Latest News
• Add My News • Search Old News
Neighbourhood Watch Latrobe Crimewatch News, Latrobe Police Service Area October 2013Coming Events, Award for Police CO-Ordinator, Barry Sheen Tribute Ride, Hot Spot, Crime Prevention Tips,Safer Communities Group Reports. By Malcolm Lawrence - 17th October 2013 - Back to News Latrobe Crime Watch News
Latrobe Police Service Area
Neighbourhood Watch Creating Safer Communities
October 2013
IMPORTANT NUMBERS
Emergency 000, Mobiles 112, State the service you want – Police, Ambulance or Fire.
Police: Boolarra 5169 6222, Churchill 5122 1790, Moe 5127 2222, Morwell 5131 5000 Traralgon 5174 0900
Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000
Neighbourhood Watch & Safer Communities
Unit – Latrobe PSA, L/S/C Brett Godden, 5131 5085, 0400 050 749.
brett.godden@police.vic.gov.au
Facebook: Senior Constable Brett
Child Protection 13 12 78, Consumer Affairs 5116 5701, Dept Primary Industry 136186.
Dispute Settlement Centre 1800 658 528, Latrobe City 1300 367 700.
Nurse on Call 1300 606 024, Poisons Information 13 11 26,
VicRoads 131170
COMING EVENTS: OPEN INVITATION TO ALL LATROBE VALLEY RESIDENTS
Thursday 17th October – Barry Sheen Tribute Ride passes through the Latrobe Valley at approx. 11 am
Saturday 19th October – Emergency Services Fun Day – MERA Park Morwell – free entry – 11am-2pm
Sunday 27th October – Hazelwood Car Show with NHW display – Gaskin Park, Churchill
Monday 28th October - Free Community Safety Forum – Alcohol – Tackling the Issues of the Night - Premier Function Centre, Grey St, Traralgon - 2.00pm – 4.30pm (Doors open from 1.30pm)
Monday 28th October - Free Community Safety Forum – Breaking the Ice – Understanding the Impacts of ICE - Premier Function Centre, Grey St, Traralgon - 6.00pm (Doors open from 5.30pm)
Monday 4th November - Moe/Newborough Town Meeting - Moe RSL – Albert Street, Moe – 7pm
Tuesday 5th November - Traralgon Town Meeting - Traralgon Police Station, Kay St, Traralgon – 7pm
Wednesday 6th November - Morwell Town Meeting – Morwell RSL – Elgin Street, Morwell – 7pm
Tues 19th Nov - Churchill District and Community Assoc Meeting - Churchill Community Hall – 5.30 pm
Wednes 11th December - Yallourn North Town Meeting - Monash Hall Reserve St, Yallourn North –7 pm
STATE AWARD FOR OUR POLICE CO-ORDINATOR
Leading Senior Constable Brett Godden, was named as a recipient of the highest NHW award available, the State Awards of Honour.
On Thursday 10th October 2013, the Honours' Committee of Neighbourhood Watch Victoria presented its 2013 Award winners at the State Neighbourhood Watch Victoria Annual General Meeting held at the Caulfield RSL in Elsternwick.
Each year the NHW Victoria Board of Management calls for members to nominate colleagues worthy of recognition for their outstanding contributions to the NHW program. Nominees can be either civilians or police members.
Eastern Region Division Five Neighbourhood Watch is proud to report our Police Community Liaison Officer and Neighbourhood Watch Coordinator, Leading Senior Constable Brett Godden, was named as a recipient of the highest NHW award available, the State Awards of Honour.
On what turned out to be one of the busiest days in Victoria Police History with 70 raids conducted on Hells Angels Motor Cycle Club clubhouses across the state, NHW Victoria was pleased and honoured Chief Commissioner of Police, Ken Lay, was able to fulfil his commitment to attend the awards ceremony and present the State Awards of Honour and the State Appreciation Award to the recipients, including LSC Godden.
When he presented the award, Mr Lay, who hails from Korumburra, commented to Brett with a smile, "We’re not doing too bad for boys from Gippsland."
Brett was nominated for his honour by a number of Neighbourhood Watchers for amongst other things, the instigation of our division’s electronic Crime Watch Newsletters (Latrobe, Bass Coast, Baw Baw and South Gippsland) and most recently for the administration of the Eyewatch Latrobe Police Service Area Facebook Page.
The State Award of Honour is awarded "for service of an outstanding and exemplary nature to the Neighbourhood Watch Program."
The award acknowledges the outstanding service by an actively involved individual in the pursuit of the aims and objectives of the Neighbourhood Watch Program.
To be selected as the award winner, it must be demonstrated the recipient contributed to minimise the incidence of preventable crime; deter criminal activity by increasing the probability of apprehension; reduce the fear of crime; increase the reporting of crime and suspicious behaviour; improve the degree of personal and household security through education; and expand the program's involvement in wider community safety and crime prevention initiatives.
