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South Gippsland community mourns over the passing of three well-respected members and other council updates

South Gippsland Shire Council update on their projects and more.

By news@gippsland - 10th August 2023 - Back to News

The deaths of three well-respected members of our community - and the serious condition of another - have shocked and saddened us all. Many of us knew them well due to their contribution to the Korumburra community and the significant contribution they have made to education, religious and community support organisations. This loss will be felt greatly for a long time.

Community mourns the tragic loss of three esteemed community members and one critical has deeply saddened us. Their impactful contributions are cherished

Council has been in touch with the family and will do what we can to support them. They are taking strength from the community rallying around them - demonstrating the same caring qualities that they would have extended to others during such a difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends and all of you who are impacted by this loss.

One Gippsland visits Canberra

This week, our Mayor Nathan Hersey and Chief Executive Officer Kerryn Ellis along with other representatives from One Gippsland, went to Canberra. With representatives from Latrobe and Baw Baw Shire Councils, as well as Food and Fibre Gippsland, it was the perfect opportunity to continue our ongoing advocacy on behalf of our region.

The delegation was led by Mayor Nathan Hersey and met with:

• The Honourable Catherine King MP
• The Honourable Kristy McBain MP
• The Honourable David Littleproud MP
• The Honourable Darren Chester MP
• Senator the Honourable Carol Brown
• Senior ministerial advisors

Key topics discussed included the new energy transition, offshore wind, the ports at Barry Beach, and investment in roads. Being part of One Gippsland gives us the opportunity to show a united front on behalf of our residents and make our voice even stronger to those at higher levels of government.

Mayor Nathan Hersey, CEO Kerryn Ellis, and One Gippsland members, including Latrobe and Baw Baw Councils and Food and Fibre Gippsland, advocated for our region in Canberra

Offshore Wind Meetings

A few weeks ago, representatives from Star of the South briefed councillors on how their project is progressing and other relevant matters to South Gippsland. At this time, they announced their interest in seeing some of their operations based out of Port Anthony and Barry Beach Marine Terminal in addition to Port Hastings. This was welcomed by the council as we consider it the most appropriate and logical way to achieve employment benefits and economic success for our region.

The ports at Barry Beach are much closer to the proposed Gippsland Offshore Renewable Energy Zone, in fact they are the only industrial ports within 10 hours sailing time, and are surrounded by industrial land. Their use has economic and environmental advantages and will help minimise transport costs and maximise efficiencies. Rigorous Environmental Impact Studies showing any impacts to our natural surroundings and how they can be effectively managed are a must for council to support this.

Renewable energy briefing

Councillors were also briefed by Member for Gippsland South, Danny O'Brien MP this week on his recent trip to overseas offshore wind farms and the benefits of the energy transition to renewables. Danny O'Brien also released a statement regarding what he would like to see as part of the offshore wind development in Victoria. Much of what he said he is taking to Parliament is what we have been advocating for since initial consultation with the Federal Government occurred.

South Gippsland Shire Council is working hard in this space to ensure that, where possible, our community's voice resonates through and we get as much benefit as possible from this new industry.

Star of the South expressed intent for operations at Port Anthony and Barry Beach, in addition to Port Hastings. Council appreciates this strategy for regional employment and success

Visit from Tom McIntosh

On Tuesday, Tom McIntosh MP (Member for Eastern Victoria) came to Mirboo North to view the Mirboo North Kindergarten. Council recently received $150,000 from the Victorian Government to undertake pre-construction planning for the future development of a new Early Learning Centre for Mirboo North.

The planning will include the development of a scope, facility design and costings. While in town, Tom also stopped by the ArtCubes to have a chat with local artists and check out the magnificent artwork on display. Tom is pictured here with Cheri Rose - 3D and painting artist.

Tom McIntosh MP visited Mirboo North Kindergarten to assess plans. Council got $150,000 from Victoria for pre-construction work on a new Early Learning Centre

Radovick Street trees

Trees along Radovick Street in Korumburra will soon have a new look, after they are pruned using a process called 'pollarding' next week. The London Plan and Desert Ash trees have historical significance as they are representative of the trees planted as part of the town's original streetscape, but have since been impacted by asymmetrical crown growth caused by selective pruning to accommodate powerlines.

