This month marks the 8th anniversary of the fire which destroyed the historical Diggers Rest Hotel.
Since the 2008 fire, the hotel has remained in ruins and despite the desperate community outcry, very little has been done to rehabilitate the site.
In the lead up to the Melton City Council election, some Watts Ward candidates have pledged to tackle the long running issue head on.
This is welcome news for the township of Diggers Rest which is currently experiencing exceptional growth.
The former hotel, now in ruins is situated at the entry of the township and is considered an eyesore by many locals and off putting for prospective home buyers looking to call Diggers Rest their home.
Whilst the community remains divided over the future of the site, the idea that some candidates are prepared to prioritise the hotel as part of their election platform, brings a level of optimism back into the community.
See facebook for comments from residents and candidates
http://www.facebook.com/diggersrest/posts/1247798791949288