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Acquisition of land to commence for AirParkCompulsory acquisition of outstanding land required for expansion of the Latrobe Regional Airport and the associated AirPark will commence in the next few weeks. By Latrobe Shire Council - 16th July 2004 - Back to News The move to compulsory acquisition follows two years of negotiations with owners of properties adjacent to the Latrobe Regional Airport identified as being required to facilitate the airport’s expansion and the establishment of the AirPark.
Latrobe City’s Acting Chief Executive Officer, Paul Buckley, said that owners of the majority of the land earmarked for expansion of the airport and AirPark had reached a settlement with Latrobe City Council during the past two years. "Reluctantly, Council is now forced to use compulsory acquisition to secure the remaining titles," Mr Buckley said.
Mr Buckley said that failure by Council to take action through compulsory acquisition would jeopardise future job creation at the airport. "Sustainable job creation is vital for the region and it would be irresponsible of Council to shirk its clear duty to facilitate the airport’s expansion by failing to act.
"We have witnessed the incredible growth in jobs at Gippsland Aeronautics from a handful of employees a couple of years ago to more than 120 today. The growth clearly demonstrates what is achievable when corporate vision, together with encouragement and facilitation by local and state governments, is exhibited.
"The further expansion of Gippsland Aeronautics beyond its current precinct, the servicing and release of the AirPark allotments to potential tenants who have already expressed interest, and the active marketing of the development is now reliant on the completion of the acquisition program.
"Compulsory acquisition is the normal course of action by government instrumentalities when acquiring land for public purposes. The Land Acquisition and Compensation Act provides a process of acquisition which is designed to be fair to both parties and to balance the interests of the land owner with those of the public on whose behalf the purchase is being made," Mr Buckley said.
"Council has engaged in a process of seeking to negotiate with affected property owners in the first instance. However, as further avenues for meaningful negotiation now appear to have become exhausted, compulsory acquisition remains the only way forward.
"It is worth remembering that the option for affected landowners to sell to Council by private treaty remains up until the point when Council completes the compulsory acquisition process in each case. Equally, it must be noted that the financial arrangements are likely to be the same for compulsory acquisition, so there is no advantage or disadvantage to either party. Compulsory acquisition is simply a means of now progressing the airport’s development" Mr Buckley said
"The Board, the existing Airport community and potential new tenants all await the completion of the acquisition program so that the Latrobe Regional Airport may proceed with the bold vision authorised by Latrobe City Council on behalf of the people of the Latrobe Valley and Gippsland," Mr Buckley added.
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: news@gippsland.com
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Latrobe City Council has adopted Amendment C150, rezoning Traralgon Golf Club land to a Special Use Zone, securing its long-term recreational use and preventing residential development. - Melina Bath says after 11 years of Labor, Victoria’s public lands face neglect, higher risks, and degradation
The Silver Review recommends abolishing VEAC, a $1.4 million taxpayer-funded bureaucracy, as Labor’s ineffective agency failed to improve land management or address bushfire and environmental risks. - Melina Bath tours high country, noting weeds and fuel loads, calling for stronger land management and increased on-ground environmental action
Melina Bath toured Victoria’s High Country, noting weeds and fuel loads, raising concerns about land management, fire risk and biodiversity, and calling for stronger resourcing and environmental action. - Melina Bath slams Agriculture Minister Ros Spence for ignoring Gippsland farmers' struggles under Labor's tax regime
Melina Bath criticised Agriculture Minister Ros Spence for refusing to advocate for Gippsland farmers, citing VFF survey results showing overwhelming concern over new taxes and Labor's disregard for regional agriculture. - Latrobe City Council celebrates Volunteer Week with expo taking place at Gippsland Performing Arts Centre Forecourt on 23 May 2026
Latrobe’s Volunteer Expo returns during National Volunteer Week, featuring 45+ groups, live performances, CPR training and community activities, celebrating volunteers while inspiring locals to discover meaningful opportunities. - Latrobe City introduces lime green FOGO bins from 1 July 2026, diverting food scraps from landfill to compost at Morwell’s Pinegro facility
Latrobe City introduces lime green FOGO bins from 1 July 2026, diverting food scraps from landfill for composting at Morwell’s Pinegro facility into usable soil products. - Nationals and Liberals unveil $40M plan to strengthen Gippsland's regional health workforce and services
The Nationals and Liberals propose a $40 million rural health workforce scheme, offering incentives up to $10,000 for relocation and accommodation to attract healthcare professionals to regional Victoria. - Inverloch-Wonthaggi Trail opens, attracting 600 riders, linking towns, wetlands, rail trails, recreation and biodiversity
The Inverloch to Wonthaggi Trail has officially opened, attracting over 600 riders for a community celebration and providing a scenic 13.5km route linking towns, wetlands and key regional trails. - Danny O'Brien announces finalised Loch Sport groyne designs, Gippsland Ports to seek tenders before Christmas
