Woodgate Management Plan.indd - Bundaberg Regional Council

isis shire council 

woodgate 

foreshore reserve 

issue 2 march 2005 

management plan

WOODGATE FORESHORE MANAGEMENT PLAN 

CONTENTS 

1 INTRODUCTION 1 

2 COMMUNITY CONSULTATION 3 

3 VALUES AND MANAGEMENT CHALLENGES 5 

4 MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES 11 

5 IMPLEMENTING THE MANAGEMENT PLAN 27 

APPENDIX 

SUMMARY OF COMMUNITY CONSULTATION


1 INTRODUCTION 

The town of Woodgate Beach is located along 4km of the Hervey Bay foreshore (Figure 1). The 

Isis Shire Council owned reserve between the beach and the main street (The Esplanade) is 

extremely important to the local community and to visitors to the town for its recreational, visual 

and ecological values. 

While some significant capital works have been undertaken within the reserve in recent years, there 

has not been an overall framework produced within which improvements and management can be 

undertaken. This factor along with the increasing pressures on the reserve, through growth in local 

population and holiday visitation, has given rise to Council identifying the need for a Management 

Plan to guide the management of the reserve into the future. Council commissioned EDAW 

Gillespies in September 2004 to prepare the Management Plan. 

The Management Plan has the following objectives: 

• To identify clear objectives for the management of the foreshore that reflect the needs of the 

community, visitors and the environment; 

• To effectively communicate the management objectives to the community; 

• To identify ongoing management and maintenance measures to be undertaken to ensure the 

values of the foreshore are maintained; 

• To identify future capital works requirements; 

• To identify more detailed investigations that may need to be carried out; 

• To establish priorities for capital works and for management and maintenance activities, 

enabling efficient inclusion into Council’s budgeting process. 

1


Theodolite Creek 

Esplanade 

Woodgate Road 

Acacia Street 

BURRUM COAST NATIONAL PARK 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Figure 1 

Woodgate Location and Study Area 

2


2 COMMUNITY CONSULTATION 

A public meeting was held at Woodgate Community Hall on 7 October 2004. All property owners 

in Woodgate were notified of the meeting by mail. Ninety five people attended the public meeting, 

which was conducted in a workshop format with attendees forming into groups of approximately 

ten people. The groups were asked to identify the issues of concern to them related to the 

foreshore and to prioritise the importance of those issues. They were also asked to describe in one 

word, what they wanted the Woodgate foreshore to be. 

A written survey form was also mailed to property owners in Woodgate asking primarily for issues 

of concern. Seventy five responses were received. 

A summary of the issues is described below under the broad categories identified by the 

community. Reports of the community consultation activities is included in Appendix A. 

Environmental management (vegetation, wildlife, dune stability) 

• Need for signs warning motorists of wildlife. 

• Bird and turtle habitat in the vicinity of Theodolite Creek. 

• Weed control, particularly Mother of Millions. 

• Previously planted Wattles are not native to the area. 

• Need for trimming of Cottonwoods. 

• Need for more planting. 

• Adequate ground cover under sheoaks and other canopy trees. 

• Loss of habitat for lorikeets (ti trees) 

• Need to protect fish breeding areas 

• Need to keep dogs out of environmentally sensitive areas. 

• Appropriate choice of species for stabilisation of dunes. 

• Erosion of beach/dunes during king tides. 

• Large amounts of dead timber in bush along Theodolite Road. 

Recreation Facilities and Activities 

• Boat ramp is difficult and dangerous to use much of the time. 

• Second avenue recreation facilities need upgrading and get overcrowded. 

• Reserve opposite Second Avenue, shop and caravan park are all intensively used areas. 

• Some low lighting needed for pathway. 

• More barbeques needed. 

• More toilets and showers needed. 

3


• Trail bike damage 

• Jet ski use needs control. 

• Illegal camping occurring. 

• Need to rationalise/improve beach access for pedestrians. 

• Improved wheelchair access to facilities needed. 

Vehicle Access and Parking 

• Need to restrict vehicle access in high habitat value areas. 

• Ad hoc parking occurs in the reserve. 

• More parking needed generally, and at specific locations such as the shop. 

• Better quality car parking needed i.e. paved surfaces. 

• Indiscriminate trailer parking occurs near Fourth Avenue. 

• Ad hoc entry of tractors launching boats. 

• 4 wheel drive access dangerous due to sharing with pedestrians. 

Aesthetics and Amenity 

• Littering at various locations. 

• More rubbish bins needed near picnic tables. 

Safety 

• Traffic speeding on Esplanade. 

• Swimming safety. 

4


3 VALUES AND MANAGEMENT CHALLENGES 

GENERAL 

It is important to clearly recognise what the values of the Woodgate Beach Foreshore Reserve are 

to the local community and to visitors. Each of the main values of the reserve are discussed below 

along with a general description of the management challenges associated with each value. The 

management objectives and specific strategies described later in this document are structured 

according to each of these values. 

RECREATIONAL 

The beach at Woodgate is the most popular feature of the town to both residents and visitors. 

The beach reserve provides an opportunity for people to picnic, walk and cycle while enjoying the 

presence of the beach and the ocean. The reserve also fulfills the function of providing access to 

the beach. 

The recent construction of the foreshore pathway has provided a significant means of enjoying 

the foreshore, with a continuous paved link enabling people to easily move along the length of the 

foreshore reserve. Barbeques and picnic facilities at various points along the reserve are regularly 

used and provide the other main form of recreational activity. 

Future management of the reserve will require the consideration of whether there are enough 

recreation facilities provided, whether the right mix of facilities is provided, whether the quality of 

facilities will be adequate and whether they are located in the right place. Current challenges are 

presented by concentration of people and parked cars in locations with limited capacity, such as 

adjacent to Second Avenue, opposite the shop and opposite the caravan park. The quality and 

condition of some facilities may require examination, while the need for additional facilities in other 

parts of the foreshore reserve will need to be considered. 

ECOLOGICAL 

The foreshore reserve is within a semi-natural setting with vegetation that is predominantly native 

to the area, but that has been subject to human disturbance associated with the use of the reserve 

as a recreational space. The reserve has a major recreational role and there are extensive areas 

of undisturbed dune communities in the adjacent Burrum Coast National Park. The ecological 

values of the reserve therefore need to be maintained and enhanced where possible, without 

compromising its recreational role. 

There are some parts of the reserve (such as either side of Theodolite Creek Road) that currently 

comprise predominantly natural vegetation communities and are subject to minimal recreational 

5


use. The area west of Theodolite Creek Road is a significant estuarine wetland, mostly mangrove 

and saltmarsh communities, that is integral to local fisheries and the broader ecology of Theodolite 

Creek. Future recreational opportunities in these areas versus consideration of their ecological 

values will be need to be managed. 

There is anecdotal evidence that the large expanse of sand at the northern end of Woodgate 

Beach provides important habitat for resident and possibly migratory wader birds. This area is also 

a leash-free area for dogs. As dogs that are off-leash can cause significant disturbance to waders, 

future bird surveys will be required to confirm the most appropriate location of the dog leash-free 

area. 

Considerations in the ecological management of the reserve include the control of weeds, the 

planting of trees and understorey species, and the control of pedestrians and vehicles to minimise 

damage to vegetation. 

EROSION PROTECTION 

Major erosion from storm events and large tides will occur from time to time irrespective of 

what management measures are put in place. History suggests that this is part of a cyclical 

phenomenon and over the long term the beach and dunes are relatively stable. For this long term 

stability to be maintained and for the beach and the town to be protected, the structural integrity of 

the dune system must be maintained. 

Management will focus on avoidance of direct physical disturbance and the loss of stabilising 

dune vegetation. Where disturbance has previously occurred, rehabilitation of dune areas may be 

necessary. 

VISUAL 

Whether viewed from the town or as a backdrop to the beach, the foreshore reserve and 

particularly the line of Casuarinas provide the defining visual image of Woodgate. 

The filtered views of the ocean through the reserve vegetation and the band of green that is 

created by the reserve when looking along the Esplanade are important visual characteristics. 

These require preservation and in certain cases, enhancement. 

Other important visual management considerations include maintenance of the natural ambience, 

the design of recreational facilities and (common with values discussed above) the avoidance and 

rehabilitation of damage to dune vegetation. 

6


BEACH ACCESS 

Pedestrians, 4 wheel drive vehicles and boat launching vehicles all require access to certain parts 

of the beach thus the need for access through the reserve. This role of access fulfilled by the 

reserve creates potential conflicts with other values, with excessive and indiscriminate pedestrian 

or vehicular traffic causing direct physical damage to the dunes or damage to vegetation. There 

are also potential conflicts between the different user groups requiring access, with the sharing of 

vehicular and pedestrian access creating a safety risk. 

Photographs illustrating the challenges faced in the management of the reserve are shown on the 

following pages. 

7


PHOTOGRAPHS OF THE RESERVE 

captions for photographs are on the following page 

1 

9 

17 

2 

10 

18 

3 11 19 

4 

12 

20 

5 

13 

21 

1 

6 

14 

22 

7 

15 

23 

8 

16 

24 

8


PHOTOGRAPHS OF THE RESERVE 

captions for the photographs on the previous page 

1 Theodolite Creek features extensive open sand flats and areas of erosion requiring attention. 

2 Uncontrolled vehicle and boat trailer access to Theodolite Creek is possible across the 

dunes; some evidence of degradation is apparent. 

3 Existing low-key facilities will require replacement, selected from a unique suite of structures 

and park furniture. 

4 Dunal system in the north of the study area is relatively stable and in good environmental 

condition. 

5 An existing perched lagoon is an interesting natural feature in the dunal system north of the 

boat ramp. Pedestrian access may be considered. 

6 Fallen trees and limbs cause a degree of visual concern to some residents. 

7 Wetland areas to the west of Theodolite Creek Rd are part of the fish breeding habitat and 

require protection. 

8 This is the only formed boat ramp in this section of the study area; it has poor traction and is 

reported as being unsuitable for use in some conditions. 

9 A pedestrian walkway in the dunes along the entire esplanade provides a substantial 

recreation opportunity for residents and visitors. 

10 Existing standard and regulatory signage conveys important information to beach users, 

but a more less harsh and more interesting style of signage could be incorporated to help 

identify Woodgate as a unique setting. 

11 Parking in uncontrolled roadside locations may ultimately degrade the parkland on the edge 

of the road corridor. Protective measures may be required in the long term. 

12 The town is renowned for its relaxed beach activities and laid back lifestyle. Measures are 

required to protect this character, while allowing for increased usage to occur. 

13 Existing furniture attracts picnickers to the walkway along the dune. Additional furniture could 

be incorporated to increase opportunities for users of the reserve. 

14 The Esplanade is a long linear corridor which could be enhanced with additional landscape 

treatment and speed control measures. 

15 Side streets connecting to the Esplanade are important corridors for access to the beach. 

Pedestrian amenity needs consideration. 

16 Trees such as cottonwoods need to exhibit canopies which are elevated above pedestrian 

sightlines to ensure safety is paramount. 

17 Some sections of the dune need concentrated effort to remove weed infiltration. 

18 Uncontrolled and unprotected prolonged pedestrian access from the road to the beach has 

created erosion of the dune and vegetation loss in some areas. Suitable action is required to 

reduce this occurrence and rehabilitate existing damage. 

19 Simple barriers such as these logs help to prevent damage as shown above. Their usage 

does not need to be continuous along the entire dune. 

20 Casuarinas are a dominant species along the coast line and set a particular character worthy 

of retention. 

21 An existing vehicle access track should be relocated to a safer section of the beach, and the 

area rehabilitated. 

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22 Similar to image 18, uncontrolled access needs to be managed in some locations to prevent 

long term damage to the dunes. 

23 Picnic and playground facilities are an inviting recreation opportunity at Banksia Park in the 

south of the study area, and could be further enhanced with additional shade trees, seating 

and informal passive play activity areas. 

24 A regrowth forest in the southern part of the reserve dominated by Acacia spp. would benefit 

from periodic thinning of the existing trees and replacement with a range of endemic dune 

species such as Banksia sp. and Casuarina sp. 

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4 MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES 

Management strategies for the Woodgate Foreshore Reserves are listed on the following pages. 

They are based on a series of objectives, which in turn are categorised according to the values 

discussed in the previous section. The management objectives are as follows: 

Recreation 

Provide quality recreation facilities that reflect the coastal village setting and do not adversely 

impact on the environment or on visual amenity. 

Ecological 

Maintain the ecological values of the foreshore reserve area and restore where appropriate. 

Erosion Protection 

Maintain the long term stability of the coastal dune system, while acknowledging that short term 

and seasonal fluctuations in erosion patterns occur. 

Visual 

Maintain the visual character of the foreshore reserves and improve areas where the visual amenity 

has been diminished. 

Beach Access 

Maintain convenient access to the beach while managing the impacts of increasing numbers of 

beach users on dune vegetation and stability. 

