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Bass Coast Local Heroes CelebratedRecognition of Citizen and Young Citizen of the Year2021 winners. By Portal Admin - 20th January 2021 - Back to News Bass Coast Shire Council announced the winners of its 2021 Bass Coast Citizen and Young Citizen of the Year at a presentation on Wednesday, 13 January.
Mat Bowtell from Cowes was announced as the 2021 Bass Coast Citizen of the Year and Wonthaggi’s Margaret Sand as the 2021 Bass Coast Young Citizen of the Year.
Mr Bowtell, founder of Free 3D Hands, was recognised for his work in re-purposing 14 of his 30 3D printers to manufacture face shields to ensure Bass Coast Health’s local health care workers, aged care services, GP clinics and other frontline workers were safe when the COVID-19 pandemic began. Mat used his own savings and through community fundraising and government funding, was able to employ locals who had lost their jobs to produce 6,000 faceshields. Mat and his team at Free 3D Hands have also been changing lives of children all over the world since 2014, providing them with the free prosthetics they manufacture.
Ms Sand, who has just completed Year 12 at Wonthaggi Secondary College, was recognised for her volunteer work, which included initiating a program to create homeless packs with Wonthaggi Christian Life Centre and Wonthaggi Anglican Church in 2019. Margaret believes community is very important, both to herself and to the fabric of how we can learn to support and help others.
In recognition of their achievements, this year’s Citizen and Young Citizen of the Year each received a painting by local artist, Katherine Muir.
Bass Coast Mayor, Cr Brett Tessari, congratulated Mr Bowtell and Ms Sand on their Awards, and thanked them for their commitment to the Bass Coast community.
"The Australia Day Awards are all about recognising ordinary Australians who contribute to our Shire above and beyond expectations. Their achievements often go unrecognised," Cr Tessari said.
The Mayor acknowledged and congratulated all the nominees for the Awards: Lija Matthews from Wimbledon Heights, Everett O'Keeffe from North Wonthaggi, Dave Sutton from Inverloch, Karen Treppo from Cowes, Mark Underwood from Cape Woolamai and Karen Walters from Inverloch.
"There are many individuals, and you all know them, who give us countless hours of work across the community in a wide range of spectrums, activities and services. These people have one thing in common. They are genuinely humble and do not expect recognition. We all owe them a debt of gratitude," Cr Tessari said.
"There are so many wonderful people that commit their time and effort to better our community.
"I would like to thank all of those that took the time to submit or contribute to the nominations for the 2021 Awards.
"I would also like to thank the judging panel for the assistance in assessing the nominations - never an easy task.," Cr Tessari concluded.
For more information on the winners and nominees, please see below.
Winner - Mat Bowtell from Cowes, nominated by Neville Goodwin
When the COVID-19 Pandemic hit full swing in March 2020, Mat heard about the extreme shortage of crucial Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). When Bass Coast Health reached out to the community after facing significant shortages, Mat contacted them and, within hours, had re-purposed 14 of his 30 3D printers to manufacture face shields to ensure local health care workers were safe.
The face shields were provided for free, in line with Free 3D Hands charity constitution, to aged care services, hospitals, GP clinics and frontline workers. This was a zero-profit exercise for Free 3D Hands and all donations received went directly towards making sure frontline healthcare workers were equipped with quality PPE, to keep everyone healthy and safe.
Mat worked day and night, for weeks on end, to meet the quotas he had set himself and the team to produce face shields. He used $14,000 of his own savings to immediately secure the raw materials and worked with Bass Coast Health to make the best product possible.
A community fundraising appeal generated $33,482 and further government funding allowed him to employ local people who had lost their jobs due to the pandemic. In total, he produced 6,000 face shields which were distributed across Australia and 2,800 of those went to Bass Coash Health.
This excellent work is in addition to the truly inspirational work already done by Mat and his team at Free 3D Hands, which has been changing the life of children all over the world since 2014. Since testing a one-million-dollar bionic arm whilst studying mechatronics at Chiba University in Japan in 2004, Mat has had the dream to make similar technology available - especially for those who cannot access or afford it.
One in 10,000 children are born with a hand difference such as being born without bones in the fingers, and often, these kids have no choice but to go without, especially in less developed countries.
Free 3D Hands use 3D printing technology to reduce the cost of manufacture to a point where they can provide assistive devices for free, to anyone in the world. On top of this, all designs are released under open-source licenses, to encourage further development and innovation in this field.
Nominee - Lija Matthews from Wimbledon Heights, nominated by Emily van der Walt.
