Got opinions on the You Yangs? Now's your chance to be heard.
The Victorian government is seeking community input on proposed upgrades to the You Yangs Regional Park and Serendip Sanctuary, with newly released draft concept designs now available for public scrutiny.
You Yangs Regional Park and Serendip Sanctuary
- Public consultation open until Sunday, 27 April 2025
- Feedback here
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Wildlife viewing gets priority at Serendip
The $11 million investment aims to revolutionise both popular outdoor destinations with a series of targeted improvements. At Serendip Sanctuary, wildlife enthusiasts can look forward to enhanced bird-viewing facilities and significant upgrades to the Wetland Circuit Trail.
The plans also include a much-needed refurbishment of the sanctuary’s predator-proof fence – a crucial element that protects native wildlife while allowing visitors better viewing opportunities.
Students haven’t been forgotten either, with proposed renovations to Serendip’s Education Centre and Outdoor Learning Area designed to create more engaging educational spaces for school groups and young visitors.
Mountain bikers score extended trail at You Yangs
Meanwhile, at the You Yangs Regional Park, mountain biking enthusiasts will celebrate the planned extension to the popular Epic Loop Trail, offering riders more challenging terrain and updated facilities.
Cultural connection to country is also a key focus, with designs incorporating a dedicated interpretation space allowing visitors to deepen their understanding of Wadawurrung Country and its significance.
These new proposals build on recently completed projects including the rehabilitation of the entrance display pond and the creation of the Serendip Sanctuary Sensory Garden – a collaborative project involving disability services providers, local schools, community groups and Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation. The sensory garden received additional funding support from CDC Victoria, CMV Truck & Bus and Volvo Bus Australia, who collectively contributed $45,000 to the project.
The concepts weren’t developed in isolation, having emerged from the 2022 You Yangs Precinct Master Plan – itself the product of extensive community consultation with local residents, traditional owners and other stakeholders.
Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos explained the significance of the proposed upgrades: “You Yangs Regional Park and Serendip Sanctuary are much loved parks and by uplifting the facilities we’re helping boost visitation to the region, and provide growing communities with access to green spaces closer to home.
“Whether you’re a student at Lara Primary, an avid mountain biker or keen a bird watcher – the You Yangs and Serendip Sanctuary have something for everyone, and our $11 million investment will strengthen this.”
Local Member for Lara Ella George encouraged residents to participate in the consultation process: “I know how important the You Yangs and Serendip Sanctuary are to our local community – and that’s exactly why we are investing in these parks, to ensure they are preserved and protected for years to come.
“It is an exciting time for the Lara community as we embark of this transformative journey of the You Yangs and Serendip Sanctuary. I encourage local residents to engage with these draft designs and share your thoughts, as we work together to shape a vibrant future for this beloved precinct.”
For more information, head here.