A broad overview of the principles associated with the management strategies are shown in 

Figures 2 to 5, while preliminary concepts for some specific areas needing to be upgraded are 

included in Figures 6-11. These concepts are intended to indicate the style of facilities and layout 

that would be appropriate in the reserve. They are not based on survey information and more 

development of these designs and further community consultation will be necessary before they 

can be budgeted and constructed. 

11


RECREATION 

Objective 

Provide quality recreation facilities 

that reflect the coastal village setting 

and do not adversely impact on the 

environment or on visual amenity. 

Strategy 

Establish new small scale picnic and barbeque facility at the First 

Avenue boat ramp. 

Establish new picnic and barbecue facility opposite the general store 

near Third Avenue. 

Establish new picnic facility (no barbecue) opposite First National Real 

Estate (between Second and Third Avenue) (see detail). 

Upgrade picnic areas at Theodolite Creek, Second Avenue, Fifth 

Avenue, opposite the caravan park, and Eleventh Avenue. 

Maintain existing facilities in the community centre park and Banksia 

Park. 

Manage car parking at all picnic/barbecue areas. 

Develop and maintain regular cycle/pedestrian links to the western area 

of town, including linkage to the new development at First Avenue. 

Maintain current dog leash free areas, pending ongoing consultation 

with the Environmental Protection Agency regarding any impacts on 

migratory birds. 

Ensure grass cover is maintained around picnic/barbecue areas. 

Conduct formal regular inspections of recreation facilities; undertake 

repair works where necessary. 

Clean barbecues and associated facilities as needed to meet health and 

safety requirements and community expectations. 

Provide isolated picnic tables and chairs where adjacent parking (1-2 

spaces) can be provided. 

Ensure that the Esplanade path is maintained in good condition. 

Maintain the track from Theodolite Creek picnic area to the beach. 

12


ECOLOGICAL 

Objective 

Maintain the ecological values of the 

foreshore reserve area and restore 

where appropriate. 

Strategy 

Establish the northern part of the reserve area as a natural area under 

Council control and management. 

Prohibit vehicular access beyond Theodolite Creek Road (other than 

emergency vehicles) into the natural area. 

Restrict recreational facilities in the natural area to walking trails 

including boardwalks, except for the Theodolite Creek picnic area. 

Provide two beach access tracks with car parks along Theodolite Creek 

Road (approximately 5 car spaces per location). 

Ensure future development approval avoids impacts of adjacent 

development on the natural area, especially on the estuarine wetland 

area west of Theodolite Creek Road. 

Prepare an Environmental Management Plan for the natural area reserve, 

identifying specific rehabilitation measures, a fire management regime, 

water quality management and wildlife habitat management, particularly 

fish and migratory bird habitat. 

Establish ongoing and regular consultation with the Environmental 

Protection Agency regarding management of the natural area reserve. 

Ensure future planting in the recreation reserve is predominantly 

species endemic to the area. Some introduced feature trees (such as 

Norfolk Island Pines) may be appropriate in some locations. 

Establish a coordinated weed removal program within the recreation 

reserve. 

Encourage and support community involvement in weed removal (eg 

Weedbusters). 

Maintain natural frontal dune vegetation in the recreation reserve in a 

relatively natural state. 

13


EROSION PROTECTION 

Objective 

Maintain the long term stability of 

the coastal dune system, while 

acknowledging that short term and 

seasonal fluctuations in erosion 

patterns occur. 

Strategy 

Monitor condition of the dunes and stabilise beach access points in any 

locations where intensive use is causing lowering of the dune. 

Monitor sand levels/erosion patterns on the beach in consultation with 

the Environmental Protection Agency. 

Monitor impacts of climate change on the longer term stability of the 

dune system. 

Revegetate and rehabilitate areas of the dunes if blowouts cause 

significant vegetation loss. 

Develop a response plan in consultation with the Environmental 

Protection Agency to be implemented in the event of major sand loss 

during a storm event. 

Avoid the construction of structures (such as picnic shelters) on the 

ocean side of the foreshore path. 

14


VISUAL 

Objective 

Maintain the visual character of the 

foreshore reserves and improve areas 

where the visual amenity has been 

diminished. 

Strategy 

Develop a consistent palette of native plants, of predominantly endemic 

species, for future landscape works. 

Develop a consistent and unique palette of materials and colours for 

structures and furniture appropriate to the character of the town. 

Inspect and maintain landscaped areas on a regular basis. 

Maintain filtered views to the ocean from the Esplanade. 

Replace trees (particularly Casuarinas) as they die or develop 

significant numbers of dead branches. 

Remove dead wood and fallen branches from trees that are otherwise 

healthy. 

Improve the amenity of the planted vegetation groupings along the 

Esplanade. Prune and tidy the lower branches of Cottonwoods. 

Undertake weed management in accordance with the strategies listed 

under the ecological objectives. 

Define and establish a parkland character (trees and maintained grass) 

west of the pathway in the reserve area south of Banksia Park. 

Undertake progressive replacement of Acacia spp. with Banksia, 

Leptospermum, Eucalyptus and Casuarina species in the reserve area 

south of Banksia Park. 

Ensure adequate garbage bins are provided and bin emptying and litter 

patrols respond to usage, particularly at peak holiday needs. 

15


BEACH ACCESS 

Objective 

Maintain convenient access to the 

beach while managing the impacts of 

increasing numbers of beach users on 

dune vegetation and stability. 

Strategy 

Establish Acacia Street as the primary access road to beach, recreation 

areas and southern parts of the town i.e. reduce usage of the Esplanade 

as the thoroughfare for north-south traffic, and introduce speed control 

measures on the Esplanade. 

Allow existing patterns of informal beach access on the proviso that 

ongoing monitoring is not revealing progressive lowering of the dune or 

increasing disturbance to dune vegetation. 

Establish small scale car parks at locations shown on the Management 

Overview figures. 

Encourage overflow parking to occur in side streets. 

Provide for bus and large vehicle parking near the Caravan Park and 

near Banksia Park (when 4 wheel drive beach access is relocated). 

Provide two formal beach access points within the natural area. 

Liaise with Department of Transport to investigate possible 

improvements to the functionality and safety of the First Avenue Boat 

Ramp. At a minimum, improve the traction of the ramp’s surface. 

Relocate the four wheel drive access point from opposite Banksia Park 

to the southern boundary of the reserve. 

Allow current pattern of tractor access for boat launching on the proviso 

that conflicts with road and beach users does not develop. 

Reduce the scale of and rehabilitate the existing 4 wheel drive access 

point; retain as pedestrian access only 

Foster improved pedestrian amenity and access from residential 

precincts beyond the Esplanade and at cross streets. 

Provide disabled parking bays at selected locations and opportunities 

for access to picnic facilities, the walkway and the foreshore. 

16



Theodolite Creek Picnic Area 

(Upgrade layout and facilities. 

Manage traffic and car parking.) 

maintain existing 

track to beach from 

picnic area 

Key Map 

Natural Area 

Under Council control. Manage to conserve 

estuarine and dune ecosystems 

P 

track to beach with 

roadside car parking 

prohibit vehicular access to wetland 

dog leash free area 

(maintain but monitor impacts on 

wader birds) 

P 

track to beach with 

roadside car parking 

Theodolite Creek Rd 

Recreation Focus Area 

Beach access track 

P 

Parking 

Foreshore reserve (recreation focus) 

Foreshore reserve (conservation focus) 

Recreation Reserve 

(managed for 

beach related recreation) 

Figure 2 

Management Overview Area A 

17


Key Map 

Conservation Reserve 

manage to conserve estuarine 

and dune ecosystems 

Theodolite Creek Rd 

Recreation Reserve 

(manage for 

beach related recreation) 

Boat Ramp 

(add facilities, upgrade useability, 

manage parking) 

P 

First Avenue 

Encourage First Avenue 

pedestrian/cycle link 

Woodgate Road 

Esplanade 

Introduce speed restriction devices or 

techniques along Esplanande. Use 

widened corridor in this area to 

advantage for this. 

Existing pedestrian/cycle link 

Establish Acacia St as main access road to 

the reserve and the southern parts of town 

Second Avenue Picnic Area 

(upgrade facilities - see detail) 

Second Avenue 

P 

Parking area opposite First National 


Acacia Street 

P 


Third Avenue 

P 

Parking 

P 



General store area 

(upgrade facilities) 

 

Figure 3 

Management Overview Area B 

18


Key Map 

Fourth Avenue 

Introduce speed restriction devices or 

techniques along Esplanande. 

Esplanade 

Fifth Avenue 

P 

Fifth Avenue Picnic Area 


Acacia Street 

P 

Caravan Park Area 


Sixth Avenue 



Seventh Avenue 

P 

P 

Parking 



Community Centre Picnic Area 

(maintain existing facilities) 


Figure 4 

Management Overview Area C 

19


Key Map 

Ninth Avenue 

Introduce speed restriction devices 

or techniques along Esplanande. 

Acacia Street 

Tenth Avenue 

Eleventh Avenue Picnic Area 


P 

Eleventh Avenue 

P 

Twelfth Avenue 

P 

Existing 4WD access to be relocated 

to the south. Reconstruct as 

necessary to improve car park, and 

allow disabled access to the beach 

and to amenities building in park. 

P 

Banksia Park 

(maintain existing facilities) 

Establish parkland setting west of 

pathway 

P 


Relocated 4WD access 

P 

Parking 



Figure 5 

Management Overview Area D 

20


board and chain walkway; modify 

the typical EPA style to create a 

more comfortable access 

short length of post and wire fence 

beach access sign 

bench seat under shade of tree 

cycle speed control point 

and bollards 

The existing pattern of informal beach access is not proposed to be greatly altered in the short 

term. At heavily used locations and access points susceptible to vegetation damage or dune 

erosion, controlled beach access may however be implemented. The condition of the dunes wil 

be monitored and if increased use of particular access points begins to cause damage to the 

dunes, controlled access would then be implemented. The intention is to manage pedestrian 

access, enhance landscape planting and to provide limited fencing (e.g. 10-15m either side of 

the path) to direct beach users towards the access. Board and chain walkways may be necessary 

on more heavily used access points. A simple low key signage system on the esplanade side of 

the path will assist navigation and legibility of this long open space reserve. Pedestrian links to the 

landward parts of the town should meet the Esplanade path close to beach access points. 

Figure 6 

Typical Controlled Beach Access Point: Concept 

21


replacement picnic shelters; 

designed to allow view to 

foreshore from esplanade 

additional shade trees 

along path 

future replacement unisex 

amenities block with large size 

cubicles; outdoor showers 

retain open lawns 

as community node 

disabled access parking bay; 

path access required 

retain three beach access points only; 

rehabilitate and revegetate additional 

existing tracks across dune 

View to sea 

access to 

bikeway 

pines as feature trees 

adjacent road 

sealed carparking bays; 

flush pavement; 

new shelters in 

extended picnic area 

carparking and shelters at 

southern end, if demand requires; 

grass paving to parking bays 

It is expected that the Second Avenue picnic area will remain the most heavily used part of the 

reserve, even as Acacia Street becomes the more heavily used access route. The current facilities 

do not meet user need either in terms of amount of facilities or quality. Particular problems 

include the location of the existing amenities building in the sight line from Second Avenue, lack of 

controlled car parking, and existence of poorer quality and visually obtrusive picnic shelters. 

It is proposed to eventually replace all major facilities in the Second Avenue picnic area as well as 

expand the area to the south (and slightly to the north) to be able to accommodate more people 

if demand warrants. Controlled car parking will cater for an increased number of cars, while three 

controlled beach access points will be defined. Three to four new barbecues will be provided, 

though the number of shelters, tables, barbeques and parking bays can be progressively 

increased as demand requires. 

The amenities block is proposed to be removed and a new facility built in a similar location, but 

as two smaller structures. Approval of the Environmental Protection Agency will probably be 

necessary to undertake this, given the proximity to the frontal dunes. 

The extent of the proposed upgrade of this picnic area suggests that it will be needed to be 

carried out progressively. A possible sequence of development would be: 

• Development of controlled car park area and beach accesses 

• Replacement of existing picnic shelters 

• Expansion of picnic area (if demand requires) 

• New amenities block. 

Figure 7 

Second Avenue Picnic Area: Concept 

22


controlled beach access 

existing fence 

short length of fence each 

side of walkway 

new picnic shelters 

bollards to define parking areas 

pedestrian crossing if retail expands 

and demand requires 

grass paver treatment to 

parking areas 

The area of the reserve opposite the First National Real Estate currently consists of an unsealed 

road loop around a single prominent Norfolk Island Pine. The lack of vegetation and informal car 

parking on the reserve contribute to this area’s poor visual quality and amenity. 

Controlled car parking and reestablishing a grass cover will enhance the visual amenity here. It is 

proposed to provide eight to ten car parking spaces to take advantage of the existing open space. 

A new shelter will provide additional picnic facilities to take advantage of the improved landscape 

and functionality. 

Defined pedestrian circulation is proposed in the vicinity of this facility. 

