"Kyabram is a welcoming, inclusive and progressive community that embraces modern regional living."
That's the vision for the town of Kyabram, developed by the people who call Kyabram home.
This vision statement is at the heart of the Kyabram Place-Based Plan, a four-year plan outlining key priorities of the community to make their town even more liveable, inclusive, adaptable and resilient.
Campaspe Mayor Cr Chrissy Weller said that while development of the Kyabram Place-Based Plan had been supported by Council, it remains Kyabram's Plan.
"Since early 2020, Council staff have worked closely with the Kyabram Development Committee and wider Kyabram community to develop the plan using a Place-Based Planning approach that aims to create distinctive and sustainable places," Cr Weller said.
Supporting the Kyabram vision are four key focus areas that will guide decision-making and action. These are:
- Health, welfare and social wellbeing
- Industry, education and training
- Natural and built environment
- Retail and tourism
Kyabram Development Committee Chair, Tania Chiswell, said some of the key projects identified within the plan include improvements to local assets such as the off-leash dog parks and regional parks, and development of a rail trail.
"The plan is a true reflection of Kyabram's long-term strategic needs and ambitions, and a solid pathway forward to maintain momentum and achieve identified projects. The plan also aligns with regional strategic priorities and issues as identified by government bodies and peak agencies," Ms Chiswell said.
"We now want to get the wider community involved, set up smaller groups to drive projects. This way residents get to work on projects they have a particular interest in, reporting back to the Committee."
Council has budgeted $15,000 in 2021-22 towards the seed funding of projects identified within the Kyabram Place Based Plan. Staff will continue work with the Kyabram Development Committee to take advantage of funding advocacy opportunities as they arise to bring identified projects to fruition.
"I commend the Kyabram community who have shown outstanding commitment, leadership and resilience to develop the Kyabram Place-Based Plan," Cr Weller said.
"Despite the challenges of the pandemic, the focus of the community never wavered. There was extraordinary dedication and effort shown by the Kyabram Development Committee to gather as many opinions and ideas as possible from local residents. In the end, more than 900 local people had their say on the future of the town."
To view or download a copy of the Kyabram Place-Based Plan, visit Council's website (Place Based Planning).
