Bauple

A Collective Vision 2010

About Bauple
The center of the cosmos for nuts and faries Bauple is a village less than 3km off the Bruce Highway, 30km south of Maryborough, 40km north of Gympie and 220km north of Brisbane. Situated in the Great Sandy Biosphere, Bauple is nestled between State Forest and Mount Bauple National Park (accessible only for scientific study). Workshop participants emphasised that Bauple offers a quiet lifestyle and an enjoyable place to live. Participants also indicated that this community is fiercely proud and protective of its village atmosphere and lush natural environment which boasts a great variety of native fauna and flora. Macadamia nuts were first discovered in Bauple in 1858 and are known locally as Bauple or Bopple Nuts. Bauple was also the site of Australias first inland prawn farm. In addition to macadamias and redclaw, local primary industry also includes cattle, sugar cane, honey, gerberas, citrus and paulownias. Bauple community is changing and growing as people move to the area to access cheap land, for a tree change or to retire. Although young families move into the area, they also leave Bauple to access services and employment available in bigger centres. The presence of retirees in Bauple is considered a community strength, as older people are a source of wisdom. An aging population also creates an increased need for social infrastructure such public transport, home support services and access to medical facilities to encourage older people to stay in their own homes in the local community. Increasing cost of living has an impact on the local community, as a significant number of residents are unemployed, semi-retired or retired and therefore on low or fixed incomes. Subsequently, there was an emphasis on the need for economic development that created employment in the local area. Residents were adamant that any development needed to ensure that the highly valued village atmosphere and natural environment were preserved. It was argued that the communitys capacity for economic development was influenced by access issues (promotion, signage, roads and technology) and Council processes such as development approvals.

About the workshops

Objective
In March 2009, Fraser Coast Regional Council Community Development Unit hosted a Strengthening Small Communities Workshop facilitated by Peter Kenyon. The workshop provided an opportunity to discus existing strengths and potential future directions for small communities on the Fraser Coast. Two residents from Bauple attended the workshop, commenting that more people from Bauple needed to involved in order to drive community initiated progress. In 2010 and 2011, the community will have opportunities to input into the development of the Wide Bay Burnett Regional Plan and the Fraser Coast Community Plan. These plans are empowered by legislation to guide decisions made by Council and state government agencies. State legislation requires periodic reports identifying the progress made against these publicly available planning documents. The Fraser Coast Regional Council Community Development team facilitated two locally specific community development workshops in Bauple in April and May 2010. The intent of the workshops was to Stimulate a whole-of-community conversation about the future of Bauple to develop a shared understanding of what is important to the local community. Empower Bauple community to engage effectively with local government and regional planning processes Develop a working relationship between Fraser Coast Regional Council Community Development team and the Bauple community. Delivering the workshops in Bauple township on Saturday afternoons was intended to maximise

Wide Bay Burnett Regional Plan

In 2010, the (State Government) Department of Infrastructure and Planning is working with local governments and communities to develop a statutory regional plan for Wide Bay Burnett. Regional plans identify: desired regional outcomes policies and actions for achieving these desired regional outcomes the future regional land use pattern regional infrastructure provision to service the future regional land use pattern key regional environmental, economic and cultural resources to be preserved, maintained or developed. Wide Bay Burnett region (including Fraser Coast) currently has a non-statutory plan. It can be viewed at http://www.dip.qld.gov.au/widebayburnettregionalplan.

Local Government Community Plan

The Local Government Bill 2009 was passed in June 2009. The related draft regulations require Queesland Councils to adopt a community plan for their local government area by the 1st December 2011. Progress with the implementation of the community and corporate plans must be reviewed at least annually. Every 5th year, a community plan should be refreshed by comprehensive community engagement. A community plan describes a desired future, goals, strategies and key actions for a local government area. It covers a period of at least 10 years. It is an aspirational plan that articulates the long term future for the local government area as well as strategies to implement the vision. The draft regulations (against the Local Government Act) detail that the process for developing a community plan is generally completed in five phases:1. An intelligence gathering phase where trends, community profiles, data and forecasts are analysed and documented. 2. A community input phase during which residents and stakeholders describe community concerns and identify priority issues and planning themes 3. A community visioning phase to develop a vision for the future 4. A community validation phase to review the proposed visions and test the underlying assumptions A policy phase in which a formal community plan; strategies and actions; and performance measures will be officially adopted by the local council (Queensland Government 2009 cited by QLGSCA 2010) Draft regulations (regarding planning) from the new local government act can be downloaded at www.dip.qld.gov.au/resources/laws/local-government/draft-local-gov-frr-regulation-2009.pdf Late May 2010, Fraser Coast Regional Council began working on their Community Plan with the Have Your Say project that combines a survey and community workshops to gather community input to describe concerns and priority issues. More details are available at www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/web/guest/fcrc2031-have-your-say

