Latest News
• Add My News • Search Old News

Downies Bridge replacement in Traralgon South now complete funded through the Bridges Renewal ProgramThe replacement of Downies Bridge in Traralgon South is now complete. By news@gippsland - 29th June 2022 - Back to News Local MP Darren Chester said the new concrete bridge would ensure local residents and farmers could safely use the track and crossing. "The old timber bridge was no longer fit for purpose and needed to be upgraded to ensure the safety of road users." 
Local MP Darren Chester said the new Downies Bridge would improve safety for road users Mr Chester said, "I worked with Latrobe City Council to secure funding through the Bridges Renewal Program. Replacing unsafe bridges keeps road users safe and improves connectivity in our more remote areas." Pictures from Darren Chester MP website.
Source: http://gippsland.com/ Published by: news@gippsland.com

Related Articles- Thurra River bridge and campground reopen for holidays, offering access to Croajingolong's forests, trails, and beaches
Thurra River Bridge and campground reopen for holidays, restoring access to Croajingolong's forests, trails, and beaches after fire and flood damage, with resilient infrastructure upgrades ensuring long-term safety and community enjoyment. - Stewart Road Bridge reconstruction in Kernot approved, $1.768M federal funding restores vital community infrastructure
Bass Coast Council’s Stewart Road Bridge reconstruction in Kernot approved, receiving $1.768 million federal funding, restoring safe access, supporting local residents, industry, emergency services, with tendering expected early 2026. - Thurra river bridge finally reopens after five-year delay, fueling local frustration and renewed criticism
The Thurra River Bridge has reopened after five and a half years, prompting relief and anger, with MP Tim Bull criticising prolonged delays, economic impacts, and unfinished fire recovery projects across East Gippsland. - Head south to Lake Tyers Beach, admire Stony Creek Trestle Bridge, enjoy swimming, fishing, picnics, then dine at Lake Tyers Beach Tavern
Morwell River Falls Reserve, near Boolarra, offers a fern-filled valley, cascading waterfalls, and scenic pools, just over two hours from Melbourne, perfect for a short, peaceful bushland walk. - Martin Cameron blasts Labor over Tyers bridge blunder, says government failed truckies and ignored safety warnings
Martin Cameron has criticised Labor after revelations the Tyers bridge weight limit remained at 30 tonnes months after upgrades, accusing the government of negligence and failing regional Victorians. - Second round of South Gippsland community grants now open, with drop-in support sessions in various dates and locations
South Gippsland Shire Council’s second round of community grants is open until 31 March 2026, with seven drop-in sessions available to assist local clubs and groups with applications. - Second round of South Gippsland community grants now open, with drop-in support sessions in various dates and locations
South Gippsland Shire Council’s second round of community grants is open until 31 March 2026, with seven drop-in sessions available to assist local clubs and groups with applications. - Traralgon Greyhound Racing Club track redevelopment a "big win for people power," says Martin Cameron
Racing will resume at Traralgon Greyhound Racing Club after Glenview Park track redevelopment, hailed by Martin Cameron as a "big win for people power" following community and trainer advocacy. - Stellina in Traralgon delights with woodfired pizza, Italian classics, heritage charm, and inviting courtyard dining experience
Stellina, housed in Traralgon restored 1875 Star Hotel, offers woodfired pizzas, Italian classics, creative dishes, and charming indoor or courtyard dining, blending heritage atmosphere with modern culinary flair. - South Gippsland Council adopts Eftsure to securely verify vendor payments, preventing cybercrime and payment fraud risks
South Gippsland Shire Council now uses Eftsure to securely verify vendor bank details, reducing the risk of outgoing payments being intercepted by cybercriminals or fraudsters. More information is available online. - Darren Chester welcomes $6.2M Traralgon Recreation Reserve redevelopment with upgraded facilities for Latrobe Valley sports clubs
Darren Chester welcomed the $6.2 million Traralgon Recreation Reserve redevelopment, providing modern changerooms and upgraded facilities through joint funding to support Latrobe Valley sports and long-term community participation. - Southern Rural Water supports South West Victorian farmers through groundwater access and the 'Farmer Helping Farmer' initiative
A section of the Main Northern Channel near Brewers Hill Road, Maffra, damaged by wombats, has been repaired. Water will return to full capacity, and normal delivery will resume tomorrow. - South Gippsland Seniors Festival offers free and low-cost events to connect, create, and celebrate together
