Thematic Environmental History

A ‘Thematic Environmental History’ (TEH) is a strategic tool that helps understand the land use development of the shire.

It enriches our knowledge of Macedon Ranges' unique and special historical values, covering topics like how the environment has driven particular types of industries in specific locations, or how groups of people have been encouraged to work or settle here over the last two centuries.

A TEH is a tool used for heritage protection (Heritage Overlays) under the Planning and Environment Act, though it will establish the context of Aboriginal and natural heritage values of the Macedon Ranges. It will assist with prioritising the heritage protection work in the future, so that the focus is directed to those areas where there may be only little or no representation – ‘gaps’ – in the Macedon Ranges Planning Scheme, rather than to areas that are already adequately represented.

A TEH is not a standard history, written chronologically. It is a concise report that works to a framework of nine themes drawn from the Victoria’s Framework of Historical Themes. Find out more about how Thematic Environment Histories work

The TEH is largely drawn from published secondary sources such as the legacy heritage studies, Shire of Kyneton Conservation (Heritage) Study 1990 and Macedon Ranges Cultural Heritage and Landscape Study1994, books published by the historical societies, and pamphlets. Some readily available online material was also used such as digitised photos and historic newspapers.

Consultation with the Macedon Ranges Heritage Council occurred through the project, and their ongoing support and detailed feedback strengthened the report. Community members also took time to share their knowledge of the municipality during the consultation period (24 August to 23 September 2022) which also contributed significantly to the project.

The final Macedon Ranges Thematic Environmental History report(PDF, 10MB) was adopted by Council on Wednesday 13 December 2023.