By PETER DOUGLAS
THE Dandenong Ranges community now has the chance to speak up on the future of the former Olinda Golf Course.
The Yarra Ranges Council and Parks Victoria are inviting the public to contribute submissions towards the Olinda Precinct Plan.
Submissions will help shape a long-term strategy for the prime recreation site, with feedback used to develop an initial concept plan that will be released for further community discussion in coming months.
The overall aim is to strengthen the walking connections and the adjoining Olinda township, with a view to provide recreational and tourism benefits for local residents and the wider Victorian community.
Yarra Ranges mayor Jason Callanan encouraged the local community to get involved with the consultation process.
“Residents of the hills district have a stake in the future of this site,” Cr Callanan said.
“This is a unique opportunity to revitalise and shape Olinda, and to ensure the precinct plan is developed in a way that better connects the township,” he said.
“I strongly encourage everyone to get involved, because we want to ensure this area is here for future generations to enjoy.”
The 29-hectare former golf course has been vacant for many years, after the former tenant defaulted on their lease.
Since then, the site has been under the management of Parks Victoria.
Last year, Victorian Minister for the Environment, Climate Change and Water Lisa Neville and Deputy Premier James Merlino met to discuss the future of the site.
At the time, Ms Neville said the initiative would be valuable for the community.
“Following interest by the local community to use part of the site for an off-lead dog walking area and new sports oval, Parks Victoria is proposing to annexe three hectares of the site for these uses,” she said.
Meanwhile, the public is reminded there are some limitations to the possibilities.
The site is reserved as recreational land, so any alternate use of the site will need to provide the community with a valuable recreational or tourism asset that enhanced the natural and environmental appeal of the area.
A proportion of the Olinda Golf Course (about 11ha) is also designated as a strategic fuel break to the Olinda township, which will be retained.
Parks Victoria district manager Craig Bray said this was a rare opportunity to re-invent a public recreational space.
“It’s important that the community helps to determine the best possible options for the long-term benefit of the local community,” he said.
A pop-up community information tent will be located at the old barbecue area near the former golf course car park from noon to 4pm on Saturday and Sunday 19 and 20 March.
Those unable to attend the information days can visit www.parks.vic.gov.au for more information, or submit your ideas to olindaplan@parks.vic.gov.au
