Latest News
• Add My News • Search Old News
Working party to explore freight prospects from rail upgradeA Latrobe City working party to explore freight prospects stemming from the current rail upgrade will seek to build on the State Government’s infrastructure investment. By Latrobe City Council - 27th July 2005 - Back to News The charter of the working party consisting of Latrobe City Mayor Councillor Bruce Lougheed, Councillor Graeme Middlemiss and a senior economic development officer, will include highlighting the economic, social and environmental benefits of using rail to transport freight to industry.
"This is also in line with the Victorian Government’s target to increase the proportion of freight transported to and from ports by rail from 10 percent to 30 percent by 2010," Cr Lougheed explained.
Cr Lougheed said the benefits of using rail to transport freight to industry not only flow to industry itself, but to the whole community. "Firstly there are reduced costs to the Commonwealth and Victorian Governments for premature damage to roads infrastructure, which in turn means savings for the taxpayer," Cr Lougheed said.
"Improved liveability in our region from a reduction of heavy transport on our roads would also be a big win for our community," Cr Lougheed said.
Cr Lougheed said that by examining the improved freight prospects that can emerge from the rail upgrade, Council is seeking to build on the State Government’s investment.
"The rail upgrade has involved a significant amount of works including the removal of existing sleepers and rail; installation of heavier, high-speed rail supported by new ballast; upgrading safety protection at level crossings with flashing lights, boom barriers and improved road surfaces; and the installation of a modern signalling system served by a new fibre optic network.
"As such, the rail upgrade is laying a practical and sustainable foundation for the transport of people and freight, for many years to come. It also comes at a time when the community is seriously questioning the wisdom of hauling heavy freight by road," Cr Lougheed added.
Councillor Graeme Middlemiss said that at a local level, Council also has an ongoing commitment to the creation of a regional logistics hub.
"This commitment has been demonstrated with the purchase of a 69 hectare rail-capable site and the adoption of a recently completed Logistics Precinct Master Plan. The project is further identified as a key driver in Council’s long term strategic plan Latrobe 2021 – The Vision for Latrobe Valley. A principal element of this document was to support and promote the development of a regionally significant freight and logistics precinct," Cr Middlemiss said.
"The site is situated between the Gippsland Intermodal Freight Terminal (GIFT) and the Princes Highway in Morwell. Council has secured support from a number of firms who are investigating site options for the establishment of a major warehousing facility.
"The possibility of a logistics precinct located in Gippsland represents a significant opportunity for the Latrobe Valley as well as the wider Gippsland region. Indeed, it is Council’s belief that the project is one of state significance and will provide powerful evidence of the worth of the upgraded rail infrastructure on this corridor," Cr Middlemiss said.
"Council is also working with the Commonwealth Government and earlier this year prepared a submission for a House of Representatives Inquiry into the integrating of regional rail and road networks and their interface with ports. As a result of a written submission, Council was invited to attend the hearing and provide evidence," Cr Middlemiss added.
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: news@gippsland.com
Related Articles- Explore the 2026 Adventure range this May with new models, upgrades and free camping innovations on 8-9 May 2026
Explore the upgraded 2026 Adventure range on May 8-9, featuring J-Pod, Adventurer 48V and Crosstrak models, with expert guidance for free camping enthusiasts. - Discover Noojee historic Trestle Bridge, explore lush forests, rail trails, waterfalls, and heritage sites in charming old timber town
Explore Noojee historic trestle bridge, Victoria’s tallest, stroll rail trails, chase waterfalls, fish the Latrobe River, and enjoy cafés, pubs, lush forests, and the majestic Ada Tree nearby. - Community invited to join Walhalla project working groups shaping tourism and business opportunities for World Heritage future
Baw Baw Shire Council invites community members to join Tourism, Infrastructure, or Business Support Project Working Groups for Walhalla, helping shape sustainable development linked to the Victorian Goldfields World Heritage Bid. - Explore Mitchell River National Park’s dramatic gorges, lush rainforest, and sacred Aboriginal sites on the Den of Nargun Loop Walk
Discover Mitchell River National Park’s dramatic gorges, razorback ridges, and lush rainforest on the Den of Nargun Loop Walk, a sacred Aboriginal site northeast of Sale, 3¼ hours from Melbourne. - Yarram - Explore Heesco Town murals, vibrant street art, lush rainforests, coastal walks, local cuisine, and Gippsland heritage
Yarram, a charming Gippsland town, features over 25 Heesco murals, lush rainforests, coastal walks, local seafood, wineries, heritage sites, and the Great Southern Rail Trail. - Rokeby to Noojee $4M trail upgrade officially opens, enhancing accessibility, safety, and visitor experience across region
A $4 million upgrade of the Rokeby to Noojee Trail has officially opened, delivering improved surfaces, facilities, signage and lookouts, with $3 million Victorian government funding and strong community contributions celebrated. - East Gippsland Rail Trail upgraded and officially opened, boosting tourism, and local economy across the 96km trail
