully implemented
with achievements including the creation of the Voluntary Environmental Resource
Inventory and the Enviromark Weed Vehicle Hygiene program.
The Central Victorian Weed Guide has been reviewed and reprinted, and weed
information brochures have been printed to provide advice to residents.
Council established a 100% Rate Rebate for properties protected by a Trust for
Nature Conservation Covenant.
Council has been actively supporting and resourcing Landcare and Friends groups,
including funding, tool trailer, information, advice, training, and assistance with grant
applications.
Council has provided Roadside Procedures training for contractors on protecting the
environmental values of roadsides when necessary works are being undertaken.
Roadside vegetation mapping for all municipal roads was completed in 2008.
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2. The importance of the journey to ecological
sustainability
2.1 An urgent imperative
We depend totally on our environment for our health, well being and survival, yet
everything we do has some environmental impact. Humanity’s consumption of
resources has risen to such a degree there are threats to the stability of our climate,
ecosystems, and supplies of water and food.
A concerted, global effort to establish ecological sustainability is essential. The race
and the challenge are on. The question is whether we can raise sufficient
determination, imagination and cooperation to achieve our aim.
In seeking ecological sustainability, we are aiming to ensure that Macedon Ranges
Shire meets our needs today, while conserving our ecosystems for the benefit of
future generations. In other words, we want to be able to maintain a high quality of
life, both now and in the future, whilst reversing existing environmental degradation
and maintaining the ecological processes on which all life depends.
Success depends on action, not words. With the help of our citizens, community
groups, businesses, and other levels of government we can achieve the actions
included in this strategy
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2.2 Principles of ecological sustainability
The following principles underpin this Strategy.
Six principles of ecological sustainability are:
1. Conserving Biological Diversity: Protecting life support mechanisms
We must protect the natural processes we depend on, such as the variety
of life forms that continually cleanse our water and air.
2. Conservation and Sustainable Use of Natural Resources: Living within
our means
We must:

minimise use of and conserve non-renewable resources

manage the use of renewable resources at an ecologically
sustainable level

not produce more waste than nature can assimilate without damage.
3. Intergenerational Equity: Passing the Earth to future generations
Consider the big picture - Given the interconnectedness of all things
environmental, we must always consider global as well as local impacts.
Sustainability is also about ensuring the future for our children’s children’s
children. This is ‘intergenerational equity’ and means making sure that the
needs and demands of the present do not compromise the options of the
future.
4. Socio-cultural and Economic Wellbeing: Pulling our weight
Strong community networks and effective communication enhance wellbeing. Wherever possible, organisations and individuals must be
responsible for their own environmental impacts
5. Social Integrity: Ensuring a fair go
The motivation for ensuring sustainability depends on individuals and
organisations having some degree of control over their own lives and
impacts. Community strengthening, empowerment and participation in
decision making are vital prerequisites for ecological sustainability.
6. Precautionary Measures: Application of the Precautionary Principle
Wherever there are threats of serious or irreversible environmental
damage, lack of certainty should neither be used as a reason for allowing
potentially damaging actions, nor for postponing measures to prevent
damage.
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2.3 Macedon Ranges Shire Draft Sustainability Framework
In Australia, ecological sustainability is described as “Ecologically Sustainable
Development (ESD), which is defined as using, conserving and enhancing the
community’s resources so that ecological processes, on which life depends, are
maintained, and the total quality of life, now and in the future, can be increased” 2.
In practice, achieving sustainability is more difficult than defining it. In the context of
this Strategy we are discussing Council’s organisational structure and service
delivery. Broadly speaking there is a need to incorporate ecological principles into
decision-making processes. Generally, policy has been developed in terms of
economics or social welfare, in the absence of an analysis of the underlying
ecological and natural resources that underpin the social and economic realms. To
achieve sustainability, existing ecological processes and limitations to the utilisation
of natural resources need to be key elements of analysis and decision-making.
The Draft Macedon Ranges Sustainability Framework 2003 is a report prepared for
Council by Victor Sposito and Hemayet Hossain of Agriculture Victoria Services.
This report sets out to build a relationship between the elements of economy, society
and ecology, and in so doing, provide Council with a more sustainable basis for
future decision making. The Draft Sustainability Framework provides an Information
Network and a Decision Support System to assist this process.
The report describes four broad ‘Decision-making Fields’. Any Council activity can
be described and analysed within these four spheres. If decision-making is to be
sustainable, all four fields must be analysed simultaneously.
The Draft Sustainability Framework seeks to subsume the ‘organisational’ decisionmaking field into the three primary spheres of Socio-cultural, Economic and
Ecological. This indicates that the organisation has achieved a state of ‘governance’
as opposed to ‘government’. Governance describes an organisation acting as a
‘steward’ on behalf of the community. The role of Local Government is transformed.
The following diagram taken from the report shows three organisational states
relative to the ideal of a mature, sustainable organisation.
Council’s achievements to date show it as a developing ‘organisation with internal
connections’ with progress towards mature organisational sustainability as its goal.
2
Council of Australian Governments 1992
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Immature, unsustainable
organisation
SocioCultural
Ecological
Economic
Organisational
Organisation with
internal connections
SocioCultural
Ecological
This diagram illustrates
the process of
organisational evolution.
True sustainability is
indicated by a balanced
and cohesive blend of the
four Decision Making
Fields. (Sposito and
Hossain 2003)
Organisational
Economic
A mature, sustainable
organisation
SocioCultural
Ecological
Economic
Figure 1. Decision Making
Fields
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With the six principles of ecological sustainability (see 2.2, Principles of ecological
sustainability), the characteristics of urban and regional sustainability can be defined.
The table below also taken from the report describes the characteristics of a
sustainable community.
Biological
diversity
Avoidance of
potentially
ecologically
irreversible
actions
Conservation
and use of
resources
Minimum
energy and
material
intensity
(Resilience of
the built form)
Inter- and
Intragenerational
equity
Equal access to
a common level
of societal
services and
amenity
Socio cultural and
Economic and
wellbeing
Retention of
indigenous
vegetation and
habitats, and
enhancement of
biodiversity
Resource recovery
and waste
minimised, reused
and recycled
Land resource used
according to its
suitability with
minimum
commitment to
inflexible and
irreversible uses
Maintenance of the
value of the natural
and social-cultural
heritage
(Diversity and
Choice)
Availability of housing
choice and
employment
opportunities
Strong
community
networks and
communication
Maximum use of
social and built
capital
Socio-economic
benefits from new
environmental
technologies and low
environmental impact
industries
Social
integrity
Community
strengthening,
including
capacity
building
Community
participation and
empowerment
Awareness through
the provision of
relevant information
Precautionary
measures.
Discharge
(emissions)
compatibility
with the
capacity of the
receiving
environment
Risk minimisation
through the
adoption of best
practice and best
available
technology.
Urban activity
concentration
and
containment
(New)
infrastructure
achieving
efficient and
effective
material flows
Table 1. Ecologically Sustainable Development principles and characteristics of urban &
regional sustainability
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Part B of this strategy sets out a range of actions to complete the Macedon
Ranges Shire Draft Sustainability Framework for consideration and adoption
by Council and implement it across the Council organisation.
2.4 Strategy goals
The Natural Environment Strategy 2002 included a number of broad objectives.
Those objectives formed the basis of the goals for the Natural Envionment Strategy
2009. More specific objectives are set within each of the key Themes in
Part B.
The goals of the Natural Environment Strategy are:
o To protect and restore the Macedon Ranges Shire’s soil, water and air
quality.
o To conserve the indigenous biodiversity values of the Macedon Ranges
Shire through protecting, enhancing and restoring our indigenous
vegetation and habitat, with no local extinction of plant or animal
species.
o To take responsibility for the Macedon Ranges Shire’s external
environmental impacts, particularly its contribution to global
environmental issues and to integrate our environmental priorities
across all aspects of our activities.
o To strive for ecologically sustainable development and works through
strategic land use planning, planning policies and the administration of
statutory development controls.
o To raise environmental awareness and provide education opportunities
for the community.
o To reduce the consumption of and reliance on non-renewable resources
and provide for equitable access to natural resources.
2.5 A shared responsibility: Community and partnerships
Sustainability starts with partnerships. Council cannot solely develop and deliver
projects to address all environmental impacts that affect the Shire. In some
situations Council may have the lead responsibility, such as with waste and recycling,
but in other cases it does not have a direct role or responsibility. Council may not
have enough human or financial resources, or an issue may be of national or
international scale that is difficult to influence. Almost always Council needs to be
working cooperatively as a partner with community, private sector and/or other
government agencies/authorities.
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It is important to recognise that Council shares responsibility for the protection and
enhancement of the environment with many others, including our citizens, business
and industry, community groups, Landcare groups, Friends groups, visitors, and
Federal and State Government departments and agencies. Cooperation with all
these allies is essential to:
 optimise the use of limited resources
 clarify respective roles and responsibilities
 highlight areas where resources are inadequate and develop strategies to
ensure adequate resources are available, and
 foster the spirit of partnership on which environmental protection ultimately
depends.
The Macedon Ranges Natural Environment Strategy will be further developed with
these partners and this will provide an opportunity to strengthen the links.
The role of individuals is also essential in moving our community towards an
ecologically sustainable future. Informed choice is at the heart of all environmental
action. Changing our behaviour may not lead to immediate benefits, however
benefits accrue and increase over time. As an example, full acceptance of humaninduced climate change is not necessary to appreciate that generating power from
wind, sea or sun is a lot more sustainable and cleaner than burning fossil fuels.
Investing in clean fuels now will be cheaper than trying to convert our economy in the
future. If we act now we will be in the desirable position of encouraging and
supporting new industries which will lead to wealth creation and knowledge. If we
wait we will have to buy the products from someone else at a premium. One way to
exert influence is through our own choices.
The relationship between Council and the community is one of its greatest assets for
developing and implementing projects, and therefore community relationships are at
the centre of the Natural Environment Strategy. Resources are limited consequently
relationships and partnership with neighbouring councils, state government, agencies
and the private sector are vital to securing financial and human resources for
projects. To effectively support local interests Council needs to show leadership,
both symbolically and practically. Relationships need to be fostered and developed
to build and maintain the partnerships required to deliver on-ground projects and
outcomes.
To meet the challenge of climate change, the community will need to be cohesive
and flexible. The dramatic changes as a result of changing climatic conditions will
require us all to be open to changes to the way we live. These may be unpredictable
changes in lifestyle or economy and they may be positive or negative.
Asking people to change their attitudes or the way they live has the potential to
undermine our sense of order and puts social cohesion at risk, particularly if there are
no new values or certainties that people can adopt and share.
Council’s Natural Environment Strategy places great emphasis on community
engagement and facilitation as a means of achieving social cohesion and
sustainability. Through leadership and facilitation Council can help build on already
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19
strong local community values to help our community through this period of
transition.
The Victorian community has many well-developed social structures that embody
shared values. These social structures have seen this community deal with
challenges in the past, such as bushfire, drought and economic depression. While
we value individual freedoms, we are all dependent upon our social networks,
government service structures and economic markets/logistics that ensure our dayto-day needs are met. There is a compromise between individualism and an
acceptable level of conformity to the group that ensures mutual survival. A
fragmented community of individuals is poorly equipped to self-organise and work
together to address emerging challenges.
Council’s Natural Environment Strategy accepts humanity’s basic tendency towards
cooperation and working in groups as the foundation of community wellbeing and
success, therefore this strategy focuses on partnerships and building community. It
also explores ways of facilitating community responsibility for decision making and
resource allocation.
The Shire’s role in trying to achieve sustainability is therefore not just about planting
more trees, reducing energy or using water efficiently, but facilitating and maintaining
strong social and community bonds between individuals and groups so we can work
together and support each other in the face of significant challenges.
Implementation of the Natural Environment Strategy sets out to achieve the following:





high community capacity to respond to change and to participate in
shaping the future.
an optimistic healthy, vibrant community, with strong networks and
communication pathways.
knowledgeable and empowered community that values and appreciates its
natural assets with the capacity to make wise management decisions.
robust, diverse sustainable local economy.
local leadership in environmental education.
2.6 Legislative framework
The Natural Environment Strategy is set in the context of international,
Commonwealth and Victorian legislation and policies. It is also closely related to
many other Council policies and the Planning Scheme.
It is beyond the scope of this document to fully explain all these pieces of
environmental legislation and policy. A brief description of the intent and scope of
environmental laws and policies is provided in Appendix 1 to give some indication of
the framework in which the Strategy is set.
Environmental laws are generally the responsibility of the State and Territory
governments. Thus, there is a wide range of Victorian legislation relating to
environmental issues that the Council must take into account. The federal
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government has considerable responsibility for national and international matters,
expressed mainly through the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation
Act 1999.
2.7 Local policy context
The Natural Environment Strategy interacts substantially with many pre-existing
Council policies, strategies and initiatives. Links with other strategies need to be
progressively strengthened as the principles on which the Strategy is based are
incorporated into all aspects of the Council’s activities.
At the Council level, the Natural Environment Strategy falls under the Shire’s
overarching policy documents, the Macedon Ranges Shire Vision 2025 and the
Council Plan. This policy framework has guided the Natural Environment Advisory
Committee in developing the Strategy.
Extracts from the Vision 2025 are presented below.
“Our Vision
To be one of Australia’s leading and most inspired regions by providing the
opportunity and balance required for all to live a fulfilling life, whilst protecting our
heritage, environment and sense of community.” (2025 Vision for Macedon Ranges)
“Our Mission: What we will do to achieve our Vision
 Engage in a partnership with the community, the business sector, other
Councils, levels of government and agencies to enhance the overall health
and well being of our community.
 Embrace the leadership role we have within this community to facilitate
engagement and participation of our citizens and their understanding of what
we are doing.
 Provide a local response to global issues and work actively with our residents,
business community and relevant agencies to raise broad environmental
awareness and understanding.
 Provide physical assets such as roads, footpaths, drains, buildings and public
amenities which are the fundamental infrastructure of a community and
facilitate safe, healthy and equitable access and service delivery for our
community and visitors.”
(2025 Vision for Macedon Ranges)
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“Guiding Principles
We will be stewards of:

healthy, vibrant and resilient communities

the beauty, tranquillity & biodiversity of our Natural Environment

economic vitality derived from sustainable principles

a governance culture that is life-nourishing and collaborative.”
(2025 Vision for Macedon Ranges)
Values
“Awareness - We are aware of all the attributes of our environment and the great
potential that offers. We value our strong sense of community, our heritage, the air
we breathe and the seasons that we experience”.
“The Rich Fabric - We value the rich fabric that makes our area what it is. We value
our farmland and the biodiversity of our forests. We value the individual personalities
of our towns and villages. We value our people. We value the significance of our
heritage, rural landscapes, natural environment, gardens, Hanging Rock and Mount
Macedon”.
“Our Home - The area provides everything that we need to live the life that we want.
It is our place, our community. We feel safe here. We will protect and preserve it. It is
our home”.
“Deep Connection - We feel connected, a sense of belonging. It is part of us and we
are a part of it. The unique beauty, peace and tranquillity of the area continually
nourish us”.
These lead to:
“Our Promise - To be one of Australia’s leading and most inspired regions by
providing the opportunity and balance required for all to live a fulfilling life, whilst
protecting our heritage, environment and sense of community”.
(2025 Vision for Macedon Ranges)
There are a range of other documents at the same level of Council policy as the
Natural Environment Strategy, some important examples being the Health and Wellbeing Plan, the Municipal Strategic Statement, the Roadside Management Plan and
the Fire Prevention Strategy Plan. Appendix 1 provides more information about
these documents. These strategies and policies complement one another, but there
is potential for disagreement or even conflict between them. For example roadsides
often contain precious remnant vegetation but there can be competing demands with
trying to achieve road safety or fire prevention objectives.
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3. Strategy implementation, monitoring and
review
3.1 Implementing the Strategy
As Council’s predominant environmental document, this Strategy will be implemented
through the application of its policies and strategic directions in Council decisions,
through Council’s strategic corporate planning and budget allocation processes, and
through the implementation of the Programs and Actions within the nine themes (Part
B, below). These actions will be progressively included in the Council Plan.
Figure 2 indicates how the Natural Environment Strategy fits into Council’s planning
process.
It is clear that to fully achieve all the aims of this Natural Environment Strategy will
require far more resources than the Council has available. We must continue to gain
resources through grants, partnerships and by strongly advocating for works by other
government agencies to be undertaken in our Shire. Many programs are undertaken
in collaboration with external organisations and agencies. Council will continue to
strive to develop and support partnerships with community groups, volunteers and
government agencies to develop and implement the Strategy. Individuals can
possibly make the greatest contribution of all by adopting environmentally
responsible lifestyles and land management practices.
The commitments to action in the Natural Environment Strategy will be translated into
the lists of agreed actions for each coming financial year that are published in
Council’s annual Plan. Budget allocations will be provided where required through
the annual budget process.
The Environmental Services Department has a major role in implementing many of
the action commitments listed in the Strategy. Other Council officers, particularly the
Planning, and Parks and Recreation Departments, will also be involved in many
actions.
Implementation of the Sustainability Framework will ensure that all Council
departments and contractors will assess and address the environmental
consequences of their operations. The re-invigorated Green Keepers working group
will continue to raise environmental awareness of Council Officers, identify training
needs, and improve Council’s environmental performance
.
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Council’s strategic planning process
Council Plan – four goals:
• Sustainable Development
• Community Well-being
• Sustainable Environment & Infrastructure
• Responsible Governance
Strategies
Natural
Environment
Strategy
Planning
Scheme
including
Municipal
Strategic
Statement
Health &
Well-being
Plan
Actions eg.
Landscape Units;
Greenhouse
Action Plan
(including, but not limited to the following)
Economic
Development
Strategy
Council Plan
Annual Actions
Annual Budget
Figure 2. Council’s Strategic Planning Process
MACEDON RANGES SHIRE
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Leisure
Strategy
Plan
Asset
Management
Strategy
Fire
Prevention
Strategy
Plan
We also rely heavily on our local community groups to act in partnership with the
Council on many environmental projects. Individuals, businesses, and government
agencies all have their responsibilities and opportunities. Without their cooperation
and proper contributions the goals cannot be achieved, and the Strategy will be
greatly weakened.
The term of Council’s second Natural Environment Advisory Committee expired in
November 2008 and its contribution to the development of the renewed Natural
Environment Strategy is gratefully acknowledged. The newly elected Council will
consider whether to appoint a new Advisory Committee and if so, will determine the
charter for guiding the committee’s activities.
3.2 Measuring success
A range of environmental, social and economic data can be analysed and combined
to show indicators or measures of sustainability and progress towards achieving
Strategy objectives.
Sources of data include Catchment Management Authorities and State and Federal
government departments for environmental information, and ‘Community Indicators
Victoria’ for social data. Council also collects relevant data, such as flora and fauna
surveys, roadside vegetation mapping or energy and water use.
Ecological indicators:
 Index of River Condition and Index of Stream Condition
 Wetland condition mapping and reporting
 WaterWatch water quality data
 Regional Salinity Report
 Distribution of acid sulphate soils
 Environmental flows
 Bird Atlas
 Frog Census
 Fish Census
 Native vegetation mapping - extent and quality
 Rare and Threatened Species measures
 Landcare and Friends group health
 Distribution of pest plants and animals
 Land clearing/native vegetation removal planning permits issued.
 Illegal native vegetation clearing.
Resource use indicators
 Council water and energy consumption
 Community water and energy consumption
 Use of renewable energy
 Generation of renewable energy
 Greywater use and
 Wastewater recycling
 Use of water tanks in urban areas.
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25



