Agenda of Coast and ICOLL Advisory Committee Meeting

CONFLICT OF INTERESTS

What is a “Conflict of Interests” - A conflict of interests can be of two types:

Pecuniary - an interest that a person has in a matter because of a reasonable likelihood or expectation of appreciable financial gain or loss to the person or another person with whom the person is associated.

Non-pecuniary – a private or personal interest that a Council official has that does not amount to a pecuniary interest as defined in the Code of Conduct for Councillors (eg. A friendship, membership of an association, society or trade union or involvement or interest in an activity and may include an interest of a financial nature).

Remoteness – a person does not have a pecuniary interest in a matter if the interest is so remote or insignificant that it could not reasonably be regarded as likely to influence any decision the person might make in relation to a matter or if the interest is of a kind specified in the Code of Conduct for Councillors.

Who has a Pecuniary Interest? - a person has a pecuniary interest in a matter if the pecuniary interest is the interest of the person, or another person with whom the person is associated (see below).

Relatives, Partners - a person is taken to have a pecuniary interest in a matter if:

· The person’s spouse or de facto partner or a relative of the person has a pecuniary interest in the matter, or

· The person, or a nominee, partners or employer of the person, is a member of a company or other body that has a pecuniary interest in the matter.

N.B. “Relative”, in relation to a person means any of the following:

(a) the parent, grandparent, brother, sister, uncle, aunt, nephew, niece, lineal descends or adopted child of the person or of the person’s spouse;

(b) the spouse or de facto partners of the person or of a person referred to in paragraph (a)

No Interest in the Matter - however, a person is not taken to have a pecuniary interest in a matter:

· If the person is unaware of the relevant pecuniary interest of the spouse, de facto partner, relative or company or other body, or

· Just because the person is a member of, or is employed by, the Council.

· Just because the person is a member of, or a delegate of the Council to, a company or other body that has a pecuniary interest in the matter provided that the person has no beneficial interest in any shares of the company or body.

Disclosure and participation in meetings

· A Councillor or a member of a Council Committee who has a pecuniary interest in any matter with which the Council is concerned and who is present at a meeting of the Council or Committee at which the matter is being considered must disclose the nature of the interest to the meeting as soon as practicable.

· The Councillor or member must not be present at, or in sight of, the meeting of the Council or Committee:

(a) at any time during which the matter is being considered or discussed by the Council or Committee, or

(b) at any time during which the Council or Committee is voting on any question in relation to the matter.

No Knowledge - a person does not breach this Clause if the person did not know and could not reasonably be expected to have known that the matter under consideration at the meeting was a matter in which he or she had a pecuniary interest.

Non-pecuniary Interests - Must be disclosed in meetings.

There are a broad range of options available for managing conflicts & the option chosen will depend on an assessment of the circumstances of the matter, the nature of the interest and the significance of the issue being dealt with. Non-pecuniary conflicts of interests must be dealt with in at least one of the following ways:

· It may be appropriate that no action be taken where the potential for conflict is minimal. However, Councillors should consider providing an explanation of why they consider a conflict does not exist.

· Limit involvement if practical (eg. Participate in discussion but not in decision making or vice-versa). Care needs to be taken when exercising this option.

· Remove the source of the conflict (eg. Relinquishing or divesting the personal interest that creates the conflict)

· Have no involvement by absenting yourself from and not taking part in any debate or voting on the issue as of the provisions in the Code of Conduct (particularly if you have a significant non-pecuniary interest)

Committee members are reminded that they should declare and manage all conflicts of interest in respect of any matter on this Agenda, in accordance with the Code of Conduct.

RECORDING OF VOTING ON PLANNING MATTERS

Clause 375A of the Local Government Act 1993 – Recording of voting on planning matters

(1) In this section, planning decision means a decision made in the exercise of a function of a council under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979:

(a) including a decision relating to a development application, an environmental planning instrument, a development control plan or a development contribution plan under that Act, but

(b) not including the making of an order under that Act.

(2) The general manager is required to keep a register containing, for each planning decision made at a meeting of the council or a council committee, the names of the councillors who supported the decision and the names of any councillors who opposed (or are taken to have opposed) the decision.

(3) For the purpose of maintaining the register, a division is required to be called whenever a motion for a planning decision is put at a meeting of the council or a council committee.

(4) Each decision recorded in the register is to be described in the register or identified in a manner that enables the description to be obtained from another publicly available document and is to include the information required by the regulations.

