Everyone a winner in Goldfields region
Published on 29 May 2023
The Victorian Goldfields UNESCO World Heritage bid has been given a big boost thanks to $3.8 million announced in the Victorian Budget for championing Victoria’s outstanding heritage.
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 and is a proven, powerful catalyst for unlocking transformative opportunities for local communities. It 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.
The bid is the initiative of a regional partnership made up of the Victorian Goldfields Tourism Executive and 13 local councils led the City of Ballarat and the City of Greater Bendigo.
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.”
Pyrenees Shire Council Mayor Cr Ron Eason says the initiative has the potential to shine a global spotlight on the Victorian Goldfields.
“Ongoing investment in this project will look to preserve our unique heritage and attract international visitors to explore our goldfields region.”
To get involved in co-designing an exciting future for the Goldfields region and to learn more about the bid visit www.goldfieldsworldheritage.com.au
The Local Government partnership
• Ararat Rural City;
• Campaspe Shire;
• Central Goldfields Shire;
• City of Ballarat;
• City of Greater Bendigo;
• Golden Plains Shire;
• Hepburn Shire;
• Loddon Shire;
• Macedon Ranges Shire;
• Moorabool Shire;
• Mount Alexander Shire;
• Northern Grampians Shire; and
• Pyrenees Shire