OUTDOOR dining areas in Macedon Ranges Shire could become smoke free zones.
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A voluntary smoking ban in alfresco dining areas is being promoted by the shire council, with local businesses asked to take a lead in banning smoking.
Incentive rewards will be given to restaurants and cafes that adopt the program over the next two weeks.
Macedon Ranges manager community safety Anne-Louise Lindner said the policy was part of the shire’s plan to take a proactive stance against smoking in public areas. “The state government haven’t moved down the path of legislating against it, so we’ve done a voluntary program and are giving businesses the chance to show leadership in this area,” she said.
Earlier this year the Baw Baw Shire Council in East Gippsland became the first council in Victoria to prohibit smoking within 10 metres of alfresco dining areas.
Macedon Shire Council will write to cafes and restaurants today, with business owners asked to respond to expressions of interest by December 14.