(5) This section extends to a meeting that is closed to the public.

OATH AND AFFIRMATION FOR COUNCILLORS

Councillors are reminded of the oath of office or affirmation of office made at or before their first meeting of the council in accordance with Clause 233A of the Local Government Act 1993. This includes undertaking the duties of the office of councillor in the best interests of the people of Byron Shire and the Byron Shire Council and faithfully and impartially carrying out the functions, powers, authorities and discretions vested under the Act or any other Act to the best of one’s ability and judgment.

BYRON SHIRE COUNCIL

Staff Reports - Corporate and Community Services 4.1

Staff Reports - Corporate and Community Services

Report No. 4.1 Integrated Planning and Reporting

Directorate: Corporate and Community Services

Report Author: Amber Evans Crane, Corporate Planning and Improvement Coordinator

File No: I2025/224

Summary:

This report provides an overview of Council’s Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework and priority areas for inclusion in Council’s delivery program.

RECOMMENDATION:

That the Coast and ICOLL Advisory Committee:

1. Notes Council’s Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework;

2. Notes Council’s priorities as identified by Councillors for the 2025 – 2029 Delivery Program.

Background to Integrative Planning and Reporting (IP&R)

The Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework in NSW requires all councils to adopt a suite of strategic plans. These long-term plans provide transparency and make it possible for Council to plan in a manner which ensures that community needs and priorities are responded to well into the future. Council also has a suite of strategies, plans and policies which help inform operations and decision making, and these policies are adhered to in alignment with the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework.

For example, the Towards Zero Integrated Waste Strategy 2019 -2029 has been developed to integrate within this framework to ensure cohesive efforts towards community goals and aspirations.

The central IP&R documents are outlined in more detail:

10 Year Community Strategic Plan

Leading the Council’s planning hierarchy, the Community Strategic Plan (CSP) captures the community’s vision, aspirations, and expectations for the future. It identifies key social, economic, and environmental priorities and long term strategies to achieve these goals over the next 10 years.

The CSP outlines the vision, community objectives and supporting strategies which will guide Council’s long-term decision making. Robust engagement with the community about their desires and expectations has guided the long-term future planning to meet the needs and aspirations of the community.

10 Year Resourcing Strategy

The resourcing strategy addresses the sustainable long term financial, asset management, and workforce planning requirements. This is the point where Council assists the community by sorting out who is responsible for what, in terms of the issues identified in the Community Strategic Plan.

4 Year Delivery Program

The delivery program translates the community strategic plan goals into actions. It is Council’s commitment to the community, outlining what it intends to do toward achieving the goals of the community strategic plan during its term of office. The Delivery Program is the single point of reference for all principal activities undertaken by Council. All plans, projects, activities, and funding allocations must be directly linked to the four-year delivery program.

Annual Operational Plan

The Delivery Program is supported by an annual Operational Plan which details the individual projects and activities that will be undertaken each year to achieve the commitments of the Delivery Program. The Operational Plan is supported by a detailed budget and a statement of revenue policy, which also sets the fees and charges for that year.

IP&R documents and 4-year Councillor priorities

The key IP&R documents described in the Background section are in the process of review as is the requirement following a local government election.

The current Community Strategic Plan (CSP) 2032 has been reviewed and the next iteration, the CSP 2035, was placed on public exhibition at the 28 November 2024 Ordinary Council meeting with submissions open until 9 February 2025. The revised CSP will be presented back to Council for adoption in April 2025. The draft can be found on Council’s website at www.byron.nsw.gov.au/communityplan.

Adjacent to this, the Delivery Program 2025 – 2029 and Operational Plan 2025/26 are being developed. Both documents will be presented to Council in April 2025 and placed on public exhibition for public feedback.

The four-year priorities recently identified by Councillors for inclusion in the Delivery Plan 2025-2029 that relate to the Committee include coastal management and catchment and riparian health.

Strategic Considerations

Community Strategic Plan and Operational Plan

CSP Objective	CSP Strategy	DP Action	Code	OP Activity
1: Effective Leadership	1.1: Enhance trust and accountability through open and transparent leadership	1.1.4: Performance Measurement and Reporting - Embed a robust performance management system through the development of an outcomes measurement framework	1.1.4.4	Prepare the 2025-2029 Delivery Program

Statutory Considerations

Integrated Planning and Reporting is governed by:

· ‘Local Government Act 1993’.

· ‘Local Government (General) Regulation 2021’.