Household waste recycling
Waste to landfill volumes
Land use data
Economic Indicators
 New business openings
 Existing business growth
 Tourist visitation
Community wellbeing indicators
 Feeling part of the community
 Volunteering
 Perceptions of safety
 Transport limitations
Council will consider data relevant to the Shire, monitor trends and develop programs to
address issues that arise.
Specific success measures are included in each of the environmental Themes in Part B.
3.3 Monitoring, reporting and review
Measuring progress makes it possible to assess success and efficiency. Without
monitoring and review it is quite possible to waste time, money and resources.
Feeding the results back into planning means that continuous improvement can be
made.
Adaptive management will be essential to adequately implement the Natural
Environment Strategy. Thus, the Strategy needs to be a ‘living document’. We need
to keep checking the indicators, reviewing our progress, and deciding whether an
alternative route would be better. Because the Natural Environment Strategy
encompasses issues across the whole of the Council’s organisation, and throughout
the wider community, an effective internal and external structure that monitors the
performance of the Strategy needs to be established. This reporting framework is
built into the Programs and actions within the nine themes detailed in Part B.
Progress on actions will be reported to Council and the community through Council’s
Annual Report. Annual commitment to environmental works will be reported to the
community through the Council Plan and annual Budget.
If Council chooses to establish a new Natural Environment Advisory Committee, this
committee will have an important role in advising Council on the effective
implementation of this Strategy.
Every four years a comprehensive review of the Natural Environment Strategy will be
undertaken. The first review will be undertaken in 2013. The Programs and Actions
within the nine themes will be reviewed every two years, or as required to be
responsive to evolving needs.
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The monitoring and review process will provide an opportunity to acknowledge the
achievements, discuss the reasons for any shortfalls, decide on how to improve
matters, and make the necessary adjustments.
Success depends on the whole community being informed and involved. Reporting
needs to be full, wide and open.
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4. Macedon Ranges Shire - a rich
environmental and cultural landscape
This chapter puts the Macedon Ranges Shire into context. It provides a perspective
on both the natural and human history of the Shire, and discusses some of the
challenges for ecological sustainability. Our interactions with land are based on the
values and assumptions we derive from our culture, as well as the impacts of forces
of nature beyond our control. Cultural values and assumptions come to us from the
past and our ancestors. What worked then may no longer work now or conversely,
some of our contemporary ideas of individual freedom may be better replaced by
older community values. An understanding of our natural and cultural environments,
and the way our landscapes came to be, are crucial parts of learning to live
sustainably within them.
The Macedon Ranges Shire has an area of approximately 1750 square km and is
located midway between Melbourne and Bendigo. It has a population of around
38,000. The Shire’s natural environment is very diverse, with contrasting landscape
features such as the mountainous areas of the Great Dividing Range including Mt
Macedon, volcanic eruption points at Hanging Rock, Bald Hill and Mt Bullengarook,
and the grassy, flat volcanic plains around Gisborne and Lancefield. Major assets of
the Shire include forested hills, native grasslands, productive soils, spectacular
landscapes and mineral springs. The Figure 3 shows the main natural areas and
townships of the Shire.
4.1 The Dividing Range
The Macedon Ranges Shire is split almost evenly by the Great Dividing
Range that separates coastal catchments from the catchments that drain to the
Murray. Thus, the Shire is split by differing land management and conservation
priorities. To the north we must consider the impact land use and water
management has on the drought stricken Murray-Darling basin. To the south
increasing urban development, demands for water and rural residential subdivision
pose different challenges.
4.2 Two iconic landscapes
The Macedon Range and Hanging Rock sit at the centre of the Shire. These sites
are the geographic and symbolic heart of the region. Council has the Macedon
Range and Hanging Rock as its logo, emphasising the symbolic value of these sites
to this community. The logo is not only a reflection of the geography. It is a
reflection of the priority the community gives to the protection and enhancement of
the natural environment. Through this Strategy, Council strives to meet community
expectations for stewardship of the natural environment.
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Macedon Ranges Shire
Figure 3. Topographic Map of the Macedon Ranges Shire
MACEDON RANGES SHIRE
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The Macedon Range rises dramatically from the surrounding plains and low rolling
hills. When travelling through the Shire we are rewarded daily with views of the
range in constantly changing light and weather as they accompany us through
seasonal moods. On Mount Macedon, the Memorial Cross commemorates the
sacrifices and suffering of Australian service men and women and their families. In
this tranquil natural setting it is easy to reflect on the beautiful diversity of the
surrounding landscape and how fortunate we are to live in such a place. It is difficult
to take on the responsibility of stewardship and achieving sustainability for the benefit
of future generations, however the memorial can inspire a sense of determination to
achieve a peaceful transformation.
Looking from the Mount there is a landscape of ancient folded terrain, once a sea
bed, flattened in places by lava flows and cut with gorges by rivers. The Macedon
Range itself is the remnant of an explosive volcanic caldera. Evidence of the
achievements and challenges of our settler society can be seen; with forests, plains,
waterways, towns, farms, roads and rail spreading to the horizon. The European
settlement patterns that have fragmented remnant native grasslands, woodlands and
forests filter but do not fully obscure the strong shaping influence of the traditional
owners, the Wurundjeri and Dja Dja Wurrung/Jarra. It is a landscape rich in human
connection and one that has a role for people in its care and stewardship.
To Mount Macedon’s north sits Hanging Rock which, to this day, sparks our
imagination. As the setting for the story Picnic at Hanging Rock by Joan Lindsay,
this striking geographic feature provides a significant link between a growing
appreciation of our Australian environment and our developing culture and society.
The story of Picnic at Hanging Rock is not one of people in harmony with the
environment. Young girls and their teacher vanish and the environment is portrayed
as a place of menace beyond the grasp of our understanding. Their disappearance
can be read as a loss of innocence as the surviving characters recoil against a
growing awareness of the challenge of living in the Australian environment and with
its indigenous peoples. The challenge posed by this story is to move forward and to
find ways to live harmoniously in this land.
Contemporary Elders of the Wurundjeri welcome visitors to their country and ask us
to be open to a partnership and a shared responsibility for the caring of their land. If
we share the benefits of this country they say, our interests merge with Wurundjeri as
does our shared responsibility for the land’s sustainable management. This invitation
to share the responsibility is repeated by Indigenous Australians across the country.
By the time the film ‘Picnic at Hanging Rock’ was released in 1975, the broad-acre
clearing of forest on private land in the region had ceased. The former Shire of
Romsey had purchased the Mt William Greenstone Axe Quarry for its preservation.
Blackhill Reserve was created by the former Shire of Kyneton and the community
had begun rehabilitating its former quarry. A shift in community values and attitudes
in the 1970s helped lead to the creation of the Statement of Planning Policy No.8.
This policy gives consistent planning protection to the Macedon Range and
surrounding countryside.
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4.3 Waterways and Catchments
In winter the moist landscape of green forested hills and verdant plains of the
Macedon Ranges Shire belie what is, for much of the year, a dry, and in places arid,
landscape. Even in wet years most of the waterways in the Macedon Ranges stop
flowing or reduce significantly over summer. The drought conditions that have
weighed upon Australia for over a decade have almost reduced permanent
waterways in the Shire to ephemeral streams where even a gentle flow is viewed as
significant.
Traditionally, Easter marked a point where an ‘Autumn Break’ could be expected and
soaking winter rains would blanket the landscape, filling dams and reservoirs to
overflowing. Excess water was regarded as a serious problem as ‘ground water
recharge’ caused watertables to rise bringing with it salt and land degradation to low
lying areas.
Since 1994, the region has experienced consistently low rainfall. Reservoirs that
once supplied Bendigo, Gisborne and Sunbury now have consistently low volumes of
between 15% and 4% capacity. These major towns are no longer supplied from local
reservoirs. As part of major infrastructure projects, pipelines have been constructed
from reservoirs on the upper Murray and Yarra catchments, redirecting water to this
region.
The climate record of the past decade shows consistently warmer temperatures and
a 20% reduction in rainfall. The combined impact of these changes on water flows in
catchments is far greater than could be expected at first glance with a 40% reduction
of inflows being observed3. The ‘missing’ water is taken up by evaporation and any
that soaks into soil is utilised by vegetation. Soils rarely reach a point where they
become saturated. Once saturated excess water is passed on to waterways, so it is
saturated soils that help provide for consistent environmental flows in waterways.
Farm dams also reduce environmental flows to waterways and reservoirs. With
property sizes shrinking in the Macedon Ranges Shire, the number of small farm
dams has proliferated. Melbourne Water research in the Hoddles Creek and
Diamond Creek catchments has shown that losses of flows in these waterways due
to dams is in the range of 2 Megalitres of lost environmental flow for every 1
Megalitre of dam volume4. In times of drought, the impact of farm dams on
environmental flows is exacerbated.
Dams are required for many productive land uses, however there are many dams
that exist for aesthetic or ‘lifestyle’ purposes. This latter category of dam causes more
damage to catchments than the benefits they provide. Dams are very inefficient tools
for collecting and storing water. Small properties could access more clean and
secure water supplies by investing in tanks and by increasing roof space for water
harvesting.
3
Technical Report 2007 - Climate Change in Australia
4 The Impact of Farm Dams on Hoddles Creek and Diamond Creek Catchments, 2000, Sinclair Knight
Merz Pty. Ltd, for Melbourne Water.
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Other impacts on catchments and water supplies include excessive use of domestic
and stock water rights to bore as well as ‘un-metered’ creek pumping for nonproductive purposes. There are also a number of in-stream dams in the Shire.
These are all licensed and unless they are very old, should have been constructed
with Council planning approval.
Sufficient rain has fallen through this drought period to ensure the survival of much of
the vegetation in the landscape. However, there are signs of stress. Council has
experienced problems keeping exotic street trees alive and healthy. Lower rainfall
has impacted on the viability of broad acre grazing agriculture, although it has
created some cropping opportunities. In bushland many dead eucalypts are in
evidence, and changes in rainfall patterns are expected to reduce growing seasons
and negatively impact on the long term survival of some species.
Aquatic environments are the most severely impacted as environmental flows in
waterways dwindle. A variety of flows, including flooding or active rapids are
required for the lifecycle of many invertebrates and fish. Many species struggle to
reproduce without significant environmental flows. Species that depend on
invertebrates will in turn struggle to find adequate food sources. Waterways with low
flows are also more likely to suffer issues with water quality. Overall, a reduction in
environmental flows undermines the resilience of aquatic ecosystems.
For example, throughout the summer of 2008 treated water from the Gisborne Waste
Water treatment plant has not been flushed through the system due to low
environmental flows in the Jacksons Creek. This has led to high levels of nutrients in
the waterway. In combination with warmer summer weather, Jacksons Creek has
been affected by a protracted blue-green algal bloom. This is a major concern owing
to the toxicity of Blue-green algae to people and livestock.
We may be able to supply our water needs through engineering solutions such
desalination plants, but we will not be able to supply water for the whole environment.
It is one thing to become accustomed to creeks that rarely flow, yet another to be
confronted by perennially dry creeks or extensive stands of dead trees. If Climate
Change develops as predicted we will need to consider the prospect that the natural
systems around us will change dramatically for the worse and that the landscape
change will offer a visually confronting image everywhere we look.
Water is critical to all aspects of our lives and globally it will be access to water that
will be one of the forces that drive governments to address climate change. Council
and residents can make a contribution at a local level by reducing carbon emissions
and water usage and by investing in water recycling and efficient capturing methods.
4.4 Soils
Soils form the interface between the parent rock and the atmosphere. This interface
is a relatively thin association of sand, silt and clay particles, water, air and fauna and
flora, which together form a dynamic and sensitive natural system.
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The soils of the Macedon Ranges Shire are diverse in number and character. Soils
are the product of in situ weathering of parent material (residual soils), erosion and
deposition (alluvial and colluvial soils), and past and present climate.
Four main parent materials occur throughout the Shire and these contain typical soil
profiles in association with topography and rainfall:
1. On the marine sedimentary rocks of Ordovician Period (505 to 440 million
years old) residual soils with a duplex profile are prevalent. A duplex profile is
defined as where silts, sands and gravels overlie clays which then grade into
less weathered parent rock. They have low fertilities and are often dispersive
which makes them prone to erosion. These soils occur predominantly in the
central and south-western portion of the Shire around Ashbourne, Woodend
and Macedon.
2. On the plutonic rocks of Devonian Period (410 to 360 million years old)
residual soils with duplex and gradational profiles are prevalent. A duplex and
gradational profile occurs where the silts, sands or silty clays grade into clays
which grade into less weathered parent rock. In the Mount Macedon area
where rainfall is relatively high, deep and fertile red earths (Krasnozems) are
common. These soils occur from Sidonia in the north to Mount Macedon in
the central region. In the Pipers Creek area, where granitic parent material
prevails, the soils tend to be duplex and of similar character to those soils with
sedimentary parent material.
3. On the basalt rocks of Quaternary Period (1.8 million years old to present)
residual soils range from duplex, uniform and gradational profiles containing
reactive clays with high shrink-swell potentials to profiles containing red
(oxidized) clays. The black and grey, highly reactive clays have very poor
hydraulic properties, and high shrink-swell potential. Although they are
inherently fertile, they require extensive agricultural management. The red
clays have similar properties to the Krasnozems, described above, and are
used for the growing of potatoes and grapes throughout the Shire. These
Quaternary Basalts are seen around Kyneton in the northwest and in the
southeast from Gisborne to Lancefield
4. Alluvial and colluvial soils are deposited along drainage lines and at the base
of slopes and are extremely diverse. The alluvial soils are often highly fertile,
particularly if the deposited material is derived from basaltic weathering
residues. The colluvial and alluvial materials range from sands and gravels to
silts to clays and have highly variable engineering and agricultural properties.
The colluvial soils are typically highly dispersive and prone to erosion. Alluvial
soils dominate the major drainage lines, particularly around Lancefield and
Woodend.
As can be seen from the above descriptions, the majority of the soils are highly
weathered with a wide variation in soil type and quality across the Shire. Highly
productive agricultural soils have a very limited distribution in the Shire.
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Land capability mapping has categorised the productive capacity of the Shire’s soils.
More specific information about land capability mapping is available from the Council.
4.5 Biodiversity: Our unique and fragile natural heritage
Biodiversity describes the myriad of life forms that co-exist and interact in mutually
supportive ways to form complex self-perpetuating ecosystems. All life depends on
healthy, functioning ecosystems. Human technological development has given us
tools to transform and manipulate natural systems to produce food and fibre to meet
the needs of human society. But as our population and power to modify the natural
world has grown, the naturally biodiverse ecosystems of the world have diminished.
We are learning that as these diverse ecosystems diminish, so too does the ability of
ecosystems to provide the basic ‘Ecosystem Services’ such as clean water, clean air,
medicines and the pollination of food crops upon which we all depend.
“Over the last 200 years, elements of Australia's biodiversity have declined and
some species of mammals, birds, frogs and plants are presumed to have
become extinct. Mammals particularly have been affected, with 27 species that
lived in continental Australia at the time of European settlement in 1788, now
presumed extinct under the EPBC Act. Ten of those species have been lost
since 1900. This compares with 23 extinct birds from about 700 species, four
extinct frogs from over 200 species, and 61 extinct flowering plants from over
15,000 species.”5 .
People can make complex machines and genetically engineer characteristics of
plants and animals, but we cannot replace an organism that is the product of millions
of years of evolution. Similarly we cannot recreate complex ecosystems. Having
pushed natural systems towards their limits we are now challenged to use our
intelligence and creativity to preserve and rehabilitate these systems both for our own
survival and because we have no justification to cause extinctions of other species.
Australia’s unique plant and animal life has travelled and evolved with the land since
Australia split from Antarctica, South America and Africa, 80-100 million years ago.
Even the traditional Aboriginal owners of land in the Macedon Ranges Shire, the Dja
Dja Wurrung and Wurundjeri are only relatively recent newcomers (40-60,000 years)
compared with the kangaroo grass, platypus or eucalypts.
The patterns of vegetation are those best adapted to the fundamental map of our
landscape. As examples, Broad-leaved Peppermint and Long-leaved Box grow on
harsh sedimentary hills. Manna Gums trace the waterways and volcanic stony rises,
Swamp Gums favour waterlogged depressions or Basalt Plains whilst Yellow Gum
and Yellow Box indicate harsh infertile sediments or granite derived soils. Messmate
and Narrow-leaf Peppermint hug moist slopes. Grey Box and Candlebark dot the
Basalt Plains, changing with subtle variations of soil type or fire history.
The Shire’s remnant vegetation also tells the story of human use. Our most
endangered ecosystems, Grasslands and Plains Grassy Woodlands, are those most
5
Australian Bureau of Statistics Year Book Australia 2007
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favoured for agriculture. They may also have been the most favoured by the
Aboriginal people, whose fires helped keep the plains open for staple foods such as
murrnong (yam daisy) and kangaroos. The most extensive remnant vegetation
remains on soils too steep or poor to farm, or forests set aside for timber production
and owned by the community (Crown Land). Important smaller fragments of
grassland or woodland can be found across the Shire on public and private land.
The fauna of the region follow their own paths, relying on niches in vegetation types
and changes of season to lead them to food. Vegetation clearance, roads and towns
place obstacles to their movements across the landscape. Many birds will not cross
open spaces, but koalas, echidnas or wallabies have less fear of movement and
whilst moving across roads or between fragments of remnant vegetation they are
exposed to attacks from foxes, cats and dogs. Vehicle traffic results in many dead
animals on the sides of roads. Each death can weaken the local populations of
wildlife.
Much of the Shire’s fauna is relatively common, such as Eastern Grey Kangaroo and
Eastern Rosellas. Nevertheless, we should not take their current numbers for
granted. All species depend on sufficient areas of viable habitat for survival and
further fragmentation of their habitat will lead to the decline of many species. This
process can be seen with the once-common Koala. The Koala population in the
Macedon Range has been monitored since the 1970s, with the research showing a
steep decline that will see the Koala become rare, if not locally extinct. Many factors
contribute to this process including loss of habitat, vehicular traffic, predation from
dogs, disease and wildfires.
There are other examples of declining fauna populations. It is believed a recent
control burn in Hanging Rock has caused inadvertent damage to habitat. There have
been no recent sightings of the Greater Glider in the Hanging Rock Reserve. The
fire, coupled with pressure from its natural predator the Powerful Owl, may have
resulted in the loss of Greater Glider from the Reserve. No sightings of Bandicoots
have been made in the Macedon Range since a report following Ash Wednesday
fires which records a Bandicoot hair in a fox scat6.
Other threats to flora and fauna are more insidious. The incursion of weeds into
natural areas displaces indigenous plants and the suite of species they support.
Incremental clearing and loss of understorey through livestock grazing reduce
indigenous biodiversity. Accelerated climate change through human causes may see
whole ecosystems being displaced from their current area. Ways of minimising the
damage to our Shire’s biodiversity must be developed in the face of these threats. In
many areas the community and government have made active changes to protect
and increase areas of habitat, but much more work is required.
It is hard to imagine what our landscape would be like without the distinctive plants
and animals that give it life. Where would we be without the sounds of birds in the
6
Macedon Range Environmental Report: Recommendations and Conclusions, Appendix A. 1985 C.
Elkington, M. Higginson, I. Lunt, B. Mangan, S. Thornton. Macedon Range Conservation Society.
Page 17
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morning or evening? It is our choice to embrace the diversity of our unique natural
heritage as part of our local cultural identity and to defend and preserve it.
A keystone of an integrated program to secure biodiversity is to ensure large areas
are managed to retain biologically diverse natural systems. The larger the area, the
more the system is self-managing and sustainable. Small fragments of biodiversity
are less likely to be self-sustaining and are more exposed to threats, and smaller
fragments cost more to maintain.
Relative to other areas of Victoria, Macedon Ranges Shire retains large areas of
native vegetation in good condition, with much of it on private land. Biodiversity in
the Shire directly underpins much of the local economy including tourism and
agriculture. The environment provides a range of ecosystem services. Catchments
provide clean water, forests clean air and soils produce food or help treat domestic
wastewater in rural residential areas. The quality of the natural environment is also a
feature that attracts people to live here.
Because much of the native vegetation in the Shire is in good condition, the
community and Council have a great opportunity to secure the existing ecosystem.
Council has some powers to enforce measures to protect biodiversity, however it is
more effective to foster an understanding of the value of biodiversity and to build
lasting partnerships with landowners. Already, many residents manage and care for
biodiversity using their own resources without any subsidy or incentives.
In the future biodiversity will have an increasing economic value, therefore efforts
made now to protect biodiversity will benefit private landowners with flow-on effects
for our local economy. The economic value of biodiversity can be described and
measured in several ways including carbon offsets and ecosystem services.
Currently there are limited incentives to encourage landowners to invest in the
sustainable management of biodiversity and ecosystems. Markets are being
progressively developed where land managers can trade on the value of the natural
assets under their stewardship. Examples in Victoria include Bush Tender, Carbon
Tender and Bush Broker which are managed through the Department of
Sustainability and Environment. Such a market approach will increasingly see land
managers gain financial benefits for managing natural resources for the benefit of the
whole community.
Markets in ecosystem services cannot solely solve the problems which lead to the
loss of biodiversity, especially as these markets are new and still in development.
Direct incentives to land-owners from government or private sector are still vital tools
to ensure further biodiversity losses are prevented. Key activities include fencing of
remnant vegetation, revegetation, regeneration, pest plant and animal management
and flora and fauna surveys. Council has an important role to deliver incentives to
landowners for biodiversity protection and enhancement.
Government investment will help to ensure there is a representative network of
reserves that protect a broad range of habitats and species. There are opportunities
to create new conservation reserves within the Shire to protect areas of endangered
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or vulnerable native vegetation in partnership with the community and other
agencies.
The threats to biodiversity and ecology are well documented in Australia, but the
losses continue. Potentially, mass extinction of species is intertwined with climate
change. For mankind, this poses a different set of risks requiring a different and
equally immediate response. We must manage, protect and enhance existing
biodiversity and ecosystems. Council has a role to educate the community in the
value of biodiversity and to help the community protect and enhance the natural
assets with which this Shire is so richly endowed.
4.6 Maps and living culture
Overlying the geological and vegetation maps are the values of Aboriginal and nonindigenous culture. The country of the two major Aboriginal groups within the Shire,
the Wurundjeri and the Dja Dja Wurrung merge along the Great Divide. The Dja Dja
Wurrung identify with the waters flowing to the north, Wurundjeri with the waters
flowing to the south.
Across the landscape are ancient paths connecting the coast with the inland that
follow patterns of climate and culture. There are no road cuttings or European-style
signposts to mark these routes, but there are important signs. These include the Mt
William stone axe quarry, campsites with stone tools on the river flats, scar trees and
campfire mounds. Instead of maps and pegs in the ground, the indigenous peoples
traced their way with complex songs and stories. Names of places tell small
fragments of the Aboriginal story and traditional ownership. These include
Monegeetta, Jim Jim, Konagaderra Creek, Maribyrnong River, Darraweit Guim,
Bullengarook, Willimigongon Creek, Barringo, Woiwurung Creek and Wurundjeri
Creek.
Indigenous people continue to be active in caring for their country in the Macedon
Ranges Shire. The Mt William stone axe quarry is managed by the Wurundjeri, and
indigenous people are employed by Parks Victoria and other businesses concerned
with the land.
Many publications and policies refer to ‘European settlement’ as if it were a coherent
process of white people of English origin transplanting their culture. While our
political system could be regarded as European, evolving from the Magna Carta, our
population has always been made up of many immigrant groups. The Chinese
trekked to the Victorian goldfields from South Australia to avoid customs duties
based on racial discrimination. There have been waves of immigration from Asia,
Europe, Africa, the Middle East and South America. Many have been refugee
emigrants from the wars in the 20th century. The harvesters and other farm
labourers who populated the countryside before tractors came from various ethnic
origins. Many of these people have made their homes in the Shire, educated their
families and contributed towards our prosperity. They provide different perspectives
on the environment and its management.
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The ways in which indigenous and non-indigenous groups view the land vary
significantly. The broad landscape of Aboriginal country may, from an outsider’s
point of view, be regarded as ‘the house’ of a whole nation, where no person owns
land and individual needs are met across the physical and spiritual landscape, within
a community. The non-indigenous settlement map could be seen as a series of
rushes (land and gold), temporary settlements and then more substantial structures
based around setting up many ‘houses’ for individual families on a framework of
individual land ownership secured in our law.
On one hand, this European model helps secure individual property and provides
significant opportunities. It has also led to poor planning where straight lines divide
land, ignoring the geological, spiritual or landscape maps that can show the straight
line to be irrational. The system of property ownership places responsibility for land
management largely on individuals. This reliance on individual rather than
community values sees vastly different land management practices, often leading to
the environmental problems that this Strategy seeks to address.
Council must work in partnership with others to achieve our aim. For example, much
of the work of Landcare is rebuilding some of the vital habitat links to benefit
biodiversity. This work moves beyond individual aspirations to meet current and
future ecological and community needs.
Our challenge is to balance land management for both human use and the needs of
other species. Is it possible to allow the expression of individual aspirations for land
management, productive agriculture and ecologically sustainable lifestyles while
enhancing and retaining the broad landscape links that provide room for other forms
of life and allow for the continuation of ancient ecological processes and
relationships?
4.7 Land settlement
Early land use in the Shire was driven by pastoralists seeking land for grazing.
Historically, sheep farming brought the greatest agricultural wealth to the Shire.
Cattle and cropping also contributed significantly. Around Kyneton the old bluestone
mills attest to the importance of cropping, but it was quickly shown to be an
unsustainable industry. The livestock saleyards and abattoir that continue in Kyneton
also show the importance of agriculture to the local economy and community.
Romsey and Lancefield also had agriculture as their economic base, with the crest of
the old Shire of Romsey including symbols of sheep, cattle and cropping.
Around Tylden, dense forest was cleared to make way for pasture and horticulture,
including potato farming. Clearing of forest for agriculture in this area continued up to
the 1950s. The Baynton and Sidonia area has a drier climate. The rolling granite
hills and vast spaces provide one of the most dramatic landscapes in the Shire. The
original vegetation communities consisted of grassland and open grassy woodland
which did not require significant clearing to begin grazing. Grazing remains the main
agricultural land use in this area, along with well-established vineyards and farm
forestry.
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Prior to the 1980’s agricultural land use was dominant whereas today significant
areas of the Shire have been converted to rural residential land uses. The
transformation has been rapid and with land use change has come cultural changes
as well. Council fully acknowledges the contribution farming families in the
agricultural sector have and continue to make towards sustainable land management
and maintenance of communities.
With Melbourne so close, there remain significant opportunities for agricultural
production to play an important role in the local economy. To take advantage of
these opportunities there needs to be a coordinated approach to agricultural industry
development that is suited to the regions soils and climate. Water and fragmentation
of large farms remains a significant barrier to development, but there is significant
space for innovation that is yet to be explored.
4.8 Gold routes
The routes of gold have provided the strongest force for the development of towns,
railways and major roads in the Shire. Gold rushes of the 1850s remain the
foundation of the economic wealth of Victoria, providing the funds for much of our
initial infrastructure and economy. Gisborne, Woodend, Malmsbury and Kyneton are
towns on the route to the goldfields in Bendigo. The main road through Romsey and
Lancefield developed as a track to the Heathcote and Rushworth goldfields. Before
local councils were established, roads were tolled to raise funds for construction and
maintenance. Monegeetta was in part established as a toll station where views
across the plains helped prevent travellers from slipping past.
As other industries developed along these roads and gold mining waned, these
towns became service centres and transport nodes for agriculture and forestry. With
an increasingly efficient road system and expanding population, the largely rural
demographic to the south of the Divide is altering towards people seeking a rural
lifestyle, while working in urban Melbourne. The original route to the Bendigo
goldfields still remains the growth corridor of the Shire; it is where most of the
infrastructure has been established, and where the economic traffic flows.
4.9 Forests and timber
The Wombat, Cobaw and Macedon Range forests have provided timber and water
catchments that are vital to communities and the culture of the Shire. Initial resource
use in these forests was not controversial to European settlers. However, as
knowledge has developed of the importance of forests for protecting biodiversity and
water catchments, providing carbon sinks and areas for recreation or spiritual
rejuvenation, so has conflict over the level of timber harvesting. Timber harvesting
has now ceased across all local areas of State Forest including the Pyrete Range,
Cobaw Forest, Wombat Forest and Macedon Range. Reserves in the Mount
Macedon area have been consolidated into the Macedon Regional Park and the
Pyrete Range has been incorporated into the Lerderderg State Park.
As community values and expectations evolve, so too will the management of these
forests. The development of plantation forestry may reduce pressure on forests on
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public land across Victoria; a tourist or biodiversity economy may become more
valuable than extractive forestry on Crown Land. Alternatively, the management
skills of foresters on public land may continue to improve, to ensure that conservation
and timber harvesting are compatible activities.
4.10 Our way of life in a global context
It is difficult to quantify where our daily way of life stands in the context of achieving
sustainability. A method that gives a relative scale to our current day to day mode of
living is to assign ourselves an ‘ecological footprint’. This is a measure of the area of
the Earth’s resources (food, energy, water etc) that we utilise daily. Our ecological
foot print provides a challenge to innovate and find ways to maintain our quality of
life, without causing a permanent depletion in the natural systems that sustain us.
When the ecological footprint of people living in the worlds wealthiest nations is
multiplied across the world’s population, the number of ‘Earths’ required to support
the current global population can be calculated.
Ecological footprints also give an indication of social and economic imbalances as
well as an understanding of ecological limitations. People in poorer nations
legitimately aspire to improvements in their quality of life and they are working to
achieve these improvements. The more ‘Earths’ required, the greater the imbalance
in social and economic conditions across the planet. The EPA Victoria calculates
that if every person on the Earth lived as Victorians do today, 4 Earths would be
required to meet the needs of the world population7.
According to EPA Victoria’s report ‘Victoria’s Ecological Footprint’, the global average
ecological footprint is 2.2 ‘Global Hectares’ per person. The EPA measures an
ecological footprint in terms of Global Hectares (gha), which is a measure of
biologically productive space with world-average productivity. For wealthy nations
the average ecological footprint is 6.4 gha, middle income nations use an average of
1.9 gha with the poorest nations using 0.8 gha. The report states that the
‘sustainable biocapacity’ available to each person on Earth is 1.8 gha.
Measured against the world’s sustainable biocapacity 1.8 gha, humanity’s average of
2.2 gha is already exceeding the earth’s capacity to meet our needs in the long term.
With an increasing global population and aspirations in all parts of the Third world to
improve their quality of life, pursuing the model of development that the first world
has use it achieve its affluence is unsustainable.
The EPA estimates that Victoria’s average ecological footprint is 6.8 gha. The report
Victoria’s Ecological Footprint attributes this high figure to our dependence on carbon
dioxide intensive brown coal-fired power stations and the urban design of our large
cities where most people are dependent long distance car travel to work and where
we live in large and energy inefficient housing that is cooled and heated by fossil
fuels.
7
Victoria’s Ecological Footprint, Environment Protection Authority Victoria 2008
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An alternative model of sustainable development is required for us all to lift the bulk
of the world population from poverty and to reduce unsustainable and inequitable
demands made by the first world on the Earth, while at the same time maintaining
our own quality of life.
4.11 Change, time and an ecologically sustainable future
In terms of geological time or Aboriginal time, the 100 years of Federation or the 200
years of non-indigenous settlement are the tiniest flash. But with our technology and
energy sources we are able to radically transform the natural environment and
millions of years of evolution in a matter of years, or even hours. For example,
ploughing up native grassland destroys a complex and threatened ecosystem. Other
processes such as salinity or climate change are much slower, with impacts that can
only be felt over time, and as a result may not be noticed until the damage is done.
Erosion, extinction, salinity and climate change all occur naturally. The Great
Dividing Range was once much higher, but has been eroded and subsided over
millennia. The rate of change to date has been relatively slow with ecosystems
having time to adjust to these changes and their impacts. Modern use of highpowered machinery, hard-hoofed animals, the introduction of weeds, the burning of
fossil fuels and clearing of land has sped up the processes of degradation greatly
and we have only a small idea of the consequences or solutions to the problems we
cause. There is a need to apply a precautionary principle before making
fundamental changes to the environment. The precautionary principle states that
wherever there are threats of serious or irreversible environmental damage, lack of
certainty should neither be used as a reason for potentially damaging actions, nor for
postponing measures to prevent damage.
Being part of a multicultural society can help us as we look to the future. We can
learn from this diversity and understand that there are many ways for communities to
organise themselves that can help us create social cohesion in a balance with
nature. In developing environmental policy we are looking for ways of organising so
that a peaceful future for our children is preserved in a world that retains its wealth of
biodiversity and natural systems. The maps and paths of the past need to be
integrated for the future.
This Natural Environment Strategy allows us to look carefully at the issues we are
faced with and provide strategic directions and actions that will help take the
community forward.
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Part B.
Moving Towards Sustainability
Part B of the Strategy is based on nine key Themes that broadly describe the focus
of activities for Council. The scope of the Themes reflects the main environmental
issues that are of concern to the community, including biodiversity decline, climate
change, waste and recycling, and water. To achieve sustainability, action is needed
on all the Themes; the sequence does not reflect priority.
The nine key Themes provide a clear reporting framework so Council and the
community can see progress towards sustainability. Each Theme includes
background information, aim, objectives, success measures, programs and actions.
Of the nine Themes, two deal with relationships and partnerships and one with
Council’s leadership role. These three are grouped together under “Community,
Partnerships and Leadership”. The remaining six Themes relate more specifically to
environmental issues, service delivery, on-ground work and other policy initiatives.
These are grouped as “On-ground Projects and Services”.
Community, Partnerships and Leadership
1. Community consultation, communication and capacity building
2. Partnerships and advocacy
3. Council leadership
On-ground Projects and Services
4. Healthy ecosystems, sustainable land management, water quality
5. Climate change
6. Recycling, waste, air quality
7. Sustainable water use
8. Ecologically sustainable economy
9. Land use planning
Table 1. The Nine Key Themes
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B1. Community, Partnerships and
Leadership
Theme 1. Community consultation,
communication and capacity building
The natural environment is everybody’s concern. Wide community involvement is
essential if we are to make worthwhile gains in the quality and sustainability of our
living environment.
The Macedon Ranges Shire has many active volunteer groups including 30 Landcare
and Friends groups, as well as many service clubs such as Lions and Rotary that
work across a spectrum of social and environmental issues. The Macedon Ranges
Sustainability Group is undertaking a range of projects to help promote sustainability
to the community, including a community garden, film nights, debates and speakers,
and various practical initiatives.
Landcare Funding
Since 1998, Council has provided an annual $700 grant to Landcare and Friends
Groups. This basic support grant has helped groups cover costs including public
liability insurance and the cost of holding events.
Council and the community have been rewarded by active groups completing
numerous projects. Groups have attracted $100,000s in grants to the Shire for the
benefit of the environment, community well being and economy.
The most successful initiatives delivered by Council are those with a strong base of
community support and interest. For this reason, community partnerships and
leadership are the starting point for the action programs of the Strategy. Community
leadership and action are a proven strength of the Shire’s community, and should not
be taken for granted. Effective partnerships need to be developed and sustained
between Council and the community. Council is determined to engage the
community in a meaningful way and a number of initiatives are proposed to
strengthen community engagement.
Community projects are not successful by luck. Success hinges on many factors.
The example below highlights the basic formula for a successful project.
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A successful partnership
Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group initiated and managed a Green Corps project
in 2008. This project allowed the group to establish a Permaculture garden at the
Woodend Neighbourhood house and a complete range of environmental projects
across the shire. It was an outstanding success.
The success was built on the leadership and commitment of the volunteers who
managed the project. The quality of the GreenCorps team leader brought the best
out of the trainees and provided much of the drive to complete the project.
Businesses and other community groups sponsored the project by providing skills
training and materials for the project.
The Sustainability group provided office space and a volunteer project coordinator
supported the team leader day to day.
Council contributed tools, financial resources, and training and network contacts.
The Federal Government funded wages, training and management of the team.
The following elements are desirable for a successful project:
 a community group with members prepared to lead and be committed to their
objectives
 community groups with good governance and a range of active members
spreading the workload
 a well-defined project based on community needs and ideas
 a paid project leader with relevant skills to coordinate projects and work with a
diverse range of people (particularly for large scale projects)
 government and/or agency partners providing project funding and background
support
 good communications, promotion and publicity
 office space and administrative resources
 private sector sponsorship or other support.
For most environmental projects managed by Landcare and Friends groups in the
Shire, paid project staff, office resources and private sector sponsorship are absent
and government or agency funding per project is generally less than $50,000.
Therefore projects are generally smaller scale and short term. These smaller
projects create many environmental and community benefits. However, to achieve
improvements in sustainability across the landscape and broader community, larger
projects must be developed and implemented which will require paid staff and other
resources.
With the right package of projects and community partnerships, Council will be able
to facilitate larger scale projects capable of attracting external funding and
sponsorship. The benefit of this approach to Council is that it maximises the value of
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the limited resources available and captures opportunities to bring external funds and
other resources into the Shire to address landscape or community scale projects.
A challenge of this approach is to ensure coordination of activities so resources are
used efficiently and projects contribute to regional objectives. Groups must not be
‘set up to fail’ by placing too much reliance on volunteers, whereas an investment in
a project worker can ensure volunteer energy is sustained, not worn down.
Developing community relationships and projects requires expertise and investment
to build skills, resources and networks. Council will provide key resources to assist in
ensuring the viability of community projects.
Council will support and enhance this work by:





