Major Milestone: Historic Agreement Signing with Parks Victoria
Published on 15 December 2023
A momentous occasion unfolded recently as the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority's Board Chair Libby Mears, and Chief Executive Officer, Jodie Sizer welcomed the Minister for Environment, Steve Dimopoulos, Parks Victoria Board Chair John Pandazopoulos and CEO Matthew Jackson to its headquarters in Torquay.
The visit held profound significance, serving as the backdrop for the signing of a crucial agreement between the Authority and Parks Victoria.
Under the agreement, the Authority will enter into a services agreement with Parks Victoria for conservation science and environmental works delivery on National Park land for which the Authority assumes management responsibility.
The Authority will bring a holistic approach to visitation management ensuring that it is environmentally sustainable and, that the liveability of local communities is protected. Not one other organisation has the remit to address these challenges for the full length of Great Ocean Road.
The Authority is also preparing for another bumper holiday season that will be boost for local communities and business along the coast. Across the eight caravan parks managed by the Authority, bookings are at 83% per cent for the school holidays, representing a 3% increase on the previous year.
The Authority has invested more than $50 million into the region, through capital works projects, and extensive environmental conservation work. This includes upgrades to caravan park facilities, new beach access stairs, walkways, ramps, and lookouts.
This special part of the State is so important to Victoria that the Government established the Authority as the dedicated parks and coast manager.
The changes mean the area’s special environment will be better protected and there is a coordinated approach to managing the conservation, visitor experience, investment, visitor numbers and community engagement for the parks and coast along the length of the Great Ocean Road.
Quotes attributable to Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority Board Chair Libby Mears
"Minister Dimopoulos' inaugural visit with us signals a united effort toward realising our shared vision for a healthy, thriving Great Ocean Road region."
“Together with Minister Dimopoulos and Parks Victoria, we're laying the foundation for a more sustainable and vibrant future for this special part of Victoria."
Quotes attributable to Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority CEO Jodie Sizer
“Through this collaboration with Parks Victoria, we're fortifying our pledge to safeguard and enhance the natural wonders that define the spectacular stretch of Victorian coastline."
"This historic agreement reflects our unwavering commitment to the region and by joining forces, we're ensuring a legacy of conservation that will benefit generations to come."