Southern Grampians Shire Council has released a draft strategy which will guide the development of recreation and leisure across the shire for the next decade.
The draft Recreation and Leisure Strategy, endorsed by council for public exhibition last night, outlines a long-term vision and recommends the works required, to cater for the Shire’s recreation and leisure activities into the future.
Development of the plan included meeting with sporting clubs, schools, organisations and community groups to better understand their needs. Over 300 public surveys were completed and 50 clubs and organisations participated in forums and interviews. The consultation highlighted what is currently working well, the issues and gaps in existing facilities, programs and services.
The key strategies and recommendations within the strategy are guided by Southern Grampians Shire Council Vision from the 2017-2021 Council Plan: That Southern Grampians Shire will be recognised as a well-connected, dynamic Regional Centre, supporting a vibrant, healthy and inclusive community.
Southern Grampians Shire Mayor Cr Mary-Ann Brown said that planning for sport and recreation facilities was becoming increasingly important in developing the community.
“Our community expects quality facilities and opportunities for improving their physical, social and emotional health, and Council plays a significant role in meeting this need,” Cr Brown said.
“In developing this Recreation and Leisure Strategy we have listened to our community’s priorities. It proposes innovative strategies to meet future challenges, improve quality of life for the community, use existing facilities effectively and make sure that funding is being spent in the right places,” Cr Brown concluded.
The draft Recreation and Leisure Strategy including Master Plans for both Lake Hamilton and Pedrina Park is on public exhibition to allow the community to review the content and ensure that it accurately reflects their feedback. Volume 1- The Strategic Plan and Recommendations and Volume 3 – Master Plans – Lake Hamilton and Pedrina Park will be available for a period of six weeks.
The draft Recreation and Leisure Strategy can be viewed at the Council offices at 111 Brown Street Hamilton or 1 Market Place, Hamilton; at HILAC reception; at the Greater Hamilton library and the mobile library or online at www.sthgrampians.vic.gov.au. Submissions will be accepted until 5pm on Friday 4 January 2019 and can be sent to recreation@sthgrampians.vic.gov.au.
Upon completion of the public exhibition period the Strategy will be reviewed for any necessary amendments and report prepared for Council detailing feedback received. The final document will be presented to Council for adoption at the February Council meeting.