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Latrobe Crime Watch News Letter Latrobe Police Service Area February 2013Coming Events, Hot Spots, Neighbourhood Watch Safer Communities Group Reports, Quad Bike Safety, Protecting Your Property. By Malcolm Lawrence - 22nd February 2013 - Back to News Latrobe Crime Watch News
Latrobe Police Service Area
Neighbourhood Watch Creating Safer Communities
February 2013
IMPORTANT NUMBERS
Emergency 000, Mobiles 112, State the service you want ¡V Police, Ambulance or Fire.
Police: Boolarra 5169 6222, Churchill 5122 1790, Moe 5127 2222, Morwell 5131 5000
Traralgon 5174 0900
Crime Stoppers
1800 333 000
Neighbourhood Watch & Safer Communities
Unit ¡V Latrobe PSA, L/S/C Brett Godden, 5131 5085, 0400 050 749.
brett.godden@police.vic.gov.au
Facebook: Senior Constable Brett
Child Protection 13 12 78, Consumer Affairs 5116 5701, Dept Primary Industry 136186.
Dispute Settlement Centre 1800 658 528, Latrobe City 1300 367 700.
Nurse on Call 1300 606 024, Poisons Information 13 11 26,
VicRoads 131170
COMING EVENTS: OPEN INVITATION TO ALL LATROBE VALLEY RESIDENTS
Wednesday 20th February - Churchill District and Community Association Meeting - Churchill Community Hall - 7 pm
Sat 2nd March ¡V Rotary Playground Celebration - Morwell Town Common ¡V Police/NHW Display 10 am Monday 4th March - Moe/Newborough Town Meeting - - Moe RSL ¡V Albert Street, Moe ¡V 7pm
Tuesday 5th March - Traralgon Town Meeting - Traralgon Police Station, Kay St, Traralgon ¡V 7pm
Wednesday 6th March - Morwell Town Meeting ¡V Morwell RSL ¡V Elgin Street, Morwell ¡V 7pm
Wednesday 13th March - Yallourn North Town Meeting - Yallourn North Bowling Club¡V7 pm
HOT SPOTS ¡V POLICE NEED THE PUBLIC¡¦S HELP
THEFT OF FIRE FIGHTING TRAILER FROM RURAL CHURCHILL PROPERTY
On Friday 8th February 2013 the victim purchased a fire fighting Rapid Spray trailer. The victim left the trailer at the side of a garage on his rural property Mackeys Road Churchill in clear view from the road.
On Sunday the 10th February 2013 the victim sighted the trailer at 9.15 a.m and when he returned at 12 noon the trailer was gone.
The trailer tank was full with 1000 litres of water. In addition to the trailer, there is a steel toolbox fixed to the front of the trailer. It is valued at $10,000.
At about 11 a.m. on the day the trailer was stolen, a male attended at the house on the property from where the trailer was stolen. This male is a person of interest for this incident and police would like to speak to him.
This person is described as male, wearing a cap, glasses, green vest and long dark hair to his shoulders.
Police urge anyone who may have information related to this incident to contact Crime Stoppers on: 1800 333 000 or visit: www.crimestoppers.com.au or ring Latrobe Criminal Investigation Unit on 5131 5049 or Senior Constable Atkinson at Churchill Police on 5122 1790.
PROTECTING YOUR RURAL PROPERTY FROM
THEFT FROM FARMS AND COUNTRY SHEDS
Times have been tough enough for the man on the land in recent years. With so much to cope with, it is easy to forget something minor like locking your shed. That¡¦s what happened to me, and it cost me thousands of dollars¡¦ worth of equipment. I¡¦ve learned my lesson. It is pretty hard to stop determined thieves but your chances are a lot better if you make life as difficult as possible for them,¡¨ said a farmer from the Western District.
Crime Stoppers and Victoria Police are concerned about the volume of equipment, from sophisticated tractors to rolls of fencing wire, being stolen from farms. Farms are often relatively easy targets for thieves. The end result is increased insurance, security and law enforcement costs which we all have to bear.
There is a lot people living on isolated properties can do to protect themselves from thieves:
„h Be alert and secure your property
„h Remove keys from machinery
„h Lock doors of machinery cabs
„h Use lockable fuel caps
„h Store large farm equipment in secure sheds or highly visible areas
„h Store valuable equipment in a secure building out of sight, behind a locked door
„h Return broken down machinery to the shed
„h Use high security padlocks and lock outbuildings when you are not using them
„h Consider building a lockable metal cage inside a building for tool storage
„h Install outdoor security lights where you have valuable equipment
If you become aware of any information about individuals who have engaged in theft from farms and other country properties, contact your local police or Crime Stoppers. The smallest piece of information could lead to a criminal charge and a safer environment for you and your family.
