Zoe Moffatt
The Victorian Goldfields UNESCO World Heritage bid has received a boost after the state government announced $3.8 million in the budget for championing Victoria’s heritage.
The heritage bid is a joint effort between 13 local governments, including Macedon Ranges, to help grow the global visitor market, driving sustainable tourism and jobs.
Victorian Goldfields tourism executive chair, councillor Chris Meddows-Taylor said a masterplan is being developed which features exciting world heritage journeys to disperse the increased visitors and dollars throughout the region.
“It will take in our smaller regional and rural communities meaning there are no winners and losers, only winners,” Cr Meddows-Taylor said
The heritage bid project said world heritage recognition is estimated to be worth $1 billion to the region over 10 years, with long-lasting benefits to be shared by communities and people across the region.
Macedon Ranges mayor Annette Death said it was pleasing to see more funding provided for the bid.
“This worldwide recognition would complement our own tourism initiatives here in the Macedon Ranges and our own unique heritage,” Cr Death said.
“We’re currently inviting submissions to help inform a revised heritage strategy.”
Greater Bendigo mayor Andrea Metcalf agreed and said strong collaboration between local communities, businesses and industry is needed to unlock the benefits.
“It will take everyone working together,” Cr Metcalf said. “The bid merely opens up the opportunities.”
“Importantly, Traditional Owners will be able to tell their own stories about the impact of the gold rush and share those with visitors in the ways they choose.
“We urge everyone to get involved in shaping an exciting, sustainable and prosperous future.”
Councils involved in the big include Ararat, Campaspe, Central Goldfields, Ballarat, Greater Bendigo, Golden Plains, Hepburn, Loddon, Macedon Ranges, Moorabool, Mount Alexander, Northern Grampians and Pyrenees.
Details: rb.gy/nug1o
