Brimbank Council Meeting No. 633 21 May 2024
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12.13
Final Draft Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan
12.13
Final Draft Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan
Directorate
Infrastructure and City Services
Director
Chris Leivers
Manager
Aidan Mullen
Attachment(s)
1. Sunshine Energy Park Draft Vision Plan [
12.13.1
- 28
pages]
2. GHD Report - Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan Review -
May 2024 [
12.13.2
- 41 pages]
3. Sunshine Energy Park Draft Vision - Community
Feedback [
12.13.3
- 1 page]
4. Sunshine Energy Park Draft Vision - Key Stakeholder
Feedback Report [
12.13.4
- 58 pages]
5. CONFIDENTIAL REDACTED - Sunshine Energy Park Draft
Vision Plan - Business Proposals Received [
12.13.5
- 28
pages]
6. Sunshine Energy Park Draft Vision Plan - Gender Impact
Assessment Report [
12.13.6
- 3 pages]
Purpose
For Council to receive the community and stakeholder feedback on the Draft Sunshine
Energy Park Vision and to consider adopting the Final Draft Sunshine Energy Park Vision
Plan, at
Attachment 1
.
Officer Recommendation
That Council:
a. Notes that on the 13 December 2022 Council endorsed the Draft
Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan, for community consultation and
requested to receive a further report outlining any submissions made on
the Draft Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan and present a Final Draft
Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan for consideration for adoption.
b. Notes that an independent technical review of the Final Draft Vision Plan
has been undertaken by the engineering firm GHD (provided in
Attachment 2) which confirms that the Final Draft Vision Plan is feasible
and will guide the future implementation process.
c. Notes the community feedback (provided in Attachment 3) and
stakeholder feedback (provided in Attachment 4) received and that this
report summaries and discusses the main items for consideration raised
in the submissions.
d. Notes that unsolicited proposals were received by local business and
organisations with ideas for partnerships in line with the Draft Vision and
that these will be considered in future, as part of an open process, via an
Expressions of Interest process, or similar, to realise Councils Vision for
the site (see Confidential Attachment 5).
e. Notes the Gender Impact Assessment Report (see Attachment 6)
undertaken which has informed the updated Final Draft Vision Plan.
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f. Notes that the development of the Draft Sunshine Energy Park Vision
Plan builds on the Transforming Brimbank – Sunshine Priority Precinct
Vision 2050 adopted by Council in April 2021, Brimbank Advocacy Plan
adopted by Council in March 2022 and the Sports Facility Development
Plan adopted in October 2023.
g. Having considered feedback received as part of the consultation process
for the draft Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan and the independent
technical review, adopts the Final Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan (see
Attachment 1).
h. Notes that the full implementation of the Final Sunshine Energy Park
Vision Plan will not be able to be funded by Council alone and will rely on
developing business cases for a staged implementation and forming
partnerships with Governments, community groups and private sector as
appropriate.
i. Notes that officers will actively explore external funding opportunities
for a staged implementation through grants, partnerships and business
case development and the Council will consider funding for
implementation of the Final Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan in future
budget processes and Council reports as appropriate.
j. Notes that a formal expression of interests for partnership and leasing
opportunities may be undertaken in the future, following the relevant
statutory processes.
k. Writes to those who provided written submission thanking them for their
feedback on the draft Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan and advising of
Council’s decision.
l. Writes to Stakeholders that can help with the realisation of the Vision for
Sunshine Energy Park to inform them of Councils endorsement and to
invite them to work with Council to deliver on the Vision.
Background
The Draft Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan (the Vision Plan) covers the land parcels
528B, 570 and 570A Ballarat Road, Albion, 27A Carrington Drive, Albion and 62, 137,
137A Denton Ave, St Albans which collectively is 74 hectares of Council owned land.
The Wurundjeri are the Traditional Custodians of Sunshine Energy Park.
Sunshine Energy Park (the Park) is situated within the Sunshine Priority Precinct, the
Sunshine National Employment and Innovation Cluster and the Albion Quarter Structure
Plan boundary and is positioned to become a state significant destination and community
hub.
The Draft Vision Plan provides Council with a framework to enable the site to be the
‘central park’ for Brimbank and Melbourne’s west in the future and will enable the
development of further feasibility studies and business cases for various aspects of the
Draft Vision Plan.
The site is a closed landfill with some of the land currently being leased by community
groups and clubs.
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The Sunshine Energy Park site was quarried for basalt from around 1900, following this
the worked-out quarry pits were reclaimed by landfilling from the late-1960s until the
late-1980s under licence. Capping works occurred progressively during operation and to
a final landform after closure. Additional civil works commenced in 2012 which included
the works to import soil to create a water shedding profile and improve drainage.
Aftercare of the landfill continues, including environmental monitoring, settlement
monitoring and control of residual landfill gas. The Closed Sunshine Landfills are now
suitable for recreation and community use after extensive rehabilitation works and
aftercare management, which will continue into the future.
The park’s name relates to an energy production scheme that operated on the site in the
1990’s which used the landfill gas to generate electricity for export to the State network.
While this power generation scheme has since finished, the name Sunshine Energy Park
still resonates with the vision and ambitions articulated for the transformation of the
Park in the Final Draft Vision Plan.
A Future Use Feasibility Assessment was undertaken by GHD in 2019 which guided the
development of the Preliminary Draft Vision Plan 2022. The Preliminary Draft Vision Plan
was also informed by Council’s key strategic drivers including the Aboriginal Heritage
Strategy, Climate Emergency Plan, the Sports Development Plan and Transforming
Brimbank – Sunshine Priority Precinct Vision 2050.
On 13 December 2022 Council endorsed the Draft Vision Plan for the purposes of
consultation and key stakeholder engagement.
Community and stakeholder engagement processes were undertaken between 1 June
and 1 November 2023 inviting feedback via the Your Say web page and through
information sessions and meetings. The timing of the engagement was coordinated to be
undertaken at the same time as Department of Transport and Planning’s engagement on
the Albion Quarter Structure Plan. A summary discussion of the feedback and key
considerations raised are discussed in the body of this report.
Matters for Consideration
Options
The Draft Vision Plan has been prepared following engagement and technical
assessments:
Option 1: (Officer Recommendation): the Draft Vision Plan be adopted to guide the
planning, design, maintenance and ongoing feasibility and advocacy work for Sunshine
Energy Park.
Option 2: Do not adopt the Draft Vision Plan and plan for maintenance of the site only,
noting this approach would not enable any community access to the site.
Analysis
The Draft Vision Plan covers three land parcels which combined equates to a total of 74
hectares of Council owned land. It outlines the community’s and stakeholder’s
aspirations and embeds shared objectives for the parkland for the next 30 years.
The Vision Plan aims to establish the park as a vibrant community landmark that
nurtures connection to Country, supports sports, recreation, education, and
environmental sustainability. Its location within the Sunshine Priority Precinct provides
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an opportunity to create a destination of local, regional, and state significance, thereby
enhancing liveability and fostering community cohesion.
Core Pillars
Three core pillars have guided the development of the Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan.
These core pillars have been distilled from community feedback and existing Council
policy, including Brimbank City Council's Climate Emergency Plan, Reconciliation Action
Plan, Health and Well-Being Plan, Sports Development Plan, Biodiversity Strategy and
Council Plan. In particular, the Sunshine Priority Precinct Vision 2050 outlines key
aspirational outcomes for what the Sunshine CBD and Sunshine Priority Precinct could
look like in 2050 including Sunshine Energy Park. According to the Sunshine Priority
Precinct Vision 2050, "Sunshine Energy Park is transformed into one of the western
region's premium parks."
The three core pillars are:
•
Caring for Country
•
Sustainable Innovation
•
Inclusive Wellbeing
The vision for the parkland is as follows:
"Sunshine Energy Park will be a catalyst for Sunshine’s renewal, embedding a high
performing urban parkland at its core that inspires community well-being, biodiversity,
and environmental innovation."
The Precincts
The Final Draft Vision Plan outlines 8 precincts which deliver on the core pillars and
vision:
1. Cultural and Ecological Precinct
2. Community Club Precinct
3. Sustainability Precinct
4. Outdoor Sporting Precinct
5. Play Precinct
6. Cycling Precinct
7. Stadium Precinct
8. Water Management
Evolution of the project
The extent of the Final Draft Vision Plan has been broadened to include the parklands
(137A Denton Ave) on the north side of the M80 Western Ring Road, following
engagement with stakeholder within the Sunshine Hospital precinct.
The increase of the Energy Park parkland to the northern side of the M80 brings
Sunshine Energy Park closer to the Sunshine Hospital precinct, which creates better
opportunities for hospital staff, patients and visitors. The Park is 1km walking distance
from Sunshine Hospital. Including this open space into the Energy Park precinct will
enable Council to deliver on the objective of Caring for Country by increasing and
protecting habitat through an endorsed Plan.
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Zoning and Overlays
All parcels are zoned PPRZ except for 570 Ballarat Road (IN1Z) and the following
overlays exist over the site: DCPO2, EAO, ESO6 (only part of 137A Denton Ave).
The Vision Plan includes a children’s playground which will trigger the requirement for an
environmental audit under the Environmental Audit Overlay (EAO). Given the precinct
approach and staged implementation of development, an environmental audit could
potentially be limited to the extent of the playground, or any other sensitive use
proposed. Council may also voluntarily commence an environmental audit for any other
precincts or undertake these as requested by the Planning Authority.
Technical Assessments
In 2019 Council engaged GHD to undertake a preliminary technical assessment of future
use options for the Sunshine Energy Park. The options assessment consisted of a high
level study to inform the planning for future use, assessing environmental, geotechnical,
statutory planning and urban development constraints associated with potential uses for
SEP. The options assessment examined three broad future uses:
-
Low impact use – solar park or open recreational parkland with no buildings or
deep human inhabited underground confined spaces.
-
Medium impact use – formal sports fields/sports facilities with limited enclosed
structures or underground confined spaces, such as clubrooms and a small
grandstand.
-
High impact use – extensive built form with extensive enclosed structures or deep
underground confined spaces, such as enclosed sports stadium, mixed use
industrial, commercial or residential properties
When the Draft Vision Plan was prepared in 2022 for the purposes of community and
stakeholder engagement it was done so in consideration of the guidance provided in the
2019 Technical Assessment.
In 2024 Council engaged GHD to undertake a review (see
Attachment 2
) of the Final
Draft Vision Plan against the recommendations provided in the 2019 Technical
Assessment.
The review included:
-
Review the proposed Vision Plan proposals against recommendations provided in
the 2019 Technical Assessment.
-
Comparison of timeframes for end use scenarios presented in the 2019 Technical
Assessment against proposed development and settlement monitoring data to
date.
-
Review of Vision Plan proposals against settlement monitoring and environmental
data to date which has been collected by GHD subsequent to the 2019 Technical
Assessment.
-
Identifications of additional broad environmental and geotechnical risks which
may have become apparent since the 2019 Technical Assessment based on data
collected by GHD in subsequent investigations.
-
Comment on the Environmental Audit Overlay (EAO) requirements which have
been applied to the subject site subsequent to the 2019 Technical Assessment.
The recommendations from the in the Vision Plan Review 2024 (GHD) are that:
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-
The Vision Plan is reviewed as it develops, and geotechnical and environmental
advice is sought during each phase of the development.
-
Settlement monitoring should continue to allow ongoing trends to be monitored
and assessed to better inform decision making processes.
The recommendations for the proposals outside of the ‘landfill area’:
-
Development outside the ‘landfill area’ can proceed with appropriate design for all
land use scenarios (low, medium and high) however all buildings are likely to
require landfill gas protection measures.
The recommendations for the proposals within the ‘landfill area’:
Low impact uses (e.g. cycle precinct, dog park, artwork, car park):
-
Low impact development can progress with careful design and ground
improvement measures to accommodate ongoing settlement and environmental
controls.
Medium impact uses (e.g. play precinct, small pavilions, sports fields):
-
The Vision Plan includes one medium impact scenario (play precinct). This is
considered medium impact due to geotechnical (settlement) and not
environmental factors - however can proceed with appropriate design.
High impact uses: (e.g. stadium, operations centre):
-
The Vision Plan does not include any high impact scenarios within the ‘landfill
area’. This was based on information from 2019 Draft TAR and supported by
Vision Plan Review 2024 which advised these uses should not progress for 20 –
30 years.
Solar Farm
A feasibility study and the business case for the Solar Farm is finalised. The business
case indicates establishing the solar farm in Sunshine Energy Park is technically feasible
but not economically viable with current technologies. Exploring different business
models and alternative technologies in conjunction with solar can be further
investigated. Creating a smaller solar system that’s expandable for onsite generation can
also be considered in future study.
Stanford Street Operations Centre
The Vision Plan includes an Operation Centre, and this allows for a future potential
relocation of the Stanford Street Operations Centre to Sunshine Energy Park. This would
provide a more centralised location for the Operations Centre and allow development of
active travel connections at the current site in Stanford Street, Sunshine. Initial
feasibility work has been undertaken that indicates that the relocation is feasible, with
further specific technical assessment work required. Whilst possible and desirable, as
per all elements of the Vision, the implementation of this element would be subject to
prioritisation and budget capacity.
Resource Recovery Centre
A feasibility study for the relocation of the Stanford Street Depot in Sunshine and the
development of a Resource Recovery Centre in Sunshine Energy Park was completed in
June 2023. While the feasibility study indicated that both the depot relocation and the
development of a resource recovery centre were technically feasible, further work is
required to determine if either option is financially viable or fits in with the other
components of the Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan.
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As part of the evaluation of the feasibility report, officers determined that the reference
to a Resource Recovery Centre, which is a very particular operations outcome, is too
specific at this stage, and instead the objective for a ‘Sustainability Hub’ should instead
be referred to, which could encompass a number of different sustainability outcomes,
depending on feasibility, funding and fit.
Remediation and Ongoing Monitoring of the Closed Landfill site
The Closed Sunshine Landfills had ceased accepting waste by 1990, with landfill capping
occurring progressively during operation and to a final landform after closure.
Landfill gas extraction and power generation infrastructure was established at Sunshine
Energy Park following the closure of the landfill operation. A landfill gas power station
commenced operation in 1992, with electricity exported to the State network.
Gas generation rates were later found to be significantly lower than forecast, and power
generation became financially unviable.
In 2002, the generators were converted to run on natural gas and used to target peak
payment periods while the site flare continued to manage landfill gas emissions. Power
generation ceased altogether in 2009, and the generators were removed. Since 2010,
Council has coordinated with the EPA and initiated numerous environmental and health
investigations. In 2013, an environmental audit was completed for the closed Sunshine
Landfills, which led to the preparation of aftercare management plans implemented by
Council.
Council commissioned civil works starting in 2012 to import soil to the closed landfill to
create a water shedding profile and improve drainage. This work has shaped the existing
landscape and surface levels at the site today.
Aftercare for the Closed Sunshine Landfills will continue into the future, involving
environmental monitoring, settlement monitoring and control of residual landfill gas.
Landfill gas management infrastructure may need to be expanded to mitigate risks to
new sensitive development such as buildings and structures. Environmental
infrastructure will need to be retained for the long-term to manage risk and be
integrated with precinct design. Landfill gas generation is directly linked to the
biodegradation of the waste mass, therefore, environmental risks and geotechnical
constraints for medium/high impact buildings on the landfill area should diminish and
stabilise together over time.
The Closed Sunshine Landfills are now suitable for recreation and community use after
extensive rehabilitation works and aftercare management, which will continue into the
future.
Implementation
The Vision Plan represents aspirations and possibilities for this future parkland. Over the
next 30 years each precinct will take its own path to implementation as partnerships and
funding opportunities are explored. The size and ambition of this Vision requires
significant collaboration between all stakeholders of this land to explore how the Vision
can be realised.
The implementation plan has been informed by the 2019 Technical Assessment and
2024 Technical Review undertaken by GHD. Expert geotechnical and environmental
advice will be sought during each phase of the development.
Indicative Cost Estimate
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Consulting engineering firm WT Partnerships Pty Ltd were engaged to prepare an
Opinion of Probable Costs (OPC) for the full implementation of the Draft SEP Vision Plan.
The cost to implement the plan is estimated at $500,000,000 which is comparable to the
redevelopment of the Caulfield Racecourse which is a project of similar scale and
complexity.
Council will not be able to fund this transformation and, as previously mentioned, further
feasibility and business cases are needed for all of the above zones to enable future
advocacy with Private and Public stakeholders such as governments and developers.
Advocacy
The Sunshine Priority Precinct Vision 2050, outlines what the Sunshine CBD and
Sunshine Priority Precinct could look like in 2050, including a transformed Sunshine
Energy Park into the Western Regions' premium park.
The Brimbank Advocacy Plan (2022) list Transforming Brimbank as a Gold priority for
Brimbank, which includes Sunshine Energy Park.
The Advocacy Plan states that Council is seeking the following advocacy outcomes for
Sunshine Energy Park:
•
Funding for the delivery of Sunshine Energy Park, subject to the adoption of the
Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan.
•
Government delivery of key connections into the new park across State
Government assets such as motorways, railway lines and roads. – This will
connect key destinations such as Sunshine CBD, Sunshine Hospital Precinct and
Development Victoria’s Cairnlea and LUMA sites.
•
Delivery of a new state significant indoor stadium and other facilities in the
precinct for sport and events.
•
Government investment in a new solar energy farm at Sunshine Energy Park.
•
Government investment for a new environmental community space, similar to
CERES, which includes a resource recovery centre.
•
Government investment for new sports and recreation fields and facilities.
•
Renewal and treatment of Jones Creek and Stony Creek, including using
integrated
Subject to Council adoption of the Final Draft Vision Plan and consideration through the
Annual Budget process for the development of business cases, advocacy approaches will
be able to be considered to seek external funding.
Community Engagement
Community and Key Stakeholder Engagement commenced on 21 June 2023, and the
final engagement meeting was undertaken on 1 November 2023. Engagement with the
community involved face to face engagement, Your Say page, media posts and flier and
letter delivery. Engagement was undertaken with 46 key stakeholders.
Feedback Summary
Below is a summary of the engagement process undertaken:
Type
Time
Methods
Broad community feedback
21 June – 31
Aug 23
Your Say, flier, media
In-person information
sessions
Targeted Stakeholders Feeback
-
Adjacent properties + tenants
June – Aug
2023
Your Say, flier, media
In-person information
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-
Organisations with interest
-
Gov. Departments + agencies
-
Ministers + Local Members
sessions
Unsolicited Business Proposal
June – Aug
2023
Via email
Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage
Aboriginal Corporation
Nov 2021 –
Nov 2023
Online information session
(15/9/2023)
Onsite meeting
(1/11/2023)
BATSICC
Nov 2021 –
Oct 2023
Online information session
(23/11/21)
Onsite meeting
(6/10/2023)
Brimbank Youth Council
19 July 23 workshop (5-7pm)
Community feedback
There were 66 responses to a series of questions relating to the Draft Vision Plan on the
project’s Your Say page as outlined in
Attachment 3.
74% of respondents stated that
the draft Vision Plan will meet the needs and aspirations of the community.
Key Stakeholders (Government Departments, Adjoining Property Owners and
Potential Funding Partners)
Invitations to online information sessions on the Vision Plan were sent to 60 identified
key stakeholders. There were subsequently individual meetings held key stakeholders
who were interested in having further discussions, these were held with the following
key stakeholder – a full consultation report is at
Attachment 4
this report also includes
the 13 written submissions received from the following organisations:
1. Albion and Ardeer Community Club Inc
2. Australian Unity – Sunshine Private Hospital
3. BikeWest
4. Brimbug
5. Cadence
6. Friends of Kororoit Creek
7. Henkell Brothers
8. Islamic Guidance Society of Australia / Khalid bin Al-Waleed Mosque
9. NBL
10. Tennis Victoria
11. Victoria University
12. Volleyball Victoria
13. Western Pigeon Federation of Victoria
The community clubs who currently use the site were approached for feedback on the
Vision Plan.
Across the engagement process, there was strong support for elements within the vision
that address:
•
Walking, cycling, and public transport connections
•
Environment sustainability
•
Community gathering and social cohesion
•
Health and wellbeing
•
Supporting sports in Brimbank
•
SEP as a destination
•
Potential partnerships
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The implementation of the Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan would require ongoing
consultation and engagement with stakeholders specific for each precinct.
Unsolicited Business Proposals
Submissions were received from several companies interested in establishing within
Sunshine Energy Park (see
Confidential Attachment 5
).
It is recommended that following the adoption of the Final Vision Plan, that Council
undertake a formal EOI to explore any opportunities for partnerships, investment and/or
leasing arrangement which align with the vision and achieve appropriate community
outcomes.
Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation feedback
Officers met with the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation
at on Online information session (15/9/2023) and an Onsite meeting (1/11/2023)
Council officers have shown the Wurundjeri Elders who attended these meetings how
their feedback has been incorporated, they have indicated that they are supportive and
have agreed to prepare a formal foreword for the Vision Plan from the Traditional
Owners.
Feedback provided related to continuing to work together and meeting Country, activate
the park with events, interpreting the park’s history through events, signage and
artwork, and seeking to restore the site’s local fauna and flora.
Council officers are working with the Wurundjeri to investigate the possibility of the
Wurundjeri Elders who attended the meetings on Country to provide a foreword to the
Final Draft Vision Plan. They have given in principle support and the wording is being
developed for inclusion in the final plan.
BATSICC Feedback
Officers met with the Brimbank Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Consultative
Committee (BATSICC) on 23/11/21 and at an onsite meeting on 6/10/2023. At the
meeting on site, the Committee indicated that they were supportive of the project and
wanted to ensure that Wurundjeri engagement be undertaken in the planning design and
implementation of the project. Other feedback included exploring opportunities to
interpret the park’s history through artworks in consultation with the Wurundjeri and
providing spaces for cultural gatherings and ceremonies.
Brimbank Youth Council Feedback
The BYC were asked to consider their overall thoughts on the Vision Plan as a whole and
there was overall support for the plan and the core pillars guiding the design The group
overall felt that the Vision Plan meets the needs and aspirations of the community.
Recommended Officer Changes
Following analysis of feedback received, a summary of the key changes that has been
made to the Preliminary Vision Plan:
Recommendation 1: Expansion of the park area to incorporate the parkland situated on
the northern side of the Western Ring Road into the Vision Plan to increase the SEP
precinct form 54 hectares to 74 hectares.
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Recommendation 2: Include mention of the adequate provision of car parking facilities to
cater to the needs of activities on the northern portion of the site.
Recommendation 3: Relocate playground from the southern area to the northern area of
park.
Recommendation 4: Enhance the amount of Mountain Bike facilities shown in the Vision
Plan including long circular trails.
Recommendation 5: Remove reference to a proposed wetland, as it was shown over or
close to over landfill area. Instead, it is proposed that this area is transformed into a
Conservation and Wildlife Are adjacent to Jones Creek.
Recommendation 6: Provision for private companies through formal EOI process - taking
into consideration submissions already received.
Recommendation 7: Opportunity to establish a dog park within the park.
Recommendation 8: Provide better access to the existing clubrooms within the park
which will continue to operate as part of the park’s Community Use Hub in their current
location.
The project internal working group has been consulted throughout the project and has
been consulted on this list of proposed changes; the group includes representatives from
the following departments: Urban Design (project lead); Transforming Brimbank;
Leisure and Community Facilities; Strategic Planning; Contaminated Land; Climate
Emergency and Environment; Parks Services and Connected Communities.
Draft Sports Facility Development Plan
The Draft Sports Facility Development Plan consultation was undertaken concurrently
with the Energy Park Vision Plan engagement and the feedback and recommendations
for both are in alignment. Of relevance was strong support for indoor courts, outdoor
courts and more sporting facilities to meet community need.
Gender Impact Assessment Report
The Sunshine Energy Park Draft Vision Plan Gender Impact Assessment Report
(
Attachment 6
) makes recommendations to achieve a more equitable public open
space facility. Some of the recommendations relate to the detail design phase of the
project, these below relate to the positioning of features and have been included in the
recommended changes to the Vision Plan:
•
Playground facilities should be within a reasonable distance and visible from all
playing fields
•
Provide additional walking paths and outdoor fitness equipment in the final design
as mountain bike riding is generally more popular with men than women.
•
Inclusion of CTEP principles into design of parkland, in relation to elements such
as lighting, with the safety of woman and children in mind
Resource And Risk Implications
Subject to Council’s adoption of the Final Draft Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan,
funding for business case development of each precinct of the Vision Plan will be
considered in future Annual Budget processes.
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Community:
potential impact on community, including public trust and customer
service impact
• The Sunshine Energy Park Vision presents a Vision for a significant and unique public
space that presents opportunities for increased participation, inclusion, activity and
wellbeing, by unlocking and developing a site that is currently inaccessible to the
community
Environmental:
impacts on environmental sustainability, including water/waste
management, climate change, and contaminated land
• Yes - The Draft Energy Park Vision Plan has the potential to create a new biodiverse
urban park that focusses on heatwave mitigation and create a social/environmental
sustainability hub.
Financial:
significant financial impacts
• Yes - Council will not be able to fund the implementation of the Draft SEP Vision Plan
and will need to seek funding partners over a 30-year period to realise the vision.
Regulatory:
legal, legislative or regulatory implications including the rights/obligations
of stakeholders
• Yes - SEP is closed landfill site and all future works will need to comply with EPA
requirements.
Safety
: health, safety or duty of care impacts
• Yes - SEP is a closed landfill site and can be repurposed to ensure the health and
safety of all users.
Legislation/Council Plan/Policy Context
This report supports the Council Plan 2021-2025 strategic direction and objective of:
1. People and Community - A welcoming, safe and supported community - An
inclusive place for all
• Wellbeing and Belonging - Responsive services that support mental and physical
wellbeing
• Pride and Participation - Community and cultural connections built through social and
artistic expression
2. Places and Spaces - Liveable and connected neighbourhoods that support
healthy and sustainable futures - A green place for all
• Liveable and Connected - Inviting and liveable spaces and facilities, connected so
people can get around
• Sustainable and Green - Protect natural environments for current and future
generations
3. Opportunity and Prosperity - A future focused, transforming city where all
have opportunities to learn and earn - A prosperous place for all
• Growing and Transforming - Optimise community opportunities through infrastructure
innovation and investment
• Earning and Learning - Everyone has access to education, training and lifelong learning
to support their aspirations.
This report complies with the Council Plan 2021-2025, Brimbank Climate Emergency
Plan, Sunshine Priority Precinct Vision 2050 and Brimbank’s Sports Facility Development
Plan.
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Council officers contributing to the preparation and approval of this report, have no
conflicts of interests to declare.
REVISED DRAFT
APRIL 2024
SUNSHINE ENERGY PARK
VISION PLAN
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Attachment 12.13.1
ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF COUNTRY
A MESSAGE FROM THE
WURUNDJERI WOI-WURRUNG
Brimbank City
Council respectfully
acknowledges and
recognises the
Wurundjeri and
Bunurong Peoples
as the Traditional
Custodians of this land
and waterways, and
pays respect to their
Elders, past, present
and future.
Council also acknowledges local Aboriginal
and Torres Strait Islander residents of
Brimbank and their Elders for their ongoing
contribution to the diverse culture of our
community.
The City of Brimbank holds great significance
as a historical trading and gathering hub
for the Traditional Custodians. This region
boasts a profound Aboriginal cultural and
physical heritage.
Within the municipality, there are 427
documented sites of cultural heritage
significance, as recorded in the Victorian
Aboriginal Heritage Register, under the
stewardship of Aboriginal Victoria and
the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006. These
places, landscapes, and objects embody
the intricate and evolving way of life of
Aboriginal peoples over thousands of years.
The journey of the land from its ancestral roots to
its current state as a potential community park is a
poignant reflection of its resilience and the enduring
connection between the Wurundjeri People and their
Country. The transformation from a basalt quarry
to a landfill, and now into a space for healing and
communal gathering, symbolises a profound shift
towards restoration and renewal.
The involvement of Wurundjeri Elders Aunty Julianne
and Aunty Gail in the development of the park's vision
is a testament to the importance of Indigenous voices
in shaping the future of the land. By sharing their
stories and aspirations, they ensure that the vision for
the park is grounded in a deep respect for the land's
history and the cultural significance it holds for the
Wurundjeri People.
The emphasis on storytelling as a means of
connecting visitors to the land's past is a powerful
approach. Through interpretive signage and artistic
expressions, visitors can gain insight into the rich
tapestry of history and culture woven into the
landscape. These stories serve not only to educate
but also to inspire a sense of stewardship and
responsibility for the land and its ongoing care.
In essence, the Sunshine Energy Park represents a
convergence of sustainability, cultural preservation,
and environmental stewardship. It serves as a
beacon of hope for the future, demonstrating how
communities can come together to honour the past
while building a brighter tomorrow for generations to
come.
CONTENTS
Acknowledgment of Country
A Message from the
Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung
Executive Summary
Introduction
Vision
Core Pillars
The Precincts
• Cultural and Ecological
Precinct
• Community Club Precinct
• Sustainability Precinct
• Outdoor Sporting Precinct
• Play Precinct
• Cycling Precinct
• Stadium Precinct
• Water Management
Connecting the Precincts:
Pathways and Gateways
Implementation
The Park and its Context
Indigenous and Community
Engagement
Next Steps
Appendices
2
2
4
6
8
10
14
16
18
20
22
24
26
28
30
32
34
38
43
48
Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan 2024 1
Brimbank Council Meeting No. 633 21 May 2024
15 of 144
Attachment 12.13.1
2019 2022 NOW
2024
5 YEARS 10 YEARS 15 YEARS 20 YEARS
2050 30 YEARS 35 YEARS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan
delineates the transformation of the
74-hectare site into a dynamic, future
focused urban parkland. Brimbank City
Council is committed to establishing the
park as a vibrant community landmark
that nurtures connection to Country and
supports sports, recreation, education,
and environmental sustainability. Nestled
within the Sunshine Priority Precinct,
this vision aspires to create a destination
of local, regional, and state significance,
thereby enhancing liveability and fostering
community cohesion.