Police urge anyone who may have information related to any farming or livestock theft incident to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppers.com.au or ring Latrobe Criminal Investigation Unit on 5131 5000.
JANUARY NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH/SAFER COMMUNITIES GROUP REPORTS
CHURCHILL and DISTRICT MEETING and CRIME REPORT
PREVIOUS ISSUES: There were no December or January meetings.
ROBBERY - 1 for January (Nil December) - One offender charged with robbery during January.
ASSAULTS - 6 for January (6 December) - In all incidents except one an offender has been charged. Police are waiting to interview a suspect in relation to another assault.
ARSON - 1 for January (Nil December) - On 8th January unknown offenders lit a small grass fire in Phillip Pde. The fire was lit around 5.00pm. Police are making follow up enquiries.
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 10 for January (8 December) - Five offenders charged. One offender faces three counts as a result of three separate incidents whilst one person has been cautioned in relation to damage on 5th January. A vehicle parked in the driveway of a residence in Catterick Cres had ¡§KB¡¨ and ¡§BJ¡¨ written on it overnight 11th January.
BURGLARY - 3 for January (6 December) - A rural garage in Jumbuk Rd, Jeeralang Junction was entered when unknown offenders have cut a hole in a door between 7th and 9th January. Another garage was entered in Dunbar Gr overnight 13th January with power tools and an esky stolen. Two grinders and a trailer were stolen from a factory yard in McCormick St between 25th and 28th January.
THEFT FROM MOTOR VEHICLE - 4 for January (1 December) - Overnight 14th January unknown offenders smashed a window of the victim¡¦s vehicle allowing entry to push the vehicle along Ikara Way. Once they moved the vehicle they stripped four mag wheels, a boot lock, bonnet, battery, radiator, radio, speakers, jack and wheel brace from the vehicle.
THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE - 2 for January (1 December) - Both vehicles stolen during January have been recovered.
THEFT - 3 for January (2 December) - On 14th January a small amplifier was stolen from the ground floor of the Leisure Centre. A trailer was stolen from the front yard of a residence in Walker Pde overnight 18th January whilst a kneeboard was stolen from a campsite at the pondage on 26th January. This is the second kneeboard to be stolen recently.
ISSUES RAISED FEBRUARY: Nil issues notified.
MOE/NEWBOROUGH MEETING and CRIME REPORT
PREVIOUS ISSUES: There were no December or January meetings.
ROBBERY - 2 for January (Nil December) - Both incidents are recorded as attempted robberies with both victims threatened with physical violence. On 18th January a female was threatened by two males demanding money which was not handed over. On 22nd January two males demanded cigarettes from a male who refused. He was assaulted before retaliating causing the offenders to run from the scene.
ASSAULT - 15 for January (29 December) - Twelve offenders charged. Police are following up suspects in relation to an assault on Princes Fwy on 24th January whilst another is being sought in relation to an assault in Kingsford St on 27th January.
ARSON - 3 for January (5 December) - All three incidents are deemed criminal damage by fire. On 1st January two youths are suspected of setting a bench alight in Dinwoodie Reserve. A vague description has been given of the youths but not enough for police to identify possible offenders. Elizabeth St Primary had two small fires lit on 13th and 16th December.
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 37 for January (32 December) - Four offenders charged. 18 of the damages are either residential or vehicle windows being smashed by rocks or other implements with no attempt to enter the premises or vehicle. One of the damages involved a rock being thrown at a passing vehicle on the Princes Fwy on 9th January.
BURGLARY - 10 for January (13 December) - Burglaries were evenly spread between residential and retail premises. The Moe United Soccer Club was targeted twice in a couple of days. Overnight 10th unknown offenders broke a window on the club rooms whilst on 13th January they used the same broken window to gain access and ransacked the rooms.
THEFT FROM MOTOR CAR - 8 for January (11 Dec) - All except two occurred in residential streets or driveways. Six of the eight were either unlocked, had windows left down or were open canopies on utes. One incident involved two unlocked vehicles in a driveway with keys left in the ignition of one vehicle. The victim is probably very lucky not to have had the vehicle stolen.
THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE - Nil for January (4 December)
THEFT (OTHER) - 16 for January (12 December) - One offender charged. A number of the thefts relate to victims leaving the items behind or in places and walking away. Police remind the community that although there is the offence of theft by finding it is the responsibility of owners to be aware of where their property is at all times.
