Wednesday 20 June 2007
George finds a new home
I am sat here tonight reflecting on my decision to find a new home for my puppy George.
Response from Melbourne Water
The online petiion was forwarded to Melbourne water yesterday, and they have repsonded with the following:
'Thank you for your response. I, or another member of the Melbourne Water Project Working Group, will make contact with you in the near future regarding the Future Directions Plan'.
kind regards
George C Charakos
Water Resources Engineer
Urban Water Planning
Strategy & Planning
Melbourne Water
So well done, we will wait to here what imput we can have regarding the proposed changes.
Keeep up the good work on the petition. I have been advised that people are getting confused with the entering of the code, when signing the petition. The code should be visable on the screen at the left hand side of the entry box. It will be hard to read as its a secure coded entry.
'Thank you for your response. I, or another member of the Melbourne Water Project Working Group, will make contact with you in the near future regarding the Future Directions Plan'.
kind regards
George C Charakos
Water Resources Engineer
Urban Water Planning
Strategy & Planning
Melbourne Water
So well done, we will wait to here what imput we can have regarding the proposed changes.
Keeep up the good work on the petition. I have been advised that people are getting confused with the entering of the code, when signing the petition. The code should be visable on the screen at the left hand side of the entry box. It will be hard to read as its a secure coded entry.
Tuesday 19 June 2007
Petition submitted
Great news, today we reached a grand tally of 10 signature's and we have submitted the petition to Melbourne water.
Don't forget that the deadline set by Melbourne Water has passed!!! It wasn't a lot of time, and I know that a lot of you feel that the efforts you have made submitting surveys has been a waste of time because your input has been completely ignored, in the proposed changes. But don't give up! Tell all that are using the park to sign the petition. We will be submitting a request to the Bracks government, asking them to review the need for more off road involvement in parks against their commitment too '2' new off leash dog parks in the region. But we need more signature's. Don't give up our park without making sure that we have a voice regarding its future use.
This is our dog park, its been our dog park for a long time now. We can make a difference with this petition.
Sign up today, lets let the Premier know that there is more than one use for our park. 10 signature's is still 10 votes. Keep up the good work.
Don't forget that the deadline set by Melbourne Water has passed!!! It wasn't a lot of time, and I know that a lot of you feel that the efforts you have made submitting surveys has been a waste of time because your input has been completely ignored, in the proposed changes. But don't give up! Tell all that are using the park to sign the petition. We will be submitting a request to the Bracks government, asking them to review the need for more off road involvement in parks against their commitment too '2' new off leash dog parks in the region. But we need more signature's. Don't give up our park without making sure that we have a voice regarding its future use.
This is our dog park, its been our dog park for a long time now. We can make a difference with this petition.
Sign up today, lets let the Premier know that there is more than one use for our park. 10 signature's is still 10 votes. Keep up the good work.
Friday 8 June 2007
Below are extracts from the report regarding the future use of the area. The most significant, but least reported seems to be the linking of walking trails in the area, making this the start or finish point for one of the many trails throughout the Dandenong Ranges.
The considerations for the existing wildlife and fauna seem to be unsubstantiated in many ways, and the report recommends determining the levels of protected and valuable wildlife in the park.
The question remains is it really necessary to make these major changes? There are a multitude of walking trails and national parks throughout the Dandenong Ranges for these types of activities. Yet there are extremely limited areas that dog owners are allowed to exercise there pets responsibly.
The users of the park are dedicated users who frequent the park on a regular basis. There is no substantial evidence in the report to suggest that these changes will increase visitors to the asset.
Recent improvements to the park are recommended to be removed and replaced incurring substantial costs, replacing bridges walkways and car parks, all for estimated interest for expected visitors when linked with the current trails in the area. I for one would like to see the numbers using these trails and a survey of their interest in the proposed changes to the area.
The park is an overflow and water retention area. The Parks uses are limited, as facilities such as toilets cannot be included due to the fact that the area floods! No doubt the flora and wildlife will be impacted during heavy rainfall, but these reflections are limited in the report.
The water quality requires major improvements to encourage the use as a wetland area. The lake will need to be drained to carry out these works, and the wildlife relocated! The details of which are minimal in the report.
The success of the future plan relies heavily on investment from landowners and councils. No evidence of their support is evident in the report.
Major threat to the wildlife in the park is from foxes and wild cats. What will be the impact on reducing visitors and dogs to the population of other pr editors? will the chain link fences keep out cats and foxes? This newly created habitat will be a wonder full place for introduced species to hunt and roam. Guess what cats and foxes don't pay fines imposed by councils! Chain link fences in my experience don't tend to be to much of a deterrent to these species. What are the recommendations and is there an expected increase after changes? Not discussed in the report.
Lets start asking questions as to the viability of these proposed changes, and request that the current users of the park be taken into consideration in the development.
Sign the On-line petition so it can be submitted to Melbourne Water, and be taken into consideration in future discussions regarding the area.