South Gippsland celebrates Victorian Seniors Festival this October with 60+ free and low-cost events across nine towns, inviting over-60s to connect, create, celebrate, and enjoy community through sport, arts, learning, and fun. - South Gippsland Shire Council wishes everyone a merry Christmas and a happy new year and other council updates
South Gippsland Shire Council wishes everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, highlights skatepark opening, Australia Day awards, community programs, seasonal bin changes, and upcoming events. - South Gippsland Shire Council celebrates major project milestones and strong financial performance, and achievements in 2024/25 Annual Report
South Gippsland Shire Council's 2024/25 Annual Report highlights major infrastructure projects, strong financial management, expanded community services, and full achievement of Council Plan initiatives across the past 12 months. - South Gippsland Shire Council celebrates major project milestones and strong financial performance, and achievements in 2024/25 Annual Report
South Gippsland Shire Council's 2024/25 Annual Report highlights major infrastructure projects, strong financial management, expanded community services, and full achievement of Council Plan initiatives across the past 12 months. - South Gippsland Shire Council seeks community feedback on two proposed accessible locations for new toilet facilities in Nyora's RSL Park
South Gippsland Shire Council invites feedback on two proposed Nyora RSL Park toilet locations, offering improved safety, accessibility, and amenities. Submissions close Sunday, 12 October 2025. - South Gippsland Council invites artists to create site-specific sculpture on Great Southern Rail Trail, submissions open 2 February 2026
South Gippsland Shire Council invites artists or collectives to create a site-responsive sculpture on the Great Southern Rail Trail. Submissions for Expressions of Interest close 5 pm, Monday 2 February 2026. - South Gippsland Shire Council seeks community feedback on 50-year Fish Creek Football Netball Club lease proposal by 25 February 2026
South Gippsland Shire Council invites community submissions on a proposed 50-year lease to Fish Creek Football Netball Club for new clubrooms. Submissions close 5pm, Wednesday 25 February 2026, addressed to the CEO. - South Gippsland Shire Council congratulates the nominees and winners of 2026 South Gippsland Australia Day Awards and other updates
South Gippsland celebrated the 2026 Australia Day Awards at Meeniyan Hall, recognising outstanding citizens, youth, and community events, with winners Valerie Wilson, Erica Begg, Rhiannon Rawlins, and Loch Food and Wine Festival. - South Gippsland Shire Council extends footpath trading permits amid system update and upcoming fee changes
South Gippsland Shire Council is updating its Footpath Trading Permit system. Current permits are automatically extended until December, with new fees applying next year. Businesses will receive updated information once finalised. - South Gippsland farmers dig into practical carbon farming at Down to Earth field day
Thirty-five South Gippsland farmers explored carbon farming at Malabar Farm, learning practical ways to improve soil health, reduce emissions, and farm sustainably while sharing knowledge with peers. - South Gippsland Remembrance Day services to be held in various locations and other council updates
South Gippsland marks Remembrance Day on 11 November with local services honouring veterans. Plus, free green waste disposal, festive giving initiatives, business support, community events, and engagement opportunities across the region this spring. - South Gippsland Australia Day photography competition success and other council updates
South Gippsland updates: Australia Day photo winners announced, Summerfield Oval renamed, immunisation sessions extended, community events, workshops, youth strategy consultation, and Council job opportunities available. - Martin Cameron criticises stalled Traralgon underpass, urges overpass alternative for delayed pedestrian safety project
Morwell MP Martin Cameron criticises nearly three-year delay on Traralgon underpass, urging government to clarify plans or consider a safer overpass for students and pedestrians crossing the train line. - Meet with South Gippsland Mayor Hersey to discuss ideas or issues that matter to you and your community and other council updates
South Gippsland Shire Council is offering multiple opportunities for community engagement, upcoming events, free workshops, grants, vaccination sessions, and council services throughout Summer 2026 for residents and local businesses. - South Gippsland Eat, Drink Play Festival celebrates local food, drinks, live music, kids' activities, and outdoor fun and other updates