To determine the best treatment, 17 trees along the street were assessed by an independent arborist who determined the health, structural condition and risk of each tree, and provided a number of recommendations. The report stated that 12 trees have high retention value and three have moderate retention value. It is also advised that two should be removed due to ongoing safety concerns, which has since occurred.

The recommended treatment for the 15 remaining trees is pollarding, which is an extreme pruning technique that will cut the tree limbs back substantially to stimulate regrowth. The trees will be pruned back to these same points annually, limiting asymmetrical growth, and help retain the health of the trees for another 50 years.

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Report indicated 12 trees along Radovick Street in Korumburra, with high retention value, three with moderate, and advised removal of two for safety, now done

Unsealed road re-sheeting

In exciting news, our unsealed road re-sheeting is underway for 2023! The goal is to enhance 100 kilometres of roads in Leongatha South, Outtrim, Korumburra South, Kardella, Pound Creek, Tarwin Lower, and Middle Tarwin areas.

To accomplish this monumental task, we are working hand-in-hand with local suppliers who will provide us with close to 60,000 tonnes of high-quality materials. This teamwork ensures that we have all the necessary resources to pave the way for success.

Improving roads over 100 km in Leongatha South, Outtrim, Korumburra South, Kardella, Pound Creek, Tarwin Lower, and Middle Tarwin regions

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 $150 per property. A reduced rate of $53 applies for pension card holders. Bookings close in August. To book, please visit the Hard Waste Collection page.

Community Grants

The first round of community grants are open now until Thursday 31 August. Grants can be used for both minor and major projects and equipment, planning and developing reports, and festivals and events.

If you weren't able to make it to any of the drop-in sessions, contact Sophie Bolding, council's Community Strengthening Officer on 5662 9200 or sophie.bolding@southgippsland.vic.gov.au to arrange another time to discuss your project idea. For more information and to apply, please visit Community Grants page.

Strzelecki Ward Council

Mayor Hersey along with Councillors Felton and Keerie are providing opportunities for locals in their Ward to come and have a chat. So far, there have been opportunities in Loch, Meeniyan and Kongwak, with two more scheduled. These are:

• Friday 11 August 12.00pm to 1.30pm - Poowong Hall
• Friday 11 August 2.00pm to 3.00pm - Nyora General Store

Mayor and Deputy Mayor Sessions

The Meet the Mayor and Deputy Mayor sessions are back again in August. Held on Tuesday 15 August between 10.00am and 2.00pm, these sessions are 20-minutes long and provide an opportunity for the community to chat directly with Mayor Nathan Hersey and Deputy Mayor Clare Williams.

To book, please contact OfficeoftheCEO@southgippsland.vic.gov.au Preference will be given to those who have not had an opportunity before.

EPA Gippsland info sessions

The EPA Air Science and Citizen Science teams are hosting two information sessions to talk about air quality and other environmental monitoring projects in the Latrobe Valley. The Citizen Science team will be there to talk about other initiatives happening across Victoria and help them understand interests of citizen scientists. Here are the details:

• When: Wednesday 6 September
• Where: EPA Gippsland Office, 8-12 Seymour Street, Traralgon
• Session One Time: 2.00pm to 4.00pm
• Session Two Time: 5.30pm to 7.00p

To register, please email Stacey Clark with the session you wish to attend.

Adam and Poh's Australian bites

We are thrilled that Adam Liaw and Poh Ling Yeow have filmed an episode of their program 'Great Australian Bites' at Coal Creek Community Park and Museum. The episode will be on SBS on Tuesday 22 August and forms part of a wider Gippsland feature, so make sure you check it out!

Offshore Wind transmission

You might remember earlier this year there was an opportunity to provide your feedback into the offshore wind transmission in Gippsland.
A second round of consultation is now open with some pop-ups taking place in South Gippsland on Thursday 17 August at the following locations:

• Foster IGA: 10.30am to 12.30pm.
• Leongatha Memorial Hall: 2.00pm to 4.00pm

For more information and to provide your feedback, please visit Offshore Wind Transmission in Gippsland and Portland website. Consultation closes Sunday 27 August 2023.

Council meeting date

Council Meetings are normally held on the third Wednesday of the month at 2.00pm in the council Chambers, Leongatha. The next council meeting will be held on Wednesday 16 August, 2.00pm.

