Review of Deans Marsh Community Plan Underway
- The Cottage
- Jul 2
- 1 min read

A group of local residents has come together to review the Deans Marsh Community Plan
2020–2030, following a public call for volunteers.
The first formal meeting was held on Monday 23 June with Helen Jennings from Wayfarers Consulting facilitating the process. The Surf Coast Shire is funding the review.
The group began by acknowledging the strength and depth of the original community
consultation that shaped the current plan. It was agreed that the core values, vision, and
priorities remain relevant and reflective of the community’s voice, and therefore should not
be altered.
Instead, the review will focus on a few key areas. These include identifying any changes in
demographics, infrastructure, and government policy since the plan was first created—especially in light of the impacts of COVID-19. The team will also document which
actions have already been achieved and revise others where circumstances have shifted.
Improving the design and accessibility of the plan was also a priority. Suggestions included
developing a one-page summary and moving background content into appendices for easier navigation.
The group also discussed the importance of clarifying the governance of the plan, particularly the role of CAN (Community Action Network) and who will formally endorse the reviewed document.
The review group will meet four times across July and August, with a report to be presented
to CAN at the conclusion. Details of the final meeting will be shared so community members
can attend and contribute.
Helen Jennings (Facilitator), Liza Bush, Jamie Comley, Jasmine Cooper Sutton, James
McLennan, James Maund, Virginia Morton, Julie Ryan, Caroline Shelbourne and Toni
Stevens.