But as paint begins to chip on the edge-of-town signage, is the community looking for something more than just a punchline to attract tourists?
For the past 15 years, visitors to Kyabram have been greeted by the familiar beige and blue sign welcoming them to the “Kyabram Fauna Park Town”.
But does that sign represent what makes Kyabram unique today, and is it time for a revamp?
The question was raised by Renee Pichler, speaking on behalf of the Kyabram Development Committee, at the August Campaspe Shire Council meeting.
She was seeking direction and clarification from councillors about how to proceed in obtaining new town signage, in line with previously outlined goals in Kyabram’s Place-Based Plan adopted in 2023.
One of the eight “medium term projects” listed in the 2021-2030 Kyabram Place-Based Plan was the improvement of visual appeal of the town entrances and installing informational and directional signage to let visitors to the area know what is available in town.
The council plan projected the “medium term projects” to take one to three years to come to fruition, but there have not been any changes made in this area yet.
What’s next for Kyabram’s vision?
Kyabram seems to be the epicentre of unlocked tourism potential.
With one of Zoos Victoria’s four locations just one kilometre from the CBD, a vibrant football culture and numerous dedicated volunteer groups eager to welcome visitors, the world is Kyabram’s oyster when it comes to attracting people off the highways.
But for all this, it seems the town remains best known for Kath and Kel’s “mystery flight to Kyabram” reference in season two of Kath & Kim.
So how do local residents see the future of the town?
It’s a question that Campaspe Shire Council is hoping to explore in the future.
In response to Ms Pichler’s question, council director of communities Jo Bradshaw said that while the development of new signage had not been included in its 2025/26 budget, it was “proposed” that officers include the updated signage for consideration in the 2026/27 budget instead.
Ms Bradshaw said the project would be co-ordinated by council’s tourism, arts and culture team with “comprehensive community engagement” with all residents, groups, schools and development committees to create a sign consistent with the town’s image.
“Community consultation will allow a unique touch to be added to each town’s respective sign to ensure the sign reflects the uniqueness of each community,” Ms Bradshaw said.
Kyabram Development Committee president Tania Chiswell said she was happy to have clarification about the town signage for Kyabram.
“Town signage that reflects Kyabram’s unique attributes is important to continue to promote our beautiful town as a great place to live and visit,” Ms Chiswell said.
“Kyabram Development Committee looks forward to working with the council as part of the public consultation process to see this project through to completion.”
So, while council consultation is still a way off, the question for Kyabram remains: Does its identity lie in a 20-year-old sitcom reference, or in the unique community spirit and attractions that define it today?
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