Pride in Wonthaggi was apparent at a recent series of workshops to discuss the future of the town.
By Terri Allen
Between August and November community representatives met with Bass Coast Shire staff in workshops to discuss Wonthaggi – where the town stands today, what makes it a great place and how to build on community strengths into the future.
We workshopped to put forward our own viewpoints, looked at 12 council documents (including the Wonthaggi/Dalyston structure plans, Wonthaggi Recreation Reserve Masterplan and the Wonthaggi Secondary College Masterplan), had vigorous discussions, walked the CBD precinct, came up with a list of future priorities and presented our findings to the councillors (past and present).
Discussion and ideas ranged widely, looking at what we have and how we could build on and improve it.
Emerging themes were pride in Wonthaggi, a safe town to move and walk around in, building our understanding of community needs/decision making, a focus on infrastructure , delivering strong tourism services, recreating our sense of identity, attracting business, growing employment, providing jobs for young people, and enlivening our town spirit.
Thanks to facilitator Keith Greaves and strategic planning co-ordinator Chris Wightman, this was a successful and worthwhile venture. Now to see what results from the workshops.
Between August and November community representatives met with Bass Coast Shire staff in workshops to discuss Wonthaggi – where the town stands today, what makes it a great place and how to build on community strengths into the future.
We workshopped to put forward our own viewpoints, looked at 12 council documents (including the Wonthaggi/Dalyston structure plans, Wonthaggi Recreation Reserve Masterplan and the Wonthaggi Secondary College Masterplan), had vigorous discussions, walked the CBD precinct, came up with a list of future priorities and presented our findings to the councillors (past and present).
Discussion and ideas ranged widely, looking at what we have and how we could build on and improve it.
Emerging themes were pride in Wonthaggi, a safe town to move and walk around in, building our understanding of community needs/decision making, a focus on infrastructure , delivering strong tourism services, recreating our sense of identity, attracting business, growing employment, providing jobs for young people, and enlivening our town spirit.
Thanks to facilitator Keith Greaves and strategic planning co-ordinator Chris Wightman, this was a successful and worthwhile venture. Now to see what results from the workshops.