Erosion works on Loch Sport foreshore will begin next year, with designs finalised for new groynes. Danny O'Brien praised the community's persistence and vowed to push for further coastal protection. - Darren Chester quits shadow ministry, vows to keep fighting for Gippsland and regional Australia
Gippsland MP Darren Chester has resigned from the Coalition shadow ministry but says he remains committed to representing Gippslanders and regional Australians in Parliament despite political tensions over legislation proposed. - Danny O’Brien says July-September 2025 data shows Labor continues failing Gippsland’s critical emergency response
Ambulance Victoria data shows Gippsland response times well below targets, with urgent calls for the Allan Labor government to improve staffing, resources, and performance to protect regional communities. - Victorians left paying for Commonwealth Games promises while Scotland hosts the 2026 event instead
Victoria's cancelled 2026 Commonwealth Games left taxpayers with a $589 million bill, delayed regional projects, and unfulfilled infrastructure promises, drawing criticism over the handling of the abandoned event. - From Job expos to farms and sports awards connecting communities across East Gippsland through events and advocacy
From jobs expos to farm visits, sports awards, and community projects, recent weeks highlighted East Gippsland's talent, resilience, and collaboration, advocacy, and opportunities that strengthen local communities. - Dental experts warn Labor plan could worsen lengthy public dental waits for vulnerable Gippslanders across regional Victoria
Dental experts warn Labor's proposed public dental expansion could worsen Gippsland wait times, with vulnerable residents already facing waits exceeding two years in some areas. - Victorian government confirms Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix will remain at Phillip Island with ongoing event support
Bass Coast Council welcomes Victorian Government confirming Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix will stay at Phillip Island, rejecting Albert Park move, ensuring ongoing funding, supporting tourism, jobs, and regional community benefits beyond 2026. - Latrobe City launches FOGO service, helping households recycle food scraps and reduce landfill from 1 July 2026
Latrobe City Council's new FOGO service has begun, allowing households to recycle food scraps with garden waste, reducing landfill, cutting emissions and creating compost. Free kitchen caddies are available. - 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. - Baw Baw Council and community oppose large-scale solar, battery projects threatening prime farmland and farming livelihoods
Baw Baw Council and community express strong concerns over poorly sited solar and battery projects threatening prime farmland, seeking transparency, consultation, and protection of local farming livelihoods and regional character. - 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. - Pip Courtney brings National Agricultural insights to Orbost Show’s Far East Victoria Landcare Expo
ABC Landline presenter Pip Courtney was keynote at the Orbost Show Landcare Expo, sharing agricultural insights, promoting sustainable farming, soil health, and collaboration between producers, Landcare groups, and regional communities. - 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. - Darren Chester praises volunteers powering Traralgon International’s global success, showcasing Gippsland worldwide tennis event
Federal MP Darren Chester has praised Latrobe Valley volunteers for driving the success of the Traralgon International, highlighting their dedication, community pride and vital role in showcasing Gippsland globally. - Silcocks Hill Road in Toora reduced to single lane for four to six weeks during landslip repairs
Silcocks Hill Road in Toora will operate under single-lane conditions for four to six weeks from August 17 while landslip remediation works are completed, with motorists urged to allow extra travel time. - Melina Bath honours Colin "Stocky" Stockdale for 63 years of outstanding CFA service to South Gippsland community
Melina Bath congratulated Colin "Stocky" Stockdale on receiving the CFA's highest honour, recognising his 63 years of leadership, mentorship and dedicated service protecting South Gippsland communities. - 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. - Coalition pledges $5B road maintenance fund to repair potholes and improve Gippsland's road safety
The Coalition has pledged a $5 billion road maintenance fund to repair one million potholes, restore Better Roads Victoria, improve road safety, and increase regional infrastructure spending to 25 percent if elected. - 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. - Darren Chester elected Nationals Deputy Leader, pledges stronger voice for regional Australia and Gippsland communities
Darren Chester has been elected Deputy Leader of The Nationals, serving with leader Matt Canavan, pledging to strengthen regional voices and advocate for Gippsland and rural Australians in Canberra. - Skeene Creek Farm launches, driving sustainable agriculture, innovation, and resilience across East Gippsland region
Skeene Creek Farm launches near Bairnsdale, transforming underutilised land into a sustainable agriculture hub, promoting circular economy, innovation, environmental resilience, and practical research for East Gippsland farmers. - Coalition moves to block Labor's carbon credit forestry plan, warning of regional job losses and land lock-ups
The Coalition will seek to block Labor's carbon credit forestry policy, arguing it threatens native timber industries, regional jobs, agricultural land, timber supply and long-term economic sustainability. - The Nationals and farm groups warn EPBC changes create uncertainty for farmers and land management