· Integrated Planning and Reporting Guidelines for Local Government in NSW’: outlines the statutory planning and reporting requirements that councils, county councils and joint organisations must meet.

BYRON SHIRE COUNCIL

For Information Only 6.1

For Information Only

Report No. 6.1 Update on Coast and Estuary Projects and the Development of Coastal Management Programs (CMPs) for the Byron Shire Coastline

Directorate: Sustainable Environment and Economy

Report Author: Chloe Dowsett, Biodiversity and Sustainability Coordinator

Orla Seccull, Coastal & Estuary Officer

File No: I2025/298

Summary:

This report provides the Coast and ICOLL Advisory Committee members a 3-monthly brief update on coast and estuary projects and progress of the development of Coastal Management Programs (CMPs) for the Byron Shire coastline.

This is the first update to the Coast and ICOLL Advisory Committee for 2025.

Overview

This report provides the Coast and ICOLL Advisory Committee members the first of a 3-monthly brief update on the update of coast and estuary project and progress of the development of Coastal Management Programs (CMPs) for the Byron Shire coastline.

Development of Coastal Management Programs

Council is progressing with developing Coastal Management Programs (CMPs) for Byron Shire in accordance with the NSW Coastal Management Framework. An update on Council’ progress to date in developing these CMP’s can be found here.

The forward development of CMPs for Byron Shire is broken down into distinct geographical areas to:

· better reflect the unique coastal values and threats of each area,

· allow for more refined/targeted community engagement and stakeholder consultation

· reduce the timeframe associated with developing a CMP for lower risk/less complex areas (such as the Tallow Creek estuary), and

· increase the possibility of obtaining a certified CMP for part of the Shire’s coastal zone.

There are three CMPs currently in progress:

1. CMP for the Byron Shire Open Coast (Shire-Wide) – includes the entire Byron Shire open coast comprising beaches, headlands, dunes and the key urban areas of Suffolk Park, Byron Bay, New Brighton and South Golden Beach. The open coast has complex coastal management issues and high coastal hazard risks.

2. CMP for Tallow Estuary and catchment (including the Ti Tree Lake catchment) – includes estuary and catchment issues and actions.

3. CMP for Belongil Estuary and catchment – includes estuary and catchment issues and actions.

4. CMP for the Brunswick River Estuary to be commenced 2026 pending staff capacity and funding allocation.

Development of a CMP is a 4 staged process as outlined in Figure 1.

Figure 1 - CMP Stages

Two CMP Stage 1 Scoping Studies are complete which identify the context of the CMPs being prepared - values, threats and issues to the coastal zone, current management arrangements and information gaps. 7 Stage 2 studies are now complete that fill information or data gaps and assess and prioritise threats and risks to the coastal zone.

Council is currently in Stage 3 preparation of CMPs which includes the development and assessment of management actions for prioritised key threats /issues (i.e. unacceptable risks) along with opportunities (e.g. easy wins). This stage allows for stakeholders and the community to understand the costs, identification of funding mechanisms including potential cost-sharing arrangements and responsibilities for implementation of actions. Following the selection of management actions, Council will progress to the next stage of the CMP development process.

The subsequent stages in the process of developing and implementing the current CMP’s is:

· Stage 4 – Prepare, exhibit, finalise, adopt and seek Ministerial certification of each CMP. A CMP must be certified by the Minister to access funding for implementation under the Coast and Estuary Grants program; and

· Stage 5 – Implement, monitor, evaluate and report. Council’s actions are to be implemented through the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework, through the Delivery and Operational Plan.

A summary of the status of CMP studies and coast and estuary projects is provided below in Table 1. Projects are categorised as planning / investigation studies or on-ground / implementation projects.

Unless otherwise stated these projects have been partially funded by the project partner, the NSW Department of Environment, Energy, Climate Change and Water (DEECCW) through the Coast and Estuary Grants Program, with a funding ratio of 2 (DEECCW):1(Council).