Three core pillars have guided the development of the Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan. These
core pillars have been distilled from the voice of the community and policy, including Brimbank
City Council's Climate Emergency Plan, Reconciliation Action Plan, Health and Well-Being Plan,
Sports Development Plan, Biodiversity Strategy and Council Plan.
The Vision Plan is divided into interconnecting precincts which respond to the various needs of
the community. This approach will allow for the development of the site in stages.
The Vision Plan represents aspirations and possibilities for this future parkland.
Over the next 30 year each precinct will take its own path to implementation as partnerships
and funding opportunities are explored. The size and ambition of this Vision requires significant
collaboration between all stakeholders of this land to explore how the Vision can be realised.
1. Cultural and Ecological Precinct
2. Community Club Precinct
3. Sustainability Precinct
4. Outdoor Sporting Precinct
5. Play Precinct
6. Cycling Precinct
7. Stadium Precinct
8. Water Management
Core Pillars
Precincts
Timeline
[subject to funding]
Implementation
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Caring For Country
Sustainable
Innovation
Inclusive Wellbeing
Hulett Street
Ballarat Road
Carrington Drive
Western Ring Road(M80)
St Albans Road
Railway Line
JONES CREEK
KOROROIT CREEK
JONES CREEK
STONY CREEK
UPPER STONY
CREEK
WETLANDS
8
1
1
5
2
6
3
7
4
8
2
4
5
7
6
3
Operational Activities - Ongoing Landfill Monitoring...
Improve entries and key connections
Design and Delivery of projects
within:
- Cultural and Ecological Precinct
- Cycling Precinct
- Sustainability Precinct
- Play Precinct
- Outdoor Sporting Precinct
Sustainability Precinct - Horticultural Hub
Sustainability Precinct - Solar Farm
Stadium Precinct
Draft Vision
Plan & Public
Consultation
Advocacy - Funding &
Partnerships
Master
Plan,
Business
Case and
feasibility
Business Case,
Feasibility
Studies
Business Case
0 50 100 200
400m
ALBION QUARTER
URBAN RENEWAL AREA
Relevant approvals including possible planning approvals may be required throughout the timeframe.
2 Transforming Brimbank
Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan 2024 3
Brimbank Council Meeting No. 633 21 May 2024
16 of 144
Attachment 12.13.1
The Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan
outlines the transformation of the
74-hectare site into a vibrant, future
focused urban parkland. Brimbank City
Council aims to establish the Sunshine
Energy Park as an active community
landmark that fosters connection to
Country, supports sports, recreation,
education, and environmental
sustainability. Positioned within the
Sunshine Priority Precinct, this vision
seeks to create a key destination with
local, regional, and state significance,
enhancing liveability and community
cohesion.
HISTORY OF THE SITE
Originally a volcanic plain grassland, the site
held deep significance for its Traditional
Custodians, the Wurundjeri People. It
subsequently became a basalt quarry,
contributing to Melbourne's expansion,
before transitioning into a landfill site and
later a gas extraction and energy production
site, which gave the park its present name.
This historical trajectory presents an
opportunity to rehabilitate and reimagine
the site as a significant open space and an
ongoing environmental and cultural asset for
the community.
SUNSHINE ENERGY PARK TODAY
Sunshine Energy Park, currently not fully
accessible to the public, holds significant
cultural and ecological value. Enclosed by key
transport arteries and industrial areas, it is
also strategically adjacent to the expanding
residential districts of Brimbank. Positioned
centrally between key railway stations
and within the projected pathway of the
Melbourne Airport Railway Line, the park
is emerging as an essential asset for the
community.
The park is surrounded by significant
developments and community hubs.These
include the Health and Wellbeing & Education
Precinct, which offers a blend of medical
and educational facilities, the Sunshine CBD
that promises economic vibrancy, and the
Sunshine Station that connects people and
places with networks of green, pedestrian
focused streets.
The park's geographical position, bordered
by Jones Creek to the west and Stony Creek
to the east, places it within the catchment of
Kororoit Creek. The future parkland's location
highlights the importance of revitalising
its environmental integrity ensuring it
contributes to the sustainable development
and ecological health of the region.
INTRODUCTION
Pictured: Sunshine Energy Park with Western Ring Road in foreground, 2020
Source: Brimbank City Council
THE POTENTIAL
In line with Council’s Sunshine Priority
Precinct Vision 2050, the vision for Sunshine
Energy Park leverages its strategic location
and rich history to establish a parkland that
addresses the needs of the community and
current environmental challenges. It aims
to act as a catalyst for long lasting, positive
change.
To achieve this vision, the site has been
divided into interconnecting precincts that
foster a diverse range of activities, allowing
for phased development. Each precinct
underscores feasible opportunities for
capital projects and provides a roadmap for
future business case development, subject
to Council's budget approvals. These efforts
will facilitate future advocacy, attract
external funding, and foster engagement
with key stakeholders.
This document sets out a vision for Sunshine
Energy Park that acknowledges its history,
responds to its strategic location within the
Sunshine Priority Precinct, restores ecology
and restores its connection to the natural
systems that surround it. The park's future
as a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable space
represents a significant opportunity to
deliver wide-ranging benefits, from health
and wellbeing to social, environmental,
and economic outcomes, aligning with
Brimbank's broader aspirations for growth
and community development.
Pictured: Sunshine Energy Park view to Sunshine Hospital, 2024
Source: Brimbank City Council
4 Transforming Brimbank
Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan 2024 5
Brimbank Council Meeting No. 633 21 May 2024
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Attachment 12.13.1
Sunshine
Health
Wellbeing &
Education
Precinct
Development Victoria is creating new
neighbourhoods in Sunshine North and
Cairnlea within walking distance of Sunshine
Energy Park. The development of Sunshine
Energy Park will benefit furture residents in
the area.
Sunshine Station will become an integrated
part of a renewed Sunshine. It will be
surrounded by and connect new homes,
workplaces and shops via a network of
green, pedestrian-focused streets and public
spaces. As a place for residents, workers,
students and tourists, the station will
become a hive of activity and civic life.
The Albion Quarter provides an opportunity
to support the next generation of jobs,
innovation and services in Melbourne.
Improving amenity, connectivity and
integration with the train station will see
Albion transformed into a new centre in
Melbourne's west.
Sunshine Central Business District will be
thriving and diverse civic hub, with a network
of bustling streets and public spaces framed
with distinctive buildings. Increased housing,
shops and services will support an active
day-and-night economy, and strengthen
existing cultural and community ties. The
new CBD will establish Sunshine as the centre
of Melbourne's west.
The Sunshine Health, Wellbeing and
Education Precinct (SHWEP) is the premier
location for health facilities, wellbeing and
education serving the western region. It will
become a mixed-use precinct that capitalises
on the hospital with a mix of health,
wellbeing and education use and supporting
residential development for workers.
Sunshine
Station
New
Community
Sunshine
CBD
Albion
Quarter
Victoria University
St Albans
Development
Victoria
Cairnlea
Development
Victoria
Luma
Braybrook
Regeneration
Project
Victoria
University
Sunshine
Health
Wellbeing &
Education
Precinct
Sunshine Energy Park will maximise
the benefits from significant
government investment.
LOCAL CONTEXT
Victoria University
St Albans
Development
Victoria
Cairnlea
Development
Victoria
Luma
Braybrook
Regeneration
Project
Health
Wellbeing &
Education
Precinct
Victoria
University
Sunshine
Victoria University
St Albans
Development
Victoria
Cairnlea
Development
Victoria
Luma
Braybrook
Regeneration
Project
Health
Wellbeing &
Education
Precinct
Victoria
University
Sunshine
Victoria University
St Albans
Development
Victoria
Cairnlea
Development
Victoria
Luma
Braybrook
Regeneration
Project
Health
Wellbeing &
Education
Precinct
Victoria
University
Sunshine
Sunshine Precinct - 1600m radius of stations
Indicative Sunshine NEIC (Boundary as per
Draft Western Metro Region)
Waterway
Road network
Open Space
Railway
Railway Station
Sunshine Metropolitan Activity Centre
Sunshine Energy Park
Albion Quarter Structural Plan Study Area
Legend
Modified diagram of Department of Transport and Planning, Sunshine Precinct Opportunity Statement Document November 2021, Figure 2
6 Transforming Brimbank
Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan 2024 7
Brimbank Council Meeting No. 633 21 May 2024
18 of 144
Attachment 12.13.1
VISION
Sunshine Energy Park will
be a catalyst for Sunshine’s
renewal, embedding a
high-performing urban
parkland at its core that
inspires community well
being, biodiversity, and
environmental innovation.
Sunshine Energy Park will become a vibrant
urban parkland that demonstrates ecological
resilience.
The Park will be planned around eight
interconnected precincts, each with a
diverse character, offering a range of
activities that take full advantage of each
area's unique features. These precincts will
be linked by a comprehensive network of
walking and cycling paths, as well as a series
of new entry points that will stitch it back
into the Sunshine Precinct.
The design will prioritise inclusivity,
employing gender-sensitive planning to
ensure a safe and welcoming environment
for everyone, celebrating all aspects of
human and cultural diversity. With family
friendly amenities scattered throughout, it
will address the varied interests and needs
of the community.
Collaboration with the Wurundjeri Elders
will guide the incorporation of Indigenous
values and narratives into the park’s
design. Local wildlife motifs will animate
children’s play areas, and spaces for learning
and signs will narrate the area's history
and the community’s aspirations for the
future. Art installations and thoughtfully
designed landscapes will serve as mediums
for storytelling, functioning as platforms
for environmental education, highlighting
the commitment to ‘healing the land’ and
sustainable living.
Conservation and Wildlife Area
Existing Club Rooms
(new entry from Carrington Drive)
Operation Centre
Enclosed Dog Park
At Grade Car Park
Sustainability Hub
Sport Fields and Pavilion
All Ages and Abilities Play
Pump and BMX Tracks
Mountain Bike Tracks
Sports Fields (Solar Farm interim use)
Stadium
Landmark Artwork
Park Entry Point
(for Pedestrians and Cyclists)
01.
02.
03.
04.
05.
06.
07.
08.
09.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
01
01
01
01
01
02
03
04
05
06
05
07
08
08
10
11
12
13
14
14
14
13
09
HULETT STREET
CARRINGTON DRIVE
BALLARAT ROAD
PEDESTRIAN &
CYCLIST PATH
UNDER M80
WESTERN RING ROAD (M80)
DENTON AVE
JONES CREEK
STONY CREEK
ST ALBANS ROAD
ST ALBANS ROAD
RAILWAY LINE
RAILWAY LINE
14
14
14
14
ALBION QUARTER
URBAN RENEWAL AREA
0
50 100
200m
8 Transforming Brimbank
Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan 2024 9
Brimbank Council Meeting No. 633 21 May 2024
19 of 144
Attachment 12.13.1
The vision for Sunshine Energy Park is
supported by three Core Pillars. These
Pillars, in conjunction with Council
Strategies, embody Council’s commitment to
cultural integrity, environmental resilience,
community vitality, and future-focused
innovation.
In particular, the Sunshine Priority Precinct
Vision 2050 outlines key aspirational
outcomes for what the Sunshine CBD and
Sunshine Priority Precinct could look like in
2050 including Sunshine Energy Park.
According to the Sunshine Priority Precinct
Vision 2050, "Sunshine Energy Park is
transformed into one of the western region's
premium parks."
Trans
forming
Brimbank
SUNSHINE
PRIORITY PRECINCT
VISION 2050
LEADING WITH VISION: A CITY READY TO SHINE
APRIL 2021
Acknowledging the land's history and
fostering its regeneration with a focus
on ecological restoration and cultural
appreciation.
• Partner with the Traditional
Custodians, incorporating their
perspectives to celebrate and learn
from the site’s Indigenous history.
• Shift the narrative around the
site’s past as a landfill into a tool for
education and deeper understanding
of environmental care.
• Monitor and manage local ecosystems
to protect and increase biodiversity.
Caring For Country
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Aboriginal Elder,Tom Dystra -Aboriginal
Cultural Heritage Strategy 2018–2023
Brimbank Biodiversity Strategy 2012 – 2022
CORE PILLARS
Creating an accessible and versatile space
that supports community health, invites
engagement, and offers opportunities for
learning and employment.
• Provide recreational and cultural
facilities that respond to Brimbank's
dynamic community profile,
supporting active and healthy
lifestyles.
• Design around accessibility and
diversity, nurturing social bonds
and cultural richness, reflective of
Brimbank’s Reconciliation Action Plan.
• Establishing pathways for youth
focused programs and job creation,
reinforcing the park’s role in fostering
community engagement and
economic vitality.
Committing to a resilient parkland through
sustainable practices, energy innovation,
and circular economic principles that benefit
the Brimbank community.
• Promote parkland resilience through
renewable energy, innovative circular
economy practices, and utility-cost
reduction, exemplifying the principles
of Council’s Climate Emergency Plan.
• Develop community partnerships for
sustainability projects and green
resource utilisation, supporting local
and regional economies.
• Create educational opportunities
around green living, promoting
resource conservation and
responsible consumption.
Sustainable Innovation
Inclusive Wellbeing
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Together We Are Brimbank
Council Plan 2021–2025
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Brimbank Climate Emergency Plan
10 Transforming Brimbank
Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan 2024 11
Brimbank Council Meeting No. 633 21 May 2024
20 of 144
Attachment 12.13.1
VISION:
THE PRECINCTS
12 Transforming Brimbank
Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan 2024 13
Brimbank Council Meeting No. 633 21 May 2024
21 of 144
Attachment 12.13.1
Hulett Street
Ballarat Road
Carrington Drive
Western Ring Road(M80)
St Albans Road
Railway Line
JONES
CREEK
KOROROIT
CREEK
JONES CREEK
STONY CREEK
UPPER STONY
CREEK
THE PRECINCTS
1 - Cultural and Ecological Precinct
Anchoring the park's commitment to Aboriginal
cultural heritage and habitat, this precinct
balances the preservation of indigenous
grasslands with the celebration of local culture
through art installations and a hilltop lookout
that offers panoramic views and a space for
reflection and communal gathering.
2 - Community Club Precinct
This precinct serves as the social heart of the
park, supporting a cluster of existing community
clubs that offer spaces for shared interests and
social interaction.
3 - Sustainability Precinct
Key features include a Resource Recovery
Centre, aimed at reducing waste through
recycling and repurposing initiatives, and a
Solar Farm that underlines the park's shift
towards renewable energy sources. It's a hub for
learning and innovation, demonstrating practical
applications of sustainable practices.
4 - Outdoor Sporting Precinct
With state-of-the-art sports fields and facilities,
this precinct is positioned to become a vibrant
community asset, supporting local sports groups
and offering ample opportunities for community
events and activities.
5 - Play Precinct
The Precinct includes all-abilities playgrounds,
a skate park, and dog-friendly areas. It's a
space that invites the community to enjoy the
outdoors, engage in healthy activities, and
connect with each other.
6 - Cycling Precinct
Designed to fuel active lifestyles and
sportsmanship, the Cycling Precinct features
mountain bike trails and a pump track, cementing
the park's role as a premier destination for
outdoor sports.
7 - Stadium Precinct
Envisioned as a multipurpose venue, the Stadium
Precinct is designed to host a range of sporting
and community events, providing a modern
space for gatherings and competitions that
support the local and regional economies.
8 - Water Management
Efforts in Stony, Jones, and Kororoit Creeks
focus on restoring natural habitats, enhancing
stormwater management, and building a strong
ecosystem that supports the park's diverse flora
and fauna.
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Attachment 12.13.1
OVERVIEW
The Cultural and Ecological Precinct include
the conservation and habitat corridor
connection to Jones Creek located on
northern land of the West Ring Road (M80),
and woodlands and grassland connecting
other precincts in the park, and space for
cultural gathering nodes.
These proposed habitat restoration and
natural experience areas will provide a
variety of habitat to support biodiversity and
connect with the Jones Creek cycling
and walking trails to offer opportunities for
recreation.
Native setting
Landmark artwork
Cultural gathering node
Conservation area
DELIVERING THE VISION
The Cultural and Ecological Precinct offers
the opportunity to engage with Traditional
Custodians and Community Groups to
tangibly deliver the Core Pillar of Caring
for Country. It includes enhancing the
park's connection to the local waterways,
increasing biodiversity, opportunities
to create artworks and to provide
interpretation of the site.
KEY PROJECTS:
• Native Grassland Setting:
Re
establishment of vegetation to protect
and enhance existing habitat corridors
and increase biodiversity
• Hilltop Lookout:
Creation of a hilltop
lookout to take advantage of the views
to Melbourne and the surrounding
mountain ranges. replaced by the
developing Sunshine Town Centre in the
foreground.
• Cultural gathering nodes and
signage:
The creation of cultural
gathering nodes and signage that
narrate the site's history and ecological
story,
• Landmark Artworks:
Major public
artworks that stand as a prominent and
identifiable symbol within the precinct.
• Connective Trails:
A network of
trails and boardwalks that facilitate
exploration and connection within the
park’s diverse natural landscapes.
0 50 100 200m
CULTURAL AND
ECOLOGICAL PRECINCT
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Hulett Street
St Albans Rd
CASE STUDY: YUNGGORENDI MANDE CULTURAL GATHERING SPACE
The Yunggorendi Mande Cultural Gathering
Space at Flinders University is a significant
project that has been in planning for over 30
years. The design, crafted through extensive
collaboration with the Kaurna community,
including Kaurna Elder Uncle Lewis O’Brien,
teaching staff, and students, emphasises
minimal impact on the land to reinforce
the healing of Country. The construction
required innovative approaches due to the
steep slopes of the university campus, which
resulted in a native landscape setting with
structural solutions that allow the natural
landscape to continue undisturbed beneath
the constructed areas.
The project exemplifies community and
environmental stewardship, evidenced by
the donation of over 200 bush food plants,
enriching the cultural significance of the
space. The Yunggorendi Mande Cultural
Gathering Space serves as an outdoor
teaching and learning area, hosts cultural
ceremonies, and provides a vital place for
Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities
to come together.
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Attachment 12.13.1
0 50 100 200m
OVERVIEW
Sunshine Energy Park will be home to a
series of community clubs, supporting a
variety of activities and fostering community
engagement. Currently, a number of local
clubs including The Deer Park Social Bicycle
Club, Western Region Pigeon Club, and
Melbourne Off Road Radio Car Club, have
expressed their enthusiasm about being
involved in shaping the vision for the future
of the park.
These community-oriented clubs are
keen to sustain their presence on the site,
contributing both with activity and passive
surveillance that enhances the overall
atmosphere. To support this collaborative
effort, this vision plan proposes to enhance
access and interfaces along Carrington Drive.
This improvement will benefit both the
existing clubs within Sunshine Energy Park
and other community clubs located on the
western boundary of the park.
DELIVERING THE VISION
With a focus on strengthening community
bonds, this precinct underpins SEP’s vision
of a connected and engaged community.
It provides a dedicated space for local
clubs and groups, enhancing community
ownership and engagement, and fostering a
sense of belonging through shared activities
and events.
KEY PROJECTS:
• Carrington Drive Access:
Infrastructure upgrades to improve
access and functionality, enhancing the
ease of travel for club members and
visitors within the precinct.
• Layout Enhancements:
Redesign of
the precinct's layout to better serve
community clubs, especially those
situated along the park's western
boundary, fostering integration and
collaboration.
• Club Engagement:
Active involvement
with local clubs to bolster their activities
and ensure their ongoing participation
and presence in the park.
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Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan 2024 19
COMMUNITY CLUB
PRECINCT
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Attachment 12.13.1
SUSTAINABILITY
PRECINCT
0 50 100 200m
OVERVIEW
The Sustainability Precinct is set to
demonstrate the shift towards a circular
economy by nurturing small-scale initiatives
that support this sustainable transition.
This precinct is planned to evolve into an
innovative sustainability hub that provides
educational and communal facilities. These
will serve schools, local businesses, and
other groups, fostering sustainable living
behaviours and facilitating the local sharing
economy and reuse of resources.
DELIVERING THE VISION
Through projects like the Resource
Recovery Centre and the Solar Farm, This
precinct directly advances the Sunshine
Energy Park's vision by operationalising
sustainability and innovation on the ground.
These initiatives demonstrate a practical
commitment to ecological restoration,
resource conservation, and the generation
of renewable energy. They serve as
foundational steps in creating a sustainable
environment that respects the land and
offers educational opportunities for the
community to engage in green practices.
CASE STUDY: CERES
CERES Community Environment Park in
Melbourne is an exemplar of sustainable
urban renewal, transforming a landfill site
into a flourishing ecological and educational
space. At its heart, the Horticulture Hub,
embodies principles of environmental
stewardship and community engagement.
Through hands-on workshops, community
gardening, and a market that supports
local, organic farmers, CERES cultivates
both land and societal health. It champions
biodiversity, water conservation, and
renewable practices, offering a living
blueprint for the Sustainability Precinct.
KEY PROJECTS:
• Standford Street Operations Centre
(SSOC):
Relocating the SSOC to expand
its footprint and include new amenities,
which is critical for enhancing operational
efficiency and offering training
opportunities within the park.
• Sustainability & Circular Economy
Community Hub:
An expanded centre
at Sunshine Energy Park is under
consideration, intended to act as a
centralised recycling drop-off point for
a wide range of materials. Potential
features include a Repair Café and
Recycled Goods Shop, aiming to foster
community involvement and provide
training opportunities, especially
for young people, in line with council
sustainability goals.
• Horticulture Hub:
A raised beds space
designed for community gardens and
food-growing partnerships, aligning with
the Council Plan's Health and Wellbeing
Priorities to improve mental wellbeing,
support healthy eating and physical
activity, and promote economic and
social inclusion.
• Solar Farm:
A feasibility study and
the business case for the Solar Farm is
completed. The business case indicates
establishing the solar farm in Sunshine
Energy Park is technically feasible but
not economically viable with current
technologies. Exploring different
business models and alternative
technologies in conjunction with solar
can be further investigated. Creating a
smaller solar system that’s expandable
for onsite generation can also be
considered in future study.
Operations Centre
Sustainability & Circular
Economy Community Hub
Horticulture Hub
Solar Farm (Interim)
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Attachment 12.13.1
0 50 100 200m
OVERVIEW
The Outdoor Sporting Precinct at Sunshine
Energy Park is set to cater to the growing
demand for multi-purpose sporting fields
and pavilions. It's been identified as
the future home of the Regional Multi
Sports facility, which will serve the local
community's increasing sporting needs. This
precinct will be designed for both structured
sports and casual recreational activities
such as walking, jogging, picnicking, and
children's play. It will provide extensive open
grass areas and a network of cycling and
walking trails that connect to surrounding
neighbourhoods, accommodating a wide
range of physical activities.
DELIVERING THE VISION
This precinct aims to make the Sunshine
Energy Park a sporting destination, driving
regional sports tourism and fostering
inclusivity through the provision of varied
sporting facilities.
It's structured to offer equitable sports
access, drawing in diverse demographics and
facilitating community cohesion through
active participation.
KEY PROJECTS:
• Multi-Purpose Sporting Fields:
To
accommodate a variety of sports and
meet the rising demand for participation,
with a special focus on creating
opportunities for female participation.
• Regional Multi-Sports Facility:
To
provide a central hub for local sports
events and activities.
• Informal Recreation Spaces:
Creation of spaces throughout the
park for activities like walking, jogging,
and picnicking, catering to diverse
community preferences for leisure and
physical activity.
CASE STUDY: ALBERT PARK, VICTORIA
Albert Park in Melbourne stands as an
exemplar of how urban parks can support
community sports and recreation. It
serves as a major sporting hub, housing
the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre
and around 20 sporting fields that support
approximately 42 sporting clubs, offering
activities such as AFL, baseball, cricket,
frisbee, and many more. Its facilities
accommodate a wide range of sports for all
ages and abilities, encouraging both social
and competitive play.
Additionally, Albert Park recently celebrated
the opening of a shared-use sporting
pavilion at Oval One, a development
designed to support greater access to
sports facilities for local clubs, with a special
emphasis on increasing sports participation
among women and girls. This pavilion
includes female-friendly change rooms,
community spaces, and a spectator area,
highlighting inclusivity and community
participation.
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OUTDOOR SPORTING
PRECINCT
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Attachment 12.13.1
PLAY
PRECINCT
0 50 100 200m
OVERVIEW
The Play Precinct is a dynamic area within
Sunshine Energy Park designed for
active leisure and community interaction.
Strategically positioned to bridge multiple
precincts, it offers a range of outdoor
activities that encourage social interaction
and physical engagement.
DELIVERING THE VISION
By offering a diverse range of interactive and
inclusive recreational spaces, this precinct
directly supports community wellbeing. It's
about creating environments that encourage
active lifestyles, social connection, and a
cohesive community fabric.
KEY PROJECTS:
• Inclusive Play Spaces:
Varied and
interactive environments where people
of all ages can engage in imaginative and
physical play, complementing the park's
natural landscapes.
• Skate Park:
A dedicated zone designed
for skaters of all skill levels, incorporating
various elements for both street and
transition style skateboarding.
• Outdoor Courts:
Multi-use game areas
marked for sports like basketball and
netball, serving as a social hub for friendly
competition and community-building
activities.
• Dog Park:
A secure, engaging area for
dogs of all sizes to play and socialise,
equipped with agility obstacles and
safe enclosures, fostering a pet-friendly
community space.
CASE STUDY: SUNVALE COMMUNITY
PARK
Sunvale Community Park in Sunshine is
a vibrant and welcoming space for the
community. It's known for its engaging play
spaces that cater to all ages. These include:
areas for skateboarding and scooting, as well
as interactive water features, lush green
spaces for relaxation or sports, shelters, and
BBQ facilities. The park also incorporates
artworks that reflect the local culture and
stories, promoting a sense of community
and participation. It's a destination for play,
community events and family gatherings,
and a key meeting place for Melbourne's
western suburbs families.
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Attachment 12.13.1
CYCLING
PRECINCT
0 50 100 200m
Primary shared path
Secondary shared path
Existing Walking and Cycling Path
OVERVIEW
The Cycling Precinct at Sunshine Energy Park
leverages the natural topography to create
a premier destination for cycling enthusiasts
while promoting inclusivity and accessibility.
This precinct is designed to make the most
of the park's varied landscapes, offering
challenging routes for experienced riders
and safer, gender-sensitive facilities that
encourage participation from typically
underrepresented groups, such as women in
mountain biking.
DELIVERING THE VISION
This precinct is designed to position SEP as a
hub for active transport and recreation. It's
a strategic move towards fostering a cycling
culture that is inclusive and expansive,
contributing to the park's accessibility
while promoting healthy living and reducing
vehicular traffic impacts.
KEY PROJECTS:
• Integrated Trail Network:
A network
of cycling trails branching out from the
Cycling Precinct to various parts of the
park, ensuring seamless connectivity for
cyclists.
• Mountain Bike Trails:
Challenging
trails capitalising on the park's natural
terrain, aimed at attracting both local and
regional mountain biking enthusiasts.
• Pump Track and BMX Track:
Dynamic,
skill-building tracks designed for various
ability levels, located adjacent to Hulett
Street for easy access and extending the
appeal of the park to a broader audience.
• Gender-Sensitive Facilities:
Equitably
designed spaces that promote safety and
comfort for everyone.
CASE STUDY: THE HILL MOUNTAIN BIKE PARK (WADAWURRUNG COUNTRY)
The Hill Mountain Bike Park in Geelong
serves as a pioneering example of an urban
bike park designed to cater to riders of
all abilities, setting a benchmark for such
facilities across Australia. It has transformed
a greenfield urban site into a multi-purpose
area that offers an array of tracks suitable
for varying levels of experience, from
beginners to advanced riders. The park
includes cross-country trails, a skills track,
a pump track, and a BMX track, all aimed at
safely progressing riding skills for a diverse
group of users.
Additionally, Geelong City Council's approach
to assessing the gender impact on mountain
biking facilities highlights the importance
of inclusive planning. This assessment
led to the realisation that both boys and
girls participate equally in mountain biking
activities until around the age of 13, at
which point there is a significant drop in
participation among girls due to social and
structural gender stereotypes.
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Attachment 12.13.1
STADIUM
PRECINCT
0 50 100 200m
OVERVIEW
A key drawcard of the Sunshine Energy Park,
the Stadium Precinct will accommodate both
a state-significant stadium and facilities
that address local and regional sporting
requirements. This area is positioned to
enhance the visitor economy and support
the growth of professional sports teams in
Melbourne's west.
DELIVERING THE VISION
The stadium precinct is envisioned as a
landmark that embodies community spirit.
It leverages the park's location to enhance
visitor experience and symbolises the
growth and vitality of the western region.
KEY PROJECTS:
•
State Significant Stadium:
A versatile
venue capable of hosting major events,
serving as a home for professional
sports, concerts, conferences as well as
regional and community events.
• Indoor Sports Facilities:
Courts for
high-demand sports like basketball
and netball, and spaces for badminton,
volleyball, table tennis, and futsal,
ensuring facilities meet the community's
broad sporting needs.
• Green Infrastructure:
Innovative
design incorporating green roofs and
walls to support biodiversity and meld
the stadium's presence into the natural
landscape of the park.
• Improved Pedestrian Connectivity:
Careful planning to create pedestrian
links to Albion Station, facilitating
convenient access for visitors and
encouraging sustainable transport
options.
CASE STUDY: COMMBANK STADIUM, PARRAMATTA
This project was part of a larger vision for
transforming Parramatta into a significant
city hub, promising enhanced amenities,
employment opportunities, and overall
economic activity. The redevelopment was
carefully considered to minimise the impact
on local businesses and to provide long-term
benefits to the city beyond the construction
period.
