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Omeo celebrates official opening of Stage 1 of Mountain Bike Trails, marking a major milestone for adventure tourism and community growth

Omeo celebrates the opening of Stage 1 of its Mountain Bike Trails, featuring 50 km of trails, state-of-the-art facilities, and plans for expansion, boosting tourism, community health, and economic growth.

By news@gippsland - 10th December 2024 - Back to News

Omeo has marked a key milestone with the official opening of Stage 1 of the Omeo Mountain Bike Trails. At a ceremony held at Livingstone Park last Friday, community members, mountain bike enthusiasts and dignitaries came together to celebrate the project, which is already establishing Omeo as a nationally significant mountain biking destination.

Omeo celebrated the opening of Stage 1 of its Mountain Bike Trails, featuring 50 km of trails and modern facilities at Livingstone Park

Omeo trails launch

Stage 1 of the project includes 50km of professionally designed trails catering to riders of all abilities, as well as state-of-the-art facilities at the Livingstone Park trailhead, including showers, changerooms, a bike wash, trail maps, skills park and a pump track, offering a functional and inviting space for riders to gather and prepare for an adventure.

Mayor Cr John White described the opening as a momentous occasion for Omeo and the wider region. "This project is about so much more than trails; it's about fostering a sense of community, promoting healthy lifestyles and boosting year-round tourism. Stage 1 is just the beginning of our vision to make Omeo a major mountain biking hub and provide economic growth and social benefits for the entire community," Cr White said.

Omeo trail celebration

The opening day included a barbecue hosted by the local CFA, stalls promoting mountain biking businesses, and a community ride led by council's trail crew and the trail construction crew, which attracted around 50 riders. "Thanks to the dedication of our funding partners, contractors and the local community, we've turned a bold vision into reality. This network of trails will attract riders from across Australia and beyond, positioning Omeo on the map for adventure tourism."

Omeo Primary School students also spoke about the exciting addition to their town as did trail project committee member Leigh Fulton, Deputy Mayor Cr Sonia Buckley, and Member for Gippsland Darren Chester, who spoke of a second 'gold rush' for Omeo and praised the collaboration of all levels of government in making the project happen.

Expanding trail network

Stage 2 of the project is already well underway, with plans to expand the trail network to over 100 kilometres. Progressive openings are anticipated in 2024 and 2025, further enhancing Omeo's reputation as a premier destination for mountain biking.

The project has been a collaborative effort involving TRC Tourism, Biosis, DEECA, Common Ground Trails, Whelcon, Parks Victoria, and the North East Catchment Management Authority, with the expertise of every contributor instrumental in delivering high-quality infrastructure. Council has also praised the emergency services and Omeo community for their vital contributions to this achievement.

Trailblazing Omeo's future

The project was also made possible through a collaborative effort involving funding from East Gippsland Shire Council, $3 million from the Australian government, and the Victorian government's Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund via Regional Development Victoria.

With the official ribbon cut and riders already exploring the trails, the opening of Stage 1 signals a bright future of adventure, community, and economic opportunity for Omeo and East Gippsland. Council is committed to ensuring that the trails are in top condition year-round, hiring three full-time and one casual trail maintenance staff dedicated to maintaining the trails to the highest level. For more information about the Omeo Mountain Bike Trails project, visit Ride Omeo Facebook page.