Eat Drink Play Gippsland returns this spring at Leongatha Railway Precinct, showcasing regional food, drink, and live music. With daytime tastings, evening entertainment, and kids' activities, it's a family-friendly celebration of Gippsland. - South Gippsland immunisation sessions extended with extra times to support community after Leongatha Healthcare Centre closure
Following Leongatha Healthcare Centre closure, immunisation sessions have been extended, offering full-range vaccines for children, adults, pregnant women, and at-risk groups, with extra times available for community bookings. - South Gippsland Shire Council invites you to submit EOI for Coal Creek food vendor on Living Heritage Days by 14 February 2026
Coal Creek seeks a local food and drink vendor for Living Heritage Days, held monthly from 7 March. Businesses can boost trade and connect with customers. Applications close 14 February. - South Gippsland Shire Council invites the community to join the Garage Sale Trail on November and other projects
Australia's biggest second-hand treasure hunt returns this November across two weekends, offering households the chance to declutter and earn cash, while bargain hunters uncover unique finds and help divert goods from landfill. - Gippsland’s Great Southern Rail Trail passes charming villages, rolling hills, murals, waterfalls, and welcoming country hospitality
The Great Southern Rail Trail stretches 146 km through Gippsland, linking rolling hills, charming villages, art-filled streets, cider tastings, waterfalls, scenic lookouts, and unforgettable cycling and walking experiences. - Korumburra hosts South Gippsland Garlic Festival 2026 with stalls, cooking demos, entertainment, and garlic-inspired food on 28 February
The South Gippsland Garlic Festival returns to Korumburra on 28 February, featuring almost 100 stalls, garlic-inspired dishes, cooking demos, chef presentations, entertainment, kids’ activities, and Garlic University workshops. - Shop Local in South Gippsland to strengthen community, support jobs, and keeping our economy thriving together everyday
Shopping locally in South Gippsland strengthens our economy, supports jobs, services, and community groups. Every dollar spent locally multiplies impact, with increased spending boosting growth by millions annually. Shop Local South Gippsland. - Darren Chester praises volunteers powering Traralgon International’s global success, showcasing Gippsland worldwide tennis event
Federal MP Darren Chester has praised Latrobe Valley volunteers for driving the success of the Traralgon International, highlighting their dedication, community pride and vital role in showcasing Gippsland globally. - Join South Gippsland Shire '16 Days of Activism' event with the theme 'Walk Against Family Violence' on
Join Council's Walk Against Family Violence on 26 November in Leongatha. Wear orange, take part in the Respect photo pop-up, and support the 16 Days of Activism campaign. - Danny O'Brien slams Labor for decade-long failure to fund replacement CFA stations in Foster and Mirboo North
Danny O'Brien has criticised Labor for failing to replace outdated Foster and Mirboo North CFA stations, saying volunteers face unsafe conditions despite years of promises and growing community contributions. - Applications open for 2026 South Coast Community Leadership Program Supporting Local Skills Development until 13 February 2026
Applications are open for the free 2026 South Coast Community Leadership Program, helping locals build skills, connect with peers, and positively impact Bass Coast and South Gippsland communities. Apply by February 13. - Martin Cameron demands Labor guarantee Traralgon PSOs won’t be removed amid redeployment to retail precincts
Martin Cameron has urged the Allan Labor Government to guarantee PSOs won’t be removed from Traralgon, warning redeployment to shopping centres could compromise safety on the region’s already under-resourced rail network. - Danny O’Brien says South Gippsland Highway receives constant patch-ups instead of proper, long-term investment
Danny O’Brien criticises South Gippsland Highway constant patch-ups, highlighting 169 maintenance tasks since July, calling for proper investment and long-term repairs instead of short-term, wasteful fixes by the Labor government. - Danny O'Brien commends South Gippsland Shire for securing Nyora transport study funding, urges further state investment
Danny O'Brien has praised South Gippsland Shire Council for securing state funding for the Nyora Transport Study, urging the Allan Labor Government to follow through with real investment and road upgrades. - Celebrate South Gippsland Eat Drink Play Festival and other council updates