assisting with funding
providing technical expertise
arranging community education programs on matters of environmental concern
giving schools encouragement to initiate and continue environmental programs
showing practical leadership with on-ground work, improvements in resource use
and organisational culture change.
The three action programs under this Theme are about:o building community partnerships,
o enhancing communication between Council and community, and
o increasing community/Council capacity through provision of basic
infrastructure, resources, training and education.
Theme 1 Aim:
To match and sustain community energy and commitment, ensuring
community aspirations towards achieving sustainability are supported and
facilitated by Council.
Theme 1 Objectives
 To coordinate and facilitate environmental education across the community that
promotes the environmental assets of the Shire and the actions that can be taken
to protect these assets.
 To increase awareness and understanding of the requirements for ecological
sustainability, within both the Council and the community.
 To achieve and maintain high standards of community support, communication
and customer service in environmental services.
 Use a range of social research methods to facilitate council/community dialogue
and to help program design, delivery and evaluation.
Theme 1 Success measures
 Number of active community groups
 Number of projects completed
 Levels of volunteering
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




Number of community networks
Response times to correspondence and requests
Number of events and attendance
Analysis of surveys and focus group data
Other Community Indicators Victoria indicators
Program 1.1 Community partnerships
Council’s partnerships with the Macedon Ranges Shire community will be
consolidated and expanded to plan, resource and implement environmental actions.
Action 1.1
Community partnership projects: Work with the community and seek
expressions of interest to identify Strategy actions that can be delivered by
community groups, and establish partnership projects.
Action 1.2
Establish stronger community links by maintaining and enhancing existing
environmental community development programs. For example, maintain
Council’s Landcare and Friends Group Funding program, annual Landcare
Forum, support for the Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group. Initiate links
with other service sector groups to promote facilitate sustainability initiatives
they may wish to develop.
Action 1.3
Provide a volunteer support and coordination service in each town, supported
by office and administration infrastructure. This involves employing casual
local project management staff and ensuring they have access to
administrative resources to implement projects.
Action 1.4
Develop a youth environment program including:
 developing a Youth Eco Challenge (101 things you can do for the
environment),

supporting local school environment curricula, including helping to
translate global and national issues to a local scale to help young
people identify areas they can make a difference.

promoting local environment focussed employment opportunities,

building links between local environment focused community groups
with existing youth programs such as FREEZA and Youth Spaces, and
providing support to groups to enhance youth involvement in
environmental projects to help ensure projects are designed to engage
people of all ages.
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Rural Living Strategy consultation
As part of the consultation for the Rural Living Strategy, three forums were held
across the Shire. Over 400 people attended. At the forum, tables were set up with
representatives from different Council departments and external agencies including
the CFA, water authorities and DSE. Maps and copies of the planning scheme were
at hand.
Residents were able to interact with staff from across a range of professions and
organisations to raise questions and discuss issues.
This proved an excellent process for gaining submissions from residents and learning
about their issues, ideas and attitudes.
At the same time there was the opportunity for residents to learn how the planning
scheme and planning processes work within the Shire.
Facilitating ongoing planning information forums will help the community understand
planning processes and open links for better communication between residents and
Council officers.
Program 1.2 Communications & consultation
Council’s communications and customer service relating to sustainability will be
continuously improved. A range of communications materials will be developed
across the key environmental Themes suitable for diverse media, including print,
web, radio, and moving image.
Community consultation and engagement will be expanded and enhanced. A range
of social research techniques will be embedded into Council processes and provided
with necessary resources. Examples include better use of online surveys, focus
groups, workshops and forums to learn about community ideas, expectations and
attitudes. Workshops and forums also provide opportunities to help residents
understand Council policy and processes.
There are a range of ways for exploring community ideas and initiating action. One
example is a Deliberative Consultation model. This process has been used by the
Victorian Women’s Trust to explore water reform in Victoria. Deliberative
Consultation aims to engage a group of people in an ongoing dialogue on a specific
theme, leading to action. Participants are provided with background information and
a range of options. They are encouraged to contribute to further research and
discussion to explore the issue fully, and develop ideas on how to respond or act.
There are also other models that can help communities consider complex and
demanding issues effectively. A range of social research methods is needed
because reliance on methods such as surveys or forums all have limitations, in
particular they are not often suitable for capturing new ideas or initiating action.
Reporting on these processes will also help inform the community.
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Action 1.6
Develop and implement an Environmental Communications program including
use of printed publications, website, email broadcast, podcast, moving image,
radio and existing customer service resources.
Action 1.7
Establish ongoing social research processes as a tool for community
engagement and better Council understanding of the community, and
community understanding of Council.
Action 1.8
Establish deliberative consultation (or other consultation process) on three key
issues to help facilitate constructive debate. The three issues proposed are:

Genetically Modified Organisms in the Local Environment; A discussion
exploring the local implications of using genetically modified organisms
in agriculture.

Sustainable Agriculture in the Macedon Ranges Shire; Developing a
template for economically viable land uses for small and large property
owners.

Strategic Planning for Sustainability: Review of the report Change and
Continuity in Peri-Urban Australia in the context of Macedon Ranges
Shire.
Action 1.9
Establish a Sustainability Workshop Participant Register. Invite suitably
qualified residents to apply for membership of an ongoing network of skilled
members of the community who are available to workshop complex issues or
contribute to policy development and other tasks.
Program 1.3 Council and community capacity, training and
education
Council capacity. The review of the Natural Environment Strategy initiates a review
of Council environmental services. There are existing services that Council provides
and there are proposed services and projects that will require new human, financial
and other resources.
The Strategy proposes to develop projects to attract external funds and sponsorship.
External funding sources generally demand on-ground works, but to deliver onground works, people are required. Therefore Council will be more successful at
attracting external resources if it contributes to funding the human resources required
to deliver projects.
Community capacity. The community has many ideas and aspirations towards
sustainability, but often lacks the capacity to develop and implement these ideas.
Capacity to achieve comes from a mix of clear directions (project plan), skills,
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financial or material resources (e.g. office space, administrative support), and good
governance (committee structure, public liability insurance and so on). Council can
and does provide support to groups to ensure capacity can be maintained or
enhanced. Where possible Council will improve the capacity of groups to act.
Training and education. Council will facilitate dialogue with education providers in
the region to improve access for residents to natural systems management, energy
efficiency and other relevant training and education. In partnership with the
community, Council will work to deliver a Sustainable Communities education
program.
A Sustainability Framework training service will be developed to provide Councillor
briefing and training in local environment policy and strategy.
Action 1.10
Develop a Council Environmental Resources and Service Delivery Framework
to define staff and resources required to provide services and deliver projects.
Action 1.11
In partnership with community groups such as the Macedon Sustainability
Group, develop and deliver a Sustainable Living Education Initiative.
Action 1.12
Facilitate improved environmental training and educational opportunities within
the Shire by liaising with regional education institutions to provide services.
Action 1.13
Develop Sustainability Framework training for Councillors and staff. Consider
using the ‘Changing the Dream Symposium’8 approach or similar to foster a
deeper understanding and dialogue on broad sustainability issues.
8 The Changing the Dream Symposium is a not-for-profit network that offers a method of building an
understanding of broad sustainability issues. “Through dynamic group interactions, leading edge
information, and inspiring multimedia, participants of this one-day event are inspired to reconnect with
their deep concern for our world, and are empowered to make a difference.” (Changing the Dream
website.)
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Theme 2. Partnerships and advocacy
Addressing major environmental issues successfully requires a regional approach.
Council needs to maintain and build partnerships with community, business, service
agencies, neighbouring local governments and State and Federal Government. Cooperation is essential to achieve regional outcomes. Combined effort provides the
possibility of sharing resources and achieving economies of scale. Regional
partnerships are a priority for State and Federal Government in their allocation of
grants, therefore sound partnerships and projects will enhance Council’s ability to
access grant income for the benefit of residents.
Council’s Natural Environment Strategy seeks to align projects with Regional
Catchment Strategies and other relevant policies and programs, such as the State
Government Sustainability Accord.
Partnerships need to be developed using local symbols that help describe how
natural resources in this region are shared and linked to the cultural identity of the
community. In this way people, government and business can be motivated to work
together to protect and enhance natural resources that we all depend on.
An important initiative is the development of an Environmental Action Brand that
articulates the character, aspirations and strategic direction of the local community
and which becomes a banner under which partnerships can be developed and
projects implemented. Sound models of this are working in other regions, including
‘Grow West’ and ‘Yarra Life’.
The Brand approach is required to send a clear message to the community to assist
with developing partnerships, community education and motivation. The
Environmental Action Brand will be owned by Council and will provide a symbol of
Council’s commitment and policy directions.
The Brand will enable the community, government and partners to identify specific
actions as components of the overall environmental program. The projects delivered
under the Brand will be projects most in the public eye. The Brand will include
statements of Council’s objectives including emissions reductions targets, areas of
native vegetation protected and details of projects designed to achieve policy
objectives.
To help support the Brand, a Macedon Ranges Environment Trust will be created as
an independent trust capable of accepting private donations or sponsorship.
Government funding is critical to implement projects, but there are many
opportunities to support projects through private sector donations and sponsorship.
Currently there is no local organisation that seeks environmental donations or
sponsorship for projects specifically within Macedon Ranges Shire. Similarly there is
not currently a local program for small businesses to show how they care for this
local environment. The Trust will allow people who are passionate about our local
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environment to make bequests or donations that benefit directly the country they
most care about.
Action programs under this Theme include larger strategic projects that will embrace
issues covered in other Strategy Themes, such as biodiversity, sustainable land use,
water quality and climate change.
Theme 2 Aims:
To establish local and regional partnerships to build and coordinate large
scale, long term projects to deliver on Natural Environment Strategy
objectives.
For Council to be a strong advocate for ecological sustainability in the
interests of the Shire community and environment.
Theme 2 Objectives

To create a regional environmental marketing and project management model
that links with a variety of projects and that forms a basis for environmental
management systems relevant to various business sectors.

To increase the ability of the region to attract government grants, private
sector philanthropy and other support for local environmental projects.

To help shape regional and state policy towards ecological sustainability.
Theme 2 Success measures

Brand developed

Sponsorship program implemented

Projects partnered

Environmental Trust established
Program 2.1 Environmental Action Brand
In partnership with community and agencies, Council will develop a distinctive
Environmental Action Brand and a package of projects covering the key
environmental Themes that can be delivered under it. This initiative will result in an
enhanced capacity for the Shire community to build partnerships and attract external
resources to deliver large-scale projects. Under the Brand, many projects with
multiple partners will be implemented across a range of themes and issues.
The Brand will also be used as a marketing tool for local industry-specific
environmental management systems (see Theme 8, below).
Action 2.1
Develop a Macedon Ranges Shire Environmental Action Brand and package
of regional projects.
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Program 2.2 Macedon Ranges Environment Trust
Parallel to the Environmental Action Brand, a Macedon Ranges Environment Trust
will be established. This trust will be set up independent of Council as an
accountable organisation able to accept private donations and sponsorship. The
trust constitution will enable funding of projects in the Shire under the Environmental
Action Brand. The Trust will be able to gain tax deductibility status.
Action 2.2
Establish a Macedon Ranges Environment Trust or similar body capable of seeking
and accepting donations and sponsorship.
Program 2.3 Policy development and advocacy
Council will actively contribute to policy and partnership development processes
initiated by other Councils, Catchment Management Authorities, agencies and State
or Federal Government.
Action 2.3
Participate in policy development processes and advocate strongly on key
environmental issues identified as Council policy.
Action 2.4
Advocate strongly for higher standards of subdivisional development and
building construction to achieve improved water conservation and reduced
greenhouse gas emissions.
Action 2.5
Advocate for the research, implementation and management of appropriate
environmental flows to protect the ecological health of the Shire’s waterways.
Action 2.6
Advocate for more research to build understanding of the impacts of farm
dams and bores on water resources and to develop improved regulation of
farm dams and bores, especially in rural residential areas or for nonagricultural uses.
Action 2.7
Lobby and advocate to the State Government for improved sustainability
standards in new housing and commercial developments with the aim to
exceed the current 5 Star House Energy Rating scheme.
Program 2.4 Regional partnerships
Action 2.8
Continue to participate in the Victorian Government Local Sustainability
Accord Program.
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Action 2.9
Maintain and develop relationships with neighbouring Councils and enter into
formal partnerships to deliver specific projects based on shared objectives.
Action 2.10
Create a Regional Partnerships Officer position to seek funding, build
relationships and help initiate the Environment Trust.
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Theme 3. Council leadership
The Council will be a leader in taking action towards achieving real gains in the state
of the environment in the Macedon Ranges Shire. One of the characteristics of this
leadership is the desire to achieve ecological sustainability. Ecological sustainability
embodies social, economic and environmental sustainability. There are two broad
areas of sustainability that Council works in – the internal organisation and
operations of the Council itself, and as one player within the local community,
environment and economy.
This Theme primarily addresses Council’s internal organisational sustainability.
Council’s commitment to achieving organisational sustainability will have direct
economic benefits and environmental outcomes for Council in the long term. This
approach also demonstrates leadership and assists the broader community and
other organisations to make the transition to a more sustainable footing.
Council operations extend across many aspects of life in the Macedon Ranges Shire,
including childcare, aged care, roads, waste management, planning, recreation,
immunisations, local laws and so on. Each service area has its own environmental
problems or opportunities.
The Natural Environment Strategy sets the MRSC Draft Sustainability Framework as
the tool for guiding governance that creates integrated and balanced decision-making
and that allows the broad range of sustainability issues to be factored in and
coordinated across the organisation.
“(Its) importance is as a catalyst, advocate, mediator, monitor and arbitrator on
occasions, so that when we reach the ultimate destination of a sustainable state,
the Organisation is transparent, totally subservient to the key aspects of our
society (community), economy and environment.
Governance, or stewardship, recognises the capacity to get things done which
does not rest on the power of government to command or use its authority, rather
being able to use new tools to steer and guide.”9
“the required approach is not simply about an organisation, or bureaucracy,
articulating the sustainability principles and forcing them on others. It is about
demonstrating the manner in which such principles can be applied and the
benefits that can be achieved with a long-term horizon.”10
This is the essence of Council’s leadership role in both defining and implementing
policies to achieve sustainability. This also underpins Council’s focus on community
development and facilitation, detailed in Theme 1.
Sposito, V. & Hossain, H. Macedon Ranges Sustainability Framework, Agriculture Victoria Services
& Macedon Ranges Shire Council 2003, page 9.
10 Sposito & Hossain, page 34.
9
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The application of the Sustainability Framework relies on policy or program analysis
within a matrix format. The use of a matrix allows for a simple method to assess
multi-dimensional issues within some visual clarity. The basic Framework Matrix is
shown in Appendix 2.
The Sustainability Framework requires an Information Network to provide information
upon which to base decisions. The information network includes the Landscape
Units (see Theme 9) and associated documentation, and large volumes of reference
material held in Council records.
The Framework provides a ‘Decision Support System’ which is a tool to assist
Councillors and officers to identify relevant policies (including environmental policies)
that must be considered when developing proposals for new services and
infrastructure. Part of the Framework is already in place, in that all reports to Council
include a table providing comments about the effect of the actions proposed in the
report against sustainability principles. The Sustainability Framework will be further
developed and used as part of day-to-day decision making. Additionally, the new
Integrated Social and Economic Impact Assessment Tool developed by Macedon
Ranges Shire Council will be used as a key tool for social and economic impact
assessment, and integrated with the Framework.
The following examples illustrate how the Sustainability Framework will apply:





Council Reports will demonstrate how sustainability principles have been
factored into new policy or programs.
Environmental standards will be built into all contracts let by the Council.
Council is a member of EcoBuy11 and will continue to participate in this
program.
Investments made by Council will be into funds which meet sustainability
criteria.
A whole-of-community risk analysis will be undertaken on climate change in
relation to Council business and service provision. Strategies will be prepared
to address challenges that are identified (Precautionary principle).
The Green Keepers is a Council working group that aims to facilitate environmental
initiatives that stretch across all Council’s operations. Some of the issues being
addressed include:




office recycling
reducing the amount of resources used including
paper and energy
reducing the amount of water used
11
EcoBuy is funded by the Department of Sustainability & Environment and Sustainability Victoria and
was established to encourage the purchasing of green products. Green purchasing is based on the
premise that every purchase impacts on the environment in some way. As such, green purchasing is
choosing to buy products that are less damaging to our environment and human health than
competing products that serve the same purpose.
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

implementing the EcoBuy Action Plan; and
an environmental education program for staff.
Theme 3 Aim:
To place the Council on a sustainable organisational footing, where Council
policies, projects, decision-making processes and service delivery align
with principles of ecologically sustainable development.
Theme 3 Objectives

To implement the Macedon Ranges Sustainability Framework across the
organisation.

To increase awareness and understanding of the requirements for ecological
sustainability, within both the Council and the community.

To ensure all Council purchasing, investment and contracts align with
principles of ecologically sustainable development.
Theme 3 Success measures

Adoption of the MRSC Sustainability Framework across the organisation.

Report on EcoBuy Program.

Report on contracts.
Program 3.1 MRSC Draft Sustainability Framework
Council's Sustainability Framework will be implemented across the organisation,
including initiatives such as Green Keepers and staff training.
Action 3.1
Complete the Macedon Ranges Shire Sustainability Framework, incorporating
the Integrated Impact Assessment Tool for consideration by Council. Once
adopted by Council implement the framework across the Council organisation.
Program 3.2 MRSC contracts, purchasing and investment
Macedon Ranges Shire Council is a significant purchaser of goods and services. It
also holds significant funds in reserves. Council has the opportunity to influence
sustainability outcomes by ensuring that its expenditure and investment choices
embody sustainability principles.
Council will continue to develop and implement sustainability standards to guide
investment and purchasing of goods and services, in line with the Sustainability
Framework.
There are several existing programs that Council is already part of, or could
participate in to assist with increasing sustainability outcomes.
Action 3.2
Continue to participate in the EcoBuy program and develop a Buy Recycled
Action Plan under the EcoBuy model.
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Action 3.3
Implement Green Keepers green office program within Council. Prepare a
Communication and Education Action Plan for Council staff regarding their
environmental opportunities and responsibilities.
Action 3.4
Develop proformas and checklists related to the Sustainability Framework to
assist Council officers prepare contracts that address sustainability principles.
Write environmental requirements into contract specifications.
Action 3.5
Investigate opportunities for Council to utilise environmentally friendly
investment funds.
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B2. On-ground projects and
services
Theme 4. Healthy ecosystems, sustainable
land management, water quality
Ecosystems and the variety of life
Ecological systems that constitute this living landscape are an interwoven fabric of
life that supports us all. With the development of our settler society, vast areas of
native vegetation have been cleared, a huge variety of exotic plants and animals
introduced, and the hydrology of streams and soils altered significantly.
Ecosystems which had evolved to a relatively stable equilibrium over millions of
years have been seriously disrupted, resulting in a decline in biodiversity, serious
loss of natural habitat and species extinction.
The Macedon Ranges Shire is unusual in that it still has relatively large areas of
native vegetation throughout the Shire in good condition. These must be protected
and enhanced, to preserve species diversity and to ensure that ecosystem services
provided by these natural areas can be maintained.
However the present situation is not encouraging. Despite all the good work that is
being done, the Victorian Government Green Paper on Land and biodiversity at a
time of climate change (2008, p12) states that: “Victoria’s land and biodiversity has
continued to decline.” Some of the most serious threats facing the Shire’s
biodiversity include subdivision, infrastructure development, clearing for buildings and
agriculture, grazing, weed invasion, inappropriate fire regimes, predation by pest and
domestic animals, pressures from recreational use, changes in hydrological regimes,
firewood collection, soil disturbance and vandalism.
Ecological Vegetation Classes
Vegetation forms the basis of most ecosystems, and is a good indicator of the animal
species that may inhabit an area. Council has as a resource Ecological Vegetation
Class mapping from the Department of Sustainability and Environment. Ecological
vegetation classes are defined as ‘(vegetation type)…based on vegetation structure
and floristics, (the species that occur at a site), land systems and other environmental
information including aspect, slope, elevation, rainfall, fire frequency and ecological
responses to disturbance. They describe local patterns of vegetation diversity…’12.
12
North Central Native Vegetation Plan, 2005
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This mapping specifies the extent and type of most of the indigenous vegetation in
the Shire. The mapping shows that in the Shire 40,529 hectares (23% of the area) is
covered by of native vegetation. Of this, 62% is privately owned and 38% is public
land, including Crown Land, State Forests, Flora Reserves and Council Reserves.
The Shire has 31 vegetation communities as described by their ecological vegetation
class. Of these:

11 are categorised as ‘Endangered’ (2,767 ha), defined as having contracted
to less than 10% of pre-European extent or 10 - 30% of pre-European extent
and severely degraded over a majority of the area. (Includes naturally
restricted EVCs)

9 are identified as ‘Vulnerable’ (7,855 ha), defined as having 10 - 30% preEuropean extent or 30 to 50% of pre-European extent and moderately
degraded over the majority of the area

6 are identified as ‘Depleted’ (15,286 ha) defined as having 30 – 50% preEuropean extent or greater than 50% pre European extent and moderately
degraded over the majority of the area.