Figure 8 

Picnic Area Opposite First National Real Estate: Concept 

23


board and chain beach access 

short length of post and wire 

fence each side of walkway 

beach access sign 

new shelters; 

open style of architecture 

to allow views to the beach 

grass paver treatment to 

parking areas 

low growing street trees 

The Fifth Avenue picnic area is a relatively small recreation area that is currently poorly served 

by an older style of shelter. Car parking occurs randomly on the reserve, which has resulted in 

degradation of the grass surface. 

It is proposed to retain the low key nature of this picnic area given the proximity of houses on the 

opposite side of The Esplanade. The shelter is proposed to be replaced with 1-2 small structures 

that are consistent in design and materials to other new shelters that will be built in the reserve. 

A controlled beach access point and small car park will be established to manage vehicular and 

pedestrian access. Street tree planting on both sides of the Esplanade will enhance the landscape 

and provide screening of the picnic area from adjacent houses. Street tree selection will need to 

consider the power lines on the western side of the Esplanade. 

Figure 9 

Fifth Avenue Picnic Area: Concept 

24


new picnic shelters and 

shade pergolas 

new shelters 

new unisex amenities block 

and outdoor showers 

retain existing beach accesses; 

install modified board and chain 

walkways if erosion occurs 

emergency vehicle access 

to beach 

new BBQ shelter 

The area of reserve opposite the caravan park is currently a high use area but with few facilities. 

The lack of houses opposite and the open nature of the reserve in this location provides an 

opportunity to establish a significant picnic and barbecue area. 

The new facilities would include several shelters, an amenities block with outside showers, 

two controlled beach access points and car parking for 8-10 cars (on the reserve side of The 

Esplanade). The landscape in front of the caravan park would also be improved, with excessive 

pavement area being returned to grass where appropriate and the entrance car park being 

formalised and planting improved. 

A reduction in the number of parking spaces is not anticipated. 

Figure 10 

Caravan Park Area: Concept 

25


retain as formal access, install 

disabled access ramp 

rehabilitate eroded dune; 

prevent runoff problem continuing 

long term replacement 

of shelter/barbecue 

recommended 

new planting 

max 1:20 ramp 

controlled car parking; 

with disabled accessible bay 

bollard barrier 

The picnic and barbecue area near the corner of Eleventh Avenue currently includes a basic 

shelter with tables and barbecue. The area is currently degraded by the informal parking of cars 

on the reserve. 

The current shelter is in reasonable condition and it is feasible to retain this in the short to medium 

term. Ultimate replacement to be consistent with other higher standard shelters in the reserve will 

however be desirable in several years time. A new controlled parking area is proposed along with 

an adjacent beach access point. Rehabilitation of the eroded dune is recommended with actions 

taken to prevent pedestrian activity and stormwater runoff damage from occurring. Improved 

landscape treatments including additional planting and a path around an existing significant tree 

connecting the shelter with the car park will further enhance the amenity of this area.This path 

would be designed for disabled person access from carpark to beach. 

Figure 11 

Eleventh Avenue Picnic Area: Concept 

26


5 IMPLEMENTING THE MANAGEMENT PLAN 

The management plan includes actions and strategies that are intended to be implemented over 

a period of ten to twenty years. The timing of the implementation of specific measures will depend 

on Council and community priorities; the demand placed on facilities by residents and visitors; and 

the amount of funds available in Council budgets. 

It should be noted that detailed design will be necessary before new facilities or upgrades of 

facilities such as picnic areas and car parks can be constructed. The design concepts for specific 

areas presented in this management plan are indicative. Some facilities may not be constructed or 

upgraded for a number of years and specific requirements at the time of construction may require 

changes to these concepts. 

Some measures are however recommended as a minimum for the 2005/2006 financial year, 

either because of their urgent need, or because they need to be undertaken before subsequent 

strategies are implemented. These include: 

• the relocation of the four wheel drive access adjacent to Banksia Park; 

• liaison with the Department of Transport on a course of action regarding improving the 

surface of the First Avenue Boat Ramp, and if possible the implementation of this course of 

action; 

• the commencement of a program of removal of unsightly or dead trees and branches; 

• the preparation and initial implementation of a weed management strategy; and 

• the preparation and initial implementation of a revegetation strategy. 

27


APPENDIX 

SUMMARY OF COMMUNITY CONSULTATION

Version 1 

Woodgate Coastal Management Plan Community Consultation Meeting 

ISIS SHIRE COUNCIL 

WOODGATE COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 

COMMUNITY CONSULTATION 

MEETING SUMMARY 

Prepared on 22 October 2004 

VERSION 1 

Prepared by: 

Rod Ainsworth 

Business, Cultural and Community Consultant 

PO Box 2372 

Bundaberg QLD 4670 

Phone: 07 4154 4174 

Mobile: 0409 595 704 

Email: mail@rodainsworth.biz 

Prepared by Rod Ainsworth for Isis Shire Council, October 2004 

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SUMMARY PAPER 

OVERVIEW 

A community consultation meeting was held on Thursday, 7 October 2004 for the purpose of engaging with 

residents and ratepayers on issues pertaining to the management of the Woodgate coast or foreshore in the 

development of a Coastal Management Plan by Council and EDAW Gillespie. 

The meeting ran for two hours from 7.00 to 9.00pm at the Woodgate Community Hall. The agenda for this 

meeting is attached in Appendix One. 

The format of the meeting was designed to glean as much information as possible in the short space of time 

and was, as such, structured into group discussions. 

Each group was given a copy of four maps which outlined the majority of the area in question for the Coastal 

Management Plan. Groups were asked to: 

a) List issues relating to the human use of the area 

b) List issues of environmental significance 

Issues raised are listed below in accordance with the maps as provided by Isis Shire Council. These issues 

are listed verbatim. 

Participants were then invited to analyse the issues that had been listed on all four maps and were requested 

to list these in order of priority. Residents’ and ratepayers’ priorities are listed below in order of the priorities 

assigned by groups. 

Finally, participants were asked to record one word that described the Woodgate of the future for them. 

Responses to this are also listed below. 

A contact list was also collected at the meeting and is supplied to Council in a separate document. 


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COMMUNITY RESPONSES 

ISSUES FROM MAP 1 

• Restrict vehicle access in habitat area 

• Remove vegetation area to Theodolite Ck 

• Signs for birds, echidnas, monitors, wallabies, etc 

• Environmentally significant areas to Theodolite Ck – bird nests, turtle nests 

• Weeds, including garden species, invading dunes and reserves, exacerbated by previous dumping of 

green waste 

• Keep natural areas and preserve bio-diversity 

• Pro-active – remove non-native species or other weeds 

• Keep dogs to environmentally insensitive areas (ie. Where people/houses are) 

• Need for parking information in designated places 

• No cement and tile jobs please 

• Boardwalks to be put in Acacia Street to save environment so people can enjoy 

• Be jet-ski free on Main Beach 

• Swimming in lovely warm clear water 

• Picnicking and BBQs 

• Walking, biking, jogging, skate boarding on pathway on Esplanade 

• Deterioration of fish breeding grounds 

• Traffic ignoring speed signs 

• Build up sands at boat ramp 

• Up to 32 boat trailers in season – need amenities here 

• Buoy has been removed from artificial reef 

• BBQ amenities need updating off Second Avenue esp. disabled facilities 

• Mosquitoes/sandflies, potential disease, “stinks” 

• Road side rubbish unattractive at entrance to town 

• Noise 

• Alcohol induced misbehaviour outside pub 

• Not all weather boat ramp, difficult in low tide/wash 

• Fish debris 

• Exotic weeds need eradicating all along the front 

• Speed an issue after Esplanade corner 

• Road width 

• Problem of driving on foreshore 

• Drainage in wet season on Acacia Street and tidal effects 

• Better directional signs needed at intersection of Second Avenue 

• High populous area 

• Littering on board walk 

• Boat ramp – dangerous, slippery, not all weather, need rock wall or jetty 

• Path good, lighting low and not bothering residents 

• More parking in southern ends 

• More BBQs 

• Regular pathways to beach 

• End of Theodolite Road has pieces of dead timber between road and dunes, can this be removed 

• Pile of dead timber to be removed from beach (snakes) 

• Sealed area BBQ 


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• Cottonwoods introduced trees should be trimmed to a single trunk and not allowed to smother 

• Vinca, mother of millions, Singapore daisy, corky vine, siratro to be removed 

• Trim casurina branches 

• Thin out trees to let wind take sand through 

• No fence 

• Boat access 

• Boat trailers park on dunes beach side Fourth Avenue 

• Opposite general store people congregate 

• Boat access from Third Avenue 

• Boat access Fourth Avenue 

• Isolated tables, people park as close as possible 

• People congregate on beach outside caravan park 

• Designated access points for pedestrians 

• Revegetation of bare areas possibly close them off for regeneration 

• Replanting of grasses and native trees 

• Clearing of dead trees and branches 

• Limited tractor access 

• Keep caravans on Acacia 

• Wallum well looked after 

• Action of 4WDs on dunes and beach 

• ad hoc entry of tractors and boats 

• sand movement reducing beach ? do we need groynes built 

• swimming/fishing safety 

• under-planting foreshore 

• removal dead wood 

• shoreline appointments 

• PO and shop peak periods especially mail times, traffic/parking/pedestrians and rubbish 

• Ends of avenues people access points to beach 

• People accumulate at these points on beach 

• Rubbish bins and tables put there 

• Pedestrian access from back streets not to coincide with end of avenues because of wear 

• Bikeways 

• Danger for children crossing 

• Traffic/parking at food shop in peak periods near caravan park 

• Needs awareness of the large population of kangaroos and to not feed them, using proper signage 

• Kerbs and channelling 

• Need more parking near shop 

• Need toilets across from shop 

• Wheelchair access to table area 

• She-oaks ground cover growth 

• Trees fall into the water in king tide every year 

• Grass important 

• Wattles not native 

• More planting 

• Intensive use of beach outside caravan park 

• Sealed area for parking up from Fifth Avenue 


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• Cars across walkway – bollards required 

• Boat ramps to be kept open 

• Controlled spraying of mother of millions 

• Removal of other noxious weeds 

• Perhaps revegetation with trees to prevent cars accessing pathway 

• Car park hard surface at main BBQ areas 

• Human impact 

• Fragile dunes – cars cause damage occasionally driving onto top dune 

• Happy hour every Friday night 

• Severe trail bike damage (probably by local youth) 

• 1950 no trees south of 10 th Avenue, cattle grazed on dunes. High dunes were built by grass not 

trees. Buffalo and Pangona grass are two introduced grasses that far surpass the natural grass 

for dune development 

• Pangola grass will compete very well with mother of millions 

• South of Forest Ranger’s marker big tides in last few years have washed she-oaks out of dunes 

and massive amounts of dune have washed away once trees move 

• Locals must not be denied access to their beach 

• Fences (designated and regimented access) will spoil the community spirit of woodgate 

• By looking back we learn from previous evolution by nature 

• By looking forward we can overcome any obstacles and retain the pleasing ambience of our local 

seaside, not dis-enhance it 

• Suggest you have a look at some other foreshores ie. Burleigh Heads as an example of how a 

foreshore should be developed and planned 

• Many children with bicycles every school holidays, somewhere needed for this activity 

• Boat ramps so less tractors on beach 

• Pathways well used by locals and visitors 

• Walkways to beach starting to erode/roots and vines exposed 

• Lot of use by caravan park visitors 

• No security in water for children 

• Control/monitor jet-ski usage 

• Loss of habitat – ti-trees for lorikeets 

• Caravan park beach access needs surfacing – high use area 

• Remove cotton wood and replace with oak 

• Potential hazard (traffic/pedestrians) at park 

• Strengthen the framework to create link between NP and foreshore 

• Tractor access between park and Ninth Avenue 

• Strategy for excess deadwood removal needed – fire hazard 

• Houses to Theodolite Ck 

• Consensus of types of trees to be encouraged in growth 

• Self sown plants/weeds to be removed 

• Replanting 

• Structured parking at boat ramp 

• Wheel chair access required at picnic tables 

• Threat of spreading of weeds for national park eg. Mother of millions, wild cotton 


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• Parking at BBQ between Tenth and Eleventh Avenues 

• Sealed car park near park 

• Picnic area off of Eleventh Avenue has litter issues 

• 4wd beach access very dangerous 

• People camping at park area 

• National/Marine Park ? 

• Vehicle traffic on beach in environmentally sensitive area 

• 4WD access hot spot 

• Beach access, fishing, swimming, limited parking. 