The stadium is now a 30,000-seat venue
with steep grandstands, designed to bring
fans close to the action and host a variety of
sports, entertainment, cultural, community,
and business events, creating a vibrant
atmosphere and contributing significantly to
the local economy and community spirit.
It was the first stadium in the world to
achieve LEED v4 Gold certification for
sustainability by the US Green Building
Council, reflecting its high performance in
areas such as innovation, water savings,
energy efficiency, and sustainable
material use during construction.
Features include the use of over 4,500
tonnes of Australian steel sourced within
18km of the stadium, over 90 percent
waste diversion from landfill, and the
inclusion of a 260,000-litre rainwater
tank for water efficiency.
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Attachment 12.13.1
0 50 100 200m
JONES
CREEK
KOROROIT
CREEK
STONY CREEK
UPPER STONY
CREEK
WETLANDS
OVERVIEW
Surrounded by Jones Creek, Kororoit
Creek, Stony Creek, and the Upper Stony
Creek Wetlands, the Sunshine Energy Park
stands as a critical area for the ecological
preservation of the region and water
sensitive urban design.
DELIVERING THE VISION
Centrally positioned amongst vital
waterways, the SEP is crucial for ecological
regeneration. It's a proactive approach
towards climate adaptation, ensuring SEP
serves as a blueprint for harmonising urban
development with natural water systems,
crucial for sustainable urban planning.
KEY PROJECTS:
• Stormwater Management:
An
efficient site stormwater management
system can effectively shed runoff from
the cap and minise the amount rainwater
percolates through to the waste mass.
• Integrated Water Management:
Embedding the principles of integrated
water management into the design of
each element within Sunshine Energy
Park and utilising storm-water that is
harvested in the Upper Stony Creek
Wetland to irrigate Sunshine Energy Park.
• Stony Creek Transformation:
A
revitalisation initiative that transforms
the area into thriving wetlands,
enhancing biodiversity and creating a
climate-resilient ecosystem.
• Jones Creek and Kororoit Creek
Rehabilitation:
Projects aimed at
restoring these crucial waterways to
health, supporting local wildlife, and
providing peaceful green spaces for
community recreation.
CASE STUDY: FRESHKILLS PARK, NEW YORK CITY
The Freshkills Park, once the world's
largest landfill, is now a landmark project
demonstrating sustainable water and
resource management in an urban park
setting. The transformation of Freshkills
from landfill to parkland involved innovative
strategies to manage and utilise water
resources, aiming to restore natural habitats
and support recreational areas.
The park’s design incorporates extensive
stormwater management systems to control
runoff and improve water quality, essential
for the revitalisation of the site’s creeks and
wetlands. These systems not only prevent
pollution from entering nearby water bodies
but also create habitats for local wildlife,
contributing to the park’s biodiversity.
A significant part of Freshkills' water
management strategy is the restoration of
natural waterways, which were previously
contaminated or rerouted. Rehabilitating
these streams and wetlands, allowed
ecological connectivity and provided new
recreational opportunities for kayaking and
fishing, making the site a model for urban
ecological restoration.
Freshkills Park’s development includes the
use of native plant species in its landscaping,
which requires less irrigation, thus
conserving water resources.
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WATER MANAGEMENT
PRECINCT
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Attachment 12.13.1
CONNECTING THE PRECINCTS:
PATHWAYS AND GATEWAYS
0 50 100 200m
To realise the vision for Sunshine Energy
Park, integrating the park with the
surrounding community through accessible
entry points and safe pathways for
pedestrians and cyclists is critical.
This plan identifies the opportunity of
extending Hulett Street towards Carrington
Drive as part of creating a welcoming
gateway into the park. Hulett Street’s
improvement will be an exemplar of
Brimbank’s Creating Streets For People
Policy. It will be a people focussed place
which demonstrates Water Sensitive Urban
Design (WSUD) principles, design excellence
and include extensive shade tree planting
for a cooler and greener environment.
The creation of new linkages is essential to
bridge existing barriers such as the railway
line and St Albans Road. These connections
would not only enhance access to the park
but also bind it more closely with upcoming
urban developments like LUMA and Cairnlea,
promoting the park as a dynamic community
space.
Hulett Street
St Albans Road
Carrington Drive
Ballarat Road
To Albion Station
400m
ALBION QUARTER
The redevelopment of Albion Station
is set to play a key role as the urban
gateway to Sunshine Energy Park. This
crucial redevelopment aims to provide an
integrated interface that uplifts both the
new park and the evolving Albion Quarter.
With the anticipated growth in residential
and working populations, the reimagined
Albion Station will become a hub of activity,
significantly contributing to the park's
accessibility and appeal.
The structure planning process for Albion
Station and the broader Albion Quarter is
advancing.
The success of this structure planning is
vital for ensuring the timely delivery of a
cohesive and revitalised Albion area, which
will complement and enhance the park's
development and its contribution to the
Brimbank community's well-being.
Existing pedestrian & cycle
entry points
Existing road connection
Potential pedestrian &
cycle entry points
Potential pedestrian & cycle
connection
Potential road connection
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Attachment 12.13.1
DELIVERING THE
VISION
Stony, Jones, and Kororoit Creeks Rehabilitation Ecological Corridor Cultural Gathering Nodes Landmark
Artworks
Connective Trails
Community Clubs
Mountain Bike Tracks
Inclusive
Playspaces
Parklands
Informal
Pump Track
Recreation Spaces
BMX Track
Skate Park
Indoor Sport Courts
Outdoor Courts
Multi-Sport
Facilities
Green Infrastructure
State Significant
Stadium
Sporting Fields
Dog Park
Sustainability & Circular
Economy Community Hub
Operations Centre
Solar Farm
Improved Pedestrian
Connectivity
Horticulture Hub
Caring For Country
Sustainable
Innovation
Inclusive Wellbeing
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Attachment 12.13.1
IMPLEMENTATION
The Sunshine Energy Park Vision is informed
by Council's strategies and policies, which
recognise the park as a culturally significant
place and a major environmental asset. The
Vision also acknowledges its obligations
to meet the objectives set out in Victorian
Government legislation and policies.
STATE STRATEGIES AND INITIATIVES
Victorian Government strategies, initiatives
and frameworks related to Sunshine Energy
Park and surrounding area include:
• Climate Change Act 2017
• Melbourne Water's Healthy Waterways
Strategy 2018
• Gender Equality Act 2020
• Victorian Infrastructure Plan 2021
• DEECA'S environmental policy statement
(2019)
• Sport and Recreation Victoria's Active
Victoria 2022-2026
• Environment Protection Authority
Victoria Strategic Plan 2022-27
• Victorian Wildlife Rehabilitation
Guidelines
• Priority Precincts and National
Employment and Innovation Cluster
(NEICs) - Sunshine
• Sport and Recreation Victoria's Change
Our Game, increase leadership and
participation by women and girls.
COUNCIL POLICIES
Council-adopted strategies and policies
provide clear direction and aspiration for
Brimbank City Council to address critical
challenges both now and in the future.
Council's policy context is a key driver for
the development of Sunshine Energy Park,
and the Vision must consider and respond
to the planned direction of services and
infrastructure, community services, and
advocacy.
• Together We are Brimbank Plan 2021
• Reconciliation Action Plan
• Climate Emergency Plan
• Sunshine Priority Precinct Vision 2050
• Sport Facility Development Plan 2023
• Indoor Sports Facilities Feasibility Study
2020
• Natural Heritage Strategy 1997
• Biodiversity Strategy 2012-22
• Habitat Connectivity Plan 2018-23
• Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Strategy
2018-23
• Industrial Land Strategy 2018-2030
• Creating Better Parks 2016
• Cycling and Walking Strategy 2016
• Activity Centre Strategy 2018
• Sunshine Town Centre Structure Plan 2014
• Urban Forest Strategy 2016-2046
• Economic Development Strategy
• Community Services and Infrastructure
Plan 2018-2038
• Creating Streets For People (2022)
• Brimbank Planning Scheme
SHARED OBJECTIVES
AND JOINT OPPORTUNITY
36 Transforming Brimbank
Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan 2024 37
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Attachment 12.13.1
2019 2022
NOW
2024
5 YEARS 10 YEARS 15 YEARS 20 YEARS
2050
30 YEARS 35 YEARS
Operational Activities - Ongoing Landfill Monitoring...
Improve Entries and key connections
Design and Delivery of projects within:
- Cultural and Ecological Precinct
- Cycling Precinct
- Sustainability Precinct
- Play Precinct
- Outdoor Sporting Precinct
Sustainability Precinct - Horticultural Hub
Sustainability Precinct - Solar Farm
Stadium Precinct
Draft Vision Plan &
Public Consultation
Advocacy - Funding &
Partnerships
Master
Plan,
Business
Case and
feasibility
Business Case,
Feasibility Study
Business Case,
Feasibility Study
Relevant approvals including possible planning approvals may be required throughout the timeframe.
ADVOCACY AND DELIVERY
The Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan
represents the aspirations and possibilities
for this new community space.
The size and ambition of this space is
unique and cannot be delivered in a
traditional manner. Significant work is
required between Council, potential
partners and the community to explore how
the vision can be realised.
It is expected that over the next 30 years,
each opportunity will take its own path to
implementation as partnerships and
funding opportunities are explored.
As private investment in housing,
commercial development and associated
services continue to grow across Sunshine
and Albion, developer contributions will play
a critical role in funding the development of
Sunshine Energy Park.
Council will undertake further work to
develop business cases and advocacy
approaches (subject to Council annual
budgets) for each zone to support external
funding opportunities and partnerships
with State and Federal Governments.
Business cases for each zone will further
explore feasibility, planning requirements
and detailed costings.
PROPOSED IMPLEMENTATION PLAN TIMELINE
[SUBJECT TO FUNDING]
38 Transforming Brimbank
Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan 2024 39
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Attachment 12.13.1
THE PARK AND
ITS CONTEXT
SITE HISTORY
WURUNDJERI LAND
EXTRACTION
LANDFILL
The Closed Sunshine Landfills, which
include the site of Sunshine Energy Park
and Carrington Drive Reserve, had ceased
accepting waste by 1990, with landfill
capping occurring progressively during
operation and to a final land-form after
closure.
Landfill gas extraction and power generation
infrastructure was established at Sunshine
Energy Park following the closure of the
landfill operation. A landfill gas power
station commenced operation in 1992, with
electricity exported to the State network.
Gas generation rates were later found to be
significantly lower than forecast, and power
generation became financially unviable.
In 2002, the generators were converted
to run on natural gas and used to target
peak payment periods while the site flare
continued to manage landfill gas emissions.
Power generation ceased altogether in
2009, and the generators were removed.
Since 2010, Council has coordinated with the
EPA and initiated numerous environmental
and health investigations. In 2013, an
environmental audit was completed for the
closed Sunshine Landfills, which led to the
preparation of aftercare management plans
implemented by Council.
Council commissioned civil works in 2012
to import soil to the closed landfill to create
a water-shedding profile and improve
drainage. This work has shaped the existing
landscape and surface levels at the site
today. Aftercare for the Closed Sunshine
Landfills will continue into the future,
involving environment monitoring and
control of residual landfill gas.
In pre-colonial times, the site was an
open grassland of the Victorian volcanic
basalt plains, home to the Wurundjeri and
Bunurong peoples. For the Traditional
Custodians, the lands in the City of Brimbank
have always been significant trading and
meeting places.
In the early 1900s, the site was the
Albion Basalt Quarry. Basalt quarried here
contributed to the construction and growth
of Melbourne and the surrounding areas.
From the late 1960s to the late 1980s,
the site operated as two separate stages
of domestic garbage and industrial/
construction waste landfill. The two landfills
comprised a number of exhausted quarry
pits with the deepest area thought to be
approximately 28 metres below the original
landfill cap level, which was installed
relatively flat. This combined landfills area
is known today as the Closed Sunshine
Landfills and includes Sunshine Energy Park.
REMEDIATION AND ONGOING MONITORING
THE PARK AND CONTEXT
40 Transforming Brimbank
Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan 2024 41
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Attachment 12.13.1
FUTURE USE ASSESSMENT
In 2019, Brimbank City Council engaged GHD
Pty Ltd (GHD) to undertake a preliminary
study of future use options for Sunshine
Energy Park. The purpose of the high-level
study was to inform future use planning
and assessed environmental, geotechnical,
statutory planning and urban development/
strategic planning constraints, opportunities
and requirements associated with three
broad potential future uses for the site. The
broad future uses were:
• Low impact use
– solar park or open
recreational parkland with no buildings or
underground confined spaces
• Medium impact use
– formal sports
fields/sports facilities with limited
enclosed structures or underground
confined spaces, such as clubrooms and a
small grandstand
• High impact use
– extensive built form
with extensive enclosed structures or
deep underground confined spaces,
such as enclosed sports stadium, mixed
use industrial, commercial or residential
properties
In 2022 to 2024, the Council developed
a draft Vision Plan for Sunshine Energy
Park which documents the planned
transformations to the site involving the
creation of a 74-hectare urban parkland.
The draft Vision Plan was prepared with
consideration of the guidance provided in
the Draft Technical Assessment Report
2019, and was reviewed and supported by
Vision Plan Review 2024 prepared by GHD.
WURUNDJERI LAND
BASALT QUARRY
OPENED
LANDFILL
CLOSURE OF
LANDFILL AND
CAPPING WORKS
ADDITIONAL CIVIL
WORKS
FUTURE USE
FEASIBILITY
ASSESSMENT (GHD)
VISION PLAN REVIEW
(GHD)
VISION PLAN
-60,000
EARLY 1900'S
LATE-1960'S-1990
1990
2012
2019
2024
2024
Feasibility and future
use possibilities outlined
within technical
assessment report. The
site identified as potential
option for regional sports
and indoor sports facilities
and in Transforming
Brimbank 2050 priorities.
PLANNING CONTROLS
The site is zoned Public Park and Recreation
(PPRZ) which recognises the area is for
public recreation and open space.
An Environmental Audit Overlay (EAO)
applies to land that formed part of and/
or adjoins the closed Sunshine Landfills,
which include Sunshine Energy Park and
Carrington Drive Reserve. The EAO provides
appropriate notice to landowners that
the land may be potentially contaminated
as a result of those past activities and
subsequent site remediation and require
an environmental audit to be completed
prior to the commencement of any new
sensitive use (playgrounds, residential, child
care centre, pre-school centre or primary
school) or buildings and works associated
with a sensitive use. The outcomes of an
environmental audit will inform any building
design and management controls necessary
to protect human health and may restrict
future development of properties within
the overlay. The cost and time to undertake
an environmental audit and potential
remediation of land may impact the viability
and types of future use and development.
The planning scheme also applies other
considerations for use and development.
This includes the need to consider threshold
distances for certain types of uses which
may have an amenity impact to the
surrounding area.
FEASIBILITY OF CONSTRUCTION
Feasibility and detailed design will be
required for development of the site,
including foundation design, gas barrier and
ventilation infrastructure as necessary.
Buildings will be located on landfill-free
areas where possible. High impact uses of
the landfill area would likely commence once
the site has stabilised. Landfill areas subject
to settlement can be developed for low
impact and open space uses with minimal
constraint.
Cut and fill for sporting fields in clean fill soil
is possible, and likely, but stormwater will
need to be managed to prevent ponding.
FUTURE GOODS RAIL LINE
The Western Goods Line (WIFT) proposal
is currently in development by the State
Government and includes exploring an
option of the future rail line extending
through the Sunshine Energy Park site.
This proposal is under consideration by the
State Government with no decision currently
being made on further assessment of the
option.
EXISTING SITE ELEMENTS
TRANSMISSION LINES
There are a large High Voltage power lines
running North West through the western
edge of the site. These are expected to
stay in place and the functions below
these will be in line with the relevant
requirements including no permanent
buildings or structures and no tree plantings.
Other smaller low voltage power lines
will be investigated for being relocated
underground as part of the development of
the site.
CLUBROOMS
There are a number of clubs who currently
have their clubrooms within Sunshine
Energy Park. These clubs bring activity and
passive surveillance to the site and these will
be encouraged to continue their presence on
the site. Alternative locations may be sought
for their clubrooms to gain better access and
interfaces with the park. The remainder of
the park is largely underutilised.
GAS MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
A gas extraction system is being
investigated to manage residual landfill
gas. Infrastructure will be fenced and made
safe. A temporary gas flare is currently in
operation. There are also monitoring wells on
the site that monitor the settlement of the
landfill which will be used in the planning and
design of aspects of the site development.
Where large flat areas are required for
ovals and other community infrastructure
additional clean fill would need to be
imported to the site. The integrity of the
landfill cap will need to be maintained.
42 Transforming Brimbank
Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan 2024 43
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Attachment 12.13.1
ROCK LINED SWALES
There are large rock lined swales around
the landfill cap which direct stormwater
away from the site to ensure water does
not infiltrate into the waste and generate
leachate which can impact groundwater.
TREE PLANTINGS
There are tree plantings around the edges
of Sunshine Energy Park which establish
an urban forest for greening, cooling and
habitat.
BUILDING PREVIOUSLY USED FOR ENERGY
PRODUCTION
There is a large building on the site that was
built in the early 1990s as a power station
for the generation of electricity from landfill
gas. The building is currently vacant despite
having several tenants over the past 15
years.This site is being investigated as being
a potential site for a resource recovery
centre.
THE PARK AND ITS SURROUNDINGS
Sunshine Energy Park is located in the middle of a number of key biodiversity corridors. Its
regeneration has the potential to establish the site as a key habitat node within the greater
ecological network of Brimbank and the Western Region. It lies in between two waterways,
Jones Creek to the west and Stony Creek to the east which represents a great opportunity for
water harvesting treatment and greater community connection to these natural systems.
LOCAL CONTEXT MAP
LEGEND
Watercourses
Parks & Gardens
Existing Vegetations
EVC Plains Grassland
Railway Corridor
Industry
Activity
Commercial
Sports Reserve
Public Use
Service Reserve
Residential
Existing Entry Points
Walking & Cycling Path
Main Roads
ENVIRONMENT
LAND
ACCESSIBILITY AND MOVEMENT
INDIGENOUS & COMMUNITY
ENGAGEMENT
44 Transforming Brimbank
Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan 2024 45
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Attachment 12.13.1
• Wurundjeri & Brimbank
City Council regular
meetings
• SEP project information
meetings
• Ongoing engagement
• with Wurundjeri
• with BATSIC
• Continue meeting on
Country
TRADITIONAL CUSTODIANS
The Wurundjeri and Bunurong people are the
custodians of the land in the Port Phillip Bay region,
including parts of our current City of Brimbank, for
over 65,000 years before European settlement.
The Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council determined
the northern part of Brimbank as Wurundjeri Land and
the southern part as Bunurong Land.
The north of Brimbank lies within the area occupied
by the Kurung-Jang-Balluk and Marin-Balluk clans of
the Wurundjeri people also known as the Woiwurrung
language group, who form part of the larger Kulin
Nation. Other groups who occupied the land in the
area include the Yalukit-Willam and Marpeang-Bulluk
clans.
RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN
The Innovative Reconciliation Action Plan 2019-2021
is Council's second RAP. It outlines priority actions
around key three themes and strategic directions are:
RELATIONSHIPS
Building and maintaining strong, meaningful and
respectful relationships with Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander community and network groups.
RESPECT
Demonstrating respect to the people and the culture
of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander as commitment
towards reconciliation.
OPPORTUNITIES
Working in partnership with other relevant
stakeholders to ensure that Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander people have equal access to local
opportunities.
The Council has an important role in the identification
and preservation of Aboriginal cultural heritage
through our planning mechanisms and in the ongoing
management of our significant cultural heritage sites.
Brimbank City Council adopted its Reconciliation
Statement of Commitment in April 2012 which laid
the foundation for the first Reconciliation Action
Plan (RAP) (2013-2017). Both the Statement of
Commitment and the RAP have contributed to our
reconciliation journey.
WURUNDJERI WOI WURRUNG CULTURAL HERITAGE
ABORIGINAL CORPORATION
• Continue to work together on the project and
meet On Country when possible
• Activate site with events
• Interpretative signage about the site’s history
• Space to lie on grass and look at sky
• Protect and encourage local fauna
• Artworks around the site by Aboriginal artists
• Reference to animals through art and play
equipment
Council has been involving Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung
Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation and The
Brimbank Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
Consultative Committee (BATSICC) in the preparation
of vision and design process for Sunshine Energy Park
(SEP) since 2021.
The stories and cultural values in the Sunshine Energy
Park, and the feedback on the Draft Vision Plan,
were sought via the conversations and involvement
through different communication methods:
ENGAGE MEANINGFULLY
WHAT WE HEARD
BRIMBANK ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT
ISLANDER CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE
• Priority is to meet with the Wurundjeri
• Space for bush tucker and other community
planting opportunities
• Consider importance of connection to water and
waterways
• Provide culturally safe gathering spaces, fire pits
and spaces for ceremonies
• Consider artworks and re-naming – to be led by
Wurundjeri
• Create a bush in the city for opportunity to be On
Country in an urban area
• Many opportunities for interpretation and
education
ONLINE MEETINGS
MEETING ON COUNTRY
Pictured: Five Elements
Source: Brimbank City Council
46 Transforming Brimbank
Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan 2024 47
INDIGENOUS AND COMMUNITY
ENGAGEMENT
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Attachment 12.13.1
A RANGE OF METHODS WERE USED TO PROMOTE
THE CONSULTATION:
YOURSAY BRIMBANK AND KEY STAKEHOLDERS
WORKSHOPS
14 WRITTEN STATEMENTS
46 PARTICIPATED
86 CONTACTED TARGETED STAKEHOLDERS
Social media posts
One on one meeting
Direct emails and phone calls to
stakeholders
YourSay Brimbank
Flyer mail drop to over 500
owner/occupiers within or
adjacent to the Sunshine
Energy Park
Face to face workshops
In December 2022, Council endorsed
for consultation a Draft Vision Plan for
Sunshine Energy Park (SEP). It is a long
term Draft Vision that, once approved, will
require partnerships and investment from
government, business and community to
bring this to life over the next 30 years.
A comprehensive stakeholder engagement
program ran from 21 June to 31 August 2023
alongside broad community engagement.
The engagement program sought feedback
on the Draft Vision Plan and to identify
ideas and potential opportunities from the
following:
• Properties (landowners and tenants)
adjacent to SEP and the Albion Quarter
Precinct
• Properties (landowners and tenants)
adjacent to SEP only
• Stakeholders, both local and outside the
City of Brimbank with a potential interest
in SEP
• Advisors - organisations and government
with experience of similar projects or
related expertise
• Government departments and agencies
• Elected government officials
• Brimbank Youth Council
• General community
FORMAL WRITTEN STATEMENTS FROM:
ALBION AND ARDEER
COMMUNITY CLUB
WHAT WE HEARD
KEY STAKEHOLDERS STRONGLY SUPPORT FOR
ELEMENTS THAT ADDRESS:
• Walking, cycling, and public transport
connections
• Environment sustainability
• Community gathering and social cohesion
• Health and wellbeing
• Supporting sports in Brimbank
• SEP as a destination
• Potential partnerships
MOST COMMON TOPICS FROM COMMUNITY:
• More balance between sporting and
passive recreation
• Opportunity for a dog park
• Ensure adequate car parking for facilities
• Opportunities to locate solar on roof of
buildings not take up open space
• Provide more passive open space
• Need active transport connections into
the park
The draft Vision
Plan will meet
the needs and
aspirations of
the community.
74%
“It's truly exciting. Great multi
purposing of the site. Great
inclusivity. Great vision. Bring it on -
can't happen soon enough. Thanks to
everyone involved with this ambitious
plan. It will really give the Sunshine
area a great public open space, which
everyone will be able to access, use
and enjoy.”
“The Energy Park appears to be a
fantastic opportunity for more green
space in the West! The variety of
precincts within the Park and the new
indoor space will be much appreciated
by local residents.”
“It is an ambitious and yet achievable
plan which will benefit the local
community and generations to come."
It will provide job opportunities for all
ages and will become a destination”
48 Transforming Brimbank
Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan 2024 49
COMMUNITY AND STAKEHOLDERS
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Attachment 12.13.1
NEXT STEPS
Achieving the successful completion
of Sunshine Energy Park depends on
collaborative efforts and securing
investments from relevant partners.
It will be critical to orchestrate the efforts
of various landowners and administrators.
Brimbank City Council will engage with
government bodies, the private sector,
and community members across a broad
spectrum of strategic projects. Such
collaboration will ensure the design and
development of Sunshine Energy Park
align with surrounding infrastructure and
areas, leading to unified and forward
thinking benefits for the city. Additionally,
the aim will be to secure support
for ongoing research, dialogue, and
involvement. This approach will facilitate
the identification of new opportunities
and challenges as the initiative progresses.
The Vision Plan acts as a crucial instrument
for cooperation, outlining both high-level
goals and actionable steps. It has enabled
interactions with government bodies and
interested parties and will continue to
foster these relationships as it advances
through subsequent planning and design
phases.
Feedback and input collected will be
scrutinised to determine and align with key
priorities and opportunities. A Partnership
and Funding Strategy, integrating
feedback from stakeholders, will be
developed and ratified in collaboration
with partnering entities. This strategy
will include commitments for funding
and serve as an essential component of
Sunshine Energy Park's business cases.
This document will detail the methods by
which Brimbank City Council plans to jointly
realise the ambitions of Sunshine Energy
Park over the next 20-50 years.
Brimbank City Council and Partners:
• Traditional Custodians
• The Victorian Government
• State Government agencies including:
• Development Victoria
• Parks Victoria
• Melbourne Water
• VicTrack
• Representative body of affiliated sport clubs
• Community Groups
• Property owners
Vision
Sunshine Energy Park
Tranforming
Brimbank Program
Brimbank City
Council Council Plan
Sunshine Priority
Precinct Vision 2050
Brimbank City Council
Strategies & Policies
Principles
Strategic Analysis and
Technical
Assessment
Engagement and
Consultation
Vision Plan
Individual project
design and
implementation
Master Plan
Seeking
Funding
Business Cases
50 Transforming Brimbank
Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan 2024 51
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Attachment 12.13.1
PREPARED OCTOBER 2022
412 –1122
BRIMBANK
CITY COUNCIL
TELEPHONE
9249 4000
EMAIL
info@brimbank.vic.gov.au
POST
PO Box 70, SUNSHINE VIC 3020
WEB
brimbank.vic.gov.au
HEARING OR SPEECH
IMPAIRED?
TTY dial
133 677
Speak and listen
1300 555 727
relayservice.gov.au
, then enter
03 9249 4000
FIND US ON FACEBOOK, TWITTER
AND YOUTUBE
facebook.com/brimbankcouncil
twitter.com/brimbankcouncil
youtube.com/brimbankcitycouncil
131 450
LOCAL CALL COSTS APPLY
Prepared March 2024
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Attachment 12.13.1
Vision Plan Review
Sunshine Energy Park
Brimbank City Council
14 May 2024
The Power of Commitment
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Attachment 12.13.2
The Power of Commitment
Project name
Sunshine Energy Park - Settlement Monitoring
Document title
Vision Plan Review | Sunshine Energy Park
Project number
12613973
File name
12613973_REP000_Sunshine_Energy_Park-Vision_Plan_Review.docx
Status
Code
Revision Author
Reviewer
Approved for issue
Name
Signature Name
Signature Date
S3
A (DRAFT) D. Hewawasamge
T. Duncan
M. Lazzaro
J.Throssell
M. Lazzaro
5 April
2024
S3
B (DRAFT) D. Hewawasamge
T. Duncan
M. Lazzaro
J.Throssell
M. Lazzaro
8 May
2024
S3
0
D. Hewawasamge
T. Duncan
M. Lazzaro
J.Throssell
M. Lazzaro
14 May
2024
GHD Pty Ltd | ABN 39 008 488 373
Contact: Dilshan Hewawasamge, Geotechnical Engineer | GHD
180 Lonsdale Street, Level 9
Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
T
+61 3 8687 8000 |
F
+61 3 8732 7046 |
E
melmail@ghd.com |
ghd.com
[Compliance statement]
© GHD 2024
This document is and shall remain the property of GHD. The document may only be used for the purpose for
which it was commissioned and in accordance with the Terms of Engagement for the commission. Unauthorised
use of this document in any form whatsoever is prohibited.
