Community to shape mineral springs master plan

The Andrews Labor Government is drafting Victoria’s Mineral Spring Master Plan 2023-2032 and is asking locals and community members to provide their input.

The 10-year strategic Master Plan will ensure Victoria’s public mineral springs remain safe, continue to support local communities, attract new visitors and create a greater understanding of the cultural importance mineral springs have for Traditional Owners.

The Master Plan will also aim to highlight the importance of understanding the history of the springs and be a helpful guide for future management and investment.

The document will include four objectives that support:

• Traditional Owners

• Health and water quality

• Land manager operations

• Mineral spring aspirations These objectives will set service expectations and investment priorities across Victoria’s publicly accessible mineral springs, which remain significant natural tourism destinations across the state.

Victorians are encouraged to view and send feedback about the draft Master Plan at www.engage.vic.gov.au/mineral-springs-masterplan before 26 June 2023.

The Mineral Spring Master Plan 2023-2032 is expected to be completed by the end of this year.

Quotes attributable to Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas
"People travel from all parts of Victoria to our region to visit the mineral springs and we want to make sure they are supported and protected now and into the future."

"I encourage everyone in our community to have their say on the draft master plan so we can continue to improve the management of these beautiful and amazing natural spaces."

Quotes attributable to Minister for Environment Ingrid Stitt
"The Mineral Spring Master Plan 2023-2032 will ensure these precious spaces continue to be safe and accessible for all Victorians."

"Natural occurring mineral springs are a valuable resource, which is why it is important for Victorians to have the opportunity to provide feedback on this decade long strategy."