Parks Victoria Bypasses Macedon Ranges Shire Council
Mount Macedon is at the centre of community outrage following Parks Victoria’s decision to clear trees, despite Macedon Ranges Shire Council’s prior refusal. Local groups and environmental advocates are voicing their criticism strongly.
Tree and shrub removal, including rare Snow Gums, began this week under a planning pathway approved by Victorian Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny. The Macedon Cross Committee lobbied heavily for restored viewlines at the Mount Macedon Memorial Cross.
Ben Gill, Nature Campaigner with the Victorian National Parks Association (VNPA), criticised the decision as a severe failure in transparent planning and nature protection. “Local council assessed this proposal and refused it due to serious impacts on nature and strong community opposition,” Mr. Gill said.
Impact on Local Ecosystem
The clearing affects vulnerable native plant communities, including high-elevation grassy woodlands associated with Snow Gums. These ecosystems are already endangered, existing only in fragmented remnants. “Clearing them for a better view is completely out of step with nature protection laws and community expectations,” Mr. Gill added.
Concern in the community has been building for weeks. Residents, conservation groups, and experts have been questioning the impacts on plants and animals and the approval process. VNPA is examining whether the actions comply with Victoria’s nature laws, which require minimizing environmental impacts before removal is considered.
VNPA demands an immediate halt to the clearing activities and calls for the release of all related ecological assessments and decision-making documents. “This is public land, and decisions like this should be made transparently, based on evidence, and in the public interest,” Mr. Gill remarked.
The decision raises significant concerns about the integrity of Victoria’s planning system, especially regarding public land and nature conservation. “When a council refusal can be sidestepped like this, it undermines public confidence in the system,” Mr. Gill said. VNPA and local residents are pressing for answers and accountability.
In light of widespread opposition, VNPA emphasises the need for transparent decision-making processes. “Right now, the community is being asked to accept the destruction of rare plants without clear answers as to why,” Mr. Gill stated.
Last updated: 16 April 2026, 1:19 pm
