How we can help shape Nyora’s future

WITH Nyora seen as being on the cusp of significant development, community members are encouraged to play a part in shaping the town’s future.

An enthusiastic band of locals spoke on Tuesday night about their ideas for the development of a new Nyora Community Plan, at the second such session.

The discussion was guided by Barbara Look, a South Gippsland Shire Council community strengthening officer.

She stressed the importance of community members presenting council with a clear outlook on what they want to see happen in Nyora, posing a question for those present.

“What would make Nyora even better than it is?”

Environment and sustainability, roads and other infrastructure, community wellbeing, youth issues, and community activities and events were all topics of discussion.

There is still plenty of scope for others to get involved, with plans for another meeting on June 20.

While the creation of a new Nyora Community Plan to replace the outdated 2010 version is an important goal, that isn’t the only focus.

Another key aim is to establish a new town group to represent the various organisations in Nyora, filling a hole left by the disbanding of the Nyora and District Development Association.

“There’s a lot to be said for a central body,” Barbara stated, noting the value of having an organisation that represents all the town’s groups.

Cr Mick Felton, a Nyora resident, agreed such a central body will prove valuable in getting necessary projects done in the town, such as the need to determine the future of Nyora Railway Station.

Barbara added that an overarching group would be well positioned as a custodian of the new Nyora Community Plan, able to ensure it is updated in timely fashion.

Earlier, Barbara spoke of the expectations for development in Nyora, with Mick saying it is anticipated to eventually be bigger than Leongatha, something he conceded is difficult to imagine at present.

Eleanor Dowel and Tennille Macdonald represented Nyora Primary School’s school council at Tuesday’s meeting, having also attended the previous community plan session.

They are keen to see a kindergarten and childcare centre in town, arguing that when kids go elsewhere they don’t come back.

President of Loch Nyora Landcare Group, Malcolm Brown, wants to see a focus on sustainability of local native ecosystems, including carrying out indigenous planting when possible.

The prospect of a multipurpose community venue at Nyora Recreation Reserve and a desire for the town’s speedway to remain were other topics.

Turning Nyora Railway Station into an entry point to the Great Southern Rail Trail was also suggested.

Barbara urged community members involved in various local organisations to take a long-term view when considering what can be achieved through a new Community Plan.

Having been involved in helping guide the creation of many towns’ community plans through her council role, she stressed the value of working together rather than viewing prospective initiatives in a competitive fashion.

Mick agreed with the need for everyone to work together, saying there are many people doing good work around town but the various organisations are currently in their “own pockets”.

“We need to come together,” he said.

Barbara explained that council takes note of community plans, which alert its staff and councillors to the aspirations of each community.

She added that council’s Community Strengthening Team commits to reviewing Community Plans to help ensure they remain up to date.

Details of next Nyora Community Plan discussion session:

When: 6.30pm Tuesday June 20

Where: Nyora Public Hall