Plans afoot for Mortlake’s Market Square
Published on 22 July 2025
Moyne Shire Council has adopted a new landscape design master plan for the much-loved Market Square in Mortlake.
The design is based on feedback from a highly engaged community, facilitated by consultants at Fraser Collective Design.
Mayor, Cr Karen Foster said around 50 people attended in-person feedback sessions, and almost 100 online survey responses were received for the concept and draft designs.
“The strong community involvement shown by the people of Mortlake gives us confidence that the master plan will meet the needs of the community,” Cr Foster said
“A clear message we heard from the community was to keep many of the square’s features as they are,” she said.
However, Cr Foster said there were elements and additions that were also identified that would improve the reserve, including
- Full or partial fencing of the playground
- Enhancements to the existing playground equipment
- Building a path along the Townsend Street frontage
- Adding more trees and seating, and better integration of the barbecue shelter with its setting
- Improving opportunities for public information about events and town features
- Safer road crossing from the pool to the reserve
- Adding a structure for permanent shade and shelter that could also be used for the Christmas Carols each year
- Commemoration of the past community
“We’re extremely grateful to the people of Mortlake for their involvement, and especially to Jencie Lawford for initiating the original petition about playground safety and then advocating for the master plan process.”
“The outcome will be a public space for Mortlake that is safe, offers increased accessibility, and makes the most of the space and facilities.”
“The master plan provides a roadmap for future funding bids to implement its recommendations, and guidance on replacing aging infrastructure such as playground equipment and park furnishings.”