You Yangs, Serendip Sanctuary plans revealed as community group angered

Better wildlife viewing and community facilities are part of an $11m plan to redevelop two regional parks, but a community group is unhappy with the consultation process

Lara Member Ella George announced plans for a proposed redevelopment Serendip Sanctuary and the You Yangs Regional Park. Inset picture: Alan Barber

Wildlife viewing, protection from predators and revamped visitor facilities are part of the state government’s master plan to redevelop the You Yangs Regional Park and Serendip Sanctuary.

The release coincides with a community group withdrawing from the consultation process saying local member Ella George “failed the community”.

The state government released draft plans for the redevelopment, which have been opened up for community consultation.

If approved, the $11m project would include redesigned entrances and car parks, picnic areas, barbecues and accessible footpaths at both parks.

According to the plans, upgrades at Serendip Sanctuary would create a “better wildlife viewing experience” for visitors, with new bird-viewing areas, upgrades to the trails, and refurbishment of the park’s predator-proof fence.

Under the plans the Serendip Education Centre would be upgraded.

Render of an education centre at the proposed development at Serendip Sanctuary

Plans for the You Yangs site include an extension to the Epic Loop Trail mountain bike track.

But, the proposed redevelopments have not been without controversy.

The government committed in 2022 to shift Serendip Sanctuary to focus more on endangered and at-risk species, rather than the captive breeding program.

But the Lara Care group warned the change could cost the sanctuary its tourist potential.

A spokesman for the group, Barry White, at the time said residents were concerned about the relocation of animals such as kangaroos and emus.

Render of an education centre at the proposed development at Serendip Sanctuary

In an online statement on Monday, the group said it had withdrawn from Parks Victoria’s reference group over “mishandling of developments” and said local member Ella George shared “some blame” for their grievances.

“She has failed the community on this major project to protect and help develop Serendip as an iconic visitor attraction, previously described as this region’s ‘jewel in the crown’.”

Render of a nature walk at the proposed development at Serendip Sanctuary

Environment Minister Steve Dimopoulos said the development would help bring visitors to the parks and give green space for the growing Lara community.

“You Yangs Regional Park and Serendip Sanctuary are much loved parks and by uplifting the facilities we’re helping boost visitation to the region, and provide growing communities with access to green spaces closer to home,” Mr Dimopoulos said.

Render of a car park at the proposed development at the You Yangs Regional Park

Ms George said the government’s investment would protect the parks for the local community.

“I know how important the You Yangs and Serendip Sanctuary are to our local community – and that’s exactly why we are investing in these parks, to ensure they are preserved and protected for years to come,” Ms George said.

“It is an exciting time for the Lara community as we embark of this transformative journey of the You Yangs and Serendip Sanctuary. I encourage local residents to engage with these draft designs and share your thoughts, as we work together to shape a vibrant future for this beloved precinct.”

The plans are currently open for public consultation. Feedback on the draft designs will close on April 28.

Originally published as You Yangs, Serendip Sanctuary plans revealed as community group angered