About Us

Bellarine Bayside Foreshore Committee of Management (Bellarine Bayside) is a not-for-profit, Category 1 coastal Committee of Management established under the Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978 by the Victorian Government in 1994 to manage a coastal Crown land reserve.

The coastal reserve managed by Bellarine Bayside consists of a 17 kilometre stretch of coastline through the towns of Portarlington, Indented Head and St Leonards on the northern Bellarine Peninsula. It comprises approximately 200 hectares of coastal land of significant cultural, environmental and social importance, and includes natural and built assets, holiday parks, the Bellarine Coastal Trail, playgrounds, a community hall, boat ramps and boat sheds.

Our Purpose

Bellarine Bayside is responsible for the management of the coastal reserve in accordance with the Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978, the Marine and Coastal Act 2018 and related subordinate legislation and policy set by the Victorian Government. Bellarine Bayside is responsible for ensuring the land is managed, maintained, improved and controlled to provide environmental, social and economic benefits for the Victorian community.

Our Vision for the Coastal Reserve

A protected and enhanced northern Bellarine foreshore which has highly valued cultural heritage, distinctive coastal character and environmental assets for the enjoyment of the community.

Our Funding

All incoming funds are reinvested back into maintaining and improving coastal Crown land, public infrastructure and holiday park facilities.

We currently generate approximately $7 million in direct revenue annually, with the majority derived through fees from the six Crown land holiday parks we manage. Other revenue is derived from a range of sources including lease, licence and permit fees, and supplemented by grants for specific projects.

No recurrent funding is received from commonwealth, state or local government.

Partnerships

We are privileged to manage Wadawurrung Country and do so with respect for the Traditional Owners who have lived on Country for tens of thousands of years.

We are committed to protecting, restoring and promoting traditional cultural values in collaboration with the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation to achieve effective management of our coastal regions.

We have established and continue to maintain strong working relationships with key stakeholders and industry partners including the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP), City of Greater Geelong, Better Boating Victoria and Parks Victoria to deliver a collaborative approach resulting in mutually beneficial outcomes.

A diverse approach to engagement and communication with the broader community enables us to understand use of the coastal reserve and local values. We focus on positive relationships and education of residents and visitors to promote an appreciation of the coastal environment. This allows us to realise a high level of customer service and ensure sustainable and shared use of the coastal reserve.