Eat Drink Play Gippsland returns to Leongatha's Railway Precinct, celebrating local food, drink, and music with family fun, tastings, live entertainment, and community spirit. Tickets are selling fast - don't miss out! - Danny O'Brien celebrates Gippsland South schools receiving VicHealth Kitchen Garden grants to boost cooking and gardening education
Danny O'Brien has congratulated five Gippsland South primary schools awarded VicHealth Kitchen Garden grants, supporting hands-on cooking, gardening, and healthy eating education to build students' lifelong skills, and sustainability awareness. - Darren Chester delivers volunteer grant to support Traralgon RSL Bowls Group and boost junior participation
Darren Chester awarded a $1700 Volunteer Grant to Traralgon RSL Bowls Group, funding equipment to boost junior participation, support volunteers, and strengthen youth development as part of Gippsland's wider $63,000 program. - Register now for the 2025 Garage Sale Trail and join Australia's biggest secondhand treasure hunt this November
Registrations are open for the Garage Sale Trail this November - host a sale, declutter, earn cash, or find amazing secondhand bargains. - Join the conversation and help shape South Gippsland and other council projects, programs and initiatives
Join the conversation this spring! Share your ideas on South Gippsland's future through community consultations, including Pre-Prep, Draft Plans, Governance Rules, and the 2026/27 Budget. - Danny O'Brien seeks explanation for South Gippsland entering fire danger period earlier than neighbouring regions
Danny O'Brien has urged the Emergency Services Minister to explain why South Gippsland entered the Fire Danger Period early, leaving farmers concerned about limited time for essential burn-offs and cleanup. - Gippsland Water completes Baw Baw Leak Detection Program, repairing hidden leaks to improve service reliability and reduce water loss
Gippsland Water's Baw Baw leak detection program surveyed 425 km of mains, uncovering 128 leaks. Repairs improve service reliability, reduce water loss, and support proactive network maintenance across the region. - Craig Watts Park playground in Neerim South closing temporarily for upgrades from 28 January to 31 March 2026
Craig Watts Park playground in Neerim South will be upgraded with new climbing, swing, and junior play zones, closing 28 January to 31 March 2026, as part of Council’s renewal program. - Danny O’Brien urges Labor government to urgently fix South Gippsland Highway dangerous, deteriorating road conditions statewide
Danny O’Brien urges the Allan Labor government to urgently repair the deteriorating South Gippsland Highway, citing potholes, failing patches, and community frustration across key stretches before the busy holiday period. - Have your say on key council plans, policies, and the future direction of South Gippsland through current engagement opportunities
South Gippsland Shire Council invites community feedback on key draft plans, policies, and the 2026/27 Budget, with in-person engagement opportunities and "Coffee with a Councillor" sessions in October. - Regional all abilities participation grants is now open to boost inclusive sports opportunities for people with disability in regional communities
The Allan Labor government's Regional All Abilities Participation Grants offer up to $25,000 for clubs to boost disability inclusion through equipment, training, travel support, and all-abilities sports programs. - Baw Baw Shire to gain two new kindergartens located at the Neerim South Primary School and Warragul Regional College opening in 2028
Baw Baw Shire will gain two new kindergartens at Neerim South and Warragul, opening in 2028, easing local demand and supporting families as part of the State’s Best Start reforms. - Cr Gilligan nominated for Mary Rogers Award, for protecting South Gippsland’s coastline and advancing storm surge solutions
Councillor Gilligan was nominated for the Mary Rogers Award, recognising her leadership in protecting South Gippsland’s coastline and securing $80,000 to explore innovative Venus Bay saltmarsh storm surge solutions. - Gippsland Water promotes hydration and sustainability with popular portable drinking fountains at Traralgon International tennis tournament
Gippsland Water’s portable drinking fountains at the Traralgon International help players and spectators stay hydrated, promote tap water, support community events, and reduce single-use plastic for environmental sustainability. - Darren Chester and Martin Cameron launch petition urging action on long-delayed Traralgon Princes Highway bypass project
Darren Chester and Martin Cameron have launched a community petition urging state and federal governments to prioritise funding and design work for the long-delayed Traralgon Princes Highway bypass to ease congestion. - Cr Nathan Hersey elected as Mayor and Cr Brad Snell as Deputy Mayor for South Gippsland and other council updates