Workshop Process

Approximately 70 people attended the first three hour workshop held on the 17th April 2010. The session offered introductory information about planning and community development frameworks. The majority of the agenda used structured small group discussion exploring set themes and questions. Themes included what is the vision for Bauple what are the community strengths and assets (people, environment, organisations, physical assets and heritage) what factors impact on Bauple community (general trends, political, economic, technolgy, environment) what are the needs and wants of Bauple community Groups were then asked to prioritise one goal and brainstorm up to five key actions to achieve that goal. All comments from the workshop were scribed by participants. The facilitator compiled comments into unedited transcripts, then summarizing content into a preliminary report. The preliminary report was circulated to Bauple community members prior to the second action planning workshop (15th of May 2010). Approximately 30 people attended the second workshop, the majority of whom had attended the first workshop. Participants considered the preliminary report and endorsed the vision statements. They then prioritised areas for action and discussed how the community could progress towards achieving goals. All comments from the workshop were scribed by participants. The facilitator compiled comments into unedited transcripts. This report reflects a summary of the workshop content together with additional relevant information. Supporting young people was raised at the initial meeting as a priority area and became the focus of a third workshop specifically targeting participation by young people and residents with a specific interest in youth issues. The youth workshop combined a social activity for young people with a structured discussion exploring priorities for young people. Approximately 20 parents and young people attended. Transcripts of original comments from all workshops are available on request.

Vision and Values

Spirit
Bauple offers a unique village atmosphere that prides itself on being peaceful, quiet and serene. It is a family friendly, creative, cohesive and supportive rural village, committed to working together for the benefit of all.

Unique Green Vital

Bauple is an enchanting, picturesque community that is the original home of the Macadamia Nut.

Bauple is committed to preserving its unique natural environment, rich in diverse fauna and flora.

Bauple is a progressive, coordinated community that is a quietly prosperous, self sufficient hub of opportunity.

Goals - Key Themes

Retain
Village atmosphere Peace and quiet Environment

Gain

Better access to services Economic development/greater opportunity

Create

More recognition of value of environment Employment/economic development

Change

Attitude toward Bauple/positive promotion

Goals - Suggestions for action

Bauple Spirit
There was strong emphasis and collective agreement that residents valued the village lifestyle and friendly atmosphere. Comments and discussion reflected a desire to retain and further develop Bauples uniqueness and community spirit through Promoting community pride and the belief that Bauple is unique and worthwhile Providing opportunities for social interaction Promoting active community involvement and greater participation in group meetings Promoting co-operation of all Bauple community committees Accessing support for community groups Developing own community services ie local community groups Learning from one another (eg upskilling at community shed) Ensuring land development aligns with village values (ie no small allotments)

Social Infrastructure
Social infrastructure and access to services dominated much discussion about what was needed in Bauple.

Roads Access, Maintenance and Public Safety

Road conditions and access are a priority concern for Bauple residents who identify that the quality and accessibility of local roads impacts on public safety and the capacity of the community for economic development through attracting visitors and new residents.

Most significant access & safety issues

1. A single access road into Forest View Estate was considered to compromise public safety in an emergency (such as fire, severe storm or flood) 2. Develop Forestry Road to Old Maryborough Road to provide an alternate route from the Bruce Highway to the Coast. This would increase Bauples tourism potential and capacity to attract new residents (due to improved access to coastal towns) 3. The northern exit off the Bruce Highway into Bauple (see picture below) was described as a black spot and highly dangerous.especially with trucks behind you

Other road safety/building/maintenance issues

Improve general road condition for two way traffic (wider, sealed roads) Redevelop the school car park Upgrade bridges Rebuild Bauple Drive from Bruce Highway to Bruce Highway Sealed road along Molteno Road Open gazetted roads to provide access to the Bruce Highway via Stottenville, Molteno &/or Connors Roads.