• Pathway, cycling 

• New access to beach and boat ramp 

• Dune use off Eleventh Avenue 

• Sand moving north due to wind, weather activity 

• Replant under-story, clear dead she-oaks 

• Banksia path 

• 4WD access to beach 

• All along beach need for groynes to stop sand loss 

• Loss of habitat for wildlife 

• Twelfth Avenue main traffic to Walker’s Point 

• Lorikeets less than there used to be 

• No ti-trees 

• More parking around shelters 

• Toilets and showers 

• Beach access for vehicles – not ideal because of danger to pedestrians and beach users (should be 

south of all houses) 

• Clean up vegetation (overgrown and noxious weeds) 

• No structured parking spaces near beach access and park 

• Keep dog leash free areas 

• Rubbish bins at tables 

• 4WD access point should be moved 

• Improved access to beach – erosion and safety issues 

• What happens south with Burrum River management will impact on Woodgate Beach and in turn 


• Mother of Millions under control 

• Access a problem – going to be moved 

• Ad hoc parking 

• Better views but with shade trees 

• Wattles not good 

• New population 


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PRIORITIES 

PRIORITY 1: 

• Boat ramp safety, because it’s un-useable a lot of the time 

• Safety issue of speed and parking – increase in population will escalate this 

• Issue 

• Fish breeding grounds 

• No fish, no tourists 

• No recreational activity 

• brings dolphins 

• Deterioration of environment 

• Safety factor – to prevent injury to people, boats and protect the environment 

• Encourage people to use them 

• Protect bio-diversity of public areas 

• People come to enjoy a natural setting and to see native animals and birds 

• Pedestrian safety 

• Lots of bikes/beach activities 

• Lots of children/elderly especially at holidays 

• Sand movement (use of groynes) 

• lose the beach (Woodgate is the beach) 

• Lose first row of houses 

• Stop boat trailers parking on dunes 

• speaks for itself 

• Wattles to be gone/grassing of dunes 

• Non-natives not natural, they don’t stabilise views 

• Because two accesses but no parking 

• Improved access to beach – maybe to the south – to protect dunes/safety issue 

• -lack of parking and vision is limited when exiting beach, too close to children’s park and BBQ 

facilities 

• More vehicle access further south away from houses and Banksia Pk for safety reasons 

• Safety to beach users and children around Banksia Park play area 

• Parking to be gazetted and beach entry at Banksia Park 

• Safety esp. children 

• Vehicle access to beach 

• Impact on environment, wildlife, and human 

• Cars across walk way onto dunes (safety issue also), dune protection (bollards), not fencing – protect 

dune line 

• Old enclosure posts on the beach exposed, this is a safety issue and needs attention 

• Safety issues 

• No safety for children – water 

• see sharks close to beach 

• Grass dunes, notice opposite 3 rd Ave grass under she-oaks has survived drought conditions, suggest 

pangola 

• Safety – tress overgrows road, human life values 

• Maintain community identity/activities 

- Tractor access (eg. Boat launching) 

- remember what the original attraction is because people want to maintain historical ambience 

- building restrictions on foreshore 

- Shelters only 

• Parking at 2nd Avenue picnic area – tidy up because it’s muddy and has potholes. It’s used more 

than anywhere else. 

• make disabled friendly 

• not dark 

• better for locals and tourists 


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PRIORITY 2: 

• Dune protection north of boat ramp – landholders encroaching beyond their 

• boundaries. Keep 4WDs off the dunes 

• Upgrade amenities BBQ/toilets/walking 

• (Note – new ones needed near boat ramp) 

• We need this basic information to properly manage the beach environment and allow for changes to the 

beach 

• Parking at shop 

• Toilets across from shop because it’s heavily congested 

• Regulated traffic and parking areas 

• Protection of dunes 

• maximising available space/time 

• To divert through traffic congestion 

• Controlling entry of 4WDs/tractors/boats 

• -destruction of beach 

• Safety of pedestrians 

• need to have boat ramps in zones 

• Parking 

• Needs more organised car parks – very congested with vehicles and children in park 

• Provide parking at picnic areas 

• Random parking is eroding back of fore dune and destroying vegetation/ground cover 

• Trim Casuarina branches 

• To prevent people getting poked in the eye 

• Traffic problems already with speeding cars/trailers/boats a very real danger to children crossing to and 

from beach 

• Spraying of noxious weeds and removal of dead timber on dunes to eradicate noxious species 

• from end houses to creek excess deadwood fire hazard which would also endanger mangrove area 

• Loss of habitat – clear felling by developers 

• No decent boat access to ocean and creek 

• Parking – designated every 2-30 metres with BBQ facilities, orderly fashion of parking (avenues and 

beachfront) 

PRIORITY 3: 

• Pathway access to beach – rationalise 

• Drainage – flooding combined with a higher tide – mosquitoes 

• Traffic speeding 

o ignoring 50 kph 

• Protects the beach environment and safety for citizens on beach front 

• Retention of shade/grass on dunes 

o prevents erosion 

o Attractive for visitors 

o reduces sunburn to people 

• Planting under-story for future of dunes 

• Thing out trees to let wind take sand through to form dunes 

o speaks for itself, note line of beach opposite 4th Avenue where no trees growing 

• More vehicle access 

• No huge car parks please along foreshores 

• Ensure rotational plantings to replace dead and unthrifty trees and to enhance the existing character of 

the foreshore 

• Need by laws officer to prevent parking/litter etc. At present some illegal car traffic along beach 

• Keep boat ramps open onto the beach – without safe access to beach if boat ramps are closed 

• Boat ramp parking and boat access 

o To save the council being sued 

• monitoring/managing jet-skis 

o 

Because trawlers no longer worry us the fishing in winter has been marvellous. More and 

more tourists will come to Woodgate each winter. They will be disenchanted with poor boat 

access and maybe cause dune damage. It is imperative that we have adequate access for 

fishermen in areas away from fragile dune area. 

• Keep beach access open to everyone, no designated access paths. Educate residents and tourists to 

respect and look after dunes 

• Boat access and public access, present boat ramp opposite pub extremely unsafe 


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PRIORITY 4: 

• Sand builds up at boat ramp 

• Caravan park – better organised (across road) 

• Keep caravans on Acacia Street 

• Get rid of mother of millions and noxious weeds 

- To clean up Woodgate 

• Tidiness 

- Because of increased visitors 

• Leave remnant vegetation area to Theodolite Creek as it is 

• Hard surface parking at main BBQ areas and parks will attract people to these areas and not park on 

dunes 

• Placement of tables 

- remove cotton wood from foreshore and replace with oak trees and grass because it takes 

over foreshore 

• -caravan foreshore to be grassed to stop erosion 

• No jet skis 

- Woodgate should remain uniquely Australian, not become a copy of Gold Coast, Sunshine 

Coast, Fraser Coast or even Agnes Water 

• Keep noxious weeds under control, keep snakes away 

• Environment upkeep 

PRIORITY 5: 

• Lighting on path 

• Replacement of buoy on artificial reef 

• Safety and environment 

• Wheelchair access to tables 

• she-oaks/enough shade trees 

• The concept of having a no through esplanade as according to the first town plan design (approx 

1973) 

PRIORITY 6+ 

• Poor entry statement 

• More BBQs (covered area) 

• Littering on board walk 

• No fence, no kerbing and channelling on Esplanade 

- This isn’t Belsen 

• Not enough showers (outdoors)/toilets 

• Dune vegetation maintenance – to protect the beach and because local volunteers may not always 

be there 

• Areas around picnic tables should be kept clean 

• Maintain trees on foreshore for dune protection and beach erosion 

• Boardwalks to beach 


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VISIONS OF THE FUTURE 

• Beautiful (6) 

• Environment 

• Protect (5) 

• Natural (7) 

• Safe (3) 

• Anti-development 

• Unique (5) 

• Attractive 

• Deserted 

• Conservation 

• Picturesque 

• Peaceful (8) 

• Stabilised 

• People 

• Liveable 

• Paradise (2) 

• Tranquil (4) 

• Perfection 

• Accessible (3) 

• Good 

• Useable (2) 

• Enjoyable 

• Calmness 

• Unspoilt (3) 

• Sanctuary 

• Improving 

• Scenery 

• Clean 

• Oasis 

• Friendly 

• Serenity 

• Sustainable 

• Static 

• Forever 

• Exciting 

• Quiet 

• Uncluttered 

• Idyllic 

• Nature 

• Jewel 


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APPENDIX ONE: CONSULTATION MEETING AGENDA 



PUBLIC MEETING 

Woodgate Community Hall: Thursday, October 7, 2004 – 7.00pm 

AGENDA 

6.30pm – Set up at Woodgate Community Hall – hand out check tickets as 

people arrive 

7.00pm – Acknowledgement, Introductions, Agenda – Cr Bill Trevor, Mayor of Isis 

7.10pm – Overview of EDAW Gillespie and Planning Process – Peter Rand (EDAW) 

7.20pm – Overview of meeting proceedings – Rod Ainsworth 

− Defining groups 

7.30pm – Community and Environmental Concerns 

- listed on maps (one per group) in black 

- suggested solutions noted on maps in red 

8.20pm – Devise priorities 

- Same groups – top three priorities discussed and notated at 

top of page (one priority per page) 

- Participants to notate their rationales for determining top three 

priorities on the appropriate page 

8.50pm – Summary, Conclusions, Thanks 

9.00pm – Collect names, contacts and one word descriptor of the future of the 

site (check tickets) 


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Woodgate Coastal Management Plan Survey Responses 



COMMUNITY CONSULTATION 

SURVEY RESPONSES 

Prepared on 22 October 2004 

VERSION 1 

Prepared by: 

Rod Ainsworth 

Business, Cultural and Community Consultant 

PO Box 2372 

Bundaberg QLD 4670 

Phone: 07 4154 4174 

Mobile: 0409 595 704 

Email: mail@rodainsworth.biz 


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SUMMARY PAPER 

OVERVIEW 

75 written responses were received by Woodgate residents and ratepayers with regards to 

the Woodgate Coastal Management Plan community consultation. This is in addition to the 

95 people who were present at the community consultation meeting on Thursday, 7 

October 2004. There were some people who responded to the survey following the meeting 

so there is some cross-over in these numbers. 

This paper summarises the written responses received from residents and ratepayers and 

logs, verbatim, all of the issues raised by respondents. 

It is important to emphasise at the outset that, in any community consultation, a number of 

issues will be raised that have a bearing on the community in general but are beyond the 

scope of this consultation – to provide information pertaining to the Woodgate Coastal 

Management Plan. Therefore, those ‘additional’ views have not been included in this 

summary, though they are listed in the body of the survey response text. 

It should also be pointed out that there was a regular repetition of a feeling that no change 

was needed in Woodgate. It seems that this feeling is from the ‘older’ respondents. 

Nevertheless, this feeling emerged often throughout the responses and may need to be 

managed by Council. 

The letter to ratepayers and residents and the survey form are included in this paper at 

Appendix One and Appendix Two respectively. 

A contact list was collated out of this process and is provided to Council as a separate document. 


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SUMMARY OF ISSUES 

It seems that the predominant themes emerging from the surveys (in no particular order) are: 

Access 

Safety 

Preservation 

Facilities 

Access: 

• Vehicular and pedestrian access was a key issue. The issue of vehicle access emerged 

predominantly. That is, the community is seeking guidance on placing strict controls on this practice. 

• Disability access has been alluded to in the responses. 

• Added to these issues is the promotion of access through adequate signage. However, respondents 

have asked for Council to ensure that a plethora of signage does not cause ‘visual pollution’. 

Safety: 

Issues relating to safety were: 

• The safety and maintenance of the boat ramp 

• Adequate lighting 

• Adequate maintenance (including maintenance of drainage) 

• Pedestrian safety 

• Traffic mitigation (speed bumps emerged throughout as a possible solution to traffic issues along 

The Esplanade) 

Preservation: 

• The issue of development control was raised often by the community. Here, too, respondents seem 

to be looking to Council for leadership in maintaining and managing environmental and aesthetic 

uniqueness through development regulations (especially with regard to businesses and raised 

housing and apartments). It was pointed out that the National Park and foreshore areas are what 

make Woodgate unique and should be maintained at all costs. 

• Consultation – the community seems generally supportive of being consulted on Council’s plans. 

• Issues of kangaroos and dogs emerged throughout. People see the need to restrict dogs in and on 

the foreshore area and for the management of the kangaroo population. 

• Weed and vegetation management 

• Protection of habitats: 

− Fish 

− Dunes (and erosion mitigation) 

− National Park 

− Wildlife 

− Marshes and mangroves 

• Protection of fishing: 

− Creation and/or maintenance of buffer zones 

− Issues with drag netting 

− Issues with the channelling of Theodolite Creek 

Facilities: 

Building and maintaining recreational facilities emerged as a common theme. It was said that: 

− toilets 

− parking 

− BBQ areas 

− boat ramp 

− seating 

− rubbish bins (including recycling bins) 

were the major issues here. 


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SURVEY RESPONSES 

What are the key community and environmental issues, as you see them, regarding the 

ongoing management of the Woodgate coastal environment? 

Community: 

• The boat ramp in front of the hotel is dangerous to use. Too steep and slippery, no protection from SE 

swell and break. Access to beach at 12 th Avenue for boats is difficult. A concrete ramp is required and 

floating break water (barrage). 

• Restoration of the currently overgrown park area south from present beach 

• Vehicle access to the southern end of Barramundi Drive 

• Moving current vehicle access point south to a point adjacent to the national park boundary with entry 

off Walker’s Point or banning beach driving completely 

• That all future development of essential and desirable services, and residential development, 

affecting both residents and visitors to Woodgate, be limited to ensure the community have both a 

sense of scale and character that reflects a “retreat” rather than a “tourist mecca”. 

