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Oak Street Arts Happening free event spotlights local artists and creatives held at recently renovated Drouin Community Hub

The Oak Street Arts Happening, organised by Committee for Drouin and backed by a Baw Baw Shire Council Community Grant, showcased local artists and creatives with market stalls and group displays.

By news@gippsland - 16th October 2023 - Back to News

Drouin's Oak Street was awash with music and art this weekend as locals came together to celebrate the launch of the newly renovated Drouin Community Hub facilities. A free event organised by Committee for Drouin and supported with a Baw Baw Shire Council Community Grant, the Oak Street Arts Happening turned the spotlight on local artists and creatives, and featured market stalls and displays by local groups including:

• Creative Drouin
• Drouin Croquet Club
• 3BBR
• the Senior Citizens
• Rotary Club of Drouin, Community Bank Drouin & District
• Off The Leash Theatre and more

President of the Committee for Drouin Jeannie Haughton was delighted with the community turnout for the launch and excited for the possibilities the Hub presents going forward.

Renovations at Drouin Community Hub focus on enhancing accessibility and flexibility, with new meeting rooms and gathering spaces for expanded community use

Community hub celebration

Ms Haughton said, "The Committee for Drouin is thrilled the hub is open, and even more thrilled with the response from the community which turned up in droves to this event which was designed for the public to explore the fantastic Community area in Oak Street. It's so central and close to public transport - so much potential to gather, have fun, meet others and do stuff!"

Speaking at the event, Mayor of Baw Baw Shire Annemarie McCabe acknowledged the work of the Committee for Drouin for putting together the free event for the community. "It's fantastic to see our community out and about embracing the arts and culture here in the Shire, and I thank Jeannie and the Committee for Drouin for organising today's Arts Happening. It's the perfect way to launch our newly renovated community hub."

Drouin community hub renovations

The works at the Drouin Community Hub follow community consultation to better understand the needs of users. The renovations include improvements to the buildings on both the north and south side of Oak Street.

Oak Street, Drouin (north side - Drouin Senior Citizens Hall)

• New accessible toilets
• New concrete path to meeting rooms
• New windows and doors throughout
• Fresh paint in the main hall and meeting room
• New platform lift connecting to the main backstage area
• Upgraded threshold ramps

Oak Street, Drouin (south side - former playgroup building)

• New entry ramp and rails
• New external concrete path
• Flooring improvements in the front waiting room
• New plasterboard and insulation in the main meeting space
• Porch cleaning and fresh paint

Across both sites, the Hub offers accessible facilities including a main hall and stage, kitchens and servery, and a selection of meeting, office and studio spaces of varying sizes.

Enhanced community space

Mayor McCabe said, "Council has invested over $660,000 to improve this multi-function community space, making the variety of rooms more usable and accessible for all. The Hub is perfect for meetings and all kinds of community activities for the public, and we are very pleased to officially open this space for our community and can't wait to see it used."

An online booking system is currently being developed for the Hub. In the meantime, enquiries and bookings can be made by phone to Baw Baw Shire Council on 1300 229 299 or by email to venue.hire@bawbawshire.vic.gov.au. To read more about the Drouin Community Hub Upgrades, please visit Drouin Community Hub Upgrades.