ISSUES RAISED FEBRUARY: Scams sent through the mail ¡V Discussion on avoiding becoming a victim. Condition of Ollerton Reserve ¡V Letter sent to Latrobe City. Will follow up with CFA.
MORWELL MEETING and CRIME REPORT
PREVIOUS ISSUES: There were no December or January meetings.
ROBBERY - 3 for January (Nil December) - One offender charged with one count of armed robbery and two counts of robbery. On 19th January two offenders entered a shop in Bruton St (near Well St) and made demands for money which were not met. The offenders left the shop and were last seen in Mulcare St. On 23rd January 3 offenders entered a service station in Vestan Dr demanding money and armed with what appears to be a bat and knife. The victim locked himself in a room and the offenders left the service station.
ASSAULT - 29 for January (32 December) - In all incidents an offender or offenders have been charged with some facing multiple charges. Police are following up suspects in relation to an affray in George St on 24th January.
ARSON - 7 for January (4 December) - Two of the incidents relate to small grass fires in Commercial Rd (near railway line) and Harold St on 27th January. A stolen motor vehicle was recovered burnt out in Maryvale Rd on 11th January. CFA investigators and police are investigating a house fire in Spry St on 20th January.
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 19 for January (33 December) - Eleven offenders charged. Apart from a window being damaged at the Top Pub, all other damages were in residential areas with letterboxes and windows being damaged.
BURGLARY - 15 for January (27 December) - Three offenders charged with one facing two counts. Five of the burglaries were on residential sheds/garages which had been left unlocked or open with power tools or chainsaws the main items stolen. Alcohol was also stolen in two incidents.
THEFT FROM MOTOR CAR - 3 for Jan (11 Dec) - All the thefts from motor vehicles involved the syphoning of fuel from vehicles in driveways. One incident was in Christina St on 5th January whilst two vehicles had fuel caps forced on 19th January in Haywood St.
THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE - 3 for January (5 December) ¡V All three motor vehicles are still outstanding. They are:
FR617 a 2007 Suzuki DRZ40E motorcycle yellow/blue in colour stolen from Winston Crt 4th January, 2013.
XIM424 a 2003 Mitsubishi Sedan red in colour stolen from Buckley St on 13th January, 2013 and
YEH671 a 2011 Holden Sedan silver in colour stolen from Keat Crt on 26th January, 2013.
THEFT - 13 for January (11 December) - Two offenders charged. A purse was stolen from a handbag which had been left for a short time on a seat. Police remind the community that leaving bags behind or open in trolleys gives opportunistic thieves a walk up start to steal the items and then use the credit cards contained in them.
ISSUES RAISED FEBRUARY: Graffiti and recidivist offenders ¡V Strategies discussed ¡V March or April newsletter to be dedicated to this ongoing Latrobe wide issue.
TRARALGON MEETING and CRIME REPORT
PREVIOUS ISSUES: There were no December or January meetings.
ROBBERY - 2 for January (2 December) - One offender charged. Police are investigating an incident in Anderson St in which a 13-year-old male was assaulted by two males, who stole the victim¡¦s phone. The males are described as 15 ¡V 16 years, Caucasian, both wearing t-shirts and shorts. One male was wearing a red and white cap.
ASSAULT - 32 for January (29 Dec) ¡V Twenty-eight offenders charged. Police are following up suspects in relation to four other incidents. Two incidents in Kay Street on the 18th and 19th involved victims being assaulted by offenders known to them.
ARSON - 4 for Jan (1 Dec) - Police are making follow up enquiries in relation to three of the fire incidents. A stolen vehicle was set alight on Old Melbourne Rd overnight 21st January. Bushes outside a home in Chenall Cres were set alight on 30th January.
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 25 for January (26 December) - Six offenders charged. Two vehicles in Park Lane and Ambrose St were damaged by graffiti and panel damage overnight 28th January. The tag ¡§MOISK¡¨ was graffitied in toilets at a licences premises in Hotham St on 22nd January.
BURGLARY - 16 for January (32 December) - Four offenders charged with two facing two counts each. Overnight 5th January unknown offenders entered a residential shed stealing a number of power tools and a trailer. Evidence suggests that the trailer was used to transport the items from the address in Norman St.
THEFT FROM MOTOR VEHICLE - 15 for January (20 December) - One offender charged. Eight of the thefts were committed in residential driveways or outside addresses with four of the vehicles left unlocked. CD players, coins, iPods, an esky with a wallet inside and a bag containing clothing were amongst the items stolen.
THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE - 4 for January (4 December) - Two offenders charged with attempted theft of motor vehicle. Two of the vehicles have been recovered with one burnt out. The only outstanding vehicle is a Honda CRF150 motorcycle stolen from Kyandra Dr, Tyers on 3rd January.
THEFT - 24 for January (11 December) - Three offenders charged. Rods and reels were stolen from a boat on the front lawn of a property in Mitchell Dr on 2nd January whilst a bait board was stolen from another boat in Northern Ave on the same date.
ISSUES RAISED FEBRUARY: Tax Office scam received - Discussion re scams/phone calls targeting the Valley at the moment.
BOOLARRA/YINNAR DISTRICT CRIME REPORT
ASSAULTS - Nil for January (2 December)
PROPERTY DAMAGE - Nil for January (1 December)
BURGLARY - Nil for January (2 December)
THEFT - 1 for January (2 December) - Overnight 26th January a wood splitter was stolen from a vacant block in Limonite Rd. Evidence suggests that the splitter was dragged to a trailer before leaving the area.
YALLOURN NORTH MEETING and CRIME REPORT
PREVIOUS ISSUES: There was no January meetings.
ASSAULT - 1 for January (2 December) - One offender charged with three counts of make threats to kill as a result of an incident in January.
ARSON - Nil for January (1 December)
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 2 for January (2 December) - One offender charged with criminal damage whilst police are following up three suspects in relation to damage to a vehicle in Quarry Rd on 12th January.
BURGLARY - Nil for January (3 December)
THEFT FROM MOTOR CAR - Nil for January (1 December)
THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE - Nil for January (1 December)
ISSUES RAISED FEBRUARY: Security Issues ¡V general discussion about household and personal security to prevent theft.
PROTECT YOUR LIVESTOCK and REPORT FARM CRIME
Many farmers fail to report livestock theft because they do not think police can do much about a relatively small scale report. But that one report might provide the final piece of information needed for an investigating officer to solve and complete a livestock investigation and charge a thief.
In 2011 Victoria Police created the Livestock and Farm Crime Specialists Group to support and improve investigations into stolen livestock and other farm crimes. Police from across the state, who already had knowledge and experience in livestock and farm crime, received additional training so they could lead investigations and be a local point of contact for farmers.
44 Agricultural liaison Officers (AGLO¡¦s) were appointed to rural areas to enhance investigations into farm crime, assist other police and to liaise with farmers and farm organisations such as the Department of Primary Industries and the Victorian Farmers Federation.
Victoria Police estimate the value of stolen livestock in Victoria at more than half a million dollars per year. It is a significant cost to farmers and ultimately to the community as a whole.
Victoria Police encourages farmers to protect themselves from stock loss by tagging their livestock and not leaving this until the day before a major sale.
The National Livestock Identification System (NLIS) is Australia¡¦s system for livestock identification. It enables livestock to be tracked from their property of birth to slaughter.
You can read more about the Livestock and Farm Crime Specialists Group and Victoria Police¡¦s AGLO¡¦s in Anthony Loncaric¡¦s report ¡§Taking Stock¡¨ in the Spring 2012 Edition of Victoria Police¡¦s ¡§Police Life¡¨ magazine. Just follow this link http://issuu.com/policelife/docs/policelife_spring_2012 or type Police Life Magazine into your search engine.
REMEMBER, NO MATTER HOW SMALL YOUR LOSS, ALWAYS REPORT LIVESTOCK THEFT.
CRIME PREVENTION TIPS ¡V INVENTORY YOUR PROPERTY
Neighbourhood Watch recommends you make an itemised inventory of all your valuable household and personal items. Where possible include a model, serial number, colour, distinctive marks and approximate value. Consider inscribing your licence number on large, valuable and sturdy items such as the television, computer, DVD player etc. You can even engrave your child¡¦s bicycle but make sure you place the letter ¡¥V¡¦ (for Victoria) before your driver¡¦s licence number.
You can download a copy of our inventory at:
http://www.nhw.com.au/Eastern-Region/Latrobe/Forms
LOCAL LAWS - FENCES TO CONTAIN LIVESTOCK
Fencing requirements for livestock is one area covered by Latrobe City¡¦s Local Law No 2. Clause 48 deals with the effective provision of fencing.
Under this clause, the owner or occupier of land used for the grazing of livestock must ensure that fencing on that land is adequate for the purpose of preventing livestock from straying onto any adjacent road.
Local Laws Officers may serve a Notice to Comply on the owner or occupier of the land requiring him or her to install, repair, replace or modify fencing and gates to prevent the livestock on the property from straying onto any adjacent road. Failure to comply with the Notice to Comply can result in a penalty of $500.