Pictures from East Gippsland Shire Council website.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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  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.
• Baw Baw Shire Council encourages community groups to apply for 2026‑2027 grants supporting projects and minor capital works
  Baw Baw Shire Council’s 2026‑2027 Community Grants Program supports not-for-profit groups with funding for projects up to $5,000 and minor capital works up to $10,000, promoting thriving, sustainable communities.
• Baw Baw Shire Council hosts November community briefing in Trafalgar to discuss key projects and engage residents in shaping the town’s future
  Baw Baw Shire Council will hold a community briefing in Trafalgar on 18 November, inviting residents to discuss key projects, provide feedback, and engage with Councillors and Council officers.
• Latrobe City Council develops community outreach program to boost CBD safety and reduce anti-social behaviour locally
  Latrobe City Council will develop a $30,000 community outreach program to support vulnerable individuals, reduce anti-social behaviour, and improve safety in CBDs and transport hubs across the municipality.
• Wellington Shire Council invites community to celebrate Defence’s legacy with Freedom of Entry march and Army community day in Sale this October
  Wellington Shire Council invites residents to attend Sale’s Freedom of Entry march on 18 October and Army community day on 19 October, celebrating Defence’s historic connection with the local community.
• East Gippsland invites community to honour everyday heroes for 2026 Volunteer Honour Roll to be celebrated from 18-24 May 2026
  East Gippsland Shire Council is calling for nominations to recognise local volunteers, with 2026 Honour Roll inductees celebrated during National Volunteer Week, showcasing their contributions and inspiring more people to volunteer.
• East Gippsland Water urges community to stop wipes and grease blocking sewers with Wipezilla campaign
  East Gippsland Water’s Wipezilla campaign urges the community to prevent sewer blockages by avoiding wet wipes, grease, and food scraps, promoting education, responsible habits, and environmental protection across the region.
• South Gippsland Shire Council seeks community feedback on 50-year Fish Creek Football Netball Club lease proposal by 25 February 2026
  South Gippsland Shire Council invites community submissions on a proposed 50-year lease to Fish Creek Football Netball Club for new clubrooms. Submissions close 5pm, Wednesday 25 February 2026, addressed to the CEO.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Latrobe City outdoor pools set to reopen for summer with weather-based opening days ahead
  Latrobe City’s outdoor pools reopen 29 November, operating on days forecast at 25 degrees celsius. Moe and Yallourn North offer family-friendly facilities, with Yallourn North free. Council highlights community enjoyment and water-safety benefits.
• 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.
• East Gippsland CMA hosts community event on Snowy River estuary trials and environmental flow improvements
  East Gippsland CMA, with NSW DCCEEW, monitored Snowy River estuary flows to improve health, maintain open entrance, and share findings at community event 11 March 2026, Marlo Angling Club.
• 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.
• 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.
• Melina Bath invites local community and sporting clubs to apply for Regional All Abilities Grants by 19 November 2025
  Melina Bath encourages regional clubs to apply for 2025 Regional All Abilities Participation Grants, supporting inclusive programs, specialised equipment, workforce, and disability-led initiatives. Applications close 19 November 2025.
• Martin Cameron says Latrobe Valley community safety declines as crime rises six percent, police resources reduced
  Martin Cameron warns Latrobe Valley community safety is worsening under Labor, citing rising crime, reduced police resources, retail theft spikes, weak bail laws, and calls for tougher prevention and policing measures.
• Baw Baw Shire Council seeks community feedback on draft 10-year open space strategy for future planning
  Baw Baw Shire Council invites feedback on its draft Open Space Strategy, shaping a 10-year plan to guide investment, protect natural spaces, and enhance community wellbeing. Consultation closes Friday 3 October 2025.
• Gippsland Water’s mobile trailer supports community events while promoting health, sustainability and reducing single-use plastic
  Gippsland Water’s mobile water trailer supports community events, providing free drinking water, promoting healthy choices, reducing single-use plastics, and enhancing public and environmental health across the region in 2026.
