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South Gippsland Shire Council delegation attended Australian Local Government Association in Canberra and more updates

South Gippsland Shire delegation attended ALGA's Canberra Assembly. Council's motions on renewable energy and telecommunications gained unanimous support, alongside discussions with senior officials on regional priorities.

By news@gippsland - 4th July 2024 - Back to News

This week, our Mayor Cr Williams, Deputy Mayor Cr Hersey, Cr Sarah Gilligan and Chief Executive Officer Kerryn Ellis spent four days in Canberra attending the Australian Local Government Association's National General Assembly. South Gippsland Shire Council put up two motions to the Assembly, both of which received unanimous endorsement. One of those motions was regarding securing policy and financial support for communities directly impacted by renewable energy targets, and the other was about reclassifying telecommunications to an essential service.

Mayor Cr Williams, Deputy Mayor Cr Hersey, Cr Sarah Gilligan, and CEO Kerryn Ellis attended ALGA's National General Assembly in Canberra for four days

Canberra visit

While in Canberra they also took the opportunity to meet with the following Australian Government representatives to discuss matters of interest and benefit to our region:

• Senior Advisor to the Prime Minister the Hon. Anthony Albanese
• Advisor to the Hon. Kristy McBain MP - Minster for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories
• Brendan Moon - Coordinator General of the National Emergency Management Agency
• The Hon. Catherine King MP - Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government

In these meetings they raised a number of matters such as the need for:

• Funding and policy support to ensure the developing offshore wind industry provides benefits for our community and businesses, and that infrastructure is provided at the cost of the offshore wind proponents, not Council
• Urgent funding and support for the Mirboo North and other communities impacted by the February storm event
• Coordinated national action to address the impacts of climate change on our coastal communities
• Improved and more resilient telecommunications, particularly in emergency situations

This trip was a great opportunity to share our communities needs and advocate for South Gippsland.

Local Government Elections 2024

Local Government Elections for 2024 are fast approaching. To help prepare our community for the upcoming election period we have put together a webpage to ensure you're well informed about how to enrol, vote and even become a candidate. You can also find a list of key dates to mark in your calendar in the lead up to voting day.

If you are thinking of running for Council, we have collated a number of information sessions so you can pick the time and place that suits you the most. For more information, visit South Gippsland Shire Local Council Elections website.

Combating misinformation

Local elections are a terrific opportunity for people to help shape the future direction of their own community, but they can also attract people who either unintentionally - or intentionally - spread false or inaccurate information. As such, it's important to think carefully about all electoral information you see this election and be on the lookout for misinformation and disinformation:

Misinformation is when information is spread that is believed to be true by those who are sharing it, but which is actually incorrect. Disinformation is when information is designed to deliberately mislead and influence public opinion or obscure the truth for malicious or deceptive purposes.

Being cautious with campaign mail and digital links

In addition to being vigilant about misinformation and disinformation during the local election season, it's crucial to exercise discretion when receiving campaign materials via mail or email. Here are some tips:

• QR Codes: If you receive campaign mail with QR codes, proceed with caution. While QR codes can provide convenient access to information, they can also lead to malicious websites or phishing attempts. Before scanning a QR code, consider the source and whether it's from a legitimate campaign or organisation
• Email Links: Similarly, be wary of links in campaign emails. Cybercriminals often use email phishing to deceive recipients into clicking on harmful links. Verify the sender's authenticity, hover over links to see their destination, and avoid clicking if anything seems suspicious

Remember that your discretion matters. By staying informed and using critical thinking, you can help combat misinformation and protect yourself during the election period. For more information, visit Victorian Electoral Commission ( VEC ) website.

South Gippsland Shire Council's Community Safety team will visit homes for unpaid animal registration renewals due by April 10 annually

Pet registration renewals

South Gippsland Shire Council's Community Safety team will be knocking on doors to follow up unpaid animal registration renewals. Animal registration renewals are due by 10 April each year and get your pet back to you if they become lost. It also helps Council provide a range of services and programs to pet owners, which are in our Domestic Animal Management Plan 2022-2025.