Clause 63 prohibits the grazing of livestock on roads within the Municipality without a permit and this also carries a penalty of $500. Livestock close to roads can be a serious distraction and danger for the drivers of vehicles and we also need to take into account the welfare of the animal.
Similarly, under clause 55 owners must not drive livestock along any road more than twice in any one calendar year without a Local Livestock Permit issued by the Council.
Clause 64 reminds the community of the power given to Local Laws Officers under the Livestock Act 1994 to impound livestock or secure the livestock in a place offering safe custody where cattle are found grazing on roadsides. Any cattle found on any road within the Municipal District can be impounded:
(a) unless the livestock are enclosed by an electric fence or are in the effective control of some person;
(b) which the Council has resolved is not available for driving or grazing of livestock; or
(c) after dusk and before dawn; or
(d) where the Council has given neither Permit nor exemption allowing those cattle on that road.
In January alone this year, Local Laws Officers have responded to more than 40 incidents of livestock straying from their paddocks onto adjacent land or onto roadways. These unsafe situations can lead to the injury or death of both people and animals.
Owners of livestock are encouraged to contact administration at Local Laws on 1300 367 700 so their contact details can be added to Local Laws¡¦ Livestock Contact List. This will enable officers to contact owners in the event they are called to respond to animals located outside their boundaries.
Landowners and the owners of livestock in Latrobe City are reminded of their responsibility to properly maintain their fences.
Latrobe City¡¦s Local Law Number 2 may be viewed at: http://www.latrobe.vic.gov.au/Our_Services/Other_Services/Local_Laws
SAFE STORAGE OF FIREARMS
It is not unusual for rural burglaries to involve the theft of firearms. As we a doing a rural edition it is timely to remind firearm owners of their responsibilities and the legal requirements for the safe storage of firearms. Gun safes such as that pictured are the most secure option.
SCHEDULE 4 in the Firearms Act 1996 sets out the storage requirements for longarms as follows;
Longarm licences for category A and B longarms
(1) The firearm must be stored in a receptacle-
(a) which is constructed of hard wood or steel that is not easily penetrable; and
(b) which, if it weighs less than 150 kilograms when it is empty, must be fixed to the frame of the floor or the wall of the premises where the firearm is kept in such a manner that it is not easily removable; and
(c) which, when any firearm is stored in it, is locked with a lock of sturdy construction.
(2) If more than 15 firearms are stored on the premises where the firearm is stored, the premises must be fitted with an intruder alarm system.
(3) Any cartridge ammunition for the firearm must be stored in a locked container separate from the
receptacle in which the firearm must be stored.
To further secure your firearms you could consider building a lockable metal cage inside a farm building for firearm and tool storage and consider installing external security lights.
QUAD BIKE SAFETY ¡V DON¡¦T BECOME A STATISTIC
Police in Latrobe would like to encourage all users of quad bikes to be vigilant and ride within their limitations. Many quad bike accidents occur in remote areas, often without anyone else present. This makes the potential for serious injury or death very high.
Quad bikes continue to increase in popularity as they are useful machines for farmers in tending to crops and livestock. They are quick and efficient. However, they are also extremely dangerous when not used prudently and within safety guidelines. They are also a significant cause of death and injury on farms with approximately 10 people dying in quad bike incidents on Australian farms every year.
All quad bike users are encouraged to download or obtain a copy of the Work Safe publication ¡§A Handbook for Workplaces ¡V Quad Bikes on Farms¡¨. It emphasises quad bikes are not all-terrain vehicles. They are not stable, robust machines with ¡¥go-anywhere¡¦ capabilities.
The Work Safe handbook is for farmers, their family members, employees and contractors. It is full of quad bike information including legal and occupational health and safety requirements and includes a number of checklists to assist farmers and farm managers identify and control risks when using quad bikes.
WorkSafe¡¦s ¡§A Handbook for Workplaces ¡V Quad Bikes on Farms¡¨ can be downloaded at http://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/9830aa804071f518a442fee1fb554c40/wsv1128WEBsmall.pdf?MOD=AJPERES
HOT SPOTS ¡V POLICE NEED THE PUBLIC¡¦S HELP
BURGLARY AND THEFT FROM SHED AT JEERALANG JUNCTION PROPERTY
Sometime between 9 p.m. on Monday 7th and 10 a.m. on Wednesday the 9th of January a rural shed in Jumbuk Rd, Jeeralang Junction was entered when unknown offenders cut through colourbond sheeting after failing to raise the roller door.