• Applications open for 2026 South Coast Community Leadership Program Supporting Local Skills Development until 13 February 2026
  Applications are open for the free 2026 South Coast Community Leadership Program, helping locals build skills, connect with peers, and positively impact Bass Coast and South Gippsland communities. Apply by February 13.
• Thurra River bridge and campground reopen for holidays, offering access to Croajingolong's forests, trails, and beaches
  Thurra River Bridge and campground reopen for holidays, restoring access to Croajingolong's forests, trails, and beaches after fire and flood damage, with resilient infrastructure upgrades ensuring long-term safety and community enjoyment.
• Tim Bull says locals and community groups want stronger enforcement as illegal campers leave areas unkempt
  Tim Bull urges Environment Minister Dimopoulos to act on illegal campers along the Snowy River, balancing public access for tourists with enforcement and welfare oversight to protect local businesses.
• West Gippsland CMA invites the community to join the Portrait of a River photo competition and send their entries by 30 April 2026
  West Gippsland CMA launches the annual Water for the Environment photo competition, inviting participants to capture rivers’ beauty, moods, and stories. Prizes worth $1,000 are available. Entries open April 1-30, 2026.
• Baw Baw Shire Council invites community to join Biodiversity Blitz and help shape first nature plan from 1-30 September 2025
  Baw Baw Shire Council invites residents to celebrate Biodiversity Month by joining the Biodiversity Blitz, recording local species, attending walk-and-talk events, and contributing ideas to shape the region's first Nature Plan.
• 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.
• Baw Baw Shire Council awarded $140,000 in community grants to support sustainable, healthy, and thriving community projects
  Council has awarded over $140,000 in Community Grants to 36 groups, supporting events, projects, and minor capital works that strengthen community sustainability, health, and wellbeing through not-for-profit initiatives.
• Baw Baw Shire Council invites community to join family-friendly Australia Day celebrations on 22 and 26 January 2026
  Residents are invited to free, family-friendly Australia Day celebrations across Baw Baw Shire, reflecting on history, recognising First Nations cultures, welcoming new citizens, thanking volunteers, and celebrating community spirit together.
• 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.
• Wellington Shire Council awards $130,997 to 27 community groups supporting events and volunteer initiatives across the Middle of Everywhere
  Wellington Shire Council has awarded $130,997 to 27 community groups supporting arts, events, sports, infrastructure, inclusion, and volunteer initiatives, strengthening participation and connection across the Middle of Everywhere region.
• 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.
• 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.
• Shop Local in South Gippsland to strengthen community, support jobs, and keeping our economy thriving together everyday
  Shopping locally in South Gippsland strengthens our economy, supports jobs, services, and community groups. Every dollar spent locally multiplies impact, with increased spending boosting growth by millions annually. Shop Local South Gippsland.
• Wellington Shire Council to update Community Local Law 2021, ensuring relevance, inclusivity, and strong legal compliance
  The Safer Communities Plan includes Jack's Law to clear weapons from streets, Restart for repeat offenders, and Youthstart to support at-risk youth. Mr Cameron says Labor lacks a plan to tackle Victoria's crime crisis, leaving regions vulnerable.
• Baw Baw Shire awards over $109,000 in community grants supporting 13 groups’ minor capital work projects
  Baw Baw Shire Council has awarded over $109,000 in Community Grants to 13 local groups, supporting minor capital works that improve facilities, sustainability, and community wellbeing across the shire.
• Gippsland Water hosts Baw Baw pop-ups, inviting community feedback on future water planning and services on 18 April, 6 and 16 May 2026
  Gippsland Water hosts Baw Baw pop-up events, inviting community feedback on future water services, planning, pricing, and infrastructure decisions.
• 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.
• Melina Bath urges East Gippsland cricket clubs, schools and community groups to apply for Australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund grants by 27 March 2026
  Melina Bath encourages regional cricket clubs, schools, and community groups to apply for Australian Cricket Infrastructure Fund grants supporting facility upgrades and inclusive participation opportunities. Applications close 27 March 2026.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• East Gippsland Australia Day Awards celebrate community spirit, honouring events and initiatives making meaningful impact in 2026
