Umpherston Sinkhole/Balumbul Master Plan

The City of Mount Gambier is seeking community feedback on the Draft Umpherston Sinkhole/Balumbul Master Plan.

Umpherston Sinkhole/Balumbul is one of Mount Gambier’s most treasured natural and cultural landmarks. It holds deep meaning for our community and is a must‑see destination for visitors to the region. The Draft Master Plan sets out a long‑term framework to guide the restoration, management and sustainable use of the site into the future.

The plan focuses on:

• protecting the site’s environmental and cultural values
• improving accessibility and visitor experience
• supporting respectful cultural storytelling
• ensuring the place continues to be enjoyed by locals and visitors for generations to come

About the Draft Master Plan

The Draft Umpherston Sinkhole/Balumbul Master Plan was developed by Taylor Cullity Lethlean (TCL), who are leaders in landscape architecture. TCL were also supported by specialists in the areas of urban design, engineering, lighting, tourism and wayfinding.

The Master Plan:

• recognises the unique natural, historic and cultural significance of Umpherston Sinkhole/Balumbul
• balances environmental protection with opportunities to enhance how people experience the site
• provides a clear framework to guide future decision‑making and investment over the long term

The Draft Master Plan presents a vision for the site and two concept options:

• Option 1 – Higher intervention, proposing a more comprehensive upgrade and enhanced visitor infrastructure
• Option 2 – Lower intervention, focusing on targeted improvements while retaining the site’s existing character

Both options aim to improve accessibility, safety, legibility and visitor amenities while respecting the distinctive qualities of the reserve.

Have your say!

The City of Mount Gambier is presenting the draft master plan as a concept for your consideration and feedback. We invite you to:

1. Review the Draft Umpherston Sinkhole/Balumbul Master Plan by downloading here or dropping in to the on-site Visitor Centre between 10:00am and 3:00pm daily.
2. Attend a drop‑in information session to provide feedback and speak with the team:
   • Friday 24 April: 9:00am – 12:00pm
   • Tuesday 28 April: 2:00pm – 5:00pm
   • Wednesday 6 May: 5:00pm – 8:00pm
   • Saturday 9 May: 11:00am – 2:00pm
3. Provide your feedback by complete the online survey or by using a hard‑copy feedback form, available at the Civic Centre, Mount Gambier Visitor Centre, Mount Gambier Library and Umpherston Kiosk.

The consultation is open until 15 May 2026.

Further information about the Draft Umpherston Sinkhole/Balumbul Master Plan is available by phoning (08) 8721 2500 during office hours.