Nationals leader Matt Canavan met with farm groups over concerns Labor’s EPBC changes could create uncertainty and regulatory risks. Industry wants amendments, clearer guidance, mapping, support tools and independent review. - 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. - Bass Coast Shire Council begins Cowes foreshore upgrades with $8M funding improvements for safer, greener, connected spaces
Bass Coast Shire Council will soon commence the Cowes Foreshore Precinct Project, delivering staged civil and landscaping upgrades with $8 million federal funding, revitalising Cowes into a safer, greener and more connected destination. - 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. - Danny O'Brien proposes fair share guarantee to secure infrastructure funding for regional Victoria, including Gippsland projects
The Nationals propose a Fair Share Guarantee to ensure 25 percent of infrastructure funding for regional Victoria, addressing long-standing underinvestment and supporting Gippsland communities. - 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. - Baw Baw Shire honours nine outstanding individuals and groups at 2026 Australia Day Awards ceremony held on 22 January 2026
Nine individuals and groups were honoured at Baw Baw Shire’s 2026 Australia Day Awards for outstanding community service, celebrated by Mayor Kate Wilson and the local community. - Bass Coast Community Awards celebrate outstanding volunteers, leaders and organisations strengthening local connections and community spirit
Bass Coast Shire Council honoured five outstanding individuals and organisations at the 2026 Community Awards, recognising volunteers, leaders and community groups whose dedication strengthens connections and community spirit across Bass Coast. - Latrobe City launches investment campaign showcasing strength, innovation, and opportunities across Gippsland
Latrobe City Council launched an investment campaign showcasing business strength, innovation, and opportunities positioning itself as Gippsland's hub for growth, transformation, and future industries. - Danny O’Brien says pothole crisis highlights need for fair funding and improved regional roads
Gippsland needs fair infrastructure funding as pothole repairs highlight widespread road damage and alleged neglect under Victorian government spending priorities. - Danny O’Brien said the state’s fuel price app is ineffective, though price transparency tools like Servo Saver can help strained household budgets
Gippsland South MP Danny O’Brien urges state and federal governments to secure regional fuel supply, warning rising costs, panic-buying, and supply restrictions threaten farmers, transport, essential services, and local households. - Darren Chester warns Labor gun law changes unfairly target regions, distract from government extremism failures
Gippsland MP Darren Chester says Labor’s firearm law changes unfairly punish regional Australians, distract from failures tackling anti-Semitism and extremism, and won’t prevent terrorism like the Bondi attack tragedy violence. - Local builder awarded contract for next stage of WORLD Sporting Precinct soccer redevelopment in Bairnsdale project
East Gippsland Shire Council has awarded Brooker Builders the contract to deliver new soccer facilities at WORLD Sporting Precinct, creating a modern regional home for the sport. - Danny O’Brien said poor dental health is tied to cardiovascular disease, diabetes complications and mental health impacts
Gippslanders now face almost two-year waits for public dental care, with Danny O’Brien blaming a decade of Labor for doubled delays, escalating health risks and under-resourced regional clinics. - Darren Chester praises Orbost Community College student leaders for passion, ideas and commitment to East Gippsland's future
Darren Chester praised Orbost Community College student leaders for their passion and ideas during discussions on education, health, economy, and community, highlighting the importance of listening to youth for regional Victoria's future. - 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. - 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. - The Nationals criticise Labor police recruitment announcement, demanding action on shortages, crime and regional policing resources
The Nationals say Labor's Gippsland police recruitment announcement lacks detail and comes too late, arguing Victoria needs more officers, stronger laws and better support to address crime and staffing shortages. - 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. - Danny O’Brien calls for Royal Commission into Big Build corruption, urging petition support
Danny O’Brien is urging Gippslanders to support a petition calling for a Royal Commission into alleged Big Build corruption, claiming $15 billion in lost taxpayer funds and missed regional investment. - 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 Regional Gallery launches Autumn 2026 season, featuring five exhibitions exploring migration, heritage and environment
Latrobe Regional Gallery’s Autumn 2026 season opens 7 February, featuring five exhibitions exploring migration, heritage, identity, environment, and connections to place, including works by Lucy Hersey and Janina Green. - 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 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. - 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 unveils bold, playful winter exhibitions for all ages and curious minds
Latrobe Regional Gallery’s winter season features bold, playful exhibitions exploring climate, sustainability, overlooked artworks and arcade art, alongside a quirky kids space. Free entry, open daily, it offers something for all ages. - 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. - Wellington Early Years Expo returns, offering free family fun, services and play-based activities for young children on 30 April 2026
The 2026 Wellington Early Years Expo returns to the Gippsland Regional Sports Complex in Sale on Thursday 30 April inviting families to enjoy an afternoon of learning and connection for children aged 0–5 years.
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