A long-term plan for the largest parkland in Whittlesea has been endorsed by council.
The Quarry Hills Regional Parkland Future Directions Plan, developed in partnership with the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation, was endorsed at a council meeting on 5 August 15 , and will guide the future development and delivery of the parkland.
The parklands, in South Morang and Mernda, will span more than 1000 hectares and will be home to the Granite Hills community park and an aboriginal gathering place.
Council’s chair administrator Lydia Wilson said the future directions plan will help protect significant ecological and cultural values and provide valuable open space for both the growing population of the City of Whittlesea and visitors across greater Melbourne.
“Quarry Hills Parkland is a stunning area that is rich in history and plays a significant role in our natural landscape. Our vision is that the parklands become a place for exploration, reconciliation, healing, learning and play, for our community and also for visitors to the area,” Ms Wilson said.
“We have worked closely with the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation and our community to create the principles that will guide the parklands’ future development and we would like to thank everyone who has provided their feedback.”
As part of the plan, council will work with the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung to establish a caring for Country management plan and will commence community consultation early next year on renaming the parklands as the bunjil nganga parklands.
Ms Wilson said she envisaged the parklands becoming a space for exploration, reconciliation, healing and play.
“Quarry Hills Parkland is the gem in the crown of the City of Whittlesea’s open spaces and this plan will help us grow and protect the area for future generations,” Ms Wilson said.
