MORNINGTON PENINSULA, June 21, 2025
JanuaryS devastating landslide, estimated to cost Mornington Peninsula ratepayers $8 million, has spurred action. the council is now addressing it’s shortcomings in managing such risks, according to two council directors who testified before an inquiry.
A Critical Risk Assessment
Mornington Peninsula is addressing its landslide risk after a costly incident.
- The council’s budget includes funds for updated landslide data collection.
- Current flood and stormwater strategies lack specific landslide risk references.
- erosion management overlays are being considered for council approval.
What steps is the Mornington Peninsula Council taking to mitigate future landslide risks? The council’s director of assets and infrastructure, David Smith, confirmed that the latest budget includes funds to gather updated data on landslide susceptibility. This comes after an estimated $8 million in costs from a landslide in January.
Smith also admitted that the current flood and stormwater strategy does not specifically mention landslide risks. The council’s manager of strategic and infrastructure planning, Katanya Barlow, revealed that an erosion management overlay is “on the radar”. It could be up for a vote in late July or August, with hopes for approval from Victoria’s planning minister early next year.
Did you know?-Landslide susceptibility data helps identify areas prone to landslides, informing planning and growth decisions. Updated data ensures more accurate risk assessments and better mitigation strategies.
Echoes of the Dandenong Ranges
The Mornington Peninsula’s actions mirror those of the Yarra Ranges Council, which is implementing new planning controls for nearly 2,000 homes in the Dandenong Ranges. These homes were recently identified as being at risk of potential landslips.
The Yarra Ranges Council is acting swiftly to avoid a situation similar to the mccrae landslide. Several homeowners in McCrae are still unable to return to their properties due to the ongoing risks.
reader question:-What long-term effects do you think these landslides will have on property values and community morale in the affected areas?
Paul and Denise Willigenberg, a retired couple, were forced into temporary accommodation since November 2022. They had to evacuate their retirement home almost three years ago following an emergency evacuation order.
Homeowners Caught in the Middle
On the same day the Willigenbergs were evacuated, the council demanded they submit a geotechnical report within 48 hours, at their own expense, to prove their property’s soil stability. Paul Willigenberg expressed his confusion and frustration regarding the order, highlighting the additional stress it caused.
Denise and Paul Willigenburg have been prevented from moving back into their McCrae home since November 2022.
The council’s principal building surveyor, Claudio Flores, acknowledged that it would have been impractical for the Willigenbergs to produce a report within the given timeframe. He later informed the couple that the report was not necessary.
Counsel assisting the inquiry, Mark Costello, highlighted to Flores that the notice had a “very significant impact” on the family. flores responded that the tools available under the Building Act are a “prescribed form” that the council follows, even though the language could be more user-amiable. The inquiry’s deadline to report to the Allan government has been extended to September 10; hearings continue next week.
The Human Cost and Community Spirit
The ongoing ordeal faced by Paul and Denise Willigenberg underscores a critical issue: the profound human impact of these natural disasters. While the Mornington Peninsula Council focuses on infrastructure and risk mitigation, the emotional and financial toll on homeowners like the Willigenbergs deserves equal attention. The Council’s response, as highlighted by the inquiry, demonstrates that the existing procedures, while prescribed, can be improved for user-friendliness, especially in highly stressful situations. The delay in returning to their home, now almost three years, due to the landslide emergency, demonstrates how devastating these events can be. This underscores the need for clearly communicated emergency protocols.
How are communities coping with the aftermath of landslides? Communities often grapple with property devaluation, disruption to daily life, and a decline in community morale.These situations can severely impact mental health.
The long-term consequences extend far beyond property values. The damage done to community spirit, the loss of a sense of security, and the strain on local resources all contribute to the overall impact. The inquiry’s inquiry into the council’s response should not just focus on the process but also analyse the support systems available to residents affected by landslips, considering the emotional toll on individuals and their families.
Rebuilding trust and fostering community after a disaster is crucial. Effective communication from the council, including obvious explanations of decisions, regular updates, and accessible support services, can go a long way in mitigating negative impacts. Community forums,support groups,and counseling services can provide essential resources for homeowners navigating complex issues such as insurance claims,temporary accomodation,and the eventual rebuilding process.
Expert Insight:-Geotechnical and engineering reports must be readily available to help citizens assess the state of their land.
The inquiry should proactively seek to understand: what can be done to ease the challenges of homeowners involved? furthermore, it’s important to consider the cost of the emotional consequences of these tragedies and the effectiveness of the emergency response. The experiences of the Willigenbergs, and other homeowners, provide valuable insight into how the council can improve its responsiveness and offer necessary assistance.
Beyond Infrastructure: Supporting the People
While updating landslide data and implementing erosion management overlays are critical steps, the council must ensure its strategies are people-focused. This can be achieved by:
- Faster Communication: Providing timely and transparent communication to residents.
- Dedicated Support: Establishing a dedicated support hotline or service for affected homeowners.
- Financial Assistance Awareness: Helping homeowners understand available financial aid, including insurance claims and government assistance programs.
- Mental Health Resources: Making mental health resources freely available and easily accessible.
- Clear Legal Guidance: Offering clear legal guidance on property issues, building permits, and other related matters.
By incorporating these measures, the Mornington peninsula council will not only reduce the risks but also rebuild community trust and resilience following future landslide events.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an erosion management overlay, and how does it help?
An erosion management overlay is a planning tool that identifies areas susceptible to erosion and landslides. It enables the council to implement specific regulations, such as restricting building on the land, to mitigate risks and protect residents. It is intended to provide improved safety and reduce the likelihood of building on unsafe land.
How can homeowners assess the risk of landslides on their properties?
Homeowners can consult the council’s planning department for available landslide susceptibility maps. They can also engage self-reliant geotechnical experts to conduct site assessments and provide detailed reports. It’s also advisable to stay informed about any new council regulations or guidelines regarding land management.
What support is available for those impacted by landslides, such as the Willigenbergs?
Support includes counseling services, financial aid programs (such as those offered by the government or insurance providers), and legal advice. Homeowners should also seek to learn about the government’s disaster recovery and community progress efforts.
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