The final 11.46 km of the East Gippsland Rail Trail is complete, fully resurfaced, and open, boosting tourism, supporting local businesses, and providing a high-quality recreational asset for the community. - Wellington students explore aviation careers through industry tour across Sale and Longford facilities on 17 March 2026
Students from across Wellington Shire have taken a hands-on step into the world of aviation, experiencing firsthand the career opportunities available right on their doorstep through an Aviation Taster Tour hosted by Wellington Shire Council. - Tim Bull criticises delays upgrading Gippsland rail infrastructure supporting Bairnsdale freight terminal and heavy haulage rail access
Tim Bull says missing rail upgrades are preventing heavy freight access to Bairnsdale’s Fenning Intermodal Freight Terminal, despite the Victorian government’s 2022 investment to restore rail freight services. - Marlo and Newmerella Primary students explore Snowy River through hands-on environmental learning experience with East Gippsland CMA
Marlo and Newmerella students joined the East Gippsland CMA for hands-on Snowy River activities, learning about ecology, sustainable fishing, fish and bug identification, and taking home local plants. - Wellington Shire Council invites local businesses to free Defence 101 networking event in Port of Sale on 25 March 2026
Wellington Shire Council and ODIS invite local businesses to a free Defence 101 event on 25 March, helping them explore opportunities to supply large organisations locally. - Latrobe City endorses Victory Park master plan guiding staged Traralgon park upgrades, enhancing community, recreation and connectivity
Latrobe City Council has endorsed a Victory Park precinct master plan for Traralgon, guiding staged upgrades across five parks to improve recreation, environment, connectivity and community spaces. - One Gippsland welcomes Federal Budget priorities but says freight and renewable infrastructure investment was missed
One Gippsland welcomes Federal Budget housing, cost-of-living and skills measures, but says lack of freight and renewable energy infrastructure investment overlooks Gippsland’s growth needs and future economic potential. - Dinni Birraark Walk upgrades in Newlands Arm to improve safety, accessibility and environmental protection along foreshore trail works
East Gippsland Shire Council will upgrade a 372-metre section of the Dinni Birraark Walk, improving safety, accessibility and shoreline stability, with works beginning 15 June alongside Paynesville Landcare Group. - Dock Cafe upgrade at Port of Sale ensures minimal disruption while enhancing community space ahead of reopening in 5 June 2026
Wellington Shire Council is pleased to share news of a short upgrade planned for the Dock Cafe, located at the Port of Sale. The works will help ensure the cafe continues to be a welcoming place for locals and visitors to enjoy. - 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. - Omeo’s Day Avenue upgraded with safer streets, accessible paths, bike parking, greenery, and Victorian government investment
Omeo’s Day Avenue upgraded with safer streets, accessible paths, signage, parking, bike facilities, greenery, and $200,000 Victorian government investment, creating jobs and enhancing experiences for locals and visitors. - Mallacoota streetscape upgrade complete, enhancing safety, drainage and landscape ahead of busy Christmas holiday season
Mallacoota’s upgraded streetscape, funded with $1.5 million, improves pedestrian safety, drainage, and landscaping, preparing the coastal town for a busy Christmas holiday season, says local MP Darren Chester. - Copelands Road $4.9M upgrade complete, enhancing traffic flow, safety, pedestrian access, and bicycle facilities
The $4.9 million Copelands Road upgrade is complete, featuring improved traffic flow, safety, Moe River bridge, drainage works, footpaths, and a shared bicycle path, delivered on time and within budget. - Latrobe City Council enhances Seymour Street Car Park safety, lighting, access, and parking experience
Latrobe City Council upgrades Seymour Street Car Park with improved lighting, safety measures, CCTV, and future real-time signage, ensuring accessible, secure all-day parking and enhanced confidence for CBD workers and visitors. - Princes Highway $2M upgrade improves safety and access for pedestrians at Lakes Entrance and Kalimna
Nearly $2 million in joint government funding will upgrade Princes Highway at Lakes Entrance and Kalimna, improving pedestrian safety, access, and traffic flow with new medians, lighting, safety platforms, and path reconstruction. - Latrobe City Council endorsed applications for the 2026/2027 Black Spot Program, targeting high-risk crash sites across the shire
Latrobe City Council has applied for the 2026/2027 Black Spot Program, proposing safety upgrades at Traralgon, Morwell, and Newborough crash sites. Successful projects will involve community consultation during the design phase. - Wellington libraries upgrade with RFID technology, enabling faster borrowing and improved user experiences across all branches over six months
Wellington libraries are upgrading with RFID technology, introducing self-loan stations, automated return chutes, and smart bins, improving borrowing efficiency, reducing manual handling, and allowing staff to focus on programs and services. - Latrobe City allocates $7.3M surplus to key community infrastructure and improvement projects