Lobbying Council and the Department of Main Roads to implement action in response to residents concerns and priorities for local road work is one option for community action. Current road works planned by Council can be downloaded from Councils website at www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/web/guest/roads Safety concerns regarding the highway can be directed to: Attention: Manager (Corridor Management and Operations) The Department of Transport and Main Roads Locked Bag 486 Bundaberg Qld 4670 Ph: 4154 0200 Road resurfacing costs in the vicinity of $250 000 per kilometer. Building new roads is substantially more expensive. Small rural communities typically have difficulty attracting the resources necessary for expensive infrastructure, simply because they lack the population size to attract large investments. Lobbying public bodies for resources and then undertaking road works is a long term undertaking. Therefore, other options for improving public safety in the short term were also discussed. Suggestions for action included 1. Develop disaster management plan 2. Road safety community education program 3. Revise speed limits 4. Traffic count on local roads, especially during cane season The Tiaro Police District Consultative Committee meets quarterly, rotating their meetings across the region. This Committee is an ideal avenue for raising road safety concerns, exploring options for implementing road safety community education programs and/or revising local speed limits. Cr Linda Harris is the current Chair of the committee. Cr Harris may be contacted on Mobile: 0417 711 993 Email: linda.harris@frasercoast.qld.gov.au

Disaster Management Planning

Concerns were raised that in an emergency (such as fire, severe storm or flood) public safety could be compromised for Forest View residents as there is only one access road. In addition to lobbying for road development, it was also identified that developing a disaster management plan identifying evacuation strategies for residents, assembly points and providing a clear map showing alternate emergency exit routes (via forestry roads or through the Macadamia Farm). This would benefit residents, Council and Emergency Services. Steps for action suggested 1. Approach Council and Emergency Services to discover if they have anything in the pipeline with planning for disasters 2. Identify a time frame for entire process 3. Lock in a meeting with residents, stakeholders, manager of road dept within the Council 4. Have Council reps go on a field trip to see first hand the concerns 5. Continue to facilitate liaison with Council and residents

Residents in areas at risk of fire need to be self reliant to ensure their safety from bushfire. If you live or work in an at risk area, you need to develop a practical Bushfire Survival Plan and be prepared. (Qld Rural Fire Service, 2010)

Qld Rural Fire Service

Neighbourhood Safer Place The Queensland Fire & Rescue Service recommend that people who live in bushfire prone areas have a personal Bushfire Safety Plan (BSP) which includes the use of a Neighbourhood Safer Place (NSP) as a last resort. An NSP is a local open space or building where people may gather, as a last resort, to seek shelter from a bushfire. (See Qld Rural Fire Service website for more information and resources www.ruralfire.qld.gov.au/Fire%20Safety%20and%20You/Neighbourhood%20 Safer%20Places/) Community Meetings and Information Sessions Community meetings are planned across the State with the aim of raising peoples awareness of their bushfire risk, and to work with residents to turn awareness into action. The Queensland Fire and Rescue Service and the Rural Fire Service deliver community and school presentations and information sessions. RFS Volunteer Community Educators and other brigade members work with their local communities to help them understand the local risk, and how they can help prepare to protect themselves in case of a bushfire. To organise a community or school presentation near you, or to find out when and where the next community meeting is in your area, contact your local brigade through your local Rural Operations Area Office 98 Lennox Street MARYBOROUGH QLD 4650 Ph: 4190 4839. (Source: www.ruralfire.qld.gov.au/Fire%20Safety%20and%20You/Community_Presentations/)

Council & Dsaster Management Planning

Local governments have responsibilities for disaster management under the Disaster Management Act 2003. As such Fraser Coast Regional Council works closely with the Fraser Coast Local Disaster Management Group comprising key agencies and stakeholders required to provide an appropriate and effective response. The group is a decision making body and has the ability to call on specialists for advice as required. Fraser Coast Regional Council emergency management resources and disaster management plans can be downloaded from Councils website at www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/web/guest/emergency-services These plans will be updated in 2010. Chris Vakas is the Disaster Planning Coordinator for Fraser Coast Regional Council. Chris is keen to support Bauple and Forest View residents to develop a localized disaster management plan. Chris may be contacted on Phone: 07 4197 4652 Mobile: 0428 185 444 Email: chris.vakas@frasercoast.qld.gov.au

Health and Medical Services

Tiaro Medical Centre
Establishing a medical centre and chemist in the inland area is a priority issue that attracts broad and emphatic support. At the time of the workshop, Fraser Coast Regional Council was awaiting the outcome a federal funding submission to establish a Medical Centre in Tiaro. The submission was subsequently successful and the Medical Centre will be established.

