Defence Housing Australia (DHA) is excited to announce it is commencing the masterplanning process for the development of the former Defence rifle range site, located on the corner of Rifle Range Road and Martini Streets, Mount Lofty.
The Toowoomba site in Queensland was acquired by DHA from the Department of Defence in April last year. The intention is to create a sustainable residential community for Defence families and the local community, with land lots to be made available for public purchase when developed.
DHA Development Manager, Rob Winters, said a significant portion of the 379 hectare site will remain undeveloped.
‘We plan to retain part of the site for access and recreational use by all members of the Toowoomba community, including the potential for a contribution of land to expand Jubilee Park adjoining the site to the East.’
Mr Winters said a comprehensive community engagement process would now begin, as the award-winning residential developer works towards formulating a masterplan for the site.
‘The community engagement process is always a key commitment by DHA,’ Mr Winters said. ‘We will be writing to neighbours, stakeholders and others who have expressed interest in the future of the site. We welcome and encourage input as this will be an important part of our masterplanning process, which will then inform the potential for future development of the site.
‘Additionally, we are in the process of appointing a consultant team so we can understand the site characteristics, opportunities, constraints and project requirements. Recent preliminary survey work on site is a first step in this process.’
Mr Winters said he was delighted with the keen interest already being expressed by the community, which has resulted in the identification of a significant tree being retained on the site.
‘As an organisation with close links to Defence, we’re so pleased to discover a 100-year-old Moreton Bay Fig tree on the site, planted by L/Sgt Eric French who served in WW1. We always look for local connections with Defence to incorporate into our projects, and this wonderful story is set to be the centrepiece of our development at Mount Lofty.’
The Mount Lofty landholding represents an opportunity to significantly contribute to the Toowoomba region, for the benefit of the whole community. Engagement with the community is the first step towards creating a masterplan which aims to be respectful to the site, inclusive of all stakeholders, and ultimately provide a sustainable asset to the Toowoomba region.
Further information can be found at www.mountloftytoowoomba.com.au or by calling 1800 100 204.