QUARTERLY REPORT AGAINST ANNUAL PLAN 2005/06 FOR THE PERIOD ENDING DECEMBER 31ST, 2005 In accordance with Section 36B of the Local Government Act, 1993
Adopted at Representatives Meeting held 2nd March, 2006 1
CONTENTS: Category
Page No.
Tourism
3
Industry development
7
Transport and Infrastructure
9
Natural Resource Management
10
Education and Training
14
Community/Cultural Development
17
KEY TO STATUS OF PROJECTS (SEE PROJECT MATRIX)
Status On schedule or Ongoing
Symbol
Under review
Completed
2
TOURISM Introduction: Tourism data continues to identify a softening of visitor numbers to the Cradle Coast region, and this softening is reflected in tourism numbers to regional areas across Australia. Reasons for this downturn include: o An increase in Australians choosing to travel to international destinations for their holidays – this decision based on reduced travel costs and increased confidence regarding travellers safety. o A decrease in Australians taking holidays – many workers choosing job security is a greater priority then holidays. o A significant reduction in the length of holidays – many people taking shorter breaks and more of them in preference to the longer (four week) holiday. o Discounted airfares into major ports are not been matched by fares into regional ports. TITLE / STATUS
Regional Touring Route Strategy Implementation
DESCRIPTION
Following the completion of the Cradle Coast Touring Route Strategy in June 2003, an implementation strategy was developed focussing on tourism signage and infrastructure requirements, brand development, and regional marketing
PROGRESS AS AT DECEMBER 2005
The Touring Route Strategy remains a priority for the development of the Cradle Coast Tourism Industry Touring Route signage (stage two) is currently under review with new signage to be installed along the Touring Routes Brand work for each touring route will be completed after the Cradle Coast regional branding is completed
Regional Touring Route Strategy – Infrastructure
Identify roadside infrastructure requirements and upgrades to enhance Cradle Coast Touring Routes and oversee implementation of capital works program
Funding application submitted under the Sustainable Regions Program in partnership with the 9 Cradle Coast Councils and Parks and Wildlife Funding approved December, 2005 Implementation will occur between January and June 2006
Cradle Coast Experience Strategy
Creating unforgettable visitor experiences by linking the visitor experiences of the region to the Cradle Coast Touring Route Strategy and enhance the regions reputation as a quality visitor destination
Food and Wine Strategy – “Source to Sensation” “Source to Sensation” strategy has been completed with the support of the Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Funding now being sourced from the State and Commonwealth Governments to support the implementation of this strategy Regional Brand Strategy Rachel Piggott met with the Authority’s tourism staff to progress the regional brand strategy Further meetings to be held early 2006
3
TITLE / STATUS
DESCRIPTION
Cradle Coast Experience Strategy (Cont.)
PROGRESS AS AT DECEMBER 2005
Tarkine Development Following the presentation of the Tarkine discussion paper, the Board approved creation of a regional stakeholder forum on Tarkine issues Communication channels have been established between the Cradle Coast Authority and the Commonwealth Governments Forest Policy Section, Department of the Environment and Heritage with respect to the $1 million that the Government has allocated to Tarkine walking tracks in the Community Forestry Agreement Coast to Canyon Development A branding process has been initiated for the Coast to Canyon and this branding is now going through the interpretation process Wildlife Strategy Development of this strategy continues Mining Interpretation The first stakeholder committee meeting held in November 2005, creating considerable enthusiasm for the project Outline of project expected to be available early in 2006
Cradle Valley Sewerage Scheme Stage 2
Establishment of a centralised sewerage treatment system servicing existing and future tourism developments at Cradle Valley
Treatment plant site purchased Designs currently being finalised
Devonport Eastern Shore Project
Implementation of recommendations as identified in the Devonport Eastern Shore Urban Design Framework Report
Funding application submitted under the Sustainable Regions Program Funding approved and announced December 2005 State Government funding announced December 2005
Regional Tourism Marketing