We all forget things now-and-then, so if it simply slipped your mind to pay, you can do so by:

• Calling our friendly Customer Service team on 5662 9200
• Visiting Council's website and clicking on 'Pay' at the top of your screen

Seeing one of our Community Safety team members. They can take payment via EFTPOS or help you do it through the web portal.
An infringement with a value of $385.00 may be issued if you fail to renew your registration, however this is a last resort. If you are needing to renew your pets registration, please head to the South Gippsland Shire Pet Registration website.

Attend our Parmas evening to connect, share stories, and support our community after recent storm events, featuring motivational speaker Warren Davies

Parma for a South Gippsland Farmer

Join us for an evening of Parmas and an opportunity to connect, share stories, and stand together after the storm events that took place earlier this year. Warren Davies, from the Unbreakable Farmer, will be in attendance to share his insights and have a chat with our local farmers. His motivational talks aim to empower farmers helping them navigate challenges and thrive in their livelihoods.

The night is a great opportunity to connect with fellow community members, local businesses and organisations who are dedicated to supporting our farming community. This is a FREE event. Seats are limited, so bookings are essential. Please register your attendance at Parma for a Farmer South Gippsland page.

Hard waste collection

Bookings for the annual hard waste collection service are now open. This provides residents with a convenient way to dispose of hard rubbish, particularly if they are unable to attend a transfer station themselves. All residents are eligible to receive one collection at a fee of $157 per property. A reduced rate of $56 applies for pension card holders. Bookings close in August.

Residents can now book for the annual hard waste collection, offering a convenient disposal option for hard rubbish at $157 per property

Community engagement

Draft Waste and Resource Recovery Plan

As our region continues to grow and evolve, the effective management of waste becomes increasingly critical in order to preserve our environment and quality of life. Therefore, it is important Council plans the provision of waste services not just for the present but also for the foreseeable future.

Council has developed a Draft Plan to not only respond to environmental concerns but also to changing regulatory frameworks and community expectations. Feedback on the Draft Waste and Recovery Plan closes this Sunday 7 July. To read the Plan and provide your feedback, visit Waste and Resource Recovery Plan page.

As our region grows, waste management is crucial for preserving our environment and quality of life. Council's Draft Plan seeks community feedback by July 7

EOI: Exhibit at Coal Creek

Coal Creek Community Park and Museum is seeking Expressions of Interest from individuals or collectives to exhibit at the Park in 2024 and 2025. Coal Creek boasts two exhibition spaces: the Entry Gallery and the Auditorium. Both spaces are open Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday during school terms and every day during the school holidays. Applications close on:

• 11.59pm Friday
• 2 August 2024

Find out more or submit your Expression of Interest, visit Expressions of Interest Sought for Exhibitions at Coal Creek website.

Coal Creek Community Park seeks exhibitors for 2024-2025 in its Entry Gallery and Auditorium. Applications close August 2, 2024, at 11:59 PM

Gippsland Odyssey Extension: Woolamai to Nyora

Bass Coast Shire Council has an opportunity to provide feedback on the proposed Gippsland Odyssey Extension. The proposed extension will connect Woolamai to Nyora - a 25-kilometre link that will extend the trail to beyond 1,100 kilometres.

To find out more and provide your thoughts before 19 July, please visit the Gippsland Odyssey Extension - Woolamai to Nyora website.

NAIDOC Week event

South Gippsland Shire Council invites you to celebrate NAIDOC Week. NAIDOC Week is an opportunity for all Australians to learn about First Nations cultures and histories and to participate in celebrations of one of the oldest, continuous living cultures on earth.

This event will commence with a smoking ceremony which will be followed by an art workshop lead by contemporary Aboriginal artist, Kobi Sainty - activity suitable for all ages.

Here are the details:

• When: Thursday 11 July from 10.00am to 12.00pm
• Where: Leongatha Dakers Centre (23 Smith St, Leongatha)

This is a FREE event. To keep count of attendees, please register at the 2024 NAIDOC Week page.

Community training

Ever wondered how community groups make their flyers and social media posts look so good? It's easy with Canva! Canva is a design platform that can help you to create eye-catching graphics, flyers, newsletters, videos, presentations, social media posts (plus much more) for your community group.