Attachments from report:
ISSUES
• The lake and wetland inlet zones are subject to significant sediment loads from the
Upper Dandenong and Dobsons Creek catchments. There is no current monitoring of
sediment build up in the lake and inlet zone.
• Any future desilting would require the lake to be drained and will potentially impact on
habitat values for Flora and Fauna Guarantee listed species using areas of open water
and indigenous marsh vegetation at the inlet zone.
• During de-silting, a dewatering storage area will be required on site away from the
primary inflow to the retarding basin. This may impact on short-term landscape
amenity.
• The lake edge is eroding due to wave action and high levels of dog access in certain
areas.
• There is no survey of water depth within the lake to inform monitoring of sediment build
up and formation of benches.
• There are no safety benches in the ornamental wetland. This limits opportunity for
macrophyte establishment, water quality treatment function and the deep water may
present hazards to recreational users.
• Surcharge from local roadside drainage along Liverpool Road is causing erosion in the
existing unsealed car park.
16. Monitor impacts of introduced animals and implement control programs as
required to minimise potential threats to the Swamp Skink population,
waterbirds and other native wildlife.
17. Remove exotic waterfowl from the retarding basin lakes as required to
minimise potential detrimental impacts on native waterbirds.
18. Designate environmentally sensitive locations within the reserve as ‘Habitat
Refuge Areas’ from which dogs and recreational activities are excluded to
minimise disturbances to significant remnant vegetation and native wildlife.
19. Utilise Local Laws, education programs and enforcement measures
ensuring dogs are kept on leashes as required to minimise disturbances to
native wildlife and prevent uncontrolled entry to environmentally sensitive
areas.
20. Discourage the feeding of waterfowl on the lakes through signage and
education programs to assist in reducing the dominance of aggressive
species.
21. Increase community awareness and ownership of the environmental values
of the site where opportunities arise, such as through the installation of
interpretive signage and facilities and potential involvement in
environmental education programs and revegetation activities.
Managing visitor impacts
Remnant vegetation and wetland areas within the Liverpool Road Retarding Basin
are sensitive to disturbances associated with recreational activities and their impacts
should be minimised wherever possible to protect significant vegetation and native
wildlife occurring within the reserve.
The widespread use of the reserve for the exercising of dogs is a major issue
requiring attention in the ongoing protection of environmental values. The dogs are
often unrestrained, despite signage advising they are required to be on leashes, and
are frequently observed chasing native waterbirds and trampling through wetland
vegetation areas. This is particularly likely to be adversely impacting on the diversity
of waterbirds present and the suitability of the site as breeding habitat. Many wetland
birds which would otherwise be attracted to the site are either absent or visit
infrequently because of regular disturbance throughout most areas. They include
larger non-swimming waterbirds, such as egrets and herons, and smaller cryptic
Action 18 Designate environmentally sensitive locations within the reserve as
‘Habitat Refuge Areas’ from which dogs and recreational activities
are excluded to minimise disturbances to significant remnant
vegetation and native wildlife.
Dogs should be required to be kept on leashes elsewhere within the reserve to
minimise disturbances to native wildlife and protect uncontrolled entry to
environmentally sensitive areas. Local Laws, education programs and enforcement
measures should be utilised as required to ensure visitors to the reserve understand
the importance of restraining dogs within the site.
Action 19 Utilise Local Laws, education programs and enforcement measures
ensuring dogs are kept on leashes as required to minimise
disturbances to native wildlife and prevent uncontrolled entry to
environmentally sensitive areas.
The widespread feeding of wildfowl by visitors to the lakes in the reserve is generally
favouring a limited range of aggressive species which are likely to actively exclude
other waterbirds. This should be discouraged through signage and education
programs wherever possible.
Action 20 Discourage the feeding of waterfowl on the lakes through signage
and education programs to assist in reducing the dominance of
aggressive species.
Environment Assessment Report – Liverpool Road Retarding Basin, Boronia
Rik Brown – Botanical Consultant (03) 5962 4332 Page 38
There are substantial opportunities for raising community awareness of the
environmental values of the reserve and requirements for their protection. These
could potentially include the future installation of interpretive signage promoting
significant wetland and remnant vegetation values, conducting environmental
education programs and establishment of minimal impact facilities such as bird hides
and boardwalk trails through wetland areas. Community involvement in revegetation
activities may also be desirable to increase awareness and ownership of the site.
Action 21 Increase community awareness and ownership of the environmental
values of the site where opportunities arise, such as through the
installation of interpretive signage and facilities and potential
involvement in environmental education programs and revegetation
activities.
Monitoring significant species
Surveys should be undertaken on an ongoing basis to monitor the occurrence and
distribution of significant species within the reserve. This should particularly include
ongoing monitoring of the Swamp Skink population to assess the effectiveness of
habitat protection and restoration measures. Surveys of frog populations within
wetland areas should be undertaken to assess the potential occurrence of significant
species and determine requirements for their protection, particularly prior to any
draining or de-silting activities. Ongoing monitoring of Platypus and other aquatic
fauna within the site and waterways further upstream would also be desirable to
monitor population movements and fluctuations.