Councillor Nathan Hersey was elected Mayor and Councillor Brad Snell Deputy Mayor of South Gippsland Shire for 12 months, marking Hersey’s second and Snell’s first term in these roles. - Neerim Artsfest 2026 celebrates sculptural art, culture, and creativity in Neerim South from 28 February to 15 March
Neerim South hosts the free 2026 Artsfest from 28 February-15 March, showcasing spectacular sculptures, local culture, scenic walks, parks, markets, food, drinks, and creative experiences near Melbourne. - Martin Cameron slams Allan Labor government over year-long failure to clarify ownership of Traralgon vacant buildings
Nationals MP Martin Cameron criticised Labor's year-long failure to clarify ownership of Traralgon vacant buildings, after multiple ministerial referrals left residents concerned about neglect, squatters, and ongoing government inaction. - Inverloch dairy farmer Mick Hughes highlights community collaboration survive South Gippsland's dry season challenges
Inverloch dairy farmer Mick Hughes credits collaboration with the Inverloch Cluster and local water authorities for navigating South Gippsland's recurring dry conditions and improving farm drought resilience. - Danny O’Brien thanks volunteers and communities for celebrating Australia Day across South Gippsland with the awards and ceremonies
Danny O’Brien thanked volunteers, councils, and community groups for Australia Day events, celebrating new citizens, recognising local award recipients, and highlighting Gippsland South’s community spirit and contributions. - Kay Street Car Park construction progressing smoothly, delivering major new parking capacity for Traralgon CBD by 2026
Construction of Traralgon’s five-level Kay Street Car Park is progressing on schedule for mid-2026, delivering 430 new CBD spaces and supporting local businesses, accessibility, and future regional growth. - East Gippsland Business Support Voucher Program boosts small businesses through tailored mentoring and strategic growth guidance
Orbost Snowy River Cycling benefited from East Gippsland Council Business Support Voucher Program, receiving tailored mentoring that strengthened business planning, resilience, and growth, enabling expansion and long-term success in the region. - Have your say on the 2027 transition to Pre-Prep and help shape early learning in South Gippsland
South Gippsland Shire Council is seeking feedback from parents and carers to help shape how the Victorian government's 2027 Pre-Prep program is delivered locally to meet community needs. - Applications for Baw Baw Shire Arts and Culture with grants up to $2,000 is now open until 8 February 2026
Baw Baw Shire Council is offering grants up to $2,000 for local artists and creatives, supporting community-focused arts projects, collaboration and creative development, with applications open until 8 February 2026. - Darren Chester urges Gippsland’s young athletes to apply for Local Sporting Champions grants now available until 31 January 2026
Federal MP Darren Chester is urging Gippsland’s young athletes to apply for Local Sporting Champions grants supporting travel and competition costs. Eligible juniors aged 12-18 can apply before 31 January 2026. - Join Omeo's visitor economy through tourism mapping and justice precinct masterplan vision sessions on 14 September 2025
Omeo visitor economy's future will be shaped through community sessions presenting the Tourism Ecosystem Mapping Report and Draft Justice Precinct Masterplan, highlighting heritage, recreation, and opportunities to attract investment. - Danny O’Brien congratulates local football and netball clubs recognised through this year’s TAC Club Rewards Program
Gippsland South football and netball clubs have secured TAC Club Rewards funding, promoting safe driving and road safety awareness through community-led initiatives supported by AFL Victoria. - East Gippsland Water invites community feedback through annual customer satisfaction survey this October
East Gippsland Water is inviting customers to complete its annual satisfaction survey, providing feedback on water quality, service, and community engagement. Responses will guide future improvements and participants can win a $100 bill credit. - Gippsland Water invests $550,000 to upgrade Peterkin Street sewer pump station, ensuring reliable wastewater services for Traralgon
Gippsland Water is investing $550,000 to upgrade Traralgon largest sewer pump station, replacing ageing pipes to ensure reliable wastewater services for 5,200 households. Works are underway and due for completion in September. - East Gippsland Water donates hay to support farmers through Lions Club ‘Need for Feed’ program
East Gippsland Water donated two semi loads of hay to support drought-affected farmers in Victoria’s south-west, demonstrating sustainability, community support, and its commitment to recycling and environmental stewardship.
|
|