• If we are to have a retirement village or something similar, the occupants need access to 

entertainment and shopping venues, also handy health facilities. 

• Walkways on to the beach from the pathway need to be maintained. 

• The parking area at the shelter sheds off 2 nd Avenue need a better resurfacing – “hoons” love the 

water filled potholes when it rains. 

• Need for a couple more toilet blocks – one at boat ramp, and one at 4/5 th Avenues. 

• Community Hall needs to be bigger. 

• Toilet Facilities. 

• Parking away from foreshore. 

• Bus shelter. 

• Seating at intervals along walkway for older people. 

• Disability facilities. 

• Safe, adequate boat access – fix ramp. 

• More toilets along front with BBQs, tables, showers and parking. 

• Limited boat access along beach front. 

• Developed parking for vehicles and trailers. 

• Lighting on walkway. 

• No 4WDs on beach – only for boat access. 

• Pedestrian crossing in front of Caravan Park. 

• Our view it is in very good condition and managed quite well. We see no need for change. 

• Limiting the height of future building. 

• Keep the beach a family friendly beach as is or similar to now with access to it by the elderly, 

pensioners, children, wildlife etc. Those that can’t walk can drive along this beach and enjoy it. Don’t 

change this area to something else as then it won’t be the place we all love and enjoy as it is. 

• Access to Woodgate via ferry from Burrum Heads. 

• Importance of sewerage. 

• Public use areas. 

• Recreation infrastructure. 

• Pedestrian and vehicle access. 

• Over-development. 

• High-rise development. 

• There needs to be a high level of community consultation in the development process to ensure that 

the local residents are able to voice their opinions on the level of development within the area. 

• Careful planning for more community recreational areas – bushwalks, parks, boardwalks, 4WD beach 

access, boating facilities. 

• People will do less damage to beach front if they are allow to use all areas. Controlling people to 

narrow access always looks an eyesore. 

• Keep commercial use areas small and focussed. 

• Carefully control access to the beach for safety. 

• Over use of motor boats and jet skis. 

• Reasonable limits on development to limit total population in holiday periods to reduce pressure on 

environment. 


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• Preservation of the view from the beach of Casuarina covered dunes. 

• Controlled access points to the beach. 

• Boat ramp. 

• No high rise building. 

• Slow down traffic on esplanade. 

• Any further commercial development be limited to Acacia Street, not Esplanade. 

• Speed bumps along Esplanade or preferably closure of Esplanade to traffic. 

• People access. 

• Picnic tables only allowed on west side of pathway. 

• Proper designated car parking areas. 

• More speed bumps. 

• Maintenance of active, access and lifestyle. I.e. Maintenance of walkways, sports facilities. 

• Regular community consultation. 

• At the moment it is a very good community with most facilities for the size of Woodgate. It can only 

grow as the demand grows. For development, the council should have a solid plan with no deviations. 

• Reintroduce recycling service to householders/property owners. 

• Central place for first aid/ambulance centre. 

• Community overview of maintaining/implementing a creative approach to protecting/beautifying 

Woodgate Beach. 

• Population cap. 

• Development restrictions. 

• Industrial business restrictions. 

• Create a few amphitheatres, bring in some musical concerts. 

• Allow more church services in the parks. 

• Turn the wetlands into a wildlife park with a tourism building. 

• Traffic calming on the Esplanade. 

• Complete of Acacia Street to Walkers Point Road and traffic calming. 

• No resort development and/or limit commercial developments. 

• Building storey limits on Esplanade, next street, last row. 

• Public picnicking facilities remain at present levels. 

• Overdevelopment appears to be an issue, already Woodgate is looking like suburbs. It detracts from 

a natural, peaceful community type of living with too many people and their pets. Future housing 

needs to be kept to a minimum and planned with wildlife corridors. 

• To keep the friendly community spirit as it is now, that is the beauty of this place. It should be kept for 

future generations and not to degenerate to multi-storey buildings like the Sunshine Coast. We are 

concerned that future councils might lose the vision of the current council to keep Woodgate Beach 

as beautiful and pristine as it is now. Don’t lose touch with this vision. 

• Cap population growth along foreshore. 

• Limited rezoning of unit development to certain areas. 

• Height restrictions to any unit developments/housing. 

• Provision of health facilities. 

• Walk-ways. 

• Stop the gutters being formed and washing out paths. 

• Keep community small. 

• Build facilities such as ambulance and aged care. 

• Increasing use of beach and foreshore. 

• To restrict domestic animals from the beach and adjacent dune area. 

• Restriction of motor vehicles from the beach and dune area. 

• Attract some business. 

• Attract young generations as well. 

• Keep working with community. 

• Increased police presence outside of school holiday periods. 

• Provision of all weather, all tide boat ramp. 

• Continued vehicular use of beach between Woodgate and Burrum Point. 

• More reliable power supply. 

• Mail delivery. 

• Ambulance centre. 

• Overpopulation putting pressure on local infrastructure such as waste management and roads. 

• To preserve the present Woodgate atmosphere and lifestyle by keeping all further development at a 

low density level with a larger landscaped area eg. Green lawns and shrubs. 

• Maintain the suburban (as opposed to city) lifestyle as currently exists and is enjoyed. 


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• Sewerage. This will assist the environment by eliminating sewerage from the water table. 

• Spend rate money more wisely, not on consultants who will tell us what we already know. 

• Leave our beach alone. 

• Sustainable commercial centre that can sustain a permanent population including transport. 

• Recreational fishermen need a good, safe, accessible boat ramp (concrete with a rock groyne). 

• Adequate parking area for boats and trailers. 

• 40 kph speed limit particularly on Esplanade (as far as Theodolite Creek) 

• A useable foreshore, not a locked up wilderness as at Bribie Island. 

• Dispersed access to beach for launch/retrieval of boats with distributed parking facilities- not one big 

ramp and ugly car park. 

• Medical facilities. 

• Control of vehicular access on the Esplanade especially during peak visitor periods. 

• Provision of sufficient cycle and pedestrian pathways to minimise environmental damage. 

• Provide an industrial estate well away from residential areas due to noise, small and other pollution. 

• Place more parks in the residential areas. 

• Provide more toilet blocks. 

• Skate bowls and things for adolescents to do. 

• Bus to Bundaberg/Childers maybe once a week. 

• Master plan of settlement that takes a 10/20 and 30 year view – a unique beach settlement. 

• Ensuring that infrastructure is at pace with population growth – road, power, sewerage, public utilities, 

amenities, business and recreation activities 

• Public transport access to Childers/Bundaberg. 

• Cater for ageing population. 

• Signage for boat speeds at Theodolite Creek where people swim. 

• Boat ramp hazard. 

• Front beach decking gaps. 

• More amenity blocks at strategic positions along the foreshore. 

• Public toilets at Burrum River end near 11 th Avenue. 

• Provision for more commercial shops i.e. Chemists, greengrocers, butchers, etc. 

• Ensure water, sewerage and electricity meets needs of growing population 

• Limit new units to be built to maintain sensible balance with number of existing private homes. 

• Maintain height restrictions as per Isis Shire Council management plan. 

• To ensure that adequate long term planning is in place to ensure future facilities and to ensure that 

development does not proceed in an ad-hoc fashion. 

• Have one long term view – 25+ years. Woodgate will become a very desirable place – development 

must be controlled. 

• Police/ambulance stations. 

• Ban 4WD vehicles from beach access near residential areas. 

• 50 kph speed limit on Acacia Street and south of Spratt Street, residential area on Walkers Point 

Road 

• Footpath/walkway on Acacia Street for safety of pedestrians and cyclists. 

• Fast track sewerage. 

• No bridge access across Burrum River 

• Doctor and ambulance services 

• No high rise in front of Acacia Street 

• Two storey buildings only. 

• Keep Woodgate community as it is no in regard to land release for housing. 

• Boat access to beach near 1 st Avenue 

• Sign all access (boat access) 


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Environmental: 

• If the public has safe access to the water for boating, the use of tractors will not be required through 

the sand dunes to launch boats. These areas can be closed off and improved. 

• With increasing population, particularly during holiday periods, many near miss encounters between 

vehicles and beach goers are occurring. Eventually a serious accident will occur. Also some 

irresponsible drivers have already caused dune damage, this will only increase with more beach 

usage 

• Limit foreshore/esplanade development 

• Limit building heights to two storeys. 

• Recognise that the uniqueness of Woodgate is provided by the flora and fauna of the national park 

and the foreshore environment, both of which are sensitive to change. 

• All development must be proven to have no or sustainable pressures on those environments and not 

negate the natural, visual impact of these features by the provision of non essential activities or the 

introduction of exotic plants. 

• Leave things as they are. I have owned a home here for 53 years, lived permanent for 26 years, been 

a regular visitor for over 70 years and 95% of the foreshore hasn’t altered. 

• Trees on the foreshore need to be tidied up. Some are overhanging the walkway- some have been 

cut but left where they fell – some struck by lightning and left how they fell, others have split and parts 

have fallen and as well as being dangerous are also unsightly. 

• Natural environment 

• Foreshore protection 

• Dogs on leash 

• Dogs not allowed on central beach area 

• Removal of dog droppings by owners with bag provided at intervals along beach forefront 

• Maintain vegetation on dunes 

• More litter bins and incorporating recycling bins for cans/bottles etc 

• Protection of mangroves and no channelling of Theodolite Creek 

• Vehicles using the beach and climbing up and down dunes 

• Retaining the beautiful, peaceful atmosphere and environment and pristine surroundings. 

• Keep big business, high rise buildings etc. away from the frontal areas of the beach, so as to keep 

from interfering with the present look, shadows, traffic etc that goes with this type of business is or will 

interfere with the look as we know it today. I call that environmental impact or damage and that does 

not have to happen. 

• Cleaning up foreshore and dunes by clearing noxious weeds and vegetation debris 

• Monitoring kangaroo numbers (too many cause problems in residential area) 

• Vegetation management 

• Buffer for fish and tidal areas 

• Over fishing/drag netting 

• Protecting the foreshore and dunes area 

• Protecting native habitats and environments 

• Preservation of all currently allocated national park areas – these areas should never be claimed for 

residential or tourist development 

• Preservation of marine environment and shore line road 

• Ensure development of roads and infrastructure does not impact or encroach on the coastal dune 

along the Esplanade or encroach into the national park surrounding Woodgate 

• Protection of dunes 

• Mangrove retention 

• Maintain natural watercourse 

• No interference with the mouth of Theodolite Creek 

• Consult with the Burrum Council regarding the mouth of the Burrum River (changes will impact on 

Woodgate Beach enormously) 

• Pollution of the waterways 

• Maintaining low key development of facilities such as recent walkways and limit areas of bitumen car 

parks along frontal dune 

• Preservation of national park and fish habitat areas by controls on development such as stormwater 

runoff 

• Spraying of weeds 

• Protection of dunes from vehicles 

• Retain national park 

• Maintain national park habitats 

• Limit beach access, no 4WD, tractor or any other vehicle 


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• Only proper, fenced access into designated areas 

• No vehicle access at all 

• Promote native vegetation 

• Weed control – no sprays 

• No jet skis 

• No mowing of native grass 

• Review of beach vehicle access 

• Review of pedestrian access through dunes 

• Maintenance of vegetation and bird/wildlife habitat 

• Reduction in clearing of properties 

• Regulate use of bore water 

• Development Frizzels Road – in the 90 proposed blocks not one open space, parkland or playground 

– this should be an absolute must for Council and developers to have these open spaces 

• Non destruction of primary vegetation on land holders blocks and national park 

• Eliminate Council wastage through channelling and kerbing which can go to ground water 

• Allow community access to chipped vegetation material to mulch properties and conserve water 

consumption 

• Vehicular beach access 

• Dune protection 

• Wildlife protection 

• There has been too much clearing of beautiful trees in recent times (because developers think people 

will buy their cleared land). We actually bought our block at Woodgate because it had trees 

• Maintain/increase present levels of vegetation on foreshore strip 

• Encourage use of native plants on private land 

• Install sewerage ASAP 

• Reduce/prohibit “reclamation” of marsh area around 1 st Avenue 

• Install more public rubbish bines between 4 th and 12 th Avenues 

• Local permits for “tractor” launching of boats 1-12 th Avenue otherwise boat ramps around Walkers 

Point 

• We need local wildlife rescue and a community and visitor education programme on how individuals 

can do their bit to conserve our natural environment eg. What plants are native to the area for 

residents to plant 

• More signage to pedestrian access areas and not to feed wildlife – making it clear as to where 

pedestrian access to the beach will help save vegetation, and if visitors stopped feeding kangaroos 

we will hopefully stop dangerous incidents similar to one experience by myself earlier this year. We 

don’t want a Fraser dingo experience at Woodgate. 

• Woodgate Beach, Burrum River and Theodolite Creek are in very good condition and should remain 

so with caring population and council. 