Latrobe City Council's $7.3 million surplus will fund key community projects, infrastructure upgrades, and maintenance, with $3.4 million reserved to leverage future State and Federal funding partnerships. - Latrobe City seeks community members for its Visitor Economy Advisory Committee to support tourism, events and regional growth, EOI closes 5 July 2026
Latrobe City Council is seeking Expressions of Interest for its new Visitor Economy Advisory Committee, inviting community members with tourism, events and business experience to support regional growth and strategy delivery. - Latrobe City seeks Advisory Committee members to strengthen regional gallery and creative industries strategy, submit your EOI by 22 May 2026
Latrobe City Council seeks advisory committee members to guide Latrobe Regional Gallery and creative industries, boosting strategy, community engagement, cultural participation, and a stronger local creative economy. - Latrobe City Council seeks community feedback on Draft Economic Development Strategy 2025 - 2031 to help shape long-term economic growth
Latrobe City Council invites community feedback on its Draft Economic Development Strategy 2025-2031, aiming to build a diverse, inclusive, resilient economy, create jobs, attract investment, and shape the city’s future. - Latrobe City Council seeks community feedback on the future of Moe Gardens Caravan Park as lease nears end
Latrobe City Council is inviting community feedback on the future of Moe Gardens Caravan Park, with the current operator's lease expiring in May 2026 under Crown Land Leasing Policy requirements for open and impartial processes. - Latrobe City Mayor Sharon Gibson criticises State Budget for favouring metro community connectors funding over regions
Latrobe City Mayor urges fair State Budget funding, criticising metro focus of Community Connectors program and calling for stronger regional support and engagement on community safety. - 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. - Latrobe City invites community feedback on draft 2026-27 Budget supporting infrastructure, grants and new FOGO waste service by 25 May 2026
Latrobe City invites community feedback on its 2026/27 Draft Budget, supporting infrastructure, public spaces, grants, and FOGO service, with major local projects included. - Latrobe City Council finalises 2026/27 advocacy priorities for strategic economic, infrastructure and community development initiatives
Latrobe City Council has endorsed its 2026/27 Advocacy Agenda, prioritising economic development, infrastructure, and community safety initiatives, guided by a tiered framework and strengthened by councillor and community feedback. - Latrobe City Council endorses Economic Development Strategy guiding growth, investment, workforce and industry diversification through 2031
Latrobe City Council has endorsed an Economic Development Strategy to guide growth, investment, workforce development, and industry diversification, creating a vibrant, inclusive, and nationally significant industrial hub by 2031. - Latrobe City launches investment campaign showcasing strength, innovation, and opportunities across Gippsland
Latrobe City Council launched an investment campaign showcasing business strength, innovation, and opportunities positioning itself as Gippsland's hub for growth, transformation, and future industries. - Latrobe City Mayor Cr Gibson urges governments to reconsider brown coal oil production to address Australia’s fuel crisis and energy security
Latrobe City Mayor urges State and Federal governments to reconsider brown coal-to-oil production as a solution to Australia’s fuel crisis and long-term energy security challenges. - Latrobe City urges the Victorian Minister for Roads and Road Safety urgent activation of Traralgon Bank Street and Princes Highway traffic lights
Latrobe City Council urges Victorian Ministers to urgently activate the Bank Street–Princes Highway traffic lights in Traralgon, addressing safety concerns after completed works remain non-operational since 2018. - Latrobe City invites photographers and videographers to capture the region’s beauty in the ‘Latrobe Through Your Lens’ until 15 December 2025
Latrobe City Council invites photographers and videographers to enter the eight-week Latrobe Through Your Lens competition, celebrating local people, places, and culture, with prizes including gift cards and getaway experiences. - Latrobe City invites community input to shape the 2026/27 budget and future priorities, submit feedback by 17 November 2025
Latrobe City Council is seeking community input to help shape the 2026/27 Budget. Share your priorities via council's Have Your Say platform by 5pm, Monday 17 November 2025. - Latrobe City introduces lime green FOGO bins from 1 July 2026, diverting food scraps from landfill to compost at Morwell’s Pinegro facility
Latrobe City introduces lime green FOGO bins from 1 July 2026, diverting food scraps from landfill for composting at Morwell’s Pinegro facility into usable soil products. - Latrobe City Council highlights strong financial performance and community-focused progress in its 2024/2025 Annual Report presentation
Latrobe City Council’s 2024/2025 Annual Report shows strong financial sustainability, strategic progress and disciplined planning, highlighting new health-focused development and continued delivery of essential services and infrastructure. - Latrobe City Council and Gippsland partners launch 'No Filter: Real Stories' vaping prevention campaign created by and for young people
