Planning and Environment

Clarkefield Township Development 

Council endorsed a detailed submission to the proposed Clarkefield Township Development, a project that could see a new community of up to 2,500 homes established east of the Clarkefield railway station. 

While Council supports well-planned growth, the submission notes that Clarkefield is not currently identified as a preferred growth area within Council's planning framework and that the long-term role of the township remains unresolved. It also highlights concerns about the lack of comprehensive social and economic assessment, as well as questions around infrastructure delivery, community facilities, environmental impacts, long-term costs and future governance arrangements. 

The submission will now be provided to the Minister for Planning for consideration. Further information on this matter can be found on Council's website at mrsc.vic.gov.au/Clarkefield-Development 

Housing targets 

Council is continuing to seek answers from the State Government about housing targets assigned to Macedon Ranges Shire. 

Councillors noted they are still awaiting a response to questions about how housing targets are calculated, how growth will be tracked, and how infrastructure such as roads, community facilities and essential services will keep pace as the population grows. Further information on this matter can be found on Council’s website at mrsc.vic.gov.au/State-Government-Advocacy 

New homes in Woodend 

A planning permit was approved for three new single-storey homes at 16 Jeffreys Street, Woodend. 

The proposal was assessed against planning requirements including neighbourhood character, landscaping, parking, drainage and residential amenity. Council determined the development was an appropriate fit within the existing township and would contribute to local housing supply while respecting the surrounding area. 

Kangaroo Harvest Management Program petition 

Council considered a community petition seeking the removal of Macedon Ranges Shire from Victoria's Kangaroo Harvesting Program. 

Council resolved not to seek exclusion from the program at this time, noting that the State Government's next formal review of the Victorian Kangaroo Harvest Management Plan is not yet underway. Council also resolved to request further evidence from the State Government demonstrating how the program is managed in a sustainable and humane way, and how future kangaroo harvesting numbers are calculated. 

Council encouraged community members to participate in future State Government consultation and review processes, which are expected to occur before the current management plan expires in 2028. 

Supporting local communities

Community Funding Scheme 

Council considered recommendations for the 2026/27 Community Funding Scheme, which will support 22 community projects across the shire. 

In addition to noting the recommended funding allocations, Council resolved a revised approval process for this year's program and requested a review of the Community Grants Policy, with a revised policy to be considered prior to the 2027/28 grant allocations.   

Council also noted the 2027/28 Community Grants Program will be launched later than usual to allow findings from the Strategic Grants Review to be considered. 

Events and Festivals Grant Program 

Council considered recommendations for the 2026/27 Events and Festivals Grant Program, which supports events that bring communities together, attract visitors and support local businesses across the Macedon Ranges. 

Council noted the recommended funding and in-kind support allocations and resolved a revised approval process for the 2026/27 program. 

Council also requested a review of its Community Grants Policy, with a revised policy to be considered before the 2027/28 grant allocations. 

Community Satisfaction Survey 

Results from the 2026 Community Satisfaction Survey showed an improvement in overall community satisfaction compared with last year. 

Residents rated recreational facilities, waste services and customer service among Council's strongest-performing areas. The survey also highlighted ongoing community priorities including road maintenance, infrastructure investment and planning services. The results will help guide future planning, advocacy and service improvements. 

Roads and Infrastructure

Noonan Grove, Woodend 

Council considered the outcome of community consultation on the proposed Noonan Grove road upgrade project. 

Following the formal objection process, Council resolved not to proceed with the Special Charge Scheme after objections were received from a majority of affected property owners. The road will continue to be maintained through Council's normal road management program. 

Romsey Road pedestrian safety improvements 

Progress is being made on improving pedestrian safety along Romsey Road in Woodend following a community petition. 

Short-term improvements funded by the Victorian Government will include relocating the pedestrian footpath, crossing point and installing additional fencing. Council and the Department of Transport and Planning will continue investigating longer-term solutions. 

Infrastructure contracts 

Council endorsed the award of several infrastructure contracts, including underground drainage renewal works. 

These projects help maintain and improve important community infrastructure while reducing disruption for residents and improving the long-term reliability of Council assets. 

Representing Macedon Ranges

National General Assembly of Local Government 

Council received a report on attendance at the 2026 National General Assembly of Local Government in Canberra. 

The report outlined advocacy undertaken on behalf of Macedon Ranges communities and discussions on issues including housing, infrastructure funding, regional development, disaster resilience and the future sustainability of local government. 

Petition - Grahams Road, Lancefield 

Council received a petition calling for lower speed limits and improved safety at several intersections along Grahams Road, Lancefield. 

Council noted the petition and requested a further report be prepared for consideration at a future Council Meeting. 

Council also received a range of governance and organisational reports, including the Audit and Risk Committee biannual report and updates to Council's staff delegations, helping ensure Council continues to operate transparently, efficiently and in line with legislative requirements. 

Council also noted the Mayor's monthly report, which highlighted community engagement, advocacy and representation activities undertaken across the shire during the past month. The July meeting marked Cr Kate Kendall's final Council Meeting as Mayor before a new Mayor is elected.