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Darren Chester criticises ABC Four Corners, calling coverage biased, ignoring science, jobs and regional impactsDarren Chester has criticised the ABC Four Corners program, calling its timber industry coverage biased, activist-driven, and ignoring science, jobs, and regional economic impacts. By news@gippsland - 23rd June 2026 - Back to News The Shadow Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Darren Chester has slammed the ABC for its 'one-sided coverage' of the Australian timber industry. Mr Chester said the 'Four Corners' program, which aired on Monday night, was another example of biased reporting focused on environmental activism. 
Darren Chester says ABC ignored impacts of Labor policies on native timber, warning shutdowns increase imports, hurt regional jobs and industry sustainability ABC bias claimsMr Chester said, "From the first sentence of the program, it was obvious the ABC wasn't going to be interested in presenting a balanced view of our world-class and environmentally sustainable native hardwood timber industry. There was no attempt to include the views of some of Australia's leading forest scientists who support the hardwood timber industry, as the ABC dragged out the same old activists." "Instead of objective reporting, we were exposed to taxpayer-funded propaganda for the Labor-Greens, who have demonstrated complete and utter contempt for the forest industry in Australia for several decades. Driven by his desperate need to secure Green preferences in the city, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has sold out blue-collar workers in regional communities." "Thousands of jobs have already been lost, communities have been destroyed, and the regions are less safe because we have lost the equipment and the skilled workforce which we've always relied on during major bushfire events. We've already seen the Labor Party in Victoria, Western Australia, and New South Wales capitulate to the Greens and the federal government's EPBC Act changes just make it harder to source Australian-grown fibre and result in more imported timber products," Mr Chester said. Forestry slams FourCornersThe Australian Forest Products Association Action CEO Richard Hyett said the Four Corners program was not interested in accurately reflecting the latest science, environmental credentials and economic importance of Australia's innovative forestry industry. "The story was not balanced, accurate or fair, and blatantly prioritised activism over credible journalism. The program ignored the evidence supporting Australia's world-leading forest management systems and failed to present a balanced assessment of a sustainable industry that provides renewable products, regional jobs and significant environmental benefits," Mr Hyett said. Chester defends timberMr Chester said the ABC had completely ignored the consequences of Labor Party policies to shut down the native timber industry. "When it comes to timber, governments have two choices. You either harvest your own in an environmentally sustainable manner or you take someone else's," Mr Chester said. "Australia has a trade deficit in timber products, and our dependence on countries like Brazil and Indonesia will only grow in the future if we shut down our own industry. It's an insult to hard-working Australians in the timber industry throughout regional Australia that our national broadcaster shows no regard for the social and economic consequences of Labor-Greens policies which target the timber industry," Mr Chester said. Pictures from Darren Chester Facebook page.
