Over the next few years we will be considering the ways many elements of the Nature Parks are enhanced and presented. We will also be undertaking extensive work to identify the best possible ways to manage the unique natural and cultural assets in our care.
In parallel, we are also at a critical stage in our normal five-year planning cycle, during which time we must complete a number of key plans including our Strategic and Environment Management Plans.
- Environment Plan 2012-2017
- Strategic Plan 2012-2017
- Summerland Peninsula Conceptual Framework
Environment Plan 2012-2017
What is the Environment Plan
As a Committee of Management under Victoria’s Crown Land Reserves Act 1978, our Board is required to set out its intentions for the management of Phillip Island Nature Parks. The main ways we do this are through our five year Strategic Plan, which has just been completed for the period 2012-2017, and our five year Environment Plan, which is in the final draft stages after extensive community and stakeholder engagement.
The Environment Plan will establish our key goals and priority actions for the protection and enhancement of the natural and cultural assets in our care within the Nature Parks, including:
- Vegetation management
- Fauna conservation
- Pest animal and plant management
- Tracks, trails and pathways
- Public access
- Risk management
How was the Environment Plan 2012-2017 be developed?
Our Environment Department is responsible for the development of the Environment Plan. Because some of the areas addressed in the plan are of significant public and stakeholder interest, extensive consultation has taken place with the general community, local groups and organisations, and experts in the area of conservation and environmental management.
The Environment Plan draws on the ‘Asset Based Environmental Management’ approach currently being introduced by the Department of Sustainability and Environment and other key natural resource managers in Victoria.
Environment Plan 2012-2017 (5MB)
Strategic Plan 2012-2017
The Strategic Plan 2012-2017 is the Nature Parks’ road map for the future. It sets out the main directions we will take in the next five years, and establishes our long-term goals.
Phillip Island Nature Parks’ Strategic Plan 2012-2017 was developed over a six month period in 2011. Its development involved significant consultation with our staff, local community and interest groups, and key Nature Parks stakeholders.
A draft plan was released in September 2011 with five weeks for public comment. A total of 40 responses were received from a broad range of individuals and organisations in response to the first draft plan. Significant amendments were made as a result of our community’s suggestions and input.
The Environment Plan has been approved by the Minster for Environment and Climate Change, and released to our staff, community and stakeholders.
More information:
Strategic Plan 2012-2017 (2.3MB)
Summerland Peninsula Conceptual Framework
What is happening at the Summerland Peninsula?
In 2010, a 25 year program by successive Victorian governments was completed with the buyback of the Summerland Estate - a residential development which impacted significantly on the Summerland Peninsula’s little penguin colony to the point that the birds risked extinction. The former estate is now incorporated into Phillip Island Nature Parks.
We now have an extraordinary opportunity to enhance the unique mix of landscape, seascape, flora and fauna that the Summerland Peninsula represents, and to create a world-class destination for conservation, recreation and ecotourism.
One of the most pressing priorities is to obtain funding for a new Penguin Parade Visitor Centre. However, to be able to request funding support from the State Government, it is a requirement to develop an overall future vision for the Nature Parks and specifically the Summerland Peninsula. To commence this process, in 2011 we engaged a consultancy firm to develop a 20 year ‘Conceptual Framework for the Summerland Peninsula’.
This framework provides a precinct-wide vision for more diverse and layered ecotourism experiences, and better integration of environmental management, education and research in the visitor experience. It includes recommendations regarding the Penguin Parade building, Nobbies building, walkways, viewing areas, visitor experiences and road systems – including consideration of the long-term management of the South Coast Road.
The next step is to meet key government funding cycles. The Nature Parks is now moving towards the development of a Master Plan which will include key costings, and the development of a submission to government for consideration.
More information:
The Phillip Island Penguin Parade is one of Australia's most popular wildlife attractions - perfect for a family holiday or getting back to nature.
Experience wild koalas in their natural habitat and stroll through Aussie bushland at our environmentally sustainable Centre dedicated to koala conservation.
Step back in time... meet the farm animals, relax in the cafe, enjoy the water views, stroll amongst heritage buildings and lovely gardens.
Located only 5 minutes from the Penguin Parade and overlooking the wild water of Bass Strait, the FREE Nobbies Centre showcases Australian fur seals and the unique marine life in our Southern Oceans.