5 are identified as ‘Least Concern’ (14,621 ha), defined as having greater than
50% pre-European extent remaining and subject to little to no degradation
over a majority of this area.
The vast majority of the endangered vegetation types (94%) and vulnerable
vegetation types (81%) are in private ownership. Contrast this with 62% of Least
Concern EVCs being in public ownership (88%).
The data is extremely useful in planning for biodiversity management but does have
several limitations. It does not specify the quality of the vegetation, including
consideration of issues such as the level of disturbance and weed invasion. It is also
limited to vegetation types that contain tree cover, and therefore does not accurately
show our precious areas of grasslands and marshlands.
It must also be noted that despite some vegetation types being categorised as ’Least
Concern’, they still have very significant biodiversity values. As an example, the
Wombat Forest contains a majority of vegetation types categorised as ‘Least
Concern’ but is considered a very important conservation area for the region.
Biodiversity on private land
The majority (62%) of our natural areas are in private ownership. Pockets of
indigenous grassland, large tracts of bushland, and corridors of vegetation and
copses of trees remain. This mosaic of natural areas is integral to our Shire’s
biodiversity. Off-reserve protection and management of natural areas is now
recognised as one of the most important conservation needs in Australia.
Some of the tools for biodiversity protection on private land are already in place
including legislation and policy. But regulation to protect biodiversity and natural
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assets needs to be balanced with appropriate incentives or other services for land
managers. Practical incentives and accessible training need to be made more widely
available and new initiatives developed. Urgent steps need to be taken to translate
our growing understanding of sustainable land management into action across the
landscape.
Biodiversity is a universal natural value of which we are part, yet through our cultural
development we have become detached from our understanding of our
interdependence within it. The challenge for our community is to gain an
understanding of the age, complexity and beauty of our natural systems in a way that
is relevant and meaningful. When people understand the value of something we are
more likely to take steps to ensure its protection.
Council is committed to help the community understand how our day-to-day choices
have an impact on natural habitat and biodiversity, and how we can act most
effectively to improve things.
Public land management
The Shire contains many natural areas that are managed by Parks Victoria or the
Department of Sustainability and Environment. These are highly valued by the
community for their biodiversity, aesthetic and recreational values. The Cobaw and
Wombat State Forests contain the Shire’s most substantial areas of native vegetation
and are managed by the Department of Sustainability and Environment. Parks
Victoria manages the Macedon Regional Park, Pyrete State Park, Mount Charlie,
Mount Teneriffe, T Hill, Goldie and Conglomerate Gully Flora Reserves, and
Lauriston Bushland Reserve. Surveys undertaken by State Government agencies
and the former Macedon Range Conservation Society show that these areas contain
substantial populations of indigenous flora and fauna including rare and threatened
species.
The Shire Council has under its management a wealth of natural areas with a range
of ecological communities. Information on some of our natural areas in our local
(Council-managed) reserve system is provided in Appendix 3. The challenge is to
manage these areas with a view to protecting, and in many cases improving, their
biodiversity values.
Other natural areas in public ownership such as road reserves, railway reserves and
Crown Land are often not managed at all or inappropriately managed for biodiversity
conservation. New ways of dealing with these areas must be explored.
Common and rare indigenous species
The Ecological Vegetation Class mapping has shown that many of our vegetation
communities are under threat from clearing and disturbance. Similarly, individual
species are also threatened. However, it is not only the endangered species that are
worthy of a high level of protection. Populations of all species in an ecosystem must
work in balance to produce a robust and healthy environment that is capable of
withstanding disturbances such as fire or even climate change. Large areas of
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connected indigenous vegetation are the most resilient and able to support a large
number of species. It is through these populations of common species that rare
species are able to survive.
MANAGEMENT ISSUES FOR A RARE FAUNA SPECIES: THE TUAN
The Tuan, or Brush-tailed Phascogale (Phascogale tapoatafa) is a local species
threatened by extinction because of the clearance and fragmentation of native
vegetation, and predation by feral animals. It is particularly vulnerable to declines
in its population because of characteristics of its life cycle.
The Tuan is a small nocturnal, carnivorous marsupial that lives in trees, but
forages on the ground for large insects, spiders and centipedes. Females have a
large, exclusive range of 30 to 60 hectares and males have overlapping home
ranges of around 100 hectares. Trees with hollows are required for Tuans and
they use around 30 nests in their home range. Females require large tree hollows
with small openings to have their young. The Tuans’ requirement for such a large
number of tree hollows in their range means that they can only survive in a mature
forest, as tree hollows only occur when trees reach over-maturity. When on the
ground foraging, Tuans are at risk from cats or foxes.
Tuans are extremely short-lived, which brings about serious conservation issues
for the species. After a season of mating the male Tuan dies; the female may live
for a second season. The short life span of the Tuan means that if a litter does not
survive, there is no replacement population to breed the next generation. In one
event, such as fire or predation, the Tuan can become locally extinct. This species
relies on habitat with extensive connections to allow Tuans from adjacent areas to
re-colonise after local extinctions. Remnant vegetation and substantial links
between remnants is vital to the survival of this animal.
Fire and biodiversity
Fire is an important part of our environment but under certain conditions, it also
devastates lives and property. Our plant and animal species have adapted to a
specific fire regime that has moulded our ecosystems. The traditional owners of our
land managed the countryside with fire to ensure that the land could sustain them
over the millennia. Since colonisation to the present fire regimes have changed
significantly. Fixed assets including homes, businesses and public infrastructure are
often located in close proximity to bushland or grassland areas that are subject to
periodic wildfire. Significant effort and understanding of fire behaviour and ecology
are required to manage the risks for these environments and communities. This
knowledge is needed to ensure adequate fire prevention and emergency
management measures are taken to protect life and property as well as the
biodiversity that is often the reason people choose to live in fire prone areas.
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The great challenge for the Shire is to balance the need to protect life and property
and to provide an appropriate fire regime to preserve the biodiversity of our
ecosystems. This is particularly difficult in our environment. Local forests become
extremely combustible when dry, hot weather follows a good growth season. The
devastating consequences of these conditions are felt with wildfires such as the Ash
Wednesday bushfires of 1983 and the devastating Black Saturday fires of February
7th 2009. Both fires have raised questions about the appropriateness of living in
bushfire prone areas, and the standards of building construction, fuel modification,
fire fighting equipment, and ‘stay or go’ plans that residents need to consider, without
destroying the ecology that makes living in these areas desirable.
The Macedon Ranges Municipal Fire Prevention Strategy 2000 attempts to address
some of these issues, as does the planning scheme where the Native Vegetation
Framework and Wildfire Management Overlays guide decision making.
The MFPS and Planning Scheme will likely be reviewed in line with the outcomes of
the 2009 Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission.
DSE Fire Operations Plans – To better manage the risk of bushfires, the
Department of Sustainability and Environment and Parks Victoria undertake planned
burning on Crown Land to help reduce the occurrence and impact of devastating
fires.
Conducting planned burns is one of DSE’s most important fire prevention activities.
It involves the controlled setting of fires during periods of lower fire risk. Each Fire
Operations Plan is developed in consultation with communities, Parks Victoria, local
Councils, Country Fire Authority, technical specialists within DSE and other
stakeholders.
Regional forest issues
Following the Regional Forest Agreement process, the Victorian State Government
completed a review of the licence agreements and the quotas developed for the
extraction of timber from these forests. The Government has determined that the
past forest utilisation provisions were not sustainable. Forestry in Wombat and
Cobaw State Forests has effectively ceased due to very low availability of a mature
timber resource. Current forest issues include fire management, weed control,
recreational uses and firewood harvesting.
Environmental weeds
Environmental weeds are plants that threaten the conservation values of our
indigenous ecosystems. They can invade indigenous vegetation, out-competing
indigenous plants. In some instances they smother trees, choke waterways and do
not provide suitable habitat for our indigenous fauna. Many widespread
environmental weeds have been introduced through agriculture. They include:

many grasses such as Sweet Vernal (Anthoxanthum odoratum) and Quaking
Grass (Briza maxima)
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
hedging plants that were used to define fields such as Gorse (Ulex europaeus)
and Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna)

plants accidentally introduced through contamination of seed and equipment
such as Serrated Tussock (Nassella trichotoma) and Chilean Needle Grass
(Nassella neesiana).
Other serious environmental weeds are escaped garden plants, such willows (Salix
spp.) and Blackberry (Rubus spp.).
Responsibilities for pest plant control are set out in the Catchment and Land
Protection Act 1994. Under the Act weeds are classified as state prohibited,
regionally prohibited, or regionally controlled. Common weeds such as blackberry,
gorse and broom are regionally controlled weeds and generally responsibility for
control rests with the land manager. Legislation regarding pest plants is administered
by the Department of Primary Industries.
ISSUES FOR A RARE PLANT SPECIES: THE BLACK GUM
The Black Gum (Eucalyptus aggregata) is recognised under the Flora and Fauna
Guarantee Act 1988. It is a small to medium sized tree to 25 metres with dark,
rough bark that usually persists to the smaller branches. It has a high
conservation status because it is very restricted in its natural occurrence: in
Victoria, it occurs only within Macedon Ranges Shire. It is limited to the Five Mile
Creek floodplain and its southern tributaries including Slatey Creek. It requires
alluvial floodplains and grows in frost hollows.
The Slatey Creek population is of particularly high conservation value as it is in
relatively undisturbed bushland. This means that the species can be studied in
the context of its ecosystem. Along Five Mile Creek the area has been
substantially cleared and the Black Gums often stand alone. Extensive work has
occurred by the Five Mile Creek Landcare Group and North Central Catchment
Management Authority to revegetate sections of the creek.
Black Gums are also protected in a Vegetation Protection Overlay in the Planning
Scheme. This overlay has the objectives of protecting the remnant Black Gums
and conserving their habitat and environs.
Firewood collection
Excessive firewood collection remains a problem in the Shire and has significant
negative impacts on biodiversity values. Live plants are obviously important habitat
and food for many indigenous species, but dead logs and branches also provide vital
habitat and food. For example echidnas, many species of birds, insects and fungi all
rely on dead logs and branches for their survival. Dead wood provides hollows for
shelter and nesting and as it rots down, provides essential nutrients for the continued
support of the ecosystem. Logs also provide structural habitat that allows many
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native species to evade predators such as foxes and cats. Taking excessive
volumes of firewood effectively starves the bush. People collecting firewood on
private land should consider leaving a large percentage as habitat. Private land
managers are also encouraged to establish firewood plantations.
Native vegetation on private land and road reserves is protected by the Native
Vegetation Clearing controls under the Planning Scheme, and permits are required
for clearing, removal or lopping (pruning) of live vegetation. Recently Native
Vegetation Clearing Controls were widened to protect large living and dead habitat
trees. On road reserves, firewood may not be collected without a permit from both
the Department of Sustainability and Environment and the Macedon Ranges Shire.
There is a common perception that fallen timber contributes to wildfire risk. However
under current understanding of bushfire behaviour, fine aerial fuels present the most
significant risks. Large logs burn slowly once a fire front has passed.
Pest and domestic animals
Predation and grazing by introduced animals are major threats to the Shire’s fauna
and flora. Species such as foxes, feral cats and dogs are major predators of our
indigenous fauna. Rabbits, hares, goats, pigs and in some areas deer graze and
cause disturbance in our indigenous vegetation. This disturbance can have a great
impact on the regeneration of vegetation, with the loss of palatable species. The
Catchment and Land Protection Act generally places responsibility for control of pest
animals on the land manager.
Domestic animals can also have significant impacts on our wildlife. Pet cats and
dogs can often stray widely, especially at night. Although we may believe that our
pets would never kill, it has been repeatedly shown that domestic pets can play a
significant role in reducing populations of native fauna, especially when they live near
natural areas. One study in South Australia suggested that the average domestic cat
kills 26 animals per year, with many of them being native birds (Biodiversity Group
Environment Australia 1999).
The Council has the day-to-day responsibility for the enforcement of the local law
regarding domestic cats and dogs. The Domestic Animal Management Plan adopted
by Council in 2008 includes the following planned programs and initiatives:


Review off-leash areas and conduct public consultation to gauge level of
support and appropriateness of locations. This will include an annual analysis
of customer requests logged through the customer request system,
corporate/unit customer satisfaction survey and community groups input
Investigate the viability of a cat curfew from 7pm to 7am.
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Some preliminary community consultation was carried out on these issues in
preparing the Domestic Animal Management Plan.
BLACK HILL RESERVE: A MODEL OF COMMUNITY MANAGEMENT
The Black Hill Reserve north of Kyneton illustrates the changing community values
regarding natural areas and biodiversity. In 1861 the Black Hill Reserve was
managed as a timber reserve and farmers’ common. Wildlife was reported as
‘disappearing almost altogether from the district’ and local residents maintain that
the kangaroos did not return to Black Hill until the late 1960s (A Walk Through
Black Hill Reserve (1987), ed. L. Prictor). Other uses of the reserve included
quarrying and ‘hill climbing’ by a local car club. In the 1970s, interest in the natural
values of the site expanded and the area was set aside as a nature reserve.
Today the Black Hill Reserve is one of the Macedon Ranges Shire’s greatest
natural assets. The work of the Friends of Black Hill is extensive, ongoing and
extremely impressive. Despite the sometimes intensive past land use, the native
flora and fauna has displayed its resilience with a large variety of species still to be
found in the reserve. This evolving process of the community valuing and
identifying with landscape and biodiversity indicates something of a developing
emotional or spiritual connection with this land.
Sustainable land management
Sustainable land management is achieved when land use does not cause permanent
damage or loss to non-renewable land resources or increased requirements for
inputs that make ongoing land management unviable. For example, excessive
erosion results in the loss of soil productivity that may take millennia to replace. In
another example, unmanaged weed invasion can result in long term weed control
costs that exceed the productive income of land, rendering ongoing productive land
use unviable. The Strategy seeks to work in partnership with land-owners and other
partners to prevent land degradation and worsening pest plant and animal problems
that could harm the long term viability of local land-based industries.
Waterways and catchments
The Great Dividing Range. splits the Shire into two main catchments, the Campaspe
River catchment to the north and the Maribyrnong River catchment to the south. A
small area around Bullengarook flows into the Melton River catchment, and a small
area to the north of Mount William flows into the Goulburn-Broken catchment.
Because of the Shire’s geographic position, it has an important role as a water supply
catchment. It also means that activities on the land have potential impacts on water
quality and quantity downstream, beyond the Shire’s boundaries.
The riparian zones of the Shire’s waterways are rich in biodiversity. However, the
majority of waterways in the Shire are moderately to severely degraded by processes
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such as salinity, weed invasion, livestock access or depleted environmental flows
due to extractions and impacts of large numbers of farm dams and bores. These
degrading processes are exacerbated by drought conditions. Only a low percentage
of waterways in the Shire are managed to protect stream health and biodiversity,
though this is steadily increasing as land managers increase their efforts. In many
areas livestock have full access to creeks, including those in drinking water
catchments.
Healthy waterways are critical elements for both biodiversity and productive land
management. Generally waterway management is a responsibility of landowners,
Melbourne Water, and catchment management authorities. Council has a role to
work as a partner with these agencies to deliver waterway protection and
enhancement incentives, education and training.
Since 2002 significant improvements in catchment management have occurred in the
Upper Maribyrnong Catchment. The State Government’s 2004 White Paper Our
Water Our Future set out policies to create the Port Phillip and Westernport
Catchment Management Authority and extended the Melbourne Water boundary to
include all of the Maribyrnong River catchment. For the first time the Upper
Maribyrnong has begun to benefit from systematic catchment management services
including willow removal, removal of fish barriers and delivery of the popular
Melbourne Water Stream Frontage Management funding program to private
landowners. Melbourne Water has also taken over responsibility for management of
major drainage in townships.
Generally speaking, water quality of streams in the Shire is moderate to good,
depending on the time of year when testing occurs. Pollutants include sediment,
nutrients, and salt.
The Draft Sustainable Water Strategy Northern Region 200813 includes predicted
flows for the Campaspe and Loddon Rivers based on climate change modelling. The
forecast inflows under a medium climate change scenario are about 30% less than
the long term average, while available environmental water after diversions are about
50% less than the long term average. These figures relate to the flows at the
northern end of the catchment; however they show that there will be a reduction in
flows placing more pressure on riparian environments.
13
Draft Sustainability Water Strategy Northern Region
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MELBOURNE WATER’S STREAM FRONTAGE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM
Melbourne Water’s Stream Frontage Management Program operates in targeted
catchments to assist landowners to protect, improve and manage private freehold
and leased stream frontages. The program targets degraded rural waterway
frontages across the Port Phillip and Westernport drainage basins. Participating
landowners are offered funding assistance, technical advice and educational
opportunities. Funding may be ongoing for several years if a project needs to be
done in stages.
MELBOURNE WATER AND PORT PHILLIP AND WESTERNPORT
CATCHMENT MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY COMMUNITY GRANTS PROGRAM
Community grants are intended to help local community groups and public land
managers with projects and activities in their local area that improve the health of
land, biodiversity and water resources throughout the Port Phillip and Western Port
region. The projects and activities in turn support the Port Phillip & Westernport
Catchment Management Authority (CMA) and Melbourne Water with their
responsibilities under the Regional Catchment Strategy and the Regional River
Health Strategy.
These grants include funding for general administrative costs of incorporated
volunteer-based community groups, increase participation, raise public awareness,
undertake training, inform the community of their activities and undertake projects
to improve waterways or natural resource management.
Salinity
Salinity is caused by shallow, saline watertables and the accumulation of salt at or
near the soil surface. Because the Shire is situated on the Great Dividing Range,
salinity is not a major threat to land in the Shire as there are few flat areas close to
the watertable. Nevertheless, the downstream effects of our actions must be
considered. Approximately 55,000 tonnes of salt flow from the Campaspe catchment
each year to the Murray River. Half the Shire is situated in the Murray-Darling Basin,
so the Council and landholders need to understand how our land use here affects
salinity on the broad flat plains to the north.
The clearing of native vegetation in the Kyneton region has changed the rates of
recharge of groundwater. Rain that falls and is not used by vegetation seeps into the
groundwater. This in turn increases groundwater pressures many kilometres away
and contributes to raising watertables, and therefore increasing areas of land
affected by salinity on the plains.
Salinity is less of an issue in the Maribyrnong catchment, although it is naturally high
in some areas, especially in waterways. An early name for the Maribyrnong was the
Salt Water River. There are problem areas around Lancefield, Riddells Creek and
Heath Lane where small areas of land are severely affected by dryland salinity.
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Because the drainage is so good and the topography hilly, it is unlikely that these
affected areas will expand greatly. Salinity should still be managed and salt
concentrations monitored to ensure waterways are not becoming increasingly saline.
Soil erosion, structure decline and acidification
Soil erosion results in loss of the soil as well as increased turbidity in waterways and
transport of nutrients downstream. Soil erosion in the Shire is mainly the result of the
clearing of indigenous vegetation, and excessive grazing pressure from livestock and
pest species such as rabbits and hares. Earthworks including road construction and
maintenance can lead to erosion. Some soils in the Shire are prone to erosion, for
example severe gully erosion has occurred in the catchment of Boyd’s Creek north of
Darraweit Guim.
Soil structure is the arrangement of soil particles (sand, silt, clay and organic matter)
into aggregates. Good soil structure allows for water infiltration and percolation,
aeration and root development, and provides a good habitat for soil flora and fauna.
Soil structure declines because of direct physical alteration of the soil aggregates or
through chemical alteration of the soil, causing surface crusting, waterlogging due to
poor, infiltration and drainage of water, and compacted layers or hardpans.
As soils age and weather, acidification is a naturally occurring process. Agricultural
practices have been found to accelerate the rate of acidification. Generally this does
not become a cause for concern until the soil becomes extremely acidic and plant
growth is adversely affected14 . The NCCMA Regional Catchment Strategy 2003-07
identifies soil acidity as a problem in the upper reaches of the Campaspe River. The
process of soil acidification is complex. In agricultural areas acidification is mainly
caused by the leaching of nitrates beyond the root zone. The application of
nitrogenous fertilisers and the incorporation of legumes in pasture and crop rotations
have increased the level of soil nitrates that then progressively leach out of the root
zone.
Climate Change and Biodiversity
Increasing dryness is one of the most significant changes predicted for south-east
Australia under climate change models15. Extended periods of lower rainfall will have
significant impacts on biodiversity. As areas become progressively dryer, plant
species not adapted to a decreased availably of water will may not compete
effectively with drought tolerant species. Animals reliant on particular plants or the
availability of water may be forced to move across the landscape to areas with more
favourable conditions.
The relative altitude of the Macedon Range and surrounding landscape means that
the Macedon Ranges Shire has a significant role to play in supporting diverse
populations of plants and animals and actions need to be taken to facilitate the
movement of animals and plants to reduce possible local, regional or national
14
15
North Central Catchment Management Authority Regional Catchment Strategy.1997.
Climate Change in Australia – Technical Report 2007, CSIRO 2007
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extinctions. This is because the regions altitude means there is a broader gradient of
rainfall than exists on surrounding plains.
The Actions below encourage regeneration and revegetation. This work can be
voluntarily coordinated to create habitat links and corridors that facilitate the
movement of diverse fauna through the landscape under the Landscape Units
framework. Plants move much more slowly and significant research is required to
build an understanding of appropriate species to plant as climate change progresses.
For example some ‘local indigenous’ species may no longer thrive in their natural
ranges and other species from beyond the region may be required. In the mean time
local indigenous species will be used until further knowledge is built.
State and local policies
The policy framework for soil and water at the State level includes State Environment
Protection Policies for Waters of Victoria, Prevention and Management of
Contamination of Land. The State Planning Policy Framework in the Victoria
Planning Provisions includes sections on protection of waterways, groundwater and
catchments, floodplain management, salinity, and soil contamination. Planning
Policies for environment address salinity, floodplain management and soil
contamination. State Planning Policy No. 8 – Macedon Range and Surrounds has a
strong emphasis on protecting water catchment areas. Other policies include
Regional Catchment Strategies, regional River Health Strategies and Our Water Our
Future.
Local planning policies in the Shire’s Planning Scheme relating to soils include
erosion risk, steep land and ridgelines, environmental management and soil removal.
Land capability mapping and salinity mapping prepared by the Centre for Land
Protection and Resource Mapping are reference documents for the Planning
Scheme. There are local planning policies for catchment management, and water
quality protection and dams. Environmental Management Guidelines apply to all
proposed uses and development in non-urban areas of the Shire.
The Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 requires a State strategy that guarantees
the survival, abundance and development in the wild of all taxa and communities of
flora and fauna, ensuring the proper management of potentially threatening
processes, provides an education strategy, and improves people’s ability to meet
flora and fauna conservation objectives. To fulfil these requirements, the strategy
Victoria’s Biodiversity was adopted in 1997. It is currently being reviewed and
revised.
Native Vegetation Plans prepared by catchment management authorities are the
main documents that establish the priorities for management of vegetation
communities, and thereby biodiversity management in Victoria. The Plans, in
general, follow the principles of protecting, enhancing and restoring indigenous
vegetation, in that priority order. They agree that:

Remnant vegetation should be protected and enhanced with particular priority
for vegetation communities that are highly depleted and subject to threatening
processes.
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
Networks should be established between islands of remnant vegetation to
ensure that the ecological processes that maintain populations of species can
continue.
Revegetation should occur in order to:
o increase the size and viability of existing remnant vegetation
o establish links between remnants
o improve water quality through planting in high recharge areas,
wetlands and waterways
o develop farm-forestry and carbon sequestration forestry.
Weed control is a major issue for biodiversity values and must be addressed.


The State Government White Paper on land and biodiversity at a time of climate
change is due for release in mid-2009. It will set the direction for Victorian
Government policy and investment priorities in natural resource management, land
health and biodiversity for the next 20-50 years.
PORT PHILLIP AND WESTERNPORT REGIONAL RIVER HEALTH STRATEGY
The Port Phillip and Westernport Regional River Health Strategy (RRHS) is an
overarching strategy incorporating a range of waterway issues including riparian
management, aquatic habitat, channel form, water quality, stream flows, recreation,
heritage and floodplain management. On a catchment-by-catchment basis it
identifies environmental, social and economic values of waterways and threats to
those values.
General principles underpinning the RRHS include:



Protection of waterways with existing high values or those that are in good
condition;
Restoration of waterways where there is the greatest potential for
environmental and community gain for the resources invested;
Restoration of waterways where there is a high level of community interest.
A fundamental element of the RRHS is Melbourne Water’s Objective that by 2025, all
natural rivers and creeks will be in good or better condition, with fifty percent in good
or better condition by 2015.
Partnerships
Several government agencies have the primary responsibility for managing the range
of soil, water and air issues:

Many of the soil and water management issues come under the primary
management of the North Central Catchment Management Authority north of
the divide, Melbourne Water and the Port Phillip and Westernport Catchment
Management Authority to the south.
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
Depending on the River Catchment, water supply and sewage disposal issues
are managed by the water authorities, Southern Rural Water, Murray
Goulburn Water, Western Water and Coliban Water.

Pollution issues are the responsibility of the Environment Protection Authority.

The Department of Sustainability and Environment is responsible for
protecting flora, fauna and ecosystems.