This session will walk you through the basics of using Canva and how not-for-profit groups and organisations can make the most of this online design tool. Here are the details:

• Thursday 11 July
• 6.00pm to 8.00pm
• Korumburra Hub, Little Commercial Street

South Gippsland community members, volunteers, community groups and non-profit organisations are encouraged to register for these exciting training opportunities. To register, visit South Gippsland Shire Community Training website.

Funding opportunities

Community grants

The first round of South Gippsland Shire Council's Community Grants are open now until Saturday 31 August. Grants can be used for both minor and major projects and equipment, planning and developing reports, as well as festivals and events. Community grants provide endless opportunities to level up your community group and enrich our broader community.

Don't miss out on the chance to secure invaluable funding for your not-for-profit organisation. For more information or to apply, visit the South Gippsland Shire Community Grants page.

The SRC program by the Foundation for Rural Regional Renewal supports rural communities with grants up to $25,000 for resilience-building initiatives. Apply via the provided link

Strengthening Rural Communities (SRC) - Prepare and Recover

The Foundation for Rural Regional Renewal's SRC program supports remote, rural, and regional communities in Australia. These Programs aim to enhance resilience and support climate-resilient remote, rural, and regional Australia. They offer grants of up to $25,000 for community-led initiatives that strengthen local capacity and prepare for future disasters

For more information and to apply, please visit Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) website.

Other Funding Opportunities

• Woolworth Pick Fresh Play Fresh Netball Grants
  Submissions close 11.59pm Sunday 7 July
• Telstra Footy Country Grants
  Submissions close 5.00pm Wednesday 7 August
• AFL Road Safety Grants Program
  Applications open 30 May and close 25 August 2024