Action 22 Undertake monitoring programs for significant species within the
reserve on an ongoing basis to assess their distribution and the
effectiveness of habitat restoration measures.
6.0 ISSUES FOR CONSIDERATION
A number of issues will need to be considered in the environmental enhancement
works program. These include the following;
• No loss of total storage to be considered at the site – means export of material
off site for some new works. Retain open grass area for any future dewatering
works
• Retain a proportion of low flows to lake, during planning for proposed new
low flow diversion to creek as outlined in the Project Concept Plan, to ensure
that the lake and wetlands are maintained as critical habitats
• Monitor impacts of ongoing sedimentation on the lake and inlet zone habitats,
water quality and vegetation. Provide upstream sediment trapping as outlined
Project Concept Plan to minimise the potential future need and frequency of
desilting of the lake and subsequent impacts on habitat values
• If major desilting of the lake is required at some point in the future ensure
consideration of habitat protection and transition prior to works. Investigate
maximising the long term environmental benefits during works by resetting
the lake floor to increase diversity and sustainability of wet habitat areas.
• Rearrange paths and creek crossings to create and extend creek and wetland
habitat zones not accessible to people or dogs
• Relocate the existing bridge over Dandenong Creek to improve links to car
parking and the future new bike path connection while reducing impact on the
lake inlet zone habitat values.
The considerations for the existing wildlife and fauna seem to be unsubstantiated in many ways, and the report recommends determining the levels of protected and valuable wildlife in the park.
The question remains is it really necessary to make these major changes? There are a multitude of walking trails and national parks throughout the Dandenong Ranges for these types of activities. Yet there are extremely limited areas that dog owners are allowed to exercise there pets responsibly.
The users of the park are dedicated users who frequent the park on a regular basis. There is no substantial evidence in the report to suggest that these changes will increase visitors to the asset.
Recent improvements to the park are recommended to be removed and replaced incurring substantial costs, replacing bridges walkways and car parks, all for estimated interest for expected visitors when linked with the current trails in the area. I for one would like to see the numbers using these trails and a survey of their interest in the proposed changes to the area.
The park is an overflow and water retention area. The Parks uses are limited, as facilities such as toilets cannot be included due to the fact that the area floods! No doubt the flora and wildlife will be impacted during heavy rainfall, but these reflections are limited in the report.
The water quality requires major improvements to encourage the use as a wetland area. The lake will need to be drained to carry out these works, and the wildlife relocated! The details of which are minimal in the report.
The success of the future plan relies heavily on investment from landowners and councils. No evidence of their support is evident in the report.
Major threat to the wildlife in the park is from foxes and wild cats. What will be the impact on reducing visitors and dogs to the population of other pr editors? will the chain link fences keep out cats and foxes? This newly created habitat will be a wonder full place for introduced species to hunt and roam. Guess what cats and foxes don't pay fines imposed by councils! Chain link fences in my experience don't tend to be to much of a deterrent to these species. What are the recommendations and is there an expected increase after changes? Not discussed in the report.
Lets start asking questions as to the viability of these proposed changes, and request that the current users of the park be taken into consideration in the development.
Sign the On-line petition so it can be submitted to Melbourne Water, and be taken into consideration in future discussions regarding the area.
Attachments from report:
ISSUES
• The lake and wetland inlet zones are subject to significant sediment loads from the
Upper Dandenong and Dobsons Creek catchments. There is no current monitoring of
sediment build up in the lake and inlet zone.
• Any future desilting would require the lake to be drained and will potentially impact on
habitat values for Flora and Fauna Guarantee listed species using areas of open water
and indigenous marsh vegetation at the inlet zone.
• During de-silting, a dewatering storage area will be required on site away from the
primary inflow to the retarding basin. This may impact on short-term landscape
amenity.
• The lake edge is eroding due to wave action and high levels of dog access in certain
areas.
• There is no survey of water depth within the lake to inform monitoring of sediment build
up and formation of benches.
• There are no safety benches in the ornamental wetland. This limits opportunity for
macrophyte establishment, water quality treatment function and the deep water may
present hazards to recreational users.
• Surcharge from local roadside drainage along Liverpool Road is causing erosion in the
existing unsealed car park.
16. Monitor impacts of introduced animals and implement control programs as
required to minimise potential threats to the Swamp Skink population,
waterbirds and other native wildlife.
17. Remove exotic waterfowl from the retarding basin lakes as required to
minimise potential detrimental impacts on native waterbirds.
18. Designate environmentally sensitive locations within the reserve as ‘Habitat
Refuge Areas’ from which dogs and recreational activities are excluded to
minimise disturbances to significant remnant vegetation and native wildlife.
19. Utilise Local Laws, education programs and enforcement measures
ensuring dogs are kept on leashes as required to minimise disturbances to
native wildlife and prevent uncontrolled entry to environmentally sensitive
areas.
