WORK has started on the Boort levee bank, almost a decade after the Loddon Shire flood mitigation project was funded.
A roadblock to completion of $500,000 levee has been negotiations with the Bendigo-based Dja Dja Wurrung Aboriginal Corporation.
Loddon Shire has confirmed spending $70,000 on  compliance, including a community benefit fee for DJAARA whose CEO Rodney Carter said the community benefit was under $40,000.
Council said the community benefit agreement was consistent with the Timber Creek model after a High Court judgement, not the lesser State Government agreement that had been in place.
“Throughout the land use activity agreement process, required by Victorian law, DJAARA, the Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation, has responded promptly to Loddon Shire Council’s land use activity notifications and worked constructively with Loddon Shire Council so this work could progress,” Mr Carter said.
“DJAARA also works to improve the local environment and economy for all communities. DJAARA’s activities in the area present opportunities for jobs and regional economic growth, achieved through ongoing advocacy to protect the area’s significant cultural heritage and its potential to attract national and international tourism, as evidenced in the Lake Boort Scarred Trees Masterplan.
“DJAARA will continue to work with the local community, the shire and partners to develop economic opportunities for the region, including the potential for tourism, future housing and commercial developments on crown land. 
“By law, community benefits are provided when activities on crown land have an effect on traditional owner rights.  
“Less than $40,000 is payable as monetary community benefits to traditional owners under the current levee agreement between DJAARA and Loddon Shire Council,” Mr Carter said.
Local government is also responsible legal fees of both parties.
Council has engaged local contractor Coutts Earthmoving to undertake the works, which will be delivered in stages. Stages one and two are expected to be completed within four months.