Pictures from Committee For Drouin Facebook page.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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  South Gippsland Shire Council’s second round of community grants is open until 31 March 2026, with seven drop-in sessions available to assist local clubs and groups with applications.
• Second round of South Gippsland community grants now open, with drop-in support sessions in various dates and locations
  South Gippsland Shire Council’s second round of community grants is open until 31 March 2026, with seven drop-in sessions available to assist local clubs and groups with applications.
• East Gippsland Council launches VendorPanel for streamlined, transparent procurement and supports local businesses with information sessions
  From December 2025, East Gippsland Council will use VendorPanel for streamlined procurement, offering online registration, fair opportunities, and information sessions to help local businesses navigate the platform effectively.
• South Gippsland Shire Council seeks community feedback on two proposed accessible locations for new toilet facilities in Nyora's RSL Park
  South Gippsland Shire Council invites feedback on two proposed Nyora RSL Park toilet locations, offering improved safety, accessibility, and amenities. Submissions close Sunday, 12 October 2025.
• 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 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.
• Council urges transparent, community-focused approach for battery energy storage systems across Baw Baw
  Baw Baw Council raises concerns over proposed BESS projects, urging transparency, protection of prime agricultural land, community input, and stronger oversight of sites outside designated renewable energy zones.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• East Gippsland unites for 16 Days of Activism, raising awareness and preventing gender-based violence across the community
  East Gippsland joins the global 16 Days of Activism campaign, promoting respect, raising awareness of gender-based violence, and hosting community events to foster safety, connection, and inclusion.
• 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.
• South Gippsland Remembrance Day services to be held in various locations and other council updates
  South Gippsland marks Remembrance Day on 11 November with local services honouring veterans. Plus, free green waste disposal, festive giving initiatives, business support, community events, and engagement opportunities across the region this spring.
• East Gippsland Council urges drivers to follow parking limits, protect access and support local businesses this festive season
  East Gippsland drivers are urged to follow festive-season parking limits, respecting time restrictions, loading zones, and disabled bays to ensure town accessibility and support local businesses.
• 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.
• Bass Coast launches energy resilient hubs and emergency dashboard to strengthen community preparedness and recovery
  Bass Coast Shire Council has launched Energy Resilient Community Hubs and an Emergency Dashboard to boost preparedness, strengthen local resilience, and keep communities safe, connected, and supported during emergencies and power outages.
• Serious crime rises reflect community concerns, worsened by Labor's cuts, weakened bail, reduced youth programs, says Melina Bath
  Crime in Eastern Victoria has reached a 20-year high, with Melina Bath condemning Labor's soft approach, police under-resourced, and The Nationals vowing stronger laws, prevention programs, and community safety reforms.
• 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.
• Mayor Cr John White reflects on busy September: Sport, community, citizenship, infrastructure, and engagement across East Gippsland
  September was a busy, rewarding month for East Gippsland, with community events, sports, citizenship ceremonies, infrastructure projects, policy consultations, and initiatives boosting local tourism and engagement.
• Baw Baw Shire Council endorses 10-Year Master Plan to preserve and enhance Drouin’s Alex Goudie Park
  Baw Baw Council has endorsed a 10-year master plan for Drouin’s Alex Goudie Park, guiding future improvements, protecting its natural and cultural heritage, and enhancing amenities for community enjoyment.
• East Gippsland celebrates community contributions at 2026 Australia Day Awards with Dr Patrick Kinsella as Ambassador
  East Gippsland’s 2026 Australia Day Awards, hosted 21 January at Lakes Entrance, will honour residents’ contributions with Dr Patrick Kinsella as Ambassador, featuring live entertainment, barbecue, and community celebration.
• South Gippsland Shire Council invites the community to join the Garage Sale Trail on November and other projects
  Australia's biggest second-hand treasure hunt returns this November across two weekends, offering households the chance to declutter and earn cash, while bargain hunters uncover unique finds and help divert goods from landfill.
• Baw Baw Shire Council meeting snapshot - Wednesday 24 September 2025