Latrobe City Council, with Gippsland councils and GRPHU, launches No Filter: Real Stories, a youth-designed vaping prevention campaign sharing honest, relatable local experiences to reduce harm and empower Gippsland young people. - Latrobe City invites community to celebrate International Rose Garden Festival Morwell with lights, music and fun on 7-8 November 2025
Latrobe City Council invites everyone to the free International Rose Garden Festival Morwell, 7-8 November 2025, featuring night lights, live music, workshops, market stalls, performers, and over 4,000 blooming roses. - Latrobe City invites local artists to join new Public Art Artist Register for murals and creative city projects until 10 February 2026
Latrobe City Council invites local artists to join its Public Art Artist Register, offering paid mural opportunities, enhancing public spaces, supporting tourism, and connecting artists with future creative projects. - Latrobe City Social Inclusion Action Group application is now open, submit expressions of interest by 24 April 2026
Latrobe City Council seeks community members to join its Social Inclusion Action Group, helping guide funding decisions, strengthen connections, and improve inclusion and wellbeing, with applications open until April 24, 2026. - Latrobe City Council opens applications for free 12-week industry growth program supporting business expansion until 16 January 2026
Latrobe City Council’s Industry Growth Program offers 12 weeks of business education, coaching, and mentoring, helping 15 eligible business leaders develop growth strategies and expand their businesses, free of charge. - Latrobe City Council invites residents to participate in 2026 Community Satisfaction Survey by phone on 16 February and 27 March 2026
Latrobe City Council’s annual Community Satisfaction Survey will contact 400 households by phone, gathering confidential feedback to improve services and council performance across the city. - Latrobe City Council endorses Transition Reserve Policy to drive economic diversification, growth and long-term job creation
Latrobe City Council has endorsed a Transition Reserve Policy to support economic diversification, fund enabling infrastructure, attract new industries, and allocate future surpluses to drive long-term regional growth and jobs. - Latrobe City Council unveils 18-hole Churchill Disc Golf course, providing free, family-friendly outdoor recreation for everyone
Latrobe City Council has launched an 18-hole Churchill Disc Golf course, offering free, family-friendly outdoor recreation, with a community launch event and daily public access for all ages and skill levels. - Latrobe City renames tourism committee, expands strategic role to strengthen visitor economy outcomes and major events planning
Latrobe City Council has renamed its tourism committee as the Visitor Economy Advisory Committee, broadening its strategic role to guide tourism, major events and economic outcomes, with refreshed membership processes. - Latrobe City Council reviews community feedback on draft Streetscape Strategy to refine public space improvements and concerns
Latrobe City Council has concluded community consultation on the draft Streetscape Strategy, reviewing feedback on carpark concerns, public space improvements, and long-term enhancements before finalising recommendations. - Latrobe City Mayor Sharon Gibson criticises delays, saying regional communities are neglected compared to metropolitan Melbourne
Latrobe City Mayor has criticised major delays to key road safety projects in Moe and Traralgon, saying regional communities are being left behind metropolitan Melbourne. - Latrobe City partners with Yarra Drones to develop Advanced Air Mobility Centre, boosting innovation, jobs and aviation testing
Latrobe City appoints Yarra Drones to establish an Advanced Air Mobility Command Centre, boosting drone testing, aerospace innovation, and future job growth at Latrobe Regional Airport. - Latrobe City Council endorses priority advocacy projects to shape 2026–27 Federal Budget submission delegation
Latrobe City Council has endorsed priority advocacy projects to shape its 2026/27 Federal Budget submission, seeking targeted national investment to drive economic transition, infrastructure delivery, job creation and long-term regional growth. - Latrobe City Council launches Action Plan to simplify fees, processes, and communications for easier local businesses to grow
Latrobe City Council’s new Action Plan simplifies fees, processes, and communications, making it easier for local businesses to operate, improve coordination, and support small businesses while driving economic growth. - Latrobe City Children's Expo returns to Kernot Hall with family fun, interactive learning and the Monash Teddy Bear Hospital
Latrobe City Children's Expo returns to Kernot Hall on 23 October, featuring fun activities, entertainment, local services, and the Monash Teddy Bear Hospital promoting children's health, learning, and community connection. - Latrobe City Council approves funding for three major events, boosting tourism and generating over $6.5M economic impact
Latrobe City Council will fund three major events, including ProMX, Football Victoria Championships, and Junior International Tennis, generating over $6.5 million economic impact and boosting local tourism and community engagement. - Latrobe City Council develops community outreach program to boost CBD safety and reduce anti-social behaviour locally
Latrobe City Council will develop a $30,000 community outreach program to support vulnerable individuals, reduce anti-social behaviour, and improve safety in CBDs and transport hubs across the municipality. - Latrobe City invites community feedback on draft Streetscape Strategy to enhance town centres until 20 October 2025