  The 2026 East Gippsland Australia Day Awards honoured the Winter Festival and Breast Care Support Fund for fostering connection, generosity, and community spirit across the region.
• 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.
• 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.
• Mallacoota marks bushfire recovery milestone with streetscape, pavilion and hall upgrades completed
  Mallacoota marks bushfire recovery milestone with Maurice Avenue, Mudbrick Pavilion, and Hall upgrades, supported by East Gippsland Shire Council and state and federal governments, strengthening community resilience and local infrastructure.
• 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.
• 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.
• East Gippsland Field Days celebrate agriculture, community spirit, innovation and local food security importance
  The East Gippsland Field Days celebrate local agriculture, innovation, and community spirit, highlighting food and fibre production’s vital role while showcasing volunteer efforts and regional resilience for a sustainable future.
• 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.
• 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.
• Latrobe City Council invites residents to participate in 2026 Community Satisfaction Survey by phone on 16 February and 27 March 2026
  Latrobe City Council’s annual Community Satisfaction Survey will contact 400 households by phone, gathering confidential feedback to improve services and council performance across the city.
• Latrobe 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.
• Gippsland Water launches Sounding Board, inviting community feedback with chance to win $1,000 gift card
  Gippsland Water invites the community to join its Sounding Board, share feedback, influence future planning, and enter a draw to win a $1,000 gift card.
• Baw Baw Shire Council hosts Seniors Festival 2025, featuring free events and activities celebrating connection, creativity and positive ageing
  Baw Baw Shire celebrates Victorian Seniors Festival October 2025 with free events, workshops, garden tours, and activities, encouraging seniors to connect, create, celebrate, and enjoy free public transport across Victoria.
• 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 highlights strong financial performance and community-focused progress in its 2024/2025 Annual Report presentation
  Latrobe City Council’s 2024/2025 Annual Report shows strong financial sustainability, strategic progress and disciplined planning, highlighting new health-focused development and continued delivery of essential services and infrastructure.
• Danny O'Brien pushes for stronger police support and community safety measure with regards to rising crime in Gippsland
  Danny O’Brien warns Gippsland crime has risen 18%, with over 30% unsolved. He urges stronger police resourcing, law enforcement, and government action to improve community safety across the region.
• South Gippsland Seniors Festival offers free and low-cost events to connect, create, and celebrate together
  South Gippsland celebrates Victorian Seniors Festival this October with 60+ free and low-cost events across nine towns, inviting over-60s to connect, create, celebrate, and enjoy community through sport, arts, learning, and fun.
• 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.
• South Gippsland Shire Council seeks nominations for Meeniyan Hub Community Asset Committee before 26 November deadline
  Council invites nominations for the Meeniyan Hub Community Asset Committee. Forms available online or at Council offices. Submissions close 26 November, with inductions scheduled for the first week of December.
• Latrobe City Council endorses Economic Development Strategy guiding growth, investment, workforce and industry diversification through 2031
  Latrobe City Council has endorsed an Economic Development Strategy to guide growth, investment, workforce development, and industry diversification, creating a vibrant, inclusive, and nationally significant industrial hub by 2031.
• Latrobe City Council opens applications for free 12-week industry growth program supporting business expansion until 16 January 2026
  Latrobe City Council’s Industry Growth Program offers 12 weeks of business education, coaching, and mentoring, helping 15 eligible business leaders develop growth strategies and expand their businesses, free of charge.
• East Gippsland children share ideas, hopes, and concerns to shape community and celebrate local voices through MFEG project
  Nearly 800 East Gippsland children shared ideas and concerns through the MFEG project, highlighting community connection, recreation, environment, and social care, with postcards now displayed across local towns.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Gippsland to join European Union Program showcasing regional innovation in clean energy, tourism, agriculture and sustainable development
