Gannawarra 2025 - Gannawarra Shire Council

Section 8 | Future Scan Summary
A separate McKINNA et al report has been produced
called Future Focus 2025 which outlines the scenarios
facing Gannawarra Shire in detail. The findings of the
future scan are summarized here for reference.
8.1 Life in Gannawarra today
The stakeholder research indicated clearly that the
drought has left many residents in the shire, both young
and old, with a sense of despair. Recent rains however,
appear to be uplifting for a number of farmers.
Gannawarra citizens are largely proud of their
communities. There is a strong sense of ‘belonging’ at
township level with the sporting clubs playing an
important role in this.
Participants in the stakeholder research describe the
defining culture of the district as being one of
“resilience”. The reason residents say they like living in
Gannawarra is because of its so-called ‘small town
values’ which they describe as follows:
Gannawarra Shire Council 2010
“Knowing everyone by name”
“Looking out for each other”
“Pitching in when someone needs help”
“A volunteering tradition”
The weather and environment which provide opportunities
for water sports, walking and fishing are aspects of the
lifestyle here that are much valued by residents. The fact that
international water sports events are now held on
Gannawarra’s lakes is a source of local pride.
Gannawarra 2025, Strategic Community Plan 23