Game-changing Goornong group to grow

APPLICATIONS are open to join the Goornong Community Reference Group, a working panel established in 2020 to help the City of Greater Bendigo shape its Goornong Structure Plan over the next two decades.

The structure plan will detail a long-term strategy aiming to guide change in Goornong that respects the existing character and qualities of the town.

It will identify growth opportunities and make recommendations that respond to Goornong’s future needs including facilities, services and infrastructure to support the growing community.

Reference group members take part in meetings, share community perspectives, and collaborate with City officers to inform and shape the developing vision.

City of Greater Bendigo strategic planning manager Anthony Petherbridge said the plan project was moving to an important stage, requiring significant input from reference group members.

“As work begins on drafting (it), the City is inviting more community members to join the reference group,” Mr Petherbridge said.

“Expressions of interest are now open, and I encourage people who are interested in the future of Goornong to apply.

“There is capacity to expand the reference group to include six additional members.

“Most of the technical studies that inform the Goornong Structure Plan are progressing well and the project is moving to a critical next stage.”

Mr Petherbridge said the reference group is important because it brings the community, landowners, businesses and organisations together to develop an achievable plan that will guide Goornong over time.

Applications – which can be submitted on the Let’s Talk Greater Bendigo website – close on Monday 16 March.