Table 1: CMP studies and coast and estuary projects

Project Name	Brief Description	Status/ Expected Completion
Planning and Investigation Projects
Main Beach Shoreline Project (MBSP)	A design investigation for the modification of the coastal protection works at Main Beach, Byron Bay between the Surf Club and First Sun Holiday Park. The investigation looks at how we can best protect Byron Bay Town Centre from coastal erosion now and into the future. The three shortlisted options are: · Option 2 – Berm rock revetment and pathway. · Option 5 – Protective structure moved landward by 10m. · Option 7 – Existing structure upgraded to contemporary standards.	The information presented in MBSP studies provide the basis for further development and evaluation of the shortlisted options. Significant community consultation and engagement has been undertaken to identify options and shortlist the 3 preferred options for detailed evaluation. Detailed evaluation will be undertaken during Stage 3 of the Open Coast CMP using multicriteria analysis (MCA) of the three short-listed options with the objective of selecting a preferred option to carry forward and implement into the CMP actions in Stage 4. All studies completed as part of the project are provided on Council’s MBSP project webpage here.
Coastal Hazard Assessment (CHA) Study	The CHA Study (Bluecoast, 2023) is the third major investigation into coastal processes, sand movements and hazards in the Byron region following PWD’s investigation in the 1978 and BMT 2013 study. In line with the Coastal Management Act 2016 and Coastal Management Manual, a coastal hazard assessment was undertaken considering a range of specific coastal hazards. The study quantifies the coastal processes operating on the Byron Shire coastline and the nature and extent of exposure to coastal hazards and threats to public and private assets (both natural and built). A Byron coastal sand budget was developed (which maps historical sand volume changes) to understand the rates and directions of sand movements. Building on the coastal sand budget, coastal hazard assessments and analysis were undertaken to understand current and future risks to the coastal zone from hazards.	The outcomes of the CHA Study are essential to coastal planning and the preparation of CMPs. The study informs the detailed risk analysis undertaken in Stage 3 CMP preparation and is used to identify and evaluate management options and support decision making. The CHA Study was adopted by Council on 22 February 2024 (Res 24-035). The study is provided on Council’s webpage here.
Byron Shire Water Quality Source Tracking and Control Program for Belongil Creek, Tallow Creek and Ti-Tree Lake	Water pollution of the Tallow Creek and Belongil Creek estuaries from a variety of sources was identified as a key threat to coastal values as identified in the Scoping Study for the southern Byron shire coastline. Identifies risks associated with water pollution in Tallow and Belongil Creek catchments and identifies opportunities for improving water quality for further consideration at Stage 3.	Endorsed by Council 28 September 2023 (Res 23-441). The report is provided on the CMP webpage in the Document Library here.
Review of the Entrance Opening Strategies for Belongil and Tallow Creek estuaries - identifying risks to cultural and ecological values and low-lying assets associated with ICOLL entrance opening strategies	Aimed at advising on recommended amendments to the entrance opening strategies (EOS’) for Belongil Creek and Tallow Creek, along with undertaking the necessary supporting studies (i.e. literature review, engagement with Arakwal, case study for other NSW ICOLLs, assessment of nuisance flood risk in Tallow Creek, identification of improvements to decision support frameworks etc. Recommendations were provided for varying timeframes. Of particular note, any setting/changing of a trigger level for entrance management at Tallow Creek should be done through the floodplain risk management process during development of the updated flood study (presently underway).	Reported to Coast and ICOLL Committee May 2024. The report is provided on the CMP webpage in the Document Library here. Two-year review of Belongil EOS completed. Amendments to EOS drafted incorporating shorter-term recommendations and outcomes from the project. Two-year review and amended EOS reported to Council for endorsement 27 February 2025 (Res 25-056). Council to finalise amended EOS, renew entrance management permits and approvals. Longer term recommendations to be considered following receipt of additional information (clarification of Council’s role/responsibility, pending updated flood studies), or through the CMP process (e.g. local adaptation planning, study of fish ecology).
Shire-Wide Coastal Wetland and Littoral Rainforest Mapping review	The project investigated discrepancies between Council’s mapping of Littoral Rainforest and Coastal Wetlands with the R&H SEPP mapping.	Endorsed by Council 28 September 2023 (Res 23-441). The report is provided on the CMP webpage in the Document Library here. Report provides key information for identification and evaluation of management options for Stage 3 preparation.
Baywood Chase Lake Management Plan	Council sought to finalise management options for Baywood Chase Lake in 2024 with the aim to improve water quality and ecosystem health. Council surveyed community and key stakeholders and sought feedback from the Coast and ICOLL Advisory Committee (refer report May 2024) on key concerns and considerations for rehabilitation and management. Council’s consultant prepared a multi-criteria analysis to prioritise and shortlist recommended options. Council is now proceeding with analysis of the shortlisted options through the CMP for the Tallow Creek (and Ti-Tree Lake) catchment. This has associated benefits including significantly greater opportunity for community and stakeholder engagement on CMP actions. *Funded by Council.	Options for management of Baywood Chase Lake are being considered through the options evaluation and assessment for the Tallow Creek (and T-Tree Lake) CMP (underway). Community engagement regarding preferred options is expected to commence in mid-2025.
