Community Feedback Shapes New Vision for Ararat’s Eastern Entrance

Ararat Rural City Council would like to thank the community for sharing their valuable insights and creative ideas to help design a welcoming new entrance to Ararat.

The 30-day consultation on Council’s Engage Ararat platform called on residents to share ideas for a town gateway that best captures Ararat’s local identity, welcomes travellers, and inspires visitors to stop and explore the region.

Council received a total of 37 submissions, with the feedback highlighting a strong desire to reflect Ararat’s unique character. Key themes focused on agriculture, manufacturing, and local history, with a strong emphasis on the natural environment and acknowledgment of the Grampians region. Submissions also highlighted the vital importance of honouring the region’s rich Indigenous heritage and Chinese gold rush past.

Many practical design suggestions also emerged with residents expressing strong support for utilising regional materials, particularly local bluestone. Residents drew inspiration from neighbouring town entry signs, such as those in Beaufort and Stawell, with many suggesting the final concepts should prominently and proudly feature the Ararat name.

“We’re really pleased with the high level of community engagement,” said Ararat Rural City Council CEO, Dr. Tim Harrison.

“It’s great to see our residents getting involved in reimagining Ararat’s eastern entrance. We look forward to shaping this valuable feedback into a strategy that delivers a renewed and welcoming gateway to our town.”

With the feedback window now closed, Council is thoroughly reviewing all submissions and will share proposed designs for further public consultation in the near future.

To stay up to date with the Eastern Highway Entrance, visit the dedicated project page: engage.ararat.vic.gov.au/eastern-entrance-signage

Residents can also sign up for Council’s regular eNews for the latest project updates and upcoming events across the municipality by visiting engage.ararat.vic.gov.au or calling Customer Service on (03) 5355 0200.