The council voted to close several unused Victorian Government roads at Banyula State Forest in line with a request from the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action.
Cr Rob Amos said that, in essence, the decision to close certain roads would only be reflected on paper, and those that were used to access private sites would remain open.
The decision will bring the proposed Echuca Historic and Cultural Features Reserve closer to fruition, planned to feature colonial activity in the area.
Echuca’s significant role in the development of Victoria will be highlighted by the reserve, which encompasses Echuca Wharf, the old police station and the railway pumping station.
The eastern forested end of the reserve will include Macintosh’s sawmill site, Shin Bone Alley and Southern Cross Village lodges.
“These were settlement sites back in the late 19th century that were used for the housing of sawmill workers,” Cr Amos said.
“Unfortunately, in the 1906 floods, they were mostly washed away. Ever since that time, this area has not been inhabited.”
While little material evidence of the area’s settler habitation remains, DEECA has highlighted potential to construct interpretive nature and historic walking trails.
Once the project is completed, it is expected the reserve’s management will be transferred from DEECA to Parks Victoria.
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