Suggestions by Bendigo MHR Steve Gibbons to sell part of the site, as revealed in today’s issue of The Advertiser, will undoubtedly spark some controversy.

However, more importantly, the concept should also spark the conversation that this city needs to have about one of its true icons.

Six months ago, this newspaper commented on how interest groups had been circling for some time, anxious to have the mansion and its considerable grounds returned to the community as part of a new era.

Yet very little has emerged from those who would be players in this vital debate.

Putting in place a proper community management plan for Fortuna Villa remains a once in a lifetime opportunity for this city and its citizens of today and tomorrow.

There have been rumours and hints of various options and models for the Fortuna property, as well as calls by the Villa Fortuna Action Group for the community to be included.

But it’s time for everyone who ever had a dream for Fortuna Villa - and who wants to realise that dream - to get organised so that the rest of us who care so much about what happens next can be better informed.

One thing that hasn’t changed in the past six months or so is that Fortuna remains both an exciting opportunity and a daunting responsibility for our community.

What do you think?

Write a letter to the editor, or e-mail editor@bendigoadvertiser.com.au