Meander Valley Council shares outcomes of community engagement workshops

The insights gathered are compiled in a Community Strategic Plan Community Consultation Report, which will inform the development of a renewed Meander Valley Community Strategic Plan 2024-2034.

The Community Strategic Plan, renewed every ten years, provides a roadmap for both the Council and community, guiding decisions and actions over the next decade.

Meander Valley Council’s comprehensive community engagement spanned a diverse and wide range of its community, including businesses, service providers, and all ages of community members.

Participants were asked to consider four themes to identify priority focus areas for the strategy: Our people, our place, our future, and how we communicate.

These efforts ensured that they captured a wide range of perspectives and deep insights from every corner of the community.

“Engaging with the community has reinforced the diverse and vibrant nature of Meander Valley. The insights we’ve gathered will ensure our renewed Community Strategic Plan is inclusive, forward-thinking, and truly representative of the voices within our community.” Meander Valley Mayor Wayne Johnston said.

Mayor Johnston highlighted the significance of community input in shaping the final Community Strategic Plan 2024-2034.

“Our community’s insights are crucial in helping us create a plan that truly reflects the needs and aspirations of our residents,” Mayor Johnston said.

“The feedback we received highlights the strength of our community spirit and the shared vision for our future.” Mayor Johnston said.

During the consultation, residents shared their thoughts on the Meander Valley community’s strengths and values.

“We’re always community-minded and community-spirited. If you don’t get in and do things for the community, nothing happens.” said one resident who participated in a consultation workshop.

“It’s a very accepting community. There are all types of people… they’re welcoming and inclusive. It doesn’t matter what you look like, what you do, or where you come from – they’ll just accept you in.” Another resident said.

The Community Strategic Plan Report has identified five ‘strategic priorities’, informed by the community feedback, that will guide the Council and wider community in decision-making and providing a clear direction for the community’s future.

These proposed strategic priorities are:

1. Growing a diverse, unified and empowered community.
2. Honouring our natural environment.
3. Creating a well-developed built environment.
4. Investing in infrastructure that facilitate connection.
5. Providing responsible governance and valuing our local economy.

The Community Strategic Plan Consultation Report is now available on our website and we encourage all community members to read the report and provide feedback.

This input will be instrumental in finalising the proposed Meander Valley Community Strategic Plan 2024-2034, will be published in draft form for an additional round of community feedback before being approved by Council later this year.