Mr Lay also presented State Awards of Honour to Tony Aldridge from Manningham, Margaret Handte - Maroondah, Bruce Ripper - Monash, Noel Simpson from Greater Geelong, Allison Summers from Whitehorse, and the Neighbourhood Watch Casey Committee.
The State Appreciation Award went to Bruce Worcester from Melbourne for the work he does with Mildura NHW.
The Minister for Crime Prevention, Edward O’Donohue, presented the State Communication Award to joint winners Whitehorse NHW for its Newsletter and to Casey NHW for the Casey Report and Facebook. Casey NHW also won the David Lentin Award for services to NHW for its Casey Fun Day, which attracted more than 6,000 to the Cranbourne Racecourse.
BARRY SHEENE TRIBUTE RIDE PASSING THROUGH THE LATROBE VALLEY THIS THURSDAY - LOOK LEFT, LOOK RIGHT, LOOK BIKE
Motor Cycle enthusiasts will be well aware that this weekend is the Australian Motor Cycle Grand Prix. This is one of the biggest operations for police in our Eastern Region Division 5 and affects three of our Local Government Area's Latrobe, South Gippsland and of course Bass Coast. The actual event, held on Phillip Island, runs from Friday 18 to Sunday 20 October.
For us in Latrobe, it is the Barry Sheene Tribute Ride that will affect us the most. Latrobe Valley residents should be aware of the vast increase of motor cyclists on our roads this week heading for the Grand Prix and next week on the return ride.
All Latrobe Valley Police will be mobilised this Thursday 17th October and intersections, including those at traffic lights, will be under the control of police members on foot. Traffic lights will be placed on flashing so remember a police officer's hand signals must be obeyed.
With our road fatalities in Latrobe already sitting at seven and our serious injuries at 52 for the year, motorists, including riders, must exercise extreme care this week and remember to LOOK LEFT, LOOK RIGHT, LOOK BIKE.
Also remember to pay attention to the increased number of pedestrians on our roads who take up position to view the riders as they pass through.
Each year for the past 13 years 1,000 motor cyclist (the maximum allowed) join the ride at Bairnsdale from where it departs for Phillip Island. This year the ride departs on Thursday the 17th October at 9.30 a.m. The riders then travel along the Princes Highway and cross into the City of Latrobe at around 11 a.m.
Once in Latrobe the riders head to Kernot Lake in Morwell where they have a lunchtime stopover from 11.30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.
The ride then continues and riders proceed along Princes Drive to the McDonald Street Bridge where they turn left and head through the Morwell Central Business District, down Commercial Road to the Strezelecki Highway.
The ride follows the Strezelecki Highway through the South Gippsland towns of Mirboo North and Leongatha until it joins the Bass Highway and continues through Inverloch and Wonthaggi to San Remo.
In San Remo the ride regroups and concludes with a lap around the Phillip Island Grand Prix circuit at about 3.50 p.m.
SEPTEMBER NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH/SAFER COMMUNITIES GROUP REPORTS
BOOLARRA/YINNAR DISTRICT CRIME REPORT
ASSAULTS - 1 for September (Nil August) - Two offenders charged with unlawful assault during September.
ARSON - Nil for September (Nil August)
PROPERTY DAMAGE - Nil for September (1 August)
BURGLARY - 1 for September (1 August) - Overnight 11th September unknown offenders broke into the Boolarra Primary School stealing cash and cash tins. The tins were later recovered empty.
THEFT FROM MOTOR VEHICLE - Nil for September (August)
THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE - 1 for September (Nil August) - XXM960 1994 a blue Holden sedan was stolen on 27/09/13 from Wicks St, Yinnar and remains outstanding.
CHURCHILL and DISTRICT MEETING and CRIME REPORT (INCLUDES JEERALANG)
ASSAULTS - 3 for September (4 August) - Three offenders charged with assault related offences with one facing two counts of making threats to kill.
ARSON - Nil for September (Nil August)
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 5 for September (6 August) - Two offenders charged whilst police are following up an identified suspect in relation to an incident in Dunbar Gr. Between 6th and 9th September unknown offenders sprayed offensive graffiti tags on walls of a primary school in Williams Ave.
BURGLARY - 3 for September (4 August) - Overnight 1st September unknown offenders entered a factory in Webster St but evidence suggests nothing was stolen whilst on 13th September the door to a church in Maple Cres was forced but again it appears nothing was stolen. Various household items were stolen from a residence in Cutler Cres on 23rd September.
THEFT FROM MOTOR VEHICLE - 7 for September (8 August) - There were three attempted thefts from motor vehicle during September. Various items were stolen from vehicles throughout the residential part of town including keys, wallets, handbags, clothes, an iPod and an iPad.
THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE - 1 for September (1 August) - One offender charged.
