Golden Plains Shire Council welcomes the announcement of $3.8 million in the Victorian Budget for championing Victoria’s outstanding heritage, with the funding set to boost the Victorian Goldfields UNESCO World Heritage bid.
In partnership with 13 Councils across the Goldfields region, including Golden Plains Shire Council, the World Heritage bid campaign aims to raise the profile of the Central Victorian Goldfields, accelerate regional recovery and provide long-term economic, social and cultural benefits for the region.
World Heritage listing of a limited number of globally significant sites will deliver real and long-lasting benefits that will be shared by communities and people right across the Goldfields region.
World Heritage will bring world-wide recognition and attention, is a proven, powerful catalyst for unlocking transformative opportunities for local communities and is estimated to be worth $1 billion to the region over 10 years. Connecting the world with the Victorian Goldfields will grow our global visitor market, driving sustainable tourism and jobs.
Meanwhile, a targeted tourism investment strategy will start delivering benefits in the short-term.
Chair of the Victorian Goldfields Tourism Executive Cr Chris Meddows-Taylor explains that a tourism masterplan currently being developed features exciting World Heritage Journeys which will disperse the increased visitors – and visitor dollars – throughout the region.
“It will take in our smaller regional and rural communities meaning there are no winners and losers, only winners.”
Golden Plains Shire Mayor Cr Brett Cunningham welcomed the announcement of the funding in the Victorian State Budget.
“This announcement is a fantastic opportunity to progress the World Heritage Bid and encourage tourism within Regional Victoria and Golden Plains. Council is delighted to work in partnership with our neighbouring Goldfields Councils to lead the way to progress this incredible initiative to the next stage.
“This funding announcement is an important catalyst for unlocking opportunities for the communities we serve, the businesses we work with and our broader communities, now and into the future.”
To learn more about the World Heritage Bid, visit: goldfieldsworldheritage.com.au