Did you know that 26,800 people will call Bairnsdale home in 2050? It is projected that Bairnsdale will be home to another 10,000 people and provide 3,500 more jobs by 2050.

The East Gippsland community is invited to be part of an exciting project, Bairnsdale 2050, where almost every aspect of Bairnsdale’s future is on the agenda. Sustainable growth, transport, housing, neighbourhoods, the CBD, community facilities, responding to climate change – these are all important challenges for the future.

East Gippsland Shire Council Mayor Cr Tom Crook said all community members are welcome to share their ideas.

“By participating in developing solutions to the many challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for our regional centre, you can help shape our future,” Cr Crook said.

After an expression of interest process in late 2023, a panel of community members was assembled and boasts strong personal, professional or community connection with Bairnsdale and surrounds. Joined by Councillors Mendy Urie and John White, the panel members are:

• Jack Peterson
• Tim Biles
• Luke Strickland
• Trevor Hancock
• Mark Howlett
• Patrick Carson
• Jmara King
• Jenny Hardy
• Belinda Stewart
• Genevieve Wilks
• Ryan Varney
• Angela Woods
• Matthew Virgo

The panel has been working with Council officers and a team of planning, design and economic experts to develop the project documents for community input.

Community Panel member Ryan Varney said he was attracted to getting involved in the project because it is an opportunity to build on Bairnsdale’s strengths and create new opportunities for the future.

“What paths do we want to take now, to create the Bairnsdale we want in the future?” Mr Varney said.

A discussion paper has been prepared to encourage early community input and is available now.

“All community members are welcome to share their big picture ideas that will help to make Bairnsdale a thriving centre that meets the lifestyle needs of future generations,” Cr Crook said.

“It is your future, so be bold with your feedback and ideas. They are essential to the development of Bairnsdale 2050 and will be used to directly shape the project."

This round of community feedback closes 21 April 2024 but there will be more opportunities for involvement as Bairnsdale 2050 progresses.

For more information visit the YourSay project page, keep an eye on our Facebook page or visit any of our customer service centres.