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Attachment 12.13.2
GHD | Brimbank City Council | 12613973 | Vision Plan Review i
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Attachment 12.13.2
GHD | Brimbank City Council | 12613973 | Vision Plan Review ii
Contents
1. Introduction
1
1.1 Background
1
1.2 Purpose
3
1.3 Scope of work
3
1.4 Limitations
4
2. Site Setting
5
2.1 Site Zoning
5
2.2 Site History and Details
6
2.3 Soil Filling Works
7
2.4 Landfill Gas Extraction
7
2.5 Environmental Impacts
8
Landfill gas generation
8
Leachate generation
8
Stormwater management
8
Land settlement
9
Capping / soil material on site
9
2.6 EHS Support Environmental Audit
9
2.7 Environmental Audit Overlay
9
2.8 Duty to Manage
10
3. Environmental trends
11
3.1 Landfill Gas
11
3.1.1 Subsurface landfill gas monitoring
11
Assessment levels
11
In-waste bores (LB02 and LB03)
11
Perimeter bores – Southern, Eastern and Western Boundary Bores
13
Southern Boundary (GW107, GW108 and GB19 to GB29) & GW115
14
Eastern Boundary (GB18)
15
Western Boundary (GB2, GB30 and GB31)
16
3.1.2 Surface and penetrations emissions
16
Monitoring network
16
Assessment levels
16
Surface methane and penetration emissions results
16
3.1.3 Buildings and underground services monitoring
17
3.2 Assessment of subsurface landfill gas risks
17
3.3 Groundwater and leachate
18
Groundwater
18
Groundwater environmental values and quality
20
Leachate levels
20
Groundwater and leachate considerations
20
4. Environmental review of Vision Plan
21
5. Geotechnical considerations
24
5.1 Geotechnical context
24
5.2 ‘Landfill-free area’
24
5.3 ‘Landfill area’
25
Settlement
25
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Attachment 12.13.2
GHD | Brimbank City Council | 12613973 | Vision Plan Review iii
6. Geotechnical review of Vision Plan
26
6.1 Development in ‘landfill-free’ and ‘transition’ areas
26
6.2 Low impact use in ‘landfill area’
26
6.3 Medium and High impact use in ‘landfill area’
27
7. Closing remarks
29
8. References
30
Table index
Table 1
Revised Draft Vision [5] Plan Summary
2
Table 2
Subsurface landfill gas concentration ranges for in-waste bores
11
Table 3
Subsurface landfill gas concentration ranges for southern boundary bores
14
Table 4
Environmental review of revised draft Vision Plan
23
Table 5
Geotechnical review of revised Draft Vision Plan [5]
28
Figure index
Figure 1
Site and surrounding zoning
6
Figure 2
Site plan
7
Appendices
Appendix A Figures
Appendix B Revised Draft Vision Plan
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Attachment 12.13.2
1. Introduction
1.1 Background
In 2019 Brimbank City Council (the Council) engaged GHD to undertake a preliminary technical assessment of
future use options for the Sunshine Energy Park (SEP) (herein referred to as the Draft TAR) [1]. The options
assessment consisted of a high-level study to inform the planning for future use, assessing environmental,
geotechnical, statutory planning and urban development constraints associated with potential uses for SEP. The
options assessment examined three broad future uses:
– Low impact use – solar park or open recreational parkland with no buildings or underground confined spaces.
– Medium impact use – formal sports fields/sports facilities with limited enclosed structures or underground
confined spaces, such as clubrooms and a small grandstand.
– High impact use – extensive built form with extensive enclosed structures or deep underground confined
spaces, such as enclosed sports stadium, mixed use industrial, commercial or residential properties
The Draft TAR [1] identified settlement as a key geotechnical constraint for planned development at the SEP site
and as such identified settlement monitoring to be a ‘minimum required activity’ regardless of future use options
adopted. In 2019 GHD installed nine extensometers across the SEP site to monitor settlement with the results
presented in a separate GHD report [2].
In 2022 the Council developed a draft Vision Plan [3] for SEP which documents the planned transformations to the
site involving the creation of a 54-hectare urban parkland. It is understood that the Vision Plan was prepared with
consideration of the guidance provided in the Draft TAR.
The draft Vision Plan divided Sunshine Energy Park into different zones based on the proposed future land use.
The original draft Vision Plan was issued publicly in December 2022 and included details of the vision including
description of the interconnecting zones. The zones within the draft Vision Plan include new connections to the
park, expansion of Hulett Street, mountain bike trails, a hilltop lookout, solar farm, an indoor stadium and outdoor
sports fields, a playground and wetlands. The draft Vision Plan was revised in December 2023 (Revision 4, [4])
and April 2024 [5], and included modification to the zones and expansion of the plan to include an additional zone
to the north of the Western Ring Road (M80).
These zones presented on the revised draft Vision Plans [5] & [4] are summarized in Table 1 with the description
provided based on content within the draft Vision Plan [3].
A copy of the April 2024 Vision Plan is presented in Appendix B.
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Attachment 12.13.2
Table 1
Revised Draft Vision [5] Plan Summary
Area
ID
Use Scenario
Description
1 Conservation and
Wildlife Area
Revegetation, hilltop look-out, cultural gathering nodes using natural materials, signage,
trails and boardwalks
2 Existing Club Rooms
(new entry from
Carrington Drive)
Re-aligned and sealed access road to existing buildings
3 Operations Centre Office buildings, sheds for machinery, sealed car parks and hard stand areas
4 Enclosed Dog Park Fenced area with seating, drinking fountain, shelter, agility equipment, rocks and logs and
gravel pathways
5 At Grade Car Park Sealed car park with line-marking
6 Sustainability Hub Small scale recycling for household items that can be re-purposed or have components
that can be recycled. Could include cafes, shops, raised food growing beds and a spaces
for training and education.
7 Sport Fields and
Pavilion
Multi-purpose sporting fields and pavilions.
8 All Ages and Abilities
Play Precinct
Large playground for all ages and abilities, multi-use courts, skate park, drinking fountains,
seating and shade structures
9 Pump and BMX
Tracks
Pump track is an undulating dirt track. BMX track is an undulating asphalt track
10 Mountain Bike Tracks Mountain bike trails that are accessible to people with all riding abilities. The trails will
connect to Hulett Street and trail network throughout the park
11 Sports Fields (Solar
Farm interim use)
Plan indicates the sports fields will not include a grandstand or pavilion and the area may
be utilised for solar farms in the interim timeframe.
12 Stadium
Development of a multipurpose indoor stadium for regional and local benefits.
13 Landmark Artwork Large artwork that has requirement for footings
14 Park Entry Point
Connecting Sunshine Energy Park to surrounding neighbourhoods. Connections will need
to be made over barriers including railway line, St Albans Road and Western Ring Road.
Neighbourhoods.
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Attachment 12.13.2
1.2 Purpose
The purpose of this report is to provide Council a document which assesses the draft TAR timeframes and
determines if improvement works and developments can be undertaken on the site.
This report only considers the environmental and geotechnical aspect in assessing and commenting on the
proposed use scenario and associated timeframes.
1.3 Scope of work
The scope of work completed was outlined in the GHD prepared proposal, submitted to the Council on 16 January
2024 and allowed for a high-level review of the proposed development against recommendations provided in the
draft TAR.
The high-level review includes:
– Incorporation of settlement monitoring data and comments on current settlement rates of the landfill mass.
– Review of settlement monitoring and environmental data collected subsequent to the Draft TAR and
compare data trends to the recommendations outlined in the Draft TAR regarding proposed development
locations and expected development timelines.
– Identification of key additional geotechnical and environmental risks which may have become apparent
based on data collected subsequent to the Draft TAR.
The scope of work includes the preparation of a report (This Report) documenting the outcomes of the review
including:
– Review the proposed development locations against recommendations provided in the Draft TAR.
– Compare timeframes for end use scenarios presented in the Draft TAR against proposed development
and settlement monitoring data to date.
– Review of proposed development locations against settlement monitoring and environmental data to date
which has been collected by GHD subsequent to the Draft TAR.
– Identify additional broad environmental and geotechnical risks which may have become apparent since the
Draft TAR based on data collected by GHD in subsequent investigations.
– Comment on the Environmental Audit Overlay (EAO) requirements which have been applied to the subject
site subsequent to the TAR.
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Attachment 12.13.2
1.4 Limitations
This report: has been prepared by GHD for Brimbank City Council and may only be used and relied on by Brimbank City
Council for the purpose agreed between GHD and Brimbank City Council as set out in section 1.3 of this report.
GHD otherwise disclaims responsibility to any person other than Brimbank City Council arising in connection with this report.
GHD disclaims responsibility to any person other than Brimbank City Council arising in connection with this Report. Any use of,
or reliance on, the Report by any third party is at the risk of that party. GHD also excludes implied warranties and conditions, to
the extent legally permissible. The services undertaken by GHD in connection with preparing the Report were limited to those
specifically detailed in the Report and are subject to the scope limitations set out in the Report.
Before making any decision to act to any extent on any information in this Report, you should make your own enquiries and
seek your own professional advice or exercise your own professional skill, experience and judgment as to the suitability of any
application of the information provided in this Report for your particular needs, objectives and circumstances.
The services undertaken by GHD in connection with preparing this report were limited to those specifically detailed in the report
and are subject to the scope limitations set out in the report.
The opinions, conclusions and any recommendations in this report are based on conditions encountered and information
reviewed at the date of preparation of the report. GHD has no responsibility or obligation to update this report to account for
events or changes occurring subsequent to the date that the report was prepared.
The opinions, conclusions and any recommendations in this report are based on assumptions made by GHD described in this
report. GHD disclaims liability arising from any of the assumptions being incorrect.
No claim or representation (including as to the accuracy, reliability or completeness of the information or any part of it) is made
or guarantee or warranty given, express or implied, given by GHD or Brimbank City Council in relation to any of the information
in this Report.
Your use of this Report is entirely at your own risk and responsibility.
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Attachment 12.13.2
2. Site Setting
The following section provides a brief summary of the history and site details of SEP. Numerous environmental
investigations have taken place regarding the former landfill, with much of the information presented in the site’s
Framework Rehabilitation Plan and Aftercare Management Plan [6], Technical Assessment Report [4] and
associated monitoring reports. These reports should be referred to for further and detailed information on SEP.
2.1 Site Zoning
The site falls within the greater area associated with the Sunshine National Employment and Innovation Cluster
and is bounded to the north by the Western Ring Road and to the east by the Sydenham rail line. The site and
surrounds are subject to the provisions of the Brimbank Planning Scheme, with current site zoning for the site
associated with parks and recreational uses (Public Parks and Recreation Zone (PPRZ) and a small portion zoned
for Public Uses (PUZ6), associated with Local Government purposes.
Industrial land uses zoned Industrial 1 Zone (IN1Z) surround the site to the south and to the east across the
Sydenham rail line, which is subject to the Public Use Zone 4 (PUZ4). Typically, the IN1Z zone provides for a wide
range of industrial uses (with associated amenity considerations). Land within the Industrial 3 Zone (IN3Z) is
located to the west of the site. One of the purposes of the IN3Z is to provide a buffer between the IN1Z and IN2Z
and the surrounding community.
Mixed Uses (MUZ) associated with the former City West Water site lies to east across the rail line. Residential
uses generally lie further afield of the site and the Sunshine Metropolitan Activity Centre (Activity Centre Zone
(ACZ)) is located to the south, which plays a strategically important role in providing good access to major retail,
community, government, entertainment, cultural and transport services. Major roads (Road Zone Category 1
(RD1Z)) are located in proximity to the site, including the Western Ring Road adjacent to the north, St Albans
Road to the east of the rail line and Ballarat Road further afield to the south.
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Attachment 12.13.2
Figure 1
Site and surrounding zoning
2.2 Site History and Details
SEP is the site of the former Hulett Street Landfill. The site covers an area of approximately 40 ha, with the landfill
occupying approximately 22 ha. Prior to landfilling, the site operated as part of the Albion Quarry, a worked out
basalt quarry. The quarry opened in 1860 and is set within the extensive sheet flow basalt of the Newer Volcanics,
with rock thickness across the site expected to be in excess of 40 m.
The landfill operated between 1977 and the late-1980s under EPA Waste Discharge License No. HS1275, issued
on 23 October 1977. The license was revoked by EPA on 4 February 1990. The license allowed for the disposal of
domestic garbage, solid putrescible waste (other than domestic garbage) and solid inert insoluble waste. Disposal
of hazardous wastes and liquids was prohibited.
The quarrying operations worked out three voids or holes, referred to as Quarry Hole No. 5, 6 and 7. The main
landfill is known to have operated in Quarry 6. The smaller quarry holes (5 and 7) are understood to have received
mainly construction wastes. Quarry hole 6 was by far the largest, having accepted an estimated 3.5 to 4 million
cubic meters of waste.
While the depth of the main landfill is unknown, the drilling of two leachate bores found waste from the previous
top of cap (i.e. prior to soil filling above the landfill cap – refer to section 2.3 below) to depths of approximately 28
meters. Underlying this, the natural geology was found to be slightly weathered basalt. The landfill site is
understood to be unlined, without an engineered barrier.
Following its closure, the landfilled waste was capped with material reported as “clay rich soils” of varying
thickness, ranging from 0.25 meters to 1.4 meters. It is expected that little quality control would have been applied
during the cap installation as was common practice at the time. Due to the effects of settlement of the underlying
waste mass, the landfill cap prior to the soil filling works was relatively flat, resulting in poor stormwater runoff.
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Attachment 12.13.2
Figure 2
Site plan
2.3 Soil Filling Works
In 2015, Council contracted the service of clean soil fill at the site in order to build a domed final surface, thereby
aiding stormwater drainage from the site. Based on the approved filling plan, approximately 468,000 cubic meters
of fill was to be placed to achieve the design contours. This would increase the height of the site to a maximum of
approximately seven meters above the pre-soil filling levels, sloping at a grade of 5% to the edges of the site.
Extensive rock fill has been encountered along the eastern boundary of the site, in an area where extensive
excavation is required to achieve the design contours. Due to the high cost, Council decided to retain the rock fill in
its present location. This required the filling plan to be modified and will likely limit future use of this part of the site
to open recreational parkland or similar.
2.4 Landfill Gas Extraction
Landfill gas extraction and power generation infrastructure was established at SEP following the closure of the
landfill operation. A landfill gas power station commenced operation in 1992, with the objective of generating
electricity from landfill gas collected from SEP and another former landfill to the north (now known as Carrington
Drive Reserve). Unfortunately, gas generation rates were too low to make power generation financially viable, and
in 1998 Council notified EPA of their intent to close the power station.
The landfill gas engines were removed from the power station in 2009. Extraction (from vertical extraction wells)
and flaring of landfill gas from the site continued until sometime in 2011 when the gas flare was severely
vandalized so that it was no longer operational.
The gas extraction system is still present onsite, with many of the vertical wells having been extended and
protected during the soil filling works. However, the flow and header lines are no longer serviceable and would
need to be reconstructed to service the remaining functional vertical walls.
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Attachment 12.13.2
According to the site’s Aftercare and Management Plan, landfill gas extraction is to recommence following the
completion of soil filling works. For this reason, the extraction system, including wells, will need to be maintained,
as well as the groundwater, leachate and landfill gas monitoring infrastructure across the site.
2.5 Environmental Impacts
Landfill gas generation
As the waste mass continues to decompose, landfill gas (largely comprising of methane and carbon dioxide) will
continue to be generated. Gas can migrate offsite via diffusion (concentration differences) and advection (pressure
differences). As the landfill is unlined, landfill gas within the waste mass needs to be managed to prevent it
migrating either directly out of the cap, or laterally in the subsurface.
If methane and carbon dioxide accumulate in confined spaces, they can pose a toxicity, asphyxiation or even an
explosive risk (methane only).
As outlined in the TAR the two key pathways for gas migration to impact on any future development at SEP are via
direct gas migration from the cap, or by migrating beyond the extent of the landfill then entering a penetration or
pathway (such as a conduit or underground structure) where landfill gas can accumulate. Methane and carbon
dioxide can also dissolve in groundwater and migrate offsite via leachate, however this is not expected to be a
main pathway within the confines of SEP.
Although the landfill closed almost 34 years ago, landfill gas is still being generated at SEP, and this is expected to
continue for decades, albeit at a declining rate. The peak rate of landfill gas generation is expected to have
occurred shortly after closure.
A landfill gas generation model prepared by GHD for an earlier site investigation (GHD 2012) indicated that landfill
gas the generation rate is in decline and will be reaching near negligible amount by 2050. The model suggested
that biodegradation of the waste will continue for another 20 to 30 years. Although it is noted that gas generation
can rise intermittently. A former operational staff member of Brimbank City Council who was interviewed as part of
an earlier investigation, explained that the gas generation would often spike after a few days of heavy rainfall. This
was considered to be due to the cap being permeable, at least in parts of the site. Furthermore, sections of the
waste mass are expected to be compartmentalised, the effect of which is that gas generation could be occurring at
different rates across the landfill. This was observed during earlier drilling works by GHD, when a pressurised
pocket of landfill gas was penetrated with a bore drilling rig, sending gas and leachate well beyond the ground
surface.
Leachate generation
The landfill is described in the 2023 Audit report as being a ‘sub-watertable’ landfill, meaning that the waste mass
intersects the groundwater. Groundwater inflows from up and cross gradient into the landfill are therefore a major
source of leachate generation, as outlined in the GHD 2014 report. This is considered to be the primary leachate
generation mechanism for the site.
If rainwater percolates through cover and capping material, it can collect contaminants as it passes through the
waste mass, becoming leachate. Leachate generation from rainfall can be managed by maintaining a low
permeability cap or geosynthetic clay liner (GCL) and an efficient stormwater management system that effectively
sheds runoff from the cap, minimising the amount that percolates through to the waste mass. Vegetation also
assists in reducing infiltration. Grasses, trees and shrubs can greatly increase the evapotranspiration rate of a
landfill cap.
Groundwater and leachate monitoring is ongoing at and around SEP.
Stormwater management
As noted above, an effective stormwater management system is important to reduce leachate generation.
Furthermore, it can prevent damage to the cap such as gullying, erosion or scouring. The current stormwater
management system at the Site was constructed in mid-2021 and the site was revegetated with grasses in 2022.
The current construction of the landfill has created a fill dome with additional fill placed on top of the capping
material. This mitigates rainfall infiltration through the cap and into the waste mass, however given the slope
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Attachment 12.13.2
increases stormwater runoff at the perimeter of the dome profile. This should be considered when implementing
aspects of the Draft Vision Plan in areas which are near the dome perimeter.
Land settlement
As detailed in the TAR over time as the waste mass decomposes and compacts, the landfill will settle, often
unevenly. Placement of a load, such as a structure or the soil filling works undertaken at the SEP, can increase the
rate of settlement in an area of a landfill relative to other areas. This is known as differential settlement.
Landfill settlement (particularly differential settlement, where waste depth changes or interfaces with natural ground
such as at the edge of the soil filling works at SEP) will have significant impacts on gas and leachate infrastructure
requirements, surface and sub-surface drainage requirements, how construction interfaces with foundations, and
how sub-surface services are incorporated into the cap.
Capping / soil material on site
In 2015 Council engaged Earth Solutions Group (ESG) to import, compact and contour surficial fill soils which
comprised approximately 500,000 m
3
of clean fill material across the site. The soils have been tested by additional
investigations by Prensa and DRC Environmental to confirm that the soil is clean fill.
Other soils which are present on site (capping soils, surrounding soils and dumped material) may require further
assessment to determine if the on-site soil may impact the future use of the site.
2.6 EHS Support Environmental Audit
In 2023 EHS Support completed an Environmental Audit of the site which assessed the risk to the environment by
the former landfill (document reference: Environmental Audit Report – Sunshine Energy Park, 570A and 528B
Ballarat Road, Albion, VIC, EPA Reference ID: EA001086 (EHS Support, 2023)). The Audit was completed to
comply with the Post Closure Pollution Abatement Notice (PCPAN) (PCPAN Notice ID: 90007761) issued on 23
June 2017 and comprised a review of the GHD 2014 Aftercare Management Plan. A number of recommendations
were made with associated timeframes primarily related to ongoing monitoring of the site.
The TAR was completed prior to the 2020 Audit was completed therefore the outcomes of the Audit need to be
taken into account and align with the proposed future uses of the Site.
2.7 Environmental Audit Overlay
An Environmental Audit Overlay (EAO) is a planning tool applied by local councils and other planning authorities to
identify sites that have known, identified or reasonably suspected contamination or potential contamination. Under
the Victoria Planning Provisions an EAO indicates an environmental audit is required prior to that land being used
for a ‘sensitive use’ (i.e. such as developing housing, building a primary or secondary school, an early childhood
center and children’s playground).
For sites proposed for a sensitive use, either of the following will need to be undertaken (EPA 2023):
– A Preliminary risk screen assessment (PRSA) to determine if an environmental audit is required or
– Environmental audit to determine if the land is suitable for the proposed use.
An EAO has been applied to the SEP site. Given that the use of the site includes a children’s playground as
proposed in the Vision Plan, there will be a requirement to undertake an Environmental Audit in order to confirm
that the land is suitable for the intended use, noting the Audit could potentially be limited to the extent of the
playground or any other sensitive use. Given the historical land use, the data gaps on soil quality, the risks
associated with landfill gas and the proposed future land use it is considered likely that an Environmental Audit will
be required.
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Attachment 12.13.2
2.8 Duty to Manage
For any future developments at the site, Council will still need to manage the site under the ‘Duty to Manage’
framework outlined in Section 39(2) of the
Environment Protection Act 2017
(the Act). The duty to manage
contaminated land (duty to manage) – requires a person in management or control of contaminated land to
minimise risks of harm to human health and the environment from the contaminated land so far as reasonably
practicable.
Minimising risks of harm to human health and the environment from contaminated land includes (but is not
limited to) carrying out any of the following—
(a) identification of any contamination that the person knows or ought reasonably to know of;
(b) investigation and assessment of the contamination;
(c) provision and maintenance of reasonably practicable measures to minimise risks of harm to human
health and the environment from the contamination, including undertaking clean up activities where
reasonably practicable;
(d) provision of adequate information to any person that the person in management or control of the
contaminated land reasonably believes may be affected by the contamination, including—
(i) sufficient information to identify the contamination; and
(ii) the results of investigation and assessment referred to in paragraph (b);
(iii) the risks of harm to human health and the environment from the contamination
(e) provision of adequate information to enable any person who is reasonably expected to become a person
in management or control of the contaminated land to comply with the duty to manage contaminated land.
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Attachment 12.13.2
3. Environmental trends
The environmental monitoring at the site is generally completed in accordance with the Environmental Monitoring
Program (EMP) contained in Appendix G of the Framework Rehabilitation Plan and Aftercare Management Plan
(RAMP) [6], approved by the EPA-appointed Environmental Auditor, Mr Ken Mival.
Below is a summary of the environmental monitoring trends from 2019 when the TAR was developed to the most
recent round of environmental monitoring (September 2023). Where appropriate, a brief discussion on the overall
LFG trends is also included.
3.1 Landfill Gas
3.1.1 Subsurface landfill gas monitoring
Assessment levels
The 2021 environment protection regulations specify action levels for methane gas only (Schedule 3 of the
Environment Protection Regulations 2021). Prior to 1 July 2021, action levels for subsurface geology were
specified in the Landfill BPEM for both methane and carbon dioxide. Following the change in assessment levels,
the LFG monitoring results was assessed against the following action levels:
– Subsurface geology – perimeter monitoring bores approximately 20 m from the edge of the waste mass:
1.0% v/v above background for methane (Schedule 3 of the Environment Protection Regulations 2021)
– 1.5% v/v above background for carbon dioxide (Landfill BPEM).
In-waste bores (LB02 and LB03)
Table 2 below shows the concentration ranges (% v/v) for methane and carbon dioxide for the in-waste LFG
monitoring bores. It should be noted that the concentrations are taken from the stabilised gas concentration
measurements.
Table 2
Subsurface landfill gas concentration ranges for in-waste bores
LFG Bore 2014 – 2019 concentration
ranges (% v/v)
2020 – 2023 concentration ranges
(% v/v)
Trends identified
Methane
Carbon Dioxide Methane
Carbon Dioxide
LB02
3.6 – 28.8 2.9 – 15.3
15.7 – 51.2 10.1 – 16.9
Increase in methane concentrations
Generally consistent carbon dioxide
concentrations
LB03
30.3 – 83.0 0.9 - 16.3
67.8 – 91.2 11.2 - 16.9
Increase in methane concentrations
Flow rates in the in-waste bores were negligible, with flow rates recorded at 0.0 L/hr in all monitoring events
between 2020 to 2023.
To assess the overall trend of methane generation within the waste mass, a Mann-Kendall trend analysis was
undertaken for LB02 and LB03 for the available dataset. LB02 has reported no statistically significant trend for
methane or carbon dioxide concentrations. LB03 reported a statistically increasing significant trend for methane
concentrations and a statistically decreasing significant trend for carbon dioxide. The increasing trend for methane
is expected to be influenced by an abnormally low methane concentration in March 2017 (30.3% v/v), while the
remainder of the monitoring events reported concentrations generally around 70 – 80% v/v.
The 2023 audit report (EHS Support, 2023) details that peak methane generation occurred around 1990. The LFG
generation modelling which was undertaken suggests that the LFG generation is decreasing at the site. This is
consistent with the National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting (NGER) Method 1 methane generation model for
LFG generation in landfills. Therefore the lack of statistically significant decreasing trends present for LB02 and
LB03 can be attributed to the relatively short monitoring timeframe (10 years) compared to the LFG generation
decrease expected over time (decades).
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Attachment 12.13.2
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Attachment 12.13.2
Perimeter bores – Southern, Eastern and Western Boundary Bores
There are eighteen (18) perimeter bores located on Site:
– GB2 is located at the Go-Kart Track, installed approximately 110 m west of the waste extent
– GW115 is located at 570 Ballarat Road, installed approximately south 50 m of the waste extent
– GB18 is located on the eastern boundary of the Site, installed approximately 120 m of the waste extent
– GW107, GW108 and GB19 to GB29 are located on the southern boundary of the Site, installed either in
waste, or within 50 m of the waste extent
– GB30 and GB31 are located on the western boundary of the Site, installed within 60 m of the waste extent
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Attachment 12.13.2
Whilst not installed directly into the waste mass, GW108 is understood to be located in what is likely a former haul
road between the two former quarry holes (Quarry Hole 5 and Quarry Hole 6) which were landfilled with waste.
Southern Boundary (GW107, GW108 and GB19 to GB29) & GW115
Table 3 below shows the concentration ranges (% v/v) for methane and carbon dioxide for the southern boundary
LFG monitoring bores. It should be noted that the concentrations are taken from the stabilised gas concentration
measurements.
Table 3
Subsurface landfill gas concentration ranges for southern boundary bores
LFG Bore 2011 – 2019 concentration
ranges (% v/v)
2020 – 2023 concentration
ranges (% v/v)
Trends identified
Methane
Carbon Dioxide Methane Carbon Dioxide
GW107
0.0 - 0.1
0.0 - 9.3
3.6 - 7.0
8.1 - 18.0
Increase in both methane and carbon dioxide
concentrations
GW108
4.9 - 22.6
10.8 - 18.1
1.7 - 19.2
2.0 - 17.5
Slight decrease in methane concentrations
Generally consistent carbon dioxide
concentrations
GB19
0.0 - 0.1
1.3 - 2.8
0.0 - 0.2
0.8 - 4.1
Generally consistent methane and carbon dioxide
concentrations
GB20
0.0 - 0.1
1.7 - 1.9
0.0 - 0.2
1.8 - 4.4
Generally consistent methane and carbon dioxide
concentrations
GB21
0.0 - 0.1
11.4 - 12.0
0.0 - 0.3
4.4 - 14.9
Generally consistent methane and carbon dioxide
concentrations
GB22
2.3 - 2.8
8.1 - 8.4
0.0 - 3.1
2.8 - 10.9
Generally consistent methane and carbon dioxide
concentrations
GB23
0.0 - 0.2
0.7 - 3.5
0.0 - 0.4
1.3 - 6.8
Generally consistent methane and carbon dioxide
concentrations
GB24
0.2 - 0.3
1.0 - 4.9
0.0 - 2.4
2.7 - 11.5
Slight increase in carbon dioxide concentrations
Generally consistent methane concentrations
GB25
0.0 - 0.0
1.9 - 2.6
0.0 - 0.2
2.2 - 9.2
Increase in carbon dioxide concentrations
Generally consistent methane concentrations
GB26
0.0 - 0.0
0.8 - 2.3
0.0 - 0.2
1.2 - 5.3
Generally consistent methane and carbon dioxide
concentrations
GB27
0.0 - 0.0
2.2 - 2.3–
0.0 - 0.–
0.5 - 6.2
Slight increase in carbon dioxide concentrations
Generally consistent methane concentrations
GB28
0.0 - 0.0
2.7 - 9.2
0.0 - 0.3
3.0 - 8.5
Generally consistent methane and carbon dioxide
concentrations
GB29
0.0 - 0.0
0.5 - 0.9
0.0 - 0.4
0.7 - 1.9
Generally consistent methane and carbon dioxide
concentrations
GW115
0.0 - 8.0
0.9 - 9.3
0.0 - 0.0
4.5 - 6.8
Generally consistent methane and carbon dioxide
concentrations
Flow rates for the southern perimeter landfill gas bores were all negligible (0 – 0.1 L/hr) during the 2020 to 2023
monitoring periods.
Given the location of GW108, Mann-Kendall trend analysis was undertaken to identify if any statistically significant
trends in LFG generation could be identified. The analysis determined that there was a statistically significant
decreasing trend in methane concentrations, while carbon dioxide concentrations remained steady. This is
consistent with the NGER LFG generation model for the age of the landfill.
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Attachment 12.13.2
Eastern Boundary (GB18)
Table 4 below shows the concentration ranges (% v/v) for methane and carbon dioxide for the eastern boundary
LFG monitoring bore. It should be noted that the concentrations are taken from the steady measurements.
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Attachment 12.13.2
Table 4
Subsurface landfill gas concentration ranges for eastern boundary bores
LFG Bore 2019 concentration ranges (%
v/v)
2020 – 2023 concentration
ranges (% v/v)
Trends identified
Methane
Carbon Dioxide Methane Carbon Dioxide
GB18
0.0 - 0.0
2.8 - 3.7
0.0 - 0.2
0.2 - 5.2
Generally consistent methane and carbon dioxide
concentrations
Flow rates for GB18 was negligible, with no flow (0.0 L/hr) recorded.
Western Boundary (GB2, GB30 and GB31)
Table 5 below shows the concentration ranges (% v/v) for methane and carbon dioxide for the western boundary
LFG monitoring bores. It should be noted that the concentrations are taken from the steady measurements.
