The Greater Hamilton Volcanic Trails Masterplan has been endorsed by Council. Check out a copy of the finalised Masterplan here.
The volcanic landscape of South West Victoria is one of global significance. It forms a part of western volcanic plains which are geologically important for their extent and relatively recent volcanic activity. The landscape also has great cultural significance to Traditional Owners who have inhabited the region for at least 45,000 years.
The volcanic sites within the Southern Grampians Shire have remained relatively undeveloped and largely overlooked as a tourist destination. The development of the Volcanic Trail is an opportunity to change that. It presents an opportunity to not only develop the visitor economy of the shire, but to preserve and protect these important sites for future generations.
The development of the Volcanic Trail needs to be considered within the context of established tourist routes in the surrounding regions, such as the Coonawarra, the Great Ocean Road and Grampians National Park. There is also a particular synergy with the development of tourism for the Budj Bim Cultural Landscape that shares the same volcanic history.
As valued community assets, we understand that there will be significant interest from stakeholders in any proposal to change or install new infrastructure at many of these sites. In this context, it is essential to provide community members with an opportunity to be engaged in a meaningful and genuine way in the master plan process.