The man who spearheaded a public campaign to have the historic Horseshoe Bend Farm re-opened to the public says the site is going to waste.
After a six year battle, the site was re-opened to the public in 2016, however Keilor resident Barry McMahon said it has been sorely under used.
“It’s such a beautiful part of the world, but when I go down there there’s never really anyone around,” Mr McMahon said.
“I think part of the problem is not enough people know it’s actually open.
“The only way to access it is via a small gate and we’re finding that we’re the ones having to let people know it’s open.
“Parks Victoria are in control of the land and they need to do something with it.”
Mr McMahon said the 26-hectare reserve, which includes a 1930s cottage, stables and a number of outbuildings, could become a thriving hub of activity if used in the right way.
“There’s no cafe in Brimbank Park any more, but you could quite easily have a coffee shop in the building at Horseshoe Bend Farm,” Mr McMahon said.
“We could have any number of activities held there, but nothing seems to be happening and it’s not being promoted in the slightest.”
Parks Victoria area chief ranger David Collins said the low-key approach to the re-opening was by design.
“At a meeting in 2016, the community indicated to Parks Victoria they are supportive of plans for a low-key opening of the reserve,” Mr Collins said.
“Parks Victoria is also working with community groups on low-key activities that will be suitable for the reserve.”
