Back in 1972 - our first year

MEAFEC's first year was busy and exciting. It was highlighted by a number of campaigns to retain the natural beauty of Mount Eliza.

While not always successful we certainly made our presence felt, and at all times we tried to ensure that our campaigns were vigorous and constructive.

Probably our two most important initial campaigns were aimed at preventing the sewage overflows at Ranelagh and Kunyung beaches, and attempts to preserve the John H. Butler Reserve for passive recreation.

Another campaign was important because it sparked the foundation of MEAFEC. Mrs E. Wayman, our Foundation President and first Life Member, wrote to the Mornington Shire Council in March 1972, asking if trees could be planted and the area improved following the continuation of Acheron Avenue over the creek to join Rutland Avenue.

Mt Eliza Regional Park
Few people are aware that it was Meafec who initiated proposals to link all odd parcels of land east of Mt Eliza into overall Parkland reserve – including 2 old tip sites, Melbourne Water Trunk Easement, Balcombe Creek, the undeveloped section of Canadian bay Road and Humphries Road, and The Emil Madsden Reserve.  This idea was adopted by the Mornington Shire and Frankston Council and has become the Mt Eliza Regional Park. This park was opened by Conservation Minister Birrell in November 1992.

MEAFEC made strong representations over the Tower Road sub-division.

A Steering Committee was formed by MEAFEC, met on October 4, 1972, and was in general agreement that Mount Eliza was in no position to determine its own welfare as a community due to having minority representation on two separate councils.