Planning for sustainable horticulture

Published on 24 July 2017

Sunraysia residents are being asked for their feedback on a study which aims to identify factors that impact on the sustainability of horticulture in our region.  

Mildura Rural City Council is working on the Horticulture Sustainability Development Strategy (HSDS) to investigate how horticulture land use can be sustainable into the future.

The study looks at land that predominantly takes in smaller farming properties in parts of Merbein, Koorlong, Birdwoodton, Cardross and Red Cliffs.

An essential tool in developing this strategy is a Scoping Study, designed to look at innovative solutions to support and develop land within these areas to ensure sustainable horticulture.

A draft findings paper has now been released, providing an early insight into some of the initiatives that have been earmarked so far in the study, as well as seeking early feedback from the broader community.

The Scoping Study is examining factors including planning issues, water and infrastructure, environment and land capability, social and demographic issues, economics and market outlook.

Key stakeholders, such as the Sunraysia Rejuvenation Project Committee – which is a collaborative body set up by the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP), and Regional Development Victoria, are also providing input into the project.

Mildura Rural City Councillor for Economic Development and Tourism Mark Eckel encouraged Sunraysia residents to provide their feedback.

“At this early stage in development of the Scoping Study, this is an important opportunity to not only find out more about some of the issues involved, but ensure any ideas within the community are included in the study,” Cr Eckel said.

“This will help us gather as much information as possible and provide direction on a way forward.

“This study will also investigate how we can capitalise on the advantages offered by the recently completed Sunraysia Modernisation Project, which offers significant benefits over the open channel irrigation system.”

“Once completed, the Scoping Study will help us develop options for inclusion in the final strategy.”

Copies of the draft findings paper are now available on the Have Your Say page of Council’s website or from Council’s Deakin and Madden Avenue Service Centres.

Written submissions should be addressed to Coordinator Strategic Planning Peter Douglas and can be emailed to planning.services@mildura.vic.gov.au or mailed to Mildura Rural City Council PO Box 105 Mildura, Victoria 3502.

Submissions can also be delivered in person at Council’s Deakin or Madden Avenue Service Centres. Submissions must be submitted by Friday, 11 August.

For more information contact Council’s Strategic Planning team on (03) 5018 8100.

Media enquiries 
Ben Piscioneri
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e) ben.piscioneri@mildura.vic.gov.au