20. Discourage the feeding of waterfowl on the lakes through signage and
education programs to assist in reducing the dominance of aggressive
species.
21. Increase community awareness and ownership of the environmental values
of the site where opportunities arise, such as through the installation of
interpretive signage and facilities and potential involvement in
environmental education programs and revegetation activities.
Managing visitor impacts
Remnant vegetation and wetland areas within the Liverpool Road Retarding Basin
are sensitive to disturbances associated with recreational activities and their impacts
should be minimised wherever possible to protect significant vegetation and native
wildlife occurring within the reserve.
The widespread use of the reserve for the exercising of dogs is a major issue
requiring attention in the ongoing protection of environmental values. The dogs are
often unrestrained, despite signage advising they are required to be on leashes, and
are frequently observed chasing native waterbirds and trampling through wetland
vegetation areas. This is particularly likely to be adversely impacting on the diversity
of waterbirds present and the suitability of the site as breeding habitat. Many wetland
birds which would otherwise be attracted to the site are either absent or visit
infrequently because of regular disturbance throughout most areas. They include
larger non-swimming waterbirds, such as egrets and herons, and smaller cryptic
Action 18 Designate environmentally sensitive locations within the reserve as
‘Habitat Refuge Areas’ from which dogs and recreational activities
are excluded to minimise disturbances to significant remnant
vegetation and native wildlife.
Dogs should be required to be kept on leashes elsewhere within the reserve to
minimise disturbances to native wildlife and protect uncontrolled entry to
environmentally sensitive areas. Local Laws, education programs and enforcement
measures should be utilised as required to ensure visitors to the reserve understand
the importance of restraining dogs within the site.
Action 19 Utilise Local Laws, education programs and enforcement measures
ensuring dogs are kept on leashes as required to minimise
disturbances to native wildlife and prevent uncontrolled entry to
environmentally sensitive areas.
The widespread feeding of wildfowl by visitors to the lakes in the reserve is generally
favouring a limited range of aggressive species which are likely to actively exclude
other waterbirds. This should be discouraged through signage and education
programs wherever possible.
Action 20 Discourage the feeding of waterfowl on the lakes through signage
and education programs to assist in reducing the dominance of
aggressive species.
Environment Assessment Report – Liverpool Road Retarding Basin, Boronia
Rik Brown – Botanical Consultant (03) 5962 4332 Page 38
There are substantial opportunities for raising community awareness of the
environmental values of the reserve and requirements for their protection. These
could potentially include the future installation of interpretive signage promoting
significant wetland and remnant vegetation values, conducting environmental
education programs and establishment of minimal impact facilities such as bird hides
and boardwalk trails through wetland areas. Community involvement in revegetation
activities may also be desirable to increase awareness and ownership of the site.
Action 21 Increase community awareness and ownership of the environmental
values of the site where opportunities arise, such as through the
installation of interpretive signage and facilities and potential
involvement in environmental education programs and revegetation
activities.
Monitoring significant species
Surveys should be undertaken on an ongoing basis to monitor the occurrence and
distribution of significant species within the reserve. This should particularly include
ongoing monitoring of the Swamp Skink population to assess the effectiveness of
habitat protection and restoration measures. Surveys of frog populations within
wetland areas should be undertaken to assess the potential occurrence of significant
species and determine requirements for their protection, particularly prior to any
draining or de-silting activities. Ongoing monitoring of Platypus and other aquatic
fauna within the site and waterways further upstream would also be desirable to
monitor population movements and fluctuations.
Action 22 Undertake monitoring programs for significant species within the
reserve on an ongoing basis to assess their distribution and the
effectiveness of habitat restoration measures.
6.0 ISSUES FOR CONSIDERATION
A number of issues will need to be considered in the environmental enhancement
works program. These include the following;
• No loss of total storage to be considered at the site – means export of material
off site for some new works. Retain open grass area for any future dewatering
works
• Retain a proportion of low flows to lake, during planning for proposed new
low flow diversion to creek as outlined in the Project Concept Plan, to ensure
that the lake and wetlands are maintained as critical habitats
• Monitor impacts of ongoing sedimentation on the lake and inlet zone habitats,
water quality and vegetation. Provide upstream sediment trapping as outlined
Project Concept Plan to minimise the potential future need and frequency of
desilting of the lake and subsequent impacts on habitat values
• If major desilting of the lake is required at some point in the future ensure
consideration of habitat protection and transition prior to works. Investigate
maximising the long term environmental benefits during works by resetting
the lake floor to increase diversity and sustainability of wet habitat areas.
• Rearrange paths and creek crossings to create and extend creek and wetland
habitat zones not accessible to people or dogs
• Relocate the existing bridge over Dandenong Creek to improve links to car
parking and the future new bike path connection while reducing impact on the
lake inlet zone habitat values.
I'm just walking the dog.
Hi Guys,
Well I'm off out for my early morning dog walk. Our dog is a pup and very lively. With the demands of Kids and Work its difficult to make sure that he gets a good 1hr exercise every day.
