Wandong and Heathcote Junction are hidden gems.

Together they have a unique identity, a strong school community, tight-knit families, open space, bushland and a country-town character that should not be lost.

That is why I am focused on protecting Wandong's township character.

Labor has already acted to protect important areas from inappropriate growth and sprawl.

Victoria's planning laws and protected boundaries mean these decisions cannot simply be waved through by council, developers or landowners.

That protection matters. But legislation alone does not stop the pressure from developers, landbankers and speculators who look at townships like Wandong and see the next opportunity for smaller lots, more subdivision and more development.

I understand why locals are wary. Once a town's character is chipped away, it is very hard to get it back.

I do not support planning decisions that would chip away at what makes Wandong unique.

I do not want to see inappropriate small-lot subdivision, poor planning or development that changes the town.

Recent practical action to upgrade the school, modernise the community centre and reseal roads reflects something important: towns do not have to get bigger to get better.

Some developers claim that residents want the town opened up.

So I want resident views on the record.

Your feedback will help me make the strongest possible case to council, the Planning Minister and any future planning process. It will also make it harder for developers, landbankers and speculators to claim that Wandong wants its township character weakened, carved up or traded away.

Wandong's character is worth protecting.

My job is to stand with locals to make sure that happens.