By Jodie Symonds
THE Emerald Tourist Railway Board (ETRB) is seeking community feedback on the draft Puffing Billy Railway Master Plan 2016.
It relates to the use of ETRB controlled land along the Puffing Billy Railway corridor.
The draft master plan and associated documentation identifies key investment opportunities, land use enhancements and a preliminary feasibility assessment for visitor accommodation as part of the Puffing Billy Railway experience.
ETRB will be presenting the draft marketing plan to the community over three sessions on Saturday 8 October 2016.
The plan will be on display between 26 September and 24 October at the Cardinia Shire Council Civic Centre and Yarra Ranges Community Link Centres in Lilydale, Monbulk, Healesville, Upwey and Yarra Junction.
Key elements of the draft master plan include investments in rail infrastructure, visitor facilities, volunteer facilities and environmental management.
Puffing Billy Chief Executive, John Robinson said it was important for Puffing Billy Railway to explore and plan ways to stay relevant in an evolving marketplace.
He said Puffing Billy Railway was experiencing increasing visitation from local and international visitors.
The railway is under increasing pressure to provide needed infrastructure, while protecting the values that make the Puffing Billy Railway special.
The master plan will progress the potential for new investment and enhancements to the railway’s visitor experience and aim to elevate the memorable experience of this area as a key part of Victoria’s tourism offer.
The plan can also be inspected online at the Puffing Billy Railway website www.puffingbilly.com/masterplan.
Sessions will be held at 9am at Gembrook Community Centre, 12pm at Gemco Players Community Theatre in Emerald and 3pm at Mater Christi School in Belgrave.
The ETRB welcomes community feedback and asks people to submit their responses in writing via the online survey found on the Puffing Billy website, by email to masterplan@pbr.org.au or mail addressed to Emerald Tourist Railway Board, PO Box 451, Belgrave, Victoria, 3160. The closing date for submissions is 5pm on 24 October.
