Mrs Maddie Glynn1
1Barwon Coast Com. Inc, Barwon Heads, Australia
Abstract:
Barwon Coast Committee of Management Inc. (BCCM) is responsible for the management of 15Km of coastline on the Bellarine Peninsula in Victoria. This section of coastline includes Ocean Grove, Barwon River beaches and 13th Beach coast which all experience exceptionally high visitor numbers; Ocean Grove being recognised as one of the busiest ocean beaches in the state.
The BCCM initiative, Share Our Shores, commenced in 2017 to look at ways of how collectively we address ongoing issues of conflict along our coast whilst ensuring we continue to enhance our biodiversity values. This initiative is about equitable use of the coast through understanding respect, responsibilities and rights that are important in minimising conflict between different beach users.
To understand what the community was thinking BCCM engaged Federation University to undertake social science research. The research identified key areas of concern along the Barwon coastline being dog’s off-leash, overcrowding, litter, sand dune damage and environmental impacts.
The Share our Shores campaign commenced with researching the issue of, and management options for dogs on beaches where there is high visitation and significant environmental values. Dogs on beaches are identified as a priority concern for both dog owners and non-dog owners. During 2018/19, the campaign has grown in partnership numbers, engagement methods, educative tools, and has commenced addressing the other areas of concern identified.
This presentation will showcase the achievements, challenges and new initiatives of the Share Our Shores campaign, and how collectively we can create change.
Biography:
Maddie Glynn is the Manager Community Liaison and Education with Barwon Coast Committee of Management.
Maddie has extensive environmental experience from field maintenance, fisheries, education, coastal planning and wildlife rehabilitation.
In her current role, Maddie continues to identify areas of growth and strengthen relationships with all coastal users as opportunities arise to ensure our biodiversity values are protected.