Byron Shire Open Coast CMP Stage 3.	The project study area covers the entirety of the open coastal area of the Byron Shire LGA. This CMP will pertain to open coast hazard threats/risks (being erosion and shoreline recession, coastal inundation and cliff instability) and open coast issues only. Preparing a CMP in close consultation with Council that is feasible and has been developed in accordance with the Mandatory Requirements of the CM Framework and may be certified by the Minister. Scope of CMP work is for Stage 3 only (through risk assessment, identification of options, cost-benefit analysis and evaluation of management options). Stage 3 options should reduce exposure to coastal hazards, address coastal management issues and take advantage of opportunities Stage 4 will commence once Stage 3 is complete.	Consultant engaged April 2024. Project delivery steps: · Project inception (complete) · Communication and engagement planning (in progress) · Review of literature (complete) · Detailed coastal risk assessment (near complete) · Options evaluation and assessment (underway) · Community and stakeholder engagement (underway) · Confirm management options (not started)
Byron Shire CMPs for Belongil Creek coastal zone and for Tallow Creek coastal zone (incorporating Ti-Tree Lake) – Stage 3	In addition to a CMP for the open coast, Council is preparing a CMP each for: · Belongil Creek estuary coastal zone · Tallow Creek estuary coastal zone (including the hydraulically connected Ti-Tree/Taylor’s Lake). These CMPs will pertain to estuary hazards (e.g. tidal inundation; estuary foreshore erosion from combined tides/flooding) and threats to estuary values, e.g. water quality in the catchment; waste; access etc. Scope of CMP work is for Stage 3 only (risk assessment, and identification and evaluation of management options). Stage 4 will commence once Stage 3 is complete.	Consultant engaged October 2024. Project delivery steps: · Project inception (complete) · Communication and engagement planning (in progress) · Review of literature (complete) · Detailed coastal risk assessment (complete) · Options evaluation and assessment (underway) · Community and stakeholder engagement (underway) · Confirm management options (not started)
Marshalls Creek Foreshore Remediation Project	DPIRD - Fisheries in partnership with Council as part of the NSW NEAP Program have progressed with planning for a site at New Brighton on Marshalls Creek for future erosion and bank stabilisation works. Bank undercutting from wash and current scour is threatening public access to the foreshore and the Council Road. Public trampling of the riverbank is also having an impact on the stability of the area. The erosion at this location was also identified as a key concern by community in the Ocean Shores, New Brighton, and South Golden Beach during the recent master plan consultation. DPIRD - Fisheries have engaged a consultant to identify planning pathways and approvals advice and to develop detailed designs for foreshore remediation. Council is supporting the project through provision of advice, data, information, and staff review of designs. *Funded by Fisheries	Consultant engaged January 2025. Project to be completed by June 2025.
On-Ground Implementation Projects
Bringing Back the Bruns Initiative	'Bringing back the Bruns' is a program that aims to rehabilitate the Brunswick River, estuary and catchment. It involves us working with partners and the community on a series of projects. Projects include on going bush regeneration and restoration of the riparian corridor, addressing riverbank erosion, reconnecting fish habitats, improving soil health and working with and supporting landholders. *Funded through Council and various grants.	This program is ongoing and generally delivered through partnership arrangements and grant funding opportunities.
Cavanbah and Belongil Dune Recovery Project	A small-scale dune recovery project is being delivered along Cavanbah and Belongil Beach with most works now complete. The project comprised repairs to beach access ways, fencing and signage of the dunes and vegetation management (weed removal, direct seeding and planting). Dune restoration assists in the protection of dune ecosystems and habitat; protection of cultural heritage (e.g. middens in the dune); improved beach access and amenity.	Project almost complete. Planting planned for April 2025.
Main and Clarkes Beach Dune Recovery Project	Council delivered the Main and Clarkes Beach Dune Recovery Project late 2022 to help speed up the recovery of the beaches that were affected by significant erosion in the December 2022 event. The project was a success with the outcomes supporting beach scraping as a viable soft approach for management of the beaches. A Vegetation Management Plan (VMP) was created for the project which includes follow-up monitoring of plant recovery (~6-monthly) to understand vegetation recovery. Monitoring results show dramatic increase in native vegetation cover with the most successful plant being Goats Foot through natural regeneration. Spinifex was the most successful plant in the revegetation effort mainly due to direct seeding. Outcomes of the monitoring will assist Council with follow-up beach scraping and/or dune recovery projects in the future.	Complete. Vegetation photo monitoring ongoing to inform future planning for dune restoration projects.