No better place the the retarding basin though. Great open space, place to swim. We love it first thing in the morning because there isnt many people around and he can have a great run. Starts him off well for the day and if we are both at work keeps him contented during the day at home alone.
Shame we wont be able to use this facility soon!? Come get on the petition and keep access open to our dog park, after all its been that way a long time now!
Well I'm off out for my early morning dog walk. Our dog is a pup and very lively. With the demands of Kids and Work its difficult to make sure that he gets a good 1hr exercise every day.
No better place the the retarding basin though. Great open space, place to swim. We love it first thing in the morning because there isnt many people around and he can have a great run. Starts him off well for the day and if we are both at work keeps him contented during the day at home alone.
Shame we wont be able to use this facility soon!? Come get on the petition and keep access open to our dog park, after all its been that way a long time now!
Thursday 31 May 2007
Information Leaflet and Questionnaire
This has to as good a place to start as anywhere. The care and attention spent ensuring that a large number of users of the facility was collected, was attempted, however only 56 responses where received.
The results of the survey where excepted as the tool for use to gauge public use of the Park. The results are published at the end of the PDF report, and after reading the various recommendations for new restrictions in the park, it would seem the most important aspects of the park users needs have been denied.
Over 80% of the surveyed most important aspects of the Park uses where;
1). Of leash Dog Walking
2). Feeding marine bird life
3). Walking the tracks and bush lands
4). Bird watching.
5). Open Space and Views
all these are recommended to be banned or restricted.
Activities suggested in the survey such as picnic's, meeting people, meditation, cycling at no stage where over 10% of the reason for visiting, for any one item.
55% of people who visit the park do so with the intent of walking there dogs.
A study was done to show the postcodes of visitors from the site. The conclusion drawn was that the majority of the visitors were local. However there are already a large percentage of regular visitors to the park from areas as far afield as;
3136 Croydon
3138 Mooroolbark
3140 Lilydale
3152 Wantirna South
3156 Ferntree Gully
3179 Scoresby
4211 Interstate
Postcode Summary:
3765 Montrose
3153 Bayswater
3133 Vermont
This result from only 56 people is an indication of the lack of similar facilities in surrounding areas. What is the knock on affect to the other parks and reserves in these areas, when people from as far afield as Croydon start to try to find new places to walk their dogs.
It is a nice idea that Knox Council have the resources spare to erect vast amounts of chain link fences and provide offers to monitor the dog walking activities within the park. But as people start to frequent less appropriate places to exercise their pets. Will these various councils have the resources required to police off-leash walking of dogs over such a large area.
So, no formal discusions with the majority of users of the park. Indications from the questionable questionarre, completely ignored. Surely it is time to at least further discuss the issues with these regular visitors.
Follow the link to the Labour party policy regarding parks and reserves. It is very specific, and promises the introduction of 2 NEW of leash dog walking parks in the south eadt area. Yet here is a long term existing dog park, regulary visited by people in a 30km radius. That we are recommending the closure of.
Also in the labour Party report there is no mention a financial allocation in this term for spending in the areas the report recomends. Such a large scale vision seem's to be lacking detail regarding the cost's and further investment in public facilities.
Take the time to read the survey, I will paste it below:
Liverpool Road Retarding Basin
Future Directions Plan
Summary of Information Leaflet Questionnaire Responses
Prepared by Thompson Berrill Landscape Design P/L for Melbourne Water November 2006
INTRODUCTION
An information leaflet and questionnaire was prepared to seek feedback from the community regarding
their existing use of the site, reasons for visiting the site, and issues they would like considered in
development of the Future Directions Plan.
Melbourne Water distributed leaflets by letterbox drop to adjoining residents in Chandlers Lane and
leaflets were made available at the information board on site, located at the existing site carpark off
Liverpool Road between September 27 and November 10 2006. Additional leaflets were also made
available to Yarra Ranges, Maroondah and Knox Councils for display in their local customer service
centres and on their respective Council websites, and to Stakeholder Groups including Knox
Environment Society, Salvation Army Mountain Valley Camp, Parks Victoria, Australian Platypus
Conservancy and the First Friends of Dandenong Creek. Advertisements were placed in the Knox
Journal, Knox Leader and Maroondah Leader and the leaflet was also made available on Melbourne
Water's website.
A total of 56 questionnaires were completed and returned. The outcomes of these have been
summarised in this paper.
1.0 FREQUENCY OF VISITS
Respondents were asked to tick a box indicating how frequently they visited the site.
The percentage columns have been calculated on the basis of the total number of returned
questionnaires, 56.
The high percentage of Daily and Weekly users represented in the returned questionnaires
indicates the site display has alerted users to the project, and the display could be used
again as an effective tool to promote the draft recommendations of the Future Directions
Plan, and to gain further community comment once the draft plan is complete.
