A report will be presented to Council on Tuesday 28 April to provide the results of the community engagement process and to declare all Bayside Beaches (sand only) including Ricketts Point Marine Sanctuary, the Brighton Dunes and surrounds smoke free under Council’s Local Law No.2 ‘Neighbourhood Amenity’.

From 2 December 2019 – 23 February 2020 Council undertook a comprehensive community engagement process. The extended engagement period enabled Council to consult and engage across multiple stakeholders (businesses, clubs, beach goers, visitors and local residents) seeking their feedback. Community consultation was conducted via council’s ‘Have your say’ page on the website and a number of pop up stands located at foreshore and local markets/events. Council received over 1600 feedback comments.

Over 91.5% of respondents were supportive of the proposal; however, issues raised included how the ban would be enforced, the boundary of the designated smoke free area and education of visitors and the Bayside community.

The recommendation within the report is that Council:

1. Notes the positive support from the community for Council to declare all Bayside Beaches (sand only) including Ricketts Point Marine Sanctuary, the Brighton Dunes and surrounds smoke free.
2. Declares all Bayside Beaches (sand only) including Ricketts Point Marine Sanctuary, the Brighton Dunes and surrounds smoke free under Clause 68 of Council’s Local Law No.2 ‘Neighbourhood Amenity’ in accordance with Attachment 1.
3. Causes signs to be erected and maintained for the areas declared as smoke free areas.
4. Informs the community of the new smoke free areas.

The full report is available on Council’s website and includes a plan for implementation including signage, litter management, education and enforcement.

Recently, the State Government has advised that its Pandemic Plan for the Victorian Health Sector has been upgraded to Stage 3. Until further notice, Council and Committee meetings will proceed without members of the public present. Furthermore, noting the Department of Health’s advice pertaining to close contact, meetings will not exceed 2 hours in duration.

Alternative arrangements are in place for members of the community to make a submission in relation to items listed on the agenda, or to submit a public question, via the following links:

Requests to be heard.

Ask a question at an Ordinary Meeting of Council.

For further queries, please speak with the Governance office on 9599 4444.