4.3.1 Local ports Context Local ports have important recreation and tourism functions, as well as being important for commercial operations such as fishing, and form part of an integrated network supporting access to the coast. Port of Port Fairy L. Murrell Local ports responsibilities include: wharfs, piers, jetties and marina development, management and operation berthing and mooring development, management and operation - including pump out and refuelling navigation, port operations, regulation and compliance waterway management including boating safety, incident management, emergency response, maritime security, marine pollution response, vessel salvage dredging and sand management slipways, boat-lifting and boat repairs. Currently local port and waterway management responsibilities extend over municipal boundaries and also include areas where other agencies have management responsibilities, such as committees of management, Parks Victoria, and catchment management authorities. This situation results in many agencies being involved in boating and marine infrastructure, and in some areas planning and management responsibilities overlap. Local ports can affect the amenity, use and enjoyment of nearby residential and other private land uses, as well as coastal uses. The need for consultation, collaboration and integration among the various stakeholders is critical so that the needs of one user group are not unduly dominant. Policy 1. Ensure all local ports operate efficiently and effectively, and contribute positively to local character, amenity, recreation, economy and environmental values. 2. Ensure that development or maintenance work of local port facilities considers the impact of storm tides or combined storm tides and storm water, coastal erosion or sand drift, including an allowance for changes in sea level due to subsidence and anticipated climate change. 3. Enhance the community experience and perception of local ports. Actions a. Develop a local ports strategy that includes adaptation to the risks and impacts of climate change (DSE, Local Port Authorities & CoM, MSV). b. Conduct a review of the ports services regulations for local ports (DSE, MSV, Local Port Authorities & CoM).

10 December 2008