Preserving Bayside’s Natural Wonders: An Interview with Candidate Kylie McIntosh
Bayside, a picturesque coastal region south of Melbourne, is renowned for its stunning natural environment – from the serene beaches and tranquil foreshore to the diverse bushland reserves. As the community prepares for the 2024 Bayside Council elections, the protection and enhancement of this precious natural heritage have become central issues.
One candidate leading the charge is Kylie McIntosh, who is running for the Boyd Ward. With a deep appreciation for Bayside’s unique flora and fauna, Kylie is committed to advocating for stronger environmental policies and community engagement. In this in-depth interview, she shares her vision for safeguarding Bayside’s natural assets and empowering residents to become active stewards of their local ecosystems.
Embracing Bayside’s Natural Wonders
When asked about the natural areas and species she particularly appreciates in Bayside, Kylie’s enthusiasm is palpable. “Absolutely! The beach, including its foreshore vegetation – I love walking along the beach and the coastal path. It’s been so exciting to see the establishment of the Willam Yalukit Nature Reserve and the return of native birds, including the critically endangered Swift Parrot, to the Reserve.”
She also highlights the importance of other green spaces, such as Cheltenham Park and Merinda Park, which offer valuable habitats and recreational opportunities for the community. “These places are vital for their biodiversity and provide a peaceful escape that connects us to nature. I deeply appreciate the work of groups like Friends of Native Wildlife, and if elected as a councillor, I will advocate for protecting and enhancing these natural spaces for future generations.”
The Value of Bayside’s Natural Environment
Kylie firmly believes that Bayside’s natural environment offers immense value to the community, far beyond its aesthetic appeal. “The natural environment is of great benefit to the Bayside community, both in terms of our health and wellbeing, and in helping to sequester carbon and support local wildlife.”
She explains that green spaces, such as parks, beaches, and reserves, foster a sense of connection to nature, improve mental health, and encourage outdoor activity. “Trees and other vegetation also help to improve air quality, provide shade, and can reduce traffic and other noise. These spaces are vital in maintaining the unique character of Bayside and promoting a healthy, balanced lifestyle for residents.”
Key Environmental Priorities for Bayside
When it comes to the most pressing environmental issues facing Bayside, Kylie highlights several key areas of concern. “Maintaining and increasing tree canopy cover, combating declining biodiversity, reducing and eliminating litter, including plastic waste, from parks, roads, and waterways, and addressing air pollution, which can adversely impact human health.”
At the local level, Kylie’s priorities for the Boyd Ward include “protecting and enhancing the local beaches and foreshore, including monitoring coastal erosion and water quality, maintaining and enhancing local parks and gardens, and adding to and maintaining healthy street trees.”
Strengthening the Council’s Environmental Efforts
Kylie acknowledges that Bayside Council has made commendable progress in addressing environmental issues, particularly with the implementation of its Climate Emergency Action Plan and the establishment of the Willam Yalukit Nature Reserve. However, she believes there is still room for improvement.
“I would like to see stronger action to retain and improve our tree canopy cover and also reduced use of herbicides and weedkillers in the local area. Ongoing work to improve urban forest and biodiversity efforts is also crucial.”
Kylie is eager to work with the Council to further enhance its environmental initiatives, focusing on areas such as “protecting green spaces like local parks and reserves, maintaining and enhancing tree canopy cover, and ensuring responsible development that preserves the natural character of the area. Coastal protection, particularly addressing erosion along the beaches and foreshore, is also critical.”
Empowering the Community through Education and Engagement
A key aspect of Kylie’s environmental platform is the belief that the Council should play a pivotal role in educating, engaging, and empowering residents to appreciate and actively care for the local environment. “Yes, absolutely! Both through educating and engaging, but also through its ongoing support of local Bayside conservation and environment groups, including all the ‘Friends of’ groups.”
She envisions the Council supporting and promoting awareness campaigns, such as featuring Biodiversity Month and organizing community events like Wildflower Wanders. “Engaging residents not only raises awareness about environmental issues but also encourages collaborative efforts to protect and enhance Bayside’s natural spaces, ultimately leading to a stronger, more connected community.”
Prioritizing Biodiversity and Wildlife Protection
Kylie is adamant about the importance of biodiversity for Bayside, stating, “Biodiversity is important for Bayside and beyond – declining biodiversity is a significant global challenge where we can and should indeed ‘act local, think global’, especially in the context of growing population pressures and state government plans for urban development.”
She pledges to work toward the effective implementation of the Urban Forest Strategy and the Fresh Waterbodies Management Plans, as well as supporting the provision of supplementary water for wildlife in Bayside’s open spaces. Kylie is also committed to ensuring the protection of the Bronzewings at the Wangara Road site, a crucial habitat for this unique species.
“By prioritizing the Urban Forest Strategy, we can increase tree canopy cover and support urban cooling, while the Fresh Waterbodies Management Plans will help protect and restore our local waterways, ensuring they remain healthy and sustainable. I will advocate for adequate funding, resources, and community engagement to ensure these plans are effectively executed.”
Conclusion: A Sustainable Future for Bayside
Kylie McIntosh’s vision for Bayside’s future is one that harmoniously blends environmental stewardship, community engagement, and sustainable development. As a candidate for the Boyd Ward, she is determined to be a steadfast advocate for the protection and enhancement of the region’s natural assets, empowering residents to become active participants in safeguarding their local ecosystems.
Through her commitment to strengthening the Council’s environmental initiatives, promoting biodiversity and wildlife conservation, and fostering a culture of environmental education and collaboration, Kylie hopes to ensure that Bayside’s unique natural wonders remain vibrant and accessible for generations to come. Her candidacy represents a promising pathway towards a more sustainable and resilient future for the community.
To learn more about Kylie McIntosh’s campaign and her environmental initiatives, please visit the Friends of Native Forests website.