The Authority develops and implements regional tourism marketing initiatives in partnership with other stakeholders
100,000 copies of the 2006 Cradle Coast Regional Touring Guide released and distributed Statewide to a variety of interstate outlets and on board the three Spirits of Tasmania Cradle Coast Authority Tourism Steering Committee agrees to participate in all Tourism Tasmania Road shows and consumer shows throughout 2006 The employment of a dedicated Cradle Coast Marketing Officer remains a priority
Regional Events
Partnership with Events Tasmania and the
Cradle Coast Calendar of Events produced and distributed state-wide, and on board
4
TITLE / STATUS
Strategy
Stanley (Circular Head) Tourism Precinct Study
Dismal Swamp Maze and Visitor Centre
DESCRIPTION
PROGRESS AS AT DECEMBER 2005
Federal Govt to fund a full-time Regional Events Coordinator as part of the Authority’s Tourism Development Team, providing advice and assistance to regional events organisers and more effective communication and coordination between State, regional and local events organisers
Spirit of Tasmania III
To establish Stanley as a “Must See” destination for all people holidaying in Tasmania increasing visitor stay and spend in all centres along touring routes connecting to Stanley
• • • • •
(For the purpose of this study “Stanley” refers to the entire Circular Head Municipality)
•
As part of its commitment to providing quality forestry based tourism experiences throughout Tasmania, Forestry Tasmania will develop the Dismal Swamp Maze and Visitor Centre to explore and interpret the renowned Tasmanian Blackwood through an interactive experience of this unique sinkhole and natural forest environment
Ben Bovill appointed as Regional Events Officer
Draft 1 report completed Market Research completed and interpreted Brand development underway Marketing Plan under development Experience development opportunity under review Wildlife Coastal Walks Food and produce The Tarkine has been identified as priority opportunity
Dismal Swamp continues to operate at levels that are considered unsatisfactory to Forestry Tasmania Forestry Tasmania is to launch a new Dismal Swamp marketing strategy
“Wonders of Wynyard” Exhibition Centre
Construction of the “Wonders of Wynyard” Exhibition Centre to create a significant tourism experience in Wynyard
Wonders of Wynyard Exhibition Centre opened in December 2005, incorporating Council’s Visitor Information Centre
Cradle Coast Tourism Strategic Plan
Development of a long term strategic plan for tourism in the Cradle Coast region
Draft Strategic Plan finalised and all planning is now based on meeting the direction as set by this strategic plan
5
TITLE / STATUS
West Coast Strategic Development Plan
Cradle Tourism Development Plan
Tasmanian Visitor Information Network
Arts @ Work Officer
DESCRIPTION
Preparation of a Strategic Development Plan for the West Coast Municipality and in particular Strahan with input from key stakeholders such as Council, DPIWE, Ports, DIER, Cradle Coast Authority and Tourism industry Improve the coordination of tourism planning and development opportunities at Cradle Valley Cradle Valley Development Plan completed and Cradle Steering Committee appointed to drive implementation, priority projects March 2003 A communication network of all Cradle Coast Visitor Centres established to enhance the professional delivery of information throughout the region and provide for greater communication between centres Extend the half time regional Arts@Work position to a full time position, embracing and enhancing all sectors of the arts and cultural industry sectors throughout the Cradle Coast region and linkages to the region’s tourism industry
PROGRESS AS AT DECEMBER 2005
Funding under the Sustainable Regions Program announced December 2005
Continuing to represent the Region’s interests, and support Kentish Council, as a member of the Cradle Valley Steering Committee
Facilitated negotiations that supported the reopening of the Strahan Visitor Centre, to be known as the “West Coast Visitor Information Centre and Booking Office”
Positive outcomes of this position are evident throughout the Cradle Coast region New Arts Residency programs created on King Island, as well as Waratah and Cradle Mountain Local Artists involved in a number of personal and business development programs Interpretation of Sheffield Mural Experience completed Creation of public arts workspace in Sheffield Expanded regional participation on Tasmania’s Living Artists Week Arts used as a tool to promote the Cradle Coast region on board Spirit of Tasmania III Funding received for a Community Centred Model for Cultural Tourism under the Federal Government’s Australia Council’s Community and Cultural Development Presentation and Promotion program
