Surf Coast Shire is currently undertaking a feasibility study for the development of walking opportunities within the Painkalac Valley including the existing Painkalac Nature Reserve. Included as part of the project scope is an investigation into the opportunity to create a revitalised area along the creek bank behind the Bottom Shops as a destination point from which people could set out on a walk, or walks, and to improve integration with the shopping precinct and open space.
A project working group has been formed as part of the project governance to help provide information and feedback into the project. AIDA is part of, and directly represented on, the Project Working Group. Prior to consulting with the broader community the feasibility of any proposal needs to be tested. In order to determine the feasibility of any of the proposals the shire must consult with other key external land management agencies such as Corangamite Catchment Management Authority and the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, which also have responsibilities over the area.
Once the feasibility of any proposal has been tested with the other agencies and authorities it is intended an opportunity will be provided for the broader community to review any proposal and to share their views.
Gary Johnson