The community and economic development plan, an initiative of the Campaspe Shire, will seek to build infrastructure and education opportunities for, as well as resilience among, the town’s 3,000-strong population.

A marketing plan will also articulate a “town brand” for Rochester as it navigates a changing employment landscape.

Consultation about the plan’s contents will begin next Saturday, December 16, at the Rochester community market.

Read more: Murray Goulburn to close Rochester plant

Mayor Adrian Weston said residents would be asked  “What makes Rochester great?” when contributing their ideas.

“Comments will be captured and fed into an overall community and economic development plan which will identify key focus areas and actions for Rochester,” Cr Weston said.

“This is just the first step of the project with a formal consultation process to follow early in the New Year.”

Residents not able to participate through the market day event can still provide input through the postcards at the Rochester Customer Service Centre.

The development of the plan was a recommendation from Rochester Open for Business, the group set up after news in May Murray Goulburn would shutter the dairy factory situated in the heart of the regional town.

“We are looking forward to starting this project and what ideas and suggestions the community come forward with,” Cr Weston said. 

Read more: MG bid offers town ray of hope