• 4WD access should always remain controlled and not be allowed ever to go further north than it is 

now, and no access to beach by 4WD at north end of beach. 

• Sand dunes should be cared for and the community spirit that is there now will see that it does. 

• All foreshores to be left as they are with protected buffer zones, no excavation of mangroves in any 

areas of Woodgate Beach and creeks 

• Maintaining the pristine natural environment 

• Sewerage vital for any further development 

• Not allow over development or high rise buildings 

• Do not allow building encroachment of national park or wetland areas 

• Invasion of weeds and pests along foreshore and nearby land 

• Try to make the beach and dunes area pristine, the way it should be 

• Pollution free developments for sea and air 

• Low density development 

• If any doubts, don’t do it 

• Underground power along the esplanade 

• Sewage 

• Greater access to the Woodgate tip 

• No high rise along the esplanade, max. three stories 

• Allowable height of buildings not to be increased 

• Over development leading to the destruction of local flora and fauna, erosion, salinity 

• To preserve the national parks and green areas and bird and wildlife habitats 

• Continue with current management practices “ if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” 

• Limit further development to control and restrict pollution 


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• Keep tree clearing to a minimum 

• Beach to be kept in natural state but well managed 

• “mother of millions” is presently out of control along foreshore and needs immediate attention 

• Wildlife is a great attraction but can’t be left to get out of control 

• Voucher system (say 6 free passes per year) for household waste at refuse tip, for ratepayers 

• Continuation of beach erosion and protection 

• No high rise development 

• No ferry across Burrum River estuary 

• Foreshore to be stabilised with soil and cleaned up (not cleared) such as at Redcliffe, Townsville, 

Cairns, Bargara, etc. 

• We are surrounded by 50,000 acres of wilderness 

• No beach front or riverfront developments 

• Beach and dune erosion 

• Maintaining existing national park areas 

• Protection of sensitive marine habitat areas 

• Keep treatment works at a distance to have no odour influence on community 

• Preservation of beach, dunes, fishery, estuaries, national park 

• Need to keep the kangaroo population in balance 

• Cap population growth 

• Consistent management of nature strip 

• Noxious weeds 

• More footpaths 

• Stabilise pathways over sand dunes to the water 

• Signage indicating no littering into estuaries from wooden walkways 

• Protection of dugong breeding grounds in the Burrum River i.e. Stop agricultural run off 

• Introduce native indigenous vegetation along foreshore to replace existing trees on long term basis 

• Ban use of jet skis 

• Introduce sensible long term plan for culling kangaroo numbers 

• To ensure future development does not degrade the existing environment 

• Investigation into a desalination plant for the future to ensure plentiful water supply 

• Weed eradication from dune areas 

• Further develop and maintain grassed areas west side of walkway on the esplanade 

• Get rid of rubbishy undergrowth 

• Greater respect by some for wildlife kangaroos/wallabies, plovers and magpies 

• Limit building heights 

• Remove dog exercise area from south of town 

• Ban net fishers 

• National park area to be kept as is 

• Dune protection is very important as erosion control 

• Stop the sand being removed from Acacia Street 


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What one thing would you most like to change? 

• No dogs in populated areas of the beach 

• The swamp between 1 st Avenue and Theodolite Creek 

• To reduce the potential negative effects on the dunes and foreshore ecology from motor vehicle 

beach access. This should include tractors (for boat launching purposes) other than at designated 

boat ramp points. 

• Tidy the vegetation when necessary and keep the weeds in check 

• Planting of shrubs or small trees on footpath 

• We would not want the tractor/trailer boat ramp closed which is close to 77 Esplanade 

• Vehicles using the beach between 12 th Avenue and the national park should be prohibited. The 

access ramp should be relocated to the national park. There is no reason for vehicles to use the 

beach to reach Woodgate and there are major safety and environmental issues involved in allowing 

vehicles to use the beach. 

• Dogs to be completely banned from beach 

• Keep the beach front area as it is, move all through traffic to the rear of the township, but do not close 

off the Esplanade to traffic or at every avenue 

• Foreshore to be more user friendly (paved pathway is excellent start) 

• Pedestrian and vehicle access 

• Nothing – Woodgate is perfect how it is 

• The foreshore at the southern end, as it was when we acquired our land, and built my home. This 

area was cleared for the sole purpose of high land sales, now it is thick vegetation and useless for the 

enjoyment of home owners and visitors 

• Road and beach safety situation involving speed (cars, boats, jet skis) 

• I would like to prevent change at Woodgate. That is prevent Woodgate from becoming an 

overcrowded commercial seaside resort such as can be found in the states southern counterparts 

• 4WD access moved to Park boundary 

• Eliminate 4WD vehicles from beach or confine them to the southern tip of beach accessed from 

Walkers Point Road 

• Having mother of millions controlled by spraying 

• Boat ramp should be further north where beach is flat 

• One decent boat ramp 

• Controlled parking areas 

• Stop clearing of natural trees and vegetation, including cypress forest at Theodolite Creek as national 

park/protected zone 

• The ugly, huge, sometimes three bay sheds that seem to dominate just about every house in 

Woodgate. Council should ban them. Owners to have only the conventional double garage and 

garden shed. They seem to dominate every block of land 

• Pass an amendment to a by-law whereby land owners and builders cannot take out trees other than 

ones for immediate building space 

• No cars on beach 

• The mentality that thinks brick and tile is beautiful. For Heaven’s sake raise community design sense. 

Award good house designs and encourage something different. 

• We own a block of land. We live in a modern type motor home (fully self contained) worth more than 

some houses yet not permitted to “park” on our property. Have a system of permits to allow above for 

3 weeks at a time, 4 times a year or something, - flexible, innovative, progressive council thinking. 

• My major concern is the weed mother of millions is taking a hold. But as a community we can beat it. 

Then native grasses and low plants to take their place. 

• Allow for tidal changes to affect the natural waterway along 1 st Avenue (stagnant water) 

• To move the southern vehicular beach access from its current position further to the south to stop 

interaction with pedestrian beach goers 

• Improve Acacia Street 

• Traffic calming devices, speed bumps on esplanade 

• Removal of all 4WDs from beach area south of 12 th Avenue 

• Restrict domestic animals from the beach so that it can once again be a safe area for humans 

• Short term probably build some change rooms/showers/toilets along beach strip for visitors to use 

• An all weather, all tide boat ramp at Woodgate is essential both for convenience and safety. Fishing is 

the biggest activity in Woodgate. All the ramps are substandard given how many folks fish etc. 

• No private motor vehicles allowed on any section of the beach 

• To limit future development 

• Nothing 


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• The excessive number of “don’t” signs is visual pollution. Replace with brochures distributed to rental 

houses and from Real Estate Agents and PO 

• The council view that we must have change. Leave Woodgate beach alone and spend the ratepayers 

money more responsibly on more important issues 

• The dangerous, slippery wooden boat ramp near the hotel 

• Lower speeds on esplanade 

• The council must adopt a positive attitude to the beach – make it user friendly, don’t forbid everything, 

by everybody, in case a small minority do the wrong thing. The big “don’t do anything” signs at 

Woodgate are amongst the least friendly I have seen anywhere in Australia. 

• By-laws on dwellings to allow shed type living for a two year period prior to full house building 

• I’m sure I’ll be able to think of something when I’ve lived in Woodgate for some time but for now 

nothing. 

• More toilet facilities, if on foot the present facilities do not meet the need. 

• Reinstate previous ruling rescinded by council – no dogs on beach between 2 nd and 14 th Avenues or 

at least designate dog free area or don’t allow dogs on 100% of beach 

• Divert traffic from esplanade by completing Acacia Street and slowing traffic flow on Esplanade 

• Full rates on vacant land 

• Limited beach access to stop erosion of the sand dunes 

• We need more shops – too long to drive to Childers for basic needs 

• Total termination of vehicular access to beach 

• The size of sheds should be reduced to a percentage of the block – not a square metre size, which 

includes the house etc. 

• More interesting parks for children and teenagers 

• Restrict 4WD access to Woodgate beach for public safety and environmental reasons 

• Differential rates for long time residents otherwise they will be priced out of Woodgate by rate 

increases 

• I would like to see a better road into Woodgate 

• Get rid of the roos or at least cull them, starting with the bucks 


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If you were to set three (3) priorities for the future of the Woodgate Beach coastal 

environment, what would they be? 

• Improved access to water for boating 

• Fencing off of damaged sections to encourage regrowth 

• Continuation of Banksia Park. Through to the southern end of Barramundi Drive and linking with the 

proposed community utilisation area between Barramundi Drive and the national park northern 

boundary 

• Restricting or possibly eliminating beach vehicle access between Woodgate Beach and Burrum Point 

• Removal of noxious weeds, and planting program of grasses and native trees 

• Sewage 

• Protection of the natural tree framework within the residential fabric (both existing and rotational 

plantings) by way of preservation orders and /or acquisition of land through reserve entitlement for 

walkways, recreation and scenic purposes 

• The recognition that Woodgate’s surrounding ecology is unique and to ensure all future development 

is measured against that 

• The recognition that Woodgate is nestled within a predominantly “organic” environment where the 

most significant emergent feature is the existing native tree framework and therefore to adopt height 

restrictions on all habitable structures to protect this visual quality 

• Keep the area between Esplanade and path clean 

• Undergrowth and ground cover more important than trees, as the roots cause sand erosion 

• Install an all weather boat ramp at either end of the beach, 1 st Avenue and 12 th Avenue 

• Keep the foreshore tidy but not altered 

• Never allow major building projects on any part of the foreshore 

• Foreshore protection 

• Removal of dead wood and weeds only and replanting of natives such as bottle brush and grevillea 

and those shrubs and trees as in the national park area 

• No high rise buildings 

• Maintaining and improving vegetation on dunes 

• No traffic on dunes other than designated boat access areas 

• Minimise large scale development, keep current character, sleepy, lay-back getaway 

• More barriers i.e. Posts to limit vehicular access to parking access walkway along 

esplanade/foreshore 

• Continued planting of she oaks to replace old ones 

• To move vehicular access from 12 th Avenue area to a more southerly point 

• Keep high rise buildings to one storey and if more to be at least 4 streets back so not to change the 

look of foreshore area 

• Keep commercial premises, except for a few as at present, away from frontal area 

• More shade trees, tables, beach access to enhance this area, but not to change it, beautify, not 

change the basics 

• Beautification of foreshore 

• Beautification of esplanade(lights, seating, kerbing, paving, gardens) 

• Beautification of picnic area at mouth of Theodolite Creek 

• Dune protection and erosion control 

• Vegetation 

• Buffer areas 

• No high rise buildings, no major development as far as blocks of units and high density dwelling 

• Protection of the environment 

• Protection of the native animals and their habitats 

• Preservation of the uniqueness of Woodgate ensuring the marine environment and national park are 

preserved in their current state. This preservation should also extend to surrounding areas such as 

Walker’s Point, Burrum River and Theodolite Creek 

• The infrastructure required to accommodate increases in tourist and residential development in the 

area, must be carefully planned to minimise impact on the coastal environment. Traffic management, 

ground water quality, storm water runoff, water management and sewage treatment should all be 

considered before approval is given for large scale development 

• Limits need to be set on the amount and height of multi-storey development within the area 

(especially along the Esplanade) 

• Vehicles only on beach area well away from homes 

• Better ground covers with less rubbish trees so people can enjoy the view of the sea 

• Ensure equipment supplied on beach front is safe to sit on 


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• Preservation of fish habitat (Theodolite Creek) and wildlife corridors 

• Dune protection 

• Safe, sensible beach access 

• Prevent any form of high rise building above single storey housing (promote a style for the 

construction of future homes on estates in keeping with a beach holiday home theme) 

• Maintain a single lane road system with plenty of traffic calming 

• Prevent any form of run off or discharge to the natural water ways including storm water run off from 

the road system 

• As little change as possible 

• Preservation of the current low impact development and natural feel of the area 

• Preservation of surrounding areas particularly vegetation, and water quality 

• Preservation of the unsophisticated family atmosphere 

• Controlled spraying of mother of millions weeds and removal of asparagus fern by council bobcat 

• A decent and safe boat ramp 

• Curbing along esplanade except vehicle accesses to the beach, this will stop people driving vehicles 

wherever they like 

• New boat ramp 

• Slow traffic on esplanade 

• Keep Woodgate as a family fishing and holiday spot 

• Limit commercial development/units/high rises 

• Limit traffic along esplanade area 

• Maintain animal habitats/fishing 

• Controlled access areas for people and vehicles 

• Promote native vegetation ( no more Norfolk pines) 

• House Creek to be set aside for wildlife reserve 

• Leave beach and sand dunes as is 

• Maintain natural environment/habitats 

• Restrict and review building and development codes 

• Regulate fish and spawning habitats 

• Maintain casuarinas foreshore/weed control 

• No cutting down (on any block of land) trees unless council gives permission 

• Maximum of 2 stories only for any development 

• More open space for relaxation and recreation 

• Maintain responsible approach to the use of fishing resources 

• Take more account of the communities feeling towards development 

• To seriously look at the damage to the environment that vehicular traffic is creating, noise, pollution 

and extra pedestrian numbers along the southern end of the beach (go for a walk up to the end and 

see for yourself the damage that is left after 30 and more cars have been going up and down all day 

on the weekend) 

• Don’t be so green orientated that you take away peoples access to 4WD tracks etc. 

