Alpine Shire Council Rural Land Strategy – Final April 2015

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Rural precincts 1.5

Eight distinct precincts have been identified in the rural areas of Alpine Shire, each being

identified due to a range of differing land use, locational characteristics, agricultural

productivity and land use pressures. The precincts are identified in the following map. This

section outlines an assessment and recommendations for each precinct. For further details

on each rural precinct, reference should be made to the background report for this strategy.

Map 3 identifies the rural precincts identified in this study.

Alpine Shire Council Rural Land Strategy – Final April 2015

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Map 3: Rural Precincts in the Alpine Shire (Source: Alpine Shire Council)

Alpine Shire Council Rural Land Strategy – Final April 2015

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1.5.1 Introduction, rural precincts:

Characteristics for all precincts form part of the significance of Alpine Shire for agricultural

production, tourism and landscape. All precincts have a need to protect agricultural land

and the natural environment. All precincts offer opportunities for the further diversification

of agriculture and tourism.

While the rural precincts share common values, needs and opportunities, precincts also

include distinct characteristics, needs and opportunities unique to each area. These precinct

specific issues require specific actions and responses for individual precincts. Community

consultation for this strategy has guided the required responses and actions for each

precinct.

Further assessment, opportunities and detailed recommendations for each precinct are

outlined in the background report for this strategy. This background report guides future

land use in precincts, identifying further detailed needs and potential in each precinct.

1.5.2 Precinct 1 – Bright to Harrietville:

The Bright to Harrietville Precinct is characterised by a flat to gently undulating narrow valley

floor though which the Ovens River meanders. The sides of the valley rise sharply into the

Alpine National Park to the east and the state forest to the west.

Subdivision and dwelling pressures are apparent in the precinct.

While the valley is not renowned for commercial agricultural production, there is opportunity

to improve the agri-tourism experience by promoting the ‘farm to plate’ and ‘pedal to

produce’ experience with links to the shared bike path. There is also opportunity to expand

nature based tourism in areas fragmented from agriculture.

Tourism alliances should be built around key attractions such as walking trails, the Ovens

River and local produce sales and food and wine experiences.

Alpine Shire Council Rural Land Strategy – FINAL April 2015

Map 4: Precinct 1: Bright to Harrietville (Source: Alpine Shire Council)