Table 5
Subsurface landfill gas concentration ranges for western boundary bores
LFG Bore 2012 – 2019 concentration
ranges (% v/v)
2020 – 2023 concentration
ranges (% v/v)
Trends identified
Methane
Carbon Dioxide Methane Carbon Dioxide
GB2
0.0 - 7.7
0.2 - 14.0
0.0 - 0.0
0.0 - 3.9
Decrease in carbon dioxide concentrations
Generally consistent methane concentrations
GB30
0.0 - 0.0
1.3 - 2.5
0.0 - 0.1
2.6 - 6.3
Generally consistent methane and carbon dioxide
concentrations
GB31
0.0 - 0.0
1.6 - 2.6
0.0 - 0.2
1.8 - 13.7
Slight increase in carbon dioxide concentrations
Generally consistent methane concentrations
Flow rates for the western perimeter landfill gas bore have historically been all negligible, with no flow (0.0 L/hr)
recorded.
3.1.2 Surface and penetrations emissions
Monitoring network
Surface methane emissions monitoring is undertaken annually across accessible capped areas of the Site.
In accordance with EPA Publication 1684, methane concentrations are monitored continuously along 50 m
transects at a height of 50 mm above ground level. For the purposes of this assessment, the entire landfilled area
is considered to have a final cap. A number of riser pipes, constructed as part of the landfill gas collection system,
were also assessed and considered as penetrations.
Assessment levels
Surface emissions monitoring results are assessed against the methane action levels specified in Schedule 3 of
the Environment Protection Regulations 2021 for landfill surface final covers and penetrations, as follows:
– 100 ppm within 50 mm of the landfill surface of the final cap
– 100 ppm within 50 mm of penetrations through the final cap
Prior to the gazettal of the Environment Protection Regulations 2021, action levels for surface methane emissions
were specified in the Landfill BPEM (the same as those specified in the Environment Protection Regulations
2021). EPA Publication 1684 notes the following regarding compliance with the Landfill BPEM action levels,
“EPA
will accept an average of the surface emissions data to be used for reporting compliance where the maximum
concentration below is not exceeded:
– Final cap, a mean of 100 ppm with no individual result exceeding 200 ppm
Surface methane and penetration emissions results
In the most recent 2023 monitoring event no methane surface emission or penetration exceedances above the
action levels were recorded. It was noted that methane was generally elevated (between 10 – 40 ppm) across the
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Attachment 12.13.2
top of the cap. This continues to highlight the effectiveness of the additional soil cover in 2021 on the existing
landfill cap in mitigating the vertical migration of LFG to the surface, either as a barrier or acting as an attenuation
pathway for biodegradation.
3.1.3 Buildings and underground services monitoring
Building monitoring was completed with accessible buildings on the western and southern perimeters of the Site.
The following buildings were monitored:
– St John’s Building (570A Hulett Street)
– Railway Club Buildings (570A Hulett Street)
– Power Plant Building (570A Hulett Street)
– Sunshine Roofing (Corner Hulett Street and Ballarat Road)
– Red Hot Car Sales (572 – 574 Ballarat Road)
– Nick Daniel’s BBQ (4 Hulett Street)
– Lamb Engineering (2 Hulett Street)
– Infrabuild Reinforcing (528 Ballarat Road)
– Infrabuild Steel (528 Ballarat Road)
– Westkon Precast (528A Ballarat Road)
Consistently in recent years (2020 to 2023) no exceedances of the Environment Protection Regulations 2021
action level for buildings have been recorded. Monitoring results indicate that ambient concentrations of methane
(i.e., < 5 ppm) have been recorded in recent years.
Underground service pits (such as Telstra pits) and stormwater drains were also monitored around the perimeter
of the former landfill. All monitored pits and services along Hulett Street were at ambient methane concentrations.
3.2 Assessment of subsurface landfill gas risks
Based on the high concentrations of methane and carbon dioxide recorded in the in-waste leachate bores LB02
and LB03, it appears that the waste in quarry hole 6 is still generating high concentrations of landfill gases. Of note
is the negligible flow rates recorded in the bores. This suggests that, although high concentrations of landfill gas
are being generated, the rate of generation is still low. An LFG Risk Assessment undertaken by GHD in 2020
assessed the LFG risk to the western and southern boundary properties which are off-site at SEP. This
determined that the risk was ‘low’ however noted that an additional LFG risk assessment would be required should
the site be developed in the future. An additional LFG risk assessment should be considered prior to
developments at the site.
The placement of the additional soil (i.e., soil cover) on the existing landfill cap is expected to be restricting the
upwards or direct emission of landfill gas (in particular, methane) to the surface and, thereby, potentially promoting
lateral subsurface migration.
However, historically there is no clear evidence that this is occurring in the southern, western, or eastern perimeter
bores. While elevated methane is still being consistently detected in GW108, this to be expected given that
GW108 is located over a haul road and is not considered a perimeter bore. Many bores installed within the waste
mass, or in close proximity to it (<20 metres) along the southern boundary, have recorded potentially elevated
carbon dioxide, but have typically not recorded methane in recent years.
It is also noted that the soil filling works do not extend the entire length of the landfill cap to the southern boundary.
It is therefore possible that, while the additional cover material is forcing landfill gas to migrate laterally, it is
‘leaking’ out of other areas of the landfill cap. These ‘leaks’ would be expected to be at very low rates as elevated
emissions were not detected along the edges of the soil filling areas in recent years surface methane emissions
monitoring (refer to 3.1.2).
Overall, in the absence of methane, the risks of carbon dioxide are relatively limited – toxicity and asphyxiation
risks from the displacement of oxygen in a building. However, for this to occur, regular high concentrations and
large volumes of carbon dioxide would need to migrate into a building or confined space. Based on the recorded
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Attachment 12.13.2
flow rates and gas concentrations along and beyond the landfill boundaries, this is unlikely to be a significant risk
currently at the Site.
As landfill gas will be an ongoing risk at the site, proposed control measures (such as vapour barriers and gas
alarms) for future land use which may realise an elevated risk of landfill gas (high impact use scenarios) are
required. These have been outlined in the TAR and are to be implemented in buildings and structures where
landfill gas can accumulate such as in enclosed spaces. The continued monitoring and suggested timeframes of
developments will assist in mitigating the landfill gas risks.
3.3 Groundwater and leachate
Groundwater and leachate monitoring is ongoing at and around SEP. A previous hydrogeological study concluded
that the risk of potential impacts to the most likely groundwater beneficial uses (primary contact recreation,
ecosystem protection) is considered to be low (GHD 2014). However, ongoing monitoring is required to verify this,
and detect any sudden changes in groundwater or leachate quality.
Groundwater
The potential for leachate impacts to groundwater can be assessed by considering the Mulvey Ratio (ratio of
cations). Groundwater exhibits elevated concentrations of the cations Mg
2+
, Ca
2+
and Na
+
whereas leachate is
dominated by K
+
and NH
4
+
. The addition of the dominant leachate cations divided by the sum of the dominant
groundwater cations is the Landfill/Natural (L/N) ratio, commonly referred to as the Mulvey Ratio (Mulvey and
Brisbane, 1996).
𝐿
𝑁
𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜 =
(𝐾
+
+ 𝑁𝐻
4
+
)
(𝑀𝑔
+
+ 𝐶𝑎
+
+ 𝑁𝑎
+
)
× 100
Natural groundwaters are expected to exhibit L/N ratios of around one, whereas leachate exhibits ratios greater
than 10. Leachate breakthrough during the anaerobic phase will be evidenced by an increasing trend in L/N ratios
in groundwater. Plate 1 below shows the Mulvey Ratios of groundwater bores and leachate bores within the
monitoring network. Which demonstrates that with the exception of GW107 spiking in mid-2022 the leachate
impacts to groundwater have remained relatively consistent over time. The Mulvey Ratio for leachate bores LB02
and LB03 could not be calculated from 2020 onward as the bores were reported as dry. The leachate bores have
historically reported significantly higher L/N ratios than that of groundwater. It should be noted that while there has
not been a significant increasing trend, there has also not been a decrease in Mulvey ratios either.
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Attachment 12.13.2
Plate 1
Historical Mulvey Ratios – Groundwater bores and leachate bores
Groundwater water levels over time in monitoring bores screened in the Upper Basalt Aquifer (UBA) are shown in
Plate 2. Groundwater levels measured at the site since the TAR was finalised are generally consistent with
historical water levels.
Plate 2
Groundwater levels, 2011- 2023 (Upper Basalt Aquifer)
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Attachment 12.13.2
Groundwater environmental values and quality
According to monitoring data collected from the upgradient UBA bore GW114 which is considered representative
of background water quality, the UBA is placed in Segment E. The protected environmental values for the UBA
include:
– Water dependent ecosystems and species
– Agriculture and irrigation (stock watering)
– Water-based recreation (primary contact recreation)
– Traditional owner cultural values
– Buildings and structures
– Geothermal properties
The background salinity of groundwater and current use of the site indicates that only the water dependent
ecosystems and species, water-based recreation (primary contact recreation) and the buildings and structures
environmental values have the potential to be realised.
While in the future buildings and structures may be constructed on the site it is also important to consider vapour
risks from hydrocarbon contamination in groundwater. A comparison of groundwater data from 2020 onwards
indicates that while there are detections of the F1 and F2 TRH fractions (associated with vapour risks) in some
groundwater wells, these are below the NEPM 2013 HSL residential (A/B), recreational (C) and commercial /
industrial vapour intrusion (D) guidelines.
A comparison to the AS2159 (2009) Piling Design and Installation assessment criteria reports some exceedances
of the guideline for chloride in GW107, GW108, GW115, GW117 and LB03. While these exceedances may not
preclude the placement of footings and pilings, further investigation is likely required to determine if additional
control measures are needed.
Leachate levels
In recent monitoring events both leachate bores have been unable to be gauged due to the landscaping works
undertaken on the cap of the site. The standpipe for both bores has also been extended, making comparisons to
historical data difficult. When able to be monitored again both bores have reported depths which are significantly
less than the original installation depth, indicating that the bores may be blocked. LB02 and LB03 were installed 31
m bgl and 29.6 m bgl respectively, whereas the 2024 March gauging results reported depths of 13.448 m bTOC
and 13.856 m bTOC respectively. Because of this leachate levels have not been able to be accurately assessed.
While unable to be assessed, the landfill cap may be effectively reducing the rate of infiltration of water into the
landfill, reducing the volume of leachate. Noting that the leachate impact on groundwater does not appear to be
decreasing (as shown in Plate 1, it is expected that leachate is still being generated by the landfill.
Groundwater and leachate considerations
While risk to future and current groundwater environmental values of the site is considered low, in general future
land use scenarios should aim to limit the generation of leachate. As outlined in the TAR this can include:
– Not allowing water to pool / accumulate on the capping material
– Maintaining a low permeability cap
– Efficient stormwater management systems
– Planting of vegetation to reduce infiltration
Currently the leachate and groundwater quality does not indicate a risk from vapour intrusion however some
locations do exceed the AS2159 (2009) Piling Design and Installation threshold for chloride. Further assessment
may be required to determine if control measures are needed, however it is possible that piles and foundations
may not intersect the water table.
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Attachment 12.13.2
4. Environmental review of Vision Plan
As outlined in section 2, the Vision Plan has divided Sunshine Energy Park into sections based on the proposed
future land use.
As outlined in the draft TAR [1] the potential broad future uses for the Site included:
–
Low impact use
— solar park or open recreational parkland with no buildings or deep human inhabited
underground confined spaces.
–
Medium impact use
— formal sports fields/sports facilities with limited enclosed structures or
underground confined spaces (basement structures), such as clubrooms and a small grandstand.
–
High impact use
— extensive built form with extensive enclosed structures or deep underground confined
spaces (basement structures, underground car parks), such as enclosed sports stadium, mixed use
industrial, commercial, or residential properties.
The environmental considerations outlined in the TAR for each of the impact use categories are outlined below.
Low impact use:
– The anticipated settlement of the landfill prior to establishment of any activity must be evaluated for on
landfill uses only.
– Ground mounted solar panels may require excavation into the cover system and placement of structural
supports. Solar panels pre-installed on racks or pads could be considered as one way of minimising
penetration of the cap. It should be noted that the additional cover material which has been placed on the
cap may be a sufficient mitigation measure for minimising penetration of the cap.
– Due to the shading effect of solar panels, it is likely that vegetation cannot be established on that part of
the site occupied by the solar farm. Alternative arrangements will therefore be required to minimise
stormwater infiltration and prevent erosion of the capped surface.
– Below ground buildings and structures are not recommended due to potential vapour risks.
– Buildings on the landfill areas (such as toilet blocks or storage sheds) should have constant ventilation,
and not be designed for long-term occupation. Alternatively, buildings such as a demountable can be
used, where there is airspace between the landfill surface and the floor of the building (i.e. no connected
pathway for surface emissions to migrate directly into the building).
– Underground service pits and trenches can be installed, however any conduits should be have airtight
seals, or be vented. Any penetrations passing above the former landfill or around its perimeter and into
buildings should be completely sealed.
– Access to landfill gas extraction infrastructure, and all monitoring infrastructure must be maintained (if
operational and required to reduce the risk and / or monitor LFG).
– Automated watering systems need to be programmed correctly, to avoid pools of water accumulating on
the landfill cap. Drought tolerant species should be encouraged and watering minimised.
Medium impact use (noting that all of the low impact use considerations also apply):
– Ongoing landfill gas extraction and flaring if deemed necessary based on an LFG risk assessment and
modelling.
– Buildings on the landfill (club rooms, toilet blocks, storage sheds, etc) should be designed with appropriate
gas protection measures and alarm systems that will trigger when unacceptable levels of landfill gas are
detected.
– Vapour barriers or airspace between the building floors and top of landfill cap would also be required for
buildings on and adjacent to the landfill. Alternatively, buildings can be constructed with underfloor venting
to cut out any gas migration pathway from the surface.
– Concrete cast slabs with damp proof membranes or gas resistant membranes, used in conjunction with
active or passive venting can also be used. It is noted that over large areas, these measures may be cost
prohibitive.
– Landfill Gas Management Plans should be prepared based on the site uses, and occupiers must be
educated on the risks and what actions to avoid (i.e. avoid digging into the cap without gas detectors or
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Attachment 12.13.2
protection measures, understand actions if methane detectors alarm, be aware of establishing confined
spaces such as enclosed marquees on the former landfill areas, etc).
– Constructing a landfill gas cut-off trench around the perimeter of the landfill (which based on the depth of
landfilling would be cost prohibitive)
– Completely sealing underground structures, and implementing active venting of air
– Installation of activated carbon filters in any landfill gas venting systems.
High impact use (noting that all of the medium impact use considerations also apply):
– Any piling or foundations, and all joints located on the landfilled area must be completely sealed.
– The design of buildings must include extra precautions to ensure that explosive or oxygen depleted
conditions do not develop within the enclosed spaces of the buildings due to landfill gas accumulation. As
noted above, such measures would include:
•
Reinforced concrete cast in-situ floor slab (suspended, non-suspended or raft)
•
Proprietary gas resistant membrane and actively ventilated or positively pressurised underfloor sub
space with monitoring facility
•
In ground venting wells and reduction of gas regime
•
If the cap is penetrated during any activity that creates connectivity to the waste mass, then some form of
seal will be required to prevent potential landfill gas migration.
•
Continuous monitoring of LFG using methane and other problematic gases (e.g. hydrogen sulphide)
sensors will be required within and underneath building structures. These should be set to provide an
alarm when a specific threshold (e.g. the protection of human health) is reached.
•
Any construction works would need to include a thorough and rigorous construction quality assurance
procedure with experienced contractors.
•
If irrigation will be part of the development, this would potentially increase infiltration into the waste mass
resulting in increased gas production, settlement, and groundwater impacts. A water balance analyses
would be required to inform on the design of a ‘smart’ irrigation system capable of accounting for
irrigation and rainfall to maintain a healthy grass surface.
Table 4 outlines the proposed use scenarios in the revised draft Vision Plan and associated impact category along
with considerations for implementing the scenario. It should be noted that the above considerations should still be
included when determining future options for the site.
It should be noted that buildings constructed should align with the relevant LFG guidelines and standards which
include but are not limited to:
– Ciria C665 – Assessing risks posed by hazardous ground gases to buildings
– British Standard (BS) 8485:2015 + A1:2019 – Code of practice for the design of protective measures for
methane and carbon dioxide ground gases for new buildings.
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Attachment 12.13.2
GHD
| Report for Brimbank City Council - Sunshine Energy Park, 3136382 | 23
Table 4
Environmental review of revised draft Vision Plan
Use scenario
Environmental data
impact on scenario
since TAR
Location of scenario complies with TAR
Additional considerations / risks (aside from those
outlined in the TAR)
Timeframe considerations
Low Impact Uses
Conservation and
Wildlife Area
No change since TAR. Yes, complies with low impact use scenario
All low impact use scenario considerations outlined in the
TAR
This should be considered as this may impact the integrity of
the capping material and contribute to leachate generation in
the future.
Native vegetation should be planted in place of introduced
species where possible.
Footings for any fences, gates or structure minimise
penetration into the landfill capping material.
A construction environmental management plan (CEMP)
should be implemented during the construction of all use
scenarios. The plan should add focus regarding maintaining
the integrity of the capping material, as low impact use
scenarios are generally located on top of the waste mass.
The play precinct can be justified as low impact providing
there are no enclosed spaces for LFG to accumulate. An
Audit requirement will be triggered for use of the All Ages
and Abilities Play Precinct.
Footings for any fences, gates or structure minimise
penetration into the landfill capping material.
Works can proceed with appropriate
low impact use controls
implemented – considered low
environmental risk
Enclosed Dog Park
No change since TAR. Yes, complies with low impact use scenario
Works can proceed with appropriate
low impact use controls
implemented – considered low
environmental risk
At Grade Car Park
No change since TAR. Yes, complies with low impact use scenario
Works can proceed with appropriate
low impact use controls
implemented – considered low
environmental risk
Pump and BMX Tracks
No change since TAR. Yes, complies with low impact use scenario
Works can proceed with appropriate
low impact use controls
implemented – considered low
environmental risk
Mountain Bike Tracks
No change since TAR. Yes, complies with low impact use scenario
Works can proceed with appropriate
low impact use controls
implemented – considered low
environmental risk
Sports Fields (Interim
Solar Farm Use)
No change since TAR. Yes, complies with low impact use scenario
Works can proceed with appropriate
low impact use controls
implemented – considered low
environmental risk
Park Entrance Point
for Pedestrians and
Cyclists
No change since TAR. Yes, complies with low impact use scenario
Works can proceed with appropriate
low impact use controls
implemented – considered low
environmental risk
Existing Club Rooms
(new entry from
Carrington Drive)
No change since TAR. Yes, complies with low impact use scenario
Works can proceed with appropriate
low impact use controls
implemented – considered low
environmental risk
All Ages and Abilities
Play Precinct
No change since TAR. Generally complies with low impact use scenario.
As it located within the waste mass footprint, if any
structures should be constructed to be well
ventilated and not have areas where LFG can
accumulate.
Works can proceed with appropriate
low impact use controls
implemented – considered low
environmental risk
Landmark Artwork
No change since TAR. Yes, complies with low impact use scenario
Works can proceed with appropriate
low impact use controls
implemented – considered low
environmental risk
Medium Impact Uses
Sports Field and
Pavilion
No change since TAR. Yes, complies with medium impact use scenario. All medium impact use scenario considerations outlined in
the TAR.
Footings for any fences, gates or structure minimise
penetration into the landfill capping material.
A construction environmental management plan (CEMP)
should be implemented during the construction of all use
scenarios. The plan should add focus regarding maintaining
the integrity of the capping material, as medium impact use
scenarios are generally located on top of the waste mass.
Works can proceed with appropriate
medium impact use controls
implemented – considered low
environmental risk
High Impact Uses
Service Delivery and
Operations Centre
Precinct
No change since TAR. Complies with high impact use scenario assuming
that appropriate design controls and
considerations are implemented.
All high impact use scenario considerations outlined in the
TAR
A construction environmental management plan (CEMP)
should be implemented during the construction of all use
scenarios. The plan should add focus regarding maintaining
the integrity of the capping material, as some sections of the
high impact use scenarios are located on top of the waste
mass.
Works can proceed with appropriate
high impact use controls
implemented – considered medium
environmental risk given adjacency
of buildings to landfill area.
Extensive monitoring and risk
management measures required.
Sustainability Hub
No change since TAR. Complies with high impact use scenario assuming
that appropriate design controls and
considerations are implemented.
Works can proceed with appropriate
high impact use controls
implemented – considered medium
environmental risk given location
adjacency of buildings to landfill
area. Extensive monitoring and risk
management measures required.
Stadium
No change since TAR. Complies with high impact use scenario assuming
that appropriate design controls and
considerations are implemented.
Works can proceed with appropriate
high impact use controls
implemented – considered medium
environmental risk given adjacency
of stadium to landfill area. Extensive
monitoring and risk management
measures required.
Ace Karts Expanded
Building and Car Park
No change since TAR. Complies with high impact use scenario assuming
that appropriate design controls and
considerations are implemented.
Works can proceed with appropriate
high impact use controls
implemented – considered medium
environmental risk given location in
landfill area. Extensive monitoring
and risk management measures
required.
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Attachment 12.13.2
5. Geotechnical considerations
The following sections provide a summary of the draft TAR [1] and incorporates the settlement monitoring results
in the discussion on settlement effects. The details of the settlement monitoring instrumentation and
comprehensive monitoring results are presented in a separate GHD report [2].
5.1 Geotechnical context
The SEP covers an area of approximately 40 ha with the landfill occupying approximately 22 ha. The extents of
the landfill area have been established over several phases of investigations, including work completed by GHD
and others. For the purpose of Section 5 and Section 6 of this report, the area underlain by landfill will be identified
as ‘landfill area’ and the relatively undisturbed area around the landfill will be known as ‘landfill-free area’.
A transition zone between the landfill and landfill-free area is of particular importance as it defines the boundary
between the two areas and also presents unique engineering challenges. This area will be referred to the
‘transition area’. The width of the 'transition area’ depends on the nature of the landfill edge (i.e., depth of landfill,
rock batter slope profile and rock structure) and the type of development being proposed. As a general guide, the
area within 10 m of the landfill crest would be considered as part of the ‘transition area’.
5.2 ‘Landfill-free area’
The area nominated as landfill-free is not considered to be undisturbed or natural and is likely to have undergone
some modification in the past, such as filling or excavation. Limitations and restrictions for development of the
landfill-free area are likely to be similar to that of areas underlain by residual basaltic soils and basalt (and possible
fill); which are commonplace across the western and northern suburban areas of Melbourne.
As a minimum, consideration will need to be given to the following for development in the landfill-free areas:
– The composition and engineering properties of the existing, historic or recently placed, fill is to be
established to assess any limitations or potential bearing/settlement issues. Placed fill (controlled, or not)
will undergo a period of self-consolidation and this must be considered in the design of any structure.
– The residual clays of the basaltic Newer Volcanics are sensitive to moisture and have the propensity to
shrink or swell under varying moisture conditions. Any development will need to consider the effects of
reactive clays and foundations will need to be designed to accommodate the effects of highly reactive
clays. Measures can be adopted (as advised in Australian Standard AS 2870–2011) which can aid to
mitigate the effects associated with reactive soils.
– Basalt rock provides a generally suitable foundation strata; however, can be highly variable in both
weathering and strength and challenging to excavate by conventional means.
– The proximity of any structure or development to the edge of the landfill (transition area) needs to be
carefully considered, including the effects of loading a buried, man-made basalt ‘cliff’. This consideration is
of particularly relevance to the proposed stadium structure (Area ID 12Table 1).
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Attachment 12.13.2
5.3 ‘Landfill area’
In general terms, the composition of landfill is expected to be characterised by extreme variability and present a
number of geotechnical engineering risks including, but not limited to, heterogeneous ground, weak ground,
obstructions and settlement.
Settlement
Settlement, in particular differential settlement, is amongst the most challenging geotechnical issue to quantify and
address when dealing with landfill sites. Settlement in landfill is caused by rearrangement of the waste material
(primary settlement), creep due to self-weight (creep or secondary settlement) and biodegradation.
In 2019 a total of nine magnetic extensometers were installed across the SEP site (denoted as EXT01 to EXT09
inclusive) for the purpose of monitoring the on-going deformation of the landfill mass. In 2024 GHD has prepared a
settlement monitoring report [2] documenting the installation of the extensometers and also presenting the
settlement monitoring data to the 14 February 2024. Reference should be made to the settlement monitoring
report which provides commentary on the nature of the on-going movement and recommendations for further
monitoring.
The settlements recorded are limited to the landfill area to the south of the Western Ring Road (M80) and east of
Hulett Street, also known as Quarry Hole No.6.
The following is a summary of the settlement monitoring results for the period between 2019 and February 2024:
– A total of nine extensometers (EXT01 to EXT09) have been installed across the Quarry Hole No.6 landfill
extents; with spacing ranging from approximately 80 to 200 metres and depth of installation ranging from
approximately 18 to 35 m. A plan showing the location of the extensometers, landfill extents and total
settlement between 2019 and February 2024 is shown as Figure 1 in Appendix A.
– The extensometers were installed to monitor the deformation of the landfill mass and were anchored into
the underlying basaltic rock. A key assumption of the interpretation of results is that the landfill mass is
compressible, and the basalt rock is incompressible (i.e., all the settlement occurs within the landfill mass).
The settlement recorded is expected to be comprised of two components – primary and creep
consolidation settlement, and biodegradation. Primary settlement will occur under the landfill mass self
weight and following and a stress increase (i.e., after the placement of additional fill).
– Site filling was occurring during the installation and is assumed to be largely responsible for the settlement
monitored to date. The site filing commenced in 2012 and was completed by end of 2021 with up to 9 to
10 m of fill placed within the central portion of the site.
– Surface settlement recorded across the site, as of 14 February 2024, range from 70 mm to 341 mm, with
an average surface settlement of 166 mm. The maximum settlement of 341 mm has been recorded at
EXT09 within the central portion of the site.
– Settlement recorded is greatest towards the middle of the landfill area and decrease along the edges. The
maximum values correlate to the greatest thicknesses of placed fill. This confirms that the settlement is
largely a function of the recently placed fill material.
– In general, the settlement increases with vertical height above the bottom datum (i.e., upper-most anchor
is observed to be settling the most).
– Compression rates to up to 10 to 25 mm per month were recorded over the observation period from the
July 2019 (commencement of monitoring) to 2020/21. This high rate of settlement is inferred to be
associated with the on-going filling and is considered to be an immediate response to the load increase.
Current settlement rates are up to 2 mm per month and are inferred to be settlement associated with
biodegradation and potentially on-going creep settlement.
The discussion contained in Section 6 is provided based on the measured settlement trends. It is important that
monitoring continues to validate the conclusions and confirm the rate of settlement.
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Attachment 12.13.2
6. Geotechnical review of Vision Plan
The draft TAR [1] consisted of a high-level study to inform the planning for future use, assessing environmental,
geotechnical, statutory planning and urban development constraints associated with potential uses for the SEP.
The options assessment examined three broad future uses:
– Low impact use – solar park or open recreational parkland with no buildings or underground confined
spaces.
– Medium impact use – formal sports fields/sports facilities with limited enclosed structures or underground
confined spaces, such as clubrooms and a small grandstand.
– High impact use – extensive building form with extensive enclosed structures or deep underground
confined spaces, such as enclosed sports stadium, mixed use industrial, commercial or residential
properties.
Sections 6.1 to 6.3 outlines the proposed use scenarios in the revised draft Vision Plan [5] with considerations for
implementing the scenario.
6.1 Development in ‘landfill-free’ and ‘transition’ areas
In general, development can progress on the areas outside of the ‘landfill area’ with careful consideration given to
the transition zones. The landfill (quarry) wall forms a buried cliff structure which has been buttressed by landfill
waste. Developing within the transition zone will need to consider the stability of the ‘cliff’ and potential impacts to
structures positioned close to the cliff-edge. Geotechnical investigations and assessment will need to be
completed to inform the development and engineering strategy within the transition zone.
6.2 Low impact use in ‘landfill area’
The settlement monitoring results to date indicate the landfill mass is continuing to settle, albeit at a reduced rate.
Low impact uses are considered to generally be use scenarios which are insensitive to settlement and can
accommodate a reasonable magnitude of total and differential settlement.
Lightweight structures or pavements can be managed through suitable design, site preparation and regular
maintenance. Ground improvement may be implemented to improve the performance of the structure and reduce
the maintenance needs.
Table 5 presents a high-level review of the low impact uses indicated in the revised draft Vision Plan against
recommendations presented in the draft TAR with incorporation and consideration of settlement data collected to
date.
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Attachment 12.13.2
6.3 Medium and High impact use in ‘landfill area’
The settlement monitoring results indicate the landfill mass is continuing to settle at a reduced rate. An
interpretation of the data and associated plots (refer [2]) indicate that the landfill mass may be transitioning into a
longer period of secondary settlement with on-going biodegradation.
The landfill mass continues to settle with current rates of settlement of up to 2 mm per month and it is inferred that
the on-going movement is generally associated with either creep movement or biodegradation. Medium to high
impact uses are considered to be structures and facilities that are sensitive to ground deformation and may suffer
performance and functionality issues under excessive movement. The following should be considered in planning
for medium and high impact uses within the ‘landfill area’:
– It is generally recommended that no buildings are built on the landfill area until biodegradation has ceased,
unless the entire landfill mass can be bypassed by piling (in some areas the depth through the capping
material and landfill to bedrock would be over 30 metres). A landfill gas generation model prepared by
GHD in 2012 indicated that landfill gas generation was in decline with the model suggesting that
biodegradation of the waste will continue for a period of 20 to 30 years (or about 2040 from the date of the
modelling). This date may be revised as gas monitoring continues.