Support for Seniors

An aging population and isolation were raised as challenges for Bauple community. Access to in-home support services and public transport (especially to access medical treatment) can directly influence the capacity of senior residents in small rural communities to remain in the local community where they have established relationships. In-home support programs (such as Home Assist) also create local employment opportunities.

Emergency First Aid Response/Ambulance

Also identified was the need for an Ambulance service and/or first aid post between Gympie and Maryborough. Concern was raised that when the Bruce Highway Gympie bypass is complete, the high accident rate (currently experienced between Cooroy and Gympie) will be experienced between Glenwood and Maryborough. First Responders are honorary ambulance officers located in specific rural, remote and isolated communities across Queensland. They attend local accident and medical emergencies to provide life saving first aid treatment until the arrival of advanced medical care. Volunteers are trained in advanced first aid, advanced resuscitation with oxygen therapy and automatic external defibrillation. A first responder may be required to provide cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), defibrillate a patient or simply comfort and reassure them until advanced medical care arrives. To find out more go to www.ambulance.qld.gov.au/volunteer/first_responders.asp.

Technology

The need for improved access to communications technology (specifically access to broad band, high speed ADSL, mobile phone and a digital tower for TV) was emphasised. Areas in and around Bauple do not have reliable access to mobile phone, internet reception and/ or TV. Limited access to communication technology adversely impacts on the communitys capacity to attract and/or retain new residents and businesses. Poor internet access adversely impacts the communitys capacity to keep up with communication technologies commonly accepted as integral in modern life. Council could support Bauple community by lobbying government to improve regional access to technology. Public access to the internet is available at the Museum, the school and/or Mens Shed.

Postal Services

It was suggested that a full service Post Office was required in Bauple. Ideally postal services should include bill paying/banking, mail delivery in Bauple and a post box at Forest View. Macadamia House identified they are currently applying to upgrade to a licensed post office with full bill paying facilities.

Public transport

The need to provide reliable public transport to Gympie and Maryborough was identified. Suggestions included Greyhound to detour off highway and go through Bauple Local courtesy bus Regular local bus service Connections to rail/coaches Access to transport for medical reasons was considered an issue of concern especially for senior residents who often cant/dont drive anymore. The biggest barrier to providing public transport to meet the needs of residents in small rural communities is invariably that there is insufficient patronage to be able to manage a viable service (for small populations over large distances) at affordable prices for consumers. Government agencies must reflect adequate usage to be able justify the use of public money spent in subsidise service delivery costs. It was suggested there are existing options that residents may be unaware of.

St Johns Ambulance

St Johns Ambulance run a transport service for HACC eligible people. Transport services include a fortnightly shoppers service (in pension week) at $20 (return) per person. This rate could be further reduced if there was a larger number of people accessing the service. St Johns also offer a one-on-one transport service on request. These services are currently under-utilised by Bauple residents. For more information, contact Julie Norquay at St Johns Ambulance, Maryborough, by telephone on 4121 4877. HACC eligibility criteria People of any age may be eligible for HACC services, if they: 1. live in the community 2. have difficulty in performing everyday tasks without help because of a disability, and 3. may require admission to long term residential care without assistance from HACC also assists carers of the above.

The Powerhouse Community Vehicle

The Powerhouse Community Centre has a community vehicle that can be accessed at very low rates to non-profit and community organisations, offering transport for a variety of needs. A community group could utilise this vehicle to meet local transport needs for residents that dont meet HACC eligibility criteria. Contact Kevin Roe at the Powerhouse on Phone 07 4129 3227 or 040 5764 205 Fax: (07) 41221980 Please mark to the attention of Kevin Roe Email: jokev@thepowerhouse.org.au

Youth

There was agreement that young people are valued in Bauple and the adult community would like to implement strategies to encourage young people to stay in the local area. A separate discussion was facilitated in June with young people, parents and the School P & C to specifically explore the needs and interests of Bauple young people. Main areas of concern included Nothing for young people to do in Bauple Lack of transport options Nothing in Brian Talman Park for young people who live in Forest View Estate No bike tracks to ride push bikes, scooters

Suggestions primarily focused on youth recreation and the need to create local employment opportunities to offer young people a reason to stay in the area. Suggestions for youth recreation included Skate Bowl/Park Parks suitable for children and young people More activities for children and young people Youth activity area BMX track Patrice Bates was appointed as Youth Services Officer in July 2010. Patrice is undertaking a process of working with community groups and individuals to develop and implement strategies for addressing the needs of young people living in Maryborough and the Southern Fraser Coast. Patrice can be contacted via Phone: 4190 5806 Email: patrice.bates@frasercoast.qld.gov.au

Sport facilities

The need for sporting facilities was identified. Although there was one comment on the need for a sports field in Bauple, there were a number of comments in relation to the need for a swimming pool based in the inland area. It was suggested that Bauple would be the ideal location (in preference to Tiaro) because the Bauple school has the largest population and is central in relation to other inland towns. A public swimming pool would not only provide access to recreational activities for children, but also offers potential for saving lives by enabling children to learn to swim.