Source: http://gippsland.com/ Published by: news@gippsland.com
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Tim Bull has criticised delays to the Mallacoota–Genoa Road upgrade, saying the Victorian government has wasted funding on consultants while failing to deliver long-promised bushfire recovery works. - Two weeks left to join Darren Chester's 2026 #lovegippsland Calendar Competition celebrating iconic Gippsland
Two weeks remain to enter Darren Chester's 2026 #lovegippsland calendar competition, celebrating Gippsland's landscapes and talent. Entries close October 3, with winners featured among 30,000 distributed calendars showcasing 'Iconic Gippsland'. - Martin Cameron criticises WorkSafe, calling system flawed after apprentice Byron Foley’s catastrophic injury
Morwell MP Martin Cameron criticises Victoria’s "fundamentally broken" WorkSafe system, highlighting apprentice Byron Foley’s catastrophic injury, ongoing struggles, and calling for urgent reform, fairer compensation, and better support services. - Melina Bath criticises Labor government, calling Myki's delayed tap-and-go rollout a "mythical unicorn," outdated and incompatible
Victoria's long-promised tap-and-go public transport system has been delayed until 2028, leaving commuters, especially in regional areas, still reliant on outdated Myki cards and paper tickets - Melina Bath criticises Labor’s digital-only licence system, calling it discriminatory and locking out hunters lacking internet access
Melina Bath urges Minister Dimopoulos to reinstate paper-based licence renewals, ensuring hunters aren’t excluded and focusing on hunting competency over digital skills - Danny O’Brien criticises Labor’s $650M Delburn wind farm investment ignoring local community concerns
Gippsland South MP Danny O’Brien criticises Labor’s $650 million Delburn wind farm investment, calling it a waste of taxpayers’ money that ignores local community concerns about fire, noise, and visual impact. - Martin Cameron criticises Allan Labor government for neglecting regional PSOs while funding Melbourne stations
Morwell MP Martin Cameron criticises Allan Labor Government for neglecting regional PSOs, citing rising Gippsland crime and calling for equal safety protections and additional officers under Coalition plans. - Danny O’Brien criticises Labor’s wind farm approval, saying regional voices are being ignored
Danny O’Brien criticises Labor’s approval of the Gelliondale Wind Farm, saying regional concerns were ignored and calling for restored appeal rights and fairer planning protections. - Martin Cameron criticises Labor for reducing Hazelwood Road speed limit instead of repairing dangerous regional road conditions
Nationals MP Martin Cameron criticises Labor for reducing Hazelwood Road’s speed limit instead of repairing its deteriorating surface, calling for urgent action to improve regional road safety. - Martin Cameron slams Labor’s delayed Loy Yang rehabilitation plan, calling it tone-deaf and ignoring immediate Latrobe Valley job losses
Morwell MP Martin Cameron criticises Labor’s delayed Loy Yang rehabilitation plan, calling it tone-deaf, failing to provide immediate jobs or industry support for the Latrobe Valley amid coal power closures. - Government was light on details about fuel and fertiliser plans, says Darren Chester
Darren Chester urges the Albanese government to ensure fuel and fertiliser prioritisation for agriculture and food production, warning supply disruptions from the Iran conflict threaten farmers, exports and Australian household budgets. - 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. - Tim Bull criticises Minister Dimopoulos for dismissing G-Wagon concerns, warning Gippsland’s fire preparedness is reduced
Tim Bull criticises Environment Minister Dimopoulos for dismissing concerns about withdrawn G-Wagon firefighting vehicles, warning Gippsland faces reduced fire preparedness and urging clear answers before the upcoming fire season. - Melina Bath criticises Labor for leaving Gippsland commuters on outdated paper tickets, delaying Myki upgrades until 2028
Eastern Victoria MP Melina Bath criticises Labor for leaving Gippsland commuters on outdated paper tickets, with Myki upgrades delayed until 2028, causing frustration, inconvenience, and barriers for regional public transport users. - Danny O'Brien criticises Labor's fast-track renewable energy policy removing Gippslanders' right to appeal development decisions
Danny O'Brien criticises Labor's fast-track renewable energy policy after Gelliondale Wind Farm reapplies, warning it removes Gippslanders' appeal rights, undermines safeguards, and threatens proper siting of turbines near homes. - Melina Bath criticises Labor over bushfire response, fuel reduction shortfalls and fire preparedness failures
