By Peter Douglas
YARRA Ranges Council has taken a step forward to help preserve a picturesque parcel of land in the Lysterfield Valley, which had been proposed for development as a golf course.
At its 28 July meeting, council moved to request authorisation from the Minister of Planning to allow re-subdivision of the land into five lots.
The land in question is located at 220 and 230 Glenfern Road, and 465 Lysterfield Road
The Lysterfield Valley is an important part of the Dandenong Ranges not only because of its historical significance, but its tourism role due to the land acting as a visual entry point into the region.
Ward councillor, Cr Mike Clarke, said he was upset when suggestions of a golf course were raised.
“I felt what was being requested went against the feel of the land and community,” Cr Clarke said.
“This is a really important agricultural piece of land on the urban fringe; it helps the city-dwellers remember where their food comes from.
“There is strong historical connection with farmers, as the land was the first in Australia to see the introduction of Ayrshire cattle.”
Cr Clarke said local landowners were becoming frustrated, in what had become a two-year process.
The site is located at the eastern end of the Lysterfield Valley, which is presently owned by three parties.
Site specific controls had enabled the use and development of about a 300 ha, 27-hole golf course, with ancillary club house.
Melbourne Water has expressed their in-principle support to council over this decision.
Cr Noel Cliff said he was pleased there had finally been some movement on this issue.
“I’m really pleased to support this … this has been going on forever,” Cr Cliff said.
Cr Cliff said the visual effect of the property should not be underestimated.
“When you come up along Glenfern Road, the views along there to your right, or to the south, are spectacular.
“Right down into the valley, you’re just going to see primary production, and that’s fantastic.”