Other social infrastructure gaps

Discussion about social infrastructure also identified the following as wants or needs for Bauple community Services for seniors Improved electricity supply Local high school (+ 2 years) Better policing A licensed social club After school care Child care Bike tracks Public toilets Access to full community or government services equal to Maryborough

Economic Development

In many places, local energy and creativity become trapped, and different parts of the economy - local businesses, voluntary sector agencies, and the public sector - do not talk to each other to maximise local opportunities. For the local economy to undergo durable and robust change, the capability and energy of everybody needs to be harnessed. (New Economics Foundation 2008 - Plugging the Leaks) Large group discussion in the first workshop indicated general agreement that there was a need for a planned approach to local economic development to build a sustainable and viable local economy through increase local business and employment opportunities. It was emphasized that such a strategy should simultaneously capitalize on and preserve the small village atmosphere. There appeared to be significant support for encouraging eco-tourism to the area, including suggestions of developing an environmental education/research and koala release centre in Bauple that built on and promoted the villages strong environmental values. There also appeared to be a general consensus that Bauple community could and should be more widely promoted. Generally, comments reflected a desire for increased convenience through greater local access to services based such as more retail outlets; a wider range of locally available services such as full postal services; improved access to technology; and improved road access. Some participants advocated strategies to increase local tourist trade and promote the tree change potential of the area, reflecting that Bauple could be a Fraser Coast Eumundi or Maleny. Conversely, other participants argued that Bauple should remain unchanged with Tiaro being developed as a services hub. Bauple-based business owners identified that local support is essential if businesses are to remain viable. A document distributed by Macadamia House owner/ operators outlined the improvements to local service delivery undertaken by the business over the previous two years (including a pending application for upgrading to a licensed post office with bill pay facilities) and identified the future sustainability of the business would be reviewed in early 2011. The New Economics Foundation (NEF) developed Plugging the Leaks is a toolkit for local economic development as if people and the planet mattered. This approach to economic development is based on the assumption that people who live and work in a place, and others who care about its future, are best positioned to find enterprising solutions, implement them and reap the rewards and works to re-generate the local economy by taking advantage of the resources that a community already possesses. (Source: New Economics Foundation 2008 - Plugging the Leaks www.pluggingtheleaks.org/about/index.htm)

The Plugging the Leaks model of economic development uses a leaky bucket as a metaphor for local economies, showing cash flowing into and out of the local economy. Just as a dollar saved has more real value than a new dollar earned, money that is respent withinin a local economy has more real value than attracting the same amount as new money. Therefore the concept of plugging the leaks spending money outside the community, to increase the number of times money changes hands locally, to strengthen the local economy. NEF argues that there is economic (as well as social) value to be gained from strengthening the linkages within a community and/or valuing residents skills (eg volunteering) and passions (eg recycling). They also suggest that traditional approaches to economic development focus on increasing cash inflows into a community (pouring more resources into a leaky bucket). But this has minimum long-term impact if the wealth flows straight out again because there is nothing to hold it in the area. Goods and services from small local holdings are typically more expensive than those that available from large supermarkets or online. However, local businesses are more likely to employ local people; buy local produce; provide services of convenience to improve the quality of life; spend money locally or support local events and organisations. The Plugging the Leaks handbook is available from www.pluggingtheleaks.org/downloads/ptl_handbook.pdf

Promotion

More effective and widespread promotion of Bauple and Southern Fraser Coast was considered essential if Bauple was to attract residents, businesses and tourists. Promoting Bauple as a family friendly community and developing a sustainable community for attracting tree change residents was discussed. Existing community features/traits/assets that could be promoted include What a great place and look what we have to offer (eg Bauple nut, museum, school, mens shed, band hall, recreation club, town supermarket and service station, churches) Cheap land Tree-change benefits of living in Wide Bay rural (naturalness and clean living) Bauples unique history as the true home of the Macadamia. Bauple Museum and grounds - which feature a BBQ and park. Farm stays and tours/rural industries (eg cane, timber, nuts) Environment