Property stolen included a red and black Honda lawn mower; an orange and black Stihl brush cutter; a red and black Honda brush cutter; a white gas cylinder; a green Jackaroo camp stove; a Coleman tent; a black and grey Webber camp stove; a food processor, money box full of coins, service medals, jewellery box containing bracelets, earrings and rings and a Mongoose BMX bicycle.
Police urge anyone who may have information related to this incident to contact Crime Stoppers on: 1800 333 000 or visit: www.crimestoppers.com.au or ring Detective Senior Constable Ferguson at Latrobe Criminal Investigation Unit on 5131 5049.
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: malcolml@dcsi.net.au
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Latrobe City Council has ranked fifth in Victoria for community satisfaction, scoring 64.6 in the 2026 Snap Send Solve Index, exceeding both national and Victorian averages. - Latrobe City endorses draft Moe Activity Centre Plan to guide future town centre growth and development
Latrobe City Council endorsed the draft Moe Activity Centre Plan for public exhibition, outlining long-term CBD growth, planning reforms, improved public spaces and transport, with Planning Scheme Amendment C155 exhibition proposed for late 2026. - Latrobe City launches Forestree platform showcasing 63,000 public trees across urban and rural townships
Latrobe City Council has launched Forestree, an interactive platform showcasing more than 63,000 public trees, 600 species and ongoing tree planting, watering and maintenance efforts. - Latrobe City Council schedules 40 kilometres of road upgrades across municipality
Latrobe City Council will resurface 40 kilometres of local roads during 2026/27, including resealing and asphalt works across six communities to improve safety, extend road life and prevent potholes. - Six Latrobe Valley businesses receive funding to diversify, boost productivity and strengthen supply chains during economic transition
Six Latrobe Valley businesses will receive funding through the Gippsland Supply Chain Resilience Program to improve productivity, purchase equipment, expand markets and strengthen supply chains amid regional economic transition. - Open House Latrobe Festival offers behind-the-scenes access to region's unique buildings, stories, communities and cultural heritage from 9 - 11 October
Open House Latrobe will run from 9-11 October, offering behind-the-scenes access to more than 30 sites while celebrating the region's history, culture, industries, environment and future. - Latrobe Valley commuters will receive longer trains and more seats under a Nationals-Liberals plan to increase regional rail capacity and reduce crowding
The Nationals and Liberals plan to allocate five additional V’Locity sets to Traralgon and Bairnsdale, delivering 1,100 extra seats and reducing regional rail crowding. - Open house Latrobe opens doors to historic, cultural and industrial sites across the region for visitors to explore and discover from 9 - 11 October 2026
A chance to visit the most intriguing buildings and places in Latrobe City, normally behind closed doors. The festival will open up significant buildings, infrastructure and landscapes. - Nationals demand stronger policing as rising Latrobe Valley crime fuels growing community safety concerns and frustration
The Nationals say rising Latrobe Valley crime and fewer police officers demand urgent Labor government action, calling for stronger policing, tougher laws and better resources to restore community safety. - Darren Chester met Latrobe Health Assembly representatives to discuss tackling youth food insecurity, poor nutrition and regional health priorities
Gippsland MP Darren Chester is exploring funding for a Latrobe Valley initiative involving local health and education organisations to provide free healthy meals twice weekly, addressing student hunger, poor nutrition and wellbeing. - Labor government boosts Latrobe Valley businesses with funding to strengthen supply chains, expand markets and support future growth
The Carroll Labor government is funding six Latrobe Valley businesses to upgrade equipment, software and skills, strengthen supply chains and expand markets. - Rob Moffatt officially joins Latrobe City Council as Morwell River Ward's newly elected councillor after by-election and oath of office
Latrobe City Council has welcomed Rob Moffatt as Morwell River Ward's newly elected councillor. He formally commenced after taking his oath, joining the nine-member council for the remainder of its current term. - Swooping season returns across Latrobe, with council urging residents to take precautions around nesting birds
Latrobe City Council is urging residents to stay alert during swooping season, avoid nesting areas where possible, check Victoria’s Swooping Bird Map and take precautions when walking outdoors. - Liberals and Nationals to audit Latrobe Valley coal overlays to unlock land for housing and industrial development
The Liberals and Nationals will audit Latrobe Valley coal overlays to identify outdated restrictions, potentially unlocking land for housing and industrial development while retaining protections where mine safety and ground stability remain at risk. - Flight Test Range Command Centre opens at Latrobe Airport, boosting Gippsland's drone and aerospace industries and economic diversification