Melina Bath criticises the Allan Labor government for downplaying Victoria’s bushfire risk, citing large areas burned, low fuel reduction, and concerns over firefighting preparedness and transparency. - Melina Bath criticises Labor government shutting public beekeeping, threatening Victoria's food security and horticultural jobs
Melina Bath condemned the Allan Labor government's closure of public land beekeeping, warning it threatens food security, pollination, horticultural exports, and regional jobs, calling for policy reversal and support for apiarists. - Melina Bath criticises Labor for six-year delay restoring Thurra River Campground after 2019-20 bushfires
Eastern Victoria MP Melina Bath criticises Labor’s six-year delay restoring Thurra River Campground, highlighting unsafe facilities, limited capacity, and urgent need for infrastructure replacement to support local families and tourism. - 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. - Auditor-General report criticises Victoria’s timber shutdown, citing job losses, insecure work and failed transition planning
Auditor-General report criticises Victoria’s native timber shutdown, highlighting failed transition, job insecurity, and ongoing regional economic harm under the Allan government’s policy. - Melina Bath criticises Allan government over poor safety ratings on Eastern Victoria roads
Melina Bath criticises Allan government after AusRAP reveals most eastern Victoria roads rated one or two stars, highlighting neglect, poor maintenance, and increased risk of serious injury or fatalities. - Martin Cameron criticises Labor government over delayed Morwell sobering-up facility, broken promises and lack of ministerial accountability
Martin Cameron criticised the Allan Labor government for failing to deliver the promised Morwell sobering-up facility, ignoring repeated parliamentary questions, leaving the Latrobe Valley without adequate public intoxication support. - 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. - Tim Bull criticises Labor government for mismanagement, volunteer cuts, and inadequate fuel reduction ahead of high-risk summer season
Gippsland East MP Tim Bull warns communities face extreme bushfire risk this summer due to Labor’s volunteer cuts, ageing CFA fleet, inadequate fuel reduction, and failure to implement Royal Commission recommendations. - Tim Bull criticises sudden last-minute VLine reductions from six to three carriages, causing tension due to limited rolling stock
Victorian country train passengers are forced to stand up to four hours after last-minute carriage cuts, with MP Tim Bull urging PSOs and additional services to protect booked seating. - Martin Cameron criticises continued delay of Bank Street Traralgon traffic lights safety upgrade
Morwell MP Martin Cameron criticises repeated delays to Bank Street Traralgon traffic lights, highlighting safety risks for nearly 20,000 daily users and urging urgent government action. - Melina Bath criticises politicised VEAC, failing land management, while $1.4M could fund bushfire prevention, environmental services
Melina Bath warns Victorian hunters and anglers against reduced services as Labor pushes VFA-GMA merger, urging proper funding, training, and enforcement to protect compliance, sustainability, and regional outdoor traditions. - Danny O'Brien criticises Labor's police station maintenance cuts despite backflip restoring partial funding for grounds upkeep
Danny O'Brien has criticised Labor's partial backflip on police station maintenance cuts, saying Gippsland officers deserve safe, clean workplaces and stronger government support amid rising regional crime rates. - Danny O’Brien criticises Labor’s road funding, citing Gippsland highways’ ongoing underinvestment and worsening pothole backlog
Danny O’Brien says Labor’s $1.04 billion roads blitz exposes a large pothole backlog, highlighting years of underinvestment and ongoing deterioration of Gippsland’s regional road network. - Melina Bath criticises Allan government over lack of funding for Kids Helpline mental health support
Melina Bath has criticised the Allan government for not funding Kids Helpline, despite strong Victorian demand, urging greater mental health support for vulnerable young people, particularly in regional areas. - Chairo and Heyfield students gain real-world political insights through engaging discussions with Darren Chester
Federal MP Darren Chester met Year 5-6 students in Traralgon and Canberra, discussing democracy, global affairs, law-making and political life, with students showing strong curiosity and insight during engaging civil conversations. - Danny O'Brien criticises Allan government over 147 unavailable social housing properties across Gippsland South electorate