  Baw Baw Shire Council appointed Tilla Buden as CEO, adopted the Domestic Animal Management Plan, awarded Drouin streetscape contract, deferred Alex Goudie Park Master Plan, and endorsed updated delegation guidelines at its 24 September meeting.
• Baw Baw Shire Council meeting snapshot - Wednesday 24 September 2025
  Baw Baw Shire Council appointed Tilla Buden as CEO, adopted the Domestic Animal Management Plan, awarded Drouin streetscape contract, deferred Alex Goudie Park Master Plan, and endorsed updated delegation guidelines at its 24 September meeting.
• East Gippsland Water invites community feedback through annual customer satisfaction survey this October
  East Gippsland Water is inviting customers to complete its annual satisfaction survey, providing feedback on water quality, service, and community engagement. Responses will guide future improvements and participants can win a $100 bill credit.
• Inverloch dairy farmer Mick Hughes highlights community collaboration survive South Gippsland's dry season challenges
  Inverloch dairy farmer Mick Hughes credits collaboration with the Inverloch Cluster and local water authorities for navigating South Gippsland's recurring dry conditions and improving farm drought resilience.
• Danny O'Brien praises Gippsland community's generosity supporting Foster Kids after ram raid destroyed Christmas gifts
  Danny O'Brien praised Gippsland's generosity after a ram raid devastated A Better Life For Foster Kids, urging continued support through toy donations, PJ Day participation, and community involvement to brighten children's lives.
• East Gippsland celebrates connection, creativity, and community with 2025 month-long Seniors Festival program
  East Gippsland Shire Council presents the 2025 Seniors Festival, offering over 60 free and low-cost events celebrating connection, creativity, wellbeing, and community for older residents throughout October.
• Darren Chester joins East Gippsland community to honour fallen Victoria police officers on Remembrance Day
  Darren Chester joined the East Gippsland community for National Police Remembrance Day in Bairnsdale, honouring Victoria Police officers who lost their lives and recognising those who continue to serve.
• Darren Chester congratulates Infusa Distillery founders for showcasing Gippsland's produce, driving growth in local food and beverage industry
  Darren Chester congratulated Infusa Distillery founders Stu and Jo Taylor for their award-winning spirits, local partnerships, and contribution to Gippsland's food and beverage industry, praising their innovation, growth, and regional pride.
• Baw Baw Shire Council adopts 2025 - 2029 Road Management Plan, updating registers for safe, sustainable, community-focused roads and footpaths
  Baw Baw Shire Council has endorsed the 2025-2029 Road Management Plan, updating public road and footpath registers, removing recreational Walhalla Road sections, and ensuring safe, sustainable local road management.
• Danny O’Brien thanks Gippsland community for generosity supporting foster children’s Christmas Giving Tree appeal
  Danny O’Brien thanked Gippslanders for their generosity in supporting the Giving Tree appeal, helping ensure foster children receive Christmas gifts and feel remembered, valued, and cared for this holiday season.
• 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.
• East Gippsland expands Whelans Group road maintenance contract, ensuring service continuity and local job retention across shire
  East Gippsland Council has expanded Whelans Group’s road maintenance role, taking over areas previously managed by Cranes Asphalting, ensuring service continuity, high standards, and retention of local jobs across the shire.
• 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.
• South Gippsland Council adopts Eftsure to securely verify vendor payments, preventing cybercrime and payment fraud risks
  South Gippsland Shire Council now uses Eftsure to securely verify vendor bank details, reducing the risk of outgoing payments being intercepted by cybercriminals or fraudsters. More information is available online.
• 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.
• Bass Coast Shire Council sets four-year strategic direction with refreshed Community Vision, Council Plan, and Annual Action Plan
  Bass Coast Shire Council has adopted its refreshed Community Vision 2045, Council Plan 2025-2029, and Annual Action Plan, setting a community-shaped strategic direction celebrating the region’s diverse landscapes and values.
• East Gippsland Mayor Jodie Ashworth urges vigilance, community support and preparedness during recent extreme heat and bushfire risks
  East Gippsland Mayor acknowledges recent extreme heat, commends community responses, urges vigilance, bushfire preparedness, checking on vulnerable people, accessing support services, and using Vic Emergency app and Emergency Dashboard.
• Bass Coast Shire Council adopts 2024 - 2025 Annual Report, showcasing community achievements and future strategic direction
  Bass Coast Shire Council has adopted its 2024 - 2025 Annual Report, celebrating achievements, community progress, and the completion of the 2021 - 2025 Council Plan while setting a new strategic direction for 2025-2029.
