Community members and local businesses are invited to learn more about the Victorian Goldfields World Heritage Bid at an upcoming information session in Maryborough.
The information session will be held on Thursday 28 May, 2 to 3.30pm at the Maryborough Community Hub, 48 Burns Street, Maryborough.
The session will be hosted by the Victorian Goldfields World Heritage Bid Project Team and will provide an update on the bid, what World Heritage listing means for the region, and how it could benefit communities and businesses across the Central Goldfields.
Attendees will have the opportunity to hear the latest developments, ask questions, and take part in a discussion that will help shape the future of our region.
Central Goldfields Shire Mayor Cr Ben Green said the information session was a great opportunity for our community to better understand a project that's been decades in the making.
"Local communities here in the Central Goldfields first championed World Heritage recognition more than 30 years ago. The goal has always been to honour our goldrush story and ensure regional communities share in the benefits.
"After years of advocacy from community groups, councils, tourism organisations and experts, the Victorian Government is now leading the bid in partnership with councils and regional stakeholders. The bid is progressing well, and this session will help explain what that means for us locally.
"A quick drive through our towns shows the incredible heritage we live among — architecture and streetscapes we often take for granted. This bid is about recognising that story and unlocking new opportunities for tourism, investment and pride of place.
"It's natural for people to wonder what World Heritage listing means for their business, group or daily life. This session is a great chance to get clarity and understand the local benefits.
"We're looking forward to taking a closer look at what is an exciting project for the Central Goldfields Shire."
Local tourism operators Gillian and Warren Tattersall said "As the owners of Bristol Hill Motor Inn in Maryborough — right in the heart of the Central Victorian Goldfields — we are constantly welcoming visitors who come to the region to prospect for gold, often with detectors in hand.
"Many of these experienced prospectors return regularly and proudly share their finds with us at the end of each day.
"Just this week we've hosted guests from Melbourne, rural Victoria, South Australia, and will shortly be welcoming a returning visitor from Texas, USA, who will be on their third trip.
"From our perspective, the Victorian Goldfields World Heritage Bid has enormous potential to further boost tourism across our region.
"Increased national and international recognition would bring more visitors, longer stays, and greater economic benefits for local businesses like ours."
The session is free to attend, and light refreshments will be provided. To register visit the Eventbrite page: Victorian Goldfields World Heritage Bid Information Session- Maryborough Tickets, Thursday 28 May • 14 - 15:30 | Eventbrite