For further information, please contact the Regional Tourism Development Manager, Ian Waller on 6431 6285 6
INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT TITLE / STATUS
Food Value Adding Grants Program
Engineering Industry Development Program
Centre for Food Innovation Systems
DESCRIPTION
PROGRESS AS AT DECEMBER 2005
$1 million grants program under the Australian Government’s Sustainable Regions program to assist regional food businesses to invest in further value-adding of regional produce
Sustainable Regions Food Value Adding Grants Program announced in December 2004
Grants program under the Australian Government’s Sustainable Regions program to assist regional engineering firms respond to current challenges and opportunities associated with major projects, skills shortages and changing market requirements
Sustainable Regions Engineering Industry Development Program announced in May 2005
Establishment of a Cradle Coast Centre for Food Innovations Systems at the Cradle Coast Campus, providing research and development, teaching and industry networks to support innovation in Food Value Chain Management and Natural Resource Management for primary production
Sustainable Regions funding of $1 320 000 announced March 2005 Recruitment of key positions underway Leading UK and mainland Australia researchers attending week long workshop September 2005 to establish national research network Initial research work will link to outcomes from State and Federal processes responding to Fair Dinkum Food Campaign
Further projects approved and announced: • Petuna Seafoods – “Innovative Product Development and Value Add of Seafood” • J & A Brandsema Pty Ltd – “Optical Tomato Grading Development Project” • Harvest Moon – “New Technology for Fresh Vegetable Processing” • Premium Fresh – “Carrot Season Extension Project”
Program has several applications currently under consideration by the Minister of Transport and Regional Services
7
TITLE / STATUS
Fair Dinkum Food Campaign
DESCRIPTION
Campaign to support the region’s agriculture sector through communitybased initiatives to • increase awareness of the food products produced and sold in this region • encourage producers, processors and retailers to adopt and promote place of origin labeling • help consumers make informed choices about buying local products
PROGRESS AS AT DECEMBER 2005
Authority has played a direct role in the Fair Dinkum Food Campaign including continuing to provide research, secretariat and policy support, to help the local vegetable industry develop and communicate its position to government and media
For further information, please contact the Executive Officer, Karen Hampton on 6431 6285
8
TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURE TITLE / STATUS
DESCRIPTION
PROGRESS AS AT DECEMBER 2005
Bass Highway (Sisters Hills) Upgrade
In April 2003, the Authority convened a working group comprising State, Authority, Council and community representatives to address priority structural and safety issues in the Sisters Hills section of the Bass Highway, between Boat Harbour and Rocky Cape. State and Federal funding of $30 million has now been committed to implement road improvements
Information relating to upgrade on display at Burnie City, Circular Head and Waratah-Wynyard Council offices
Regional Transport & Infrastructure Plan
Development of a regional framework to manage and develop the region’s transport system over a 20 year period
Regional Transport Advisory Group finalised content of Regional Transport and Infrastructure Plan
Regional Waste Management
Development of an integrated regional approach to waste management in the Cradle Coast region
Awaiting final approval from Minister
Attended briefing conducted by Department of Primary Industries Water and Environment on future of waste management in Tasmania Regional Waste Management Advisory Group continuing to meet bi-monthly, or as required, to monitor and respond to regional waste management issues
For further information, please contact the Executive Officer, Karen Hampton on 6431 6285
9
NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT TITLE / STATUS
Regional Natural Resource Management (NRM) Plan
DESCRIPTION
Support for the development of regional NRM plans and investment strategies in NW Tasmania • •
Implementation of Investment Proposal 1 (2005-2006)
Cradle Coast NRM Committee established as a sub-committee of Cradle Coast Authority in January 2003 Minister declared the Committee as a Regional Committee under the NRM Act in April 2003