Pictures from South Gippsland Shire Council website.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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• Bass Coast Council awards $1.01M contract to restore Wonthaggi heritage-listed old post office
  Bass Coast Shire Council has awarded a $1.01 million contract to TS Constructions to restore Wonthaggi heritage-listed Old Post Office, preserving its historic character and ensuring long-term structural integrity.
• Danny O'Brien announces finalised Loch Sport groyne designs, Gippsland Ports to seek tenders before Christmas
  Erosion works on Loch Sport foreshore will begin next year, with designs finalised for new groynes. Danny O'Brien praised the community's persistence and vowed to push for further coastal protection.
• Peri Urban Councils advocate for housing, infrastructure, and policy recognition with state government
  Peri Urban Councils Victoria met government leaders at Spring Street, advocating for housing solutions, essential infrastructure funding, and policy recognition to support rapidly growing peri urban communities sustainably.
• 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.
• 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.
• Danny O'Brien slams Labor's repeated 'Better Roads Blitz' claims as Gippsland roads continue crumbling
  Nationals MP Danny O'Brien has slammed Labor's latest "Better Roads Blitz," saying Gippsland roads remain neglected, unsafe, and underfunded, with locals enduring potholes, hazards, and long-term speed reductions instead of real maintenance.
• Darren Chester praises Moogji Aboriginal Council for advancing health and sustainability in East Gippsland
  Darren Chester visited Moogji Aboriginal Council in Orbost, praising its vital health, youth, and environmental programs that support East Gippsland communities and promote Aboriginal culture, wellbeing, and environmental sustainability.
• 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.
• 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 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.
• From Job expos to farms and sports awards connecting communities across East Gippsland through events and advocacy
  From jobs expos to farm visits, sports awards, and community projects, recent weeks highlighted East Gippsland's talent, resilience, and collaboration, advocacy, and opportunities that strengthen local communities.
• Danny O'Brien warns Labor is risking beachgoers safety by forcing councils, ratepayers to cover LSV funding shortfalls
  Danny O'Brien warns the Allan Labor government is forcing Gippsland councils and ratepayers to cover Life Saving Victoria shortfalls, risking reduced lifeguard patrols despite billions in new emergency services taxes.
• Tim Bull slams government over firewood shortages, fuel loads and lack of practical solutions
  Gippsland East MP Tim Bull has slammed government policy for firewood shortages, warning rising bush fuel loads pose serious risks, calling for extended collection areas, longer seasons and practical fire management.
• Darren Chester completes 19th Melbourne Marathon, joining 14,500 runners in iconic Gippsland sporting tradition
  Darren Chester completed his 19th Melbourne Marathon, joining 14,500 runners. The sold-out event celebrated fitness and community spirit, with Chester inspired by marathon legend John "Dobbo" Dobson's 47th consecutive run.
• Darren Chester commends Mac Waste Group for community commitment and support for Gippsland families
  Darren Chester praised Mac Waste Group for its community commitment, local job creation, youth training initiatives, and support for Gippsland families through its partnership with the Little Jem Foundation and fundraising efforts.
• Darren Chester met Tom Harms in Canberra, praising his WorldSkills selection as testament to talent and community support
  Maffra apprentice Tom Harms will represent Australia in Electrical Installations at the 2026 WorldSkills Competition in Shanghai, after excelling through national trials. Darren Chester praised his achievement as Gippsland talent showcased globally.
• Labor government's VicGrid laws pass with crossbench backing amid Nationals' warning of property rights erosion
  The Allan government's VicGrid laws passed with crossbench support, sparking Nationals' criticism over lost property rights, silenced regional voices, and overreach. The Nationals vow repeal in 2026 to restore landholder protections.
• New drinking fountains installed in Sale and Briagolong Parks to promote health, sustainability and community wellbeing
  Gippsland Water and Wellington Shire Council have installed two new drinking fountains in Sale and Briagolong, promoting health, sustainability, and reusable bottles. Featuring artwork by Gunai artist Alice Pepper, they support community wellbeing.
• New drinking fountains installed in Sale and Briagolong Parks to promote health, sustainability and community wellbeing
  Gippsland Water and Wellington Shire Council have installed two new drinking fountains in Sale and Briagolong, promoting health, sustainability, and reusable bottles. Featuring artwork by Gunai artist Alice Pepper, they support community wellbeing.
• Albanese government limits tribunal powers, undermining veterans' rights and restricting reviews of military honours
  The Albanese government has limited the Defence Honours Tribunal, banning reviews of actions over 20 years old, restricting veterans' appeals, and undermining independent recognition of historic military bravery.
• 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.
• Allan Labor government backs First Nations athletes in Eastern Victoria with new sports grants
  The Allan Labor government has announced over $67,000 in Aboriginal Sport Participation Grants, supporting First Nations athletes in Eastern Victoria with travel, uniforms, and equipment to compete locally and nationally.
• 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.
• Darren Chester meets new BRHS CEO Peter Abraham to discuss future opportunities for East Gippsland Healthcare
  Darren Chester met new BRHS CEO Peter Abraham to discuss healthcare challenges, commend local innovations improving patient care, and strengthen collaboration to deliver high-quality, accessible health services across East Gippsland.
• Melina Bath urges Labor government to scrap emergency services tax as VFF survey shows farmers' frustration and concern
  The Nationals' Melina Bath urged the Allan Labor government to scrap the emergency services tax, citing VFF survey findings showing widespread financial, mental, and regulatory pressures on Victorian farmers.
