The push is on again to get an equine centre up and running in the Macedon Ranges.
Upper House Liberal MP Wendy Lovell has called on the state government to give Macedon Ranges council the $40,000 it needs to move forward with its plans to establish a purpose-built equine centre for dressage events and competition.
The council developed an equine strategy that included an international-standard indoor equestrian arena, and it also outlined a strategic direction for the equine sector for the five years ending this year.
Up to 160 hectares would be needed for the project, and a site has not been selected.
A feasibility study determined last year that the project would significantly benefit the local economy, but the plan received a mixed response from residents.
Macedon Ranges Residents Association [MRRA] objected to the proposal, labelling it an “unnecessary financial juggernaut”.
“We have six of nine councillors [who supported the proposal] prioritising economic empire-building, instead of responsible governance,” the association submission stated.
“Council pours more and more of our budget into big pet projects like this useless, expensive, over-the-top equine centre, while cutting back on what counts.”
But Macedon Ranges Equine Industry Network spokeswoman Tracey Robertson said the feasibility study had proved there was a demand from the industry and community.
“A large-scale equine centre would provide opportunities, not only for pleasure and competition riders, and another much needed all-weather venue for our pony clubs and adult riding clubs, but for the whole community,” she said.
“It will also attract more visitors to the region … and provide additional state-of-the-art facilities for non-equine pursuits, such as agricultural activities, trade shows; undercover or outdoor markets and other sporting events.”
Macedon Ranges council put up $25,000 for the business case, and sourced an additional $35,000 from the industry network and the federal government.
“Macedon Ranges council went away and secured significant funding [on its own]… and is hopeful that the government will provide this funding so it can proceed with the business case of this project,” Ms Lovell said.
Ms Lovell said that Macedon Ranges council’s equine strategy estimates the equine industry generates about $140 million annually to the local economy.
“The masterplan has been approved by council – the next steps to be taken include the development of the business case, which the minister has been aware of for almost 12 months now,” Ms Lovell said.