Suggested strategies Positive articles in the media Produce friendly tourist map for staycations/free camp areas Advertising in Camp & Wanderer magazines Government web sites to promote local attractions Signage on highway (north and south) showing Bauple by-pass off main corridor Council is undertaking a program of installing entrance signs (depicting local icons) at town entrances across the Fraser Coast. Councils Marketing and Tourism officers will promote consultation opportunities for interested residents to preview the sign design and have input into the most suitable location. The Department of Transport and Main Roads is reviewing signage on the Bruce Highway south of Tiaro. The aim of the review is to determine whether there is a warrant for highway signage advising motorists of rest areas and other facilities in Bauple. Highway signage issues can be raised with Manager Corridor Management and Operations The Department of Transport and Main Roads Locked Bag 486 Bundaberg Qld 4670 Phone: 4154 0200 Promoting Bauple on existing tourism related websites on the internet offers a no or low cost and effective strategy. Examples of existing sites include:www.ourtiaro.com/bauple.htm www.totaltravel.com.au/travel/qld/frasercoast/herveybay/travel-guides/destinations/bauple www.frasercoastholidays.info/places_to_visit/country-treasures/bauple.cfm

Tourism
Tourism offers rural and regional areas an alternative employment and income source to traditional rural and mining industries. (Qld Ecotourism Plan, 2003:6) Proactively encouraging greater tourist trade to Bauple was discussed as one way to support local businesses and build the local economy. Suggestions for increasing tourism potential included Grey nomads and RVs could be encouraged to detour into Bauple through the development and promotion of a free camping area with full amenities (including a dump point). Creation of craft industries (artists collective/gallery; public art/exhibition music festival) Access to and walking tracks/look out on Mt Bauple Improved access to the Mary River Licensed recreation (eg hotel/sporting club)

Planning regulations

It was suggested that Bauples capacity to attract business investment and new residents was adversely impacted by poor access to communication technologies; lack of social infrastructure; poor signage; poor access roads; and Councils development approvals processes. Recommendations 1. Planning regulations should relax restrictions on establishing retail business that are less relevant in small communities. For example the requirement for retail outlets to provide parking eight vehicles 2. Increase commercial zoning 3. Speed up development approval process 4. Introduce government/Council incentives to encourage businesses to move to Bauple 5. Preserve the large residential blocks in town. Large blocks contribute to the village atmosphere that is highly valued by residents.

Environment

Bauple is in Great Sandy Biosphere and surrounded by state forests and national parks, so it is understandable that residents voice strong environmental values. It was identified that this area is home to at least three endangered species. The natural environment, flora and fauna was considered a key asset of the community that should be promoted and preserved. This was a unifying theme that elicted strong support from across the community. It was agreed that local economic development should both protect and promote the natural environment. Suggestions for action included Develop a flora and fauna centre for preserving and promoting green areas and providing local employment Establish Bauple as a release point and sanctuary for koalas Establish an environmental education camp for young people Establish a Richmond Birdwing Butterfly Park Establish a tertiary level flora and fauna research centre Establish protected wildlife corridors The value of native environment needs to be recognised Remove weeds and replace with endemic species Council to green areas through community re-planting Work to preserve local endangered species Improving wildlife/conservation awareness

Ecotourism

Ecotourism is Nature-based tourism that involves education and interpretation of the natural environment and is managed to be ecologically sustainable (Tourism Qld 1999:2 - Grow Your Ecotourism Business Vol 1) Developing an eco-tourism industry has potential to unite Bauple community and progress towards a variety of community goals - such as increased community cohesion; positive promotion; protecting the natural environment; stimulating economic development and increasing the communitys capacity to attract tourists. The first step in this process would be to gain funding to employ an experienced environmental/business consultant that could work with Bauple community to develop the concept, undertake market research and write a business plan. This would provide the community with the tools necessary to attract investors and gain government support for the project.