LIVERPOOL ROAD RETARDING BASIN SUMMARY OF INFORMATION LEAFLET #1 OUTCOMES PREPARED BY TBLD P/L NOVEMBER 2006 Page 2
2.0 WHERE THEY LIVE
2.1 Users by postcode
Respondents were asked to indicate their postcode. The percentage columns have been
calculated on the basis of the total number of returned questionnaires, 56.
The high percentage of users from the Basin and Boronia reflects the existing local
catchment based in Knox City Council. Following connection of the future shared trail link,
this may change with an increasing number of visitors coming to the site from the
Bayswater and Kilsyth area via the shared trail.
2.2 Users by municipality
Due to the existing lack of off road path connections to the site it is expected that the
majority of users (local and regional) drive to the site. This is also reflected in percentage
of users from beyond directly adjoining suburbs.
LIVERPOOL ROAD RETARDING BASIN SUMMARY OF INFORMATION LEAFLET #1 OUTCOMES PREPARED BY TBLD P/L NOVEMBER 2006 Page 3
3.0 WHAT PEOPLE VALUE ABOUT THE SITE
Respondents were asked in an open format question what they valued about the site. The
majority of total responses indicated that the natural values such as bushland, open space
and views, were the most significant value. Added to that, a percentage specifically
mentioned the water bodies including the lake, creek and wetland area. Birdlife was the
highest single value and represented 32% of the total overall.
Recreation including access and primarily the walking paths were highly valued, while
walking and socializing dogs was also rated highly by respondents.
Summary of all values
The percentages have been calculated on the basis of the total number of returned
questionnaires, 56. Note many respondents indicated more than one value.
Respondents were asked to indicate their reasons for visiting the reserve. The
percentages have been calculated on the basis of the total number of returned
questionnaires, 56. Some respondents indicated more than one reason.
Birdlife
7% Ducks, feeding (i.e. 7% of returned questionnaires indicated they visited for duck
feeding)
5% Birdlife
2% Duck, watching
2% Knox Birdwatching Group
Open space and natural values
9% Open space, close to home
9% Quiet, Peaceful, Tranquil
7% Appreciate nature, environment, scenery
7% Open space, natural character important
5% Fresh air
5% Natural bushland
5% Open space, beautiful area
4% Large open space
4% Open space, enjoy visiting it
2% Clean
2% Safe
2% Scenery
2% Sentimental
2% Trees
2% Uncrowded
2% Views to the Dandenongs
2% Wildlife
Creek, lake and wetlands
5% Lakes
4% Wetlands
Dogs
55% Dog walking
9% Dogs, opportunity to socialise with other dog owners
9% Dogs, opportunity to socialise with other dogs
7% Dogs, opportunities for dogs to swim
5% Dogs, dog owners are responsible
2% Dog friendly area
2% Dog off lead area
Access, paths and passive recreation
39% Walking
27% Exercising
LIVERPOOL ROAD RETARDING BASIN SUMMARY OF INFORMATION LEAFLET #1 OUTCOMES PREPARED BY TBLD P/L NOVEMBER 2006 Page 5
13% Relaxation
9% Taking children
7% Meeting people
7% Picnics
5% Walking paths
4% Cycling
4% Meditation
4% Taking visitors
4% Wildlife, variety of wildlife to enjoy
2% Access, easy to access
2% Bridges
2% Nature walks
2% Recreation
2% Tai Chi
2% Yabbying
2% Taking grandchildren
2% Tadpoling
2% BBQs
2% Informal walking paths
5.0 ISSUES TO BE ADDRESSED IN THE PLAN
Respondents were asked in an open ended question what issues they would like
addressed in the plan.
dog waste (10%).
51% of responses requested improvements or additional recreational facilities including
Dogs
4% Dog friendly area, retain
4% Dog off-lead area to be fully fenced and secure
4% Dog off-lead area to be provided
4% Dog off-lead area, appreciated
4% Dog off-lead area, important for exercising and socialisation
4% Dog off-lead area, retain
4% Dog waste, owners to clean up
4% Dog waste, provide bags for disposal
4% Dog waste, provide bins for disposal
4% Dogs off-lead, impacting on birdlife
2% Dogs off-lead, impacting on other users
2% Dogs off-lead, personal safety concerns
2% Dogs on-lead, enforcement required
2% Dogs to be on-lead required
55% OF PEOPLE WHO VISIT THE PARK DO SO TO WALK THERE DOG!
46% OF PEOPLE SURVEYED ASK THAT OFF LEASH DOG WALKING BE TAKEN INTO
ACCOUNT IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF ANY PLAN!
Call for more discussion regarding the continued succesful balance of USE VERSUS ENVIORONMENT follow the links from this site and read the full content of the report, and research into this issue.
The results of the survey where excepted as the tool for use to gauge public use of the Park. The results are published at the end of the PDF report, and after reading the various recommendations for new restrictions in the park, it would seem the most important aspects of the park users needs have been denied.
Over 80% of the surveyed most important aspects of the Park uses where;
1). Of leash Dog Walking
2). Feeding marine bird life
3). Walking the tracks and bush lands
4). Bird watching.