Nationals MP Danny O'Brien says 147 social housing properties in Gippsland South remain unavailable, raising concerns over housing shortages, transparency and delays returning vacant public homes to tenants. - Martin Cameron criticises Labor’s ensured failure by hastening coal plant closures without planning baseload power replacements
The Victorian Auditor-General warns a "disorderly energy transition" could cause power shortages, soaring prices, and job losses, with Labor’s accelerated coal closures and mismanaged renewable planning worsening the crisis. - Danny O’Brien criticises ongoing social housing maintenance delays leaving vulnerable Gippslanders waiting far too long
Danny O’Brien warns ongoing delays in social housing maintenance leave vulnerable Gippslanders waiting months, highlighting a vacant Foster property and urging timely repairs and better decision-making to address shortages. - Danny O'Brien criticises Labor for closing Sale and Bairnsdale courts on non-sitting days, inconveniencing locals
Danny O'Brien condemns the Labor government for closing Sale and Bairnsdale courts on non-sitting days, restricting public access and causing significant inconvenience for Gippsland communities who rely on local court assistance. - David Littleproud criticises Labor’s COP Summit bid as costly, self-serving, and out of touch amid Australia’s cost-of-living crisis
Nationals leader David Littleproud slammed Labor’s $2 billion COP Summit bid as a self-serving, costly vanity project, prioritising global attention over Australians struggling with cost-of-living pressures and rising energy bills. - 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. - Melina Bath tours high country, noting weeds and fuel loads, calling for stronger land management and increased on-ground environmental action
Melina Bath toured Victoria’s High Country, noting weeds and fuel loads, raising concerns about land management, fire risk and biodiversity, and calling for stronger resourcing and environmental action. - Bass Coast jobs and careers expos return to connect job seekers and employers at Wonthaggi Town Hall on 6 August and Berninneit on 11 September 2026
Bass Coast Local Jobs and Careers Expos return to Wonthaggi and Phillip Island, connecting job seekers with employers, training providers and support services while showcasing local vacancies, career pathways and business opportunities. - Wellington Shire Jobs and Careers Fair connects job seekers with local employers and entry-level opportunities across diverse industries
Wellington Shire Council is pleased to announce the return of The Middle of Everywhere Jobs and Careers Fair, a free event connecting job seekers with local employers, training providers and career pathways - all in one place. - 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. - The Nationals demand an immediate election over Labor’s new tax changes, calling them a mandate-less, harmful assault on Australians
The Nationals demand an immediate election, accusing Labor of introducing major tax changes without a mandate and harming Australians. - 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. - Danny O'Brien says Gippsland Renewable Energy Zones lack assurances, calling for consultation and protections
Danny O’Brien says Gippsland Renewable Energy Zones lack assurances for landholders, calling for stronger consultation, property protections and clarity on impacts to farms and communities. - Latrobe Regional Gallery unveils bold, playful winter exhibitions for all ages and curious minds
Latrobe Regional Gallery’s winter season features bold, playful exhibitions exploring climate, sustainability, overlooked artworks and arcade art, alongside a quirky kids space. Free entry, open daily, it offers something for all ages. - South Gippsland Jobs Expo 2026 and other council project updates
South Gippsland Shire Council’s Summer 2026 update features the Jobs Expo, community events, road closures, Council meetings, sustainability workshops, youth initiatives, tenders, local festivals, and upcoming employment opportunities. - Latrobe City Council pushes for jobs, investment, housing and community safety during Victorian Parliament delegation
Latrobe City Council has urged Victorian leaders to back jobs, housing, investment, community safety, energy transition projects and infrastructure to strengthen long-term regional economic growth. - Melina Bath warns rising crime under Labor threatens community safety, as offences increase, calling for stronger police support and tougher laws
Eastern Victoria MP Melina Bath warns crime rose 12.7% to 640,860 under Labor, with reduced police funding and station hours leaving Victorians unsafe, calling for stronger laws and police support. - Brownlow medallist Kelvin Templeton discusses debut novel Collision at Traralgon Library Author event with ABC's Rachael Lucas on 15 July 2026
