Campaspe Shire Council endorsed plans developed in conjunction with the Tongala and Colbinabbin communities at last night's meeting.
The Colbinabbin Place Based Plan and the Colbinabbin Recreation Reserve Master Plan were developed by the Colbinabbin community who identified a community vision of:
"Our strong spirit and innovative thinking creates a vibrant and welcoming place for our community to thrive."
The Colbinabbin Place Based Plan Governance Committee had worked to develop the Place Based Plan over the past 12 months. The Colbinabbin Town Recreation Reserve Committee of Management and Campaspe Shire Council developed the Master Plan for the Recreation Reserve, in conjunction with the development of the Place Based Plan so that community feedback was sought for both plans.
The committees identified key actions to help achieve the community vision for Colbinabbin, including short-term, long-term and ongoing projects in the areas such as social well-being, local services and facilities, economic development, as well as advocacy priorities for the town.
Mayor Rob Amos thanked the community for their input and work toward the development of the two key community strategic documents.
"We know that Colbinabbin has a strong community who are dedicated to helping their town flourish, which we have seen in past projects such as the development of the Art Silos and the incredible achievement of forming a community co-operative to purchase the General Store, so we are excited to see the next steps for the town and the projects the residents aim to achieve."
The Tongala Development Group also had the Tongala Place Based Plan endorsed by Council.
Mayor Amos said that the Tongala community should be congratulated on the high level of community engagement that was undertaken in forming the plan.
"The Tongala Place Base Plan was developed through a wide-ranging consultation process where over 600 residents provided input."
The Tongala Place Based Plan identified the following vision:
"In 2032, Tongala district is:
A modern and progressive rural community
Defined by productive business and agricultural land
Unified by its strong and inclusive community spirit
Thriving because of our diverse people and businesses
A place of excellence."
Like Colbinabbin, the Tongala Place Based Plan identified "Quick win" projects that could be achieved quickly as well as medium and long-term projects to work towards, with the aim of strengthening sporting and recreation facilities and improving the local economy through tourism and events.
"With the great weather, proximity to Kyabram or Echuca and range of excellent local services and employment options, the township has seen significant growth, with new families relocating to live in Tongala.
"From the award-winning murals around the town, to the Hay Bay Trail and the Eats and Beats event, Tongala is another fantastic example of a community driven town that is determined to make its mark and thrive.
"Council looks forward to working collaboratively with these communities to see the plans progress and the visions of these townships come into fruition," Mayor Amos said.
The Colbinabbin Place Based Plan, the Colbinabbin Recreation Reserve Master Plan and the Tongala Place Base Plan are all available to view on Council's website.