• 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.
• Danny O'Brien urges Labor government to fund new Port Welshpool Coast Guard vessel for community safety
  Danny O'Brien urges the Allan Labor government to urgently fund a new $2 million vessel for Port Welshpool Coastguard, ensuring volunteers can safely cover Corner Inlet, Wilsons Promontory, and protect locals.
• 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
• Farm fencing grants protect 300 hectares of biodiversity and boost waterway health across West Gippsland
  Over 300 hectares of farmland will be fenced through West Gippsland CMA's farm fencing grants, protecting waterways, biodiversity, and livestock while supporting sustainable farming and revegetation across the catchment.
• 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.
• Darren Chester slams Albanese government veterans medal review limit, undermining Tribunal independence
  Shadow Minister Darren Chester has condemned Labor's legislation imposing a 20-year limit on veterans' medal reviews, arguing it undermines the Tribunal's independence and disenfranchises veterans and families seeking fair recognition.
• 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.
• Darren Chester praises Orbost Community College student leaders for passion, ideas and commitment to East Gippsland's future
  Darren Chester praised Orbost Community College student leaders for their passion and ideas during discussions on education, health, economy, and community, highlighting the importance of listening to youth for regional Victoria's future.
• Bass Coast wins National AustStab Award for sustainable road recycling and innovative rehabilitation
  Bass Coast Shire Council won the 2025 AustStab Award for Excellence for pioneering road recycling methods, cutting emissions by 85%, truck movements by 80%, and delivering faster, more sustainable, durable roads with less disruption.
• Have your say on the draft Roadside and Footpath Trading Policy balance road access, submit by 28 September 2025
  Baw Baw Shire Council invites feedback on its Draft Roadside and Footpath Trading Policy, aiming to balance vibrant business activity with safe pedestrian access. Consultation runs 29 August - 28 September on Baw Baw Connect.
• Bass Coast secures long-term protection for distinctive landscapes and Western Port Woodlands
  Bass Coast Shire Council welcomes the Bass Coast Statement of Planning Policy, securing long-term protections for 24 townships, distinctive landscapes, and the Western Port Woodlands while guiding sustainable future growth.
• Have Your Say on Wonthaggi structure plan review aiming to guide growth, community needs and opportunities
  Bass Coast Shire Council is reviewing the Wonthaggi Structure Plan. Have your say on the town's growth, housing, jobs, heritage, and future opportunities to help shape Wonthaggi as Bass Coast regional hub.
• Tim Bull demands end to brumby shooting as pest and weed control programs face cuts
  Gippsland East MP Tim Bull has urged the state government to scrap its costly brumby shooting program, criticising cuts to pest and weed control services vital for farmers and rural communities.
• Tim Bull demands transparency on missing $13.15M for cancelled Marlo to Cape Conran pathway
  Gippsland East MP Tim Bull has demanded answers on the missing $13.15 million for the cancelled Marlo - Cape Conran pathway, urging funds be redirected locally if the project is abandoned.
• Tim Bull slams Labor's cuts to 'Youth Crime Prevention', unveils $100M Safer Communities Plan
  Gippsland East MP Tim Bull criticised Labor's youth crime prevention cuts, promoting The Nationals' $100 million Safer Communities Plan combining tougher laws with prevention programs to improve safety and restore community confidence.
• Darren Chester supports Tribunal decision to defend veterans' right, opposing Albanese government plan limiting Acts of Gallantry review
  The Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal will defend veterans' rights at a Senate inquiry, opposing the Albanese government's plan to impose a 20-year limit on reviewing acts of gallantry.
• Nationals pledge to restore Parentline funding, criticise Labor's decision to axe vital family counselling service for Gippslanders
  The Nationals vow to reinstate Parentline funding if elected, condemning Labor's cut to the vital family counselling service that supports Victorian parents, particularly in regional communities facing limited access to services.
• Danny O'Brien condemns Labor for empty social housing amid growing waitlists and rental shortages in Gippsland
  Danny O'Brien has criticised Labor for leaving social housing vacant as waitlists grow, citing fewer homes, shrinking rental availability, rising costs, and failed policies driving investment away in Gippsland South.
• Martin Cameron says Labor fails on crime, wasting millions on machete bins instead of protecting Gippsland
  Crime in Latrobe has surged under Labor, with Moe incidents up 26% and retail theft 65%. Nationals' Martin Cameron says only their Safer Communities Plan will restore safety.
• Farmers warn Woolworths' green-and-gold Hillview butter misleads consumers and undercuts Australian dairy
  Australian dairy farmers warn Woolworths' green-and-gold Hillview butter misleads consumers, undercuts local producers, and risks jobs, as imported US butter competes with declining domestic dairy production.
• Nationals' $100M Safer Communities Plan targets crime crisis with tough laws and prevention programs across Gippsland
  Martin Cameron backed a $100 million Safer Communities Plan, promising tougher laws and prevention programs to tackle Victoria's crime crisis, restore community safety, and support at-risk youth, contrasting Labor's cuts.
• Cowes Foreshore Precinct Project begins, for safer, more accessible visitor experience from $9.6M shared investment
  Work has begun on the $9.6 million Cowes Foreshore Precinct Project, delivering staged upgrades to create a safer, more accessible, pedestrian-friendly destination while supporting businesses and preserving Cowes' vibrant visitor appeal.
• Forge Theatre's school holiday season brings classic tales, comedy chaos and heartfelt community spirit to East Gippsland
  The Forge Theatre's school holiday season features The Velveteen Rabbit, Polite Mammals, and The Heartbreak Choir, offering family fun, comedy, and heartfelt community spirit with something for everyone to enjoy.