Former AFL star and Brownlow medallist Kelvin Templeton will discuss his debut novel Collision at Traralgon Library on July 15, joined by ABC Gippsland journalist Rachael Lucas. Free bookings are essential. - Labor must explain regional rail shutdown that left Gippslanders stranded without any backup plan or confidence
The Opposition says the statewide V/Line shutdown exposed the regional rail network's lack of contingency planning, leaving passengers stranded and renewing calls for greater infrastructure investment and reliability across regional Victoria. - Ensay Recreation Reserve redevelopment completed, $2.2M upgrades to strengthen community, sport and tourism
Federal Member Darren Chester congratulated Ensay volunteers on completing the $2.2 million Recreation Reserve redevelopment, enhancing sport, community facilities, and tourism as part of Black Summer bushfire recovery. - Danny O'Brien raises concerns over online-only vehicle registration rebate, calling for accessible options and safeguards
Danny O’Brien warns the online-only vehicle registration rebate may disadvantage vulnerable residents, raising concerns about accessibility, digital exclusion and increased risk of scams - Melina Bath slams Agriculture Minister Ros Spence for ignoring Gippsland farmers' struggles under Labor's tax regime
Melina Bath criticised Agriculture Minister Ros Spence for refusing to advocate for Gippsland farmers, citing VFF survey results showing overwhelming concern over new taxes and Labor's disregard for regional agriculture. - Wellington Shire Gippsland Regional Livestock Exchange surges ahead, handling one in 43 Victorian Cattle Sales in 2024
Gippsland Regional Livestock Exchange recorded a remarkable 122% increase in cattle throughput last financial year, making it the highest percentage increase of any saleyard in Australia. - Gippsland welcomes $50M Renewable Energy TAFE Centre in Morwell, boosting jobs and regional transition to renewable energy future
One Gippsland welcomes $50 million investment in Morwell Renewable Energy TAFE Centre, boosting workforce training and supporting Gippsland’s clean energy transition and future job growth. - Labor provides rebates and programs to help regional households switch from costly gas to cheaper electric appliances
The Allan Labor government is supporting 1,183 regional households impacted by Solstice's gas network closure with rebates, discounts, and programs to help them transition to cheaper, energy-efficient electric appliances. - Allan Labor government backs regional footy and netball with $1.5M from 2025-26 Country Football and Netball Program
The Allan Labor government is investing $1.5 million in Morwell sports clubs through the Country Football and Netball Program, while opening new grants to upgrade regional facilities and boost community participation. - East Gippsland Council advances regional projects, improving facilities, accessibility, resilience and growth
East Gippsland Council is delivering major regional projects, upgrades, improving accessibility, supporting resilience, and enhancing infrastructure across towns including Bairnsdale, Buchan, Mallacoota, Cann River, and Paynesville. - Melina Bath encourages increased funding for regional palliative care, ensuring dignity and support statewide
Melina Bath warned underfunded regional palliative care forces terminally ill Victorians into hospitals instead of home, calling for urgent investment to ensure dignity, support, and equal access across eastern Victoria. - Melina Bath warns diesel crisis threatens regional Victoria, urging Allan government to prioritise agriculture, transport and food
Melina Bath warned regional Victoria faces a diesel crisis, urging the Allan government to prioritise fuel for farms, transport, and households to protect food supply and regional economic stability. - Gippsland to join European Union Program showcasing regional innovation in clean energy, tourism, agriculture and sustainable development
Gippsland has been selected for a European Union research program, showcasing its leadership in clean energy, tourism, and agriculture while promoting international collaboration, innovation, and investment through the IURC initiative. - East Gippsland Council advances regional projects, boosting infrastructure, accessibility, recreation, resilience and growth
East Gippsland Council progresses major projects, enhancing community facilities, infrastructure, accessibility, resilience, and recreational opportunities across Bairnsdale, Buchan, Mallacoota, Cann River, Paynesville, and surrounding areas. - One Gippsland welcomes Budget support for regional education, health, roads and skills, noting tourism gaps
