It’s easy for locals to take it for granted but anyone with children knows just how fortunate we are to have such an asset.

We have a visionary to thank for Lake Pertobe. In 1975, the city’s engineer Ed Johnson presented a plan to the council entitled The Lake Pertobe Wildlife and Tourism Development Scheme.

It was a bold, ambitious plan to transform a stinking swamp that had been an embarrassment to the city for generations into an attractive asset.

After being given the go-ahead, it took five years for the massive project of dredging, canal building and construction of islands, causeways and bridges to be completed.

But the effort was worth it. Lake Pertobe has become the place where memories of generations were created.

The attractions have changed over time – some for the better, and some, largely because of public liability fears, for the not so good.

This week Warrnambool City Council announced it would develop a masterplan to improve and refresh the popular space.

The council is calling for public input and wants ideas and suggestions thrown up for discussion.

Within hours of the masterplan process being published, residents took to social media with some suggestions.

Developing a water park, adding a chair lift to Cannon Hill, more adult activities and a miniature railway were just some of the opportunities.

This is the kind of thinking we need. Lake Pertobe is a special place but time doesn’t stand still.

The council’s decision to seek community input is most welcome. But it needs to be careful it doesn’t raise expectations of massive change too high.

Budgetary, legal and environmental restrictions need to be clearly defined from the outset so those participating aren’t left disappointed with the result.

Those passionate about our community have a golden chance to shape the future.

We must embrace the opportunity and hope future generations will look around and applaud our foresight, just like we do now 41 years after Mr Johnson presented his plan that has stood the test of time.