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Tourism and Events
Friday 28 May 2010 at Elmore
2010 LMCLP participants spent the day
at Elmore on Friday 28th May 2010 exploring the theme of Tourism and
Events.
Innovative ideas and local community
initiatives of world class standard impressed the group of community
leaders who come from various communities across the north-central region
of Victoria.
Steady rain did not dampen their
spirits as they toured the Elmore Events Centre with Sue Doyle. LMCLP
participant, Melinda Mann, was amazed by the “level of commitment and
dedication by volunteers to stage one of the largest field days in
Australia.”
A tour of the Campaspe Run Discovery
Centre was a highlight for many. Centre co-manager, Dianne Anderson, told
an innovative story of how the community pulled together to ensure that
Elmore is on the map for tourists. The rich history at Campaspe Run
provides an invaluable experience for future generations to walk in the
shoes of our ancestors.
 The day session
concluded on a high with a ride on the Elmore miniature train.
Participants eagerly embraced their childhood as the train whizzed around
the tracks. Owner Barry Mitchell’s passion for trains and his community
was evident when he told the story of how the train began and how it works
as a tourist and wider economic opportunity for Elmore.
In addition to touring local
initiatives the group also worked on improving their skills. A key
workshop on time management conducted by Bendigo consultant, Clare
Fountain, provided valuable tips for community leaders that have to
balance home, work and community interests. Participants were able to map
out their time to assist with making some changes in the future.
Guest speaker at dinner was Garry
Aitchison, Marketing Manager for Victorian Goldfields Railway. Garry
shared the history of the Maldon to Castlemaine Railway Line and the
subsequent achievements of a small group of dedicated volunteers
LMCLP participant Shiralee Bothe was
impressed with the “vision and achievements of the community group at
Maldon.”
The group expressed sincere thanks to
everyone who contributed thheir time to speak to the group during the day.
A special thank-you was given to the City of Greater Bendigo for their
ongoing support of the program that enables participants to gain first
hand insight into how communities work.
The next step in the program is a four
day trip to Canberra late in June, where participants will meet with
politicians and gain some insights into how politics run in the country.
This story was prepared by 2010
participant Melinda Mann |