One Gippsland welcomes Victorian 2026-27 Budget initiatives aligning with its advocacy, highlighting improvements in education, health, skills, roads and regional services, while noting gaps in tourism and regional cost-of-living equity. - Danny O’Brien condemns sudden AKD Yarram timber mill closure, 73 jobs lost, pledges support for affected community
Gippsland South MP Danny O’Brien says sudden AKD Yarram timber mill closure, costing 73 jobs, devastates the community, pledging support for affected families, workers, and local businesses during this crisis. - 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. - Melina Bath calls for fair share guarantee to deliver regional Victoria its fair infrastructure funding share
Melina Bath says regional Victoria has long been overlooked, with Eastern communities missing infrastructure funding, and calls for a Fair Share Guarantee ensuring 25 per cent of state investment returns to regional areas. - 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. - Gippsland launches Offshore Wind Sector Plan guiding development, jobs, clean energy and regional growth
Gippsland Offshore Wind Alliance launches Sector Plan to guide offshore wind development, supporting clean energy transition, investment, jobs and regional economic growth across the region. - Interim report calls for flexible childcare system, improved regional access and supports for families across all service types in Gippsland
Victoria’s childcare inquiry interim report urges stronger child safety, improved regulation, workforce standards and better regional access across the early childhood education sector. - Martin Cameron promises fair share guarantee to ensure regional Victoria receives 25 percent infrastructure funding
Martin Cameron says a Nationals–Liberal government will introduce a Fair Share Guarantee, ensuring regional Victoria receives 25% of infrastructure funding to address long-standing underinvestment in the Latrobe Valley and regional communities. - 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. - 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. - Martin Cameron questions Labor government for denying regional crime crisis and the ongoing failures of 'Bail Laws'
The Nationals' Martin Cameron has accused the Allan Labor government of failing Victorians with weak bail laws, after repeat offenders continue to walk free and regional crime remains out of control. - Labor Budget delivers cost-of-living relief and regional investment across Eastern Victoria’s services
Labor’s Budget delivers cost-of-living relief and major investment across Eastern Victoria, including transport discounts, health and education funding, and improved regional infrastructure and services. - Prime Minister accused of misleading claim over wine tourism program as budget cut sparks regional industry backlash and political dispute
The Prime Minister faces criticism over claims a wine tourism program was saved, despite budget cuts, sparking backlash over regional impacts and industry funding concerns. - Melina Bath invites local community and sporting clubs to apply for Regional All Abilities Grants by 19 November 2025
Melina Bath encourages regional clubs to apply for 2025 Regional All Abilities Participation Grants, supporting inclusive programs, specialised equipment, workforce, and disability-led initiatives. Applications close 19 November 2025. - One Gippsland urges stronger climate action and investment to build regional disaster resilience
One Gippsland is calling for urgent government action, investment and policy reform to strengthen disaster resilience, improve planning, and protect coastal communities facing increasing climate-related risks and rising economic costs. - Bass Coast Council lobbies state government on key regional priorities ahead of 2026 election talks
Bass Coast Council meets state government leaders to advocate for funding across tourism, sport, infrastructure, coastal protection and major regional development priorities ahead of the 2026 election. - SEC acquires Delburn Wind Farm, Gippsland’s first public wind project, creating jobs and boosting local energy and economy by 2028
The SEC’s acquisition of Delburn Wind Farm will deliver Gippsland’s first public wind project by 2028, creating 300 construction jobs, long-term careers, and $22 million in community benefits. - Melina Bath said The Nationals will continue standing with regional Victorians and sporting shooting community
Common sense has prevailed after proposals to cap firearm numbers per licence were scrapped, with Danny O’Brien crediting strong advocacy from law-abiding owners, sporting clubs and shooting organisations across Victoria wide support. - Gippsland Water plants 10,000 native trees after customers back regional biodiversity and climate action initiative
Gippsland Water is planting 10,000 native trees and shrubs after 77 per cent of surveyed customers supported the initiative, boosting biodiversity, restoring habitats and advancing its net zero by 2030 goals. - The Nationals pledge fair infrastructure funding for Gippsland, addressing regional Victoria’s ongoing underinvestment gap