• Phillip Island gears up for the return of MotoGP and Marquee October events across Bass Coast
  Phillip Island hosts a huge October of events, headlined by the 2025 MotoGP, drawing 100,000 fans for racing, music, and entertainment, with free Community Day tickets and Cowes transformed into an entertainment hub.
• Melina Bath encourages groups to apply for grants supporting veterans and restoring community memorials by 3 February 2026
  Melina Bath backs local organisations to apply for grants supporting veterans, with funding available for facility upgrades and restoring community war memorials. Applications close 3 February 2026.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Baw Baw Shire Council approves Roadside Trading Policy and Open Space Strategy following community feedback
  Baw Baw Council has adopted its new Roadside and Footpath Trading Policy and Open Space Strategy, following extensive community consultation to guide safe, vibrant, and accessible public spaces.
• Omeo Mountain Bike Park officially opens, delivering world-class trails, boosting tourism, community, and local economy
  Omeo’s 114-kilometre, $10 million mountain bike park has officially opened, offering world-class trails, boosting tourism, energising local businesses, and celebrating years of community vision, planning, and collaboration.
• Cowes Primary students visited Berninneit, meeting Mayor Halstead, exploring community spaces, learning about leadership and environment
  Curious Cowes Primary students meet Mayor Halstead at Berninneit, exploring local government, community spaces and environmental leadership during community walk visit.
• East Gippsland celebrates National Volunteer Week 2026, honouring everyday heroes strengthening local communities
  East Gippsland Shire celebrates National Volunteer Week 2026, recognising local volunteers’ extraordinary contributions and encouraging community members to get involved, with nominations open for the Volunteer Honour Roll all year.
• East Gippsland Council to install raised pedestrian crossings and enhanced lighting on Lakes Entrance Church Street
  East Gippsland Council will install two raised pedestrian crossings and improved lighting on Church Street, Lakes Entrance, enhancing safety, prioritising pedestrians, and supporting safer travel for residents and visitors.
• 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 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.
• Meet with South Gippsland Mayor Hersey to discuss ideas or issues that matter to you and your community and other council updates
  South Gippsland Shire Council is offering multiple opportunities for community engagement, upcoming events, free workshops, grants, vaccination sessions, and council services throughout Summer 2026 for residents and local businesses.
• Darren Chester backs Stratford runner's 300 km charity challenge supporting free 3D hands in Sale
  Stratford ultra-runner Chris Dixon will run 300 km in Sale to raise $50,000 for Free 3D Hands, supported by Darren Chester and local runners backing the inspiring community event.
• Baw Baw Shire honours nine outstanding individuals and groups at 2026 Australia Day Awards ceremony held on 22 January 2026
  Nine individuals and groups were honoured at Baw Baw Shire’s 2026 Australia Day Awards for outstanding community service, celebrated by Mayor Kate Wilson and the local community.
• East Gippsland drivers urged to follow parking limits this festive season to support local businesses
  East Gippsland Shire Council reminds drivers to follow festive season parking limits, ensuring accessibility, supporting local businesses, and avoiding fines, while respecting loading zones and disabled parking bays.
• 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.
• Wellington Shire Council invites open conversations on financial pressures impacting community services, roads, and facilities
  Wellington Shire Council faces rising costs, rate caps, and funding pressures, yet remains committed to delivering essential services and urging government reform to better support regional communities into the future.
• East Gippsland opens nominations for 2026 Australia Day Awards recognising outstanding community contributions and achievements
  East Gippsland Shire Council invites nominations for the 2026 Australia Day Awards, recognising individuals, groups, and events for outstanding community contributions in volunteering, sport, arts, environment, and service.
• Cape Paterson Traffic Plan adopted to improve safety through community-driven road and pedestrian upgrades
  Bass Coast Shire Council has adopted the Cape Paterson Traffic Management Plan, developed with strong community input to improve safety through speed reductions, traffic calming, better intersections, and pedestrian-cyclist connectivity.
• Baw Baw Shire Council secures funding for four key road safety projects through TAC and federal Blackspot Programs
  Baw Baw Shire Council secured TAC and Federal Blackspot funding for four key road safety projects in Warragul and Drouin, targeting high-risk areas with upgrades to improve safety for all road users.
