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:

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:

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

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

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

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Attachment 12.13.1

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

[subject to funding]

0 50 100 200

400m

ALBION QUARTER

URBAN RENEWAL AREA

Relevant approvals including possible planning approvals may be required throughout the timeframe.

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Attachment 12.13.1

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

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Attachment 12.13.1

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.

LOCAL CONTEXT

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

Modified diagram of Department of Transport and Planning, Sunshine Precinct Opportunity Statement Document November 2021, Figure 2

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Attachment 12.13.1

VISION

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.

PEDESTRIAN &

CYCLIST PATH

UNDER M80

ALBION QUARTER

URBAN RENEWAL AREA

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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."

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.

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.

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Attachment 12.13.1

VISION:

THE PRECINCTS

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Attachment 12.13.1

THE PRECINCTS

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

0

50 100

200m

Albion Quarter

Urban Renewal Area

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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:

Re

establishment of vegetation to protect

and enhance existing habitat corridors

and increase biodiversity

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.

The creation of cultural

gathering nodes and signage that

narrate the site's history and ecological

story,

Major public

artworks that stand as a prominent and

identifiable symbol within the precinct.

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

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:

Infrastructure upgrades to improve

access and functionality, enhancing the

ease of travel for club members and

visitors within the precinct.

Redesign of

the precinct's layout to better serve

community clubs, especially those

situated along the park's western

boundary, fostering integration and

collaboration.

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:

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.

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.

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.

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:

To

accommodate a variety of sports and

meet the rising demand for participation,

with a special focus on creating

opportunities for female participation.

To

provide a central hub for local sports

events and activities.

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:

Varied and

interactive environments where people

of all ages can engage in imaginative and

physical play, complementing the park's

natural landscapes.

A dedicated zone designed

for skaters of all skill levels, incorporating

various elements for both street and

transition style skateboarding.

Multi-use game areas

marked for sports like basketball and

netball, serving as a social hub for friendly

competition and community-building

activities.

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:

A network

of cycling trails branching out from the

Cycling Precinct to various parts of the

park, ensuring seamless connectivity for

cyclists.

Challenging

trails capitalising on the park's natural

terrain, aimed at attracting both local and

regional mountain biking enthusiasts.

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.

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:

A versatile

venue capable of hosting major events,

serving as a home for professional

sports, concerts, conferences as well as

regional and community events.

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.

Innovative

design incorporating green roofs and

walls to support biodiversity and meld

the stadium's presence into the natural

landscape of the park.

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.

28 Transforming Brimbank

Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan 2024 29

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Attachment 12.13.1

0 50 100 200m

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:

An

efficient site stormwater management

system can effectively shed runoff from

the cap and minise the amount rainwater

percolates through to the waste mass.

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.

A

revitalisation initiative that transforms

the area into thriving wetlands,

enhancing biodiversity and creating a

climate-resilient ecosystem.

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.

30 Transforming Brimbank

Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan 2024 31

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.

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

32 Transforming Brimbank

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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

34 Transforming Brimbank

Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan 2024 35

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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

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

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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:

– solar park or open

recreational parkland with no buildings or

underground confined spaces

– formal sports

fields/sports facilities with limited

enclosed structures or underground

confined spaces, such as clubrooms and a

small grandstand

– 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

Brimbank Council Meeting No. 633 21 May 2024

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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

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%

48 Transforming Brimbank

Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan 2024 49

COMMUNITY AND STAKEHOLDERS

Brimbank Council Meeting No. 633 21 May 2024

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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

Tranforming

Brimbank Program

Brimbank City

Council Council Plan

Sunshine Priority

Precinct Vision 2050

Brimbank City Council

Strategies & Policies

Principles

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

Brimbank Council Meeting No. 633 21 May 2024

41 of 144

Attachment 12.13.1

Brimbank City Council

14 May 2024

Brimbank Council Meeting No. 633 21 May 2024

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Attachment 12.13.2

Sunshine Energy Park - Settlement Monitoring

Vision Plan Review | Sunshine Energy Park

12613973

12613973_REP000_Sunshine_Energy_Park-Vision_Plan_Review.docx

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

Contact: Dilshan Hewawasamge, Geotechnical Engineer | GHD

180 Lonsdale Street, Level 9

Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia

+61 3 8687 8000 |

+61 3 8732 7046 |

melmail@ghd.com |

[Compliance statement]

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

1.1 Background

1

1.2 Purpose

3

1.3 Scope of work

3

1.4 Limitations

4

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

3.1 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

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

6.1 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

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 1

Site and surrounding zoning

6

Figure 2

Site plan

7

Appendix A Figures

Appendix B Revised Draft Vision Plan

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Attachment 12.13.2

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

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

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.

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

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Attachment 12.13.2

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

(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.

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Attachment 12.13.2

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.

3.1.1 Subsurface landfill gas monitoring

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).

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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,

– Final cap, a mean of 100 ppm with no individual result exceeding 200 ppm

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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Attachment 12.13.2

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.

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.

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

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:

–

— solar park or open recreational parkland with no buildings or deep human inhabited

underground confined spaces.

–

— formal sports fields/sports facilities with limited enclosed structures or

underground confined spaces (basement structures), such as clubrooms and a small grandstand.

–

— 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.

– 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.

– 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.

– 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

| Report for Brimbank City Council - Sunshine Energy Park, 3136382 | 23

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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].

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’.

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 des