By PETER DOUGLAS
WHEN it comes to promoting good health, one Olinda action group believes government representatives are barking up the right tree.
The Olinda Golf Course Community Action Group (OGCAG) says it’s delighted over the community consultation regarding the now-vacant Olinda Golf Course.
The 29-hectare land is presently being used as a dog-walking and recreation area, which has pleased the group considerably.
Presently, discussions are being held between the Victorian Government, Parks Victoria, Yarra Ranges Shire and the community in regards to its future use.
But action group co-ordinator Jenny Oxer said the participation rate proved the future of the land should be reserved for community use.
“It’s such a wonderful space for dog owners, where they can get away from the roads and enjoy the outdoors,” she said.
“It’s been great for those who want to connect with their community, and network and make new friends.
“There aren’t many other opportunities to do this in the nearby region,” she said.
Ms Oxer said the group formed not long after learning the space had become vacant.
She said many in the group wanted to ensure the community had a voice, when shaping the direction of the land.
“The land is absolutely gorgeous and has been described as a ‘breath of heaven’,” she said.
“We want it used for environmentally friendly recreational facilities.”
Ms Oxer said it wasn’t just pet owners who were benefiting from the space, with activities such as geocaching becoming extremely popular.
Going forward, she has even envisioned a redevelopment of the former golf course cafe, which she would like to see become a pet-friendly cafe.
OGCAG has about 50 people on its mailing list.
To date, Ms Oxer said the group had been delighted with the efforts of the government representatives they had worked with, in particular Member for Monbulk James Merlino.
