Cross plan questioned

Amy Hume

Rare snow gums at Mount Macedon are at risk in aproposal to restore views to Melbourne from Mount Macedon War Memorial Cross.

Built in 1935, the cross is considered one of the most significant war memorials in Victoria but decades of growth have altered view lines.

Parks Victoria's viewscape project seeks to clear up to 2.3 hectares native vegetation in Macedon Regional Park including healthy rare gums.

"The cross was originally designed to be visible from the surrounding countryside and to have sweeping views over the plains towards the city," Parks Victoria's application stated.

"There is aheritagecovenant over the Memorial Cross Reserve which outlines the expectation that views can be enjoyed from Melbourne and looking out from the cross."

Parks Victoria has been developing the plan over two years with input from various groups including Macedon Ranges Shire Council and Mount Macedon Memorial Cross Committee of Management.

MMMC Committee of Management Chairman David Mann said the project had support of the committee and the veteran community.

"This (viewscape project) is not inventing something that hasn't happened before. It has been done many times before -unfortunately now it has been let go," he said.

"The cross is not only atourist attraction but also asignificant site for remembering all those who served -pastand present. It's the second-most important memorial in the state... The view to and from the cross is important."

While the proposal restores views to and from the cross, some residents have questioned the cost.

The Victorian National Parks Association said the proposal was "unnecessary and disproportionate as it involves clearing of unique and important habitat".

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