THEFT - 1 for September (3 August) - A phone which was left behind at the checkout of a supermarket was taken by unknown person on 3rd September. Police remind the community of the offence of theft by finding which is complete when a person does not make reasonable efforts to return property to its owner.
MOE POLICE SERVICE AREA MEETING and CRIME REPORT
ROBBERY - 1 for September (Nil August) - One offender has been charged with armed robbery during September.
ASSAULT - 15 for September (12 August) - Twelve offenders charged with assault related offences whilst police are following up three identified suspects in relation to three other incidents.
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 22 for September (17 August) - Eight offenders charged. A number of the damages relate to windows of residences, business or community halls with no apparent attempt to enter the buildings made. Overnight 4th September a number of tags were graffitied on toilets at Lake Narracan.
BURGLARY - 7 for September (7 August) - One offender charged. Apart from a burglary on a butchers in Moore St overnight 19th September where coins were stolen, all other burglaries were on residential premises. Three laptops were stolen between 13th and 17th September from residences in Newark Ave and Boormans St.
THEFT FROM MOTOR CAR - 4 for September (12 August) - Four hubcaps were stolen from a Mazda parked in a car park in Waterloo Rd on 6th September whilst a number of items were stolen from a ute parked at Lake Narracan on 29th September.
THEFT (OTHER) - 10 for September (17 August) - One offender charged whilst police are following up two identified suspects in relation to two other incidents. A concrete gargoyle statue was stolen from the front yard of a residence in May St overnight 2nd September.
ISSUES RAISED AT THE JOINT EYEWATCH VIRTUAL/PHYSICAL SEPTEMBER MEETING NHW MEETING: Nil issues raised. Discussions on police foot patrols in Moe CBD, Latrobe's road toll of 7 to date, upcoming ICE and alcohol forums and hoon driving.
MORWELL POLICE SERVICE AREA MEETING and CRIME REPORT(INCLUDES TYERS)
ROBBERY - Nil for September (2 August)
ASSAULT - 28 for September (22 August) - In all except four incidents an offender has been charged. Police are following up identified suspects in relation to an incident in Princes Dr on 30th September and in Commercial Rd on 14th September.
ARSON - 1 for September (Nil August) - Police are investigating an intentionally lit fire at a residence in The Avenue on 27th Sept.
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 29 for September (25 August) - Thirteen offenders charged whilst police are following up identified suspects in relation to two other incidents.
BURGLARY - 17 for September (5 August) - Two offenders charged whilst police are following up an identified suspect in relation to another burglary. A residence in Heritage Blvd was broken into twice with a large amount of property stolen.
THEFT FROM MOTOR CAR - 3 for September (11 August) - Coins and fuel were stolen from a vehicle in a residential driveway in The Avenue overnight 7th September whilst two registration plates were stolen from a vehicle in a business car park in Church St overnight 10th September. Unknown offenders stole a CD player from a vehicle in the rear yard of a residence in Franklin St.
THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE - 4 for September (Nil August) - Two of the vehicles stolen during September have been recovered. - Still outstanding are: ORE207 – a 1997 Nissan Sedan Green stolen 05/09/13 from Mary St, Morwell and OYQ770 – a 1998 Holden Sedan white stolen 04/09/13 from Butters St, Morwell.
THEFT - 9 for September (11 August) - Police are following up an identified suspect in relation to a theft on 23rd September in Hyland St. A bobcat was stolen overnight from a construction business in Surdex Dr. Evidence suggests a vehicle and trailer would be needed to transport the bobcat from the scene.
ISSUES RAISED AT THE JOINT EYEWATCH VIRTUAL/PHYSICAL SEPTEMBER NHW MEETING: Security at the new Morwell skate park – being monitored by both police and Latrobe City; Speed limit stickers for wheelie bins – taken to Divisional Area Meeting and letter to be written to Latrobe City to garner support; Unsightly houses – please report to Latrobe City. Burnouts at Firmin Lane Roundabout – passed to Latrobe Highway Patrol; 24 hour police station for Churchill – Churchill covered by Morwell after hours. Discussions on Emergency Fun Day at MERA Park 19 October; Hazelwood Car Show at Gaskin Park Churchill 27 October;
TRARALGON POLICE SERVICE AREA MEETING and CRIME REPORT
(INCLUDES GLENGARRY, TOONGABBIE, HAZELWOOD NORTH, TRARALGON SOUTH)
ROBBERY - 2 for September (1 August) - Two offenders charged with robbery whilst police are investigating a robbery which occurred in Victory Park on 14th September.
ASSAULT - 29 for September (23 August) - In all incidents an offender or offenders have been charged with assault related offences with some facing multiple charges.
ARSON - 2 for September (1 August) - Two offenders charged with criminal damage by fire whilst police are investigating a small grass fire in Craigburn Pl on 24th September.
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 32 for September (39 August) - Fourteen offenders charged. Two young males were seen in the grounds of Flinders College around the time two glass doors were damaged on 23rd September. Overnight 10th September two vehicles in the Clift Crt/Osborne St area were damaged.