Latrobe City Council has released its draft Streetscape Strategy for public feedback, aiming to enhance town aesthetics, accessibility, and sustainability through improved design, maintenance, and consistent public amenities. - Latrobe City Council endorses Economic Development Advisory Committee to drive diverse, regional economic growth
Latrobe City Council will establish an Economic Development Advisory Committee with diverse industry leaders and an independent chair to guide post-coal transition economic growth and investment opportunities. - Latrobe City to host National Reconciliation Week flag-raising ceremony and community celebration in Morwell
Latrobe City Council will hold a National Reconciliation Week flag-raising ceremony in Morwell, followed by a community lunch, cultural performance, and reflections on reconciliation, history, and shared community understanding. - Latrobe City to celebrate Australia Day with free events, pools, citizenship ceremony, and community awards
Latrobe City will celebrate Australia Day with free community events, pool access, citizenship ceremonies, and awards recognising outstanding volunteers, fostering connection, fun, and community spirit across multiple towns. - Latrobe City Council launches 'Kindness is key' campaign to empower students and tackle bullying together
Latrobe City Council launched the Kindness is Key: Stop Bullying campaign, co-designed with students to promote kindness, upstander training, and community action against bullying across local schools. - Latrobe City adopts Amendment C150, rezoning Traralgon Golf Club land to reflect ongoing recreational use
Latrobe City Council has adopted Amendment C150, rezoning Traralgon Golf Club land to a Special Use Zone, securing its long-term recreational use and preventing residential development. - Latrobe City Council endorses submissions on Hazelwood and Yallourn declared mine rehabilitation plans
Latrobe City Council has endorsed submissions on Hazelwood and Yallourn mine rehabilitation plans, promoting sustainable restoration, strong coordination, environmental accountability, community benefits, and long-term regional resilience. - Latrobe City Australia Day Awards 2026 honoured locals’ achievements, service, and community leadership
Latrobe City celebrated the 2026 Australia Day Awards, recognising locals’ dedication, leadership, and community contributions across service, events, youth, senior, and citizen categories. - Latrobe City Council extends partnership with Tennis Australia to host 2027-2031 junior championships
Latrobe City Council will host the 2027–2031 AGL Loy Yang Traralgon Junior International, showcasing elite under-18 tennis, supporting the community, and strengthening the region’s reputation for world-class sporting events. - Latrobe City Council takes over maintenance of five rural recreation reserves supporting volunteers
Latrobe City Council will manage maintenance for five rural recreation reserves, easing volunteer workloads, improving public spaces, and providing consistent services, supported by additional budget funding and a new pressure-washing program. - Latrobe City Council takes over maintenance of five rural recreation reserves supporting volunteers
Latrobe City Council will manage maintenance for five rural recreation reserves, easing volunteer workloads, improving public spaces, and providing consistent services, supported by additional budget funding and a new pressure-washing program. - Latrobe City Council elects Sharon Gibson as Mayor and Dale Harriman as Deputy Mayor for 2025 - 26
Latrobe City Council has elected Sharon Gibson as Mayor and Dale Harriman as Deputy Mayor for 2025 - 26, pledging to diversify the economy, support local industries, and create jobs for the community. - Latrobe City Council welcomes Shred Fest free skate celebration at Moe Skate Park 18 April 2026
Latrobe City Council welcomes Shred Fest at Moe Skate Park on April 18, 10am–5pm, featuring Nike Skateboarding pros, workshops, demonstrations, competitions, entertainment, free activities, and food for all ages. - Latrobe City welcomes proposed $10B Morwell data centre boosting economy, jobs, and industry
Latrobe City Council welcomes Keppel’s proposed $10 billion Morwell data centre, Australia’s largest, leveraging existing energy infrastructure to create jobs, support workforce transition, and drive long-term economic and industrial growth. - Latrobe City Council announces '2025 Latrobe Through Your Lens' photography and video winners
Latrobe City Council congratulates winners of the 2025 Latrobe Through Your Lens competition, celebrating local photography and videography with category prizes and an overall winner highlighted across Council platforms. - Latrobe City events drive tourism, economic growth and community engagement across the region
Latrobe City hosted major sporting and cultural events in 2024 - 25, attracting over 27,000 attendees and generating $23.5 million in economic impact, reinforcing the region's growing reputation as an events hub. - Latrobe City Council urges coordinated workforce transition ahead of Yallourn W closure 2028
Latrobe City Council urges a coordinated workforce transition ahead of Yallourn W Power Station’s 2028 closure, supporting an Energy Industry Jobs Plan to protect workers, families, local businesses, and regional economic resilience. - Latrobe City outdoor pools set to reopen for summer with weather-based opening days ahead
Latrobe City’s outdoor pools reopen 29 November, operating on days forecast at 25 degrees celsius. Moe and Yallourn North offer family-friendly facilities, with Yallourn North free. Council highlights community enjoyment and water-safety benefits. - Latrobe City Council renews YMCA contract to continue leading programs at GRAC facility
