My Vision for Scenic Hill

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Preserving and Enhancing Griffith's Natural Heritage.

Introduction:

Scenic Hill, our cherished natural landmark in Griffith, has long been an integral part of the community’s identity. However, despite its popularity, the hill has suffered from neglect, with limited resources allocated for its upkeep. Over the last term, Council completed a Plan of Management for the hill and a community committee was formed putting a spotlight on this important resource.

This report outlines what I have learned as Chair of the committee, including the challenges we face, and my proposed initiatives to ensure its preservation and enhancement for future generations should I be elected for another term.

History:

In 2023, Griffith City Council began drafting a Plan of Management (POM) for Scenic Hill. As part of this process, we put out a questionnaire to gather input from the community on how they use the hill and what improvements are needed. The response was overwhelming, highlighting just how much Scenic Hill means to our community.

Recognising this, Cr Shari Blumer, introduced a motion to create a Scenic Hill User Group which I seconded. Our goal was to bring stakeholders together regularly to discuss the ongoing issues and prioritise the hill’s needs. I was appointed Chair of this committee, which has been meeting monthly since February 2024. The committee is diverse, with representatives from user groups such as Feral Joggers, Mountain Bike Riders, local residents, Dalton Park, Motor Cross, Pioneer Park, and the Griffith Aboriginal Land Council.

What We Learned:

Through the Scenic Hill User Group, we quickly discovered the complexity of the challenges facing the hill. With only $6,000 allocated annually for its maintenance and no dedicated personnel or department responsible for its management, we realized that addressing the hill’s needs is a daunting task. Additionally, the hill is a patchwork of land responsibilities, with areas managed by the Council, Crown Lands, and under Aboriginal Land Claims.

I also learned that Scenic Hill is not only one of Griffith’s most frequented attractions but also one of its most complained-about, particularly in relation to Hermit’s Cave and the nearby lookout. Issues such as vandalized signage, frequent rubbish dumping, and general neglect are prevalent. Despite these challenges, I’m heartened by the community members who volunteer their time to maintain the hill. I’d like to give special mention to Denis Couch for his work at Rotary Lookout and to the Feral Joggers and Mountain Bikers who have been instrumental in maintaining tracks and pathways and cleaning up rubbish.

Hermits Cave signs are weathered and vandalised and desperately need attention.
The lookouts are not accessible nor inviting
In spite of volunteers cleaning up the hill, the rubbish always returns.
If re-elected, my main priorities for Scenic Hill include:
  • Advocating for dedicated council leadership and responsibility for our natural heritage sites like Scenic Hill and Lake Wyangan.
  • Securing increased budget allocation for Scenic Hill’s maintenance and improvement.
  • Addressing urgent needs such as improving Hermit Cave signage, managing weeds, and tackling rubbish issues.
  • Investigating the creation of a community volunteer register and marketing strategies to encourage ongoing maintenance of the hill.
  • Sourcing additional funding through Crown Grants, EPA Illegal Dumping Grants, and other rubbish mitigation programs.
  • Collaborating with the Griffith Local Aboriginal Lands Council (GLALC) to secure the rPPP grant for the Scenic Drive Corridor.  
Imagine: Accessible lookouts over Griffith
Imagine: Safer well maintained walking and running tracks
Imagine: A park complete with BBQ, seats and shade as a launch point to a history and arts trail with particular emphasis on Wiradjuri history.
Imagine: A place for Wiradjuri cultural events and education
IMAGINE… If the Griffith Local Aboriginal Lands Council (GLALC) succeeds in securing the fully federally funded rPPP grant, the project will focus on several key areas: conducting Aboriginal cultural and heritage studies, developing lookouts, creating walking tracks, and performing feasibility studies for a proposed Wiradjuri Cultural Centre. The grant will also fund the appointment of a project manager, who will coordinate these efforts, build partnerships between the GLALC, Griffith City Council, and other stakeholder groups, and guide potential future development.
Conclusion:

Scenic Hill is a vital part of Griffith’s natural and cultural heritage, and I’m committed to ensuring it receives the attention and resources it deserves. My goal is to preserve and enhance Scenic Hill for today’s residents and future generations. By fostering strategic leadership, securing increased funding, and encouraging community collaboration, I believe we can transform Scenic Hill into a well-maintained and celebrated landmark.

Moreover, the hill holds incredible potential for Indigenous tourism, offering a unique opportunity to showcase Wiradjuri culture and heritage. By working closely with the Griffith Local Aboriginal Lands Council, we can develop a cultural tourism experience that not only honors the traditional custodians of the land but also enriches the cultural fabric of Griffith. Along with the Pioneer Park, Italian Museum, Feral Joggers, mountain bikers and walkers, this vision will help make Scenic Hill a destination that reflects the pride, history, and diverse heritage of our whole community. 

Authorised by Jenny Ellis, 5 Kooba Street, Griffith NSW 2680

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