It has been a huge couple of weeks for FGT. Here's a quick update as we continue pushing for a fair, balanced and community-led approach to the Activity Centre Program in Thornbury.
1. We’re now on Instagram
We’ve officially joined Instagram — follow us at @fairgrowththornbury for updates, maps, explainers and a bit of Thornbury colour.
2. Political engagement is well underway
We recently met with Campbell Gome, the Greens-endorsed candidate for Northcote, to discuss the community’s concerns and opportunities in the draft plans.
We have also reached out to congratulate Jess Wilson, the new Leader of the Victorian Liberals and Nationals. Our dialogue with Labor's Kat Theophanous continues, and we remain actively engaged with the office of Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny. We are also in contact with the Victorian Socialists to brief them and understand their position on the Activity Centre Program.
Fair Growth Thornbury is apolitical. We’ll work with any party committed to building more homes, done better. That means increasing density while protecting the village character, walkability, local businesses and streets that make Thornbury such an exceptional place to live.
3. Our small business campaign has launched
If Thornbury has a rhythm, our small businesses set the beat. So that's why we have been talking to business owners about the Government's plans and why business should be concerned. You may start spotting Fair Growth Thornbury posters in your favourite cafés, bars, retailers and local shops. Please continue supporting all Thornbury's wonderful small businesses no matter if they have a sign up, but if you see one proudly displaying our sign, let them know it matters.
We’ll soon add a section to our website recognising the businesses standing with the community on fair density increases and development so you can pop in and say thanks.
4. A major milestone: meeting with the Minister’s staff & DTP planners
This week, we hosted senior staff from the Planning Minister’s office and planners from the Department of Transport & Planning for a walking meeting through Thornbury. We showed them why our residential streets need protection, why High Street’s village character must be preserved, and why St Georges Road represents the most logical and sustainable location for genuine urban renewal. The fact they came out on the ground shows that FGT is being seen as a strong representation of community’s voice. We will continue our strong advocacy up to and beyond the release of the final plans if necessary.
5. What’s next — and how you can help
For those that have donated already, thank you so much. We’re gearing up for several major political engagement activities over the coming months, work that will be crucial as the plans move toward finalisation. If you’re able, please consider supporting our GoFundMe. We know that times are difficult at the moment and many are struggling during this cost of living crisis, but if you are able to contribute every contribution helps us keep the pressure on and ensures community-led solutions remain front and centre. Please do not donate through Change.org as that only goes to spreading the petitions and we do not receive those funds to use on more important targeted influencing activities.
6. Media interest is growing again
We’ve had more journalists reach out to us about the campaign. We’ll share more as those conversations develop.
Until next time, keep the conversation going. Support our small-business allies, chat to neighbours, and stay tuned, there’s more to come.
Fair Growth Thornbury Strategy and Activities Committee