BURGLARY - 12 for September (13 August) - Burglaries during September were evenly spread between business premises and residential premises. Windows and rear doors were the main points of entry with cash the main item stolen. A large amount of copper was stolen from a factory in Janette St around 15th September.
THEFT FROM MOTOR VEHICLE - 20 for September (23 August) - Three offenders charged. Thirteen of the thefts occurred in the residential area with seven of the vehicles being unlocked at the time. Cash/coins (4), wallets (3) and GPS Units (3) were amongst the items stolen.
THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE - Nil for September (Nil August)
THEFT - 13 for September (15 August) - Three offenders charged. Garden tools were stolen from the rear of a residence in Hyde Park Rd overnight 9th September whilst a three piece outdoor setting was stolen from a residence in Ellavale Dr on 17th September.
ISSUES RAISED AT THE JOINT EYEWATCH VIRTUAL/PHYSICAL SEPTEMBER NHW MEETING: Noisy neighbours who do not comply – Police have powers to seize under the EPA so discuss with local police; Lack of counter service at Traralgon Police Station – Reported to the duty sergeant; Security at CBD taxi rank – to be raised at the next CBD Safety Committee Meeting; Discussions on CCTV cameras in the CBD; VicRoads no longer issuing registration labels; NHW area for Glengarry – Brett has been invited to the next Glengarry Community Meeting and may incorporate at NHW report into future meetings. If so, we will start providing separate Glengarry Crime Report as we do for all other active NHW areas.
YALLOURN NORTH MEETING and CRIME REPORT
The next Yallourn North Neighbourhood Watch Town Meeting will be on Wednesday 11th December at the Monash Hall Reserve St, Yallourn North, commencing at 7pm. All members of the public are invited. Please note the new venue.
ASSAULT - 1 for September (Nil August) - One offender was charged with recklessly cause injury during September.
PROPERTY DAMAGE - Nil for September (1 August)
THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE - Nil for September (2 August)
CRIME PREVENTION TIPS – LOCK IT, REMOVE IT OR LOSE IT.
Leaving cars unlocked in car parks, on the nature strip, in the street and even in your own driveway makes the vehicle more vulnerable to theft. Sadly, this now rings true even in our small towns and rural areas.
The majority of the vehicles entered are left unlocked making it extremely easy for offenders to remove items such as GPS units, handbags, purses and wallets containing credit cards and cash, mobile phones, laptops and iPods and iPad tablets.
The community can take responsibility by following these simple rules for the security of cars.
- Always lock your car before leaving it, even when you are parked in your own driveway or a car park.
- Do not leave loose change in the centre console of your car. It adds up very quickly.
- Never leave valuables where they can be seen. Items such as CDs, wallets, mobile phones, iPods, laptops or personal identification sitting out in the open in a car are a temptation to thieves.
- If you need to leave these items in your car place them somewhere they cannot be seen.
- Surreptitiously hide your property before you get out of the car because thieves may be monitoring the car park and be watching you.
POLICE LIFE
Police Life is Victoria Police's official magazine.
In each edition you will find articles about police across the state, true crime stories, tales of good arrests as well as police station profiles and the latest policing initiatives.
It is published quarterly and distributed across the state and interstate to serving and former Victoria Police members, other law enforcement agencies, schools, parliamentarians, libraries, legal firms, the media, community members with an interest in policing or those looking to pursue a career in policing.
Read the Spring 2013 issue of Police Life online at http://issuu.com/policelife or visit your local police station to pick up a copy.
FOR POLICE ASSISTANCE OR TO REPORT A CRIME
Police remind the community if they see something suspicious they should ring 000 or if they have information in relation to an offence contact Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppers.com.au.
CRIME PREVENTION TIPS – HOLIDAY HOME SECURITY
An empty home is a prime target for intruders because they have less chance of being disturbed and the offence can go undetected for days or even weeks. Intruders always look for signs that a home is unoccupied. The longer the home is unoccupied, the more vulnerable it becomes. If you rent your home out remember to:
- Check all doors and windows are securely locked after every tenancy is completed;
- Install electrical timers that automatically switch on lights and tune the radio to a talk-back
- program during the day so your house looks and sounds "normal" and install external sensor lights;
- Disconnect the electrical pad on radio controlled or electronic garage doors and use a strong auxiliary key lock instead;
- Do not leave keys concealed outside the house. Arrange for them to be picked up away from the home.
- If you must advertise the availability of your home for rent on social media, limit the photos you publish so as not to show valuable items such as flat screen televisions.
- Remember, if you advertise on social media, including the internet and Facebook, you are advertising the date when your home will be empty. This is a treasure trove of information for burglars. Remember, they search the net too!