• If you become too restrictive then you will destroy the liveability of the place 

• Encourage users of national parks to look after the place, but don’t become like enviro-nazis in an 

effort to be politically correct 

• Preserve the integrity and ideals of natural Australian beach frontage, not Noosa, Gold Coast or 

Hervey Bay situations 

• Limit clear-felling of new developments 

• With any major development (i.e. What is proposed at the moment near where you enter Woodgate), 

that sensible design and colouring to blend in with the ambience of the national park and vegetation – 

covenant to disallow garish colours (bright blue, purple, pink, red etc) 

• Set better rules and regulations for housing and commercial developments to allow more wildlife 

areas and remove the old fencing near the footbridge from Kookaburra Way to 1 st Avenue 

• Better signage re. feeding wildlife and beach access (hopefully we won’t need to barrier the 

vegetation, this would be an eyesore to the esplanade) 

• Fishing management to include safety for seabirds, dolphins and other animals that may be harmed 

by fishing practices 

• Not to have high rise – maximum 2 stories or a certain height 

• Not to become commercialised- infrastructure is needed but not a major shopping centre 

• Future land development to be controlled, not to have small lot housing eg. Older cottages bulldozed 

and multi-dwellings put on subdivided blocks 

• Foreshore to be left as is and promoted as how our coastline should be with a protected buffer and 

walkways 


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• Limit net fishing on foreshore and have some areas as sanctuary, including creeks 

• Limit housing development in close proximity to creeks 

• Minimize human impact 

• Maximize appeal of environment to native flora and fauna 

• Sewage 

• Walkways 

• Do not allow 4WDs on beach or national park 

• Do not allow ferry access from Hervey Bay 

• Do not allow jet skis 

• Removal of weeds from foreshore 

• Replanting of native trees and grasses 

• Better protection for foreshore/dunes from people and their cars 

• Restrict domestic animals 

• Restrict vehicles 

• Make it safe and pristine for humans 

• Keep the beach and parks for the public, free of any developments 

• No high rise developments at all 

• Take smaller steps with developments and changes 

• Provision of an all weather, all tide boat ramp 

• Continued vehicular access to beach 

• Underground power along the esplanade and no high rise development 

• No vehicle should be allowed on the beach 

• No commercial fishing 

• No subdivision of national parks 

• Minimize future development 

• Improve existing roads 

• Any future development must be environmentally sensitive/friendly 

• To prevent overdevelopment 

• To preserve the parks and green areas 

• To keep building at two levels 

• Move beach vehicular access at the southern end further south 

• Re-establish beach vehicular access north of freehold land in Theodolite Creek Drive, such access to 

double as a fire break 

• Set up floating barriers off the wooden ramp to break up the wave action 

• Speed up the introduction of a sewer system 

• Look at Woodgate beach as it is and has been, it needs no change. We don’t want it to be another 

Gold Coast or Hervey Bay 

• Do not employ expensive consultants to fix something that is not in need of fixing 

• Clean up the vegetation in dune area (rid it of mother of millions) 

• More public facilities in centre of foreshore 

• A new boat ramp and parking lot 

• Erosion control on beach 

• Traffic speed control, esplanade 

• Ban on Gold Coast like high rise development 

• Useable 

• Tidy 

• Beach access to launch boats 

• Control new development releases 

• Maintain open area access for the public 

• Beach and dune erosion 

• Maintaining existing national park areas 

• Protection of sensitive marine habitat areas 

• Keep oaks on dunes 

• Keep the flora and fauna area from Woodgate Road through behind Acacia Street to Theodolite 

Creek a protected flora and fauna environment 

• Keep the concrete jungle out, the esplanade must not become like the Sunshine or Gold Coast 

• No jet skis (safety), current disaster Somerset Dam 

• Mow grass esplanade to improve coverage of grass as in front of shop hibiscus 

• Continued posts esplanade (road side of path) to stop cars 


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• Consistent management of vegetation on nature strip and foreshore. The section between 10 th and 

12 th Avenue is atypical. The strip is overgrown, reducing airflow and causing the residents to be very 

hot. Some residents have taken this in their own hands causing unsightly sections of the nature strip 

• Shift the beach vehicle access further south beyond the settlement 

• Develop a signage policy for the settlement that is commensurate with its environment – minimalist 

and to specifications 

• Access to Bundaberg via coast 

• Employment no 1 will encourage business 

• Once above is achieved then sewerage 

• No more than 3 storey development 

• Limited development west of the hardware shop 

• Some development at Theodolite Creek to protect the area 

• Storm water discharge 

• Parking for beach goers but not right at beach 

• Banning of jet skis 

• Protect foreshore and beach 

• Maintain casual lifestyle 

• Widen walking/cycling track to accommodate increasing population 

• Ensure there is a long term plan in place 

• Control the height of buildings – max 3 floors 

• Ensure the national park boundaries are not encroached on by developers 

• Keeping careful and regular monitoring of pollutants entering beach and ocean 

• Limit the number of dwellings constructed 

• Limit height of dwellings being constructed 

• Controlled management plan 

• Restrict 4WD access to beach 

• Designate responsibility for removal of dead wildlife – often left to rot on the side of the road 

• Sewage 

• Ban on commercial fishing 

• No bridge 

• Recycling – provision of recycling bins 

• More bins on beach 

• Keeping Woodgate as natural as possible 

• Increasing bike tracks and walkways 

• Planting suitable native trees and shrubs in very open areas 


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Describe your vision for the future of Woodgate’s coastal environment. 

• Safe access to water for boats and trailers 

• Removal of tractors will improve dune areas 

• Tiled access for public use 

• A totally integrated foreshore community access and recreation area from Theodolite Creek Drive to 

the national park boundary south of Barramundi Drive, incorporating dune stabilisation and 

beautification 

• Permanent supervision and maintenance personnel for closing of sections and planting programs 

• Marina developed behind 1 st Avenue channel to Theodolite Creek, channel to sea 

• As a long term resident of this fantastic beach, I personally would like to see the environment pretty 

well left alone. We do need upgraded boat ramps – fishing being our main pastime, we do need 

better access for wheelchairs to some of the picnic tables. Parking at some of the picnic tables and 

the tables need to be tidied up. I would like to know that when I am older that this place will still be as 

special to me as it was/is and that it never becomes an “us and them” type of unfriendly community, 

as is what has happened in some of the surrounding beach communities when the environment 

hasn’t been properly attended to 

• A natural environment with facilities to serve both local, long stay eg. Holidays and day visitors 

• Maintain the unique features – no high rises – no “ chains” of any sort – food or shopping 

• No vehicles on beach 

• A safe environment for the community to enjoy the beautiful beach 

• Foreshore clearing and beautification to continue past Banksia Park 

• I would like to see Woodgate retain its natural ecological environment to be unspoilt by 

overdevelopment 

• Keep the open natural look of this area; keep it fairly family friendly with access as has been enjoyed 

locally for years past, without lockout and oppressive legislation. Keep costs down so locals are not 

forced out of this area, as has happened along the coast in a lot of other places. Beautify or enhance 

the area, but not change its basic look to something else. 

• The foreshore and esplanade to be enhanced so the area is able to be used more extensively by the 

public. Any changes should retain the natural beauty of the area and in no way endanger the natural 

environment 

• Happy community being able to access areas. Decrease expenses to community 

• Pristine 

• Woodgate Beach’s greatest asset is its natural beauty, people come to Woodgate to live and holiday 

in a peaceful, quiet environment. Woodgate has a unique environment where development has been 

minimal up to the current time. Through careful planning the current council should use its power to 

ensure this uniqueness is preserved. Development needs to be managed in a controlled and 

measured way to ensure minimal impact on the Woodgate Beach environment, so it can be enjoyed 

in its current state by future generations. Don’t let Woodgate to be turned into another rat-race like 

Noosa. 

• Our vision of the future accords with the “touch the earth lightly” concept of land occupation and 

beach use while acknowledging the need for reasonable utilisation. Keep Woodgate a relaxed, safe 

as possible, family holiday destination rather than a suburban shopping precinct. 

• Maintain and promote the structure and atmosphere of a seaside family escape for those who desire 

this type of lifestyle as opposed to the hustle and bustle of places like the Gold and Sunshine coast 

regions 

• An area that values the natural environment by preservation of the frontal dune vegetation and 

surrounding area that is still safe for the wildlife, and where families come for an unstructured, quiet 

holiday 

• A place that can remain as natural as possible but protected, so generations to come can enjoy what 

we have 

• Do not want Woodgate turned into another Gold Coast, retain as a family holiday resort 

• Maintain “sleepy” fishing village atmosphere – no Noosa/Gold Coast developments 

• The Isis Shire Council has an opportunity to “do it right” and not follow Gold Coast and Noosa 

• Woodgate is, and should be, protected as an eco sensitive area with diverse flora and fauna. 

Ecotourism will provide valuable returns to the residents, council and tourists 

• Keep vehicles off beach. If 4WD vehicles are allowed on beach, entry should be adjacent to national 

park, only south of entry 

• A natural foreshore environment with low impact development and maintenance/protection of all 

remaining/remnant forest and vegetation. A place to enjoy peace and tranquillity and natural coastal 

environment. Develop Woodgate for what it is and not as potential Noosa or Sunshine Coast. 


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• To keep development down to 2 stories only and the national park never ever to be encroached upon 

for development. 

• It is an ideal opportunity to implement a unique approach to development 

• Implement a water conservation program that could be used to advantage in a creative 

wetlands/swamp/eco-environment 

• Consider what population cap the area can sustain 

• A happy place, that allows creativity. I would hate to think that all sorts of harsh legislation were going 

to be passed to restrict everybody’s access to everything. Please put back the buoy’s that were 

removed from the artificial reef. 

• Strict adherence to a foreshore management plan. If in 10 years or so, it is required – limit public 

access through some areas of the acacias to promote dune regeneration. Maintain a low-key natural 

serenity that currently pervades the area and community. Although revenue producing for council, too 

many developments will on denigrate the environment, but will not bode will for council image 

• For all of Woodgate Beach to become a unique area that is environmentally protected so we can 

keep it a special area on the Qld coastline that cannot be developed into a Gold or Sunshine Coast 

type area. This would enhance the attraction for visitors both Australian and from overseas for future 

generations. 

• We would like to see Woodgate Beach remain as beautiful as it is today. A community that cares will 

see it does, providing it doesn’t grow too big. I’m sure we will all do everything to keep it this way. It is 

a jewel, and very special. Everybody we have met so far is friendly and welcoming and it would be a 

shame in 30-50 years that it could become like any other beach township. Once it has changed it will 

never come back to now. 

• Draw a line in the sand. Limit growth/sustainable growth. It should never become a copy of the 

suburbs or Gold Coast/North Coast 

• As SE Qld’s population continues to grow, people will seek places of clean, natural simplicity more 

and more. Woodgate will be sought out for these virtues. 

• Stop the erosion on beachfront. Replant native vegetation 

• Peace and quiet 

• That the pristine environment be maintained and enhanced by planting of native vegetation 

• The only thing you should leave in a pristine environment is your footprints and only take away 

photographs and memories. Not the mess from dogs and vehicle ruts 

• Retain and respect the natural beauty of Woodgate Beach, that is the only long term value 

• I love it just the way it is. The plan should maintain the peaceful, relaxed atmosphere – no high rise 

development and no bridge across the Burrum River. 

• We congratulate Isis Shire Council for its past vision of Woodgate, a job well done. Looking to the 

future Woodgate coastal environment should be kept as close as possible to its natural environment, 

therefore future commercial activities which bring pollution and noises should be avoided 

• Let’s keep it the way it is, that’s why we all love it 

• Because of Woodgate’s outstanding beach our vision for the future of Woodgate is that developers 

will move in, over-riding the wishes of residents and changing Woodgate to their detriment as we 

have seen happen at Bargara, Noosa, Maroochydore and the Gold Coast 

• I have observed the beach and dunes for 23 years. No further interference is warranted. 

• Woodgate Beach coastal environment is healthy and pristine as it is; it needs no interference as that 

would be detrimental to the beach and the community it serves. 

• To remain in its natural state but managed 

• Great just the way it is – though keep down traffic speeds and keep the whole place a “cul-de-sac” 

with no through traffic to other centres via ferry etc, and no real high-rise 

• Esplanade/foreshore as in Redcliffe/Cairns/Townsville/Bargara again, useable, friendly. This is our 

park – apart from 2 playground areas there is no other 

• Maintain village type feel 

• That we enjoy it, not destroy so that future generations are not robbed of this natural environment we 

can so easily take for granted 

• Stay as sweet as it is. Flora and fauna protected. The development rising from low on Esplanade to 

higher at back (not the other way round). Breeze flow would be better, and this is fairer to land 

holders who generally have made Woodgate what it is today. 

