Southern Grampians Shire Council are developing a plan to support our incredible local natural environment and want to know your favourite nature spots in the shire, to guide the strategy development and inform future asset management planning.
The Southern Grampians Plan for Nature will focus on roadside conservation, public reserve management, planning scheme and existing regulatory protections, policy and strategy alignment. It will examine the various natural locations within the shire to develop a shared vision between Council and key stakeholders including Traditional Owners, and set strategies and actions to protect, and importantly enhance, biodiversity values.
Southern Grampians Shire Council Mayor Cr David Robertson acknowledges the privilege that comes with living in a region so diverse and environmentally rich.
“We really are spoilt here in the Southern Grampians to have such beautiful natural landscapes,” said Cr Robertson.
“The stunning waterfalls at Wannon and Nigretta, the majestic Grampians National Park, the Byaduk Caves and Mount Rouse are among the many wonders at our doorstep.
“In order to support these unique locations, we are developing a Plan for Nature which will help to identify and highlight these locations and prioritise focus for future Council investment in the protection of these natural assets.
“The Plan will also look at the greatest threats to these areas including habitat loss, pest animals and climate change impacts, and the opportunities that are important to residents in their connection and engagement with these sites.
“We are encouraging residents to get involved and have a bit of fun while telling us what natural elements of the Shire you value most. We’ve developed an interactive online map where you can drop your comments and tell us what is important to you, or you can also get involved by completing an online survey.
“For those with a keen eye for photography, take a photo of your favourite location and share it to our Facebook page or send to Council via email at council@sthgrampians.vic.gov.au and you might see your image in the developed strategy,” said Cr Robertson.
This work forms part of the second phase of engagement with the first stage already completed which involved targeting invested stakeholder groups. Consultation with Traditional Owners will be undertaken concurrently with community feedback, with the aim to present a draft plan to the community in the first half of 2023.
“Residents without online access can also pick up a hardcopy from Customer Service at Brown Street or head to the Greater Hamilton Library for assistance,” concluded Cr Robertson.
To have your say, visit www.sthgrampians.vic.gov.au/haveyoursay or check out our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/southerngrampiansshirecouncil/. Feedback closes 5:00pm Friday 23 December 2022.