LIKE US ON FACE BOOK
EYEWATCH - LATROBE POLICE SERVICE AREA
Creating Safer Communities
You can 'Like' the Latrobe Police Service Area Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/eyewatchlatrobepsa
Eyewatch is aiming for 5000 likes. Thank You For Your Support
HOT SPOT – POLICE NEEDS THE PUBLIC'S HELP
POLICE CONTINUE TO SEARCH FOR PAROLE BREAKER, WHEREABOUTS REQUIRED FOR WAYNE LESLIE NORRIS
Detectives from the Fugitive Taskforce continue to appeal for the public's assistance to locate parole breaker Wayne Leslie Norris, who it is believed may be in the Latrobe Valley or Baw Baw areas.
Norris was convicted at the Melbourne Supreme Court in 2006 for manslaughter, aggravated burglary and theft of motor vehicle following the death of Lee Bridge in Warragul in 2005.
Norris breached his parole on 22 August by not complying with his release conditions and a warrant for his arrest was issued.
Norris is described as being 30 years of age, medium build, 175cm tall with brown hair and hazel eyes.
Members of the public are urged not to approach him but to report any sightings of him immediately on 000.
Police urge anyone who may have information related to Norris’s whereabouts to contact Crime Stoppers on: 1800 333 000 or visit: https://vic.crimestoppers.com.au/help-solve-crime/report-crime-information-here
HOT SPOT- POLICE NEEDS THE PUBLIC'S HELP
30 THEFTS FROM CARS SO FAR IN TRARALGON
Police continue to be frustrated as they investigate the never-ending stream of avoidable thefts from motor vehicles. They are at a loss as to how to get the message through to people they need to lock their cars to deter the opportunistic thief.
Since the 1st of October there have been 30 incidents of thefts from cars reported in Traralgon. Nearly all incidents are occurring overnight, in residential areas with vehicles unlocked or no signs of forced entry. Most of the items stolen were wallets, purses, cash and GPS units.
Latrobe Police are appealing for the public's assistance in three ways. Firstly, ensure you lock your car at all times including when it is parked in your own driveway.
For crime prevention tips to prevent becoming a victim of theft from motor vehicle incident visit the Victoria Police web site at http://www.police.vic.gov.au/content.asp?Document_ID=9562
Secondly, if you see any suspicious behaviour around cars, no matter how minor, report it immediately on 000.
Thirdly, police urge any other person who may have information related to these incidents to contact Crime Stoppers on: 1800 333 000 or visit: www.crimestoppers.com.au or ring Latrobe Criminal Investigation Unit on 5131 7028.
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: malcolml@dcsi.net.au
Related Articles- Latrobe City Business Festival returns with free October events connecting businesses, employers, job seekers and industry partners
Latrobe City’s 2026 Business Festival runs October 14–23, offering free jobs expos, workshops, networking, professional development and business events connecting employers, workers, students and industry. - Latrobe City Councillors recognised for years of dedicated service and commitment to local communities and regional leadership
Latrobe City Mayor Sharon Gibson received the Mayor Emeritus Award, while councillors Dale Harriman and Darren Howe marked 15 and 10 years of service. Council also secured adoption of five regional policy motions. - Latrobe City Children’s Expo offers free family fun, activities and community services at Kernot Hall in Morwell on 27 October 2026
Latrobe City Council will host a free Children’s Expo at Kernot Hall, Morwell, on October 27, featuring entertainment, activities, food vendors and community services for families. - Latrobe Mayor slams government's community safety funding decision, demands urgent support despite region's higher crime and social harm rates
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. - Latrobe City Positive Ageing Festival returns with more than 100 events celebrating connection, activity and older residents this October
Latrobe City’s Positive Ageing Festival returns in October with more than 100 free and low-cost events supporting older residents through connection, activity, learning and community participation. - Latrobe City opens nominations for 2027 Australia Day Awards and Sporting Hall of Fame honours, nominate by 11 September 2026
Latrobe City Council has opened nominations for the 2027 Australia Day Awards and Sporting Hall of Fame, recognising outstanding community contributors and sporting achievers. Entries close September 11, 2026. - Latrobe City Libraries offer free live music celebrating local Gippsland talent from October to December 2026
Latrobe City Libraries will host free, family-friendly live music from local Gippsland musicians across Morwell, Traralgon and Moe from October to December 2026. No bookings are required; everyone is welcome to attend. - Latrobe City Council welcomes enforcement action targeting illegal tobacco and vape trading to improve community safety and support local businesses
Latrobe City Council has welcomed enforcement action by Tobacco Licensing Victoria and Victoria Police’s Viper Taskforce against illegal tobacco and vape trading, supporting community safety, lawful businesses and safer town centres. - Latrobe City encourages community conversations and support during Gambling Harm Awareness Week 2026
Latrobe City Council will host free events from 24 to 31 October for Gambling Harm Awareness Week 2026, helping residents recognise gambling harm, explore support services and start conversations with family, friends and neighbours. - Latrobe City ratepayers to receive 2026/27 notices as council outlines $90.4M works program