The Community Environment Program (CEP)

CEP Provides opportunities for residents to actively participate in on-ground maintenance and management activities of bushland and open spaces as well as environmental awareness programs including events and education. The scope of works possible via the CEP range from individual management agreements where an adjoining owner carries out on ground management activities, right through to incorporated bodies implementing coordinated long term restoration projects. In kind support to events and educational programs are also supported by CEP. More information is available on Councils website at www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/web/guest/community-environment-program or by contacting Tony van Kampen, Principal Officer, Natural Resource Management, Fraser Coast Regional Council. Ph: 4197 4635

Land use planning and environmental protection

Wildlife corridor
There was strong support for lobbying Council to establish a wild life corridor from Noosa to Maryborough. It was argued that habitat destruction in the South East Queensland corner is such that the future viability of wild Koala populations are threatened as far north as Noosa. The Fraser Coast is in an ideal situation to stop the northward destruction of native koala populations. This region has existing large tracts of crown land in the form of national parks, native forest reserves and state forest. As such, there are large tracts of connected land with limited or no human population, roads and domestic animals. As such there is an existing open range area with mostly native forests suitable for native fauna that needs to be proactively preserved to ensure a connected wildlife corridor through the region. Council collects a small Environmental Levy from ratepayers. Previously this levy has been used for land purchases to preserve key natural environments. Land at Forest View has been assessed and placed on the list for consideration when decisions are made to purchase land using levy money. The Environmental Levy program is currently under review.

Land Use Bi-laws

There was concern voiced about uncontrolled land clearing on freehold property. It was suggested that Council should issue vegetation management bi-laws to prevent over clearing and destruction of natural environment on free hold land, maximizing the benefits associated with developing a wildlife corridor through the region. Bauple residents first raised concerns about excessive vegetation clearing to Council in 2009. Fraser Coast Regional Council is currently operating according to the planning schemes in place prior to amalgamation. These planning schemes will be incorporated into a single planning scheme for Fraser Coast by 2011. The former Tiaro Shire Council Planning Scheme does not address vegetation or ecological protection. On the 9th of June, 2010, Councils Planning and Development Committee endorsed a Temporary Local Planning Instrument (TPLI) for vegetation and ecological protection and resolved to forward a copy to the Minister for endorsement. If endorsed by the Minister, Council will undertake a community education program to ensure landholders are familiar with any changes in regulations relating to land clearing.

Relationship with Council

After the 2008 Local Government Election, the Councils of Hervey Bay City, Maryborough City, Tiaro Shire (Divisions 1 and 2) and Woocoo Shire were amalgamated to form the Fraser Coast Regional Council. (Fraser Coast Regional Council Annual Report 2008-2009)

Areas of dissatisfaction

Participants voiced dissatisfaction with the relationship between Fraser Coast Regional Council and Bauple community. There was a strong sense that there is a need to improve Councils attitude to hinterland and regional areas and the manner of communication between Council and small rural communities in the Southern Fraser Coast. Comments reflected concerns that Councils focus is on Hervey Bay and that Bauple is disadvantaged by its remoteness from Councils administrative centre (based in Hervey Bay). This was aggravated by a perception that Council staff dont even know where Bauple is. A lack of an identifiable local government presence was linked to a sense of reduced access to Councils services and inadequate local representation. It was suggested that Council only seems to do things once a complaint has been made to the state member or when residents complained repeatedly to individual Councillors and/or staff. There was also a high level of dissatisfaction with the communication between Council and Bauple community. Comments focused on the difficulties experienced when attempting to access appropriate Council staff; a perceived lack of information from Council to the community; and inadequate community consultation. Workshop participants expressed dissatisfaction with having their enquiries responded to by Council staff. Participants understood that there are multiple departments, but felt that when they rang Council they got the run-around from one place to the next and nobody gets back to them. It was generally felt that when an issue wasnt a local government responsibility, Council should assist residents in accessing the appropriate state or commonwealth government department. There was a strong sense that the information flow from Council to Bauple community needed to be improved. Bauple residents do not have the Herald home delivered and internet access is poor or non-existent in this area. Therefore, media releases to the Herald or information posted on Councils website is not easily accessible to Bauple residents. Council would be more effective in communicating with Bauple residents through the Bauple Bulletin or putting fliers up on the notice board at Macadamia House. As a consequence of this issue being raised, Council has subsequently implemented a process of submitting all media releases to the Bauple Bulletin.

Workshop participants agreed that there is a lack of meaningful consultation with the community before Council funds are committed to local area projects. The example offered was the Turtle statue proposed for Tiaro. Residents felt they were only approached for design input at the point of implementing the project, rather than at the concept development stage of deciding whether or not this was a priority project local residents wanted Council to pursue. There was also a sense that Council keeps changing their minds on projects due to budget restraints. For example, each year for three years a road was earmarked for sealing, but has never happened.

