Frustration grows over GORCAPA’s handling of Pt Grey redevelopment

Some are concerned that the community is being shut out of discussions surrounding a $12.5m overhaul of a famous Lorne precinct.

Locals are concerned the building will fall into disrepair if fenced off indefinitely. Picture: Google Maps

Tension is brewing in Lorne as locals grow frustrated with the management of a $12.5m project that has been years in the making.

The Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority (GORCAPA) is in charge of the Point Grey Redevelopment — one of three Geelong City Deal initiatives taking place along the Surf Coast.

However, some community groups are concerned their voices are being ignored.

Friends of Pt Grey member John Barker said many residents harboured “lasting distrust” towards the organisation because of how it handled the communication process.

“GORCAPA have been having closed door meetings with several of the stakeholders in the town … so there hasn’t been any community scrutiny of the discussions going on,” he said.

“[We] must be fully informed about future options for the site and assured that its history will be appropriately respected.”

“Locals are feeling quite betrayed … it’s a disaster.”

GORCAPA holds meetings with a community reference group, which is made up of key stakeholders in the area like the Lorne Aquatic and Angling Club.

A privacy clause in the terms of reference — which has since been removed — caused confusion among the group about what could be shared externally.

Another point of contention has been the closure of the Fishermen’s Co-Operative Building for asbestos removal and surveying works.

Constructed in 1948, it holds cultural significance and has many community uses — however, some fear it will not survive the redevelopment.

The Lorne Fishermen's Co-Operative Building in 1985. Picture: Lorne Historical Society

“A vacant, fenced building will likely be vandalised and prematurely demolished,” Mr Barker said.

“They haven’t explained why they need to do it now when planning for the project hasn’t finished.”

An engagement report, conducted by GORCAPA, revealed more than 600 people said they wanted existing materials from the co-op to be used for a new building.

In June, the Urban Design Framework will be released for community consultation.

Mr Barker implored the community to reach out to GORCAPA chief executive Jodie Sizer to voice their opposition to the co-op closure.

However, Ms Sizer resigned from the role on April 17.

Board chair Libby Mears thanked the outgoing leader for her “dedication” after four years in the position.

“Jodie has played a significant part in establishing the organisation’s foundations, engaging with community groups and traditional owners, and shaping our strategic direction during our formative years.”

“We acknowledge her contribution and leadership through this important period of growth and transition.”

Christine Ferguson was appointed interim chief executive on Monday while the authority look for a new boss.

Ms Ferguson said that “all the evidence” was being examined in regards to the best use of the co-op moving forward.

“Due to its age and its location near the shoreline, the cooperative building has suffered from significant damage, and these issues need to be addressed for safety reasons before any decisions about the building’s future can be reached,” she said.

“We are working with the community to plan for the future of Point Grey together.”

Originally published as Frustration grows over GORCAPA’s handling of Pt Grey redevelopment