  Gippsland has been selected for a European Union research program, showcasing its leadership in clean energy, tourism, and agriculture while promoting international collaboration, innovation, and investment through the IURC initiative.
• Yarragon’s $3.9M Dowton Park Pavilion progressing, boosting local sport, community facilities and infrastructure by March 2026
  Construction of Yarragon’s $3.9 million Dowton Park pavilion is progressing well, with steel framing, utilities, and key facilities underway, set for completion and community use by March 2026.
• 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.
• Gippsland Water seeks applications for Customer Reference Group to shape community engagement and decisions until 6 April 2026
  Gippsland Water is inviting customers aged 16+ to join its Customer Reference Group, providing strategic input, shaping community engagement, and influencing decisions. Applications close Monday, 6 April 2026.
• 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.
• South Gippsland Council partners with Volunteering Gippsland to support and deliver community training across Gippsland libraries and hubs
  Council, with Volunteering Gippsland and regional councils, offers free community training at Korumburra Library, covering volunteer management, strategic planning, and partnership building across Gippsland.
• Fish Creek Tea Cosy festival takes place in Fish Creek Memorial Hall and various locations across Fish Creek from 16-24 May 2026
  From 16-24 May, Fish Creek celebrates the Tea Cosy Festival that wraps the whole town in wool, serves it with jam and cream, and makes life just a little cosier.
• Bass Coast Shire Council urges MAV to demand transparency, accountability and community engagement in State planning decisions
  Bass Coast Shire Council will urge MAV to demand greater transparency, accountability, and community consultation in State Government planning decisions, highlighting concerns over the Development Facilitation Program and local impacts.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• GPAC’s Summer Nights series brings free outdoor movies and family fun to Gippsland community on 13, 14, 21 February and 20 March 2026
  GPAC’s Summer Nights brought families together with free outdoor movies, live entertainment, and food trucks, drawing strong community attendance and extending the series due to popular demand in Gippsland.
• Kay Street Car Park construction progressing smoothly, delivering major new parking capacity for Traralgon CBD by 2026
  Construction of Traralgon’s five-level Kay Street Car Park is progressing on schedule for mid-2026, delivering 430 new CBD spaces and supporting local businesses, accessibility, and future regional growth.
• Noojee chosen for Healthy Forest Plans Pilot with $4M funding to boost tourism and local economy
  Baw Baw Shire welcomes Noojee’s $4 million Healthy Forest Plans Pilot funding, part of a $30 million Victorian government initiative to boost regional tourism, support economic transition, and create local jobs.
• Commercial mooring approved on Brodribb River, Marlo, enabling unique marine tourism experiences in East Gippsland
  A commercial mooring licence on Marlo’s Brodribb River will support a 12-metre sailing catamaran, offering guided tours and boosting East Gippsland’s marine tourism and local economy.
• Wellington Shire Council elects Cr Cindy Madeley as Mayor and Cr Liz Foat as Deputy Mayor marking up historic female leadership
  Cr Cindy Madeley and Cr Liz Foat were elected Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Wellington Shire, marking historic female leadership and a focus on community, innovation, inclusion, and strategic development.
• East Gippsland Council launches Buy Local campaign to support businesses, jobs, and community vibrancy this festive season and summer
  East Gippsland Shire Council has launched the Buy Local campaign, encouraging residents to support local businesses, strengthen jobs, and keep the community vibrant throughout the festive season and beyond.
• East Gippsland Council opens impact grants applications to support local community and environmental projects
  East Gippsland Council’s Impact Grants program offers $3,001 - $20,000 to community groups for projects strengthening communities or supporting environmental sustainability, with applications closing 31 October 2025.
• Ensay Recreation Reserve redevelopment completed, $2.2M upgrades to strengthen community, sport and tourism
  Federal Member Darren Chester congratulated Ensay volunteers on completing the $2.2 million Recreation Reserve redevelopment, enhancing sport, community facilities, and tourism as part of Black Summer bushfire recovery.
• Allan Labor government reverses Newhaven Jetty closure following persistent community and Nationals’ advocacy victory