Implementation of Investment Proposal (IP) and projects contained within the Proposal as approved by the Commonwealth Government
PROGRESS AS AT DECEMBER 2005
The Regional NRM Strategy was launched in October, 2005 NRM Committee held their Annual General Meeting in October, 2005 and presented the Annual Report for 2004-05 (available on website www.nrmtas.com.au (Cradle Coast region)
Service providers selected and contracted for IP activities and projects commenced Contracts under development for two Cradle Coast biodiversity projects to be finalised end of February 2006 Contracts for four statewide cross-regional activities being managed by other regions are still in development Details of projects and service providers are detailed on pages 12, 13
Investment Proposal II (2006-2008)
Development of second IP for Australian Government Natural Heritage Trust funding
Draft IP prepared to be submitted for Australian and State Government assessment January 2006 Re-drafting and final submission to be made March 6 2006
10
TITLE / STATUS
National Landcare Program Sustainable Industries Initiative
DESCRIPTION
Develop a funding application under the National Landcare Program Sustainable Industries Initiative to develop identified significant gaps and a lack of agricultural industry’s engagement, contribution and ownership relating to the sustainable management of the region’s natural resources through sustainable production systems, in addition to environmental protection and repair
PROGRESS AS AT DECEMBER 2005
Funding application submitted under the Sustainable Industries Initiative Program to the Department of Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry – advised application was not successful November 2005
For further information, please contact the Natural Resource Management Coordinator, David McCormack on 6431 6285
11
Implementation of Cradle Coast NRM Investment Proposal I (2005-2006)
Package Coastal Biodiversity * Comm.Capacity Comm.Capacity Comm.Capacity Comm.Capacity Comm.Capacity Comm.Capacity
Land *
Water
Coastal Land * Biodiversity Water
Project
Funding
Develop and/or implement management plans for nationally significant estuarine, coastal and marine areas (e.g. Lavinia Reserve, Robbins Passage and Boullanger Bay). Set vegetation condition benchmarks for Cradle Coast Region.
50,000 30,000
Tasmanian Land Conservancy DPIWE/GHD - Cross regional Project
250,000
Cradle Coast NRM
55,000
DPIWE - Cross Regional Project
150,000
Five Rivers Waterwatch
Develop a communication strategy that encourages community awareness of NRM issues and contribution to NRM activities. Develop and promote employment and training programs for local people to encourage participation in NRM (establish NRM 'champions'). Liaise with the Education Department to initiate more NRM programs in school curricula. Review adequacy of community support structures in NRM programs and ensure adequate resources are available to support community groups. Provide locally relevant multi-disciplinary technical and scientific support and advice on NRM and rehabilitation to stakeholders. Facilitate working partnerships amongst all stakeholders for more efficient and strategic delivery of on-ground actions. Establish benchmarks and targets for soil condition of land used for agriculture, forestry or in reserves. (NHT Priority Project: Funded 2004: Soil Condition Evaluation and Monitoring Statewide Project) Develop a Regional water quality and river health monitoring program that is consistent with the State Water Quality Monitoring Strategy, set water quality targets and monitor key sites. (NHT Priority Project: Funded 2004: A Water Monitoring Program and Rpeorting Framework for the cradle Coast Region) Map key habitat types and significant marine communities e.g. seagrass, Macrosystis beds, sponge beds in each bioregion by 2007 : (such that will assist with the determining of sites for Marine Protected Areas ) Facilitate adoption of integrated property planning, including game management planning. (NHT Priority Project: Funded 2004: Operational Whole Farm Planning) Develop the means to interpret Regional data for focusing the implementation of on-ground works (e.g. revegetation, habitat protection and roadside vegetation management). Benchmark condition of rivers (e.g. State of the Rivers Assessment, Rivercare).
130,000 Tasmanian Aquaculture Fisheries Institute 230,000
TBC - Cross Regional Project
50,000 95,000
TBC
Identify priority sites for the maintenance or improvement of riparian buffer strips to improve water quality.
