About Council

History & Features

Golden Plains is a vibrant and progressive municipality situated between Geelong, Ballarat and Melbourne, offering residents and businesses access to city services while enjoying a country lifestyle.

The shire was established on 6 May 1994, incorporating the former shires of Bannockburn and Leigh and parts of the former shires of Grenville and Bunninyong.

Rich in gold mining history and character, the small towns and communities throughout the shire provide for a rural lifestyle within easy reach of the state capital and the two largest regional cities.

While the shire has a strong tradition of wool and grain growing, intensive animal farming, particularly poultry and pigs, are becoming increasingly common. Growth in the home-based business sector provides healthy employment opportunities and is the largest employer in the shire.

The Golden Plains region is fast becoming known for being home to many gourmet food producers and the Moorabool Valley in the shire's east is home to a well established wine industry.

Natural beauty is also a feature with the Brisbane Ranges National Park, Enfield State Forest and Moorabool River popular for their wildflower displays, koalas, scenic drives, walks and picnic grounds, offering day-trippers an enjoyable tourism experience.

Golden Plains covers an area of 2705 square kilometres with a populations exceeding 17,250.

The shire boasts a very active group of volunteers involved in community service, sport, recreation and cultural activities. There are many opportunities to become involved in your local community.