Latrobe City Council renews YMCA Victoria’s contract to operate GRAC, ensuring continued community access, health programs, local employment, and social benefits, with 400,000 visits expected in 2026. - Latrobe City Council to negotiate Old Methodist Church sale following community consultation and support heritage reuse
Following community consultation, Latrobe City Council will negotiate the Old Methodist Church sale to Traralgon Historical Society, supporting heritage reuse and allocating $86,000 funding contingent on securing a VicTrack lease. - Latrobe City Council celebrates Volunteer Week with expo taking place at Gippsland Performing Arts Centre Forecourt on 23 May 2026
Latrobe’s Volunteer Expo returns during National Volunteer Week, featuring 45+ groups, live performances, CPR training and community activities, celebrating volunteers while inspiring locals to discover meaningful opportunities. - Latrobe City Council's Councillor Sharon Gibson joins Regional Cities Victoria mayors to shape 2026 regional agenda
Latrobe Mayor Sharon Gibson joins Regional Cities Victoria mayors to shape 2026 agenda, advocating sustainable growth, investment, and workforce opportunities for regional Victoria’s cities and surrounding communities. - Union Theatre Wonthaggi HVAC upgrade begins, ensuring comfort, reliability, and long-term operation for the community
Bass Coast Shire Council is upgrading Wonthaggi’s Union Theatre HVAC system, ensuring comfort, reliability, and future-proofing the historic venue, with works valued at $899,000 and expected completion by 20 March 2026. - Drouin Picnic Racing Club receives $13,519 upgrade boost through Allan Labor government's Regional Customer Facilities Program
Drouin Picnic Racing Club will receive $13,519 to upgrade facilities and enhance race day experiences, part of the Allan Labor government's $730,000 investment improving regional racing venues statewide. - Baw Baw Shire Council welcomes $250,000 funding to upgrade Noojee Heritage Centre precinct and rail trail
Baw Baw Shire Council welcomes $250,000 funding for Noojee Heritage Centre precinct upgrades, supporting rail trail access, tourism infrastructure and local transition initiatives under the Forestry Transition Program. - Labor government delivers $2.73M Sale Hospital upgrade, modernising Community Services building for Gippsland healthcare staff
The Allan Labor government is delivering a $2.73 million upgrade to Sale Hospital's historic Community Services Building, modernising facilities for healthcare workers, patients, and students through the Regional Health Infrastructure Fund. - Latrobe City Council endorses community engagement on draft financial, asset, and road management plans
Council endorsed community engagement on key draft plans, including the Financial, Asset, and Road Management Plans, ensuring alignment with the Community Vision, Council Plan, and long-term strategic planning framework. - Drouin’s Commercial Place precinct to get $1.1M upgrades, enhancing safety, accessibility, streetscape and supporting local businesses
Construction on Drouin’s $1.1 million Commercial Place precinct upgrade begins October 2025, improving safety, accessibility, streetscape, pedestrian crossings, laneways, lighting, greenery, and community usability, completing mid-2026. - Gippsland Water begins Warragul wastewater plant upgrade to support growth, improve efficiency, and reduce environmental impact
Gippsland Water has begun a two-year Warragul wastewater plant upgrade, replacing ageing infrastructure, improving operations, reducing carbon emissions, and enhancing environmental outcomes to support rapid regional growth. - Labor government backs Moe's Ted Summerton Reserve upgrades with major investment in cricket, football and community facilities
Works have begun on Moe's Ted Summerton Reserve, delivering oval upgrades, lighting, new changerooms, and improvements through the Regional Sports Infrastructure Program, boosting community sport, events, jobs, and local participation. - Woodside Recreation Reserve receives $387,750 LED lighting upgrade improving safety, access, and evening sports opportunities for local community
The Woodside Recreation Reserve will receive a $387,750 LED lighting upgrade, improving safety, sustainability, access, and evening sports opportunities, funded by the Victorian Government, Wellington Shire Council, and local partners. - Darren Chester meets Latrobe City Council in Canberra to discuss Latrobe Valley priorities ahead of 2026-27 federal budget
Darren Chester met Latrobe City Council in Canberra to discuss economic transition, future jobs, infrastructure, and strategic investments for the Latrobe Valley ahead of the 2026–27 Federal Budget. - East Gippsland Shire backs $15M Bairnsdale Airport upgrade to boost emergency response and healthcare services regionally
East Gippsland Shire Council has backed a $15 million Bairnsdale Airport upgrade, extending the runway to boost emergency response, healthcare services, and regional aviation, supported by government funding and health agencies. - Morwell Gun Club unveils world-class olympic trap shooting upgrades, boosting training, competition and accessibility
Morwell Gun Club completed major upgrades under the Regional Sports Infrastructure Program, including new Olympic trap ranges, lighting, shelters and facilities, boosting training, accessibility, local jobs and Gippsland’s sporting opportunities. - Gippsland winter itinerary featuring truffles, rainforest walks, rail trails, waterfalls and indulgent dining experiences