To find out about future council meetings, head to Council Meeting Dates Schedule 2023 page.

Request for tenders

Council is seeking submissions from qualified companies/applicants for the following:

• RFT/372 - Koonwarra Landfill Cell 5 - Provision of Environmental Auditing, GITA and Third Party CQA Services. Tenders close Tuesday 15 August 2023 at 2.00pm AEST
• RFT/380 - Provision of Bituminous Surfacing and Associated Services. Tenders close Tuesday 22 August 2023 at 2.00pm AEST
• RFT/369 - Koonwarra Landfill Cell 5 Construction

Tenders close Tuesday 29 August 2023 at 2.00pm AEST. Documentation is available from council's e-Tendering Portal.

Pictures from South Gippsland Shire Council website.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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  Latrobe Mayor Sharon Gibson has criticised the Victorian government for again excluding Latrobe from Community Connectors funding, despite higher crime, family violence and drug-related harm rates than funded metropolitan municipalities.
• Regional hospitals face staffing and funding pressures as new nurse-to-patient ratios take effect across Gippsland health services
  East Gippsland Shire Council is installing two louvered roofs at Bairnsdale Library, improving shade, weather protection and outdoor activities, with works expected to take two weeks.
• Darren Chester demands urgent Labor investment to fix dangerous Princes Highway and Gippsland arterial roads
  Darren Chester urged Labor governments to urgently fund Gippsland roads, citing dangerous conditions, poor maintenance and reduced investment while highlighting previous Coalition funding for highway and arterial road upgrades.
• Upgraded Traralgon Indoor Stadium welcomes more community sport and elite events with $6M investment
  A $6 million upgrade to Traralgon Gippsland Regional Indoor Sports Stadium delivers improved facilities, creates local jobs, and positions the venue to attract more elite sporting events and community participation.
• Latrobe City Council ranks among Victoria's Top Five for Community Satisfaction in 2026 Snap Send Solve index
  Latrobe City Council has ranked fifth in Victoria for community satisfaction, scoring 64.6 in the 2026 Snap Send Solve Index, exceeding both national and Victorian averages.
• 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.
• Darren Chester blames Labor-Greens timber shutdown as Maryvale Mill job losses hit Gippsland workers and families
  Federal MP Darren Chester says 84 more Maryvale Mill job losses stem from Labor-Greens forestry policies, urging state and federal governments to fund an economic transition plan for the Latrobe Valley.
• Regional hospitals face staffing and funding pressures as new nurse-to-patient ratios take effect across Gippsland health services
  New nurse-to-patient ratios have passed Parliament, with Gippsland hospitals reclassified, but workforce shortages and funding pressures raise concerns over implementation and patient care.
• Yarragon weekend escape offers country hospitality, local flavours, shopping and scenic West Gippsland adventures
  Yarragon offers an easy West Gippsland weekend escape from Melbourne, combining boutique shopping, local food and wine, scenic walks, galleries, markets and welcoming country accommodation.
• 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.
• The Nationals' $5 Better Roads Plan promises pothole repairs and long-term maintenance across neglected Gippsland road network
  The Nationals' $5 billion Better Roads plan would tackle Gippsland's deteriorating roads, repair one million potholes, restore preventative maintenance and establish Better Roads Victoria for improved standards.
• Darren Chester congratulates Maffra student Jaxon Marshall on National Youth Parliament selection representing Gippsland in Canberra
  Maffra Secondary College student Jaxon Marshall will represent Gippsland at the 2026 National Youth Parliament, earning praise from Darren Chester for bringing regional and agricultural perspectives to Canberra.
• Draft Omeo District Place Plan released for after 10 months of consultation for final community feedback until 2 October 2026
  East Gippsland Shire Council has released the draft Omeo District Place Plan for feedback, prioritising health, education, housing, employment, social connection, environmental care and emergency preparedness. Submissions close October 2.
• Latrobe Regional Gallery unveils spring exhibitions celebrating place, culture, community, history and the natural world
  Latrobe Regional Gallery spring program features five exhibitions exploring Gippsland places, community, culture, history and nature, alongside Japanese traditions and contemporary artistic responses.
• Warragul Leisure Centre extends outdoor pool season following community feedback with revised opening hours through April 2027
  Warragul Leisure Centre will extend outdoor pool access from October, introducing revised opening hours following community feedback, with the schedule continuing through April 10, 2027.
