A healthy community

The vision is excellent. The key features for me are an Aquatic Centre that meets the needs of all children as swimming is a vital skill as well as recreational activity. It is a way of keeping teenagers fit and socially engaged. It should also meet the needs of the elderly, the disabled and those needing rehabilitation. An indoor heated pool benefits everyone in the Mansfield Shire.

In terms of infrastructure planning, some things need to be considered right now while housing development is surging ahead. Walking and bike paths need to be included by developers so that there is access to all parts of the township without the need for a car. Children should be encouraged to ride bikes and be able to walk safely, crossing as few major roads as possible. This is particularly important in a town that has a severe shortage of properly surfaced footpaths