Plans for an eight-hectare botanic garden, amphitheatre, event space and cafe in the small Campaspe Shire Council town of Girgarre are set to become a reality thanks to investment from the Victorian Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions.
This is a great example of community-led rejuvenation and we’re proud to have played a small role in Girgarre’s journey to greatness.
Back in 2017, ACRE – Australian Centre for Rural Entrepreneurship worked in partnership with Rural Councils Victoria to deliver cross-sector learning workshops across 38 member councils. These facilitated ‘understanding social enterprise’ workshops brought together leaders from government, community, education and business to learn about social enterprise. One of the projects we explored along the way was the Girgarre Botanic Gardens.
Fast forward to 2021, and this initiative will be a huge benefit for a town of 560 people that has experienced challenges including drought and the closure of local businesses. Congrats to everyone who contributed to the journey so far.