A new Flight Test Range Command Centre at Latrobe Regional Airport will support drone and aerospace innovation, attract investment and create jobs across Gippsland's emerging Advanced Air Mobility sector. - Flight test command centre opens, strengthening Latrobe's role in Australia's advanced aviation innovation sector and creating new opportunities
Latrobe's new Flight Test Range Command Centre has opened at Latrobe Regional Airport, supporting advanced aviation research, drone technology, investment, manufacturing growth and skilled jobs across the region. - New Flight Test Command Centre opens at Latrobe Airport, boosting advanced aviation jobs, investment and innovation
A new Flight Test Range Command Centre at Latrobe Regional Airport has opened, supporting advanced aviation research, attracting investment, strengthening local businesses and creating new jobs across Gippsland. - Stallholder applications open for 2026 Latrobe City Children's Expo connecting families and community services
Stallholder applications have opened for the 2026 Latrobe City Children's Expo, offering organisations and entertainers the chance to connect with thousands of local families during National Children's Week celebrations. - Australia Post invests in Morwell parcel facility, boosting Latrobe City jobs, economic diversification and future growth opportunities
Australia Post has begun construction of a 10,000-square-metre parcel facility in Morwell, consolidating regional operations, supporting local jobs and strengthening Latrobe City’s economic diversification and investment opportunities. - Nationals target Premier Ben Carroll over undelivered Latrobe Valley manufacturing jobs and broken election promises
The Nationals accused Premier Ben Carroll of failing to deliver 500 promised SEA Electric manufacturing jobs in Morwell, criticising Labor’s Latrobe Valley transition and economic record. - Martin Cameron seeks government answers over delays threatening Latrobe Magnesium's commercial project and regional investment
Martin Cameron is pressing the Victorian government over delays affecting Latrobe Magnesium’s commercial project, warning investment and hundreds of Latrobe Valley jobs could be lost. - Regional Development $750,000 investment expands employment and education support for 120 Latrobe Valley young people through 2028
The Victorian government is investing a further $750,000 in the Ladder Step Up Latrobe Valley Program, supporting 120 young people with employment, education, training and independence opportunities through 2028. - Martin Cameron backs Regional road funding to fix dangerous, neglected Latrobe Valley roads and bridges
A proposed $288 million Country Roads and Bridges program would give Latrobe City $1.5 million annually for four years to repair and upgrade local roads and bridges. - Hazelwood North CFA to receive long-awaited new station under Nationals and Liberals' Latrobe Valley infrastructure commitment
The Nationals and Liberals have pledged a new three-bay Hazelwood North CFA station, replacing inadequate facilities and supporting volunteers through increased regional infrastructure funding. - Martin Cameron renews call for PSOs at Morwell and Moe Stations, citing rising Gippsland public transport crime figures
Morwell MP Martin Cameron has renewed calls for PSOs at Morwell and Moe stations, citing a 49 percent increase in Gippsland public transport crime between 2021 and 2024. - Gippsland Water renews 1950s Tyers raw water pump station to improve reliability and protect regional emergency water supply infrastructure
Gippsland Water has renewed its 1950s Tyers raw water pump station, improving drainage, protecting pipework and testing all four pumps to maintain reliable emergency supplies for Tyers and Traralgon treatment plants. - Melina Bath accuses Labor of failing to curb illicit tobacco crime and escalating violence across regional Victoria
The Nationals have criticised Labor over ongoing illicit tobacco crime, citing alleged abductions, violence, intimidation and suspected illegal stores, while questioning Victoria’s tobacco licensing scheme effectiveness. - Mobile Service Centres bringing government support across South Gippsland communities an August and September
Australian government Mobile Service Centres will visit 12 South Gippsland communities, offering Medicare, Centrelink, myGov and Veterans’ Affairs assistance, with accessible facilities and Wi-Fi. - Darren Chester says Gippsland’s 15 suspected illicit tobacco store closures highlight organised crime concerns and calls for tobacco excise reform
Gippsland MP Darren Chester says 15 suspected illicit tobacco store closures highlight organised crime concerns, advocating an 80 percent tobacco excise cut alongside stronger enforcement to combat the black market. - Darren Chester says Gippsland’s 15 suspected illicit tobacco store closures highlight organised crime concerns and calls for tobacco excise reform
Gippsland MP Darren Chester says 15 suspected illicit tobacco store closures highlight organised crime concerns, advocating an 80 percent tobacco excise cut alongside stronger enforcement to combat the black market. - The Nationals blame Labor government after 84 more jobs cut at Maryvale paper mill in Latrobe Valley
