General News
2 February, 2023
Bush access bid concern
SITES included in the Goldfields World Heritage bid should not lead to a blanket ban on use, Cr Dan Straub told last week’s Loddon Shire Council meeting. Councillors were told the World Heritage Bid was not seeking a blanket protection of public...
SITES included in the Goldfields World Heritage bid should not lead to a blanket ban on use, Cr Dan Straub told last week’s Loddon Shire Council meeting.
Councillors were told the World Heritage Bid was not seeking a blanket protection of public land in the region but instead will focus on 10 to 20 specific sites across the 13 council areas.
“I hope these words will be true,” Cr Straub said.
He said he would continue to have reservations on whether the bid would lead to removing access to areas for bush user groups.
In his report, chief executive officer Lincoln Fitzgerald said an economic analysis showed a $25 million boost to the region if the bid was successful.
Council re-affirmed its participation in the bid. Cr Gavan Holt said the “minimalist motion” did not “preclude us from changing out minds”.