• Latrobe City extends Phoenix partnership, securing NBL matches and delivering sporting, community and economic benefits
  Latrobe City Council has extended its partnership with South East Melbourne Phoenix, securing two NBL matches across the next two seasons, delivering elite sport, community engagement and economic benefits.
• Melina Bath condemned Labor over soaring vehicle thefts, with Victoria recording nearly twice New South Wales' victims
  Melina Bath has condemned Labor over soaring vehicle thefts, citing Victoria's high theft rate and major increases across eastern Victoria, while calling for more police, stronger bail laws and tougher sentencing.
• Metung mother Lily Martyn establishes foundation supporting neurodivergent children, young people and families across Gippsland
  Metung mother Lily Martyn has launched Do It For Foundation Gippsland, supporting neurodivergent children, young people and families. The foundation has connected 95 East Gippsland families seeking support, understanding and practical solutions.
• Cann River Cafe creates local employment pathways through community training and youth opportunities
  Cann River has opened Fern & Feather Cafe, a community-owned training initiative providing hospitality skills, employment pathways, youth opportunities and funding for local community programs.
• Mirboo North stadium funding still awaited after decade of community campaigning for modern sporting facility
  Mirboo North continues seeking funding for a new stadium after more than a decade of campaigning. Danny O’Brien is urging the Education Minister to support redevelopment.
• The Nationals unveil $40M plan offering health workers incentives to fill critical regional jobs across Gippsland and Victoria
  The Nationals propose $40 million over four years for a Victorian Rural Health Workforce Incentive Scheme, offering eligible regional health workers up to $10,000 for relocation, accommodation and professional development.
• Parma for a Farmer returns to Poowong, bringing free food, laughter, community and mental health support on 17 September 2026
  Parma for a Farmer returns to the Poowong Hotel on September 17, offering local farmers and workers a free meal, comedy, connection and conversations supporting mental health and wellbeing.
• Carran Carran restoration project strengthens river health, habitat connectivity and flood resilience across West Gippsland
  West Gippsland CMA's long-term Carran Carran restoration project is improving river health, reducing flood-related avulsion risks, restoring habitat connectivity, controlling willows and supporting native fish, agriculture and communities.
• New Bairnsdale worker accommodation nears completion, boosting healthcare workforce capacity across East Gippsland communities
  Bairnsdale new 28-apartment healthcare worker accommodation is nearing completion, providing affordable housing for up to 32 staff and strengthening regional health services while supporting local jobs and investment.
• Wellington Shire Council updates flood mapping to improve safety, planning, climate resilience and development decisions across the municipality
  Wellington Shire Council is updating flood mapping and planning controls, incorporating climate impacts, to improve safety, guide development and manage flood risks. Public submissions close 2 November 2026.
• Moe Town Hall seeks resident organisation to activate historic venue through regular community arts programs until 30 September 2026
  Latrobe City Council has opened expressions of interest for an organisation to establish an ongoing residency at Moe Town Hall, delivering regular arts, cultural and community activities while keeping the venue accessible.
• Wellington Shire Council retains in-house library service following review confirming best value for community needs
  Wellington Shire Council has endorsed the outcome of its Wellington Libraries Service Review, confirming library services will continue to be delivered as is.
• Melina Bath calls on Labor to protect locally raised foreshore funds and community priorities across Eastern Victoria
  Nationals MP Melina Bath has urged Labor to guarantee $500,000 raised by San Remo residents remains dedicated to local foreshore projects following committee merger concerns.
• Phillip Island prepares for final MotoGP weekend celebrating three decades of racing, community spirit, entertainment and history
  Phillip Island will host its final MotoGP from October 23-25, celebrating three decades of racing while showcasing community festivities, entertainment and the island’s motorsport legacy.
• Nationals demand stronger policing as rising Latrobe Valley crime fuels growing community safety concerns and frustration
  The Nationals say rising Latrobe Valley crime and fewer police officers demand urgent Labor government action, calling for stronger policing, tougher laws and better resources to restore community safety.
• Baw Baw Shire Council appoints Anthony Petherbridge as third new director following organisational restructure
