NEWS DESK
Call for comment on The Pillars Stephen Taylor steve@mpnews.com.au A PLAN to oversee public access to The Pillars and identify ways to manage its hordes of visitors while protecting cultural and environmental values is up for public comment. Mornington Peninsula Shire acknowledges that the effect of visitors on the vulnerable site – and its impact on residents – is “still a major issue for council”. The mayor Cr Bryan Payne said given the increasing popularity of the site “we need to protect it from further impact”. “This plan aims to achieve this.” Input for the plan has so far come from DELWP, Parks Victoria, Bunurong Land Council, Victoria Police, VicRoads, Ambulance Victoria, Mt Martha CFA, Mt Martha LSC, Life Saving Victoria and the community. “From feedback we’ve received to date, measures implemented by council have reduced the impacts to local residents,” Cr Payne said. “We encourage the community to continue providing feedback on issues associated with … the site as well as providing comments on the draft plan.” Strategies to control visitors over summer included installing 40kph speed signs; warning signs; parking restrictions and No Stopping signs from November-April and alcohol bans.
Boardwalk on backburner NO decision has been made by Mornington Peninsula Shire Council on building a boardwalk to link The Pillars with beach access points, and reducing the number of people walking along the Esplanade. Property and strategy manager Yasmin Woods said last week: “At its meeting on 22 May council decided: That it is noted the draft long term management plan makes it clear that council has not, at this stage, considered or made decisions in relation to the boardwalk.” She said actions that have been taken are listed at mornpen.vic.gov.au/thepillars. Bollards were installed along the Esplanade to prevent parking and create room for pedestrians and traffic counts and parking surveys were held at peak times in surrounding streets to gauge traffic impacts. Parking patrols were held three times a day, seven days a week in peak periods and litter patrols increased. Following the public exhibition the feedback will be reviewed and, possibly, incorporated in the plan. Community comment is open until 15 July. Residents can contribute online at mornpen.vic. gov.au/haveyoursay Surveys are also available in hard copy at the shire’s offices in Rosebud, Mornington, Hastings and Somerville. Post to: Jeska Dee, The Pillars Mount Martha Long Term Management Plan, Mornington Peninsula Shire, Private Bag 1000, Rosebud, Victoria, 3939.
Cultural experience: An Aboriginal dancer celebrates the year’s achievements at Rosebud Memorial Hall. Picture: Supplied
Reconciliation celebration looks to future MEMBERS of the Mornington Peninsula’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community celebrated National Reconciliation Week at the Rosebud Memorial Hall, Tuesday 22 May. The Warringinee Group presented on what has been achieved in the community over the past year and what its members are working towards this year. The group supports cultural diversity and promotes understanding of the issues facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. The mayor Cr Bryan Payne said it was “fantastic” to hear from the group about its successes and plans. “We are committed to continuing our active engagement, consultation and partnerships with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents and business
groups – especially as we work on the development of the new Reconciliation Action Plan 2018-2022.” Inter Council Aboriginal Consultative Committee representative Cr Sam Hearn said it was “wonderful hearing about how the Warringinee Group is working hard on improving health literacy, cultural safety and family engagement”. Deborah Mellett, Aboriginal health coordinator – Aboriginal Early Years, said the event was an opportunity to celebrate achievements. “It has been a great experience engaging with the wider community in our Reconciliation Action Plan community consultations.” Residents can comment on the new Reconciliation Action Plan until 5pm, Sunday 10 June. Visit mornpen.vic.gov.au/haveyoursay
Eyewear As Individual As You Are
Eyewear As Individual As You Are • Professional Care • Top Quality Eyewear
• Prompt, Effiicient Service •Latest Fashion Frame Brands
Now stocking Paul Taylor Eyewear
MainStreet EyeCare MainStreet Eyecare
57 Main Street, Mornington 3235 57 Main Street, Mornington5975 5975 3235 Mornington News 5 June 2018
PAGE 5