Plans for an international equine centre in the south-east of Macedon Ranges Shire will go to the next stage after the council confirmed its support for the project.
The council agreed to pursue a partnership with the state government and industry to produce a full business case, despite the opposition of three councillors last Wednesday night.
Economic development and tourism manager Kylie Lethbridge told the meeting the proposed centre was ‘‘not just about horses, not just about dogs or anyone who might use it.’’
“It’s about jobs,” she said, pointing to data which showed more than 50 per cent of the municipality’s residents worked outside the area.
With more than 90 per cent of 800 submitters expressing support, Cr John Connor said he was surprised there was opposition to the project.
‘Built it and they will come’
Cr Hackett said the centre would bring “nothing but goodness” for the Macedon Ranges, tipped to generate $9 million of economic activity every year.
“We build it, and they will come,” he said.
“This is a world-class facility. There’s nothing that will rival it. We’re going to build the best, we’re going to build the greatest.”
Cr Sally Piper said she still didn’t believe it was the best project for the area, while Cr Jennifer Anderson was concerned the development of a business case would cost ratepayers a total of $25,000, about $1.17 each.
“That might not sound like much, but it’s money that council could spend somewhere else,” she said.
Cr Jukes said it was a small price to pay.
“I tried to buy a passionfruit in the supermarket the other day and it cost me $1.90,” he said.
“We need to be able to create the jobs needed to sustain our growing community.”
The allocation of council funds will be considered as part of the next budget process.