Coastal Biodiversity
Proponent
Undertake prioritised on-ground works in coastal and estuarine systems, including foreshore stabilisation (such as through fencing/ barriers, erosion control and land management agreements). Support and assist conservation and restoration of habitat throughout Region through providing incentives, including habitats that form or enhance strategic biodiversity links (e.g. King Island).
12
TBC - Cross Regional Project 250,000
Parks & Wildlife
350,000
Greening Australia Tasmania
Biodiversity * Biodiversity
Water Land
Water Land Biodiversity Water Water Water
Biodiversity Water
Coastal Coastal
Land
Biodiversity
Support development and coordinate the implementation of threatened species recovery plans and protection measures (e.g. ferns and grasslands in Arthur–Pieman) within the Cradle Coast NRM Region, and engage all stakeholders for uniform implementation across all land tenures. Undertake surveys to identify population characteristics of giant freshwater lobster and Burnie burrowing crayfish. Promote adoption of, and compliance with accreditation schemes, best practice guidelines, standards and codes of practice (e.g. cropping, dairy effluent management, road and civil construction and forestry operations) in priority catchments. (NHT Priority Project: Funded 2004:Best practice Dairy Effluent Management in Tasmania). Facilitate adoption of best practice techniques for soil erosion control in agriculture and forestry (e.g. provision of implements and on-paddock assistance). Provide incentives for land managers to: fence streams and riparian zones; undertake riparian revegetation activities; protect remnant vegetation; and improve wetland management. (NHT Priority Project: Funded 2004: Bush and Streamside Restoration) Establish and implement incentive programs to encourage land managers and groups to control weeds, and monitor and document outcomes and review as necessary in hot spots. Develop and implement conservation plans/agreements (e.g. migratory birds) at priority sites in consultation with landowners.
100,000
TBC - Cross Regional Project
30,000
Five Rivers Waterwatch
230,000
Dairy Tas
80,000
Agronico
300,000
Greening Australia/Earth Tech
300,000
Cradle Coast NRM
60,000
TBC
200,000
Five Rivers Waterwatch Fishcare
Develop and promote employment and training programs for local people to encourage participation in NRM (establish NRM 'champions'). Liaise with the Education Department to initiate more NRM programs in school curricula. Review adequacy of community support structures in NRM programs and ensure adequate resources are available to support community groups. Contribute to the process of identifying flora and fauna of high conservation priority or of iconic status in the Region, (e.g. eastern barred bandicoot, platypus, eastern quoll and Tasmanian devil), to prevent them becoming threatened, and develop and implement appropriate Management Actions. Develop and implement Water Management Plans in priority catchments (e.g. Welcome, Montagu, Duck, Inglis, Rubicon and Leven). Develop water quality objectives and targets for all estuaries and marine waters in the Region, consistent with Protected Environmental Values (e.g. for sediments and nutrients, macro-invertebrates). Develop a program that will establish conservation value, detailed baseline information and indicators for water quality for priority estuaries, e.g. Duck, Montagu, Detention and Black Rivers. Undertake an investigation to characterise the extent and rate of change in land affected by salinity and salinity risk (King Island).(NHT Priority Project: Funded 2004: Salinity Hazard Assessment King Island). Develop framework for the benchmarking of key wetlands and implement a program of assessing their current condition, extent and threats. Benchmarking to focus on significant wetlands listed in the Tasmanian Wetlands Directory, the National Land & Water Audit.