  The Allan government has reversed Newhaven Jetty’s permanent closure after 18 months of Nationals’ advocacy and tireless community campaigning, securing a safe, accessible jetty for locals and visitors
• Commercial mooring approved on Brodribb River, enabling new sailing tourism experience in Marlo
  A commercial mooring licence on Marlo’s Brodribb River enables a 12-metre catamaran to offer guided tours, boosting marine tourism, visitor experiences, and economic growth in East Gippsland.
• Orbost Outdoor Pool adopts clearer, family-friendly 2025 schedule following strong community feedback
  Orbost Outdoor Pool will introduce a clearer, community-informed schedule for the 2025 season, offering predictable peak-season hours and flexible warm-weather openings to better support families, school-aged swimmers and local pool users.
• 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.
• East Gippsland hosts first Creative Summit, celebrating local artists, culture, community and future creativity on 28 March 2026
  East Gippsland’s first Creative Summit on 28 March brings artists, performers, and creatives together to celebrate talent, connect communities, showcase projects, and shape the region’s cultural future through IMMERSIVE programs.
• 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.
• Buchan Recreation Reserve redevelopment delivers modern pavilion, change rooms and multi-purpose community hub for future generations
  Buchan Recreation Reserve redevelopment delivers modern community pavilion and sports facilities, ensuring a safe, multi-purpose hub for generations, supported by local, state and federal government investment.
• Latrobe Regional Gallery Mainstreet Cafe fosters skill development, employment, and community engagement for all abilities
  Latrobe Regional Gallery welcomes Mainstreet Cafe, an all-abilities social enterprise providing inclusive hospitality training, employment opportunities, and community engagement, fostering skills development and pathways for people of all abilities.
• Darren Chester commends Metung Holiday Villas owners for strengthening Gippsland's tourism and visitor economy
  Darren Chester has commended Metung Holiday Villas owners Darren and Kristy Penington for their dedication to Gippsland's tourism industry, highlighting their role in supporting local jobs and promoting the region's attractions.
• 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.
• 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.
• Darren Chester urges Gippsland not-for-profits to send EOIs and apply for 2025-26 Volunteer Grants supporting local community volunteers
  Federal Member Darren Chester urges Gippsland not-for-profits to submit EOIs for 2025-26 Volunteer Grants, offering $1,000-$5,000 to support volunteers, strengthen community connections, and remove barriers to participation.
• East Gippsland Shire Council adopts Homes for Everyone paper, addressing housing affordability with community-focused solutions and partnerships
  East Gippsland Council adopted the Homes for Everyone paper, outlining a clear, honest approach to housing affordability, partnering with government, agencies, and community to deliver practical, evidence-based solutions.
• 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.
• 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.
• Latrobe City Council finalises 2026/27 advocacy priorities for strategic economic, infrastructure and community development initiatives
  Latrobe City Council has endorsed its 2026/27 Advocacy Agenda, prioritising economic development, infrastructure, and community safety initiatives, guided by a tiered framework and strengthened by councillor and community feedback.
• Proposed library and learning centre changes aim to reduce costs while meeting community needs in Baw Baw Shire
  Baw Baw Shire Council proposes adjustments to the Library and Learning Centre, removing basement and timber structure to stay within budget while delivering community, cultural, and co‑working spaces.
• 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.
• Cycling Without Age Gippsland delights Wilson Lodge residents and 98-year-old Joyce, boosting wellbeing and community connection for older people
  Cycling Without Age Gippsland celebrated its oldest passenger, 98-year-old Joyce Grimer, and welcomed Wilson Lodge residents, providing free trishaw rides that promote wellbeing, social connection, and community engagement for older Australians.
• Draft Lion’s Park Master Plan prioritises inclusivity, safety and recreation for young women and girls, shaping Sale’s key community open space
  The Draft Lion’s Park Master Plan focuses on inclusive, safe spaces, especially for young women and girls, guiding staged improvements and inviting community feedback to shape Sale’s key open space.
• 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.