Dookie Community Plan
Dookie is a proud rural community with a strong sense of identity, supported by active local groups, volunteers, and community organisations. The town continues to focus on attracting new residents and young families to support long-term growth and vitality.
The population of Dookie is approximately 517 and is situated in a valley between Mt Major and Mt Saddleback 29km from Shepparton. Dookie has distinctive natural features, a mix of community activities for all ages, progressive agricultural production and a viable educations campus.
The Dookie Community Action Plan 2026 has been developed by the local community, led by the Dookie and District Development Forum (DDDF), in partnership with Greater Shepparton City Council and it captures the priorities, ideas, and aspirations of residents and provides a clear roadmap to support a vibrant, connected and sustainable future for Dookie.
Community achievements
Since its establishment in 2002, the Dookie and district Development Forum has played a key role in delivering projects that strengthen community life in Dookie.
Some of many achievements include:
- Development of Stages 1&2 of the Dookie Rail Trail.
- Tree Planting initiatives to enhance the local environment
- Installation of outdoor dining pod to support local activity
- Promotion of Aboriginal art and culture initiatives
- Delivery of health and wellbeing workshops
- Hosting community events such as Neighbour day and Carols by Candlelight.
- Installation of a community defibrillator
- Development of rail trail promotional materials
- Installation of a table tennis table at the Youth SPOT.
Key priorities
The Plan focuses on:
- Growing local business, tourism, and events
- Creating more activity and opportunity within town
- Improving infrastructure, facilities, and services
- Enhancing the look and feel of Dookie
- Protecting and celebrating the natural environment.
- Advocating for key projects like Dookie Rail Trail.
Dookie Community Planning Group Action Plan 2025–2028 was received and noted by Council on Tuesday 24 March 2026
Get involved
- Greater Shepparton Community Plan Liaison
Phone: 03 5832 9700