Parks Victoria manages many of our highly prized natural areas.
The Macedon Ranges Shire has developed partnerships with these agencies to
facilitate good management of our resources. Through these partnerships we can
strongly advocate for support to be directed to the protection, enhancement and
restoration of these resources and biodiversity values.
Council willingly acknowledges the work that community groups and individuals
undertake to manage our biodiversity natural resources, including LandCare groups,
‘Friends of’ groups, conservation groups, GreenCorps, and landholders.
REVIVING WATERWAYS: COLLABORATIVE PROJECTS
There are many excellent examples of waterway management works undertaken
by Landcare and Friends Groups and the catchment management authorities. The
Deep Creek Landcare Group has for many years facilitated extensive fencing and
revegetation projects along Deep Creek to the east of Romsey. These projects can
be viewed from the Romsey-Wallan Road.
Groups in conjunction with the North Central Catchment Management Authority
have undertaken large willow removal and revegetation projects. The Woodend
and Five-Mile Creek Landcare Group, NCCMA and the Shire have collaborated to
remove willows and other weeds along the Five-Mile Creek and vast improvements
in this area can be noted. This work is improving the local environment and
protecting some of the only stands of Black Gum in Victoria.
The Campaspe River and Land Management Groups have helped transform the
Campaspe as it flows through Kyneton with the assistance of service clubs and
volunteers.
The Upper Maribyrnong Catchment Group has protected and revegetated
significant areas of remnant riparian vegetation along Deep Creek near Darraweit
Guim. Other recent waterway management projects include collaborative work
between the Friends of Jacksons Creek and Melbourne Water to clear willows and
other weeds and revegetate Jacksons Creek as it flows to Gisborne. Melbourne
Water has completed many major willow removal projects and provided significant
grants to land managers in the short time they have had responsibility for
waterways in the South of the Shire.
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Council’s current actions
The Council currently addresses soil, water and biodiversity issues through:

working in partnership with the PPWCMA, Melbourne Water and the NCCMA
on waterway projects

implementation of a Stormwater Management Plan for the main townships of
the Shire

resourcing and facilitating Landcare and ‘Friends of’ and community groups,
schools and individuals in catchment works and biodiversity projects

implementing the Planning Scheme to protect the soil and water quality and
biodiversity values

implementation of the Wastewater Management Plan controlling septic tank
installation and monitoring.

supporting the WaterWatch program

ongoing review of land use management policies through the Planning
Scheme and Municipal Strategic Statement.

ecological assessments of planning applications, and works by service
provider companies and Council in areas with biodiversity values

managing Council-owned reserves and Council-managed Crown Land natural
areas for their biodiversity values

ongoing engagement in a bioregional approach to biodiversity management
by working collaboratively with neighbouring municipalities, community
groups, Department of Sustainability and Environment and other stakeholders

a rate rebate for properties covered by a Trust for Nature Covenant.

Weed Strategy adopted in 2005, with solid implementation across the range of
actions, including employment of a full time Weed Control and Bushland
Management Officer, implementation of the Tackling Weeds on Private Land
Project, a large roadside weed control program and creation of the Voluntary
Environmental Resource Inventory (a tool to enable land managers to assess
the environmental attributes of their land).

lending a tool trailer to community groups undertaking revegetation and weed
control works

providing area-specific indigenous plant lists and planting guide to the
community on request

resourcing Green Corps programs that target biodiversity management

conducting biodiversity education programs for Council staff, contractors and
the community, including regular Landcare forums

working in close cooperation with other Councils in the region, to develop
projects, support education initiatives and provide assistance with developing
grant proposals.
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
completing the Roadside Management Plan and implementing the key
recommendations regarding high conservation value roadsides

implementing local laws on the removal of firewood from roadsides
WYBEJONG PARK, RIDDELLS CREEK
Wybejong Park is a Parks Victoria managed reserve. Parks Victoria supports
Greening of Riddell in the management of this reserve. It is an example of the
community producing an excellent outcome for a degraded waterway through
partnerships with the Parks Victoria and others. It is a three hectare site on a steep
escarpment leading down to Riddells Creek. In 1991, prior to the community adopting
the site, it was a degraded creek bank with a heavy infestation of weeds. It was
regularly burnt, resulting in erosion issues and reduced water quality.
A local community group ‘Greening of Riddell’ began work on the site, gaining
assistance from many government and non government agencies such as Parks
Victoria, the Macedon Ranges Shire Council , Planet Ark, the Green Corps and
Conservation Volunteers Australia. The result of the group’s work has been the
development of a healthy stream bank and a beautiful park valued by the community.
The main tasks undertaken by the group include:

The control of weeds. Removal of exotic species such as willows was seen as
being integral to improving the waterway’s health. It was recognised that
deciduous trees have a very negative effect on Australia’s flora and fauna.
They do not provide appropriate food for our terrestrial animals then, when
they drop their foliage in winter, they effectively kill much of the stream life.

Reducing the frequency of fire, resulting in less bare earth and thereby less
soil erosion and reduced runoff into the creek.

Revegetating the area with indigenous flora. This not only improves the
amenity of the park but also supplies a suitable food source for fauna and
helps filter runoff before it enters the stream, improving water quality.
The improved access and recreational values of the park have made it a valued part
of Riddells Creek. Future plans for the Park include introducing a Waterwatch
program to monitor stream health, and continuing to revegetate the site and keep the
weeds under control. It is hoped that platypus will return to the creek with water
quality improvement and more extensive streamside vegetation, as has occurred in
other rehabilitated parts of the Maribyrnong catchment.
The Action Programs below (Page 74) demonstrate Council’s commitment to the
protection of our unique biodiversity and ecological systems within the Shire. These
programs address the diversity of issues that can be collectively described as natural
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resource management, that benefit both ecological systems and productive
agriculture. The initiatives will generally be included within the Environmental Action
Brand as most of these issues require support from the State Government and
partner agencies, particularly catchment management authorities and Melbourne
Water.
Theme 4 Aim:
To sustainably manage our local environment to protect and enhance the
wealth of natural systems and resources found in the Shire.
Theme 4 Objectives

To engender respect and value for biodiversity in the community and within
the Council.

To build an understanding of the quality and extent of native vegetation and
the range of plant and animal species found in the Shire and to monitor its
condition into the future.

In partnership with the land-owners and the broader community, help ensure
native vegetation on private land is protected and managed sustainably,
including promoting sustainable land uses.

To protect and enhance native biodiversity on Council-owned or managed
land.

To develop opportunities for private land-owners to benefit from emerging
markets for biodiversity management or carbon sequestration.

To facilitate the creation of native vegetation buffers, shelter belts and habitat
links and the revegetation of non-productive areas to increase biodiversity and
establish carbon sinks.

To take a bioregional approach to biodiversity management in partnership with
community groups, adjoining Councils, the Department of Sustainability and
Environment, North Central Catchment Management Authority, the Port Phillip
and Western Catchment Management Authority, Parks Victoria and other
interested parties.

To protect and enhance the productive potential of the soil to sustain
appropriate land uses and prevent land degradation including salinity, erosion,
soil acidification, soil compaction.

To protect surface and ground water resources, and advocate for a balanced
and fair distribution between human and environmental uses and to minimise
soil and water pollution in the Shire.

To facilitate good catchment and waterway management on private and public
land.

To recognise the ongoing achievements of landowners who strive towards
sustainable land management and who continue to provide valuable
ecosystem services.

To use appropriate regulatory tools available to Council to protect biodiversity
and native vegetation.

In partnership with community, agencies and government, to lead and
facilitate pest plant and animal management across the Shire.
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
To ensure Landcare Groups are active and well resourced to deliver projects.
Theme 4 Success measures






Number of Trust for Nature Conservation Covenants created to protect native
vegetation
Area of native vegetation protected by fencing
Area of land revegetated with indigenous plants
Length of habitat links created.
Improvements in Ecological Indicators, especially the Index of Stream
Condition, WaterWatch water quality data and mapping of the quality and
extent of native vegetation (see section 3.2 Measuring Success).
Partnerships with Water Corporations for water quality improvement
outcomes.
Policy and strategic directions
Council will cooperate and form productive partnerships with our community and with
the catchment agencies, other government agencies and research organisations to
achieve sound catchment and waterway management.
Retention of native vegetation across the Shire and revegetation of recharge areas
will be encouraged as the most significant actions we can take in the Shire to tackle
salinity.
The Shire Planning Scheme will continue to be refined and improved to guide
changes in use and development so as to address the soil, water and biodiversity
issues identified in the Shire. Particular areas of concern include water supply
catchments, productive agricultural land, waterway corridors, wetlands, and land
liable to flooding. Decisions regarding development and land use change will refer to
information about land capability and salinity hazard.
Council will:




advocate for the provision of adequate and timely environmental flows to
sustain aquatic and riparian ecosystems in rivers and wetlands
fulfil our catchment management requirements on Council-owned land,
including pest plant and animal control, runoff management (including
volumes and nutrient loads), riparian vegetation protection, revegetation of
riparian zones, and erosion and sediment controls
deliver an ongoing education program to our community, particularly
landholders, to raise awareness of catchment management issues and
requirements
support and encourage water conservation, management of demand and
reuse measures for the Council and the community, in partnership with the
water supply companies
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



continue to focus on and support voluntary initiatives such as Council’s
Voluntary Environmental Resource Inventory (VERI) tools to facilitate
consideration of sustainable land management in rural land sales negotiations.
encourage the protection, enhancement and restoration of riparian vegetation
as an important method of improving water quality and stream health
work with the Environment Protection Agency to prevent and control water
pollution, and rapidly respond to any pollution problems when they occur
work with the EPA, water authorities and rural landholders to tackle
environmental issues arising from disposal of treated sewage effluent and
domestic wastewater.
Council will ensure that the best available information about biodiversity values and
requirements for conservation informs Council decisions, particularly relating to, onground projects, planning and development. This requires access to up-to-date,
relevant data sources including those maintained by State agencies and catchment
authorities.
Council will comply with legislative responsibilities under the State Flora and Fauna
Guarantee Act (FFG Act) and Federal Environment Protection Biodiversity
Conservation Act (EPBC Act) for protection of threatened flora and fauna. The
habitat of FFG Act listed species on Council land and roadsides will be protected
and, where possible, enhanced.
Sites of high biodiversity value will be identified and protected in the Planning
Scheme.
Planning applications affecting land with biodiversity values will be assessed with a
view to protecting, enhancing and restoring these values.
Natural areas that are directly under the Shire Council’s control will be managed to
protect and enhance indigenous biodiversity values. Council will progressively place
Trust for Nature Conservation Covenants over all high conservation value reserves in
its ownership.
Council will support the protection, enhancement, regeneration and restoration of
native vegetation on private land.
Strong links will be developed between Council and Landcare and other community
groups, to facilitate biodiversity protection and enhancement works.
Council will establish an on-ground work grants program to provide incentives for
natural resource management works including biodiversity management and pest
plant and animal control.
Council will maintain strong partnerships and collaborate with government agencies
research and educational organisations to facilitate biodiversity research and
retention programs.
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Council will develop a strategic, collaborative, targeted and continuing program for
the control of priority pest plants and animals, which tackles environmental as well as
agricultural pests on council land and priority roadsides. The program will ensure
that initial works are followed up, and that pest plants are replaced with appropriate
indigenous species.
Because some roadsides have high biodiversity values but are also subject to many
competing demands and uses, they will be given special attention to protect their
biodiversity. Effective operational procedures will be established for the conservation
of native flora and fauna, control of pest plants and animals, and fire protection on
road reserves across the Shire. These procedures will be implemented by
contractors as well as by Council staff.
Fire prevention planning and fire protection works will seek to maintain biodiversity
values as well as reducing risk to people and property.
Council will apply the following risk management principles in its development and
land management decisions:
 The causes of significant reduction or loss of biodiversity must be anticipated,
attacked at the source, or prevented.
 Prevention is better than cure. Protecting ecosystems from damage is far
more cost-effective than attempting rehabilitation once the damage is done.
Complete ‘restoration’ cannot be practically achieved. Besides, some
ecosystem changes and losses of biodiversity (for example, extinction) can
never be rectified.
 When contemplating decisions that will affect the environment, the
precautionary principle requires careful evaluation of management options to
avoid, wherever practicable, serious or irreversible damage to the
environment, and an assessment of the risk weighted consequences of
various options; and
 When dealing with threats of serious or irreversible environmental damage,
lack of full scientific certainty should not be used as a reason for postponing
measures to prevent environmental degradation.
Program 4.1 Macedon Ranges Shire owned or managed land
Council owns or is responsible for managing significant areas of native vegetation in
bushland reserves and roadsides. Species of national or state significance can be
found in some areas, while others retain endangered or vulnerable Ecological
Vegetation Classes. These reserves cover a broad spectrum of vegetation types
including wetlands, grasslands, grassy woodland and forest vegetation types. They
provide an outstanding cross-section of the unique biodiversity found in the Shire.
Few of these areas have adequate management plans or resources to protect and
enhance biodiversity values. Many of these reserves do not have suitable
infrastructure to allow public access, which is a lost opportunity for residents and
visitors to the Shire. It is also a lost educational opportunity. Conversely public
access poses risks to biodiversity in terms of the introduction of weeds and soil
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pathogens, so public access needs to be managed to ensure biodiversity values are
not compromised.
This program aims to complete and implement Natural Area Management Plans for
significant reserves. To adequately manage these reserves, additional resources
and skills will need to be built up in the Parks Unit to ensure plans can be
implemented and environmental values retained. These reserves represent an
excellent opportunity for Council to show a lead role in the protection of local plant
and animal species and habitat and as demonstration sites for private landowners.
Council will have access to Native Vegetation Management Framework offset
markets by investing in the management of bushland reserves to help facilitate its
own capital works or to sell through programs such as Bush Broker. Council can
also derive such benefits by placing Conservation Covenants over Council-owned
bushland.
Action 4.1
Develop and implement Natural Area Management Plans for Council bushland
reserves with a strong biodiversity protection and enhancement emphasis:
Bald Hill Reserve, Blackhill Reserve, Malmsbury Common, Mt Aitken, Mt
Gisborne, Barringo Reserve, Mt Magnet, Gisborne Racecourse Wetland,
Sandy Creek Road Reserve, Kathryn Court Reserve and Woodend
Racecourse Grassland. Key management issues include fire, pest plants and
animals, and provision for low impact public access.
Action 4.2
Undertake a Habitat Hectares assessment and fauna surveys of all bushland
reserves to assist with monitoring reserve condition and to assess the value of
reserves under the Native Vegetation Management Framework and Bush
Broker.
Action 4.3
Place Trust for Nature Covenants on all Council-owned bushland reserves to
protect these areas in perpetuity. Reserves include: Black Hill Reserve, Bald
Hill Reserve, Ashbourne Road Reserve, Barringo Reserve, Norton Road
Reserve, Mount Gisborne, Mount Aitken, Sandy Creek Road Land (Reserve
name needed), Kathryn Court Reserve, and disused quarry off Grahams
Track.
Program 4.2 Private land natural resource management
Private landowners manage natural systems that provide ecosystem services of
broad community benefit; therefore incentives are warranted to assist them in this
work. Approximately 90% of the area of Endangered and Vulnerable Ecological
Vegetation Classes in the Shire are found on private land. In total approximately
25,800 hectares of native vegetation is found on private land.
The remaining cleared agricultural land covers approximately 130,000 hectares,
which includes waterways, creek flats and escarpments, native grasslands, arable
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land and improved and unimproved pastures. These areas provide not only for the
Shire’s agricultural output and the areas for rural residential living but also provide
significant ecosystem services. There are many opportunities that remain to be
developed for this land including economically viable agriculture, sequestration of
carbon (in soils, bio-char, farm forestry and revegetation), biodiversity enhancement
(revegetation, grassland management), supply of renewable energy (solar, wind, biofuels) and waterway management.
The greatest opportunity to protect and enhance biodiversity and sustainable
agriculture can therefore be achieved by working cooperatively with private landowners.
This program will be delivered under the Environmental Action Brand (Theme 2),
based on the Landscape Units (Theme 9). Council has a role to help implement and
pay for such incentives, however significant investment must also come from State
and Federal Government, agencies and the private sector.
In consultation with local communities and Landcare groups, priority natural resource
management issues will be identified for each Landscape Unit, taking into account
Regional Catchment Strategy priorities. Projects will be developed that address
these priority issues, and Council and its partners will provide financial incentives for
works on an agreed cost-sharing basis. Other incentives will include training and
access to technical services.
These projects will be packaged under the Environmental Action Brand, and Council
will use this package of projects to match its investment by seeking external funding
and/or sponsorship. Projects will link with market-based natural resource
management initiatives described in Action Program 8.2, including Council’s
Voluntary Environmental Resource Inventory (VERI). Projects will be integrated with
existing agency programs including the Melbourne Water Stream Frontage program
and the Coliban River Recovery project.
Action 4.4
In partnership with community, develop and implement a grants program to
address natural resource management issues on private land, based on
Landscape Units. Incentives will be delivered with appropriate education,
training and communications. Where possible, projects will link to State
Government programs and Regional Catchment Strategies, non government
organisations including the Koala Foundation and Victoria Naturally.
Incentives could include assistance with pest plant and animal control,
fencing, flora and fauna surveys, regeneration or revegetation, project design
and training.
Action 4.5
Landcare support. Facilitate and motivate Landcare, community groups and
landholders to continue natural resource management works, including
continuing to administer a Landcare funding program, holding an annual
Landcare forum, providing an extension and advice service and supporting
Landcare events.
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Action 4.6
Develop and deliver an environmental education program focused on local
biodiversity, its values and significance to the Macedon Ranges Shire
community.
Action 4.7
Prepare individual Natural Systems Summaries for all landowners on
properties greater than 1 hectare. Summaries will include information about
any native vegetation mapped or likely to be found on their land or adjacent
roadside and details of opportunities and responsibilities that may relate to the
management of natural systems. Summaries will also identify areas where
basalt plains grassland or grassy woodland communities may exist.
Action 4.8
Promote Council’s rate rebate for land protected by a Trust for Nature
Covenant to landowners who are stewards of Endangered and Vulnerable
Ecological Vegetation Classes (to be included with Natural Systems
Summaries).
Action 4.9
Continue to support partnerships to produce publications on biodiversity
management such as Caring for Country, Central Victorian Weed Guide and
Macedon Range Flora.
Action 4.10
Investigate opportunities to establish an Upper Campaspe Catchment
Indigenous Plant Nursery Cooperative to create a viable indigenous plant
nursery to supply revegetation projects in the Kyneton region.
Action 4.11
Provide advice to landowners and managers on the management of native
flora and fauna, regeneration and revegetation with indigenous species and
refine vegetation species lists based on Ecological Vegetation Classes.
Program 4.3 Natural resource management policy development
Since Council amalgamations in 1994 and the implementation of standard format
planning schemes across the state, Council has a large backlog of policy
development to work through to build a platform for governance across a range of
issues. In this same period, expectations on Council to achieve environmental
outcomes have grown.
The Natural Environment Strategy cannot address all environmental policy issues in
detail. Therefore the Strategy recommends a range of policy development initiatives
so that Council can work towards completing a systematic framework of detailed
environmental policies to cover the broad range of issues before it. Significant policy
gaps include the lack of a Pest Animal Management Plan, a Native Biodiversity policy
and an incomplete Roadside Biodiversity Management Plan (currently in Draft form).
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A Biodiversity policy is necessary as most protection of natural assets in the shire
focuses on the protection of native vegetation, catchments or waterways. A
Biodiversity policy is required address many issues not included in existing strategy,
particularly protection or management of wildlife populations or the protection of
natural systems that sustain biodiversity.
Council will act as an advocate and partner in developing regional catchment
strategies and other policies (See Action 2.3).
Riddell Ranges Estate (Shone & Scholz land) Inappropriate Subdivision
North West of Riddells Creek is the Riddell Ranges Estate inappropriate subdivision.
This subdivision was created in the 1890s and has never been developed. It
consists of 162 lots and covers approximately 120 hectares. Dirt roads into the
estate were established illegally in the early 1970s. At this time the developers
Shone and Scholz sold all the vacant lots to individuals. The Shire of Romsey
warned prospective purchasers that it would not issue permits for the development of
lots due to factors including poor land capability, absence of other services, fire risk
and landscape and environmental values.
Since the early 1970s successive Councils (former Shire of Romsey and Macedon
Ranges Shire) have consistently refused residential and other development of lots in
this inappropriate subdivision. To seek some resolution for land owners in the
Riddells Ranges Estate, a plan was developed to provide for a restructure of the titles
in to five lots. Landowners were requested to lease their property to Council for a
peppercorn rent (and to also gain a waiver of rates). Once Council had obtained
leases for the properties, it could restructure the subdivision into 5 lots of
approximately 24 hectares each. However landowners have not fully subscribed to
this program and there has not been any restructure of titles to date. In the interim,
some landowners have donated their land to Council, some are un-contactable and
others retain their land in the hope they can develop their land or gain some kind of
compensation. Council currently leases about 40% of properties. This restructure
process remains current Council policy.
In the Macedon Ranges Shire Planning Scheme, the area is covered by the Rural
Conservation Zone 1 (RCZ1) and with a Restructure Overlay (RO7), Significant
Landscape Overlay 1 (SLO1), and Vegetation Protection Overlay 9 (VPO9).
The area is widely recognised for the quality of its environmental values. Recent
surveys by volunteers and Biosis Research have highlighted the biodiversity values
of this land. Riddells Creek Landcare produced a flora book called ‘Macedon Range
Flora’ and ‘Statement of Significance’ and adopted Barrm Birrm16 as the name for
these slopes west of Riddells Creek. When preparing the book, the Riddells Creek
Landcare Group identified an entirely new plant variety in the inappropriate
subdivision, Stylidium armeria var. nov. Riddells Creek, or Hairy-Leaved Trigger
Plant. This is the first record of this plant to date. It is believed that the Hairy-Leaved
Barrm Birrm is a Wurundjeri expression for ‘many Yam Daisies’. Yam Daisies (Microceris species)
were a staple food of the Wurundjeri. It occurs in relatively large numbers on the lower slopes of
Barrm Birrm.
16
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Trigger Plant is the only truly endemic plant to the Macedon Ranges Shire. That is,
this is the only plant species that is unique to the Shire and grows nowhere else. A
process is currently in place to get the new variety listed under the Flora and Fauna
Guarantee Act 1988.
Overall 208 indigenous plant species have been identified in Barrm Birrm. Neville
Walsh, Senior Conservation Botanist with the Royal Botanic Gardens Australia writes
of Barrm Birrm:
“This land is remarkable, partly for its floral richness and the beauty of its
wildflowers, but also for the total absence of weeds across most of the
area and the intactness of the ground layer of the vegetation – a legacy
from the long absence of disturbances that have depleted most similar
situations within a day’s drive of Melbourne city.”17
Biosis Research has reviewed the Ecological Vegetation Class of the area and
identified much of it as Grassy Forest, which is classified as Vulnerable in this region.
The also identified the area as having a habitat quality ‘Class 1 – Relatively intact,
high landscape score’18
In a time of climate change, the rich biodiversity of Barrm Birrm is of increasing value
to our environment and broader community. The Macedon Ranges Shire has been
identified in a DSE report as potentially containing ‘Climate Change Refugia’, that is,
areas where a wide diversity of species can survive as climate change makes other
areas of Victoria unsuitable. 208 plant species have already been identified within
Barrm Birrm, which represent a significant proportion of the species found across the
Shire.
This species richness is of great ecological and scientific value and should be
protected and managed appropriately. Since at least the 1970s Barrm Birrm has
been accessed by the public for passive recreation and nature study and this is
highly valued by Riddells Creek residents. As the area is freely open to the public
and is unmanaged, anti-social behaviours including rubbish dumping, car dumping
and illegal recreational vehicle use are common-place.
The land is currently zoned Rural Conservation, but has a Restructure Overlay that
will allow for residential development of five lots. The restructure overlay is
incompatible with the objectives of the Conservation Zone, the Vegetation Protection
Overlay and the Significant Landscape Overlay in that there will be damage to
biodiversity values if even 5 lots are developed for dwellings and ancillary
infrastructure. The current Restructure Overlay is also incompatible with State
Policy, the Victorian Native Vegetation Framework which seeks to achieve a net gain
in the quality and extent of native Vegetation in Victoria. There are no cleared areas
on the Riddells Ranges Estate suitable for residential development. If the HairyLeaved Trigger Plant is listed in the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act, further
restrictions on development of the land may be in place.
17
18
Macedon Range Flora, 2008, R. Best & D. Francis, Riddells Creek Landcare
Macedon Ranges Shire Council Vegetation Mapping Project – Stage 1 2006, Biosis Research
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The Port Phillip and Westernport Catchment Management Authority Native
Vegetation Plan identify Grassy Forest as a priority to be permanently protected in
public reserves or under management agreements on private land. Therefore there
is a possibility of gaining government support for a conservation reserve on this land.
This Natural Environment Strategy therefore proposes Council reconsider its current
policy position in light of the growing value and understanding of the biodiversity and
community values of the Riddell Ranges Estate and that Council initiate a partnership
with community, State Government, and relevant agencies including Trust for Nature,
to create a flora and fauna reserve across the entire inappropriate subdivision.
Alternatively, with the emergence of the Bush Broker, Bush Tender and Carbon
Trading markets a program to develop a company with the current land owners as
shareholders (based on area of ownership) could be investigated as an alternative to
land acquisition, to preserve the biodiversity values of the land, provide for
maintenance, on ongoing public access and a level of income to land owners.
Action 4.12
Develop and implement a Macedon Ranges Shire Native Biodiversity
Protection and Management Policy.
Action 4.13 Complete the Macedon Ranges Shire Roadside Management
Plan
Action 4.14
Review current Council policy and investigate creating a flora and fauna
reserve over Barrm Birrm (Riddell Ranges Estate inappropriate subdivision) in
partnership with community, State Government and relevant agencies, with
consideration given to the interests of the current land owners.
Action 4.15
Identify areas of remnant native vegetation on private land that are high
priority for protection as identified in CMA Native Vegetation Plans. Liaise with
landowners, CMAs and DSE to investigate voluntary arrangements for
enhanced protection of the vegetation.
Create and implement a Macedon Ranges Shire Native Vegetation
Framework Offset Policy for Council-owned land.
Action 4.16
Review and continue to implement MRSC Weed Strategy.
Action 4.17
Develop and implement MRSC Integrated Pest Animal Strategy.
Action 4.18
Contribute to regional natural resource management policy development
processes.
Action 4.19
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Continue to implement Council’s Wastewater Management Plan for unsewered areas.
Action 4.20
Contribute to the future development and implementation of the Municipal Fire
Prevention Strategy Plan, including the promotion of a strong emphasis on
maintaining ecological processes through the appropriate use of fire
Action 4.21
Review local law regarding animal controls to protect indigenous species.
Implement Domestic Animal Management Plan actions to examine off leash
areas for dogs and a cat curfew.
Program 4.4 Research, mapping and resource assessment
This program details initiatives to help build information required by Council regarding
natural systems.
Solid scientific data is required by Council to adequately understand and manage
natural systems, and for strategic planning to ensure that natural values are identified
and protected in the MRSC Planning Scheme. Data is required to prepare the
Landscape Unit framework, measure progress of the Strategy, measure the quality
and extent of native habitat and to design local environmental projects.
The Natural Environment Strategy 2002 had a priority action to complete native
vegetation mapping for the Shire, with the data to be used to create appropriate
planning scheme overlays. Approximately 20 percent of the Shire has been mapped
under this initiative, however overlays are yet to be created based on these maps.
Adequate planning scheme protection of native vegetation cannot be achieved
without Shire-wide vegetation mapping, especially mapping of grassland and grassy
woodland vegetation types. An action (9.4) to map native vegetation is included in
Theme 9.
Since 2002 significant areas of Basalt Plains Grassland or modified Grassy
Woodlands have been lost, largely to rock clearing or cultivation. These ecological
vegetation classes are amongst the most endangered in Victoria. Basalt Plains
Grasslands are now listed under the Federal Environment Protection and Biodiversity
Conservation Act and the Victorian Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act . The Native
Vegetation Management Framework and Section 52.17 of the Macedon Ranges
Shire Planning Scheme also protect grassland and grassy woodland native
vegetation. Landowners need to be made aware of these legal protections, and
Council that will enforce relevant laws. Council will map these areas and work with
land managers to find ways to economically value and protect these endangered
vegetation types. See Action 4.4, 4.6, 4.7,4.11 and Action 9.6,
Consultants and government are not always the best agencies to undertake longterm scientific data collection. There are many successful models of community
research, such as WaterWatch, which can be built upon to increase understanding of
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local environments. Council will initiate a community environmental research
program.
Council will continue to maintain an inventory of the Shire’s biodiversity values and
share data with the Department of Sustainability and Environment, the Department of
Primary Industries and Catchment Management Authorities.
Action 4.22
Develop community environmental research projects to survey and help
monitor local flora and fauna populations.
Action 4.23
Develop a package of research and mapping project ideas and build links with
universities to encourage student research in the Shire.
Action 4.24
Develop a process for compiling consultants’ reports submitted to Council
through planning processes into reference material available to the broader
community, under the Landscape Units framework.
Action 4.25
Continue to fund the Melbourne Water ‘WaterWatch’ Program.
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Theme 5. Climate change mitigation, planning
and adaptation
Since 2002 the ongoing drought and broad acceptance of human-induced climate
change have dominated and shaped people’s understanding of the threats to the
sustainability of our communities. Tied in with these has been the increasing cost of
oil that shows our dependence upon a finite resource of supply which may already
have peaked.
Global warming and climate change: the enhanced greenhouse effect
Global warming is caused by an increase in ‘greenhouse’ gases in the Earth’s
atmosphere. The main greenhouse gases are water vapour, carbon dioxide,
methane and nitrous oxide. Households generate almost one fifth of all Australia’s
greenhouse gases. An average Australian household generates approximately 13
tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions each year from their direct use of electricity,
gas, transport fuels and other household fuels19.
How the Greenhouse Effect works
The Earth is covered by a
blanket of gases that
allow light energy from
the sun to reach the
Earth’s surface, where it
is converted to heat
energy. Most of the
energy is re-radiated
towards space, but some
is trapped by greenhouse
gases in the atmosphere.
This is a natural effect
which keeps the Earth’s
temperature at a level
necessary to support life.
19
From Australian Greenhouse Office, based on 2006 data, National Inventory by Economic Sector
2006. : http://www.greenhouse.gov.au/ inventory/2006/economic-sector.htm
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Human activity,
particularly burning fossil
fuels (coal, oil and natural
gas) and clear felling is
generating more of the
greenhouse gases.
Most scientists are
convinced that this is
trapping more heat and
raising the Earth’s
surface temperature,
resulting in climate
change on a global scale.
Figure 4. The Greenhouse Effect
Climate Change in Australia
20
In 2007 the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released their
fourth assessment report, concluding that:
 Warming of the climate system is unequivocal
 Humans are very likely to be causing most of the warming that has been
experienced since 1950
 It is very likely that changes in the global climate system will continue well
into the future, and that they will be larger than those seen in the recent past.
Predicted changes that will affect Macedon Ranges Shire include:

Temperature changes - By 2030 a temperature increase of between 0.4ºC
and 1.8ºC is predicted. This will result in the average number of days over
35ºC from 9 to 11-13 by 2030 and 12-17 by 2070.

Rainfall - It is predicted that there will be substantial variations in rainfall.
Overall in most of Victoria including the Macedon Ranges Shire area, rainfall
is likely to decrease in the range of 2 to 5% by 2030 and in the range of a 5 to
15% decrease by 2070, though there is some possibility of little change. The
seasonality of rainfall is also likely to change.

Evaporation and moisture balance - The warmer conditions will increase
evaporation. This will magnify any decrease in rainfall by further reducing the
available water in catchments for people and the environment.
20
Technical Report 2007 – Climate Change Australia.
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
Reduced stream flows - It is predicted that at 2055 total stream flow into the
Campaspe River will be between 9% and 54% below the long term average.
Stream in flows over the past 10 years have been 72% below the long term
average21 .
Therefore, we can expect a hotter, drier and less predictable climate in the future.
The effects that this will have on our indigenous plants and animals, water supply
and agriculture are uncertain. The risk of wildfire is likely to increase. The rural
residential nature of the Shire and limited public transport services in some areas
creates a higher reliance on cars which may not be sustainable into the future. The
response to climate change at a State and national scale will see the introduction of
an emissions trading scheme that will impact on many aspects of daily life, including
the cost of food, energy and transport. This in turn will encourage changes in the
way we work and live as we head towards a ‘low carbon’ economy.
Biodiversity and natural systems are also threatened by climate change. Council can
help landowners protect and enhance remnant native vegetation in the landscape so
we can retain as much of our biodiversity as possible. Macedon Ranges Shire
environment may have a significant role to play in providing 'climate refugia' for
indigenous flora and fauna. Climate refugia are areas that retain a range of habitats
suitable for species where surrounding habitats are being dramatically altered due to
changes in climate.
The magnitude of these changes can be lessened if we address greenhouse gas
issues globally and immediately. However, current trends continue to show
increasing greenhouse gas emissions. Victoria is one of the highest greenhouse gas
producers in the world per capita, largely because most of our electricity is generated
by burning brown coal, and Victorians are yet to fully embrace a conservation ethic or
invest heavily in renewable energy.
21
Draft Sustainable Water Strategy Northern Region 2008.
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Source
% of total emissions
Stationary energy production (primarily the production of
electricity and use of gas)
66.4%
Transport
16.3%
Fugitive emissions from fuel
1.6%
Industrial processes
2.0%
Agriculture
12.4%
Land use, land-use change and forestry22
-3.5%
Waste
3.5%
Total
100%
Table 2. Origins of Victoria’s greenhouse gas emissions.
Source: State & Territory Greenhouse Gas Inventories 2006, Australian Greenhouse Office,
Department of the Environment and Water Resources, June 2008.
These figures show that about 85% of emissions arise from stationary energy and
transport.
There is no specific data on greenhouse gas emissions for the Macedon Ranges
Shire community although these will be developed through the Council’s involvement
in the Central Victorian Greenhouse Alliance.
The annual emissions from the Council’s own activities were estimated at 3,800
tonnes of carbon dioxide in 2002, declining to 3,512 tonnes in the 2006 re-inventory.
Environmentally responsible housing
In many cases houses are not designed to minimise impacts on the environment.
Building codes have improved recently and recognise the importance of energy
efficient designs with the establishment of the 5 star home energy rating
requirements for new buildings and renovations. However this rating system only
introduces basic standards. There are many opportunities to improve the
environmental performance of homes that are yet to be adopted widely.
A large number of Macedon Ranges’ residents live away from towns, public transport
and services. In recent years, close to half of all new housing developments in the
Shire have occurred outside established urban areas23 . This results in the necessity
for many residents to drive to access services, producing significant quantities of
greenhouse gases. The Department of Sustainability and Environment Rural
22
Forestry acts as both a source of greenhouse gases when vegetation is harvested, and a sink of
greenhouse gases as new trees grow.
23 Macedon Ranges Rural Land Review 2002.
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Residential Development Guidelines (2006) provides guidance for developing
sustainable rural residential living. The Council’s Rural Living Strategy will provide
more detailed strategies for appropriate subdivision and development.
Many Macedon Ranges Shire residents commute to work in the city or to suburbs
west of the city. Roy Morgan Research's State of the Nation report on Automotive
Gas Emissions24 found that Victorians in general produce more automotive
emissions than other states with the electorate of McEwen which includes most of
the Macedon Ranges Shire producing the highest emissions in the nation, 6.6 tonnes
of carbon emissions per driver.
Reticulated natural gas has been connected to all major towns in the Shire. This
infrastructure project has helped improve air quality (fewer wood stoves) and
provides a cheaper energy source for heating than electricity and one that has less
climate change impacts. Natural gas produces far less greenhouse gas emissions
than electricity generated from brown coal to run equivalent appliances.
Current policy responses to climate change
The international commitment to address climate change was established through
the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change developed at the Rio
Earth Summit 1992. The objective of the convention is: ‘to achieve stabilisation of
greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere at a level that would prevent
dangerous human induced interference with the climate system’.
In 1995, signatories to this convention, including Australia, met at Kyoto to establish
a protocol to strengthen the commitment of developed countries for the post 2000
era.
In 2007 the Australian Government signed the Kyoto Protocol. Australia’s Kyoto
Protocol obligations include:



setting a target to reduce emissions by 60 per cent on 2000 levels by 2050
establishing a national emissions trading scheme by 2010
setting a 20 per cent target for renewable energy by 2020 to dramatically
expand the use of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind.
In December 2008 the Australian Government released a White Paper - Carbon
Pollution Reduction Scheme: Australia's Low Pollution Future. In this paper the
Government confirms its commitment to a long-term goal of reducing Australia’s
greenhouse gas emissions to 60 per cent below 2000 levels by 2050, with a mediumterm target range to reduce emissions by between 5 and 15 per cent below 2000
levels by 2020.
In June 2002, the Victorian Government launched the Victorian Greenhouse
Strategy. An Action Plan Update was released in 2005 to acknowledge national and
international developments in climate change policy, and build on the actions and
24
State of the Nation - Spotlight on Automotive Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Occupation in
Australia Roy Morgan Research 2007
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commitments initiated in 2002. In July 2006, the Victorian Government released Our
Environment, Our Future - Sustainability Action Statement 2006. Responding to the
challenge of climate change is a cornerstone of this document.
The Victorian Government is proceeding with the next stage of its climate change
strategy with a Green Paper to be released in January 2009. This continues the
dialogue started at the Climate Change Summit held in April 2008.
Council’s current actions
It has been estimated that local government has the capacity to influence 50% of the
greenhouse gases produced in Victoria through Council business and residents 25.
Council is progressively taking action to reduce its emissions and improve the energy
efficiency of its operations. The Council’s administration is now housed in two
offices, Gisborne and Kyneton. Energy audits are being carried out on these facilities
with a view to implementing improvements to reduce energy consumption and
greenhouse emissions. This Strategy proposes expanded efforts for working with the
community and business to reduce the Shire’s overall carbon footprint. Some
actions are common sense, welcome and easy to implement. In addition, there are
cost savings from energy efficiency initiatives.
Climate change may require a shift in lifestyle and limit energy-intensive aspirations.
Conversely a shift to a more sustainable mode of living will show benefits including
healthier lifestyles and new economic opportunities. Council has a responsibility to
help the community reduce emissions, adapt to climate change and help mitigate
impacts on the most vulnerable in the community.
Cities for Climate Protection™
The Cities for Climate Protection™ is an international program for local governments
dedicated to finding local solutions for global climate change. The program aims to
substantially reduce greenhouse gas emissions by reducing energy consumption by
local government authorities, and facilitating reductions by the community.
The Cities for Climate Protection™ program involves the completion of five strategic
milestones, including an emissions inventory, adoption of an emissions reduction
goal, and a Local Action Plan. Macedon Ranges Shire was one of the first Australian
councils to join the Cities for Climate Protection™ program in 1998 and has achieved
the 5th Milestone. Council is currently working towards completing a revised
Greenhouse Local Action plan.
The Council’s adopted target is to reduce greenhouse gases by 20% of our 1996
emissions by 2010. The 2002 report showed total emissions of 3,800 tonnes of
carbon dioxide from council’s activities. The 2006 re-inventory shows total emissions
of 3,512 tonnes, a reduction of 7% over the 2002 figure.
25
Sustainable Energy Authority Business Plan 2001-2002.
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Central Victorian Greenhouse Alliance
Macedon Ranges Shire is a member of the Central Victorian Greenhouse Alliance
(CVGA), comprising 14 local governments, and businesses and community
organisations. The CVGA is playing a key role in creating sustainable, climate-aware
communities and profitable, climate-friendly economies in the region. Its objectives
are:
 to reduce central Victorian greenhouse gas emissions by 30 per cent below
2000 levels by 2010 and
 to achieve zero net emissions by 2020.
The CVGA has been successful in gaining $15 million in funding from the
Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts , for a project under the
Solar Cities program. The Central Victoria Solar City project is run by a consortium.
Consortium members include Bendigo Bank, CVGA , Origin, Powercor Australia and
ZCO2e (pronounced Zedco) the commercial entity set up by CVGA to manage the
project and to consider other renewable energy options for the Central Victorian
community in the future.
The Central Victoria Solar City Project aims to:
 make solar technologies, including solar hot water and solar photovoltaic
products, more accessible and affordable
 trial energy efficiency measures
 trial demand management products including smart meters and new tariffs
 make the electricity network more secure
 demonstrate all the elements of a new sustainable model for electricity supply
and use
 gather information about energy management, consumption and generation in
rural and regional areas.
Wind Energy
The wind energy resource mapping for Victoria by the Wind Energy Research Unit of
CSIRO Land and Water identifies Macedon Ranges Shire as an area with high
potential for generation of renewable energy from wind. Sustainability Victoria has
identified that wind energy is a very cost effective method of generating electricity 26
and that wind energy can make a significant contribution to reducing CO2 emissions.
Wind farms are controversial and there is concern within the community about
detriment to the landscape and damage to the environment associated with
constructing the wind turbines and the associated power transmission lines. There
are also concerns that wind turbines threaten fauna such as birds or bats. Research
provided by Sustainability Victoria indicates that impacts on fauna are very low
compared to other threats such as impacts from vehicle collisions. Debate around
these issues will continue.
26
Wind Energy Myths and Facts, Sustainability Victoria 2007
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Planning approval for wind farms greater than 3 megawatts is controlled by the State
Government and approvals are assessed against the State Planning Policy.
Most commercial wind farms will be greater than 3 megawatts and Council has
limited influence and no authority over planning approvals. Council does provide
planning approval for wind farms less than 3 megawatts and Council will develop a
policy to guide its decision making for these facilities.
Transport Connections Project
Council is an active participant in the State Government’s Transport Connections
Project, which aims to improve access to public transport for rural Victorians. The
project in the Macedon Ranges Shire has successfully lobbied for a substantial
increase in the frequency of V/Line train services on the Bendigo line and the
addition of buses travelling from Lancefield to train stations in Sunbury, Riddells
Creek and Gisborne via Romsey. Another outcome of the project will see the addition
of a public transport service in Gisborne that takes commuters from their homes to
the train station in the morning and drops them home in the evenings. Meanwhile,
lobbying has commenced through the project for the addition of a service that will link
Lancefield and Romsey with Woodend on weekdays.
Green Plumbers
The Green Plumbers is an initiative of the Master Plumbers and Mechanical Services
Association of Australia. The program trains plumbers in greenhouse gas issues and
the role that they can play in reducing a household’s energy consumption and
thereby its effect on climate changes. Research has shown that the hot water
service is the appliance to which the least attention is paid by householders at the
time of replacement or purchase27 . A trained Green Plumber can advise on the
most energy efficient option for their hot water heater and also explain the energy
and greenhouse gas savings over time. Green Plumbers are also trained in energy
efficient heating for homes.
The Shire supports the Green Plumber program through hosting and promoting
training sessions.
Theme 5 Aims:
To reduce climate change impacts from Council operations by increasing
efficient energy use, increasing the use of renewable energy and offsetting
impacts.
To ensure Council plans for effective adaptation to climate change.
For Council to effectively motivate community and business to initiate
changes in attitude and behaviour that will help people mitigate
greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to climate change.
27
MPMSA research 2001.
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Theme 5 Objectives

To significantly reduce or offset greenhouse gas emissions from Council
operations and from the community.

To encourage and facilitate the adoption of renewable energy sources and
energy-efficient options by Council and across the household and business
sectors of the community.

To promote energy efficient housing and subdivision through the planning and
development approvals process.

To advocate for energy efficient and socially equitable transport options.
Theme 5 Success measures

Reduction in emissions

Reduction in energy use

Area of offset plantings

Growth in use of public transport.
Program 5.1 Climate change local action
Council will lead in emission reduction by adopting an emissions reduction target for
Council’s operations, and developing and implementing a Local Action Plan to deliver
the target.
Examples of actions that may be included in the Local Action Plan are:










improving energy efficiency in Council buildings including such modifications
as up-graded insulation and double glazing, modifications to heating and
cooling
advocating for higher standards for energy and water efficient design for new
buildings or renovations
reducing emissions from Council’s vehicle fleet by rationalising car trips and
using smaller fuel efficient vehicles or adopting alternative fuels
teleconferencing and video conferencing to reduce travel to meetings
reviewing options for fuelling Council Works trucks and earthmoving
equipment
completing Energy and Water Audits of all 111 units of Council-owned public
housing and commence retrofits. Benefits include lower costs for residents
installation of solar hot water systems on Council buildings
installation of photo-voltaic arrays on Council buildings, connected to the grid
purchase of Green Power by Council
purchase or establishment of carbon offsets through carbon sequestration
planting.
Action 5.1
Adopt the CVGA target to reduce Council’s greenhouse gas emissions by
30% below 2000 levels by 2015, and achieve zero net emissions by 2020.
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Action 5.2
Develop and implement a revised Greenhouse Local Action Plan to achieve
the emissions reduction target.
Action 5.3
Continue to participate in Cities for Climate Protection™ Program.
Action 5.4
Continue to be an active member and contributor to the Central Victorian
Greenhouse Alliance, including the Central Victoria Solar City Project.
Action 5.5
Continue to support the Green Plumbers program.
Action 5.6
Continue to pursue sustainable transport initiatives including advocacy and
planning for improved public transport, car pooling and development of bicycle
path networks.
Action 5.7
Investigate options for the purchase of 100% Green Power for all Council
electricity use.
Action 5.8
In partnership with community and private sector help, establish local
demonstration sustainable housing and industrial development exceeding
current standards of building energy and water efficiency.
Action 5.9 Actively promote existing incentives or rebates from other
agencies or levels of government.
Action 5.10 Advocate for continued State and Federal Government action on
Climate Change.
Program 5.2 MRSC climate change risk management
Climate change predictions show that there is a range of risk factors that will
potentially affect the local environment and the community, including public health,
business and agriculture, and fire risk. A whole-of-community risk analysis will enable
Council to examine the likely effects on the community particularly in relation to
Council business and service provision, and then develop strategies to address the
challenges that are identified.
Action 5.11
Complete a whole-of-community Climate Change Risk Analysis.
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Program 5.3 Community action for climate change
Council partnerships with community groups to deliver climate change projects and
education/training to the community will be continued and expanded. These may
include new ideas, such as local 'open offices' (where office space and facilities can
be rented for short periods, or for a small number of hours per week, similar to an
internet café) to reduce commuting.
Action 5.12
Prepare and deliver a Communication and Education Plan for the community
about methods of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The Plan will focus on
providing tools to help residents assess and reduce their impacts.
Action 5.13
Continue to support the Macedon Ranges Sustainability Group and other
community groups involved in actions to reduce greenhouse emissions.
Action 5.14
Encourage development of more local jobs to reduce travel to work. Advocate
for improved information technology networks and open offices to reduce
work-related travel.
Action 5.15
Support and publicise energy and water efficiency rebates provided by other
agencies.
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Theme 6. Recycling, waste and protecting air
quality
Waste and recycling are perhaps the most well-established environmental services
provided by local government. Waste management is a fundamental service,
originally with a core objective to protect public health. In the emerging world of the
21st century with high energy and raw material costs and the requirement to lower
carbon emissions, it is no longer responsible to pursue the waste management
policies of the past. Councils have changed emphasis from waste disposal to waste
reduction and recycling as the value of raw materials and energy have increased,
and space to dispose of waste has become limited.
Landfills not only generate greenhouse gases (mainly methane) but also have the
potential to contaminate groundwater. All three of Council’s landfill sites have been
closed. Each site is being rehabilitated and there is a program of ongoing
groundwater monitoring.
A new transfer station has been constructed at Romsey, and the Woodend and
Kyneton transfer stations have been upgraded, which provide the opportunity to
recycle a wide range of products and materials. There are no plans or need to create
new landfill sites in the Shire. Materials will be transported to landfills at Sunbury and
Castlemaine. Therefore it is necessary to minimise the volume of garbage to landfill.
Kerbside recycling provides environmental benefits by conserving renewable
resources, diverting material from landfill and saving net energy by manufacturing
containers from recycled materials. Council will motivate residents to increase
existing high levels of recycling and to generate less waste.
The State Government Towards Zero Waste Strategy sets a state-wide target of a
65% diversion rate from landfill by 2014. Council has an adopted Waste
Management Strategy. The Strategy acknowledges the State Government target
and recognises that the municipalities with the best kerbside diversion rate have a
kerbside green waste service. Council’s current diversion rate from kerbside
services is 35% whereas leading municipalities with a kerbside green waste service
achieve a rate of 55%.
The Waste Management Strategy includes a range of recommendations to achieve
an improved diversion rate for Macedon Ranges Shire. These include:




investigating provision of a kerbside green waste service.
investigating extending the kerbside garbage and recycling collection to
the whole Shire post 2011.
introducing public place recycling
continuing to collect unwanted computer and electrical waste from
transfer stations.
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
exploring opportunities for partnerships to establish a resale facility to
divert salvageable materials and equipment from transfer stations.
Air quality is primarily the responsibility of the Environment Protection Authority
Victoria, but Council will provide leadership by delivering education programs and
minimising its own pollution (for example, by management of pool chemicals, depot
fuel storage and herbicide use). Carbon dioxide emissions are the most immediate
pollution concern and this is dealt with under the Climate Change Theme (above).
The other main air pollution problem identified in Macedon Ranges Shire is smoke
from wood heating and burning off, especially in townships. Air quality in our towns
is compromised most during the colder months and is poorest on still nights when
smoke is not dispersed by wind. Burning of garden waste in some areas also
creates air pollution. Wood smoke is a problem because it partly consists of
microscopic particles that can lead to respiratory disease or can exacerbate allergies
or asthma.
Fortunately natural gas has been connected to all large towns, though not all parts of
towns are connected, particularly low density areas. The connection of natural gas
will result in a steady drop in smoke pollution over time. However Council still needs
to motivate residents with wood fires to use wood more efficiently to reduce smoke
pollution. Council also has a role in the regulation of incinerators and burning of
garden waste.
In some areas air quality is affected by industry or intensive agriculture, including
chicken and pig farms though these are generally of nuisance value, not usually a
concern for health or environment and a generally accepted part of the local
agriculture industry.
Theme 6 Aim:
To reduce the volume of waste going to landfill and to increase reuse and
recycling across the community, including Council operations.
To ensure air quality is improved.
Theme 6 Objectives

To minimise our waste and maximise reuse and recycling.

To achieve a noticeable improvement in air quality in all townships.
Theme 6 Success measures

Waste statistics.

Air quality monitoring data.
Program 6.1 Waste Management Strategy
Council’s Waste Management Strategy will be implemented.
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Action 6.1
Implement the adopted Waste Management Strategy including investigation of
green waste collection and extension of kerbside garbage and recycling
services.
Action 6.2
Continue Calder Waste Management Group membership and community
education program.
Program 6.2 Urban Air Quality Protection
An urban air quality protection program will be developed and implemented.
Action 6.3
Deliver an education program on issues regarding wood smoke in townships.
Action 6.4
Review local laws regarding air quality, including the use of incinerators and
burning off on residential properties, taking air quality into account.
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Theme 7. Sustainable water use
The Macedon Ranges Shire gives rise to four major waterways: the Maribyrnong,
Campaspe, Coliban and Werribee Rivers. Traditionally the area has enjoyed reliable
rainfall, ensuring adequate water for urban centres such as Gisborne, Macedon,
Woodend, Kyneton and the city of Bendigo as well as environmental flows to sustain
aquatic ecosystems.
Wet winters are a fading memory for some and just a story for children under 12.
The Rosslynne Reservoir which once supplied Gisborne and the reservoirs in the
Coliban catchment that once supplied Bendigo are barren landscapes. Today
Melbourne catchments in the Yarra Ranges supplement our supply and Bendigo
receives much of its water from the Murray system. Water restrictions are the norm
not the exception, as are tanks on houses throughout the Shire.
Creeks barely flow at all, and in many places only deep pools remain with declining
water quality. This ongoing dry will have significant impacts on aquatic ecosystems.
Under natural conditions, water recharges and discharges from an aquifer system at
a level of equilibrium. In the recent past, prior to current drought conditions, most
groundwater systems were rising due to the activities of humans, causing many of
the salinity problems in the Murray-Darling Basin. However, in recent years,
localised harvesting of groundwater by bores in the upper catchment may be
depleting the aquifer, reducing environmental flows and placing pressure on aquatic
ecosystems.
A new commitment to water use efficiency has to be developed as rainfall diminishes
and urban areas expand further.
As with many environmental issues, solving the problem can present challenges, but
the outcome can show great long-term benefits. For example Council’s Recreation
and Cultural Services Unit has taken advantage of a range of funding programs
allowing Council in partnership with Western Water and Coliban Water to use
recycled water on many sporting ovals and install rainwater tanks in reserves. This
investment in sustainable infrastructure has many benefits including reduced use of
potable water, lower volumes of high-nutrient water released to waterways and much
improved sporting facilities across the Shire.
Macedon Ranges Shire Council has a role in showing leadership in reducing its
water consumption and as a partner in water education. The action programs below
focus on Council water use and efficiency, stormwater management and community
education.
Theme 7 Aims:
To reduce Council's use of potable water and increase use of other
sustainable sources of water.
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As a partner with water retailers to motivate the community to achieve
ongoing increased water use efficiency, rainwater harvesting and use of
recycled water.
Theme 7 Objectives

To reduce water use.