5). Open Space and Views
all these are recommended to be banned or restricted.
Activities suggested in the survey such as picnic's, meeting people, meditation, cycling at no stage where over 10% of the reason for visiting, for any one item.
55% of people who visit the park do so with the intent of walking there dogs.
A study was done to show the postcodes of visitors from the site. The conclusion drawn was that the majority of the visitors were local. However there are already a large percentage of regular visitors to the park from areas as far afield as;
3136 Croydon
3138 Mooroolbark
3140 Lilydale
3152 Wantirna South
3156 Ferntree Gully
3179 Scoresby
4211 Interstate
Postcode Summary:
3765 Montrose
3153 Bayswater
3133 Vermont
This result from only 56 people is an indication of the lack of similar facilities in surrounding areas. What is the knock on affect to the other parks and reserves in these areas, when people from as far afield as Croydon start to try to find new places to walk their dogs.
It is a nice idea that Knox Council have the resources spare to erect vast amounts of chain link fences and provide offers to monitor the dog walking activities within the park. But as people start to frequent less appropriate places to exercise their pets. Will these various councils have the resources required to police off-leash walking of dogs over such a large area.
So, no formal discusions with the majority of users of the park. Indications from the questionable questionarre, completely ignored. Surely it is time to at least further discuss the issues with these regular visitors.
Follow the link to the Labour party policy regarding parks and reserves. It is very specific, and promises the introduction of 2 NEW of leash dog walking parks in the south eadt area. Yet here is a long term existing dog park, regulary visited by people in a 30km radius. That we are recommending the closure of.
Also in the labour Party report there is no mention a financial allocation in this term for spending in the areas the report recomends. Such a large scale vision seem's to be lacking detail regarding the cost's and further investment in public facilities.
Take the time to read the survey, I will paste it below:
Liverpool Road Retarding Basin
Future Directions Plan
Summary of Information Leaflet Questionnaire Responses
Prepared by Thompson Berrill Landscape Design P/L for Melbourne Water November 2006
INTRODUCTION
An information leaflet and questionnaire was prepared to seek feedback from the community regarding
their existing use of the site, reasons for visiting the site, and issues they would like considered in
development of the Future Directions Plan.
Melbourne Water distributed leaflets by letterbox drop to adjoining residents in Chandlers Lane and
leaflets were made available at the information board on site, located at the existing site carpark off
Liverpool Road between September 27 and November 10 2006. Additional leaflets were also made
available to Yarra Ranges, Maroondah and Knox Councils for display in their local customer service
centres and on their respective Council websites, and to Stakeholder Groups including Knox
Environment Society, Salvation Army Mountain Valley Camp, Parks Victoria, Australian Platypus
Conservancy and the First Friends of Dandenong Creek. Advertisements were placed in the Knox
Journal, Knox Leader and Maroondah Leader and the leaflet was also made available on Melbourne
Water's website.
A total of 56 questionnaires were completed and returned. The outcomes of these have been
summarised in this paper.
1.0 FREQUENCY OF VISITS
Respondents were asked to tick a box indicating how frequently they visited the site.
The percentage columns have been calculated on the basis of the total number of returned
questionnaires, 56.
The high percentage of Daily and Weekly users represented in the returned questionnaires
indicates the site display has alerted users to the project, and the display could be used
again as an effective tool to promote the draft recommendations of the Future Directions
Plan, and to gain further community comment once the draft plan is complete.
LIVERPOOL ROAD RETARDING BASIN SUMMARY OF INFORMATION LEAFLET #1 OUTCOMES PREPARED BY TBLD P/L NOVEMBER 2006 Page 2
2.0 WHERE THEY LIVE
2.1 Users by postcode
Respondents were asked to indicate their postcode. The percentage columns have been
calculated on the basis of the total number of returned questionnaires, 56.
The high percentage of users from the Basin and Boronia reflects the existing local
catchment based in Knox City Council. Following connection of the future shared trail link,
this may change with an increasing number of visitors coming to the site from the
Bayswater and Kilsyth area via the shared trail.
2.2 Users by municipality
Due to the existing lack of off road path connections to the site it is expected that the
majority of users (local and regional) drive to the site. This is also reflected in percentage
of users from beyond directly adjoining suburbs.
LIVERPOOL ROAD RETARDING BASIN SUMMARY OF INFORMATION LEAFLET #1 OUTCOMES PREPARED BY TBLD P/L NOVEMBER 2006 Page 3
3.0 WHAT PEOPLE VALUE ABOUT THE SITE
Respondents were asked in an open format question what they valued about the site. The
majority of total responses indicated that the natural values such as bushland, open space
and views, were the most significant value. Added to that, a percentage specifically
mentioned the water bodies including the lake, creek and wetland area. Birdlife was the
highest single value and represented 32% of the total overall.
Recreation including access and primarily the walking paths were highly valued, while
walking and socializing dogs was also rated highly by respondents.
