Campaspe Shire Council endorsed the Lockington & District Place-Based Plan (PBP) at the meeting on 15 July 2025. The plan includes the town of Lockington and its surrounding district, including Bamawm, Bamawm Extension, Kotta, Pine Grove, Milloo, Diggora and Tennyson.
Campaspe Mayor Daniel Mackrell emphasised the importance of tailored planning for towns within the region:
"This plan sets out what matters most to the people who live here - what they value, what they want to protect, and where they see opportunities for the future,"
"Every town is different, and that's exactly why these plans matter. They give each community the chance to focus on what makes their place special. For Lockington and the surrounding district, this plan captures that local pride and turns it into a clear, practical vision for the years ahead." Cr Mackrell said.
The Lockington Place-Based Plan committee was appointed in April 2024, and worked with the community, consultants and Council to develop the plan. In doing so, the plan details how Lockington & District wish to see the area develop, detailing actions aligned with the vision of the community.
Priorities for the area were identified through engagement activities including interviews, pop ups, a survey, and an activity with primary school students. Promoted, led and facilitated by representatives of the Place Based Plan Committee and Campaspe Shire Council, with support from the consultants at Cred Consulting, these activities attracted over 780 interactions with participants.
Lockington and District's vision for the future is:
Lockington & District is a determined, resilient, proactive, vibrant and connected community where young and older generations thrive together and are empowered to contribute to a brighter future.
We are dedicated to enhancing our natural environment, supporting local business and agriculture, celebrating our unique history and supporting the health of our community.
The PBP includes six central action themes, including:
- Improving community wellbeing through recreation opportunities and facilities
- Enhance Lockington's look and feel through plantings, public art and signage
- Ensuring the safety of pedestrians, cyclists and drivers in the area
- Protecting and enhancing the natural environment
- Supporting local business and tourism
- Bolstering events in the area that welcome and attract those from the district and beyond
PBP Committee Co-Chair Joseph Holloway expressed his delight regarding the plan's endorsement
"The committee is extremely excited for the Lockington and District PBP to be endorsed by council, allowing the community to begin implementing the plan.
"It has been a very rewarding and exciting process, working with the community through pop up sessions and community engagement events.
"The committee hopes that we have been able to shape the community suggestions and input into an exciting adaptable plan for everyone to work towards implementation over the next period of time," Mr Holloway said.
PBP Committee Co-Chair Wendy Sims echoed Mr Holloways sentiments.
"We are very excited that Council is backing the Lockington and District Place Based Plan so we can continue to move forward with its actions," said Mrs Sims.
Cr Mackrell acknowledged the community's efforts and shared how Council will continue to support them as they bring the plan to life.
"We're incredibly thankful to everyone who played a part in shaping this plan, from the committee members to the many residents who shared their ideas and experiences. Lockington and the surrounding district have always been places where people look out for each other and take pride in where they live. This plan captures that spirit and turns it into action.
"While the plan belongs to the people of Lockington and District, Council is committed to being a supportive partner, and help to connect projects with funding, offer guidance, and work together to turn these priorities into real outcomes." Cr Mackrell said.