• Playgrounds, pools, entertainment all along esplanade 

• Council and developers should provide an architectural advice service (for a fee) to assist new home 

builders with designs that are efficient, cost effective and complement the environment. There is 

already a proliferation of low set 3 br brick homes that are more in keeping with the outer suburbs of 

cities. Woodgate needs badging to match the vision. It is a unique area. The policy and planning 

decisions that are made now will determine what the area looks like in the future – a built environment 


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• that matches the natural environment. The risk is that it will resemble a brick veneer seaside suburb 

of Childers and Bundaberg 

• Million dollar oasis if a road is linked from Bundaberg to Hervey Bay via Coast 

• Retaining the simple family beach community atmosphere (no Gold Coast please). Regular coastal 

and river mouth water quality monitoring 

• Target people to come to Woodgate who want to come for what we already offer. Not to come to 

change to place to become a replica of many other coastal destinations eg. Noosa etc 

• Long term I see a very desirable location. Proper foreshore facilities for tourists, adequate commercial 

sites along the main road, eg.cafes, restaurants, continuous development to the day visitor facilities 

along the foreshore 

• Maintain its pristine condition both inland and coastal 

• Controlled development of public picnic areas along the esplanade. 

• Revegetation of denuded dune areas 

• Maintenance of our unique coastal environment to ensure no high rise development on the esplanade 

• Keep it as undeveloped as possible 

• Stay as it is 

• To remain as pristine as possible not overdeveloped like Noosa was. To retain its uniqueness and 

maintain its national parks and wildlife 

• My vision would be a natural and not overdeveloped small community with a good supermarket, 

medical centre and petrol station, coffee shops and small restaurants. A well maintained beachfront 

with recreation areas and plenty of greenery. 


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SUGGESTIONS… 

Are there any other thoughts, suggestions or issues that you would like to raise with regards to the 

development of the Woodgate Coastal Management Plan that have not been outlined in the above 

questions? 

• Our local community to be involved in all decision making 

• No outside company to gain control 

• No jet ski allowed in public areas 

• The area between esplanade and path from 10 th Avenue south is a disgrace and needs dead timber etc 

removed. Kerbing on esplanade in front of homes would enhance the area 

• With regards to the sand dunes along the foreshore, it is quite noticeable that in some places the dunes 

are a lot lower than in other places. Is it possible before the summer storms/cyclones arrive that these 

sections can be built up to combat erosion 

• Boat ramp upgrade or located at south end of beach, 4WD and tractor access at southern end only 

• When sewage system installed – second pipe for rainwater/stormwater to be collected at a location 

convenient to Woodgate. This water can be used by council to irrigate oval and vegetation on sand dunes 

• 4WD vehicles cause some problem. We would like to see these prevented from using the beach 

• More walking tracks and multi use areas as the present paths along beach front. Keep this area a family 

oriented holiday spot, safe for children, elderly etc including the much appreciated wildlife which exists in 

this spot integrated with locals and public and enjoyed by all 

• Why do people get charged electricity, water and sewerage if paying full rates but do not have three 

services on? 

• Don’t allow the plan to be driven by economic gains by a few stakeholders – to the detriment and 

destruction of the uniqueness of Woodgate’s coastal environment 

• Interests of developers should not be prime 

• No kerbing and guttering on esplanade or any unnecessary fencing. Thinning of vegetation south from 

about 10 th Avenue, large trees eg. Moreton Bay ash, cottonwood undesirable 

• Ensure replanting of dunes to eliminate weeds and have trees to replace ageing casuarinas (perhaps a 

tree preservation order) 

• A waterway management plan to separate jet skis and trail bikes from near residential areas 

• Stop vehicles parking on ocean side of pathway 

• I will more than likely be at the meeting but get nervous with speaking when there are a lot of people, as I 

would envisage there will be on the night, so I am putting my thoughts down on paper so they can be 

recorded 

• I am 85 years old and I have been holidaying at Woodgate for the last 80 years. In that time the beach 

has not changed (except at boat ramp). I consider that all the trees on the foreshore only block the view 

and are not necessary. 

• No structures higher than two stories 

• No high density living environments 

• Current road plan between 2 nd and 3 rd Avenues be adhered to 

• Kerbing and channelling not necessary on esplanade. Water disappears quickly. Acacia Street should be 

widened and completed 

• The most important part is to keep what makes Woodgate special – that is the surrounding national park 

and the natural vegetation – the quietness which makes it different to the Noosa’s of the world. Stop 

developers clearing land for housing please. 

• Along with the Childers township look at boosting the Multi-cultural Festival that may include the 

Woodgate area 

• Develop a recycled glass factory that produces a product similar to Mexican glassware’s 

• I would like to congratulate the council on the beautiful boardwalk along the esplanade, BBQ facilities, 

park and playground. Please keep Woodgate the beautiful place I remember as a child so that my 

grandkids and future families can enjoy it, as I did 

• A building set up in the wetlands, showing pictures of birds and animals frequenting the area would be 

nice. Such a place could even be a little commercial selling postcards, t-shirts, etc and perhaps a coffee 

shop. This would be a tourist attraction in itself. A kind of wildlife museum if you like. It could feature 

wildlife documentaries, the life cycle of the dugong or the dolphins or the whales 

• We highly commend council on the public dump point in Childers. For Woodgate, when sewerage goes 

through, please ensure a similar facility is made available for travellers. Progressive thinking by councils 

is greatly appreciated (and supported) by our motor homing travellers. Keep Woodgate natural 


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• I like to chat with Woodgate visitors and their reasons for loving Woodgate are because its like this used 

to be, it’s quiet and relaxed and having wildlife all around is wonderful. The more development we have 

will take away the uniqueness of the area. If it’s the dollar people are interested in, well, there won’t be 

much to be made when we have no native flora and fauna because that’s what makes the area so 

special. Visitors will simply head to the nearest crowded, built out holiday strip to where they live, because 

if we don’t be very careful and put in strict rules and regulations Woodgate Beach will become just the 

same 

• As it appears Woodgate Beach is mainly being occupied by approx. 50 years +, we were wondering 

about the future of an ageing population (we will be fit and healthy though). Also we aren’t sure of the 

water supply for Woodgate. Is there ample for increased population in times of drought etc. 

• Control of mosquitoes due to stagnant water along gutters in summer 

• Allow for tidal changes to enter waterway along 1 st Avenue 

• Sand build up at boat ramp in Theodolite Creek 

• That all building heights along foreshore be strictly enforced to maintain the visual aspect of Woodgate 

Beach, as seen from the beach and bay 

• Have a fair vote regarding domestic animals allowed on the whole 17 kames of beach. Let all residents 

vote, not just the dog owners that attended the biased council public meeting when the current ruling was 

approved by 80 dog owners to 20 that did not have dogs 

• The oval behind the sports club could do with an upgrade 

• Leave Woodgate alone. We love it as it is 

• Woodgate Beach has a unique beauty and lifestyle now. This has existed for many years and left alone 

will continue into the future. There is no need for any new coastal management plan. Leave it alone 

• To remain in its natural state but managed 

• We have had a house here for 25 + years. The only serious erosion during that time has been north of the 

last houses on Theodolite Creek Drive and the creek- an area of no development. Other short term 

erosion has come and gone with prevailing winds but remains basically the same 

• Any retail development to be away from esplanade strip 

• Community facilities should be geared to enabling couples with young families to remain in Woodgate, 

and not flee when school problems get too much. Unless young people see Woodgate as a place worth 

protecting who will worry in the future 

• Please try to be different from the now tired Sunshine/Gold Coast type of development. People want a 

place that retains that family feel, rather than “yuppie paradise”. This does not mean you can’t progress, 

just do it better 

• Boat ramps to be improved 

• Extend distances net fishermen and trawlers off shore 

• Sand being removed Acacia Street seems excessive 

• Improve signage for direction of caravans, Acacia Street end of 3 rd Avenue 

• Council needs to complete their environmental plan but not just respond with an option that might reflect 

consultation. Council needs to present back to the community a number of options that challenges 

residents and promotes a number of pathways for the future development of the community. Ideas should 

also be sought from modern successful planners who have experience in master planning beach 

settlements 

• Is Woodgate a separate shire to Isis, if not why doesn’t everyone’s rates go towards sewerage. As 

Woodgate rates must have been used at some stage for Childer’s development over the years. 

• Development of an aged care facilities in the future 

• Thanks to Isis Shire Council for its vision and forward thinking regarding our coastline as Gold Coast type 

development spreads inexorably up and down the entire east coast it is imperative to save pockets such 

as Woodgate to ensure that is remains as close to its natural state as possible so that people of future 

generations can enjoy a natural coastal environment which is so fast disappearing 

• Nude bathing occurs on the beach south of Banksia Park. This is not a designated nudist beach. It should 

be policed and stopped before it gets out of hand 

• Reserve land for future use – eg. Boat club, life saving club etc 

• No 4WD access to the beach. Restrict them to the eastern end, much as it is now 

• Develop the back road to keep local traffic to the main tourist road 

• Gradually construct control walkways to the beach (board walks) 

• Maintaining walk and bike track to ensure safety is observed (no loose bricks etc) 

• They adorn our national coat of arms, the logo of our national airline, the proud name of our Australian 

rugby league team but when lying dead on the side of the road no-one wants to know them – our native 

kangaroos and wallabies – please remember them 

• Keep beach access for residents only 

• I can’t think of any more suggestions but think Woodgate is a lovely place as it is and a great job has 

been done so far especially the beachfront areas 


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APPENDIX ONE: LETTER TO RATEPAYERS AND RESIDENTS 

16 September 2004 

 

 

Re: Invitation for Community Input – Woodgate Beach Coastal Management Plan 

Dear 

As part of the Isis Shire Council’s adopted Corporate Plan, the Council has committed to developing a 

Coastal Management Plan to ensure a coordinated and measured approach to the management of this delicate 

coastal environment. The development of the plan at this time is particularly important, given the increase in 

visitations to Woodgate and the surge in property development in the area. The Plan will take into account 

issues raised by the people of Woodgate Beach, the Environmental Protection Agency and Isis Shire Council. 

Though the State Coastal Management Plan provides general guidance on how such coastal management 

issues should be addressed, it is essential that specific local issues are discussed so that environmental and 

community needs may be balanced. 

The issues broadly identified to date include: 

• Vegetation management 

• Dune protection and erosion control 

• Pedestrian and vehicular access 

• Development of public use areas and recreation infrastructure 

• Management of buffer areas to tidal and fish habitat precincts 

Isis Shire Council has engaged EDAW Gillespie, a Brisbane based consultancy who have prepared similar 

plans for other Queensland coastal Councils, to develop the Woodgate Beach Coastal Management Plan. 

You are invited to attend a community meeting at the Woodgate Hall at 7.00pm on: 

Thursday, 7 October 2004 

It is hoped that individuals and groups from the community will bring specific issues, questions or concerns 

that you may have regarding the management of the coastal areas of Woodgate Beach for open discussion 

during the evening. Rod Ainsworth, a community consultation specialist, has been engaged to facilitate the 

evening. 

Council intends to place a draft of the Woodgate Beach Coastal Management Plan on public exhibition at the 

Shire Office and at the Woodgate Beach First National Real Estate office when the plan has been developed 

in late November or early December. Submissions will again be invited from the public during this time. 

Another community meeting will be held early in 2005 (possibly February) to present the Plan to Woodgate 

residents and ratepayers. 

If you are unable to attend the October meeting, Council invites you to complete the enclosed feedback form 

and return it either in person to the Shire Office at 45 Churchill Street, by post , by fax on 4126 1604 or by 

emailing your responses to info@isis.qld.gov.au by COB on Friday, 8 October. 

Isis Shire Council looks forward to working with the people of Woodgate Beach in developing this Plan – a 

process which is vital for the future sustainable development of your community. 

Yours sincerely 

SD Johnston, Chief Executive Officer 


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APPENDIX TWO: COMMUNITY SURVEY 


WOODGATE BEACH COASTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 

FEEDBACK FORM 

There are two (2) pages. Please print in black or blue biro. 

NAME 

RESIDENTIAL or 

PROPERTY ADDRESS 

What are the key community and environmental issues, as you see them, regarding the 

ongoing management of the Woodgate coastal environment? 

COMMUNITY 

ENVIRONMENTAL 

What one thing would you most like to change? 


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If you were to set three (3) priorities for the future of the Woodgate Beach 

coastal environment, what would they be? 

Describe your vision for the future of Woodgate’s coastal environment. 

SUGGESTIONS… 

Are there any other thoughts, suggestions or issues that you would like to raise with 

regards to the development of the Woodgate Coastal Management Plan that 

have not been outlined in the above questions? 

PLEASE RETURN either in person to the Shire Office at 45 Churchill Street, by fax on 4126 

1604 or by emailing your responses to info@isis.qld.gov.au by COB on 

FRIDAY, 8 OCTOBER 2004 


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Woodgate Management Plan.indd - Bundaberg Regional Council

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