Council has received over 100 submissions to the Delatite Valley Plan and are now assessing each one to see how we might improve the Delatite Valley Plan, based on this important and highly valued feedback.

However, we have found that there is still a level of misunderstanding about what is included in the Plan, and we wanted to take some time to help clear some of this up.

There have been comments about future developments at Mt Buller, with additional worker beds being built with taxpayer money. Mt Buller is managed by Alpine Resorts Victoria (ARV) and is not part of Mansfield Shire or included in the Delatite Valley Plan.

There has also been a lot of commentary about the Mirimbah Park Masterplan, with development of caravan and camping areas, as well as other accommodation options. Mirimbah Park is within the area managed by ARV. It's not part of Mansfield Shire, and it's not included in the Delatite Valley Plan. Council is aware that ARV undertook some initial engagement on a plan for this area in 2022, however Council is not aware of any developments that are currently planned. It appears some community members may be drawing conclusions from the work undertaken by ARV in 2022, and making statements that these projects are now being developed.

For more information relating to developments on Mt Buller or the Mirimbah Park Masterplan and any projects which may be planned as a result, please contact ARV on 03) 5777 6077 or at info@alpineresorts.vic.gov.au

Currently, in the Mansfield Planning Scheme, there is a large area around Sawmill Settlement and Alpine Ridge identified as a “possible location for residential and tourist accommodation” and shows where the current township boundaries are located. These maps are included in the Delatite Valley Plan for context to help people understand what the current controls are for the area. The Delatite Valley Plan actually proposes to reduce this area and direct it towards tourism activities, in response to the high bushfire risk in this area. The Delatite Valley Plan does not aim to create any additional high density housing blocks or any rezoning in this area, as has been asserted in some local social media.

Council has approved a range of developments that have been subject to the planning process and have obtained relevant permits as required. It is noted that most of the residential development approved for Mansfield Shire is centred on or around the Mansfield township. The Delatite Valley Plan is not proposing to create another major town in the municipality.

We've noted that comments have been made about the Activating Lake Eildon Masterplan and potential impacts on the municipality. This plan was completed in 2020 and applies to land around Lake Eildon in both Mansfield and Murrindindi Shires. No projects identified in this plan are located within the Delatite Valley.

Thank you to everyone who has contributed and provided feedback to the draft Delatite Valley Plan so far.

The closing of engagement for the draft plan has now been extended until the the 31 August.

We've had an outpouring of community responses so far, and want to hear more. Submit your feedback by completing our survey here, or by emailing strategic.planning@mansfield.vic.gov.au

Share your feedback on the draft plan in person by joining Council staff for a community workshop or drop-in session. You'll have the opportunity ask about the Delatite Valley Plan and share your thoughts in a structured environment alongside the community.

The online and Merrijig Workshops will include the same content, so no need to come to both.

Register for the online workshop here.

Missed out on the drop-in session and Merrijig town walk?

Join our online engagement session to share your ideas and speak with our team about the Delatite Valley Plan. Council officers will facilitate a group conversation where participants can set out a community vision for the valley.

Register here

For information or enquiries, email strategic.planning@mansfield.vic.gov.au or call (03) 5775 8555.

The Share Your Vision survey has been extended and will now close on Friday 23 August.

Thank you to everyone who contributed their ideas already.

You can share your ideas in person by joining Council staff for a walk through Merrijig and a community drop-in session.

We want to hear your concerns and your vision for the valley's future. You'll have the opportunity ask about the Delatite Valley Plan and to point out opportunities or issues on-site.

There's no need to register, simply arrive on the day.

For information or enquiries, email strategic.planning@mansfield.vic.gov.au or call (03) 5775 8555.

The Share Your Vision survey is now open until 9 August 2024.

We're asking about your experiences living, working or staying in the Delatite Valley, and your vision for its future. Your feedback will guide Council staff in drafting the Delatite Valley Plan.

What would you like to see the Delatite Valley become over the next 20 years?

The Delatite Valley offers a unique lifestyle and recreational opportunities at the gateway to some of Victoria's most iconic natural landscapes.

A recent surge in growth and development is only predicted to grow, with the Shire's population forecast to increase by more than 50% by 2042. Careful planning is needed to manage this growth while maintaining the community's wellbeing.

The Delatite Valley Plan will serve as a guide, outlining the community's vision and providing a road map for sustainable development that helps the district prosper.

The community's voice

We want this plan to be guided by you - the community. Whether you're a long-time resident, a frequent visitor, or a business owner, the Delatite Valley Plan is an opportunity for you to influence the district's future.

Your insights and experiences will help Council create a plan that addresses the issues most important to you. A plan that respects our rich history while embracing new opportunities and change.

What would you like to see the Delatite Valley become over the next 20 years?

How to get involved

Council is now seeking community input to develop a first draft of the Delatite Valley Plan. There are several ways you can get involved:

• Online survey: Let us hear your experience of the Delatite Valley and what you'd like to see.
• Town hall meetings: Join in-depth discussions about the district and share your ideas.
• Merrijig Town Walk: Come on a walk with Council staff and help us identify key issues on the ground.
• Online Workshops: Share your ideas and hear from others in interactive sessions.

Details of each opportunity will be made available as they are scheduled. You can follow this project page to receive updates.

For more information or any enquiries, email strategic.planning@mansfield.vic.gov.au or call (03) 5775 8555.

We look forward to hearing from you.