Bacchus Marsh deserves better – where is the civic pride?

As someone who has visited and admired many towns across Victoria, I’m disheartened by the current state of Bacchus Marsh.

Compared to places like Yarrawonga, Mildura, and Seymour – all of which boast tidy streets, vibrant gardens, and a clear sense of community pride – Bacchus Marsh feels neglected.

This isn’t a criticism of residents, many of whom care deeply about their homes and neighbourhoods. But it is a call to the Moorabool Shire Council to step up and lead by example.

Civic pride starts at the top. When a town looks cared for, it sets the tone for how residents, businesses, and visitors feel and behave within it.

Why not launch a Nature Strip Competition or a Town Garden Challenge? These are low-cost, high-impact ways to encourage community participation.

Celebrate well-kept gardens, native planting, or creative landscaping. Offer incentives, recognition, or sponsorships – real estate companies and garden clubs would have good reason to get behind such an initiative.

Council could also engage local groups to help beautify shared spaces, and promote volunteer clean-up days or planting drives.

Small efforts like these build pride, connection, and a sense of ownership.

Bacchus Marsh has so much potential.

Let’s start treating it like a town we’re proud of.

Margaret Murray, concerned former resident.