To increase onsite rainwater capture within a closed system (water tanks).

To increase use of recycled water.

To explore the capture of stormwater for use on public open space.
Theme 7 Success measures

Reserves converted to recycled water

Buildings fitted with water-saving devices

Rainwater tanks installed

Water consumption data, volumes of water treated in waste-water treatment
plants.
Program 7.1 Stormwater management
Council’s Stormwater Management Plan will be implemented, including investigations
into capture and use of stormwater in partnership with Melbourne Water.
Action 7.1
Implement Council’s Stormwater Management Plan.
Program 7.2 Water conservation
The MRSC Sustainable Water Use Plan will be completed and implemented.
Action 7.2
Develop and implement Sustainable Water Use Plan for Council’s water use.
Action 7.3
Advocate for monitoring of groundwater extraction and for the introduction of
management measures where drawdown is excessive.
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Theme 8. Ecologically sustainable economy
Local small to medium businesses drive the Macedon Ranges Shire economy and
provide the most employment. There are few large scale corporate employers in the
Shire, so the small business sector is critical to the economic and social wellbeing of
the region. A significant proportion of the business sector relies heavily on the quality
of the local environment including agriculture and tourism. Businesses are also
significant users of energy and water resources. Increasingly there will be more
opportunities for businesses to provide a range so sustainability related products and
services. For example a local business recently won a national award for the quality
of its products and services.
Council’s Economic Development and Tourism Department is currently completing
an Economic Development Strategy for the Shire. This Strategy will rejuvenate
Council’s support for local business giving full recognition of its value to the region
and the local community. Council has a role to facilitate the building of business
networks across the Shire and to encourage Environmental Management Systems
(EMS) and marketing frameworks relevant to different business sectors.
Environmental Management Systems provide a process for a business to improve its
ecological sustainability and economic viability. EMSs usually include administrative
tools for reducing water, waste or energy consumption and they are usually specific
to individual industries. Businesses that implement EMSs are usually able to
demonstrate cost savings and the reports on their progress become useful for
marketing their products or services.
A marketing framework built around Environmental Management Systems allows
business operating in a particular industry or region to collectively promote their
products and services reducing advertising costs and heightening their professional
standing and credibility. This could include a local green accreditation logo
(Environmental Actions Brand) linked to a ranked program where a business
achieves “Green Stars” for a range of different sustainability actions.
For example, the Macedon Ranges wine region is a recognised ‘appellation’, that is,
a region that gives specific characters or qualities to wine. An opportunity exists to
develop an EMS and marketing framework that promotes the Macedon Ranges wine
region and demonstrates the sustainability actions being pursued by the viticulture
industry.
The Voluntary Environmental Resource Inventory (VERI) is a tool kit developed by
the Macedon Ranges Shire to assist prospective land sellers or purchasers to assess
the environmental attributes of the land. This tool will continue to be promoted by
Council to help factor sustainability into land sales negotiations.
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Theme 8 Aim:
To support local urban and rural businesses to move towards ecological
sustainability in a way that enhances local business opportunities and
viability.
Theme 8 Objectives

To encourage and facilitate economic development in the Shire that is
consistent with principles of ecological sustainability.

To build the capacity of existing businesses to take advantage of new
opportunities related to ecological sustainable development.

To identify and capitalise on local opportunities to develop new industries or
markets with a strong grounding in ecological sustainability.
Theme 8 Success measures

General local economic indicators

Strength of agricultural industry associations

Business sustainability, reduced energy use, reduced waste, number involved

Number of Environmental Management Systems developed and implemented

Strength of farmers’ markets
Program 8.1 Regional environmental education network
Action 8.1
Develop a regional environmental education network. Work with education
institutions in the Shire to foster and promote the Macedon Ranges Shire as a
regional ‘centre of excellence’ for environmental education.
Program 8.2 Ecologically sustainable industries and land use
Action 8.2
Assist local landowners to make the most of Bush Broker, Bush Tender,
carbon trading, and similar natural system services markets or programs.
Action 8.3
Explore economically and ecologically sustainable land use options,
particularly for small properties (e.g. farm forestry, firewood crops, biofuels,
and horticulture).
Action 8.4
Develop a Wind Farm Policy.
Action 8.5
Continue to promote and develop the Voluntary Environmental Resource
Inventory (VERI) to help factor sustainability into land sales negotiations.
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Action 8.6
Encourage development of more local jobs to reduce travel to work. Advocate
for improved information technology networks and open offices to reduce
work-related travel.
Shire-wide project will be undertaken to help businesses audit energy use and
implement measures to reduce emissions.
Program 8.3 Auditing, marketing and branding
Council will facilitate regional product branding linked to the development of
Environmental Management Systems for Macedon Ranges Shire agricultural and
non-agricultural business sectors under the Environmental Action Brand. An
Environmental Management System is part of the management system of an
organisation defining specific procedures, competencies, behaviours necessary to
implement the environmental policy of the organisation and achieve specific
standards.
Action 8.7 Continue to facilitate a ‘Sustainable Businesses’ program
including developing a regional branding and Environmental Management
Systems for non-agricultural businesses in the Shire. This could include
energy audit, water audit, waste/recycling audit and implementation of
efficiency measures.
Action 8.8
Establish ecological sustainability award category in the Macedon Ranges
Business Awards for high-achieving urban and rural businesses.
Action 8.9
Facilitate regional product branding under the Environmental Action Brand tied
to Environmental Management Systems for Shire agricultural sectors, with
links to the Voluntary Environmental Resource Inventory.
Action 8.10
Provide input into the preparation of the Economic Development Policy
(currently under review) to encourage environmentally sustainable
businesses.
Action 8.11
Seek interested landowners and liaise with farmers’ markets to develop
‘Community Supported Agriculture’ in the Shire. Explore options for land
sharing (a scheme which puts people with unused gardens/agricultural land in
touch with gardeners/farmers wanting space) to allow for economies of scale.
Action 8.12
The Economic Development Department to work with the Planning
Department to identify areas suitable for tourism development that is
compatible with local environmental assets.
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Theme 9. Land use planning
Macedon Ranges Shire’s social and economic future is entwined with the quality of
the natural environment, protection of rural landscapes and wise use of renewable
and non-renewable resources. Recently Macedon Ranges Shire has been ranked
highly on ‘liveability’ scores which in part are derived from residents valuing highly
the quality of our natural environment and landscapes. Council has a lead role in
planning the sustainable development of communities and local industries and
business. Visionary strategic planning is required to help balance pressures for
growth with sustainable management of natural systems and rural landscapes.
In the Council Plan, the Planning and Development unit has an objective “To
encourage appropriate development enhancing our lifestyle and community by
developing clear directions, strategies and responsible stewardship of the natural and
built environment based on consultation with our partners and with respect for the
diverse views in our community”.
Planning to guide and control the use and development of land is an essential tool in
moving towards ecological sustainability. Both Council and the community see land
use planning as a key issue for the Natural Environment Strategy, which in turn gives
direction to policies and controls in the Shire Planning Scheme.
There are many significant strategic planning challenges. These include supporting
an ageing population and potential need for more local employment to reduce
reliance on long-distance commuting. There is tension between the idea that higher
urban densities around transport nodes are more sustainable than suburban sprawl,
yet residents of townships would prefer the densities of towns not to increase so as
to retain a rural township character. Low housing densities reduce housing
affordability especially at the ‘first home owner’ level.
There are many other strategic planning questions such as; is there enough water to
supply a growing population in the Macedon Ranges Shire and can our creeks cope
with the increasing volumes of treated effluent if there are no environmental flows
flushing the system? The popularity of tourism, especially day-trips occasioned by
the proximity to Melbourne, has the potential to erode the rural amenity and degrade
environments, whilst at the same time offering significant commercial opportunities
and economic benefits.
Council will work through issues such as these by investing in effective consultation
and research to build a clear understanding of ways to create sustainable
communities that marry with local social, economic and environmental context.
Statutory planning will be more effective in meeting sustainability objectives with
appropriate tools and information. Actions below seek to improve tools available to
statutory planners28.
28
It should be noted that the role of the planning system is mainly focused on change of use or new
use and development. It has limited control over land management practices associated with existing
use and development, which may have adverse environmental impacts.
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Land use patterns
In the northern and eastern areas of the Shire, broad-acre agriculture is the major
land use, with rural-lifestyle living on the fringes of Kyneton. The southern areas of
the Shire are characterised by more intensive rural residential subdivision, however
there are still many notable broad acre properties. Amongst the larger properties are
highly capitalised racehorse breeding, sheep and cattle farming, larger vineyards and
some cropping including canola. Land use on smaller properties ranges over wine
grape production, horse breeding, tourism and niche agriculture.
The majority of land in the Shire is in good condition and retains the essential
characteristics that allow the continuation of farming in the region well into the future.
The rolling terrain protects most land from salinity, but there are some areas at risk
from erosion. There are some environmental problems that have the potential to limit
agriculture in the future. Soil acidification may pose a severe problem on certain soil
types in the future, and weeds are currently creating significant problems in many
areas with the potential to spread and further dominate the landscape in the future.
Pressures for change
Macedon Ranges Shire is at the rural-urban fringe, which brings about many land
use planning challenges. For example, there was a population growth rate of
approximately 10% in the period between the 1996 and 2001 censuses. The growth
rate dropped to 1.2% in the period between 2001 and 2006.29. However there is still a
strong demand for rural residential living. The 2030 Urban Growth Boundary may
create more demand in the future for residential land in the Shire. This exerts
pressure on the environment through the associated development needed to
accommodate the new residents. The traditional rural industries are also no longer
the mainstay of the Macedon Ranges economy. Industries such as tourism are
becoming more significant.
Many factors have combined to perpetuate a process of subdividing rural land for
urban and rural-residential development. These include increasing numbers of
people wishing to live in rural areas, perceived potential for land development leading
to increased land values, and long periods of poor seasons combined with low
agricultural commodity prices. The breakdown of broad acre farming results in
dwindling numbers of traditional commercial land managers. The farmers who
remain become a minority and the local farm economy diminishes, as do farm
networks that provide ‘economies of scale’, and information sharing. This in turn
increases pressures on the traditional farmers and motivates landowners to move
their operations to more active agricultural regions or contributes to the further
fragmentation of the land. In terms of ecological sustainability, large areas of land
suitable for food production are lost, as is much detailed land management
knowledge of the region.
29
Based on Australian Bureau of Statistics data 2006.
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The trend to small landholdings may not prove to be a long-term problem as new
markets for niche agricultural products or agriculture that meets local produce needs
could become economically viable, using new technologies for production and
marketing. The soils, climate and proximity of the Shire to the large population of
Melbourne provide opportunities for new agricultural/horticultural industries.
Valued landscapes and natural assets – Statement of Planning Policy No.8
The landscape and aesthetic values of the Shire are not only important to its
residents, but are recognised as important to the wider population of Victoria and
Australia. Much of the area’s tourism results from the impressive landscape and
areas such as Hanging Rock and the Macedon Range are Australian icons.
In recognition of the importance of the area’s landscape and environmental values,
Statement of Planning Policy Number 8 (SPP No.8) was developed in 1975, covering
the Macedon Range and a large area of the Shire from Carlsruhe, east to Lancefield,
south to Clarkefield and west of Gisborne. The policy outlines the planning and
management necessary for the conservation and utilisation of the policy area both as
a water catchment for urban and local supply and as a location of state, metropolitan
and local importance for leisure activities and nature conservation .
Statement of Planning Policy No 8 is a reference document in the current Macedon
Ranges Shire Planning scheme. The social, economic and environmental values
defined in SPP No.8 and its objectives to protect these values continue to inform the
current Planning Scheme.
Planning in Victoria
Land use planning in Victoria is governed by the Planning and Environment Act
1987. There are seven objectives for Planning in Victoria, of which three are directly
relevant to the Natural Environment Strategy. They are:



to provide for the protection of natural and man-made resources and the
maintenance of ecological processes and genetic diversity
to secure a pleasant, efficient and safe working, living and recreational
environment for all Victorians and visitors to Victoria, and
to balance the present and future interests of all Victorians. (This relates to
the concept of intergenerational equity, a fundamental concept in ecological
sustainability on which the Natural Environment Strategy is based.)
The Act prescribes the items to be included in all Planning Schemes in Victoria,
including the State Planning Policy Framework, the Local Planning Policy
Framework, and standard Zones and Overlays as applied to land in the municipality.
The State Planning Policy Framework is standardised throughout Victoria and sets
the strategic/policy framework of each municipality’s Planning Scheme. The Local
Planning Policy Framework includes the Municipal Strategic Statement and local
policies. It is specific to the planning needs and aspirations of the municipality.
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The Shire Planning Scheme
The Macedon Ranges Shire Planning Scheme sets out policies and requirements for
the use, development and protection of land in the municipality. Planning Schemes
are based on a defined format specified by the State Government to ensure
consistent planning policy is applied across Victoria. Planning processes overall are
governed by the Planning and Environment Act 1987.
Land use activities are managed in accord with the planning scheme zones and
overlays. Key policy directions are defined in the Municipal Strategic Statement and
associated ’reference documents’. Reference documents included in the planning
scheme must be considered by Council in decision making processes. The Natural
Environment Strategy 2009 is intended to be listed as a ‘reference document’ under
the planning scheme. As such the Natural Environment Strategy that will be taken
into account by Council when considering planning issues relating to the natural
environment.
The Planning Scheme can be accessed on the Department of Planning and
Community Development website; or viewed at the Kyneton or Gisborne Service
Centres.
Municipal Strategic Statement
The Municipal Strategic Statement (MSS) is Council’s key strategic planning
document. The MSS:





provides a summary of Council’s key strategic land use planning directions
relating to land use and development
provides a strategic framework within which decisions can be made
articulates a strategic vision about the Shire’s future
establishes links between objectives, strategies, policies, Council initiatives
and the State Planning Policy Framework; and
provides strategic justification for zones, overlays, local policies and controls
contained in the planning scheme.
The MSS is a forward-looking document that has a 10-15 year outlook with a
statutory requirement for a review every 3 years. The MSS is currently being
reviewed, with a view to aligning strategic directions of the Natural Environment
Strategy with the MSS.
The MSS shares many of the objectives of the Natural Environment Strategy,
including maintaining areas of environmental significance for the protection of soil
and water, biodiversity and landscape values.
Rural Land Review (2002)
The Rural Land Review found that ‘the environment and landscapes of the Macedon
Ranges Shire are a critical element of planning in rural areas’. The implications of
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environmental management decisions have a local and regional focus. The key
environmental issues in the rural areas of the Macedon Ranges Shire include:

the protection, maintenance and enhancement of remnant vegetation and the
habitat it provides

the management of water quality, especially within proclaimed water
catchments

the protection of land from environmental risks such as erosion and salinity

the promotion of sustainable land management and agricultural practices, and
the promotion of sustainable residential development in a rural setting

the maintenance of rural landscapes and open space for aesthetic,
recreational and economic benefits.
Environmental Management Guidelines
Under Clause 22.05 of the Planning Scheme, all applications for new use and
development on non-urban land must be consistent with the performance criteria
provided with Council’s Environmental Management Guidelines. An Environmental
Management Plan will generally be required where there is a risk that the proposal
may be detrimental to environmental, agricultural or landscape values.
Council’s current actions
The Planning Scheme is being implemented with a view to maintaining the
environmental and landscape values of the Shire in accordance with the Municipal
Strategic Statement and Council’s Vision 2025.
Land use planning issues relating to the natural environment are referred to the
Council’s Conservation Planner for ecological assessment. Where appropriate,
Environmental Management Plans or Farm Management Plans are requested to help
ensure ongoing sustainable management of land. For some proposals detailed
ecological reports are required aid assessment and to help identify and protect
natural assets.
Council is developing a variety of new planning polices including a Rural Living
Strategy, Industrial Land Strategy and Outline Development Plans for Kyneton,
Romsey, Riddells Creek and Gisborne.
Council encourages new developments to be designed with regard to ‘Guidelines for
Residential Subdivision in the Macedon Ranges Shire: Designing in Health &
Wellbeing’. These guidelines identify the important link between residential
subdivision design, and building community health and wellbeing. Therefore, these
Guidelines identify the following objectives for inclusion in residential development
proposals for Council consideration:


the promotion of healthy lifestyles;
the building of safe communities;
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

the protection of the natural environment and the prevailing rural landscape,
and
the conservation of finite resources.
The Guidelines stress the importance of new subdivisions being walkable and the
provision for lot orientation to maximise solar energy opportunities.
Ongoing Native Vegetation Mapping and proposed creation of planning scheme
Overlays helps to identify the conservation values of natural areas across the shire.
This information will be incorporated into the Planning Scheme as a set of overlays to
better protect the ecological values of natural areas through the planning process.
Information on pest plant and animal control or revegetation with indigenous species
is provided to residents and developers to help them fulfil the environmental
requirements of their planning approval.
Theme 9 Aim:
To ensure strategic and statutory planning have the tools and resources to
continue to move land use and new developments towards ecological
sustainability for the benefit of the community and local environment.
Theme 9 Objectives

To ensure that the Macedon Ranges Shire Planning Scheme enhances the
protection and sustainable management of the Shire’s landscapes, soil, water,
air and biodiversity assets.

To utilise opportunities to improve the Planning Scheme to ensure that the
principles of ecological sustainability are considered and implemented in new
developments and use of land.

To continue to bring together and coordinate the professional knowledge, skill
and experience of Council staff to more effectively analyse and address local
issues towards finding ecologically sustainable solutions.

To develop a framework for compiling knowledge and information that is
detailed, geographically referenced and easily accessible for Council, staff and
the community.
Theme 9 Success measures

Landscape Units identified and supporting documentation developed

Multidisciplinary strategic planning - regular meetings and completed actions.
Policy and strategic directions
The Natural Environment Strategy will be taken into account in the Planning Scheme
reviews and Municipal Strategic Statement reviews. The key aim of ecologically
sustainable development will become strongly reflected in the Planning Scheme
through these review processes. This will strengthen the relationship between the
Planning Scheme and the Natural Environment Strategy. Many of the Actions
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identified in the Natural Environment Strategy will also have a direct impact on the
Planning Scheme.
A Biodiversity Policy is proposed in the Natural Environment Strategy 2009 (See
Action 4.12). This policy will consider issues such as the impact of development on
Kangaroo populations or the movement of wildlife through the landscape.
Recommendations from this policy may shape future amendments to the planning
scheme.
All existing planning scheme instruments will continue to be applied in order to
protect water catchments, erosion prone areas and native vegetation.
Council will encourage new residential development and redevelopment to occur
within existing urban settlements, in order to minimise encroachment into rural and
bushland landscapes and to enable efficient infrastructure provision, while ensuring
that the existing amenity of settlements is maintained.
Overlays will be prepared and incorporated into the Planning Scheme to protect the
habitat of animal and plant species of high conservation significance as appropriate
levels of information become available.
Where indigenous vegetation must be removed for an approved development,
Council will follow the requirement of the Native Vegetation Framework to achieve a
net gain in the quality and extent of native vegetation. The net gain principle for
native vegetation and habitat is that ‘there is a reversal, across the entire landscape,
of the long-term decline in the extent and quality of native vegetation, leading to a net
gain’ (Victorian Native Vegetation Management Framework 2002).
Appropriate conditions will be imposed on planning permits for use or development
so as to prevent or mitigate environmental effects, and protect or enhance soil, water
and biodiversity assets.
Council will establish and maintain strong partnerships with State government
agencies and research institutions to facilitate further environmental data collection
and continuing improvement in planning provisions for natural environmental and
landscape protection.
Program 9.1 Landscape Units
One of the major initiatives in the Strategy is the development of Landscape Units.
The Macedon Ranges Shire has significant variations in topography, climate and
vegetation. Landscape Units will be developed to identify geographic areas with
common environmental assets, risks and issues. Management guidelines and
projects will be developed for each of the units30. Landscape Units enable Council to
strategically allocate resources to specific areas based on need or priority. The
30
For example weeds are a widespread problem but Chilean Needle Grass is restricted to the South
East of the Shire. A project to address Chilean Needle Grass only needs to be delivered to this area,
not the whole Shire.
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Landscape Units will also help the public see and understand where and why
projects are being delivered.
The Units will be delineated by overlaying a range of environmental data maps and
looking for patterns and boundaries. Data maps will include catchment boundaries,
rainfall gradients, ecological vegetation class information, geology, land use,
settlement and topography. The map below is a draft Landscape Units map. For
each Landscape Unit there will be a description, issues and projects, plus lists of
relevant documents that relate to that area.
Geographically determined projects are beneficial in building project partnerships,
particularly where potential partners’ boundaries do not align with Council
boundaries. Landscape Units also provide a sound basis for describing many of the
natural assets of the shire and some of the social/economic opportunities and
threats. This information can then be translated into the MSS and the Planning
Scheme.
The information compiled within the Landscape Unit framework will inform strategic
planning processes, for example the development of Outline Development Plans,
Structure Plans or Planning Scheme Amendments and reviews. The Landscape
Units will provide a description of key environmental and landscape assets suitable
for inclusion in the Macedon Ranges Shire Municipal Strategic Statement or provide
criteria for development of areas.
The projects identified in the Landscape Units will link in with Action Programs in
other Themes, and will be developed as sub-projects within the Environmental Action
Brand framework.
Action 9.1
Delineate Landscape Units for the Shire:
 Determine unit boundaries based on vegetation, climate, topography, risks.
 Develop Geographic Information System layers to record data.
 Prepare supporting information for each unit, including: descriptions,
issues, risks and actions and reference lists.
 Develop unit specific Actions for each unit..
Action 9.2
Investigate inclusion of Landscape Units and descriptions into the Macedon
Ranges Shire Municipal Strategic Statement.
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Figure 5. Macedon Ranges Shire Draft Landscape Units
Table 3. Proposed Landscape Units within the
Macedon Ranges Shire
Landscape Units
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Catchments
CMA
River
Catchment
1
Todds & Mollisons Creek Catchment
GBCMA
Goulburn
2
Baynton-Sidonia Hills
NCCMA
Campaspe
3
Campaspe Headwaters
NCCMA
Campaspe
4
Campaspe Plains
NCCMA
Campaspe
5
Five Mile Creek and Carlsruhe Plain
NCCMA
Campaspe
6
Kyneton Hills
NCCMA
Campaspe
7
Woodend
NCCMA
Campaspe
8
Coliban Headwaters
NCCMA
Coliban
9
Bolinda Plains
PPWCMA
Maribyrnong
10
Bylands Hills
PPWCMA
Maribyrnong
11
Chintin Hills and Gorges
PPWCMA
Maribyrnong
12
Deep Creek South
PPWCMA
Maribyrnong
13
Eastern Ranges
PPWCMA
Maribyrnong
14
Gisborne Plains
PPWCMA
Maribyrnong
15
Macedon Forests and Towns
PPWCMA
Maribyrnong
16
Mt William Range
PPWCMA
Maribyrnong
17
Newham - Deep Creek Headwaters
PPWCMA
Maribyrnong
18
Romsey Plains
PPWCMA
Maribyrnong
19
Southern Catchments
PPWCMA
Maribyrnong
Program 9.2 MRSC Planning Developer Reference Group (PDRG)
Elements of the Shire’s Planning Scheme and other policy are frequently reviewed.
For each review, background information, data collection and analysis are required to
shed light on issues and form a basis for decision-making. The Council needs to
work proactively to identify information gaps and ensure that appropriate baseline
data is collected and available when required. The objective is to provide Council
with easily available, quality data in advance of service delivery, infrastructure
planning and policy review processes. Data would comprise of a mix of scientific and
technical information, demographic and economic data in a format based on
Landscape Units and the Sustainability Framework, such that data can be presented
graphically and in a consistent format.
Theme 1 provides a program for community consultation and dialogue. Following on
from that, it is proposed to enhance the role of the Planning Developer Reference
Group as a means of internal Council consultation and dialogue. The Planning
Developer Reference Group is a multidisciplinary group of Council staff who work
cooperatively to address complex development and planning issues. The Strategy
proposes this group be given resources to initiate research and to compile and
present data, including data on natural systems or related to sustainability, in
advance of decision making processes. An activity of the PDRG is to initiate
dialogue with developers and consultants to regarding local development proposals
or general discussions planning or other policy in the Shire.
Action 9.3
Continue to resource the cross-departmental Planning Developer Reference
Group to facilitate cross-council communication and decision making and plan
and co-ordinate research and data collection, including liaison with developers
and consultants.
Action 9.4
Develop a methodology for the PDRG to work that considers the Sustainability
Framework and Integrated Impact Assessment Tool (See page 52). Build
data about the Shire as a basis for planning, e.g. native vegetation mapping,
landscape character, transport movement data, to establish base data for any
new Council decision making.
Program 9.3 Sustainability in statutory and strategic planning
Statutory and strategic planning covers a range of programs and policies which are
of too broad a scope to address within this Strategy. All initiatives are guided by
Council’s Vision 2025, Council Plan and Natural Environment Strategy directions.
These directions attempt to ensure that work on complex issues results in
sustainable outcomes. A list of future strategic work that has been identified for
completion within the next review period is available from the Planning Department.
Improved environmental outcomes are the focus of much of this work.
Council also takes part in a range of regional and State planning projects, including
the Peri-urban Group of Councils, which was established to facilitate co-operative
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planning to address many of the common issues confronted in the peri-urban region
on the fringe of metropolitan Melbourne.
Action 9.5
Ensure integrated public transport and pedestrian networks are planned in
new housing, commercial and industrial developments.
Action 9.6
Complete native vegetation mapping of the Shire and develop appropriate
planning scheme overlays to protect native vegetation.
Action 9.7
Where appropriate, review current planning scheme zones and overlays to
address inconsistencies with environmental and natural resource assets.
Develop and implement a program to correct any inconsistencies identified.
Action 9.8
Develop sustainability standards for new commercial and industrial
developments in the Shire as part of Urban Design Frameworks or Industrial
Design and Development Guidelines currently being developed by Council.
Action 9.9
Provide a Sustainability Assessment and Advice Tool for new home builders
and developers to provide detailed information on how to maximise positive
environmental outcomes from new developments31. Employ a sustainability
officer to work with residents and developers.
Action 9.10
Formalise a Macedon Ranges Shire Settlement Strategy. A settlement
strategy based on an understanding of social, economic, environmental assets
and constraints would show opportunities for growth without damage or loss of
key values. This strategy should incorporate research to help define
sustainable urban forms for rural communities.
Action 9.11
Incorporate existing land capability studies and salinity mapping into the
Planning Scheme, as a primary factor in considering proposals for land use
change and development.
Action 9.12
Advocate for the completion of a land capability study for the former Shire of
Gisborne (others have been completed) by the State Government.
Action 9.13
Complete a Landscape Character assessment of the Shire to be included in
the Landscape Units framework.
31
For example, see Moreland City Council’s ‘Steps’ initiative.
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Appendix 1. Legislation and Policies
International law and the environment
Environmental issues are of such great importance that there is a wide range of
international documents with legal status. They include:







the World Heritage Convention
the World Charter for Nature
the Brundtland Report including the concept of Ecologically Sustainable
Development
the Rio Declaration including the Biodiversity Convention and Agenda 21; and
specific agreements such as the Ramsar Convention for the protection of
habitats for migratory bird species.
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Reports
The Kyoto Protocol
Many of these policies are immediately relevant to Macedon Ranges Shire. As
examples, the concept of ecologically sustainable development as developed in the
Brundtland Report is the basis of this Strategy and is fundamental to the Planning
Scheme. The Biodiversity Convention forms part of the basis of national and state
laws on the protection of biodiversity and thereby is the basis of the Council’s policy
on biodiversity. The protection of migratory birds is also an issue for our Shire.
Commonwealth law

Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act. - The
Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Clth) (EPBC
Act) is the main Commonwealth environmental law. The Federal Minister for
Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts is responsible for administering the
Act.
The EPBC Act regulates the assessment and approval of:
o activities that have a ‘significant impact on matters of national
environmental significance’
o activities by Commonwealth government agencies anywhere in the
world; and
o activities by any person on Commonwealth land.
The Act protects biodiversity by creating and regulating protected areas, such
as World Heritage sites and National Parks. It also lists and manages
threatened species and ecosystems. The EPBC Act is triggered by when a
proposed activity will have a significant impact on a ‘matter of national
environmental significance’. These are currently defined as:
o World Heritage properties
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o
o
o
o
o
Ramsar wetlands
nationally listed threatened species and ecological communities
listed migratory species
activities relating to nuclear energy, including uranium mining; and
the Commonwealth marine environment.
The Commonwealth Government can add more matters to the above list.
(Environment Defenders Office Victoria, EPBC Act Fact Sheet.)
More information can be obtained by accessing the Department of
Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts website.