The Nationals have pledged to secure Gippsland a fair share of infrastructure funding, arguing regional Victoria is underfunded compared to its population and deserves greater investment in key services. - Coalition moves to block Labor's carbon credit forestry plan, warning of regional job losses and land lock-ups
The Coalition will seek to block Labor's carbon credit forestry policy, arguing it threatens native timber industries, regional jobs, agricultural land, timber supply and long-term economic sustainability. - Sale coffee cup campaign spreads strong community message against domestic and family violence across local businesses
Sale's Rotary Club has launched a coffee cup awareness campaign against domestic and family violence, with MPs Darren Chester and Danny O'Brien urging businesses and residents to support the initiative. - Bass Coast Shire Council presents free Woolamai Beach Safety event featuring Dr Rip’s 'Science of the Surf' on 7 March 2026
Bass Coast Shire Council will host a free, family-friendly beach safety event at Woolamai Beach Surf Life Saving Club on 7 March 2026, featuring Professor Rob Brander’s Science of the Surf and live rip demonstration. - Danny O'Brien proposes fair share guarantee to secure infrastructure funding for regional Victoria, including Gippsland projects
The Nationals propose a Fair Share Guarantee to ensure 25 percent of infrastructure funding for regional Victoria, addressing long-standing underinvestment and supporting Gippsland communities. - Nationals demand urgent Tourism Ministers meeting and interest-free loans for regional operators amid fuel crisis impact
The Nationals are urging an urgent ministerial meeting and interest-free loans for regional tourism operators hit by the fuel crisis, warning of falling bookings, cancellations, job losses, and declining confidence. - Victorian government funding to help Drouin West Timber and Truss expand production, create jobs and boost housing supply
Victorian government funding will help Drouin West Timber and Truss expand production with robotics, create six jobs, boost housing construction capacity and strengthen Gippsland's local building supply chain. - Melina Bath appointed Shadow Minister for Outdoor Recreation, championing regional lifestyles and economic opportunities
Melina Bath has been appointed Shadow Minister for Outdoor Recreation, pledging to champion outdoor access, community wellbeing, and the vital economic and lifestyle benefits outdoor activities bring to regional Victoria. - Middle of Everywhere ANZAC Week Airshow returns celebrating aviation, ANZAC spirit and regional pride at West Sale Airport on 18-19 April 2026
The Middle of Everywhere ANZAC Week Airshow returns 18–19 April at West Sale Airport, featuring thrilling aerobatics, military and civilian aircraft displays, and up-close experiences celebrating aviation, ANZAC spirit, and regional pride. - South Gippsland Water completes Lance Creek storage tank, improving regional water reliability and future growth
South Gippsland Water has completed a 4.5 megalitre Lance Creek storage tank, improving water supply reliability for multiple Gippsland communities and supporting future population growth and demand. - Victorian budget delivers cost of living relief, transport discounts, regional investment and services support
Victorian Budget delivers cost-of-living relief, including rego discounts, cheaper transport, and major investments in health, education, regional infrastructure, and community services. - 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. - West Gippsland Seedbank volunteers collect 8.4kgs of native seeds to boost regional revegetation and biodiversity efforts
West Gippsland Seedbank volunteers collected 8.4 kilograms of native seed to support future revegetation projects, while an educational display highlighted the importance of biodiversity, locally sourced seed and ethical collection practices. - 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. - Parliamentary Inquiry visits South Gippsland to examine oil, gas decommissioning and regional transition opportunities
State Parliament’s Environment and Planning Committee visited South Gippsland to examine oil and gas decommissioning, and local government perspectives, highlighting infrastructure needs and renewable transition opportunities. - Danny O’Brien says Gippsland school project delays highlight need for fair regional infrastructure funding
Gippsland school project delays highlight calls for fair regional infrastructure funding, with The Nationals advocating guaranteed investment to deliver long-promised education upgrades. - South Gippsland autumn 2026 update with business breakfast, grants, events, opportunities and jobs expo on 19 March 2026
