Setting the direction of more recreational activities

Last updated on 09 May 2023

Council is seeking public feedback to help shape two long-term strategies that will ultimately support the shire’s equestrian community and a key recreation reserve in Woodend.

The Macedon Ranges Community Equestrian Facilities Plan and the Woodend Racecourse Reserve Master Plan are now out for community consultation, in the first stage of a two-stage consultation process to inform the direction of future improvements relevant to each area.

The Macedon Ranges Community Equestrian Facilities Plan – co-funded with the Victorian Government – will assist Council’s planning for future equestrian facilities within the shire. Equestrian clubs operate in Bullengarook, Gisborne, Macedon, Kyneton, Woodend, Lancefield and Riddells Creek.

The Woodend’s Racecourse Reserve was previously a racecourse and home to scouts and little athletics. It is currently home to the Woodend Pony Club, Riddells Creek Adult Riders Club, Hanging Rock and Woodend Petanque Club, and is used by the Woodend Junior Football Club and Woodend Hesket Football Netball Club.

Council’s Director Assets and Operations, Shane Walden, said feedback from a wide range of users in the early stage of the plans’ development would be invaluable.

“Whether you’re a member of one of the clubs or groups involved or just an occasional recreational participant, we appreciate your feedback to help make these plans truly representative and supportive of users’ needs,” he said.

“This will not be the only opportunity to provide feedback either – we plan to consult again once we have draft plans formed before finalising the strategy and master plan.”

An online survey to inform each is open until 5pm on Sunday 28 May, with initial feedback helping to inform draft plans that will again go out to public consultation in a second stage later in the year.

Developing plans such as these are essential in providing a long-term road map for future development and improvement in a pre-planned, strategic manner, with individual projects subject to funding and detailed design.

Recent examples of master plans that have been developed through community consultation and endorsed include the Kyneton Showgrounds, Romsey Park Sports Precinct and Gilbert Gordon Oval in Woodend.

For more information on each master plan’s intent and to have your say, visit mrsc.vic.gov.au/Have-Your-Say