Since the 2003 Report Card was published, effects of the Alpine fires have become more apparent, while the on-going drought has brought environmental benefits in the form of reduced nutrient input to the Gippsland Lakes. Most of the other condition ratings have remained unchanged, indicating reasonable to good environmental condition on average.

Integrated management effort is recognised for the Snowy River and Gippsland Lakes by raising the stewardship rating. We are confident that stewardship ratings across all assets will continue to improve as Regional Catchment Strategies, Municipal Strategic Statements and other plans are finalised and begin to be implemented.

Natural resource managers in Gippsland will face some major challenges during 2004/2005. Rapid urban development, particularly in coastal areas, requires a major co-ordinated management effort to avoid a decline in the condition of these precious assets. The Victorian Government will release the White Paper on "Securing our Water Future" in June 2004, potentially having major implications for future condition and stewardship of our natural assets.

The Forum will soon commence an exciting process to develop scenarios for Gippsland's future. I look forward to your active involvement in deciding what the community wants Gippsland to be in the year 2030. I also welcome feedback on the usefulness and content of this Report Card.