A high level of visitation to the Mount Macedon Memorial Cross precinct is placing pressure on existing infrastructure and facilities, the local committee of management says.
Chairman David Mann said a masterplan for the upgrade of facilities at the site was just months away from completion.
“Immediate works needed include upgrading bus parking facilities, the restoration of the gatehouse, new signage, improvements to viewing corridors, seating and bollards, the restoration of memorial plaques and upgrading the tearooms,” Mr Mann said.
“We’d also like to see an education and welcome centre built for visitors and students, with interactive things to touch and feel, to explain the story of the cross and the area.”
Mr Mann estimated about $2M would need to be raised for the infrastructure upgrades, while another $5M would be needed for a visitor centre.
Attracting up to 5000 visitors on ANZAC Day and many more throughout the year, the reserve includes a memorial cross, heritage gardens, tearooms, picnic area and commemorative plaques depicting war history.
Built by local land owner William Cameron to commemorate those who fought in WWI, the cross now honours those who served in all conflicts.
It is considered Victoria’s most significant war memorial after Melbourne’s Shrine of Remembrance and is listed on the Victorian Heritage Register.
The committee has worked closely with local residents, Parks Victoria, Macedon Ranges Shire Council, the RSL, Heritage Victoria, ADF, Tourism Victoria and planning students from La Trobe University to develop the masterplan.
Work on the masterplan began in 2019 before the dual setbacks of COVID-19 and last year’s destructive storms delayed its progress.