• Baw Baw Shire Council appoints experienced leader Tilla Buden as new chief executive officer commencing on November 2025
  Baw Baw Shire Council has appointed Tilla Buden as its new CEO, bringing extensive leadership experience and community focus. She will formally commence in the role on 17 November 2025.
• Baw Baw Shire Council meeting snapshot - Wednesday 27 August 2025
  Baw Baw Shire Council's 27 August meeting covered petitions, Warragul planning permits, Aberfeldy roadworks, draft strategies, community consultation, governance updates, with meetings live-streamed and open for public participation.
• Baw Baw Shire to gain two new kindergartens located at the Neerim South Primary School and Warragul Regional College opening in 2028
  Baw Baw Shire will gain two new kindergartens at Neerim South and Warragul, opening in 2028, easing local demand and supporting families as part of the State’s Best Start reforms.
• Baw Baw Shire Council endorses 2026 - 2029 Domestic Animal Management Plan to promote safety, welfare, responsible ownership
  Baw Baw Council has endorsed the 2026-2029 Domestic Animal Management Plan to promote responsible pet ownership, enhance animal welfare, ensure community safety, and guide strategic animal management over the next four years.
• South Gippsland Shire Council invites you to submit EOI for Coal Creek food vendor on Living Heritage Days by 14 February 2026
  Coal Creek seeks a local food and drink vendor for Living Heritage Days, held monthly from 7 March. Businesses can boost trade and connect with customers. Applications close 14 February.
• Mayor Rochelle Halstead honoured with MAV 10-year Service Award for her dedication to local government
  Bass Coast Mayor Cr Rochelle Halstead has received the MAV 10-Year Service Award, recognising her decade of dedicated leadership, advocacy, and commitment to strengthening local government and the Bass Coast community.
• Baw Baw Shire Council extends Acting CEO Mick Cummins’ leadership through 2 January 2026 during CEO’s absence
  Baw Baw Shire Council has extended Mick Cummins’ Acting CEO role until 2 January 2026, supporting the organisation while CEO Tilla Buden focuses on health and recovery.
• East Gippsland Youth Art Prize 2025 celebrates creativity, talent, and next generation artists
  East Gippsland’s 2025 Youth Art Prize showcased young artists aged 12–25, celebrating creativity, talent, and community engagement, with winners announced at the Forge Theatre and Arts Hub in Bairnsdale.
• Mallacoota Skate Park Competition returns November 8, promising community fun, BMX, skateboarding, and prizes
  Mallacoota Skate Park Competition on 8 November 2025 will feature BMX and skateboarding contests, learn-to-skate sessions, prizes, music, and food, celebrating community, inclusivity, and active recreation for all ages.
• East Gippsland Council opens 2026 Australia Day Awards nominations to celebrate outstanding community contributions
  East Gippsland Council is calling for nominations for the 2026 Australia Day Awards, celebrating individuals, groups, and events that make outstanding contributions to the community across volunteering, sport, arts, and environment.
• Baw Baw Shire Council returns 37 cultural artefacts to Lardil people in historic Mornington Island repatriation
  Baw Baw Shire Mayor Danny Goss led a historic journey to Mornington Island, repatriating 37 cultural artefacts to the Lardil People, marking a significant step toward reconciliation and cultural heritage restoration.
• Dr Patrick Kinsella’s decades-long contributions to healthcare, sport, media, and community celebrated at 2026 Australia Day Awards
  Dr Patrick Kinsella, East Gippsland Australia Day Ambassador, has impacted healthcare, education, sport, media, and community life for over 40 years; residents are invited to celebrate at 21 January awards.
• Baw Baw Shire Council meeting snapshot - Wednesday 26 November 2025
  At its 26 November meeting, Baw Baw Council extended Mick Cummins as Acting CEO, adopted the Roadside Trading Policy and Open Space Strategy, and progressed key planning and governance decisions.
• South Gippsland immunisation sessions extended with extra times to support community after Leongatha Healthcare Centre closure
  Following Leongatha Healthcare Centre closure, immunisation sessions have been extended, offering full-range vaccines for children, adults, pregnant women, and at-risk groups, with extra times available for community bookings.
• Baw Baw Shire appoints Sally Jones as acting CEO, leading council during temporary transition period
  Baw Baw Shire Council has appointed Ms Sally Jones as Acting CEO from 6 January to 3 February 2026, supporting leadership during CEO Tilla Buden’s medical leave.
• Bass Coast Shire Council delivers new shared path linking Cowes and Ventnor, boosting transport safety and community connectivity
  Bass Coast Shire Council will deliver a new 2km Ventnor Road Shared Path, linking Cowes and Ventnor, improving safety, accessibility, and community connectivity. The $1.96m project is jointly funded with the Australian government.