  Baw Baw Shire Council has appointed Anthony Petherbridge as Director Community and Planning Services following its restructure, joining two new directors and bringing extensive strategic planning and executive-level local government experience.
• Baw Baw Shire Council urges election candidates to fund critical projects before Victorian state election in November
  Baw Baw Shire Council is urging Victorian election candidates to fund critical local projects, including road upgrades, trails, sporting infrastructure, business development and a new West Gippsland Hospital.
• Have your say on the Planning Scheme Amendment C161egip - Lakes Entrance Northern Growth Area (Revised) to unlock growth until 21 September 2026
  East Gippsland Shire Council is simplifying planning controls in Lakes Entrance Northern Growth Area, aiming to unlock housing growth, reduce red tape and support development over the next 30-plus years.
• Marlo's Healeys road timber bridge to be replaced with stronger steel structure built for 100 years
  East Gippsland Shire Council will replace Marlo’s ageing Healeys Road timber bridge with a $642,780 steel structure, improving safety, access, load capacity and long-term reliability for local users.
• Bass Coast Shire Council asks residents to keep FOGO bins cardboard-free following updated recycling guidelines from April 2026
  Bass Coast Council asks residents to keep cardboard out of FOGO bins from April 2026, ensuring high-quality compost, reducing contamination, and supporting efficient recycling and local environmental sustainability.
• Bass Coast Shire Council seeks feedback on new waste charge proposal with various session dates in September and feedback closing on 21 October 2026
  Bass Coast Shire Council is consulting on a proposed waste charge for all rateable properties, aiming to fairly share costs and improve transparency around community waste services.
• Baw Baw Shire Council to consider cost of returning to weekly red-bin collections
  Baw Baw Council will investigate the costs and implications of restoring weekly red-bin collections after a 6,139-signature petition highlighted strong community concern over the FOGO changes.
• Baw Baw Shire expands environmental rebate to encourage reusable products, cut waste and boost community sustainability
  Baw Baw Shire Council has expanded its environmental rebate into three categories, helping residents buy reusable products, reduce landfill waste, improve recycling, and support more sustainable households through partial purchase rebates.
• Baw Baw Shire Council keeps fortnightly red bins, weekly FOGO collections despite petition calling for weekly rubbish service
  Baw Baw Council will retain fortnightly red-bin and weekly FOGO collections despite a 6,139-signature petition seeking weekly rubbish services, citing $173,000 annual costs and reduced landfill waste.
• Wellington Shire Council opposes mandatory fourth glass recycling bin, urging Victoria to allow council flexibility instead
  Wellington Shire Council has again urged the Victorian government to scrap mandatory household glass bins, citing costs, practicality and existing Container Deposit Scheme success while seeking greater flexibility for regional councils.
• Wellington Shire Council 2026 hard waste collection returns this spring for convenient household clean-up and recycling
  Wellington Shire Council’s annual hard waste collection returns from September 28 to October 30, offering residents convenient disposal of unwanted household items, including e-waste, while supporting recycling and reducing illegal dumping.
• Darren Chester welcomes progress on critical Krauatungalung Walk boardwalk link at Lakes Entrance
  Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester has welcomed progress on the Krauatungalung Walk’s next stage, with local firm DesignCo Builders awarded the contract to complete the critical boardwalk link at Lakes Entrance.
• Darren Chester welcomes progress on critical Krauatungalung Walk boardwalk link at Lakes Entrance
  Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester has welcomed progress on the Krauatungalung Walk’s next stage, with local firm DesignCo Builders awarded the contract to complete the critical boardwalk link at Lakes Entrance.
• Darren Chester calls for Aged Care Minister's resignation over home support delays
  Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester has called for Aged Care Minister Sam Rae's resignation, citing lengthy Support at Home delays, unanswered assistance requests and thousands of deaths while awaiting support.
• New Bairnsdale footpath to improve access between Princes Highway and key health and community facilities
  A new 280-metre concrete footpath will link Bairnsdale’s Princes Highway with key health and community facilities, improving safety and accessibility for pedestrians, with construction beginning September 21 and lasting six weeks.
• Bass Coast Shire Council traineeships open pathways to local careers and opportunities
