Victorian Government seeks purchase of East Paddock

Published on 25 March 2022

Macedon Ranges Shire Council has received an updated offer from the Victorian Government to purchase the East Paddock at Hanging Rock.

The offer is in line with the State Government’s election commitment in 2018 and desire to have the entire Hanging Rock precinct in one ownership.

Council is inviting residents to provide feedback on the proposed purchase by the Victorian Government via an online submission and at an in-person meeting scheduled for Thursday 12 May 2022 where community members will have the opportunity to speak to Councillors about the potential sale and their submission.

The East Paddock covers an area of approximately 56 acres (22.7 hectares) and sits adjacent to the Hanging Rock Reserve. The land was formerly used for livestock grazing until it was bought by the former Shire of Newham and Woodend in 1990.

The East Paddock is zoned Public Park and Recreation Zone, which recognises land for ‘public recreation and open space’. It has been used to host a number of events including concerts for international artists such as Rod Stewart, Bruce Springsteen and Elton John. It attracts visitors from near and far and provides positive tourism and economic benefits to the region.

Discussions with Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) have indicated that if the sale of the East Paddock proceeds, the land will still remain as public open space and able to continue to host a limited number of concerts and events. Council will still likely have an ongoing role in the operation of the site.

Mayor, Cr Jennifer Anderson said Council recognises the cultural significance of Hanging Rock and its surrounds, its importance as a key landmark for all residents of the Shire, and the intrinsic links between East Paddock and the Victorian Government’s broader Hanging Rock Masterplan. As such, it is important for members of the community to have their say regarding the proposed sale.

“Community consultation is an important step in facilitating public awareness and enabling public participation in Council’s decision making processes. We encourage members of the community to provide feedback on this proposal to ensure their voice is heard”, she said.

It is intended that a report with the results of the community feedback will be presented at the Council Meeting scheduled for 25 May 2022 for consideration and determination about the proposed sale of East Paddock.

Online submissions for community consultation will close on Friday 22 April.