Residents across Moyne have the chance to have their say on the future of the shire's open spaces.
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At their monthly meeting in Mortlake last week, Moyne Shire councillors voted to put the draft open space strategy out for public submissions.
Council officers believe when completed, the strategy presents a 15-year vision, providing advocacy and investment for actions.
Moyne Shire mayor Cr Daniel Meade said the draft strategy considers public feedback given during previous consultation.
He said that feedback pointed to the high value put on the shire's open spaces by residents.
"Our open spaces and natural features are not only integral to the lifestyle and wellbeing of our community, but they also provide benefits to the environment, promote tourism and boost economic growth," Cr Meade said.
"Council understands the importance of maintaining and enhancing its existing open spaces to support community activities and events, and create an attractive place to visit and enjoy."
Cr Meade said the draft strategy contained priorities for the shire's open spaces.
These include new and improved cycle and walking paths, more spaces for youth activities, improved picnic areas and better processes for the management, maintenance and conservation of bushland in the shire.
Core open spaces in the shire include recreation parklands and gardens and sporting fields and outdoor courts.
Due to their limited access to the general community, private or commercial land and facilities have been excluded from the draft strategy.
The summary of the draft open space strategy presented to councillors said residents put a high value on public open spaces.
Resident feedback said such spaces provide safe environments to exercise in, to wlak their dogs and to have interaction with family and friends.
Residents also value the flora and fauna that inhabit these areas.
Coastal reserves, including beaches were also important to residents, as were national parks and other conservation areas.
"Our open spaces provide valuable opportunities for social interaction, recreation, leisure and wellbeing uses," Cr Meade said.
"The central function of the strategy is to conserve and protect these assets, whilst meeting the needs of the community.
"Council is committed to effectively engaging with community members and is now urging the community to visit council's website and provide feedback."
Public submissions on the draft strategy are open until August 24.