Project Name

Brief Description

Status/ Expected Completion

Planning and Investigation Projects

Main Beach Shoreline Project (MBSP)

A design investigation for the modification of the coastal protection works at Main Beach, Byron Bay between the Surf Club and First Sun Holiday Park. The investigation looks at how we can best protect Byron Bay Town Centre from coastal erosion now and into the future.

The three shortlisted options are:

· Option 2 – Berm rock revetment and pathway.

· Option 5 – Protective structure moved landward by 10m.

· Option 7 – Existing structure upgraded to contemporary standards.

The information presented in MBSP studies provide the basis for further development and evaluation of the shortlisted options. Significant community consultation and engagement has been undertaken to identify options and shortlist the 3 preferred options for detailed evaluation.

Detailed evaluation will be undertaken during Stage 3 of the Open Coast CMP using multicriteria analysis (MCA) of the three short-listed options with the objective of selecting a preferred option to carry forward and implement into the CMP actions in Stage 4.

All studies completed as part of the project are provided on Council’s MBSP project webpage here.

Coastal Hazard Assessment (CHA) Study

The CHA Study (Bluecoast, 2023) is the third major investigation into coastal processes, sand movements and hazards in the Byron region following PWD’s investigation in the 1978 and BMT 2013 study. In line with the Coastal Management Act 2016 and Coastal Management Manual, a coastal hazard assessment was undertaken considering a range of specific coastal hazards.

The study quantifies the coastal processes operating on the Byron Shire coastline and the nature and extent of exposure to coastal hazards and threats to public and private assets (both natural and built).

A Byron coastal sand budget was developed (which maps historical sand volume changes) to understand the rates and directions of sand movements. Building on the coastal sand budget, coastal hazard assessments and analysis were undertaken to understand current and future risks to the coastal zone from hazards.

The outcomes of the CHA Study are essential to coastal planning and the preparation of CMPs. The study informs the detailed risk analysis undertaken in Stage 3 CMP preparation and is used to identify and evaluate management options and support decision making.

The CHA Study was adopted by Council on 22 February 2024 (Res 24-035).

The study is provided on Council’s webpage here.

Byron Shire Water Quality Source Tracking and Control Program for Belongil Creek, Tallow Creek and Ti-Tree Lake

Water pollution of the Tallow Creek and Belongil Creek estuaries from a variety of sources was identified as a key threat to coastal values as identified in the Scoping Study for the southern Byron shire coastline.

Identifies risks associated with water pollution in Tallow and Belongil Creek catchments and identifies opportunities for improving water quality for further consideration at Stage 3.

Endorsed by Council 28 September 2023 (Res 23-441).

The report is provided on the CMP webpage in the Document Library here.

Review of the Entrance Opening Strategies for Belongil and Tallow Creek estuaries - identifying risks to cultural and ecological values and low-lying assets associated with ICOLL entrance opening strategies

Aimed at advising on recommended amendments to the entrance opening strategies (EOS’) for Belongil Creek and Tallow Creek, along with undertaking the necessary supporting studies (i.e. literature review, engagement with Arakwal, case study for other NSW ICOLLs, assessment of nuisance flood risk in Tallow Creek, identification of improvements to decision support frameworks etc.

Recommendations were provided for varying timeframes. Of particular note, any setting/changing of a trigger level for entrance management at Tallow Creek should be done through the floodplain risk management process during development of the updated flood study (presently underway).

Reported to Coast and ICOLL Committee May 2024.

The report is provided on the CMP webpage in the Document Library here.

Two-year review of Belongil EOS completed. Amendments to EOS drafted incorporating shorter-term recommendations and outcomes from the project. Two-year review and amended EOS reported to Council for endorsement 27 February 2025 (Res 25-056). Council to finalise amended EOS, renew entrance management permits and approvals.

Longer term recommendations to be considered following receipt of additional information (clarification of Council’s role/responsibility, pending updated flood studies), or through the CMP process (e.g. local adaptation planning, study of fish ecology).

Shire-Wide Coastal Wetland and Littoral Rainforest Mapping review

The project investigated discrepancies between Council’s mapping of Littoral Rainforest and Coastal Wetlands with the R&H SEPP mapping.

