COMMERCIAL and conservation concerns may yet find common ground if the right mix of interests come together in the tender for future management of Horseshoe Bend and its former children’s farm buildings. Tenders for the historic Keilor site close tomorrow.
Western Melbourne chief ranger Rocky Barca said depending on submissions received, Parks Victoria may deal with one preferred proponent or a number of parties. It could also call for additional supporting information as required.
“We will consider options for future management of the site if the assessment process fails to finds an appropriate submission,” Mr Barca said.
Wildlife Rescue Victoria spokeswoman Amy Amato said the not-for-profit group was “hanging on the edge of our seats” to discover if there was interest in the creation of a rescue facility where the group could also educate vets and rangers in the specifics of saving injured wildlife. “All calls currently made to Parks Victoria, councils and the RSPCA are flicked to us. We know we have a good service.”
It deals with some 60,000 calls each year, with rescue and recuperation efforts spread among 1300 volunteers, dealing with native creatures from wedge-tailed eagles, kangaroos, wombats and echidnas to even the occasional seal.
Ms Amato said Wildlife Rescue wanted to partner with Greening Australia to manage the 26-hectare site, which has significant flora and fauna.
Keilor Historical Society president Susan Jennison feared residents and community groups were being “kept in the dark” about plans for Horseshoe Bend. She said respect for Aboriginal and European history was fundamental to the site’s future.
The farm, which adjoins Brimbank Park, has four registered Aboriginal heritage sites.