  Bass Coast Council’s 2026 traineeship program supports seven trainees with practical experience, qualifications and career pathways. Applications for 2027 are expected early next year, with opportunities showcased at Phillip Island September expo.
• Baw Baw Shire Council launches the return of Gippy Girls Can in September with something for every woman
  Gippy Girls Can returns across Baw Baw in September, offering women and girls welcoming, beginner-friendly and affordable opportunities to try new activities, get active and connect.
• Latrobe Council urges Premier Carroll to fast-track investment, industry growth and secure future jobs in Valley
  Latrobe City Council has urged newly appointed Premier Ben Carroll to meet urgently on economic diversification, investment and job creation as the region faces energy transition, manufacturing job losses and Yallourn 2028 closure.
• Latrobe City Council will push six reforms addressing regional investment, housing, infrastructure, funding fairness and sustainability at MAV State Council
  Latrobe City Council will take six reform proposals to the MAV State Council, targeting fairer funding, housing, planning, investment, infrastructure and support for regional communities.
• Maffra student Jaxon Marshall champions resilient agriculture during National Youth Parliament visit to Canberra
  Maffra student Jaxon Marshall represented Gippsland at National Youth Parliament, delivering a passionate speech advocating resilient agriculture, regenerative farming, research and stronger support for farmers and Australia’s future.
• Bass Coast Shire Council urges vigilance as Phillip Island penguins face H5N1 bird flu threat
  Bass Coast is urging vigilance after H5N1 avian influenza was detected on Phillip Island, advising people to avoid sick or dead wildlife. Little penguins will be vaccinated as agencies coordinate efforts to protect wildlife and monitor the outbreak.
• Latrobe City Council urges Premier Ben Carroll to include the region among Victoria's three free dental clinic locations
  Latrobe City Council urges Premier Ben Carroll to select Latrobe City for a free regional dental clinic, improving affordable healthcare access and reducing cost-of-living pressures.
• Latrobe City Council records strongest planning performance, leads Victoria in statutory decision timeframes
  Latrobe City Council has achieved its strongest planning performance, with 95.44 percent of applications decided within statutory timeframes following streamlined delegation reforms introduced in May 2025.
• Latrobe City Council schedules 40 kilometres of road upgrades across municipality
  Latrobe City Council will resurface 40 kilometres of local roads during 2026/27, including resealing and asphalt works across six communities to improve safety, extend road life and prevent potholes.
• Bass Coast businesses celebrated at 2026 Business Awards, recognising excellence and community contribution
  The 2026 Bass Coast Business Awards celebrated local business excellence, with Phillip Island Tenpin Bowling & Entertainment Centre named Business of the Year after winning four awards.
• Six Latrobe Valley businesses receive funding to diversify, boost productivity and strengthen supply chains during economic transition
  Six Latrobe Valley businesses will receive funding through the Gippsland Supply Chain Resilience Program to improve productivity, purchase equipment, expand markets and strengthen supply chains amid regional economic transition.
• Surf Parade shared path moves forward as Bass Coast Shire Council investigates two-way road and carparking design in Inverloch
  Bass Coast Shire Council will soon begin construction of the Surf Parade Shared Path in Inverloch, with completion expected by Christmas, while investigating costs and community support for two-way road and carparking.
• Maryvale Recreation Reserve redevelopment delivers upgraded sporting facilities, accessibility and community infrastructure
  Maryvale Recreation Reserve has undergone a $1.39 million redevelopment, delivering accessible cricket facilities, upgraded amenities, improved drainage, resurfacing and safety improvements through state government and Latrobe City Council funding.
• Paynesville Council seeks $4M for intersection upgrades to unlock 1,400 new homes
  Paynesville's $4 million intersection upgrade proposal aims to improve road safety, ease congestion and unlock around 1,400 new homes in the town's growth area.
• Rob Moffatt officially joins Latrobe City Council as Morwell River Ward's newly elected councillor after by-election and oath of office
  Latrobe City Council has welcomed Rob Moffatt as Morwell River Ward's newly elected councillor. He formally commenced after taking his oath, joining the nine-member council for the remainder of its current term.
• Darren Chester says Labor's national firearms buyback unfairly targets law-abiding regional firearm owners instead of addressing crime and security
  Nationals representatives Gemma Rendell, Darren Chester and Bridget McKenzie joined East Gippsland firearm owners in Bairnsdale, opposing Labor's buyback and further restrictions while supporting lawful firearm use in regional communities.