Summary of all values
The percentages have been calculated on the basis of the total number of returned
questionnaires, 56. Note many respondents indicated more than one value.
Respondents were asked to indicate their reasons for visiting the reserve. The
percentages have been calculated on the basis of the total number of returned
questionnaires, 56. Some respondents indicated more than one reason.
Dog walking was the reason most people visit the reserve with over 55%.Summary of all reasons to visit
Birdlife
7% Ducks, feeding (i.e. 7% of returned questionnaires indicated they visited for duck
feeding)
5% Birdlife
2% Duck, watching
2% Knox Birdwatching Group
Open space and natural values
9% Open space, close to home
9% Quiet, Peaceful, Tranquil
7% Appreciate nature, environment, scenery
7% Open space, natural character important
5% Fresh air
5% Natural bushland
5% Open space, beautiful area
4% Large open space
4% Open space, enjoy visiting it
2% Clean
2% Safe
2% Scenery
2% Sentimental
2% Trees
2% Uncrowded
2% Views to the Dandenongs
2% Wildlife
Creek, lake and wetlands
5% Lakes
4% Wetlands
Dogs
55% Dog walking
9% Dogs, opportunity to socialise with other dog owners
9% Dogs, opportunity to socialise with other dogs
7% Dogs, opportunities for dogs to swim
5% Dogs, dog owners are responsible
2% Dog friendly area
2% Dog off lead area
Access, paths and passive recreation
39% Walking
27% Exercising
LIVERPOOL ROAD RETARDING BASIN SUMMARY OF INFORMATION LEAFLET #1 OUTCOMES PREPARED BY TBLD P/L NOVEMBER 2006 Page 5
13% Relaxation
9% Taking children
7% Meeting people
7% Picnics
5% Walking paths
4% Cycling
4% Meditation
4% Taking visitors
4% Wildlife, variety of wildlife to enjoy
2% Access, easy to access
2% Bridges
2% Nature walks
2% Recreation
2% Tai Chi
2% Yabbying
2% Taking grandchildren
2% Tadpoling
2% BBQs
2% Informal walking paths
5.0 ISSUES TO BE ADDRESSED IN THE PLAN
Respondents were asked in an open ended question what issues they would like
addressed in the plan.
Retention (or provision) of the dog off lead was the single biggest issue with an overall total of 46% of responses requesting this be considered in development of the plan. 18% of respondents listed enforcement of dog on lead controlsas an important issue. Other dog issues included provision of dog bags and clean up of
dog waste (10%).
51% of responses requested improvements or additional recreational facilities including
Dogs
4% Dog friendly area, retain
4% Dog off-lead area to be fully fenced and secure
4% Dog off-lead area to be provided
4% Dog off-lead area, appreciated
4% Dog off-lead area, important for exercising and socialisation
4% Dog off-lead area, retain
4% Dog waste, owners to clean up
4% Dog waste, provide bags for disposal
4% Dog waste, provide bins for disposal
4% Dogs off-lead, impacting on birdlife
2% Dogs off-lead, impacting on other users
2% Dogs off-lead, personal safety concerns
2% Dogs on-lead, enforcement required
2% Dogs to be on-lead required
55% OF PEOPLE WHO VISIT THE PARK DO SO TO WALK THERE DOG!
46% OF PEOPLE SURVEYED ASK THAT OFF LEASH DOG WALKING BE TAKEN INTO
ACCOUNT IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF ANY PLAN!
Call for more discussion regarding the continued succesful balance of USE VERSUS ENVIORONMENT follow the links from this site and read the full content of the report, and research into this issue.
Views on the Melbourne Report for future of the Liverpool Road Retarding Basin
Due to the limited time available to rally interest in the current petition on this report. We have written to Mr. George Charakos on email george.charakos@melbournewater.com.au or via post to Urban Water Planning Team, Melbourne Water, PO Box 4342. to advise him of our objection to some of the recomendations in the current draft report.
We have advised Melbourne Water of our intention to prepare a petion regarding these proposalls and requested that the current dealine for comment be extended to allow compiliation of objections.
We will be posting comments supporting our objections on this page, and it is available to post comments, and leave suggestions and feedback regading the current petition.
Please assist in the advertising of this petition by suppling the URL to all interested parties that will be influenced by these recomendations.
If you have don't complete the petition, but want to voice your concerns, please take the time to write or email yur objection to Melbourne water, and help secure an addequate facility to enjoy for all parties concerned.
Regards,
petition team
We have advised Melbourne Water of our intention to prepare a petion regarding these proposalls and requested that the current dealine for comment be extended to allow compiliation of objections.
We will be posting comments supporting our objections on this page, and it is available to post comments, and leave suggestions and feedback regading the current petition.
Please assist in the advertising of this petition by suppling the URL to all interested parties that will be influenced by these recomendations.
If you have don't complete the petition, but want to voice your concerns, please take the time to write or email yur objection to Melbourne water, and help secure an addequate facility to enjoy for all parties concerned.
Regards,
petition team
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