Published on Friday, 15 May 2026 at 2:26:52 PM
The City has held a constructive community meeting with users of the informal horse exercise area north of Piccadilly Street, with further collaborative discussions planned in the coming weeks.
The meeting brought together City officers, local horse owners and community stakeholders to discuss concerns surrounding the unauthorised use of the land, while also exploring practical solutions to support equestrian activities into the future.
Acting CEO Lui Camporeale said the City acknowledged community frustration regarding the short notice initially provided for the removal of materials from the site.
“We understand the connection many people have to this area, and acknowledge we could have communicated earlier and allowed more time for discussion.”
“That feedback has been heard, and we are committed to improving that approach moving forward,” Mr Camporeale said.
“The meeting was an important opportunity to listen to the community, explain the broader issues involved from the City’s perspective, and begin working together on practical solutions.”
Mr Camporeale said many attendees appreciated receiving additional background information about the long history of the site and the various environmental, safety and legislative concerns associated with the area.
“The City has a responsibility to act in relation to public safety, environmental protection and compliance obligations, particularly following recent reports of vegetation clearing involving machinery, unsafe materials on site, and concerns raised by nearby residents,” he said.
“Importantly, the discussions also showed there is a genuine willingness from community members, the Goldfields Equestrian Centre, as a purpose-built facility for the community, and the City to work together to improve access and opportunities for local horse riders.”
The City confirmed the scheduled removal and clean-up of unauthorised materials at the site has been rescheduled to 26–27 May 2026 to allow additional time for communication and coordination with users.
Discussions are now underway between the City, community representatives and the Goldfields Equestrian Centre regarding practical improvements that could better support horse-related activities, including safer access connections to the Centre and opportunities for increased community involvement in running the facility.
“The Goldfields Equestrian Centre was established as a long-term home for equestrian activities in our community, and we know there is strong interest in seeing it continue to grow and evolve,” Mr Camporeale said.
“We are encouraged by the positive conversations already taking place between users and the Centre itself.”
“While unauthorised structures and activity cannot continue at this location, we are committed to supporting ongoing discussions that help improve accessibility, participation and shared use outcomes for the broader equestrian community.”
Further meetings between all stakeholders are expected to occur over coming weeks.
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