A two-day Gippsland itinerary blends truffle dining with rainforest walks, waterfalls, rail trails and heritage experiences across Noojee and surrounding forest landscapes. - Wellington Shire Council invites community feedback on the Great Southern Rail Trail Master Plan to boost tourism by 8 May 2026
With the Alberton-Welshpool link complete, Wellington’s Great Southern Rail Trail Master Plan will guide improvements, boost tourism, support local businesses, and involve the community in shaping a sustainable, high-quality trail. - Melina Bath urges Allan government to prioritise urgent upgrades for Gippsland schools in poor condition
Melina Bath urges Allan Government to urgently upgrade Gippsland schools, highlighting 2025 report revealing many in poor condition, with ageing infrastructure and maintenance deficits impacting students’ education. - 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. - Darren Chester praises Cowwarr artist Jo Caminiti and her metal kelpies ‘Railway Dog’ to be unveiled in Glengarry on 22 March 2026
Three life-sized metal kelpie sculptures by Cowwarr artist Jo Caminiti will be installed along the Gippsland Plains Rail Trail, celebrating the legendary Railway Dog story and boosting tourism. - Latrobe kindergarten enrolments open 1 May 2026, offering 15 hours weekly and open days in April and May
Latrobe City kindergarten enrolments for 2027 open 1 May 2026 and close 30 June. Programs offer 15 hours weekly, with Open Days in April and May for families to explore Council kindergartens and Pre-Prep options. - Gippsland New Energy Conference showcases Latrobe City as Australia's leading hub for renewable energy innovation
Latrobe City hosted the 2025 Gippsland New Energy Conference, attracting 1,000 attendees and showcasing the region's renewable energy leadership, delivering major economic benefits and fostering industry, government, and community collaboration. - Latrobe Valley households to cut energy bills with efficient electric heat pump hot water system upgrades
Latrobe Valley households can cut energy bills by $330 annually with efficient heat pump hot water systems, thanks to the Allan Labor government's SEC one stop shop pilot expansion. - Latrobe excluded from bus funding, prompting renewed calls for better regional transport connectivity, reliability and integrated train-bus services
Latrobe City has been excluded from $100 million bus funding, prompting concerns over poor service coordination, limited connectivity, and calls for urgent regional transport review and investment. - Latrobe unites to tackle gambling harm during awareness week: 'Set Before You Bet' 2025
Latrobe City Council is urging residents to take part in Gambling Harm Awareness Week (27 Oct - 2 Nov) and "Set before you bet" by learning to recognise signs and reduce gambling harm. - Baw Baw Council endorses key 2026 advocacy priorities, including Weebar Road roundabout, Rokeby-Noojee Trail, sports infrastructure and regional investment
Baw Baw Shire Council has endorsed its 2026 advocacy priorities, including Weebar Road roundabout, Rokeby-Noojee Trail, Trafalgar oval, intersection upgrades, sporting infrastructure, business attraction, and peri‑urban recognition. - Letters to 1,600 Drouin households support advocacy for urgent intersection upgrades across Baw Baw Shire’s growing road network
Baw Baw Shire is delivering letters to 1,600 Drouin households urging community support for State funding of critical intersection upgrades amid growing congestion, safety concerns, and regional population growth pressures. - Latrobe Regional Gallery launches Autumn 2026 season, featuring five exhibitions exploring migration, heritage and environment
Latrobe Regional Gallery’s Autumn 2026 season opens 7 February, featuring five exhibitions exploring migration, heritage, identity, environment, and connections to place, including works by Lucy Hersey and Janina Green. - Latrobe Regional Gallery Mainstreet Cafe fosters skill development, employment, and community engagement for all abilities
Latrobe Regional Gallery welcomes Mainstreet Cafe, an all-abilities social enterprise providing inclusive hospitality training, employment opportunities, and community engagement, fostering skills development and pathways for people of all abilities. - Latrobe Valley residents invited to crime and community safety forum with Shadow Police Minister David Southwick
Latrobe Valley residents are invited to a free crime and community safety forum with Shadow Police Minister David Southwick on 6 November, hosted by Martin Cameron MP at the Morwell RSL. - Latrobe Health Assembly wins 2025 Australasia Organisation of the Year for excellence in community engagement
Latrobe Health Assembly has won the 2025 Australasia Organisation of the Year Award for Excellence in Community Engagement, recognising its innovative, community-driven approach to improving health and wellbeing across the Latrobe Valley. - Latrobe Valley's new 100MW big battery boosts energy reliability, cuts power bills, and supports Victoria's renewable transition
A 100MW Latrobe Valley big battery has officially opened, boosting energy reliability, cutting power bills, and supporting Victoria's renewable transition, helping achieve government storage targets while delivering affordable electricity. - Darren Chester welcomes safer Kalimna to Lakes Entrance walking path upgrade completed before Christmas period
Gippsland MP Darren Chester says thousands are enjoying the upgraded Kalimna-Lakes Entrance walking path, with new asphalt, safety barriers and intersection improvements completed before Christmas for locals and visitors. - Latrobe Health Assembly to continue, thanks to strong community support and new independent, community-owned future