– Following cessation of biodegradation (estimated to be in the next 20 to 30 years at this stage) structures
and buildings (light or heavy) can be constructed provided the effects of immediate and creep settlement is
incorporated into the design. Immediate and creep settlement will occur following the application of
additional load on the landfill mass, and ground improvement or deep piling is likely to be required to
mitigate settlement issues. The settlement monitoring results indicate deformation of over 300 mm can be
expected under loading equivalent to approximately 9 m of surcharge fill (approximately 180 to 200 kPa of
applied pressure).
– Heavily loaded buildings will require piling into the underlying natural strata, which may be over 30 m
deep. Bored or driven piles through landfill is particularly challenging and obstructions may cause
significant construction issues. The composition of the landfill may also present issues with lateral stability
of the piles. Long, slender piles with poor lateral support may be subject to buckling or lateral instability
and is considered unlikely that the landfill mass will provide sufficient lateral support. The effects of
corrosion and accelerated structural deterioration will be an issue for any part of the structure (including
piles or ground beams) penetrating into the landfill mass.
– Any structures within the ‘landfill area’ should be designed with input from a suitably experience
geotechnical engineer with particular experience in designing for landfill conditions.
Table 5 presents a high-level review of the medium to high impact uses indicated in the revised draft Vision Plan
against recommendations presented in the draft TAR with incorporation and consideration of settlement data
collected to date.
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Attachment 12.13.2
GHD
| Report for Brimbank City Council - Sunshine Energy Park , 3136382 | 28
Table 5
Geotechnical review of revised Draft Vision Plan [5]
Area
ID
Use scenario Location of scenario complies with draft TAR?
Considerations / risks if developed prior to stabilisation
of settlement
Timeframe considerations
Low impact use
01 Conservation
and Wildlife
Area
YES,
complies with low impact use scenario.
The proposed Conservation and Wildlife Area is located
within the landfill area north of Western Ring Road
(M80) and within the central area of Quarry Hole No.1.
Settlement monitoring has not been conducted in this area
and the magnitude of on-going settlement is not known.
Works can proceed with appropriate design and allowances
for on-going settlement, including ground improvement
measures.
04 Enclosed Dog
Park
YES
, complies with low impact use scenario.
The proposed enclosed dog is located on the central
north area of the landfill area and straddles the
‘transition’ area.
Settlement monitoring has not been conducted in this area
and the magnitude of on-going settlement is not known.
Foundations will need to be designed for movement. Light
weight flexible structures are anticipated.
Works can proceed with appropriate design and allowances
for on-going settlement, including ground improvement
measures.
05 At Grade Car
Park
YES
, complies with low impact use scenario.
The proposed car park is outside the landfill area and
partially located within a transition zone.
Car park is outside extent of landfill and conventional design
principles apply. The ‘transition zone’ is unlikely to impact the
performance of the carpark provided an offset from the landfill
edge is maintained (nominally 5 to 10 m)
Works can proceed with appropriate design and allowances
for on-going settlement, including ground improvement
measures.
08 All Ages and
Abilities Play
Precinct
YES
, complies with low impact use scenario.
The proposed location is on the northern extent of the
Quarry Hole No.6.
Settlement will occur at the location of these facilities. The
proposed uses are likely to be tolerable to differential
movement.
Use scenarios will be subject to on-going movement of
minimum 2 mm per month (approx. 25 mm per year
2
) on the
provision that the load on the landfill mass is not increased.
Regular maintenance of surfaces (paved) and drainage may
be required.
Works can proceed with appropriate design and allowances
for on-going settlement, including ground improvement
measures.
09 Pump and BMX
Tracks
YES
, complies with low impact use scenario.
The proposed location is on the western extent of the
Quarry Hole No.6.
Settlement will occur at the location of these facilities. The
proposed uses are likely to be tolerable to differential
movement.
Use scenarios will be subject to on-going movement of
minimum 2 mm per month (approx. 25 mm per year
2
) on the
provision that the load on the landfill mass is not increased.
Regular maintenance of surfaces (paved) and drainage may
be required.
Works can proceed with appropriate design and allowances
for on-going settlement, including ground improvement
measures.
10 Mountain Bike
Tracks
YES
, complies with low impact use scenario.
The proposed location is in the central area of Quarry
Hole No.6.
Works can proceed with appropriate design and allowances
for on-going settlement, including ground improvement
measures.
11 Sports Fields
(Interim Solar
Farm Use)
YES
, complies with low impact use scenario.
The proposed location is in the southern area Quarry
Hole No.6.
Sports field will be subject to on-going movement of minimum
2 mm per month (approx. 25 mm per year
2
) on the provision
that the load on the landfill mass is not increased. As the
waste approaches biological stabilization (predicted to be
about 2040) the creep component of settlement will tend to
slow down. Further monitoring will be required to understand
the long-term settlement behaviour.
Dependent on load and sensitivity to movement, solar farm
can potentially be supported on controlled fill layer or
designed to tolerate the expected long-term movement.
Works can proceed with appropriate design and allowances
for on-going settlement, including ground improvement
measures.
Design must account for the expected settlement, and
appropriate ground improvement techniques should be
undertaken to provide a stable foundation for new solar
farms.
13 Landmark
Artwork
YES
, complies with low impact use scenario.
The proposed location is in the central area of Quarry
Hole No.6.
Dependent on load and sensitivity to movement, the
Landmark Artwork can potentially be supported on controlled
fill layer (shallow ground improvement). The artwork supports
should be designed to tolerate settlement over its design life.
Works can proceed with appropriate design and allowances
for on-going settlement, including ground improvement
measures.
Design must account for the expected settlement, and
appropriate ground improvement techniques should be
undertaken to provide a stable foundation for landmark
artwork.
Medium to High Impact Use
14 Park Entrance
Point for
Pedestrians and
Cyclists
YES,
all entrance points are located outside the extent
of the landfill areas.
Outside extent of landfill and conventional design principles
apply.
Additional considerations needed for development within the
transition area (nominally 10 to 15 m from the landfill edge).
Works can proceed with appropriate design.
07 Sports Field
and Pavilion
YES,
complies with medium impact use scenario.
The pavilion and majority of the fields are located
outside the northern extent of the Quarry Hole No.6
landfill.
Outside extent of landfill and conventional design principles
apply.
Additional considerations needed for development within the
transition area (nominally 10 to 15 m from the landfill edge).
Works can proceed with appropriate design.
Lightweight structures within the ‘transition zone’ (such as
light poles and goals) are likely to be acceptable, subject to
geotechnical investigation and assessment and design.
03 Operations
Centre
YES,
main buildings and sheds are indicated to be
located outside the extent of the ‘landfill area’.
Outside extent of landfill and conventional design principles
apply.
Additional considerations needed for development within the
transition area (nominally 10 to 15 m from the landfill edge).
Works can proceed with appropriate design.
Suitable design needed for development within the transition
area (nominally 10 to 15 m from the landfill edge).
06 Sustainability
Hub
YES.
main buildings are indicated to be located outside
the extent of the ‘landfill area’.
The proposed Sustainability Hub staddles the ‘transition
areas’ of Quarry Hole No.6 and No.5.
Largely outside extent of landfill and conventional design
principles apply.
Additional considerations needed for development within the
transition area (nominally 10 to 15 m from the landfill edge).
Works can proceed with appropriate design measures and
consideration.
Design will need to consider the ‘basalt cliff’ within the
‘transition area’.
12 Stadium
YES,
stadium is located outside the extent of the landfill
areas.
The proposed Stadium is near the ‘transition area’ of
Quarry Hole No.6.
The structure is anticipated to be heavily loaded and sensitive
to settlement.
Position the structure entirely outside the landfill area and
within the ‘landfill-free area’ and design using conventional
principles. Position footings outside the ‘transition zone’. The
width of the ‘transition zone’ will need to be determined form
further geotechnical investigations and/or geophysical
surveys.
The effects of loading near the crest of the buried basalt ‘cliff’
will need to be considered in the design.
Works can proceed with appropriate design measures and
consideration.
Design will need to consider the ‘basalt cliff’ within the
‘transition area’.
Table notes:
2
Estimated monthly and yearly settlement rates are provided based on the settlement monitoring report prepared by GHD [2]. Rates may be adjusted (up or down) based on continued monitoring.
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Attachment 12.13.2
7. Closing remarks
This report included a high-level review of the revised draft Vision Plan ( [4] & [5]) in comparison to the
recommendations outlined in the draft TAR [1] and with consideration of the most recent geotechnical and
environmental data.
The settlement monitoring report [2] indicates that the landfill mass compressed under the application of the clean
fill loading. The data trends indicate that primary settlement has likely ceased under the applied load, and the
landfill mass has entered a phase of secondary (creep) settlement along with ongoing the biodegradation
settlement. It is important to note that any additional load will induce a new phase of immediate and primary
settlement.
Sections 4 and 6 of the report provides an environmental and geotechnical review of the revised draft Vision Plan.
The review indicates that the revised draft Vision Plan either complies or partially complies with the draft TAR.
Development outside the ‘landfill area’ (i.e., within the transition zone or ‘landfill-free area’) can proceed with
appropriate design including careful consideration of the impacts of developing at the edge the buried quarry wall.
Low impact development can progress across the ‘landfill area’ provided the impacts of on-going biodegradation
and possible addition primary settlement are considered in the design. Designs may need to incorporate shallow
ground improvement to limit the impacts associated with differential settlement.
Medium to high impact scenarios should be limited to the areas outside the landfill extents (i.e., within the ‘landfill
free area’). Development of medium to high impact scenarios, where development is not tolerable to differential
settlement, within the ‘landfill area’ should not progress until biodegradation has ceased, which is anticipated to be
in approximately 20 to 30 years (approximately 2040 subject to confirmation). Settlement monitoring of the landfill
mass should continue to allow on-going evaluation of the landfill mass and determination of the cessation of
biodegradation.
It is recommended that the Vision Plan is reviewed as it develops, and geotechnical and environmental advice is
sought during each phase of the development.
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Attachment 12.13.2
8. References
[1] GHD, “Sunshine Energy Park - Draft Technical Assessment Report,” GHD, Melbourne, Australia , 2019.
[2] GHD Limited, “Sunshine Energy Park - Settlement Monitoring Report,” GHD, Melbourne, Australia, 2024.
[3] Brimbank City Council, “Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan (DRAFT),” Brimbank City Council, Melbourne,
Australia , December 2022.
[4] Brimbank City Council, “Sunshine Energy Park Revised Draft Vision Plan - December 2023.Rev4,” Brimbank,
Victoria , 2023.
[5] Brimbank City Council, “Sunshine Energy Park Draft Vision Plan April 2024,” Brimbank City Council, 2024.
[6] Brimbank City Council, “Framework Rehabilitation Plan and Aftercare Management Plan (RAMP),” Brimbank
City Council, Melbourne, Australia, 2104.
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Attachment 12.13.2
GHD
| Report for Brimbank City Council - Sunshine Energy Park, 3136382 | 33
Appendices
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Attachment 12.13.2
GHD
| Report for Brimbank City Council - Sunshine Energy Park, 3136382 | 34
Appendix A
Figures
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Attachment 12.13.2
A
!
A
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A
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A
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A
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A
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A
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A
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A
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St Albans Road
H
ulett St
Wes
t
er
n
R
i
n
g Road
QUARRY
HOLE
No. 7
QUARRY
HOLE
No. 6
QUARRY
HOLE
No. 5
EXT01
150mm
EXT02
174mm
EXT03
196mm
EXT04
64mm
EXT05
70mm
EXT06
113mm
EXT07
142mm
EXT08
241mm
EXT09
341mm
E: 307531.273
N: 5817474.085
E: 307666.649
N: 5817400.039
E: 307800.034
N: 5817212.524
E: 307704.915
N: 5817108.844
E: 307483.932
N: 5817119.028
E: 307393.042
N: 5817244.252
E: 307673.098
N: 5817231.908
E: 307582.943
N: 5817257.263
E: 307552.788
N: 5817329.275
D
R
A
F
T
FIGURE 1
0
50
100
Meters
Project No.
Revision No.
C
12613973
Date
22/03/2024
Brimbank City Counil
Sunshine Energy Park
Settlement Monitoring
Map Projection: Transverse Mercator
Horizontal Datum: GDA2020
Grid: GDA2020 MGA Zone 55
Paper Size ISO A4
o
Data source: . Created by: jreid6
Legend
A
!
Extensometer
Site Boundary (digitised
22/03/2024)
Inferred Quarry Extent
(digitised 22/03/2024)
Maximum Measured Settlement (As at February
2024) clipped to inferred quarry extent.
High : 341.088
Low : 42.418
Extensometer Location Plan
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Attachment 12.13.2
GHD
| Report for Brimbank City Council - Sunshine Energy Park, 3136382 | 35
Appendix B
Revised Draft Vision Plan
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Attachment 12.13.2
Conservation and Wildlife Area
Existing Club Rooms
(new entry from Carrington Drive)
Operation Centre
Enclosed Dog Park
At Grade Car Park
Sustainability Hub
Sport Fields and Pavilion
All Ages and Abilities Play
Pump and BMX Tracks
Mountain Bike Tracks
Sports Fields (Solar Farm interim use)
Stadium
Landmark Artwork
Park Entry Point
(for Pedestrians and Cyclists)
01.
02.
03.
04.
05.
06.
07.
08.
09.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
Approximate Landfill Extent
Sunshine Energy Park
Draft Vision Plan
April 2024
0
50
100
200m
01
01
01
01
01
02
03
04
05
06
05
07
08
08
10
11
12
13
14
14
14
13
09
HULETT STREET
CARRINGTON DRIVE
BALLARAT ROAD
PEDESTRIAN &
CYCLIST PATH
UNDER M80
PEDESTRIAN &
CYCLIST PATH
UNDER M80
WESTERN RING ROAD (M80)
DENTON AVE
JONES CREEK
STONY CREEK
ST ALBANS ROAD
ST ALBANS ROAD
RAILWAY LINE
RAILWAY LINE
14
14
14
14
NORTH
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Attachment 12.13.2
GHD
| Report for Brimbank City Council - Sunshine Energy Park, 3136382 | 38
ghd.com
The Power of Commitment
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Attachment 12.13.2
Topic
Summarised comments
Officer response
Site access and walking, cycling
and public transport connections
1. Provide sufficient carparking for visitors to the park.
2. Pedestrian connections to neighoring residential areas are
essential including linkages cross rail corridor and St Albans Road are
important.
3. Consider an electric shuttle bus and/or bike hire from main
Brimbank City centres to visit site.
1. Carparking allocation will be guided by planning scheme
2. Connections are shown on the Vision Plan and further analysis and feasibility will be included
in future stages
3. The connections to and from SEP from major will be determined through structure planning
work for this precinct.
Environment sustainability
1. More urban forest and solar farms, less sports facilities,
2. Ensure the design addresses and responds to challenges of the
climate change.
3. Concern about the maintenance required to maintain the park to
designed outcome.
4. Restoration of original vegetation in western suburbs before
European settlement.
5. Stormwater harvesting system for park maintenance use.
6. Consider creating more conservation spaces
1. The Draft Vision Plan includes areas of urban forest and a solar farm.
2. The design of each precinct within the vision plan will consider climate, the carbon footprint
and longevity of materials.
3. Management plans will be prepared after design phase. The ongoing maintenance budget will
be negotiated as part of funding agreements with funding partners.
4.
Planting strategies will be included in next phase of design
5.
The neighbouring Upper Stony Creek Wetland which harvests sto
r
mwater has been
designed to irrigate SEP
6.
Increase the precinct to incorpoate more space for conservation
Community gathering and social
cohension
1. Concerns about the feasibility of installing community gardens.
2. Space and program for education purpose.
3. Request safety cameras and lighting for night time use .
1. The community gardens proposal would be subject to business case and feasibility study to
determine viability. The beds would be above ground.
2. The Sustainability Hub is proposed to have this function
3. Crime Prevention Through Envrionmental Design assessments will be undertaken for each
precinct in the design phase
Health and wellbeing
1. Heath hazard of having sports facilities and other community
gathering activies over tipping site.
1. The site has been cleared by EPA as being safe for use for recreation
al
purpose. Fu
r
ther
detailed technical investigation will be conducted for each proposed activities.
Supporting sports in Brimbank
1. Need more balance between sporting and passive recreation.
2. Ensure balance between private sports clubs and community in
utilising public land and public facilities.
3. Need grounds for women and girls football
1.The Sports Development Plan indicates that there is a need for more ovals and sporting
facilities. More space for passive recreation can be created by increasing the precinct to the
north.
2. The land is zoned PPRZ which means that the land must be available for public use ‐ leases
would be possible but would need to meet the objectives of the Vision Plan.
3. GIA has identified the needs for spaces for sports programs for women and girls
SEP as a destination
1. Provide destination playgrounds, water play, outdoor fitness
stations and gardens.
2. Provide a destination Mountain Bike track and a pump track.
3. Provide a dog park.
4. Provide public toilets.
5. Provide outdoor stage for community events.
6. Include a sculpture park.
1. The Vision Plan includes a flagship scale playground ‐ this level of playground would need to
include fitness equipment, water play and plantings as guided by Creating Better Parks Strategy
and Plan
2. The Mountain Bike tracks can be expanded to create a more significant destination and include
a pump track ‐ the feasiblity and design of this facility would be investigated as part of this
precinct
3. The Creating Better Parks Strategy guides the distribution of dog parks in BCC ‐ a dog park can
be considered for this location
4. Public toilets provision is guided by Brimbank Public Toilet Strategy, and would provide
recommendations to provide toilets in high use areas. Preference would be for public toilets to
located in facilities such as the Stadium and Sustainability Hub and in area where there is passive
surviellance and ease of maintenance access.
5&6. To be considered in detail design phase.
Potential partnerships
1. Private enterprise should not have priority access to public land.
2. Funding parterners are required for project of this scale.
1. Proposal submitted by external organisations will be considered as part of a formal EOI
process
2. The majority of the Vision Plan can only be implemented with the committed of funding
partners and the vision is likely to take up to 30 years to be implemented
Consultation: June ‐ August 2023
Number of responses: 66
SUNSHINE ENERGY PARK DRAFT VISION PLAN
Summarised feedback from community
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Attachment 12.13.3
Draft Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan
Stakeholder Engagement Findings Report
16 October 2023
Prepared for:
BRIMBANK CITY COUNCIL
Prepared by:
Sarah Bishop, Letitia Duncan and Angela Walter
ACTIVATE CONSULTING
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Attachment 12.13.4
Draft Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan - Stakeholder Engagement Findings Report
1
CONTENTS
1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ........................................................................................................... 3
Key findings ................................................................................................................................... 3
2. PROJECT AND ENGAGEMENT OVERVIEW.......................................................................... 5
Project background........................................................................................................................ 5
Engagement purpose and objectives ............................................................................................ 6
Engagement approach .................................................................................................................. 6
3. WHO WE HEARD FROM .......................................................................................................... 8
Stakeholder reach and participation.............................................................................................. 8
Formal written statements ............................................................................................................. 8
4. FORMAL WRITTEN STATEMENTS....................................................................................... 10
4.1 Albion and Ardeer Community Club Inc................................................................................ 10
4.2 Australian Unity – Sunshine Private Hospital ....................................................................... 11
4.3 BikeWest................................................................................................................................ 12
4.4 Brimbug.................................................................................................................................. 14
4.5 Cadence................................................................................................................................. 14
4.6 Friends of Kororoit Creek ...................................................................................................... 16
4.7 Henkell Brothers .................................................................................................................... 18
4.8 Islamic Guidance Society of Australia / Khalid bin Al-Waleed Mosque (Albion Mosque).... 19
4.9 NBL ........................................................................................................................................ 20
4.10 Tennis Victoria ..................................................................................................................... 21
4.11 Victoria University................................................................................................................ 22
4.12 Volleyball Victoria ................................................................................................................ 23
4.13 Western Pigeon Federation of Victoria ............................................................................... 25
5. OVERALL FINDINGS.............................................................................................................. 27
5.1 Type 1 - Properties (land owners and tenants) adjacent to SEP and the Albion quarter
precinct ........................................................................................................................................ 28
5.2 Type 2 - Properties (land owners and tenants) adjacent to SEP only.................................. 31
5.3 Type 3 - Stakeholders – local and outside of Brimbank with a potential interest in SEP .... 33
5.4 Government departments and agencies ............................................................................... 38
6. APPENDICIES......................................................................................................................... 39
6.1 BikeWest Submission............................................................................................................ 39
6.2 Victoria University Submission .............................................................................................. 51
6.3 Volleyball Victoria Submission .............................................................................................. 54
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Attachment 12.13.4
Draft Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan - Stakeholder Engagement Findings Report
2
Activate Consulting respectfully acknowledges and recognises the Kulin Nation, including the
Wurundjeri, Bunurong and Boon Wurrung Peoples as the Traditional Owners of the land and
waterways in the City of Brimbank and pays respect to their Elders past, present and future.
Activate also acknowledges local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents of Brimbank
and their Elders for their ongoing contribution to the diverse culture of the community.
The Five Elements
Located in Sunvale Community Park, Sunshine
Artists: Lee-Anne Clarke and Mandi Barton, 2019
Copyright and disclaimer
The materials presented in this report are for information purposes only. The information is provided solely on the basis
that readers will be responsible for making their own assessments of the matters discussed. Readers are advised to
verify all relevant representations, statements, and information and to obtain independent advice before acting on any
information contained in or in connection with this report. While every effort has been made to ensure that the
information is accurate, Activate Consulting will not accept any liability for any loss or damages that may be incurred by
any person acting in reliance upon the information.
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Attachment 12.13.4
Draft Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan - Stakeholder Engagement Findings Report
3
1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Sunshine and Albion are set to significantly transform over the next few decades.
The Victorian Government has identified Sunshine as a state priority precinct and has committed to
significant infrastructure and development investments in this area. This investment includes the
redevelopment of Sunshine and Albion Stations, and the renewal and transformation of Albion Quarter.
To leverage infrastructure and development investments to achieve meaningful and generational change
for the local community, in 2021 Brimbank City Council endorsed the Sunshine Priority Precinct Vision
2050. It’s a bold plan to support Sunshine as the ‘Capital of Melbourne’s West’.
One of the 15 key priorities in the precinct vision is to transform the closed Sunshine landfills and former
quarry into 54 hectares of new parklands, known as Sunshine Energy Park (SEP).
In December 2022, Council endorsed for consultation a Draft Vision Plan for SEP. The draft vision plan
highlights opportunities for extensive tree planting, a solar farm, walking and cycling tracks, a sustainability
hub, new sportsgrounds and stadium, new play spaces and an extensive urban forest and wetland system.
It is a long-term Draft Vision that, once approved, will require partnerships and investment from
government, business and community to bring this to life over the next 30 years.
A comprehensive stakeholder engagement program ran from 21 June to 31 August 2023 alongside broad
community engagement. The targeted stakeholder engagement program sought feedback on the Draft
Vision Plan and to identify ideas and potential opportunities from the following stakeholder groups:
•
Type 1 – properties (landowners and tenants) adjacent to SEP and the Albion quarter precinct
•
Type 2 – properties (landowners and tenants) adjacent to SEP only
•
Type 3 – stakeholders, both local and outside the City of Brimbank with a potential interest in SEP
•
Advisors - organisations and government with experience of similar projects or related expertise
•
Government departments and agencies
•
Elected government officials.
This report presents the findings of the stakeholder engagement program.
Approximately 49 stakeholder organisations/ individual stakeholders participated in the targeted
engagement program which included formal written submissions as well as meetings and informal
interactions – including phone calls, in-person discussions and meetings, email enquiries and general
feedback from stakeholder information sessions.
Key findings
Overall Sentiment
The overall sentiment about the draft vision for SEP was very positive. The majority of stakeholders
commented that the vision would bring a range of benefits to Sunshine and Brimbank including open green
spaces; a focus on the environment and sustainability; improved social cohesion; and much-needed
sporting facilities and spaces for people to be active.
Many stakeholders commented on how SEP could play a critical role in the transformation of the area and
Albion Quarter and contribute to Sunshine becoming the capital of Melbourne’s west.
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Attachment 12.13.4
Draft Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan - Stakeholder Engagement Findings Report
4
Some of the words used by stakeholders to describe the vision included:
•
Positive
•
Transformative
•
Exciting
•
Brilliant idea
•
Clever
•
Strategic
•
Impressive
•
Comprehensive
•
Innovative
•
Well-planned
•
Remarkable
•
Fantastic
The below outlines the key themes that emerged from stakeholder feedback.
Walking, cycling and public transport connections
The most frequent topic raised by stakeholders was the importance of improved and new connections to
SEP including walking paths, cycling paths and connections to public transport and key destinations within
the area. This was seen as an essential factor for the success of SEP, ensuring easy access for everyone.
It was also considered important for people to be able to access SEP without a car and ease pressure on
parking, especially if there are large sporting events.
Environmental sustainability
The next most frequent topic raised by stakeholders involved support for SEP’s environmental and
sustainability focus. There were many positive comments about the solar farm, sustainability hub, circular
economy, green spaces, wetlands and green roof on the sports stadium and the contribution these could
make to local wildlife, climate resilience and minimising waste. There were some questions and concerns
raised about gardening and growing produce under powerlines, and the location of the wetlands.
Community gathering and social cohesion
Many stakeholders commented on the benefits SEP would have on community building and creating a
space for people to meet, gather and connect. Some stakeholders felt SEP provided an opportunity for
culturally enriching events and spaces and a place for people to come together and learn.
Health and wellbeing
Many stakeholders pointed to the overall health and wellbeing benefits SEP could provide in relation to
being in nature, being active in open space, and having a place to relax, socialise and enjoy.
SEP Stadium and sporting destination
Potential partners and local stakeholders were very interested in the sports facilities proposed for SEP and
how this could be used to nurture sport participation in Brimbank. The proposed stadium was of particular
interest and a range of opportunities and partnerships proposed to create a successful multi-purpose
facility including spaces for sports like basketball, tennis, netball, volleyball and badminton. Stakeholders
also embraced the idea of using the stadium for other community purposes like hosting conventions and
exhibitions and cultural opportunities including musical performances.
SEP as a destination
Some stakeholders mentioned that SEP provided a great opportunity for Sunshine and Brimbank as it
could create a destination, attracting not only community but visitors to the local area, contributing to the
visitor economy. Having a facility like this in Sunshine would also help contribute to attracting investment
and attracting and retaining talent for employment opportunities in the local area.
Potential partnerships
Potential partnerships were raised with a several stakeholders including Victoria University, Basketball
Victoria, NBL, Sunshine Private Hospital, Sunshine Hospital, Volleyball Victoria as well as community
groups like Bike West.
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2. PROJECT AND ENGAGEMENT OVERVIEW
Project background
Sunshine and Albion are set to significantly transform over the next few decades.
The Victorian Government has identified Sunshine as Melbourne's only combined national employment
and innovation cluster, metropolitan activity centre, state priority precinct, and transport superhub. Its
Precinct Opportunity Statement states that ‘Sunshine will become the centre of Melbourne’s West’, with a
target to almost triple the existing residential and employee population. This is being supported with
significant investment in infrastructure, such as the already committed redevelopment of Sunshine and
Albion Stations.
To leverage infrastructure and development investments to achieve meaningful and generational change
for the local community, in 2021 Brimbank City Council endorsed the Sunshine Priority Precinct Vision
2050. It’s a bold plan to support Sunshine as the ‘Capital of Melbourne’s West’ with strong support from the
community, education and business sectors.
One of 15 key priorities of the Sunshine Priority Precinct Vision 2050 is to transform the closed Sunshine
landfills and former quarry into a 54-hectare urban parkland and community asset in the heart of Sunshine
– called Sunshine Energy Park (SEP).
Combined with the State Government’s redevelopment of Albion Station, and the identified future renewal
of Albion Quarter, the area will transform from what is currently primarily industrial use to a vibrant mixed
use precinct for innovation, jobs and housing.
In December 2022, Council endorsed for consultation a Draft Vision Plan
for SEP which highlights opportunities for:
•
extensive tree planting
•
a solar farm
•
cycling and walking tracks
•
sustainability hub
•
sports fields and stadium
•
play spaces, and
•
an extensive urban forest and wetland system.
It is a long-term Draft Vision that, once approved, will require partnerships
and investment from government, business and community to bring to life
over the next 30 years.
As such, Brimbank City Council implemented a comprehensive engagement program to seek feedback on
the Draft Vision Plan and identify ideas and potential opportunities. This engagement program consisted of
two streams: broad community engagement and targeted stakeholder engagement. The feedback will be
used to help inform a Final Draft Vision Plan.
This report presents the findings of the stakeholder engagement program.
For more information on the Transforming Brimbank vision and projects visit:
www.brimbank.vic.gov.au/council/transforming-brimbank
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Engagement purpose and objectives
Brimbank City Council’s overall engagement program aimed to engage the community and key
stakeholders in the development of the Sunshine Energy Park (SEP) Vision Plan to ensure this once in a
generation opportunity reflects the needs and aspirations of current and future communities.
The stakeholder engagement also aimed to generate general awareness about the broader transformation
of the precinct, encourage stakeholders (particularly surrounding landowners) to think about their longer
term plans, and explore potential opportunities.
The objectives of the stakeholder engagement component were to:
•
reach, inform and engage key identified stakeholders on the Draft SEP Vision Plan
•
gather feedback on the Draft Vision Plan and identify any potential collaboration opportunities to
realise shared goals
•
raise awareness and generate interest in the overall transformation of the Albion precinct (including
SEP, Albion Quarter, Albion station) – a sense of optimism and opportunity
•
provide a positive engagement experience with key identified stakeholders to build trusted, ongoing
relationships
•
document/capture useful input and feedback to help inform the final SEP Vision Plan and
demonstrate stakeholder sentiment around the Draft Vision.
Engagement approach
The engagement program ran from 21 June to 11 August 2023. An extended timeframe was provided to
allow for the school holiday period and so a series of in-person meetings could be held with stakeholders.