Latrobe City ratepayers will receive 2026/27 rates notices from late August, helping fund $90.4 million in capital works, essential services and community assets across the municipality. - 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. - Latrobe City pushes for fair community benefits, transparent water pricing and long-term investment as Yallourn Mine rehabilitation progresses
Latrobe City Council has urged fair community reinvestment, transparent water pricing and long-term funding certainty as EnergyAustralia seeks water entitlement for Yallourn Mine rehabilitation. - Latrobe Housing Summit explores collaborative solutions to meet growing regional housing demand and support future economic development
Latrobe City Council’s Housing Summit brought together government, industry and community leaders to address rising housing demand, improve affordability and develop solutions supporting regional growth, investment and population increases. - Latrobe City Council seeks community input on priorities and spending ahead of 2027/28 Budget Development and financial planning process
Latrobe City Council is seeking community feedback to help shape its 2027/28 Budget, with residents encouraged to share priorities, ideas and concerns through Have Your Say by November 1. - Latrobe City Council invites community feedback on Moe Town Centre future through draft plan exhibition and consultation sessions
Latrobe City Council is seeking community feedback on Moe’s draft town centre plan, guiding future development, transport, public spaces and economic growth. Submissions close 24 November 2026, with community information sessions scheduled. - Latrobe City Council seeks community feedback on draft 10-year Nature Plan to protect local biodiversity until 31 August 2026
Latrobe City Council is seeking community feedback on its draft 10-year Nature Plan, outlining priorities to protect biodiversity, restore landscapes and engage residents. Public submissions close on 31 August 2026. - Latrobe Regional Gallery launches spring season with five exhibitions and live mural creation on 19 September 2026 In Morwell
Latrobe Regional Gallery will launch its Spring Season on Saturday, September 19, featuring five exhibitions and a live monumental mural by Japanese-Australian artist Twoone/Hiroyasu Tsuri during the Morwell event. - Latrobe City completes major lighting upgrade across all 10 courts at Agnes Brereton Reserve, boosting netball opportunities
Latrobe City Council has upgraded all 10 courts at Agnes Brereton Reserve with 200-lux lighting, enabling extended evening use, expanded competitions and training for Traralgon Netball Association 1,400 annual participants. - Latrobe City Council seeks experienced artists to create vibrant community-inspired mural at Churchill Monash way underpass
Latrobe City Council invites experienced mural artists to transform Churchill’s Monash Way underpass with community-inspired artwork. Expressions of Interest close 6 November 2026, with completion planned for early 2027. - Latrobe City recognised among Australia's most affordable regional centres for businesses, investors and skilled workers
Latrobe City welcomes research ranking Traralgon-Morwell third nationally for affordability, highlighting lower costs, skilled workers, infrastructure and investment opportunities across emerging industries. - 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. - 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 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. - 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. - Latrobe Leisure Morwell earns Gold Safety Accreditation for highest aquatic safety standards recognition achieved
Latrobe Leisure Morwell earned Life Saving Victoria’s Gold Safety Accreditation after achieving 100 percent compliance and a safety score above 95 percent, recognising exceptional aquatic safety, operations and risk management standards. - 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 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 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 endorses updated community amenity local law following extensive community consultation
Latrobe City Council has endorsed an updated Community Amenity Local Law, strengthening rules around property upkeep, waste, animals, burning, vehicles, public spaces and permits. - Latrobe City endorses draft Moe Activity Centre Plan to guide future town centre growth and development
Latrobe City Council endorsed the draft Moe Activity Centre Plan for public exhibition, outlining long-term CBD growth, planning reforms, improved public spaces and transport, with Planning Scheme Amendment C155 exhibition proposed for late 2026. - Latrobe City launches Forestree platform showcasing 63,000 public trees across urban and rural townships
Latrobe City Council has launched Forestree, an interactive platform showcasing more than 63,000 public trees, 600 species and ongoing tree planting, watering and maintenance efforts. - 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. - 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. - Open House Latrobe Festival offers behind-the-scenes access to region's unique buildings, stories, communities and cultural heritage from 9 - 11 October
Open House Latrobe will run from 9-11 October, offering behind-the-scenes access to more than 30 sites while celebrating the region's history, culture, industries, environment and future. - Open house Latrobe opens doors to historic, cultural and industrial sites across the region for visitors to explore and discover from 9 - 11 October 2026
A chance to visit the most intriguing buildings and places in Latrobe City, normally behind closed doors. The festival will open up significant buildings, infrastructure and landscapes. - Latrobe Valley commuters will receive longer trains and more seats under a Nationals-Liberals plan to increase regional rail capacity and reduce crowding