Endorsed by Council 28 September 2023 (Res 23-441).

The report is provided on the CMP webpage in the Document Library here.

Report provides key information for identification and evaluation of management options for Stage 3 preparation.

Baywood Chase Lake Management Plan

Council sought to finalise management options for Baywood Chase Lake in 2024 with the aim to improve water quality and ecosystem health.

Council surveyed community and key stakeholders and sought feedback from the Coast and ICOLL Advisory Committee (refer report May 2024) on key concerns and considerations for rehabilitation and management.

Council’s consultant prepared a multi-criteria analysis to prioritise and shortlist recommended options.

Council is now proceeding with analysis of the shortlisted options through the CMP for the Tallow Creek (and Ti-Tree Lake) catchment. This has associated benefits including significantly greater opportunity for community and stakeholder engagement on CMP actions.

*Funded by Council.

Options for management of Baywood Chase Lake are being considered through the options evaluation and assessment for the Tallow Creek (and T-Tree Lake) CMP (underway).

Community engagement regarding preferred options is expected to commence in mid-2025.

Byron Shire Open Coast CMP Stage 3.

The project study area covers the entirety of the open coastal area of the Byron Shire LGA. This CMP will pertain to open coast hazard threats/risks (being erosion and shoreline recession, coastal inundation and cliff instability) and open coast issues only.

Preparing a CMP in close consultation with Council that is feasible and has been developed in accordance with the Mandatory Requirements of the CM Framework and may be certified by the Minister.

Scope of CMP work is for Stage 3 only (through risk assessment, identification of options, cost-benefit analysis and evaluation of management options). Stage 3 options should reduce exposure to coastal hazards, address coastal management issues and take advantage of opportunities

Stage 4 will commence once Stage 3 is complete.

Consultant engaged April 2024.

Project delivery steps:

· Project inception (complete)

· Communication and engagement planning (in progress)

· Review of literature (complete)

· Detailed coastal risk assessment (near complete)

· Options evaluation and assessment (underway)

· Community and stakeholder engagement (underway)

· Confirm management options (not started)

Byron Shire CMPs for Belongil Creek coastal zone and for Tallow Creek coastal zone (incorporating Ti-Tree Lake) – Stage 3

In addition to a CMP for the open coast, Council is preparing a CMP each for:

· Belongil Creek estuary coastal zone

· Tallow Creek estuary coastal zone (including the hydraulically connected Ti-Tree/Taylor’s Lake).

These CMPs will pertain to estuary hazards (e.g. tidal inundation; estuary foreshore erosion from combined tides/flooding) and threats to estuary values, e.g. water quality in the catchment; waste; access etc.

Scope of CMP work is for Stage 3 only (risk assessment, and identification and evaluation of management options).

Stage 4 will commence once Stage 3 is complete.

Consultant engaged October 2024.

Project delivery steps:

· Project inception (complete)

· Communication and engagement planning (in progress)

· Review of literature (complete)

· Detailed coastal risk assessment (complete)

· Options evaluation and assessment (underway)

· Community and stakeholder engagement (underway)

· Confirm management options (not started)

Marshalls Creek Foreshore Remediation Project

DPIRD - Fisheries in partnership with Council as part of the NSW NEAP Program have progressed with planning for a site at New Brighton on Marshalls Creek for future erosion and bank stabilisation works. Bank undercutting from wash and current scour is threatening public access to the foreshore and the Council Road. Public trampling of the riverbank is also having an impact on the stability of the area. The erosion at this location was also identified as a key concern by community in the Ocean Shores, New Brighton, and South Golden Beach during the recent master plan consultation.

DPIRD - Fisheries have engaged a consultant to identify planning pathways and approvals advice and to develop detailed designs for foreshore remediation.

Council is supporting the project through provision of advice, data, information, and staff review of designs.

*Funded by Fisheries

Consultant engaged January 2025.

Project to be completed by June 2025.

On-Ground Implementation Projects

Bringing Back the Bruns Initiative

'Bringing back the Bruns' is a program that aims to rehabilitate the Brunswick River, estuary and catchment. It involves us working with partners and the community on a series of projects. Projects include on going bush regeneration and restoration of the riparian corridor, addressing riverbank erosion, reconnecting fish habitats, improving soil health and working with and supporting landholders.

*Funded through Council and various grants.

This program is ongoing and generally delivered through partnership arrangements and grant funding opportunities.

