By KATHRYN BERMINGHAM
LOCAL Indigenous history will be the focus of the second stage of funding for the Emerald Heritage Walk.
The Emerald Community House was recently awarded $8680 for improvements to the walk, which guides visitors through the main attractions of the area.
The money will go towards developing and installing five interpretive signs as well as the production of accompanying walking map brochures.
Meeting with community representatives yesterday, Gembrook MP Brad Battin said the walk was an important tourist attraction for the town.
“The Emerald Heritage Walk showcases Emerald’s rich history for the benefit of locals and visitors,” he said.
“Emerald is the oldest town in the Dandenong Ranges, and its past has helped shape it into the community that it is today.
“The walk is yet another activity for tourists to the town and will ensure the next generation of Emerald residents have a deep understanding of their community’s history.”
As well as the region’s Indigenous history, the signs will also inform visitors of the post-settlement arts and literary roots.
The project was funded under the latest round of the Local History Grants Program, where 62 community groups received money for projects promoting local heritage.