The Nationals and Liberals plan to allocate five additional V’Locity sets to Traralgon and Bairnsdale, delivering 1,100 extra seats and reducing regional rail crowding. - 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. - Darren Chester met Latrobe Health Assembly representatives to discuss tackling youth food insecurity, poor nutrition and regional health priorities
Gippsland MP Darren Chester is exploring funding for a Latrobe Valley initiative involving local health and education organisations to provide free healthy meals twice weekly, addressing student hunger, poor nutrition and wellbeing. - Labor government boosts Latrobe Valley businesses with funding to strengthen supply chains, expand markets and support future growth
The Carroll Labor government is funding six Latrobe Valley businesses to upgrade equipment, software and skills, strengthen supply chains and expand markets. - 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. - Swooping season returns across Latrobe, with council urging residents to take precautions around nesting birds
Latrobe City Council is urging residents to stay alert during swooping season, avoid nesting areas where possible, check Victoria’s Swooping Bird Map and take precautions when walking outdoors. - Liberals and Nationals to audit Latrobe Valley coal overlays to unlock land for housing and industrial development
The Liberals and Nationals will audit Latrobe Valley coal overlays to identify outdated restrictions, potentially unlocking land for housing and industrial development while retaining protections where mine safety and ground stability remain at risk. - Flight Test Range Command Centre opens at Latrobe Airport, boosting Gippsland's drone and aerospace industries and economic diversification
A new Flight Test Range Command Centre at Latrobe Regional Airport will support drone and aerospace innovation, attract investment and create jobs across Gippsland's emerging Advanced Air Mobility sector. - Flight test command centre opens, strengthening Latrobe's role in Australia's advanced aviation innovation sector and creating new opportunities
Latrobe's new Flight Test Range Command Centre has opened at Latrobe Regional Airport, supporting advanced aviation research, drone technology, investment, manufacturing growth and skilled jobs across the region. - Stallholder applications open for 2026 Latrobe City Children's Expo connecting families and community services
Stallholder applications have opened for the 2026 Latrobe City Children's Expo, offering organisations and entertainers the chance to connect with thousands of local families during National Children's Week celebrations. - New Flight Test Command Centre opens at Latrobe Airport, boosting advanced aviation jobs, investment and innovation
A new Flight Test Range Command Centre at Latrobe Regional Airport has opened, supporting advanced aviation research, attracting investment, strengthening local businesses and creating new jobs across Gippsland. - Australia Post invests in Morwell parcel facility, boosting Latrobe City jobs, economic diversification and future growth opportunities
Australia Post has begun construction of a 10,000-square-metre parcel facility in Morwell, consolidating regional operations, supporting local jobs and strengthening Latrobe City’s economic diversification and investment opportunities. - The Nationals pledge $10M boost for Victoria's Neighbourhood Houses, supporting community hubs facing rising demand and cost pressures
The Nationals have pledged $10 million over four years for Victoria's Neighbourhood Houses, including $4 million for existing services and $6 million to establish and expand hubs in growing regions. - Nationals target Premier Ben Carroll over undelivered Latrobe Valley manufacturing jobs and broken election promises
The Nationals accused Premier Ben Carroll of failing to deliver 500 promised SEA Electric manufacturing jobs in Morwell, criticising Labor’s Latrobe Valley transition and economic record. - Martin Cameron seeks government answers over delays threatening Latrobe Magnesium's commercial project and regional investment
Martin Cameron is pressing the Victorian government over delays affecting Latrobe Magnesium’s commercial project, warning investment and hundreds of Latrobe Valley jobs could be lost. - Regional Development $750,000 investment expands employment and education support for 120 Latrobe Valley young people through 2028
The Victorian government is investing a further $750,000 in the Ladder Step Up Latrobe Valley Program, supporting 120 young people with employment, education, training and independence opportunities through 2028. - Martin Cameron backs Regional road funding to fix dangerous, neglected Latrobe Valley roads and bridges
A proposed $288 million Country Roads and Bridges program would give Latrobe City $1.5 million annually for four years to repair and upgrade local roads and bridges. - Martin Cameron renews call for PSOs at Morwell and Moe Stations, citing rising Gippsland public transport crime figures
Morwell MP Martin Cameron has renewed calls for PSOs at Morwell and Moe stations, citing a 49 percent increase in Gippsland public transport crime between 2021 and 2024. - Hazelwood North CFA to receive long-awaited new station under Nationals and Liberals' Latrobe Valley infrastructure commitment
The Nationals and Liberals have pledged a new three-bay Hazelwood North CFA station, replacing inadequate facilities and supporting volunteers through increased regional infrastructure funding. - Melina Bath accuses Labor of failing to curb illicit tobacco crime and escalating violence across regional Victoria
The Nationals have criticised Labor over ongoing illicit tobacco crime, citing alleged abductions, violence, intimidation and suspected illegal stores, while questioning Victoria’s tobacco licensing scheme effectiveness. - Mobile Service Centres bringing government support across South Gippsland communities an August and September