Cavanbah and Belongil Dune Recovery Project

A small-scale dune recovery project is being delivered along Cavanbah and Belongil Beach with most works now complete. The project comprised repairs to beach access ways, fencing and signage of the dunes and vegetation management (weed removal, direct seeding and planting).

Dune restoration assists in the protection of dune ecosystems and habitat; protection of cultural heritage (e.g. middens in the dune); improved beach access and amenity.

Project almost complete.

Planting planned for April 2025.

Main and Clarkes Beach Dune Recovery Project

Council delivered the Main and Clarkes Beach Dune Recovery Project late 2022 to help speed up the recovery of the beaches that were affected by significant erosion in the December 2022 event. The project was a success with the outcomes supporting beach scraping as a viable soft approach for management of the beaches.

A Vegetation Management Plan (VMP) was created for the project which includes follow-up monitoring of plant recovery (~6-monthly) to understand vegetation recovery. Monitoring results show dramatic increase in native vegetation cover with the most successful plant being Goats Foot through natural regeneration. Spinifex was the most successful plant in the revegetation effort mainly due to direct seeding. Outcomes of the monitoring will assist Council with follow-up beach scraping and/or dune recovery projects in the future.

Complete.

Vegetation photo monitoring ongoing to inform future planning for dune restoration projects.

Next Steps

· Staff and project consultants will continue to progress Stage 3 development of CMPs for the Byron Shire coast and related coast and estuary projects.

· 3 monthly updates will be provided to the Coast and ICOLL Advisory Committee.

· Updates of the progress of CMP development can be followed on Council’s website.

Strategic Considerations

Community Strategic Plan and Operational Plan

CSP Objective	CSP Strategy	DP Action	Code	OP Activity
3: Nurtured Environment	3.2: Deliver initiatives and education programs to encourage protection of the environment	3.2.3: Planning - Plan to improve the quality of the natural environment	3.2.3.3	Participate in coastal and environmental working groups and initiatives
3: Nurtured Environment	3.3: Protect the health of coastline, estuaries, waterways, and catchments	3.3.1: Coastal Management Program planning and implementation - Undertake Coastal Management Program planning and implementation	3.3.1.3	Improve water quality in Byron Shire's intermittently closed and open lakes and lagoons (ICOLLs)
3: Nurtured Environment	3.3: Protect the health of coastline, estuaries, waterways, and catchments	3.3.1: Coastal Management Program planning and implementation - Undertake Coastal Management Program planning and implementation	3.3.1.8	Prepare Coastal Management Program for the Byron Shire Open Coast
3: Nurtured Environment	3.3: Protect the health of coastline, estuaries, waterways, and catchments	3.3.1: Coastal Management Program planning and implementation - Undertake Coastal Management Program planning and implementation	3.3.1.9	Monitor the status of the coastal zones natural assets
3: Nurtured Environment	3.3: Protect the health of coastline, estuaries, waterways, and catchments	3.3.2: Floodplain management - Mitigate the impact of flooding on private and public property	3.3.2.1	Prepare entrance management strategy for Tallow Creek
3: Nurtured Environment	3.3: Protect the health of coastline, estuaries, waterways, and catchments	3.3.2: Floodplain management - Mitigate the impact of flooding on private and public property	3.3.2.2	Update entrance management strategy for Belongil Creek

Legal/Statutory/Policy Considerations

The NSW Coastal Management Framework in NSW comprises the following elements:

· the Coastal Management Act 2016 (CM Act)

· the State Environmental Planning Policy (Resilience and Hazards) 2021 (R&H SEPP)

· the NSW Coastal Management Manual (OEH, 2018).

Council is presently preparing Coastal Management Programs (CMP) for the Byron Shire coastline. The purpose of the CMP will be to set the long-term strategy for the management of the coastal zone, addressing priority open coast management issues and actions to address the issues, with a focus on achieving the objectives of the CM Act.

Financial Considerations

A budget of $240,000 has been allocated for CMP Stage 3 preparation with an expected grant income of $168,000 (Council share of ~$72,000):

· Open Coast CMP Stage 3 - $155,000 (Council share of ~$46,500)

· Belongil and Tallow Estuary CMP Stage 3 - $85,000 (Council share of ~$25,500).

Allocation of budget for Stage 4 CMP preparation is being considered for FY2025/26.

Consultation and Engagement

Project specific consultation and engagement plans are prepared and implemented as relevant to each study/project.

Venue	Conference Room, Station Street, Mullumbimby
Date	Thursday, 20 March 2025
Time	11:30 AM