With the click of a button, attendees will be able to indicate their stance on elements of the plan and related issues. 

The idea is for the poll results to appear instantaneously on screens inside the Ulumbarra Theatre foyer, where the sessions will be held.

Council has received more than 800 responses from ratepayers in relation to the plan – more than 500 via an online survey, and more than 300 in answer to a short postcard.

The two-hour sessions, from 6.30pm on both February 27 and March 2, are opportunities for council and the community to discuss and test the feedback received to date.

In their responses, residents identified their likes and dislikes about living in the municipality and suggested priorities for the future. 

Among them were a need to focus on necessary services for residents; a need for expenditure to be fairly spread across the entire municipality; and a need for spaces and activities for young people.

Residents also called for council to ensure all-abilities access, to advocate for improved health initiatives, and to provide cycling and walking paths for recreation areas.

The nurturing role of local government was emphasised by suggestions council support employment opportunities for young people and people living with a disability; foster innovation and creativity; and support live music. 

People wanted council to maintain their existing lifestyle and amenities, and the character of rural towns.

However, they also wanted their local government to advocate for better traffic coordination, to consider environmental sustainability when planning for the future, to improve safety for cyclists in the city centre, and to set guidelines for housing design. 

Council has proposed to develop the plan using six key objectives: To lead and govern for all, wellbeing and fairness, strengthening the economy, presentation and managing growth, environmental sustainability, and embracing our culture and heritage.

Deputy mayor Rod Fyffe stressed the importance of residents becoming involved in the document’s development.

“What we have heard to date is really valuable but it’s important to know that we’re hearing you correctly and that there is support for the objectives council would like to deliver on,” he said. 

“This plan will guide the work of council over the next four years, including how we invest ratepayer money on your behalf.”

Kevin de Vries, of the Junortoun Community Action Group, said members were supportive of council’s efforts to involve the community in the process. 

He said the challenge, both for the council and the group, was trying to engage younger people.

Council has asked that people planning on attending the sessions email strategyunit@bendigo.vic.gov.au or phone Lisa Norman on 5434 6148.