Traffic management measures and extra amenities will be in place throughout April to support residents and safely guide visitors eager to witness the Macedon Ranges' stunning autumn leaves.
Around this time every year, crowds are drawn to towns such as Macedon and Mount Macedon that boast an abundance of colourful, leafy trees. It is a common belief for many people and cultures that catching a falling autumn leaf will bring good luck.
This influx of visitors provides a welcome boost to local businesses, however Council is equally committed to the ongoing support of residents during this busy period, to minimise disruption and protect the natural environment that makes the Macedon Ranges so special.
In collaboration with communities, authorities, local businesses and open gardens, temporary measures which will be in place from 9am–5pm on weekends and public holidays from 1-30 April include:
- the closure of Honour Avenue to traffic between Mount Macedon Road and Waterfalls Road, to maintain traffic flow along Mount Macedon Road and ensure visitor safety
- dedicated visitor parking close to Honour Avenue and Centennial Park
- a hop-on, hop-off shuttle bus service ($5 per adult) that will run from the visitor hub at Centennial Park to the open gardens, festival events, and Mount Macedon township
- additional amenities and a visitor information booth at Centennial Park
- speed reductions to 40km/hr and "No U-turn" repeater signs along Mount Macedon Road, as well as "no standing" signage on one side of Devonshire Lane.
Council will provide vehicle passes to support residents impacted by road closures, while signage will also be available for residents to install on fences, advising visitors of private property (no access) and to keep driveways clear.
Visitors will also be encouraged to experience other activities in the shire throughout April as part of the Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival. The festival program includes a range of foodie experiences, tipple trails, farmers markets, artisan workshops and more across various towns in the shire.
Council's CEO Bernie O'Sullivan said the shire-wide festival was initially implemented to help entice the autumn visitors to explore other parts of the shire and support more community events and local businesses.
"The festival is now in its third year and has proven to be extremely successful in providing a boost to our local businesses and community," he said. "In 2022 alone, the festival contributed an estimated $1.6 million to our visitor economy."
"I'd like to thank our community for supporting the event, and to reassure residents that we have taken feedback on board and implemented measures to better support this year's festivities."
More information:
- Council's autumn leaves management plan
- Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival website for general festival information.