This section describes the stakeholder engagement component only which ran until 31 August.
The Draft Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan document was the primary engagement resource used with
stakeholders, however a short explainer video was also produced to help capture attention and generate
initial interest.
As shown in Table 2.1, stakeholders were grouped into broad categories based on their relationship to the
SEP site, broader Albion precinct and/or purpose of engagement.
Table 2.1 Broad stakeholder categories
Category
Description
Type 1 – Properties (land
owners and tenants) adjacent
to SEP and the Albion quarter
precinct
Commercial and industrial land and businesses in the area within the
Albion Quarter Structure Plan (either side of Albion Station, including
areas of significant development potential north of Ballarat Road).
These are stakeholders that may be directly impacted by, or interested
in, changes at SEP and/or the future transformation of the Albion
Quarter.
Type 2 – Properties (land
owners and tenants) adjacent
to SEP only
Mainly commercial and industrial land and businesses, but also some
residential properties in the areas surrounding SEP. It also included
current community tenants using buildings on the SEP site. These are
stakeholders that may be directly impacted by, or interested in,
changes at SEP.
Type 3 – Stakeholders, both
local and outside the City of
Brimbank, with a potential
interest in SEP
Key stakeholders involved in the Sunshine Priority Precinct Vision
2050 process, identified potential partner organisations, traditional
owner groups and local community interest groups. These are
stakeholders that may have a direct interest in changes or
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Category
Description
opportunities at SEP.
Advisors
Other organisations which have successfully implemented elements of
the Draft SEP Vision Plan in their own locations. These are
stakeholders that may be able to share valuable insights and learnings
to Council that influence elements of the Draft Vision Plan.
Government departments and
agencies
Victorian Government departments and agencies relevant to the SEP
site or identified opportunities on the site. These are stakeholders that
may be potential partners, funders or collaborators on projects on the
SEP site in the future.
Elected government officials Ministers and local members of State and Federal Government
relevant to the Draft SEP Vision Plan by either location or portfolio.
These are stakeholders that may be potential partners, funders or
collaborators on projects on the SEP site in the future.
Advisors, Government departments and agencies and Elected government officials were contacted
individually, informed of the Draft SEP Vision Plan and direct meetings were held where relevant.
Type 1, 2 and 3 stakeholder groups were written to (via email and/or mail), invited to attend an online
information session and/or a direct meeting. Segmenting the Type 1, 2 and 3 stakeholder groups enabled
the engagement process and information to be targeted to their particular circumstances and information
needs. For example, representatives from the Department of Transport and Planning attended information
sessions and meetings for Type 1 stakeholders so they were able to discuss and answer questions about
the Albion Station redevelopment and future transformation of Albion Quarter all in the one forum.
Throughout the engagement period feedback was captured in two ways:
•
Formal written statements – via email or post
•
Meetings and informal interactions – including phone calls, in-person discussions and meetings,
email enquiries and general feedback at information sessions.
All participants were encouraged to submit formal written statements.
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3. WHO WE HEARD FROM
Approximately 49 stakeholder organisations/ individual stakeholders participated in the engagement.
Stakeholder reach and participation
A total of 86 stakeholder organisations/ individual stakeholders were directly contacted via email, mail or
phone. A further 319 letters were sent to surrounding residents. In total, approximately 49 participated in
the engagement, and 18 formal written statements were received. These are outlined in Table 2.2 below.
Table 2.2 Engagement methods and participation
Engagement Methods
Participation Count
Formal written statement submitted
18 stakeholders (13 approved to share
publicly)
Stakeholder Information sessions:
•
Type 1 stakeholders – 12 July
•
Type 2 stakeholders – 20 July
•
Type 3 stakeholders – 24 July
•
Type 3 stakeholders – 26 July
16 stakeholder groups represented (22
individuals attended)
Stakeholder meetings
•
Type 1 stakeholders
•
Type 2 stakeholders
•
Type 3 stakeholders
26 stakeholder groups represented (51
individuals participated)
Stakeholder enquiries and discussions via phone or email
only
3 stakeholder groups represented (3
individuals)
Meetings with Advisors
2 advisor organisations represented
Meetings with Government departments and agencies 3 departments/ agencies represented
Meetings with Elected government officials
7
Plus, upcoming meetings were scheduled
with approx. 6 additional elected officials
at time of reporting – not included in total
below.
Total
*Some stakeholders participated in more than one activity
and submitted a formal written statement.
73
Approx 49* stakeholder organisations/
individual stakeholders
(with some
participating in multiple engagement
activities)
Formal written statements
Of the 18 stakeholders that provided formal written statements, the following 13 have given permission for
their submission to be made public:
•
Albion & Ardeer Community Club Inc
•
Australian Unity – Sunshine Private Hospital
•
BikeWest
•
Brimbug
•
Cadence
•
Friends of Kororoit Creek
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•
Henkell Brothers
•
Islamic Guidance Society of Australia / Khalid bin Al-Waleed Mosque (Albion Mosque)
•
NBL
•
Tennis Victoria
•
Victoria University
•
Volleyball Victoria
•
Western Pigeon Federation of Victoria
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4. FORMAL WRITTEN STATEMENTS
This section presents the 13 written statements approved to be shared publicly and an assessment of each
against the following categories:
A. Stakeholder support for the Draft Vision
B. Stakeholder recommended changes to the Draft Vision
C. Stakeholder feedback for consideration in the implementation of the Vision
Statements have been presented verbatim.
4.1 Albion and Ardeer Community Club Inc
Statement
Brimbank City Council
Many tks for forwarding information about the Council vision proposals, for Sunshine Energy Park.
AACC strongly supports the proposals and vision. Importantly, the proposals appear to be supportive, and
well connected. to the Council adopted 'Vision 2050' transformation advocacy, which, as you will be aware,
the local community strongly supports.
As we know, the State Government has committed to a reconstruction of the Albion Railway Station, and,
for one thing, we see that it very important that these works do connect to the Energy Park area, and that a
Draft Vision for the Park can greatly assist in integrated planning for the area, including the 'Albion Quarter'
proposed urban redevelopment.
We see the key elements being, therefore: 1. A strong commitment to heritage protection and
enhancement, particularly the John Darling Mill site ... 2. Preventing commuter traffic from a focus on the
westside of Albion Station ... (while supporting car-parking on the east side) ... 3. Revitalisation,
beautification and enhancement of Stony Creek, in the area ...eg the Steve Bracks vision for a Green
Corridor, from Silo/Energy Park in the north, to Silo in the south.... 4 High quality non-vehicular access
northwest from the Station to Energy Park ... (eg facilitation bike and suchlike traffic towards Sunshine City
Centre).
Happy to discuss, if that would assist ... cheers,
Assessment
A. Stakeholder support for the Draft Vision
•
Strong support for the vision, it’s connection to Sunshine Priority Precinct Vision 2050, and role it
can play in achieving integrated planning for the area.
B. Stakeholder recommended changes to the Draft Vision
C. Stakeholder Feedback for consideration in the implementation of the Vision
•
Create good connections between Albion Park Station and SEP.
•
Ensure a strong commitment to heritage protection and enhancement.
•
Consider the creation of a green corridor from SEP to the Silo in the south.
•
Plan for high-quality, non-vehicular access northwest from the station to SEP.
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4.2 Australian Unity – Sunshine Private Hospital
Statement
Thank you for the opportunity for the Australian Unity Healthcare team to participate with the Engagement
Team in considering the master planning of the Sunshine Energy Park. (SEP)
As discussed the proposal could contribute positively to the health and wellbeing of the wider community as
well as being an important place for recreation and relaxation for the staff, patients and visitors to the
Sunshine Private Hospital.
We encourage Council to consider connecting the SEP to established or proposed walk and cycle ways, to
ensure that there is sufficient parking for visitors, and to consider ways to integrate FOGO waste streams
with the community gardens.
The Sunshine Private Hospital is currently serviced by a 2 MW substation with capacity to expand to a 4
MW substation. As part of our commitment to pursuing a net zero future we would be interested in
participating with Council as an end-user in the proposed solar energy generation within the SEP.
Brimbank’s diverse cultural heritage could also be reflected by using part of the park for a permanent
Sculpture Park which could commission pieces to be used in public places or displayed within the SEP. An
example of this is the McClelland Gallery and Sculpture Park at Langwarrin within the City of Frankston.
Finally we applaud Council and its staff for seeking to improve Sunshine with the innovative proposal.
Assessment
A. Stakeholder support for the Draft Vision
•
Strong support for the draft vision, praising it as an innovative proposal and pleased that it will
contribute positively to the health and wellbeing of the community and to hospital staff, patients and
visitors.
B. Stakeholder recommended changes to the Draft Vision
•
Consider connecting the SEP to established or proposed walking and cycling paths, to ensure that
there is sufficient parking for visitors.
•
Consider ways to integrate FOGO waste streams with the community gardens.
•
Consider a Sculpture Park within SEP to reflect Brimbank’s diverse cultural heritage.
C. Stakeholder Feedback for consideration in the implementation of the Vision
•
Consider Sunshine Private Hospital as an end-user in the proposed solar energy generation within
the SEP.
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4.3 BikeWest
Statement
BikeWest’s submission is a 12-page report (see Appendix 6.1). Below is an excerpt from the submission
relating specifically to Sunshine Energy Park.
Sunshine Energy Park
The Sunshine Energy Park (SEP) Vision Plan proposes mountain bike trails to allow for mountain biking as
well as a pump track. BikeWest strongly endorses this proposal as it aligns with our previous collaborate
work with Maribyrnong Council on their recently adopted Bike Sports Strategy with a strong focus on local
places for local people. This does not preclude visitors from further afield but facilitates local use as a
starting point. Survey data by BikeWest about Quarry Park indicates visitors come from all parts of
Melbourne including international backpackers who hire bikes and travel to Quarry Park. Given the ease of
access from Albion train station we envisage the SEP attracting visitors from many parts of Melbourne
including international visitors.
The Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan also correctly that currently mountain bike riding is a heavily male
dominated sport. This is also observed at Quarry Park and something BikeWest is attempting to address in
collaboration with Westside Cycle Club and local schools and we are pleased to see Brimbank Council
acknowledge the issue. BikeWest hopes that Brimbank Council will take this opportunity to collaborate with
both BikeWest and Westside Cycle Club. BikeWest is also assisting the facilitation of a pilot program by the
US high school mountain bike organisation, NICA. This project should be launched in the west of
Melbourne in 2024 (#MoreKidsOnBikes). Future mountain bike trails in Sunshine would help expand this
program (https://nationalmtb.org/ )
The proposed pump track also presents the opportunity to include a broad range of users due to their
inherently flexible design and appeal. The pump track at Quarry Park is in constant use throughout the
year. In the UK most local governments are installing pump tracks and the experience of Velosolutions with
their Wishawhill Wood pump track provides a perfect example of tapping into latent demand
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n4auyR3mjTs
The design of the trails may take cues from the world’s best practice urban bike park, the Tom Dumoulin
Bike Park. The Tom Dumoulin Bike Park (TDBP) is an innovative, high-quality, world-class facility designed
to cater for road cyclists, mountain bikers and BMX riders, for all ages and abilities. The park occupies an
area of 6 hectares with different surface types making it possible for riders to tackle tracks with different
levels of technical difficulty. It offers an ideal way of gaining experience and perfecting skills in a safe,
innovative environment. The innovative design means that a total of fifty different courses can be set out,
six of which can be ridden on simultaneously. Over 2000 people regularly use this park at the same time.
While the TDBP occupies a larger area than that proposed for the mountain bike trails and pump track, a
smaller version drawing upon the flexible design would greatly add to the flexibility and benefit of the trails.
Sustainability Hub
BikeWest is also very excited to see Brimbank Council’s focus on sustainability and the circular economy.
This presents another opportunity for collaboration with both BikeWest and the Inner West Community Bike
Hub (IWCBH). BikeWest works closely with the IWCBH on bicycle maintenance programs for school
students (Footscray High School) and promoting reuse, refurbishment and recycling of bikes. The IWCBH
promotes social inclusion as well through the sale of cheap, high quality bikes and has donated over 300
bikes to refugees. BikeWest recommends strongly that Brimbank Council approach the IWCBH to discuss
what opportunities exist for the establishment of a new bike hub in the SEP.
Summary
BikeWest is excited by the opportunities presented in the Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan and strongly
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endorses the inclusion of the mountain bike trails, pump track and sustainability hub (resource recovery
centre). Given our expertise and experience in developing the Maribyrnong Bike Sports Strategy we look
forward to colaboarting with Brimbank Council to help see their vision come to fruition.
Assessment
A. Stakeholder support for the Draft Vision
•
Strong support for the draft vision in particular the mountain bike trails, pump track and
sustainability hub (resource recovery centre).
B. Stakeholder recommended changes to the Draft Vision
•
Consider a bike hub as part of the sustainability centre (in collaboration with BikeWest and the
Inner West Community Bike Hub (IWCBH).
C. Stakeholder Feedback for consideration in the implementation of the Vision
•
Consider collaborating with BikeWest and Westside Cycle Club in future SEP projects, including a
pilot mountain bike project already underway in Brimbank (#MoreKidsOnBikes).
•
Consider best practice design of urban bike parks when designing for SEP (e.g. The Tom
Dumoulin Bike Park) and take into account research and studies from around the world to ensure a
bike park and pump track design that will be heavily utilised and accommodate a range of riders of
all ages and abilities.
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4.4 Brimbug
Statement
On behalf of Brimbug, and following the Zoom presentation, I would say that the vision plan for the
Sunshine Energy park would be a great asset to Brimbank and our surrounding communities and we fully
support the concept.
From a cycling prospective, it is imperative that a well plan bike connection from the Western Ring Road,
Stony creek, Jones creek and Kororiot creek paths are established and improved, so as many people can
come, visit and play at the Park without the use of cars with a good connection to public transport.
The inclusion of a BMX track amongst other sporting activities, will attract young riders and create a culture
to become a cyclists in a safe environment.
Assessment
A. Stakeholder support for the Draft Vision
•
Strong support for the draft vision stating it would create a great asset for Brimbank and
surrounding communities as well as culture of learning to ride in a safe environment.
B. Stakeholder recommended changes to the Draft Vision
C. Stakeholder Feedback for consideration in the implementation of the Vision
•
Consider planning good bike connections from the Western Ring Road, Stony Creek, Jones Creek
and Kororoit Creek to SEP, so people can access the park by riding or via public transport and
without the need for a car.
4.5 Cadence
Statement
I am writing to express my support for the Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan, which is currently open for
public consultation.
The comprehensive vision outlined for this 54-hectare urban parkland is impressive. It encompasses a wide
array of opportunities ranging from cultural heritage and ecological restoration to community engagement
and sustainable development.
The deliberate integration of features that promote connection to Country, sports, recreation, education,
events, recycling, energy production, horticulture, habitat creation and social interaction is a testament to
the careful consideration of community needs and aspirations.
Furthermore, the park’s strategic location, adjacent to major sporting corridors, residential areas,
employment centres, and educational institutions, positions Sunshine Energy Park as a central contributor
to the goal of making Sunshine the capital of Melbourne’s west.
The park’s adjacency to the Albion Quarter offers a unique opportunity to enhance pedestrian connectivity
within the precinct, spanning the rail corridor, and regionally through an upgraded and re-built Albion
Station. These connections will play a pivotal role in shaping the park’s identity and its seamless integration
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into the community fabric.
In today’s context, accessibility by rail is a crucial aspect for any major sporting precinct. It’s paramount that
the development of Sunshine Energy Park includes highly visible, safe, and visually appealing links to
Albion Station.
I am pleased to endorse the visionary plan put forward for Sunshine Energy Park and I commend the
efforts of Council in creating a space that is both environmentally sustainable and culturally enriching.
This project carries the potential to make a substantial contribution to the overall health, well-being, social
cohesion, and economic prosperity of the Brimbank community and beyond.
As this vision continues to evolve, I eagerly anticipate its ongoing engagement with stakeholders, its pursuit
to securing funding, and ultimately effecting the transformation that will resonate for generations to come.
Thank you for Council’s dedication to creating a brighter, more sustainable future for the Brimbank
community.
Assessment
A. Stakeholder support for the Draft Vision
•
Strong support for the draft vision stating it is visionary, impressive and considers the community’s
needs and aspirations along with its strategic location, enabling it to contribute to making Sunshine
the Capital of Melbourne’s West.
•
Other supporting comments include:
o
The project will make a substantial contribution to the overall health, well-being, social
cohesion, and economic prosperity of the Brimbank community and beyond
o
The plan integrates features that promote connection to Country, sports, recreation,
education, events, recycling, energy production, horticulture, habitat creation and social
interaction.
B. Stakeholder recommended changes to the Draft Vision
C. Stakeholder Feedback for consideration in the implementation of the Vision
•
Enhance pedestrian connectivity within the precinct, spanning the rail corridor, and regionally
through an upgraded and re-built Albion Station.
•
Ensure SEP includes highly visible, safe, and visually appealing links to Albion Station.
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4.6 Friends of Kororoit Creek
Statement
Thank you for the opportunity to give our feedback on the Sunshine Energy Park – an exciting project! As
discussed in our meetings – some written feedback on the points we went over.
The FOKC would like the SEP to be conservation led:
• Retaining or creating “wild” spaces within the development – with no paths, less manicuring – to provide
stress free habitat for wildlife. Careful surveying of what flora and fauna is currently present in the space.
More trees along paths to shade people.
• We’d love to see the wetlands be as big and useful as possible – making sure they are in the best
position in the development. A wetland would be a fantastic draw for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and a
haven for local wildlife like many of our endangered bird and frog species.
• The roof of the large arena to be utilised as a conservation space – a grassland with indigenous grasses
and wildflowers providing habitat for local insect and bird populations. We discussed whether it would be
viable in a space that size to release any lizard species - where they would be relatively protected and
could be monitored closely. Could borrow the idea from the Friends of Iramoo and have the plantings
grouped in a way that create an animal or cool pattern from above.
• The Ceres style area could be a great opportunity to provide a space for local environmental friends
group to have a base - meeting rooms, storage, nursery to raise plants and run workshops. An Indigenous
designed information area with a special place for Smoking Ceremonies and Welcome to Country.
• Educational signage in multiple languages, events and workshops about local species and environments
that people need to understand the importance of more clearly e.g. - possums, bats, grasslands, containing
cats, snakes and their vital role in the ecosystem, the Climate Emergency etc.
• Enhancing and restoring the sections of Jones Creek adjacent to the site – our waterways are a huge
asset. People should be encouraged to cycle and walk along Kororoit Creek and Jones Creek to get to the
park. It would be brilliant to restore and enhance the section of Stony Creek that runs from Anderson Rd in
central Sunshine up towards the SEP site – this would be a fantastic way to travel to and from the site.
Cities and towns that make the most of and celebrate their waterways are the best cities and towns!
• Could there be an electric shuttle bus and/or bike hire from main Brimbank city centres to the park?
Particularly for big sporting events. Parking needs to be looked at so that the residents of Albion and
Sunshine aren’t inundated with cars.
• Deep engagement with the Wurundjeri Woi-Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation, Brimbank
City Council Conservation team and Melbourne Water and continued engagement with local environmental
and cultural groups.
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Assessment
A. Stakeholder support for the Draft Vision
•
Support for the draft vision stating it is an exciting project with a range of opportunities for the
environment and nature.
B. Stakeholder recommended changes to the Draft Vision
•
Consider retaining or creating “wild” spaces within SEP – with no paths, less manicuring – to
provide stress free habitat for wildlife. Careful surveying of what flora and fauna is currently present
in the space.
•
Plant more trees along paths within SEP to provide shade.
•
Consider creating a conservation space on the roof of the large arena with indigenous grasses and
wildflowers to provide habitat for local insect (lizards) and bird populations.
•
Consider creating spaces/ meeting rooms for local environmental friends groups (at the resource
recovery centre) for meetings, storage, nursery to raise plants and run workshops.
•
Consider the inclusion of an Indigenous designed information area with a special place for
Smoking Ceremonies and Welcome to Country.
•
Consider educational signage in multiple languages in SEP.
•
Consider spaces to host events and workshops that educate people about local species and the
environment.
•
Consider enhancing and restoring the sections of Jones Creek adjacent to the site and Stony
Creek that runs from Anderson Road in central Sunshine to encourage people to cycle and walk to
SEP.
•
Consider an electric shuttle bus and/or bike hire from main Brimbank city centres to the park,
particularly for big sporting events to reduce the number of people coming to SEP by car.
C. Stakeholder Feedback for consideration in the implementation of the Vision
•
Take a conservation-led approach to SEP.
•
Consider enlarging the wetlands, making it a drawcard for visitors and a habitat for local wildlife/
endangered species.
•
Ensure deep engagement with the Wurundjeri Woi-Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal
Corporation, Brimbank City Council Conservation team, Melbourne Water and continued
engagement with local environmental and cultural groups.
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4.7 Henkell Brothers
Statement
As a stakeholder in the Sunshine area, by way of our commercial land holdings, we were very pleased to
see the vision for the Sunshine Energy Park.
The repositioning of the Sunshine area has been a hot topic of conversation for a number of years with
much attention given to the public transport links and development of the commercial business district.
However the true strengths of a community are in its ability to give back and the Sunshine Energy Park
precinct is something that can only propel the community forward. The creation of much needed,
ascetically pleasing community space and sporting facilities will be a very welcome addition. And to be able
to create it on a parcel of land that has long been underutilised is a very clever and strategic move.
Assessment
A. Stakeholder support for the Draft Vision
•
Strong support for the draft vision stating it is clever and strategic and will create much-needed
ascetically pleasing community space and sporting facilities in traditionally underutilised land.
B. Stakeholder recommended changes to the Draft Vision
C. Stakeholder Feedback for consideration in the implementation of the Vision
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Attachment 12.13.4
Draft Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan - Stakeholder Engagement Findings Report
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4.8 Islamic Guidance Society of Australia / Khalid bin Al-Waleed Mosque (Albion
Mosque)
Statement
We, at the Islamic Guidance Society of Australia (IGSA) welcome the new initiative, The Sunshine Energy
Park (SEP) in Albion. Having it Nestled right next door to our mosque and centre will offer a refreshing and
engaging experience within our community, the Brimbank community at large. This park has the potential
to be a dynamic fusion of recreational spaces and sustainability initiatives.
The well-planned pathways, lush greenery, and thoughtful design, together will be creating an ideal
backdrop for both relaxation and outdoor pursuits. The park's emphasis on green technologies and
renewable resources underscores its dedication to much needed ecological mindfulness. There is no doubt
that SEP will be setting an impressive example of uniting the beauty of nature with forward-thinking
approaches. The local community, including institutions like ours, will effectively utilise SEP’s open spaces
as a serene location for community gatherings, events and outdoor activities. Albion (Khalid bin Al-Waleed)
Mosque will consider using the park for religious observances, providing a peaceful setting for prayers or
gatherings during peak seasons such as our annual Festivals; Eid El-Fitr and Eid ul-Adha congregational
sermons. Additionally, the park's sustainable focus aligns well with the values of our community
stewardship that both our faith and mosque promote. This collaboration could involve educational programs
on environmental awareness and energy conservation. Overall, SEP presents a valuable space for the
local community to come together, celebrate and engage in meaningful activities.
Assessment
A. Stakeholder support for the Draft Vision
•
Strong support for the draft vision and its overall direction in relation to creating a space for
community to relax, enjoy nature, come together, celebrate and be sustainable ‘uniting the beauty
of nature with forward-thinking approaches’.
B. Stakeholder recommended changes to the Draft Vision
C. Stakeholder Feedback for consideration in the implementation of the Vision
•
Consider collaboration to deliver educational programs on environmental awareness and energy
conservation.
•
Support the local community, including Albion Mosque, to utilise SEP’s open spaces for community
gatherings, events, religious events and outdoor activities.
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Attachment 12.13.4
Draft Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan - Stakeholder Engagement Findings Report
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4.9 NBL
Statement
The National Basketball League (NBL) provides its support for the Draft Vision and development of
Sunshine Energy Park (SEP). The NBL was privileged to receive a briefing on the SEP Draft Vision from
the engagement team at Brimbank City Council and stands ready to partner with Council and/or the State
in capacities including but not limited to provision of indoor and/or outdoor basketball or netball court
surface materials as well as the fulfilment of elite and semi-elite basketball content at the newly developed
basketball courts and show court.
As indicated in Basketball Victoria’s most recent Facilities Masterplan document, the State of Victoria
needs more indoor basketball and multi-use high-ball courts to meet rapidly rising demand for basketball,
especially in Melbourne’s western metropolitan growth corridors.
Furthermore, NBL audience data demonstrates that the Sunshine region is home to a very significant
number of registered basketball families and players, and that these numbers have grown by a minimum of
5% annually for the past 12 successive years.
The NBL provides its strong support for the development of SEP, and is pleased to be consulted for further
information should it be required, and be considered for future partnership opportunities.
Assessment
A. Stakeholder support for the Draft Vision
•
Strong support for the draft vision in particular sporting opportunities or potential partnerships in
relation to the presented as part of the sporting complex / courts within SEP.
B. Stakeholder recommended changes to the Draft Vision
C. Stakeholder Feedback for consideration in the implementation of the Vision
•
Consider further consultation or potential opportunities with the NBL in delivering court surface
materials as well as the fulfilment of elite and semi-elite basketball content.
•
Consider the growing popularity of basketball, especially in Melbourne’s western metropolitan
growth corridors.
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Attachment 12.13.4
Draft Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan - Stakeholder Engagement Findings Report
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4.10 Tennis Victoria
Statement
Tennis Victoria sees the option for 4 or more multi-lined (eg. Tennis & Netball) acrylic (cushioned) courts
within the proposed indoor multi-sport stadium as a great opportunity to continue the work in Brimbank City
Council to create safe, inclusive and thriving Victorian tennis communities, enabling more people to play
more often. A strategic focus of Tennis Victoria is to optimize the use, management and access to facilities,
thereby creating a sustainable future for venues.
We suggest that if the venue is to be managed/staffed, that it does not become a venue with a home club,
rather a venue that can be booked for casual and social play, and specific recreation groups. If the venue is
to be staffed, renting of equipment (balls and racquets of varying compression levels and sizes) would
reduce barriers to participation and provide a truly accessible tennis option for the community.
This indoor tennis venue may particularly allow for engagement from the Blind and Low Vision Tennis
Community, who currently have limited appropriate participation spaces. Many players who participate in
blind and low vision tennis currently train outdoors which provide less suitable conditions due to wind,
glare/light and noise.
As the council is already well across, the benefits of the Tennis Australia Book- A-Court system has seen
the accessibility of casual tennis participation grow significantly in recent years. Once seen as a “members
only” sport, the opening of courts to non-members, and the ability to book your court online and play your
own way has seen more people come to our game. We see the potential for the venue to be on the same
platform as all other tennis venues (ClubSpark), and linked to the national Play.Tennis website, as a key
consideration for systems setup at the venue.
We see the inclusion of tennis courts as part of this broader facility plan as a compliment to the Thriving
Tennis Community that currently exists in Brimbank City Council thanks to the efforts of council staff and
budgeted investment, community participation and interest, and of course, the tireless work of club
volunteers and coaches who bring our sport to life everyday.
Assessment
A. Stakeholder support for the Draft Vision
B. Stakeholder recommended changes to the Draft Vision
•
Consider 4 or more multi-lined (eg. Tennis & Netball) acrylic (cushioned) courts within the
proposed indoor multi-sport stadium.
C. Stakeholder Feedback for consideration in the implementation of the Vision
•
Consider creating a staffed venue that allows for casual and social play where people can hire
equipment to increase accessibility to the space and reduce barriers.
•
Consider using the Book-A-Court system to further support and encourage casual and social play.
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Attachment 12.13.4
Draft Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan - Stakeholder Engagement Findings Report
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4.11 Victoria University
Statement
Thank you for the invitation to provide feedback and input in response to Council’s release of the draft
Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan, 2022.
I would like to commend the Council for taking the initiative to outline a bold vision for the transformation of
Sunshine Energy Park. As a major industrial site with proximity to the soon to be redeveloped Albion
Station, and being located close to the Sunshine Priority Precinct, the site has potential to become a major
open space and environmental asset for the communities of Brimbank and Melbourne’s west and to be a
destination of local, regional and state significance.
We have appreciated the opportunities to meet with Council staff and representatives of the relevant
Government departments to discuss the vision for Sunshine Energy Park and to consider the relationship
between the future Park and Victoria University, which we consider to be one of great potential.
I confirm that VU supports the directions outlined in the Energy Park Vision Plan with many aspects
consistent with VU’s aspirations for the region. Further feedback is provided in the Attachment to this letter
(see Appendix 6.2).
In line with our recently renewed MOU partnership, we seek to collaborate with Council to realise the full
potential of the Sunshine Energy Park over the coming years.
Assessment
A. Stakeholder support for the Draft Vision
•
Strong support for the draft vision, stating SEP had the potentially to become a major open space
and environmental asset for Brimbank and Melbourne’s west and to be a destination of local,
regional and state significance.
B. Stakeholder recommended changes to the Draft Vision
C. Stakeholder Feedback for consideration in the implementation of the Vision
•
Continue to partner with Victoria University in local project including the delivery of SEP.
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Attachment 12.13.4
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4.12 Volleyball Victoria
Statement
Volleyball Victoria’s submission is an 11-page slide pack (see Appendix 6.3). Below is an excerpt from the
submission relating specifically to growth of Volleyball in Victoria, the Volleyball gap in western metro
region, the opportunity in Brimbank and Sunshine Energy Park.
Growth of Volleyball in Victoria
•
Victorian State League team entries have increased 22% in 2023 from the previous year, and a
whopping 88% from 2019 pre-covid numbers.