13
Land & Social Research
30,000
TBC
160,000
Earth Tech
150,000
TAFI
150,000
TAFI
80,000
King Island NRM Group
10,000
GHD Pty Ltd - Cross Regional Project
EDUCATION AND TRAINING TITLE / STATUS
DESCRIPTION
PROGRESS AS AT DECEMBER 2005
Stronger Learning Pathways Project
Management of Stronger Learning Pathways component of Sustainable Regions Investment Plan through Reference Group comprising Authority, UTas, TAFE and Dept of Education and employment of Stronger Learning Pathways Project Officer
21 officers directly employed through Stronger Learning Pathways projects All projects achieving good results and forming valuable partnerships Reference Group meet monthly to monitor outcomes
Student Pathways Project
Build a model to assist young people plan and implement realistic education and employment futures
Student Pathways Officers working well in the school environment and engaging the wider community Activities and outcomes include: • Tours of Don College, TAFE Tasmania • Business and industry tours • Improved parent participation • Guest speakers (“Dealing with Difficult Situations”, “Coping Strategies”, Real Life”) • Assist with job applications, resume preparation and subject choices
Personal Futures Project (incorporating the Central Coast School – Business Alliance Project)
Develop a regional model for provision of support to young people to improve their participation and retention in education and training – Project has two components
Many activities undertaken include: • • • • •
Young Women’s career lunches Business breakfast Mock job interviews New business enterprise initiatives Work placements
14
TITLE / STATUS
DESCRIPTION
PROGRESS AS AT DECEMBER 2005
Learning Leading - Circular Head Education and Training Consultative Committee
Build a community culture of life long learning and commitment to learning pathways in the Circular Head district
All partners fully engaged in program delivery with many activities underway including: • Ongoing participating in Community Door project • Information evenings – University, TAFE • Circular Head Education Forum • Industry Information Forum with Saul Eslake • Essential Learnings Framework and Assessment Forum
Skilling the Cradle Coast Community for the Twenty First Century
Use the vehicle of science and technology to increase student participation in education, training and subsequent employment in the Cradle Coast Region
Science Education Officer working with 15 schools across the Region. Activities undertaken include: • Woolnorth Science Camp for Grade 9 students • Teacher professional development day in the Circular Head region • Inaugural state-wide Grade 10 Scientific Research award presentations • Inaugural Cradle Coast Science Fair • Smithton High School – Woolnorth Monitoring project
Australian Technical College
Proposal to establish an Australian Technical College for the benefit of students in the Cradle Coast region
Tasmanian Consortium invited to lead the establishment of an Australian Technical College in Northern Tasmania, in conjunction with the Northern Tasmania Consortium. Authority will provide regional input on industry/training needs to ensure links with existing institutions and facilities
Guaranteeing Futures Area Taskforce
Establishment of “Guaranteeing Futures Area Taskforce” to bring together stakeholders to work collaboratively to improve opportunities and pathways for young people moving from Year 10 to further education and training and employment as detailed in the State Government’s discussion paper
Negotiations continuing with Office of Post Compulsory Education and Training (OPCET) for the Authority to host the Guaranteeing Futures Area Taskforce
15
TITLE / STATUS
TIMEFRAME
PROGRESS AS AT DECEMBER 2005
Creating Attitudinal Change to Education and Training in the Cradle Coast region
Undertake research into attitudes to education and training in the Cradle Coast region and to develop a campaign or strategy to address issues raised in the research
Contract entered into with Red Jelly (marketing and PR consultants) to develop a message for use by regional education, business, local government and community groups and organisations to promote the value and importance of education to the region
Stronger Learning Pathways Evaluation Project
Consultants to undertake an external evaluation of the Stronger Learning Pathways initiative and all associated projects
Consultants Gordon Stone and Associates finalised Milestone Two Report of the Evaluation project October 2005 Further work to evaluate project continuing
For further information, please contact the Executive Officer, Karen Hampton on 6431 6285
16
COMMUNITY/CULTURAL DEVELOPMENT TITLE / STATUS
Regional Recreational Trails Strategy
DESCRIPTION
Development and promotion of a network of recreation and tourism-related trails throughout the region
PROGRESS AS AT DECEMBER 2005
All of Government Reference Group established with representation from Forestry Tasmania, Parks and Wildlife, Sport and Recreation Tasmania, Local Government and DPIWE Crown Lands Section to oversee the implementation of recommendations and strategies identified within the Cradle Coast Tracks Strategy Parks and Wildlife Services taking a leading role in the implementation of the strategy
For further information, please contact the Executive Officer, Karen Hampton on 6431 6285
17