Defunded in the 2025 State Budget, the Latrobe Health Assembly will continue as a leaner, community-owned organisation tackling local health and wellbeing challenges through collaboration and grassroots leadership. - City of Traralgon Band gifts council commemorative photograph after successful international remembrance tour
The City of Traralgon Band gifted Latrobe City Council a photograph commemorating their UK and Europe Tour of Remembrance, including performances at Menin Gate and recognition with two awards. - 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. - Latrobe Valley still waiting for Commonwealth Games Legacy Housing, four years after Labor promise
Regional Victorians miss hosting Commonwealth Games athletes as promised Morwell legacy housing remains unbuilt. Nationals MPs Martin Cameron and Melina Bath criticize Allan Labor government’s broken promises amid worsening public housing crisis. - Morwell River Ward Councillor Tracie Lund resigns, prompting Latrobe City by-election and community engagement process
Morwell River Ward Councillor Tracie Lund has resigned from Latrobe City Council. A by-election will be held, with the VEC managing nominations and voting to fill the vacancy. - Melina Bath says Latrobe Valley has lost police resources under Labor despite rising crime and reduced officer numbers across the region
Melina Bath says Victoria has fewer police under Labor, with Latrobe Valley losing officers amid rising crime and calls for stronger recruitment and policing reforms. - Martin Cameron says Latrobe Valley community safety declines as crime rises six percent, police resources reduced
Martin Cameron warns Latrobe Valley community safety is worsening under Labor, citing rising crime, reduced police resources, retail theft spikes, weak bail laws, and calls for tougher prevention and policing measures. - Baw Baw Shire Council secures $500k funding for Longwarry multi-sport pavilion upgrade project construction announcement
Baw Baw Shire secures $500,000 State funding for Longwarry Recreation Reserve multi-sport pavilion supporting football, netball, cricket and community facilities. - Melina Bath urges Labor Minister to reinstate Latrobe Valley town bus timetable after changes as commuters report major daily disruptions
The new Latrobe Valley PTV bus timetable has disrupted access to essential services, prompting Nationals’ Melina Bath to request reinstating the previous schedule to better serve commuters, students, and vulnerable residents. - Darren Chester delivers $3000 grant to Rosedale Historical Society for eco-friendly heating upgrade and safety improvements
Darren Chester delivered a $3000 Volunteer Grant to Rosedale Historical Society, funding eco-friendly heating upgrades that improve safety and sustainability while supporting volunteers and preserving the district's heritage for future generations. - Gippsland Water launches pop-up events inviting Latrobe Valley residents to help shape future water services and planning decisions
Gippsland Water will host pop-up events across the Latrobe Valley, inviting community feedback to help shape future water services, pricing, and infrastructure planning. - Discover Tarra Bulga National Park’s ancient rainforest, towering ferns, Corrigan Suspension Bridge, lyrebirds, and lush Gippsland greenery
Explore Tarra Bulga National Park’s ancient rainforest, towering ferns, and Corrigan Suspension Bridge, spot lyrebirds, enjoy walking trails, picnic areas, and nearby Gippsland towns, beaches, and rail trails. - 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. - Mallacoota marks bushfire recovery milestone with streetscape, pavilion and hall upgrades completed
Mallacoota marks bushfire recovery milestone with Maurice Avenue, Mudbrick Pavilion, and Hall upgrades, supported by East Gippsland Shire Council and state and federal governments, strengthening community resilience and local infrastructure. - Martin Cameron urges Labor government funding commitment on Latrobe Valley mental health unit urgently needing expansion
The Nationals’ Martin Cameron urges Allan Labor Government to urgently expand Latrobe Regional Health’s mental health unit, citing critically limited beds and growing demand for timely care in Gippsland. - Marvel at Skull Rock: Gippsland’s massive ocean monolith, accessible only by boat from Wilsons Promontory National Park
Explore Skull Rock, Gippsland’s dramatic ocean monolith, via Wanderer Adventures’ boat cruises from Wilsons Prom. Spot seals, dolphins, remote beaches, and ancient rock formations on this unforgettable marine adventure. - Discover Buchan Caves with the underground wonders, Aboriginal heritage, and stunning East Gippsland landscapes
Explore Buchan Caves in East Gippsland, Victoria’s largest cave system, featuring ancient pillars, caverns, pools, Aboriginal heritage, scenic rivers, picnic areas, and one of Australia’s best night sky viewing spots. - Martin Cameron urges Labor government to enforce tobacco licensing, protect Latrobe Valley businesses from organised crime threats
Martin Cameron urges Allan Labor Government to increase tobacco inspector numbers, enforce licensing, and protect Latrobe Valley businesses from organised crime threatening local shops and operators. - V/Line Gippsland timetable changes delay early trains, creating challenges for Latrobe Valley commuters and early-shift workers
VLine Gippsland timetable changes delay early trains, affecting Latrobe Valley commuters and workers, prompting council to request a review to reinstate earlier services and support employment and community needs.
|
|
