Funding allocated for Masterplan

Hepburn Shire Council has been awarded funding for the Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve Masterplan.  

The grant funding amount of $80,000 will be used to develop a masterplan to establish a guide for the future development and management of the Reserve.  

Hepburn Shire Mayor, Cr Brian Hood said, “We are very pleased to receive this significant funding as the reserve holds some important community assets; the Mineral Springs, which are a major drawcard for the area, walking tracks, picnic areas, and the historic Hepburn Bathhouse. The Bathhouse has been in operation for more than 125 years.” 

This project is funded through the Enabling Tourism Fund and Council will engage a qualified Visitor Economy planning specialist (or consortium of specialists). The project will include an assessment of the current visitor economy product and explore ways to enhance the location and experiences and increase visitation. Council will work in collaboration with Daylesford Macedon Tourism to deliver the program in 2025.  

There are evolving experiences in Victoria’s spa scene and Hepburn Shire plans to use this chance to keep up with the industry. It will take a holistic approach to wellness and self-rejuvenation.  

Cr Hood said, “We expect that the creation of the Masterplan will inform future renovation of the site. When that eventuates, it will encourage more people to visit, and to stay longer. Studies have already identified that the Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve could become a ‘jewel of the Shire’. We hold about 80% of Victoria’s mineral springs and we expect to capitalise on the fact that Hepburn Springs Mineral Reserve was the first in Australia, dating back some 150 years. We hope to explore that history and bring it to life.” 

The rejuvenation of the area, together with a website, will allow for Hepburn Shire to assess and prioritise the heritage, tourism, business and active recreational opportunities that this significant site presents.