Actions for Council

Participants suggested that Council could improve its relationship with the Bauple community by A commitment to ongoing, open and honest communication A commitment to consultation that engages the community in planning and decision making processes Establishing a shop front so Councilors and Council staff can get to know the community Acknowledge the issues and concerns raised by the community Provide information to the community about future plans Inform the community when forecasted projects have been shelved Community Engagement refers to the connections between governments, citizens and communities on a wide range of policy, program and service issues. (LGAQ, 2010 www.lgaq.asn.au/web/ guest/community-engagement)

Councils Community Engagement Policy

In 2010, Fraser Coast Regional Council formally adopted a Community Engagement Policy that details Councils commitment to how it will undertake Community Engagement. The policy identifies that Council is committed to engaging the community in order to make decisions that best meet community needs and expectations. It will do this by listening to, collecting information from, conferring with and taking into account the communitys ideas. However a central principle of Councils Community Engagement Framework is that the responsibility for decision making rests with the elected body of Council. The policy can be downloaded from Councils website at www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/web/guest/ council-policies

Councils Communication Strategies

Councils quarterly publication Fraser Coast Living is distributed to all households across the region. The newsletter aims to keep you informed about Councils services, activities and projects and provides you with opportunities to have your say. If you have not received the last issue of Fraser Coast Living, please contact Councils Corporate Communications Unit by email or telephone 1300 79 49 29. Newsletters can also been downloaded from www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/ web/guest/newsletters Residents with email access can register to receive the latest Council news via email at www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/web/guest/register-for-enews

Actions for Bauple Community

United voice
There was a strong consensus among participants at the conclusion of the second workshop that Bauple community needs a vehicle for creating a unified community voice to show support for causes and to establish credibility with Council. Suggestions included Establish a Progress Association or a Ratepayers and Residents Organisation for delivering a community voice for Bauple Specific representation for Bauple through single spokeperson from local groups like museum, P & C Association, Band Hall Committee, CWA, Mens Shed, school, Rosendale tennis club Small towns to work together as a Hinterland to create a unified plan/voice (ie larger number of voters!)

Communication strategies

Communication strategies suggested by participants included Agree on time line (corporate plans) Must have point of contact/email Realistic requests Open & honest communication both ways Face to face meetings with Council representatives Advertise region to Council & community Tell Council what we have here & how wed like it improved for community Bauple community approach Council with requests * for a commitment to ongoing community consultation with the community * to consult before committing funds * to Listen to feedback from this meeting * all views from this meeting be documented and incorporated into Council strategic plan/operational plan/budget

Principles of effective advocacy include

The process of framing the following questions & finding answers to them facilitates the development an advocacy strategy. The process will also enable you to assess the context of a planned advocacy campaign, including the external and internal environments. Clearly define goals and obtainable objectives (what do you want to change?) Identify potential supporters and opponents (who can effect or prevent the change?) Develop persuasive messages (what will convince them to make the change?) Mobilize people and resources for action (what do you do to persuade them?) (Source: QCOSS advocacy kit downloaded from www.qcoss.org.au/upload/4949__QCOSS%20Advocacy%20Kit%20Feb%202010.pdf )

Questions & Comments for Council

(transcript from Graffiti sheet)

Local Promotion
Why is the hinterland only a corridor to Hervey Bay? We dont want to be poor cousin to Maryborough/Hervey Bay Why is council not promoting villages unique points Bauple Q150 icon, macadamia nut?

Social Infrastructure
With more rates cost should come better service Basic amenities needed to keep residents here and attract new people Basic facilities are required in EVERY town TV & Internet access/reception Medical centre Doctors surgery & Chemist Community Pool located in Tiaro or Bauple Bus service (state government subsidized Greyhound to service small communities along highway) Free camping at Bauple for Grey nomads Skate park/bowl for kids in Bauple Better policing (Tiaro Police hardly present in Tiaro) A shopping centre is warranted in this area Licensed club sporting or social

Environment
Excess land clearing removal Vegetation forest view Genuine measures to help the Mary/Murray A youth camp for educating young people in sustainable permaculture/aqua culture, sustainable energy, Bauple nuts etc and create employment

Roads
Exit strategy for bushfires Stottenville Road completion through to Molteno Road Southern access road to/from forest view estate Access routes to Bruce highway via Molteno rd &/r Connors road Tar sealing of Mackellar St Speeding on Mills Street & Stottenville Rd/speed limits generally Tar sealing of road from Bauple through to coast Why is Paine Road only tar sealed halfway?