•
School based participation has also risen significantly.
o
1-day Indoor Victorian Schools Cup event has grown 71%, from 139 team entries pre-covid
(2019), to 238 entries in 2023.
o
1-day Victorian Beach Schools Cup event has risen 80% from 178 in 2019 to 322 in 2022.
•
Registration for the 2023 Victorian State Youth Beach trials have risen 62% from the previous year,
•
Athletes trailing for Victorian Indoor Youth State representation have risen 45% from 2022.
•
Volleyball is now ranked as the 4th most participated sport in Victorian Secondary Schools in 2022 (up
from 9th prior to Covid in 2019). (source: SSV)
Volleyball Gap in Western Metro Region
•
A gap exists across the western metro region.
o
Volleyball Victoria developing a Western Region Growth Strategy to unlock the potential for the
sport.
o
Why – limited access, and organised opportunities
•
Facilities – community-based affiliates - structured services
o
VVI – advocating for a strategic foundation for places to play grass roots programs, facility
advocacy, capacity building through new affiliates
o
LG – development of fit for purpose facilities to support recreational play, training, competition
Brimbank Opportunity and Volleyball Demand
•
Fill the GAP - majority of existing volleyball services found in neighbouring LGA areas – Altona,
Maribyrnong, Braybrook, Footscray.
o
Desperate need to address barriers to play & unlock interest & potential across the Western
suburbs through additional volleyball services and accredited operators
•
Active affiliation being sort by existing groups across the LGA (Derrimut Knights & Aegies Gym teams)
o
VVI could provide tools to support the implementation of governance and operational structures
for new affiliates
o
Support needed by LG to help new affiliates access suitable venues for competition and training
purposes + seek grass roots funding to building capacity, compliance & strengthen community
delivery
•
Increasing volleyball options align with the “Community Vision 2040, Council Plan 2021-2025 & Health
& Wellbeing Municipal Plan 2021-2025 strategic directions to encourage “healthy lifestyles”, ensure
that “services & facilities” are responsive to community needs, and recognise and celebrate the LGA
“culture & diversity”, through leadership, services, development funding, partnerships and advocacy.
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Attachment 12.13.4
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•
Registered VVI members currently travel on average 15-20km to access VVI competition and training
•
Support needed for emerging affiliates through
o
access to infrastructure
o
capacity building, governance and compliance support and mentoring
•
Local demand for greater access to more courts and competition pathways
o
Derrimut Knights Volleyball Club
o
Aegis Gym Volleyball Club
•
Surrounding VVI affiliates supporting the inner west are at capacity OR resource constrained
o
Western Region Volleyball Club – Maribyrnong, Braybrook College, Caroline Springs
and Melton venues – wait list and trials
o
Volley Friends United Melbourne – MSAC and Altona Sports Centre – limited and poor facility
access
Sunshine Energy Park
•
Opportunity to unlock interest in volleyball and diversify recreational options that more accurately
reflect the local community
o
Indoor & outdoor solutions incorporating multi-sports design. ie Traditional Sports + Volleyball +
Foot volley + Newcomb + Speak Takraw etc.
o
Local solutions help support integration, strengthen social cohesion and networking through a
shared interest, as well we address barriers to sport such as cost, transport, culture, language as
noted in the Vic Sports “Youth Sports Participation Strategy”, Regional Priority Precinct
o
Show court potential to host state, national and international competition
o
Currently no suitable location in the inner west to host Victorian State League or
National/International volleyball competition.
•
Development of transport links
o
Help address transport and travel barrier to play especially amongst the youth
Assessment
A. Stakeholder support for the Draft Vision
•
Support for the sporting opportunities and potential partnerships in relation to the sporting complex
/ stadium within SEP.
•
Support for the development of transport links to help address transport and travel barriers to sport,
especially amongst youth.
B. Stakeholder recommended changes to the Draft Vision
C. Stakeholder Feedback for consideration in the implementation of the Vision
•
Consider further consultation or potential opportunities with Volleyball Victoria to close the current
gap in volleyball facilities in the western Melbourne region.
•
Consider the growing popularity of Volleyball in Victoria, especially in schools (now 4
th
most played
sport in Victorian Secondary Schools).
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Attachment 12.13.4
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4.13 Western Pigeon Federation of Victoria
Statement
The WPF executive committee thoroughly enjoyed meeting you both. We particularly liked your enthusiasm
and passion for improving the Western suburbs bringing a world-class sporting and community hub was
encouraging and we are proud to support such a remarkable initiative.
Furthermore, we would be delighted to an extended an invitation to you, the council, and the planning
committee to view our processes and procedure in preparing the thoroughbreds of the sky to get ready for
a race on a basketing night which is now conducted on a Thursday evening at around 6:30PM.
Collectively our members are of the opinion that the initiatives you have shown us with a purpose-built
facility for the WPF to help us remain on the site were well received and encouraging. To that end, we
would be very happy to support your proposal.
We believe our presence on the site in the areas that you nominated and possibly Plan B if the wetlands
area is not supported by our climate we could be moved to the top left-hand corner to help eradicate “rif raf”
to that end space; providing security and prudential oversight to the area.
We have provided photos of the Western Pigeon Federation of Victoria in full swing basketing on Friday 18
August 2023 for our race from Hillston approx. 500km North of Melbourne in central NSW.
As you can see, we utilise both buildings and the car park in their entirety.
The larger building is used for our members to basket the racing pigeons and the smaller building is used
to house the transporter and specially designed units to hold the bird.
The car park is quite full, and our members require close access to be able to carry their special purpose
transporting baskets from their cars to the building.
The Western Pigeon Federation of Victoria is seen as the “AFL House” of the Western Region catering for
organisation as far out as Bacchus Marsh, Geelong, and the Macedon Ranges. We work closely with other
Victoria Racing Pigeon Organisations who often visit our building and also support the Melbourne Pigeon
Society which show cases exotic pigeons and hold their annual show in out building.
We believe our outreaching boundary will support and encourage people to visit the area if the vision
becomes a reality.
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Attachment 12.13.4
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Please don't hesitate to reach out further either to me, <name removed for privacy> or <name removed for
privacy> should you need any further clarification on a particular point about specific needs.
We look forward to working with you and seeing your plans come into reality.
Assessment
A. Stakeholder support for the Draft Vision
•
Strong support for the draft vision stating it would be a world-class sporting and community hub
with particular support for a purpose built WPF facility on the site.
B. Stakeholder recommended changes to the Draft Vision
•
Consider a purpose built WPF facility on the site in the areas nominated or possibly at the top left
hand corner of the site.
C. Stakeholder Feedback for consideration in the implementation of the Vision
•
Current car park is usually full on event days.
•
Members require close access from their cars to the building to be able to carry their special
purpose pigeon transporting baskets.
•
The WPF hosts visitors from other racing clubs and supports events run by the Melbourne Pigeon
Society.
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Attachment 12.13.4
Draft Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan - Stakeholder Engagement Findings Report
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5. OVERALL FINDINGS
As noted in Section 2, throughout the engagement period feedback was captured in two ways:
•
Formal written statements – via email or post
•
Meetings and informal interactions – including phone calls, in-person discussions and meetings,
email enquiries and general feedback at information sessions.
All participants were encouraged to submit formal written statements, however many did not.
To give the fullest understanding of the stakeholder engagement, this Overall Findings section will report
on insights from both the formal written statements and the meetings and informal interactions. These are
reported separately so a clear distinction can be made between the two.
Please note: the outcomes and findings from engagement with Elected government officials and Advisors
will be reported separately by Brimbank City Council officers.
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Attachment 12.13.4
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5.1Type 1 - Properties (land owners and tenants) adjacent to SEP and the Albion quarter
precinct
Written statements (n= 3)
Meetings and informal interactions
Sentiment
•
Potential to make a substantial
contribution to the overall health,
well-being, social cohesion, and
economic prosperity of the Brimbank
community and beyond.
•
The creation of much needed,
ascetically pleasing community
space and sporting facilities will be a
very welcome addition. And to be
able to create it on a parcel of land
that has long been underutilised is a
very clever and strategic move
.
•
Creating a space that is both
environmentally sustainable and
culturally enriching.
•
An impressive and comprehensive
vision, encompassing a wide array
of opportunities.
•
A careful consideration of
community needs and aspirations.
•
Central contributor to the goal of
making Sunshine the capital of
Melbourne’s west.
•
The site has potential to become a
major open space and
environmental asset for the
communities of Brimbank and
Melbourne’s west and to be a
destination of local, regional and
state significance.
•
Positive and excited about what is
planned.
•
View SEP as a vital part of transforming
Sunshine into the CBD of the west.
•
Strong support for:
o
Sustainability and environment
aspects of SEP
o
Training and education pathways for
sport at SEP
o
Community spaces – a place for
people in the west to gather
o
Use of stadium as a convention
venue and for cultural activities
o
The green space on top of the
stadium.
•
A sense of optimism about the impact
this will have on the area.
•
Enthusiastic to be involved in planning
for the future.
•
Ready and waiting for change to
happen.
Issues
identified
•
It’s paramount that the development
of Sunshine Energy Park includes
highly visible, safe, and visually
appealing links to Albion Station.
•
Ease of movement and connections,
including pedestrian and cycling, is
critical for the success of SEP.
•
Identified SEP’s safe and easy
integration with public transport as key
for activating this area and needed for
major sports facilities.
•
Consider it vital that the Albion Station
platform extends underneath Ballarat
Road to enable easy pedestrian
connections through SEP.
•
Concern about the current “appeal” of
Sunshine but that SEP could be used
to improve this.
•
Uncertainty around funding and
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Written statements (n= 3)
Meetings and informal interactions
delivery of state and federal transport
projects (including the Airport Rail link).
•
Concern around growing food and
tending to gardens under powerlines.
Opportunities
identified
•
A unique opportunity to enhance
pedestrian connectivity within the
precinct.
•
The relationship between the future
park and Victoria University has
great potential.
•
Opportunity of SEP to help activate the
broader area
•
Mentioned that SEP would help attract
people to the area including:
o
Residents
o
Staff (attracting and retaining)
o
Investors
o
Visitors (visitor economy)
•
Opportunity to think outside of the
square with people movement through
this area, including scooters, trams and
moving walkways.
•
Creating an east-west pedestrian
connection with Albion Station would
connect SEP through Albion Quarter to
Victoria University.
•
The creation of a mass transport ‘metro
loop’ that travels along the southern
border of SEP, connecting the stadium
to all the other critical place
components of the broader Sunshine
Priority Precinct.
•
Possible opportunity for SEP to partner
with Victoria University’s sports and
exercise science disciplines and
leverage existing sporting partnerships
of Victoria University’s.
•
Possible opportunities for the SEP
stadium to be used as a convention
venue for local organisations such as
Victoria University.
•
Opportunity to expand/partner with Ace
Karts to activate the area surrounding
their current operations.
•
Opportunity for local education
providers to leverage the sports
grounds and facilities in SEP.
•
The walking, cycling and public
transport connection improvements
identified as part of SEP will support
surrounding landowners to
transition/activate their land.
Other
•
Some scepticism about State and Local
Government commitments to projects
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Written statements (n= 3)
Meetings and informal interactions
in this area.
•
Victoria University has a strong interest
in electric vehicles/ sustainable
transport. Their industry partners are
currently looking for collaboration
opportunities to develop a prototype
charging station, as well as how to
manufacture and service those type of
vehicles.
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Attachment 12.13.4
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5.2Type 2 - Properties (land owners and tenants) adjacent to SEP only
Written statements (n= 3)
Meetings and informal interactions
Sentiment
•
The proposal could contribute
positively to the health and
wellbeing of the wider community as
well as being an important place for
recreation and relaxation.
•
Seeking to improve Sunshine with
this innovative proposal.
•
This park has the potential to be a
dynamic fusion of recreational
spaces and sustainability initiatives.
•
The well-planned pathways, lush
greenery, and thoughtful design,
together will be creating an ideal
backdrop for both relaxation and
outdoor pursuits.
•
The park's emphasis on green
technologies and renewable
resources underscores its
dedication to much needed
ecological mindfulness.
•
SEP presents a valuable space for
the local community to come
together, celebrate and engage in
meaningful activities.
•
Improving the western suburbs and
bringing a world-class sporting and
community hub... we are proud to
support such a remarkable initiative.
•
Positive and supportive of the draft
vision plan and the opportunities this
presents.
•
Cautiously optimistic for what can be
achieved at this space.
•
Many stakeholders were keen to be
involved.
•
Many were keen for Council to make it
happen.
Issues
identified
•
The need to improve connections to the
park – pedestrian, cycling and public
transport.
•
Interested in the impacts of growing
food and tending to gardens under
power lines and what the
recommendations are.
•
The need to review parking in the area
– striking the right balance.
•
Traffic movement concerns in the area
through Carrington Drive and Hulett
Street.
•
Ensuring existing SEP tenants are
included and involved in the plans.
•
If moved, the new location of the
Western Federation Pigeon Club would
need vehicle access for a semi-trailer to
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Written statements (n= 3)
Meetings and informal interactions
transport their birds and parking nearby
for their members, who regularly carry
heavy crates with their birds in.
•
Concern was raised regarding the
proposed location of the wetlands - and
discussed avoiding creating the
wetlands near former landfill.
Opportunities
identified
•
Consider connecting the SEP to
established or proposed walk and
cycle ways, to ensure that there is
sufficient parking for visitors.
•
Consider ways to integrate FOGO
waste streams with the community
gardens.
•
Brimbank’s diverse cultural heritage
could also be reflected by using part
of the park for a permanent
Sculpture Park.
•
Sunshine Private Hospital would be
interested in participating with
Council as an end-user in the
proposed solar energy generation
within the SEP.
•
Could involve educational programs
on environmental awareness and
energy conservation.
•
Utilise SEP’s open spaces as a
serene location for community
gatherings, events and outdoor
activities.
•
Opportunity to relocate Western
Pigeon Federation to the top left
hand corner of SEP and create a
purpose-built facility; providing
security and prudential oversight to
the area.
•
To provide holistic health and wellbeing
opportunities at SEP – aligning with the
hospital and education precinct goals.
•
Create additional outdoor spaces for
community to gather including – BBQs,
picnics and recreational sport.
•
Mentioned that SEP would help attract
people to the area including:
o
Residents
o
Staff (attracting and retaining)
o
Investors
o
Visitors (visitor economy)
•
Improving the people movement
options and creating points of interest
and destinations on the paths between
the key areas.
•
Creating a sustainable precinct –
through shared use of energy produced
in the solar farm and the possibility of
shared food waste at the Sustainability
Hub.
•
Keen for traffic improvements in Hulett
Street and Carrington Drive.
•
The pigeon club would welcome a
drive-in facility as part of the draft vision
plan for SEP. Possibly even a turning
circle and a pit that the semi could
reverse into - allowing the truck to be
filled at ground level. This would allow
for a smaller footprint for the club.
•
Opportunity to explore the energy
creation aspects (solar panel farm) and
the food waste opportunities at the
Sustainability Hub for the hospitals.
•
Having somewhere for their patients to
go outside and be in nature would be
wonderful for their mental health.
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Attachment 12.13.4
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5.3Type 3 - Stakeholders – local and outside of Brimbank with a potential interest in SEP
Local community
groups
Written statements (n= 5)
Meetings and informal interactions
Sentiment
•
Strong support for the vision and
it’s connection to Sunshine
Priority Precinct Vision 2050.
•
Strongly endorses the inclusion of
mountain bike trails, pump track
and Sustainability Hub.
•
Excited to see Brimbank
Council’s focus on sustainability
and the circular economy.
•
The vision plan for the Sunshine
Energy Park would be a great
asset to Brimbank and our
surrounding communities and we
fully support the concept.
•
The inclusion of a BMX track
amongst other sporting activities,
will attract young riders and
create a culture to become a
cyclists in a safe environment.
•
An exciting project!
•
Positivity that what’s proposed will
cater to a variety of needs.
•
Excited that caring for country and
local waterways is a driving value of
the draft vision plan.
Issues identified
•
It is very important that the Albion
Station has good connection to
SEP.
•
Need to establish high-quality,
non-vehicular access northwest
from the station to SEP.
•
it is imperative that a well planned
bike connection from the Western
Ring Road, Stony Creek, Jones
Creek and Kororoit Creek paths
are established and improved, so
as many people can come, visit
and play at the Park without the
use of cars with a good
connection to public transport.
•
Particularly for big sporting
events. Parking needs to be
looked at so that the residents of
Albion and Sunshine aren’t
inundated with cars.
•
Public transport connections are
critical for participation levels.
•
Ease of walking/cycling to the
parklands is needed.
•
Some parking is also needed.
•
Love the green roof on the stadium,
but fear this is probably the first
thing that would go if there were
funding cuts. Would be great to
make this non-negotiable.
•
Questioned the location of the
wetlands on the draft vision.
Opportunities
identified
•
The vision for SEP can greatly
assist in integrated planning for
the area and the proposed urban
•
Would be great to do surveys to see
what wildlife are currently calling
SEP home.
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Local community
groups
Written statements (n= 5)
Meetings and informal interactions
development of Albion Quarter.
•
Strong commitment to heritage
protection and enhancement.
•
Creation of a green corridor from
SEP to the Silo in the south.
•
SEP has the potential to attract
visitors from many parts of
Melbourne, including international
students.
•
Opportunity for collaboration with
both BikeWest and the Inner
West Community Bike Hub
(IWCBH) and discuss what
opportunities exist for the
establishment of a new bike hub
in the SEP.
•
Opportunity to collaborate with
both BikeWest and Westside
Cycle Club ongoing.
•
Retaining or creating “wild”
spaces within the development.
•
Careful surveying of what flora
and fauna is currently present in
the space.
•
More trees along paths to shade
people.
•
The wetlands be as big and
useful as possible – making sure
they are in the best position in the
development.
•
The roof of the large arena to be
utilised as a conservation space –
a grassland with indigenous
grasses and wildflowers providing
habitat for local insect and bird
populations – and possibly lizard
species.
•
Group plants in a way that create
an animal or cool pattern from
above.
•
The Ceres style area could be a
great opportunity to provide a
space for local environmental
friends group to have a base -
meeting rooms, storage, nursery
to raise plants and run
workshops.
•
Would be wonderful to include
Jones Creek (current drain) as part
of the plan and naturalise this. This
could become a walkway/path to
SEP.
•
Loved the idea of the Sustainability
Hub and thought this could become
a gathering space for local friends of
groups - for collaboration and
education opportunities.
•
Would also be wonderful to
incorporate wildlife habitat onto the
grassed roof of the stadium - and
incorporate wilderness and
grasslands into the vision.
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Local community
groups
Written statements (n= 5)
Meetings and informal interactions
•
An Indigenous designed
information area with a special
place for Smoking Ceremonies
and Welcome to Country.
•
Educational signage in multiple
languages, events and
workshops about local species
and the environment.
•
Enhancing and restoring the
sections of Jones Creek adjacent
to the site... People should be
encouraged to cycle and walk
along Kororoit Creek and Jones
Creek to get to the park.
•
Restore and enhance the section
of Stony Creek that runs from
Anderson Road in central
Sunshine up towards the SEP
site – this would be a fantastic
way to travel to and from the site.
•
Could there be an electric shuttle
bus and/or bike hire from main
Brimbank city centres to the
park?
•
Deep engagement with the
Wurundjeri Woi-Wurrung Cultural
Heritage Aboriginal Corporation,
Brimbank City Council
Conservation team and
Melbourne Water and continued
engagement with local
environmental and cultural
groups.
Potential Partners
Written statements (n= 4)
Meetings and informal interactions
Sentiment
•
Thrilled at the inclusion of a
Sustainability Hub.
•
Support the Draft Vision and
development of SEP.
•
Excited and encouraging of the
vision and proposed stadium
facilities.
•
A few of the potential partners were
keen to explore opportunities to
collaborative – and were open to
multiuse facilities.
Issues identified
•
Public transport connections are
critical for their participants
•
Ease of walking/cycling to the
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parklands is needed
•
Some parking is also needed
•
Identified the need to plan the size,
location, seating capacity and
logistics for the stadium /
sportsgrounds to meet the
requirements of each sport – and to
map this out early in the process.
Opportunities
identified
•
The NBL... stands ready to partner
with Council and/or the State in
capacities including but not limited
to provision of indoor and/or
outdoor basketball or netball court
surface materials as well as the
fulfilment of elite and semi-elite
basketball content at the newly
developed basketball courts and
show court.
•
Tennis Victoria sees the option for
4 or more multi-lined (eg. Tennis &
Netball) acrylic (cushioned) courts
within the proposed indoor multi
sport stadium.
•
This indoor tennis venue may
particularly allow for engagement
from the Blind and Low Vision
Tennis Community, who currently
have limited appropriate
participation spaces. Many players
who participate in blind and low
vision tennis currently train
outdoors which provide less
suitable conditions due to wind,
glare/light and noise.
•
Volleyball Victoria sees the
opportunity to unlock interest in
volleyball and diversify recreational
options that more accurately
reflect the local community.
•
Show court potential to host state,
national and international
competition. <There is> Currently
no suitable location in the inner
west to host Victorian State
League or National/International
volleyball competition.
•
It would be good to offer indoor
tennis courts for those with low or
no vision. Currently they must travel
into the city to play indoors.
•
Could use Rebound Ace (a
cushioned indoor sports surface) for
the indoor tennis courts – which
would work for netball too – as a
multi-lined facility.
•
There’s an opportunity to include
pop-up Paddle tennis courts to
activate the space (these can be
hired e.g. Australian Open uses
them).
•
Generally, basketball works well
with badminton and volleyball, as
they all have similar flooring needs.
•
Basketball Victoria is happy to work
together on a multipurpose facility -
possibly with netball, badminton
and/or volleyball. Gymnastics can
also work well with these sports.
•
Three on three street basketball is
very popular and could be used to
activate this space.
•
Volleyball doesn't currently have a fit
for purpose venue in western
Melbourne.
•
Would be great to have recreational
volleyball courts near picnic and
toilet facilities - for community and
family gatherings.
•
Two volleyball courts can fit in the
space required for one basketball/
netball court.
•
You can fit 2-3 badminton courts on
a basketball court.
•
Badminton is popular during the day
- so this might work well with
sharing courts with other sports that
are more active in the evenings.
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Other
•
Victoria needs more indoor
basketball and multi-use high-ball
courts to meet rapidly rising
demand for basketball, especially
in Melbourne’s western
metropolitan growth corridors.
•
Volleyball is experiencing a boom
in participation.... Volleyball
Victoria membership has more
than doubled in the past 5 years.
•
Volleyball is now ranked as the 4
th
most participated sport in Victorian
Secondary Schools (in 2022 – up
from 9
th
in 2019).
•
A gap in volleyball facilities exists
across the western metro region
(of Melbourne).
•
Surrounding VVI (Volleyball
Victoria) affiliates supporting the
inner west are at capacity (with
waitlists and trial) or resource
constrained.
•
Stadiums with 8 courts and upwards
can host regional basketball
competitions and national
championships - which draw big
crowds.
•
Basketball Victoria’s junior
competition attracts crowds of 5000
to stadiums across Melbourne on
Friday nights.
•
Volleyball's popularity in Australia
has grown significantly post-covid.
Growth has increased across
recreational, social and competitive
volleyball. Team entries are up 88%
on pre-covid numbers.
•
Volleyball is low contact and low risk
– and is increasingly popular with
schools.
•
Volleyball is being used as a
gateway for sports participation
post-covid and attracting kids that
don't feel confident playing AFL or
rugby.
•
Volleyball has low entry costs, so is
great for all of the community to join
in.
•
Badminton is also popular with
international students and retirees.
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5.4Government departments and agencies
Meetings and informal interactions
Sentiment
•
Positive about the health and wellbeing improvement of having
quality open space near the hospital - for staff, visitors and patients.
•
Health benefits of open space well known and there is a lack of open
space in the hospital precinct.
•
SEP vision supports the community and using the wetlands to
support irrigation needs of the park (incl. Sporting fields) is consistent
with community’s desire to make open space drought proof.
Issues identified
•
Keen for there to be better outcomes of the staff of both hospitals in
terms of safety getting to and from the hospitals.
Opportunities
identified
•
Opportunities to improve the active transport options and public
transport for hospital staff.
•
Opportunities to improve staff wellbeing (and also patients and
visitors) by having an open space asset such as SEP close by.
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6. APPENDICIES
6.1 BikeWest Submission
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6.2 Victoria University Submission
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6.3 Volleyball Victoria Submission
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Gender Impact Assessment Report
Name of policy,
program or service
Sunshine Energy Park Vision
Step 1: Discuss The
Issues
Summary of the
gender issues which
were considered
Participation
Women and girls participate less in formal sport and recreation – need to research
what sport and recreation activities will attract women and girls
Need to explore who mountain biking appeals to and who will benefit more from
this feature
Demographics
Need to understand the gender and intersectional demographics of the
surrounding area
Access and Inclusion
•
Need to consider how to make facilities accessible and inclusive to women and
girls and gender diverse people
•
Consider location of facilities and other amenities like parks/playgrounds
•
Inclusion of CTEP principles into design of parkland, into elements such as
lighting, with the safety of woman and children in mind
Step 2: Gather
Evidence
Outline of the
evidence you have
gathered based on
internal data,
desktop research
and/or stakeholder
engagement
Participation
Geelong City Council undertook a gender impact assessment on its Armstrong
Creek Playground. Council undertook a literature review and found that mountain
biking is more popular with girls than they thought. They consulted with local
mountain biking organisations to discuss membership, types of events and
participation rates. It became clear that boys and girl
s participate equally in
mountain biking activities and competitions up to the age of approximately 13. It
is not until then that participation drops off dramatically for girls and remains
unequal amongst adults, due to both social and structural gender stereotypes.
Studies repeatedly show that males dom
inate the field of mountain biking
A 2010 survey by the IMBA (International Mountain Biking Association) showed
that 60% of women believed that the perception of mountain biking as “hard
‐
core” was deterring women from participating
Women and girls currently participate more in activities that are not provided in
sports faciliti
es, such as recreational walking and outdoor gym/fitness
WHISE
‐
Creating Safe and Inclusive Public Spaces for Women
Mixed use areas where people can walk, play, eat and exercise at different times
of the day ensure that the area is used at all times.
For example, a playground area that also incorporates fitness equipment can be
used by early morning walkers, by parents with small children during the day, by
teenagers doi
ng sport after school and in the early evening.
Access and Inclusion
Research shows that many women and girls do not feel comfortable participating
in traditional sporting and physical activity spaces. Careful consideration of the
placement of facilities, creating gender
‐
sensitive and safe spaces, consideration of
formal and/or informal on
‐
site child
‐
care and targeted programming is essential
to this Vision
Gender E
quity in Design Guidelines – City of Whittlesea
Site Planning
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Playground facilities should be within a reasonable distance and visible from all
playing fields. Consider including clear lines of sight to social / multipurpose
spaces in the pavilion to assist with passive surveillance and supervision.
Where there are multiple playing fields, all users and spectators should have ease
of access to change facilities, social / multipurpose space and other amenities.
Women aged 15 years and older who speak a language other than English at
home tend to participate less often in physical activity. There is a greater
percentage of women who have low proficiency in English,
than there are men, in
the surrounding three suburbs of Albion, North Sunshine and St Albans South.
Providing culturally appropriate spaces, programming and communications
(including signage) needs to be considered.
There are more older women than men (over 70 years) in the surrounding
suburbs of Albion, North Sunshine and
St Albans South and their needs should be
considered in final designs
There is a larger percentage of women with a disability (than men) in the
surrounding three suburbs of Albion, North Sunshine and St Albans South (and
greater than the Brimbank average) and their needs should be considered
in final
designs
Over 6.5% of the households in Sunshine North and St Albans South are single
parent families with children under the age of 15, compared with 6% in Brimbank
overall and 4.4% in Greater Melbourne,
and there needs to be consideration of
low
‐
cost and no
‐
cost
access options to spaces and activities.
Step 3: Make a
Recommendation
Recommendation of
how the policy,
program or service
will meet the needs
of people of different
genders and/or
promote gender
equality
1. Recommended that these considerations are highlighted in the final Vision
document
The reimagining of Sunshine Energy Park will have significant health, wellbeing, social,
environmental, economic and cultural outcomes, and in order to ensure that these are
realised by all parts of community the diversity, age and gender demographics of the
Brimbank community has been considered. For example,
Research shows that many women and girls do not feel comfortable participating
in traditional sporting
and physical activity spaces. Careful consideration of the
placement of facilities, creating gender
‐
sensitive and safe spaces, consideration of
formal and/or informal on
‐
site child
‐
care and targeted programming is essential
to this Vision
Women and girls currently participate more in activities that are not provided in
sports facilities,
such as recreational walking and outdoor gym/fitness, and this is
considered in the Vision
Women aged 15 years and older who speak a language other than English at
home tend to participate less often in physical activity. There is a greater
percentage of women who have low proficiency in English,
than there are men, in
the surrounding three suburbs of Albion, North Sunshine and St Albans South.
Providing culturally appropriate spaces, programming and communications
(including signage) needs to be considered.
2. Playground facilities should be within a reasonable distance and visible from all
playing fields. Consider including clear lines of
sight to social / multipurpose
spaces in the pavilion to assist with passive surveillance and supervision.
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Attachment 12.13.6
3. Where there are multiple playing fields, all users and spectators should have
ease of access to change facilities, social / multipurpose space and other
amenities.
4. Final design should focus on equitable allocation of facilities and activities that
benefit women and men equally. Given that men will predominantly
benefit
from mountain biking trails it is suggested that additional walking paths and
outdoor fitness equipment are included in the final design.
5. Consideration should be made on the gendered outcomes around the provision
of mountain biking tracks. Women participate significantly less in this activity
than men an therefore there
needs to be consideration of either (or both) of
programming for women’s participation or alternative fitness activities
preferred by women (such outdoor gym equipment).
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