Community campaign seeks to improve Bellarine’s look, feel and function

A FORMER City of Greater Geelong councillor has reinvigorated his grassroots campaign to “protect, preserve and enhance” the quality of life for community members in townships across the Bellarine Peninsula.

Tom O’Connor, who served on the council between 2004 and 2008, has been advocating for safety and aesthetic improvements to the region for more than 10 years.

Now operating under the name The Bellarine Matters, Mr O’Connor is hoping to bring the community and city together under a united vision to make the area more attractive, provide for safe pedestrian traffic, and improve the flow of vehicles and bicycles while preserving the region’s unique natural features.

“This is a call to arms for the community,” he said.

A key focus of the campaign is the section of Murradoc Road between Portarlington Road and High Street, which has long drawn criticism from the Drysdale community for its lack of footpaths and open drains.

In addition to these improvements, Mr O’Connor wants to see the road widened, to allow additional room for cyclists and parallel parking, a lowered speed limit of 40km, and works done to enhance the area’s attractiveness, including the planting of trees.

“We want it to be safe for our children, safe for our grandchildren,” he said.

“We want it to be attractive to not only the community, but visitors as well, [and] consistent with the tourism strategy.

“The essence of it is the safety and attractiveness of Murradoc Road and the legacy it will leave behind for our kids.”

Mr O’Conoer believes that as Murradoc Road is the main thoroughfare between two main towns and Drysdale has been been tapped for investment, the surrounding area should likewise support the money that has been put into developments such as the Boronggook Drysdale Library and the North Bellarine Aquatic Centre, along with nearby businesses.

Securing safety and aesthetic improvements to Clifton Spring’s Tivoli Drive and supporting the growth of towns such as Portarlington to maximise their potential are also priorities of The Bellarine Matters.

As a first step, Mr O’Connor is inviting local residents, businesses and community groups who share The Bellarine Matters’ vision of improving “the look, the feel and the function” of their towns to get in touch.

To do so, email [email protected]