Nationals MP Martin Cameron blamed the Victorian Labor government after Opal announced 84 job cuts at Maryvale, arguing forestry policy and timber supply failures caused ongoing workforce losses. - East Gippsland Shire Council consults service street businesses on proposed Bairnsdale taxi rank relocation and Nicholson street mall improvements
East Gippsland Shire Council is consulting Service Street businesses on a proposed Bairnsdale taxi rank relocation, while Nicholson Street Mall upgrades aim to improve safety and amenity. - East Gippsland Council introduces free Payble online service offering ratepayers flexible, convenient and automatic payment options for rates
East Gippsland Council has introduced Payble, a free, secure online service allowing ratepayers to automate payments, choose flexible schedules, check balances and manage rates conveniently. - Gippsland commuters stranded after V/Line services end early, prompting calls for reliable regional rail services
Melina Bath criticised Gippsland rail disruptions after AFL fans were stranded following an early service cutoff, calling for reliable regional transport and promising 1,110 additional seats on Traralgon and Bairnsdale services. - Moe Town Hall seeks resident organisation to activate historic venue through regular community arts programs until 30 September 2026
Latrobe City Council has opened expressions of interest for an organisation to establish an ongoing residency at Moe Town Hall, delivering regular arts, cultural and community activities while keeping the venue accessible. - Live and Loud at GPAC brings AFL Grand Final action, family fun and entertainment to Traralgon on 26 September 2026
Latrobe City Council will host Live and Loud at GPAC on September 26, featuring family activities, entertainment, a ticketed musical-acrobat performance and free live screening of the 2026 AFL Grand Final. - Moe Inline Hockey Championships secure five-year council funding, expected to boost $15M into local economy through visitor spending
Latrobe City Council will provide $100,000 over five years to support Moe’s Australian Inline Hockey Club Championships, expected to generate $15 million locally through visitor spending and accommodation. - Cr John White recognised for 10 Years of dedicated service representing East Gippsland communities on council
East Gippsland Councillor John White has been recognised for 10 years of service, including two terms as Mayor, advocating for local priorities and representing communities across government levels. - Wellington Shire Council retains in-house library service following review confirming best value for community needs
Wellington Shire Council has endorsed the outcome of its Wellington Libraries Service Review, confirming library services will continue to be delivered as is. - Nationals and Liberals pledge PSOs at Morwell and Moe Stations, mobile CCTV trailers and 24-Hour Moe Police Station reopening
The Nationals and Liberals have pledged PSOs at Morwell and Moe stations, mobile CCTV across the Latrobe Valley, and restoring Moe Police Station to 24-hour operations under their community safety plan. - Labor invests $120,000 to modernise Traralgon Library with new study pods and improved community spaces
Harriet Shing joined Latrobe City Mayor Cr Gibson and councillors to announce a $120,000 library upgrade, jointly funded by government and council - Melina Bath seeks Labor explanation on Gippsland children face specialist dental service cuts, longer waits and costly travel for treatment
Melina Bath says Gippsland children face longer waits after regional pediatric dental services were cut, forcing families to travel to Melbourne for specialist treatment. - Maryvale Recreation Reserve completes $920,000 upgrade, enhancing accessibility, facilities, safety and recreation opportunities for the community
Maryvale Recreation Reserve has completed a $920,000 refurbishment, upgrading the Latrobe Cricket Club pavilion, Peter Siddle Oval, drainage, pathways and accessibility, as part of Latrobe City's broader $5 million program. - Wellington Shire Council backs West Sale Airport for proposed Gippsland Police Academy training campus
Wellington Shire Council will advocate for a Gippsland Police Academy at West Sale Airport, citing existing infrastructure, the former TAFE campus, expansion capacity and potential regional jobs, investment and training opportunities. - Darren Chester calls for greater funding certainty to protect Heyfield’s only childcare service after missing out on commonwealth support
Federal Member Darren Chester is urging greater funding certainty for regional childcare services after Heyfield’s only provider, Kids House, missed out on Commonwealth funding, threatening its future and affecting more than 30 families. - Labor government invests $750,000 to support young Gippslanders into education, training and employment opportunities
The Victorian Labor government is investing $750,000 in Ladder Step Up Latrobe Valley, supporting 120 young people facing barriers to education, training and employment through 2028. - Have your say on the Planning Scheme Amendment C161egip - Lakes Entrance Northern Growth Area (Revised) to unlock growth until 21 September 2026
East Gippsland Shire Council is simplifying planning controls in Lakes Entrance Northern Growth Area, aiming to unlock housing growth, reduce red tape and support development over the next 30-plus years.
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