Have your say on plan for Mt Noorat

Published on 29 May 2019

A draft of Mt Noorat’s first ever Management Plan has been released for public comment after Councillors endorsed the plan at last night’s Corangamite Shire Council meeting.

The draft Mt Noorat Management Plan sets out a vision of what the 146 hectare site will look like in 30 years’ time, becoming a ‘destination known for its geological and natural values and experiences, where culture past and present is understood and respected, and where access is provided for all to enjoy’.

Central Ward Councillor Helen Durant said the draft plan was the result of wide-ranging consultation with the community.

“Council received 215 survey responses on the future of Mount Noorat, demonstrating that the community is passionate about the site,” Cr Durant said.

“People love the mount for the uninterrupted views, the peace and quiet, to be in nature, and to appreciate the natural geology and history of the area.”

Key objectives include: Protect and enhance the natural values of Mount Noorat; provide quality visitor experiences that reflect the character of the site; Aboriginal and European history is understood and respected; walking tracks are accessible, well maintained and cater for diverse experiences; the financial management and governance of Mount Noorat is self-sustaining.

Cr Durant added the Management Plan recognised the balance between enhancing the visitor experience and protecting the natural values and character of the site.

“I think this plan is a good reflection of what the community wants because of the broad input gathered at the development stage”.

“Now it is time to look closely at the document and any feedback needs to relate specifically to what is in the draft Plan,” she said.

The Mount Noorat Management Committee was formed in 2018 after the estate of Niel Black gifted Mount Noorat to Corangamite Shire in 2017.

Cr Durant said the Committee would be responsible for carrying out actions in the Management Plan once adopted by Council.

“The idea is that Mount Noorat is managed in the best interests of the community and that it remains a valuable and accessible community asset in years to come,” she said.

The draft Mt Noorat Management Plan and online submission form are available here

Hard copies of the plan are available at the Civic Centre and Terang Library. People wishing to make a submission can do so via an online submission form or in written form to: Corangamite Shire, PO Box 84, Camperdown, 3260.

Submissions close 5 pm, Friday 12 July.