South Gippsland Jobs Expo on 19 March in Leongatha offers job opportunities, career advice and training pathways, alongside a business breakfast, community events, grants, road safety upgrades, skatepark opening and council updates. - Pip Courtney brings National Agricultural insights to Orbost Show’s Far East Victoria Landcare Expo
ABC Landline presenter Pip Courtney was keynote at the Orbost Show Landcare Expo, sharing agricultural insights, promoting sustainable farming, soil health, and collaboration between producers, Landcare groups, and regional communities. - Gippsland students return to classrooms rated poor or below average, exposing Labor’s neglect of regional schools, says Danny O'Brien
As Gippsland students return to school in 2026, 18 regional schools are rated poor or below average, highlighting Labor’s neglect and urgent need for infrastructure investment, says Danny O’Brien. - Loch Public Hall hosts community updates with local groups, councillors and regional progress reports on 3 June 2026
Community members are invited to Loch Public Hall on Wednesday for updates from local associations, progress groups, and councillors, with informal discussions available beforehand from 1.00pm. - Wellington Shire Council presses state opposition on roads, rail, farming and regional investment priorities for future
Wellington Shire Council met Victorian Opposition leaders to advocate for better roads, rail services, farming support, tourism investment, and funding commitments to strengthen the region's economy and future development. - Bass Coast Shire Council endorses $55,000 partnership to showcase Western Port marine environment through science and community engagement
Bass Coast Shire Council has endorsed a $55,000, one-year partnership with Western Port Down Under to showcase Western Port marine environment through education, citizen science, and community engagement. - 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. - Lightfoot Wines combines tradition, creativity, and Gippsland flavours with award-winning wines, regional platters, and scenic views
Perched on a limestone bluff above the Mitchell River, Lightfoot Wines blends tradition and innovation, offering tastings, regional platters, and acclaimed wines, cementing its role in Gippsland's food and drink scene. - 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. - Danny O’Brien says the State Budget overlooks Gippsland priorities, with limited regional infrastructure funding
Danny O’Brien says the State Budget overlooks key Gippsland priorities, despite some funding for essential local projects, highlighting ongoing gaps in regional infrastructure investment and service delivery. - New worker accommodation helps Riviera Fresh expand production, attract staff and support regional growth statewide
Two new worker houses funded through the Regional Worker Accommodation Fund will help Riviera Fresh attract staff, expand production, ease labour shortages and support Gippsland's growing fresh produce industry. - Gippsland Water celebrates National Water Week poster winners, honouring young regional artists’ achievements
Gippsland Water announced its National Water Week poster winners, congratulating students for colourful submissions. Four placed in the state competition, with Heyfield Primary School winning $500 for STEM or sustainability projects. - Inverloch students plant 1,000 indigenous plants to strengthen wildlife corridor and boost regional biodiversity conservation
Twenty Inverloch Kongwak Primary School students planted 1,000 indigenous plants, helping create a wildlife corridor that supports native species and strengthens regional biodiversity. - Martin Cameron slams Energy Minister D'Ambrosio's false claims on power prices and jobs in Latrobe Valley
Nationals MP Martin Cameron condemned Energy Minister Lily D'Ambrosio's claims of delivering for Latrobe Valley, citing soaring power prices, weak jobs growth, and neglect of residents during Victoria's energy transition. - Agriculture advisory committee supports East Gippsland farmers through collaboration and regional advocacy initiatives
The Agriculture Sector Advisory Committee advises on policies, programs, and partnerships to support East Gippsland farmers, addressing biosecurity, water security, pest management, and regional agricultural priorities for a resilient sector. - Tim Bull raises concerns over bush nursing funding gaps, service cuts and rising regional cost pressures
Tim Bull raises concerns in Parliament over bush nursing funding, warning regional centres face service cuts, rising costs and growing community fundraising pressure. - 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.
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