Australian government Mobile Service Centres will visit 12 South Gippsland communities, offering Medicare, Centrelink, myGov and Veterans’ Affairs assistance, with accessible facilities and Wi-Fi. - Wellington Shire Council backs West Sale Airport for proposed Gippsland Police Academy training campus
Wellington Shire Council will advocate for a Gippsland Police Academy at West Sale Airport, citing existing infrastructure, the former TAFE campus, expansion capacity and potential regional jobs, investment and training opportunities. - East Gippsland Shire Council consults service street businesses on proposed Bairnsdale taxi rank relocation and Nicholson street mall improvements
East Gippsland Shire Council is consulting Service Street businesses on a proposed Bairnsdale taxi rank relocation, while Nicholson Street Mall upgrades aim to improve safety and amenity. - Darren Chester says Gippsland’s 15 suspected illicit tobacco store closures highlight organised crime concerns and calls for tobacco excise reform
Gippsland MP Darren Chester says 15 suspected illicit tobacco store closures highlight organised crime concerns, advocating an 80 percent tobacco excise cut alongside stronger enforcement to combat the black market. - Darren Chester says Gippsland’s 15 suspected illicit tobacco store closures highlight organised crime concerns and calls for tobacco excise reform
Gippsland MP Darren Chester says 15 suspected illicit tobacco store closures highlight organised crime concerns, advocating an 80 percent tobacco excise cut alongside stronger enforcement to combat the black market. - Nationals and Liberals pledge PSOs at Morwell and Moe Stations, mobile CCTV trailers and 24-Hour Moe Police Station reopening
The Nationals and Liberals have pledged PSOs at Morwell and Moe stations, mobile CCTV across the Latrobe Valley, and restoring Moe Police Station to 24-hour operations under their community safety plan. - East Gippsland Council introduces free Payble online service offering ratepayers flexible, convenient and automatic payment options for rates
East Gippsland Council has introduced Payble, a free, secure online service allowing ratepayers to automate payments, choose flexible schedules, check balances and manage rates conveniently. - Gippsland commuters stranded after V/Line services end early, prompting calls for reliable regional rail services
Melina Bath criticised Gippsland rail disruptions after AFL fans were stranded following an early service cutoff, calling for reliable regional transport and promising 1,110 additional seats on Traralgon and Bairnsdale services. - The Nationals blame Labor government after 84 more jobs cut at Maryvale paper mill in Latrobe Valley
Nationals MP Martin Cameron blamed the Victorian Labor government after Opal announced 84 job cuts at Maryvale, arguing forestry policy and timber supply failures caused ongoing workforce losses. - 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. - Cr John White recognised for 10 Years of dedicated service representing East Gippsland communities on council
East Gippsland Councillor John White has been recognised for 10 years of service, including two terms as Mayor, advocating for local priorities and representing communities across government levels. - East Gippsland Seniors Festival returns this October, inviting community events across the shire
East Gippsland’s Seniors Festival returns in October, inviting community groups to submit events celebrating older residents under this year’s ‘Connect, Create and Celebrate’ theme. - Baw Baw Australia Day Awards nominations open, recognising local heroes, organisations and events, voting is until 30 October 2026
Baw Baw Shire Council has opened nominations for the 2027 Australia Day Awards, recognising outstanding citizens, young people, organisations and community events making contributions locally. - 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. - Live and Loud at GPAC brings AFL Grand Final action, family fun and entertainment to Traralgon on 26 September 2026
Latrobe City Council will host Live and Loud at GPAC on September 26, featuring family activities, entertainment, a ticketed musical-acrobat performance and free live screening of the 2026 AFL Grand Final. - Moe Inline Hockey Championships secure five-year council funding, expected to boost $15M into local economy through visitor spending
Latrobe City Council will provide $100,000 over five years to support Moe’s Australian Inline Hockey Club Championships, expected to generate $15 million locally through visitor spending and accommodation. - Melina Bath seeks Labor explanation on Gippsland children face specialist dental service cuts, longer waits and costly travel for treatment
Melina Bath says Gippsland children face longer waits after regional pediatric dental services were cut, forcing families to travel to Melbourne for specialist treatment. - Bass Coast offers free green waste disposal from 31 October to 22 November to help residents prepare for bushfire season
Bass Coast Shire Council will accept domestic green waste free at its four waste facilities from 31 October to 22 November 2026, helping residents reduce bushfire hazards before summer. - East Gippsland Shire Council welcomes Temporary Disaster Roaming 1 October 2026, allowing access to other networks during eligible natural disasters
East Gippsland Shire Council welcomes Temporary Disaster Roaming, activated by Telstra, Optus and TPG on October 1, 2026, allowing access to other networks for essential calls, texts and limited data during eligible disasters. - Labor invests $120,000 to modernise Traralgon Library with new study pods and improved community spaces
Harriet Shing joined Latrobe City Mayor Cr Gibson and councillors to announce a $120,000 library upgrade, jointly funded by government and council
|
|
