To:

1. The Hon. Maree Edwards MP, Member for Bendigo West and Speaker for the Victorian Legislative Assembly, State Government of Victoria.
2. Mayor Cr. Thomas Prince and Councillors, City of Greater Bendigo

We, the undersigned, would like to respectfully petition 

1. To the State Government of Victoria (Department of Transport and Planning), to introduce public transport (bus services) to Marong, connecting the township with Bendigo and key destinations such as schools, health services, and transport hubs.
2. To the City of Greater Bendigo, to advocate to the State Government of Victoria, to support the introduction of public transport (bus services) to Marong, incorporating public transport to the suburb as a priority project. 

Petition Purpose:

Marong in Victoria is one of the fastest‑growing areas within the City of Greater Bendigo. The City of Greater Bendigo’s Managed Growth Strategy identifies Marong as a key growth corridor and a future satellite township. According to the Marong Township Structure Plan 2024, the township has the capacity to house approximately 8,000 residents. Bendigo Regional Employment Precinct (BREP) is projected to generate up to 6,000 direct and indirect jobs, further increasing activity and movement in and around Marong.

Marong has a strong community focus with several community groups and local businesses. For example, the Marong Cricket Club (with over 74 players across 4 senior teams and 2 junior teams) and the Marong Football and Netball Club (with over 319 players across 3 senior, 11 junior teams and Auskick kids) form the heart of local sport and recreation. The Marong Primary School currently has close to 250 students, alongside several child-care facilities in the neighbourhood to meet the growing demand. Local businesses, such as the Marong General Store, Marong Family Hotel, Marong Post Office, and Elmore Bakery Marong, play an important role in the regional economy and contribute to the broader growth of the City. 

Community connections are strengthened through the Marong Neighbourhood House and Marong Community Action Group, while essential services such as Marong Medical Practice, Marong CFA, Marong SES, and Marong Men’s Shed, who provide vital support, especially during emergencies.

Despite this rapid growth, rising population, increased school enrolments, new childcare facilities, expanding businesses, and major employment developments, Marong still has no public transport (bus services). 

During my recent engagements with the residents of Marong, the feedback has been consistent and clear, which is also reflected in the petition signatories that “Marong urgently needs public transport (bus services)”

Petition Leader: Ajay Mishra, Community Leader & Advocate
Email: info@ajay4lockwood.com.au 
Phone: 0485-603-617