Australian Heritage Council Act. - The Australian Heritage Council Act 2003
deals with heritage issues of national importance. The Act establishes the
National Heritage Council to promote the identification, assessment,
conservation and monitoring of heritage. The national estate consists of
places ‘…being components of the natural environment of Australia or the
cultural environment of Australia, that have aesthetic, historic, scientific or
social significance or other special value for future generations as well as for
the present community’.
Places identified as part of The National Estate are listed in the Register of the
National Estate. Macedon Ranges Shire currently has 77 entries in the
register. The majority of these are historic buildings and gardens that are
beyond the scope of the Natural Environment Strategy. Two relevant sites
that are important areas for biodiversity and aesthetic values are also listed.
These are Hanging Rock at Newham and the Woodend Racecourse and
Recreation Reserve. Further details about the Register of the National Estate
can be found at the Australian Heritage Council website.
Many of the Council’s requirements under this Act are largely dealt with in the
Macedon Ranges Shire Cultural Heritage and Landscape Study and through
the Planning Scheme. In some instances they will need to be considered in
the implementation of the Natural Environment Strategy.

The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Heritage Protection
Act 1984. - This Act aims to ensure the ‘preservation and protection from
injury and desecration of areas and objects …that are of particular significance
to Aboriginals in accordance with Aboriginal traditions’. There are many sites
of Aboriginal significance in the Macedon Ranges Shire that are protected
under this Act. The Federal Minister for Aboriginal Affairs is responsible for
this Act.
The Shire has undertaken the Macedon Ranges Shire Pre-contact Pilot Study,
Victoria (du Cros 1996) to help fulfil its requirements under the Act. The Study
investigated 2,000 sites and places in the Shire. This study’s key objective
was to investigate whether important relationships and physical links existed
between Aboriginal places and significant post-contact cultural landscapes.
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Recommendations are made about the management of specific sites and
cultural materials. It is a reference document to the Planning Scheme.

National Environment Protection Council Act 1994. - This Act is to ensure
that, by means of the establishment and operation of the National
Environment Protection Council that people enjoy the benefit of equivalent
protection from air, water or soil pollution and from noise, wherever they live in
Australia; and that decisions of the business community are not distorted, and
markets are not fragmented, by variations between participating jurisdictions in
relation to the adoption or implementation of major environment protection
measures.
State legislation
There are a large number of pieces of Victorian legislation that relate to the
environment. Some of the most relevant Acts of Parliament are those described
below.

The Planning and Environment Act 1987 - This Act is the main piece of
legislation for Victoria’s Planning Law. It is administered by the Department of
Planning and Community Development. It includes the Victorian Planning
Provisions (VPPs) for the development of Municipal Planning Schemes. The
VPPs set out the requirements of all Victorian Planning Schemes. They allow
for different land uses and requirements for different municipalities.

The Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994 (CaLPAct) - This Act deals
with the management of Victoria’s land and water resources at the catchment
level. It includes the control of noxious weeds and pest animals. The CaLP
Act establishes the Catchment Management Authorities that administer the
Act.

The Environment Protection Act 1970 - This Act deals with land, air and
water pollution and allows for the development of the State Environment
Protection Policies. These set out the beneficial uses of the environment,
indicators to measure environmental quality and the program, if any, by which
environmental quality objectives are to be obtained. The EP Act establishes
the Environment Protection Authority and Environment Protection Board that
administers the Act.

The Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 - This Act establishes a
regulatory structure and procedures for the conservation and management of
Victoria’s native flora and fauna, and the management of potentially
threatening processes. Listed under the Act are threatened species,
potentially threatening processes and excluded species (due to providing a
serious threat to human safety). The Department of Sustainability and
Environment administer this Act under the direction of the Minister for
Environment and Conservation.
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
The Wildlife Act 1995 - The purposes of the Wildlife Act are to establish
procedures in order to promote the protection, conservation and sustainable
use of wildlife. It also regulates how people can deal with and interact with
wildlife. The Department of Sustainability and Environment administer this
Act.

The Heritage Act 1995 - This Act provides for the protection and conservation
of places and objects of cultural heritage significance and establishes the
Heritage Council and the Victorian Heritage Register. Cultural heritage is
defined as places and objects of aesthetic, archaeological conservation,
scientific or social significance. The Minister for Planning is responsible for
the Act. The Council’s requirements under this Act are largely dealt with in the
Macedon Ranges Cultural Heritage and Landscape Study and through the
Planning Scheme. In some instances they will need to be considered in the
implementation of the Natural Environment Strategy.

The Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 - This Act provides for the protection of
Aboriginal cultural heritage in Victoria in ways that are based on respect for
Aboriginal knowledge and cultural and traditional practices; recognise
Aboriginal people as the primary guardians, keepers and knowledge holders
of Aboriginal cultural heritage and accord appropriate status to Aboriginal
people with traditional or familial links with Aboriginal cultural heritage. The Act
is administered by Aboriginal Affairs Victoria.

The Heritage Rivers Act 1992 - This Act provides for the protection of public
land in particular parts of rivers and river catchment areas in Victoria that have
significant nature conservation, recreation, scenic or cultural heritage
attributes. The Department of Sustainability and Environment administer the
Act.
Council documents and policies

2025 Vision for Macedon Ranges - This document provides a vision of the
community’s aspirations for the Shire in the year 2025. The document aims to
identify the fundamental issues and values of the Shire. It also aims to identify
the stance that the community and the Council must take to preserve the
values of the Shire to the year 2025 and beyond. It will help to ensure that
environmental issues are considered in the Council’s strategic planning now
and in the future.

Council Plan 2006-2010 - The Council Plan set out how Council’s resources
will be utilised and how we can achieve the community’s vision for the Shire.
Within the Macedon Ranges Shire Council Plan there are goals, strategies
and measurable outcomes to allow the community to assess the performance
of Council. The Plan also documents, through the Strategic Resources Plan,
the human, physical and financial resources required to achieve the goals,
strategies and outcomes.
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Specifically, the Council Plan outlines many of the major activities that the
Macedon Ranges Shire Council will undertake to ensure that the work and
priorities set by Council align with the Macedon Ranges 2025 Vision
Statement.

The Planning Scheme - The Planning Scheme is the mechanism by which
land use and development is determined in the Shire. The Natural
Environment Strategy is to be a reference document under the Planning
Scheme that must be taken into account when considering issues relating to
the natural environment.

Roadside Management Plan (RMP) - The Roadside Management Plan is
currently in draft form. It has many environmental guidelines that apply the
goals set out in the Natural Environment Strategy to roadside situations. The
RMP will include Action Plans that will be developed in conjunction with the
Natural Environment Strategy Action Plans. The Action Plans will be in a user
friendly format that can be implemented by landowners and contractors.
The RMP is an advisory not a regulatory document, but may influence
changes to environmental overlays in the Planning Scheme, and will be
included as a reference document in contract specifications for road
construction and maintenance. It will also be used as a reference document
for service authorities and they will be encouraged to include it as a reference
in their own specifications and service agreements and thereby improve the
environmental values.

Municipal Fire Prevention Strategy Plan - Council adopted this plan in
2000, with the intention to protect life, property, community assets and flora
and fauna from fire. Ecologically based fire management regimes can have
direct environmental benefits to fire adapted and dependent ecosystems.
Conversely, inappropriate fire prevention or too frequent burns can pose a
threat to natural ecosystems. These issues will have to be considered in the
implementation of the Municipal Fire Prevention Strategy Plan. Biodiversity
issues will be carefully considered in the review of this plan in 2009.

Municipal Emergency Management Plan - This plan helps Council to
prepare for, respond to and help the community to recover from emergencies.
The Recovery Committee includes an Environment Recovery subcommittee
whose purpose is to help ensure the environment is protected in the recovery
phase following an emergency.

Waste Management Strategy 2007 - This strategy provides for the kerbside
and garbage and recycling service to be extended to all residential properties
in 2011 and for the investigation of a kerbside green waste service to divert
green waste from landfill. These actions will increase the volume of material
diverted from landfill.
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
Urban Stormwater Management Plan 2004 - This document has been
developed in accordance with ‘Best Practice Environmental Management
Guidelines for Urban Stormwater’. The objective of the plan is to improve the
environmental management of urban stormwater and protect the
environmental values and beneficial uses of receiving waters.
Section 56 of the Planning Scheme requires that all new subdivisions Include
water sensitive urban design features to manage run-off in streets and public
open space. Recently constructed subdivisions include water sensitive urban
design elements. The Plan identifies the values and threats for each
catchment in the Shire and sets out management strategies to address the
risks.

Health & Wellbeing Plan 2008 – 2011 - The Health and Wellbeing Plan is
designed to:
o enhance local responsibility and accountability for performance of
municipal public health functions;
o encourage further co-operative arrangements between councils and
local agencies and service providers in the achievement of public
health objectives;
o provide a means by which public health planning and service delivery
may be better co-ordinated; and
o assist the development and adoption of innovative local government
programs which respond to traditional or new threats to public health.
All parts of Council have an impact on public health including community
services, engineers, town planners, environmental health officers, maternal
and child health nurses and recreation officers. The Plan assists in providing
an integrated and collaborative planning framework for community health and
wellbeing which takes into account the plans and foci of other local, nonCouncil health providers as well as in areas where Macedon Ranges Shire
Council has mandatory responsibilities under the Health Act (1958). These
include provision of organised programs to monitor, maintain and improve the
physical environment, waste management, community health, food safety,
immunisation rates, infectious disease control and environmental health
promotion.

Open Space Strategy - An Open Space Strategy was prepared in September
1999. The strategy recognises that open space makes an important
contribution to the Shire. It protects natural heritage and scenic values in the
Shire.
One of the key goals of the strategy is to ‘…protect natural values, improve
waterways and undertake revegetation’. This is to be achieved by:
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o Undertaking flora and fauna surveys in open space and bushland
areas where significant species maybe at risk from recreation
(including equestrian)use, or other threats in conjunction with the
Department of Sustainability and Environment and Parks Victoria.
o Developing systematic long-term weed control and associated
revegetation programs for Shire open space. Highest priority will be
given to waterways in the main towns and natural areas at risk.
o Working with the community to improve in-stream habitats and
water quality.
o Working with Parks Victoria, the Department of Sustainability and
Environment, Department of Primary Industries, Landcare and
community groups to encourage landowners to undertake weed
control along roadsides and streams. Highest priority will be given
to invasive weeds including gorse, blackberry, cape broom, and
English broom.
o Supporting other relevant environmental initiatives in the Shire’s
Environmental Strategy including protection of Black Gums,
stormwater treatment and development of wildlife corridors.
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Appendix 2. Sustainability Framework Matrix
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Appendix 3. Significant Natural Areas Managed
by Council
Grasslands: Woodend Racecourse Reserve
Native grasslands are one of the most depleted and endangered vegetation types in
Australia and very little is protected in conservation reserves. Grasslands and grassy
woodlands once covered around a third of Victoria but now more than 99.5% of these
vegetation types have been lost. Grasslands were the obvious places for settlers to
set up agricultural enterprises, and grazing and cropping quickly replaced our
indigenous grasslands with introduced species.
The Woodend Racecourse Reserve is the only intact remnant of grassland that once
dominated the Plains to the north and south of Woodend. It has extremely high
biodiversity values. The grassland covers an area of around 9 hectares and contains
70 species of indigenous plants. The flora is dominated by Kangaroo Grass
(Themeda triandra) and various Wallaby Grasses (Austrodanthonia spp.). Amongst
the grasses many small wildflowers grow, including at least 8 rare species. Of these,
two species are particularly rare and have not otherwise been recorded west of
Melbourne. They are the Field Daisy (Brachycome decipiens) and Narrow-leaf
Holland Daisy (Vittadinia muelleri).
The Woodend Racecourse Reserve is now protected and managed by the Council. A
management plan was developed in 2000. The area has been fenced to protect it
from trail bikes, bicycles and horses. Weed invasion is also an ongoing threat to the
integrity of the grassland. A weed control program is occurring that includes the
Woodend Pony Club ensuring that no hay containing potential weed seeds enters the
adjoining equestrian area.
A controlled burn program has also been instigated. Grasslands need to be burnt
every 2 to 5 years to maintain their biodiversity, as when they are left unburnt for long
periods the grass sward becomes so thick that other species are out-competed.
Wetlands: Gisborne Racecourse Wetlands Reserve
The Gisborne Racecourse Wetlands Reserve, situated on the Calder Highway near
Gisborne, is a carpet of wildflowers in spring and early summer. It contains a 30 ha
wetland of national conservation significance as it is the only existing intact example of
Plains Sedgy Wetland. It is therefore an area of the highest biodiversity value. It is
thought that this vegetation type was once found in other wetter sites of the Victorian
Volcanic Plain. The reserve is Crown Land, managed by Council as Committee of
Management for the sections of the reserve which is not occupied by the Gisborne
Vintage Machinery Society Inc. The reserve is split into two but the Calder Freeway.
A study of the marshland in 1997 confirmed that Gisborne Racecourse Wetlands
contains a unique vegetation type. It is dominated by Fine Twig Sedge (Baumea
arthrophylla) which is rare in the Volcanic Plain and very rarely found as a dominant
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species. Three species identified were found to be of national significance, two
species of state significance and one species of regional significance. Four species
appeared to be undescribed, with at least one being confirmed as a new species and
therefore of the highest conservation status.
The fauna survey also showed that the marshland has very high conservation values.
It provides a habitat for a wide range of waterbirds and amphibians. Amongst these is
Latham’s Snipe, a migratory bird that is protected under the Japan-Australia Migratory
Birds Agreement. A population of Growling Grass Frogs, another rare species, was
also recorded on the site.
The Gisborne Racecourse Wetlands are under considerable threat due to issues such
as weed invasion, adjacent land use change, disturbance, predators, fire and changes
in the hydrological regime. At present there is no management plan for this site.
Woodlands: Bald Hill Reserve
The majority of woodlands and forests in Victoria have been logged at some time and
many have also been grazed. It is often argued that a site has minimal biodiversity
values because the vegetation on a site is regrowth or the site has been substantially
disturbed. The story of the Bald Hill Reserve demonstrates that despite significant
disturbance, many biodiversity values are often retained. Appropriate management
should also result in improved biodiversity over time.
Bald Hill Reserve is an area of around 100 hectares three kilometres east of Kyneton.
The site is dominated by a granite outcrop to the northeast of the site and an ancient
volcano to the northwest. Despite the presence of the old volcano, most of the soil
has not resulted from the volcano’s eruptions as the lava flowed away from the site.
The history of Bald Hill is one of often intense use. From 1909 to 1989 the area was
managed by the Department of Defence as a rifle range. During this period the site
was also leased to a grazier who ‘improved’ the grassland with fertiliser and
introduced grass species. The site was also logged from 1930 to the 1960s.
Despite this high level of disturbance, three different vegetation communities remain
on the site. They are:

a Narrow-leaved Peppermint (Eucalyptus radiata) Grassy Forest on the higher,
outwashed slopes of the hills. This vegetation type contains a wide variety of
indigenous grasses and a high diversity of wildflowers including a previously
undescribed form of Vanilla Lily (Arthropodium sp.) and many species of
ground orchids

a Manna Gum (E. viminalis) Grassy Woodland on the basalt soils with a rich
variety of indigenous grasses and a very restricted species, Matted Flax Lilly
(Dianella amoena) in the understorey; and

a Manna Gum (E. viminalis)/Narrow-leaved Peppermint (E. radiata) Grassy
Woodland on the granite soils. The understorey contains a species of State
significance, the Clover Glycene (Glycene latrobeana).
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The fauna of Bald Hill is also of importance, and includes species such as the Tuan.
The management issues facing Bald Hill Reserve are complex. It is a popular
recreation area but unfortunately, these activities are causing disturbance in some of
the most biodiverse areas of the reserve.
Hanging Rock
Hanging Rock is an 88 hectare Crown Land Reserve managed by the Macedon
Ranges Shire Council. It is the major tourist attraction in the Shire and one of the top
20 tourist attractions in Victoria, with more that 100,000 visitors per year. The major
management task for the site is to balance biodiversity conservation and the pressure
exerted by a large number of tourists. A management plan has been developed to
help achieve this objective (Hanging Rock Recreation Reserve Management Plan
1993).
The attraction of Hanging Rock comes from its unusual geological formation. The 100
metre high rock was formed by a volcanic eruption around 6 million years ago. An
unusual form of lava was produced, silica-rich soda trachyte. Hanging Rock is the
only recorded site in Australia of this type of rock. A dome formed around the point of
eruption and, as it cooled, produced a steep-sided, fractured rock. Over time,
weathering has accentuated the dramatic shape of Hanging Rock.
The biodiversity values of Hanging Rock result from its position between the Cobaw
and Macedon Range Forests and its habitat diversity. It provides an important node of
habitat between the two forests that will be further accentuated through the
implementation of the Campaspe – Maribyrnong Headwaters Biolink Project.
The site contains four separate vegetation communities:

a Snow Gum (E. pauciflora) and Candlebark (E. rubida) woodland at the top of
the rock

a Candlebark (E. rubida) and Narrow-leaved Peppermint (E. radiata) woodland
on the mid-slope a Candlebark (E. rubida), Narrow-leaved Peppermint (E.
radiata), Swamp Gum (E ovata), Messmate (E. obliqua) and Manna Gum (E.
viminalis) Woodland at the bottom of the rock; and

an area of high quality grassland dominated by Kangaroo Grass (Themeda
triandra) and Wallaby Grasses (Austrodanthonia spp.).
The fauna species that inhabit the site include Bats, Koalas, Greater Gliders, Sugar
Gliders, Black Wallabies and a vast variety of birdlife.
Major work has been undertaken by the Council, the Friends of Hanging Rock and
local Landcare groups to minimise the impact that the high number of visitors have on
the site. Infrastructure development such as improved walking tracks, a sewage
treatment plant and erosion control work have helped to reduce environmental
damage. In 1993, a 22 hectare area of adjoining farmland was purchased and
developed as a picnic and recreational area. The aim was to help reduce the
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concentration of visitor numbers on the natural areas of the Reserve and thereby help
reduce the impact on the biodiversity of the site.
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Glossary of Terms
Bio-
Regarding life or living organisms.
Biodiversity
The variety of all life forms – the different plants, animals
and micro-organisms, the genes they contain, and the
ecosystems of which they form a part. It is not a fixed
entity, but constantly changing; it is increased by genetic
change and by evolutionary processes and reduced by
extinction and habitat degradation (as defined in the
National Strategy on Biodiversity).
Biolink
A network of wildlife corridors.
Bioregion
Bio-geographic region based on patterns of ecological
characteristics in the landscape (soils, ecological
communities and the flora and fauna that is indigenous to
them). There are 22 bioregions in Victoria. Macedon
Ranges contains two; Central Victorian Uplands and
Victorian Volcanic Plain.
Catchment
The area of land that drains into a defined waterway.
Climate Change
The alteration of the earth’s climate due to human
activities. See Greenhouse Effect.
Eco-
Relating to Ecology.
Ecologically Sustainable
Development
Development that improves the total quality of life,
both now and in the future, in a way that maintains the
ecological processes on which life depends (National
Strategy for Ecologically Sustainable Development).
Ecology
The study of relationships between living organisms and
their environment.
Ecological Sustainability
Meeting our needs today, while conserving our ecosystems
for the benefit of future generations.
Ecosystem
The inter-dependent system of species in the living world
including the interactions within and between species and
the non-living world.
Ecotourism
Tourism based on visiting natural areas to enjoy their
environmental values.
Eutrophication
The process that occurs when a waterbody is subjected to
high levels of nutrients. The nutrients cause excessive
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plant and micro-organism growth and as they decay, the
waterbody is depleted of oxygen. This process kills all
organisms in the waterway that require dissolved oxygen to
survive.
Genetically Modified
Organisms
An organism that has undergone alterations in its
genetic material through the process of genetic
engineering.
Greenhouse effect
The process of greenhouse gases trapping solar energy in
the earth’s atmosphere causing warming. This is a
naturally occurring process but it has been accelerated by
human activity. Increases in the concentrations of
greenhouse gases, mainly caused by burning fossil fuels,
has increased the amount of solar energy being converted
to heat, resulting in a rise in atmospheric temperature.
Indigenous flora
and fauna
The original species occurring in an area. Many
plant and animal species are indigenous to one particular
niche in a vegetation type.
Overlay
Planning provisions in addition to the Zone provisions,
which affect subdivisions, buildings and works. Overlays
ensure that important aspects of the land are recognised
(such as areas of significant vegetation or special heritage
significance). Overlays indicate the type of development
and/or protection which may be appropriate in the area.
An area may have no overlays, or it may have several
overlays. Overlays are represented on maps and the
written requirements are set out in an ordinance in the
Planning Scheme.
Ozone Depletion
The breakdown of ozone molecules in the atmosphere,
allowing more ultraviolet light through to the earth’s
surface. Increased ultraviolet light is linked with skin
cancer, retina damage and premature aging. Ozone
depleting substances include CFCs, some refrigerants and
vehicle emissions.
Precautionary Principle Wherever there are threats of serious or irreversible
environmental damage, lack of certainty should neither be
used as a reason for allowing potentially damaging actions,
nor for postponing measures to prevent damage.
Remnant Vegetation
The remaining areas of the original vegetation community.
Remnants may be fragmented or degraded and still retain
significant environmental values.
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Revegetation
Re-establishing vegetation in areas that have previously
been cleared. The aim is to achieve a self perpetuating
vegetation cover of indigenous vegetation.
Riparian
Land beside a waterway
Wildlife Corridor
Vegetated links between habitats that permit populations of
flora and fauna to remain connected to populations
elsewhere. This permits the flow of genes between
populations and thereby reduces inbreeding which can
jeopardise the long term survival of a population.
Zone
A planning provision that controls land use and
development on particular areas of land (such as
residential, industrial or rural). Each separate holding of
land has one zone only. Zones are represented on maps
and the written requirements of each zone are set out in an
ordinance in the Planning Scheme.
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List of Tables
Table 1.
The Nine Key Themes p.40
Table 2.
Origins of Victoria’s greenhouse gas emissions p.83
Table 3.
Proposed Landscape Units within the Macedon Ranges Shire p.106
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List of Figures
Figure 1.
Decision Making Fields p.14
Figure 2.
Council’s Strategic Planning Process p.21
Figure 3.
Topographic Map of the Macedon Ranges Shire p.27
Figure 4.
The Greenhouse Effect p80.
Figure 5.
Macedon Ranges Shire Draft Landscape Units p.106
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