• Omeo celebrates opening of 114 km world-class mountain bike park set to transform regional adventure tourism
  Omeo has opened a $10 million, 114-kilometre mountain bike park, boosting tourism, supporting local businesses, and celebrating new streetscape and flood-recovery works that strengthen the town’s recreation spaces and future growth.
• Omeo Justice Precinct draft masterplan unveiled to preserve heritage, enhance community use, and boost economy
  Omeo Mountain Bike Park opens December with over 100km of world-class trails, boosting tourism, jobs, and community pride. Final touches, shuttles, and events promise an inclusive, adventure-filled destination.
• Tim Bull condemns Labor government for rejecting Jack’s Law, delaying vital reforms to prevent knife-related harm
  Gippsland East MP Tim Bull criticises Labor for blocking Jack’s Law, a proven reform to enhance police powers, remove dangerous weapons, and improve community safety against knife-related violence.
• 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.
• East Gippsland Council adopts 2024-25 Annual Report, highlighting achievements, advocacy, investment, and community-focused service delivery
  East Gippsland Shire Council has adopted its 2024-25 Annual Report, highlighting achievements in service delivery, infrastructure, advocacy, bushfire recovery, and community resilience while addressing cost-of-living and housing challenges.
• Baw Baw Councillors elect Kate Wilson as Mayor and Suzanne Allen Deputy Mayor for 12-month council leadership term
  Baw Baw Councillors have unanimously elected Kate Wilson as Mayor and Suzanne Allen as Deputy Mayor, leading the Council for the next 12 months and representing the community’s interests.
• Wellington residents can safely dispose of recalled sand at Kilmany Transfer Station, free of charge
  Wellington residents can safely dispose of recalled sand at Kilmany Transfer Station for free, following safety guidelines, while refunds are managed by retailers including Officeworks, Kmart, and Educational Colours.
• Baw Baw Council extends Acting CEO Sally Jones’ term until June 2026 supporting leadership continuity
  Baw Baw Shire Council has extended Acting CEO Sally Jones’ term until June 2026, ensuring strong leadership and continuity while CEO Tilla Buden focuses on health and recovery.
• Baw Baw Council meeting snapshot - Wednesday 10 December 2025
  Baw Baw Council’s 10 Dec meeting updated delegations, planning scheme amendments, social housing concerns, awarded transfer station management contract, adopted Alex Goudie Park Master Plan, approved land sale, and noted governance reports.
• 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.
• Independent Safety Assessment Contract awarded for Bairnsdale Outdoor Pool, ensuring community safety, and facility compliance
  East Gippsland Council has awarded a contract for an independent Bairnsdale Outdoor Pool safety assessment, reviewing facility condition, risks, compliance, and required upgrades while the pool remains closed.
• Gippsland emerges as national hub for industrial hemp, boosting sustainable alternatives to timber
  Gippsland is gaining national attention as a hub for industrial hemp, with pilot projects, crop walks, and the Global Hemp Summit showcasing sustainable alternatives and regional economic opportunities.
• 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.
• East Gippsland’s 2026 Australia Day Awards honours volunteers, youth leaders, and inspiring community events
  Over 200 people gathered at Lakes Entrance to celebrate the 2026 East Gippsland Australia Day Awards, honouring outstanding volunteers, youth leaders, and community events strengthening connection, service, and local spirit.
• East Gippsland Shire Council seeks independent safety audit quotes for Bairnsdale Outdoor Pool to ensure community safety
  East Gippsland Shire Council seeks quotes for an independent safety audit of Bairnsdale Outdoor Pool to assess risks, compliance, and required remedial works, ensuring a safe environment for staff and community.
• Danny O’Brien thanks volunteers and communities for celebrating Australia Day across South Gippsland with the awards and ceremonies
  Danny O’Brien thanked volunteers, councils, and community groups for Australia Day events, celebrating new citizens, recognising local award recipients, and highlighting Gippsland South’s community spirit and contributions.
• 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.
• Gippsland Water reappoints Sarah Cumming as Managing Director, extending leadership and community commitment until 2030
  Gippsland Water has reappointed Sarah Cumming as managing director until 2030, recognising her transformative leadership, strong community focus, and proven results, as the organisation enters a pivotal period of growth and change.
• Stewart Road Bridge reconstruction in Kernot approved, $1.768M federal funding restores vital community infrastructure
  Bass Coast Council’s Stewart Road Bridge reconstruction in Kernot approved, receiving $1.768 million federal funding, restoring safe access, supporting local residents, industry, emergency services, with tendering expected early 2026.