Since the tragic death of her best friend Samantha Fraser in July 2018, Lija has dedicated herself to ensuring no more women become victims of domestic violence.
Often, when people experience tragedy, they withdraw from the world. However, Lija made the decision to make sure that even though Sam was no longer here, her voice would still be heard.
The ‘Change for Sam’ initiative was created by a group of community members and family violence service providers following Sam’s death. The Change for Sam initiative includes representatives from a broad range of local community service organisations, local businesses and most importantly, it partners with community members and Sam’s family and friends. It is driven by the community, with the aim of preventing family violence, particularly against women and children in the Bass Coast area and to coordinate current services and resources to better respond to incidents of family violence – something Sam cared about deeply.
Despite mourning the loss of her best friend, Lija put her own emotions aside to represent the community and be Sam’s voice on the ‘Change for Sam’ committee and has put hundreds of hours into developing the resources in support of the initiative.
As part of ‘Change for Sam’, Lija has initiated kindness cards to be distributed among the community and has also just finished working on a project to personally write to children over Christmas. Her kindness for others is endless and even though the pain of her losing best friend has been horrendous, she manages to put this aside to make sure a tragedy like this does not happen again.
Lija is also a huge support for Sam’s parents. She contacts them weekly and regularly gives her time to help them with their grieving.
Lija has worked closely with Jan Child from Bass Coast Health, Bass Coast Shire Council and local police and is part of the Orange Door community.
Sam’s death continues to impact on Lija’s health and wellbeing, yet she continues to get out of bed each day to make a difference for someone else.
Sam was lucky to have such beautiful friend like Lija, who dedicates all her time to make sure Sam is never forgotten. Domestic violence is huge problem in Australia. Any person who gives up their own time to try and help women feeling trapped in their relationships, is a hero.
Nominee - Everett O'Keeffe from North Wonthaggi, nominated by Theresita Plumb.
As a pharmacist, Everett has worked extremely hard to keep the community safe and COVID-19 free. When hand sanitizers became unavailable throughout the country, Everett worked day and night to manufacture them from scratch with the aim to protect the community and to keep businesses running.
Through the Wonthaggi Amcal Pharmacy Facebook page, Everett provided the community with valuable information and advice.
He put together COVID business packages and distributed them to local businesses and provided them with advice on how to protect their staff and run their business with the necessary hygiene requirements.
Everett worked tirelessly to make sure the pharmacy would remain open in order to provide the community with the service and care it needs. He introduced a vaccination facility within the pharmacy to increase herd immunity against the influenza virus.
Everett worked outside of business hours to deliver medication to the elderly and high-risk patients and he donated masks as well as eggs from his farm to a local church for distribution to the most vulnerable in our community.
This year has been an extremely stressful year for everyone across the globe, Everett did his best to provide his staff members with a safe and happy environment to work in.
Everett is an invaluable member of our local Country Fire Authority. He is always on call when needed. He has been with the CFA for 10 years and is ranked 4th Lieutenant. Everett is also a life member of the local soccer club.
Everett is a devoted husband and father. On top of working seven days a week to run the pharmacy, he and his wife/business partner, Louise, also had to home school their two daughters during lockdown.
Everett loves a good laugh, he loves music, he loves his friends but above all he adores his family. Everett is a genuinely nice person, who would never hesitate to help someone in need. Wonthaggi is very fortunate to have someone so clever, devoted, genuine and helpful. Every town needs an Everett.
Nominee - Dave Sutton from Inverloch, Nominated by Linda Pettit
Dave has, for years, been the dependable figurehead of the South Gippsland Conservation Society, during which time he has developed relationships with communities and agencies, advocating for studies to be undertaken on the erosion along our shoreline and environmental protection action.
In response to coastal erosion along Inverloch beach, Dave was instrumental in the Society receiving a grant for the Inverloch Coastal Resilience Project. This project provided science-based evidence that assisted in attracting funding of $750,000 from the State Government, to undertake a Local Coastal Hazard Assessment and Regional Strategic Partnership studies, that will inform future planning as sea levels rise and climate change impacts our communities.
Dave has volunteered well beyond his role with the Society to 'save' the Inverloch Surf Life Saving Club, our coastline and community assets. Dave is an inspirational role model, always leading with his ‘boots-on-the-ground’, including undertaking shoreline reconnaissance, laser level survey and drone monitoring following storm events.
Dave is a life member of the Society, a member of the Community Advisory Group for the West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority and a past Board Member of the Gippsland wide Energy Innovation Co-operative.
He does not seek out personal accolades, he just gets on with the job. Dave actively seeks out funding for the community, and in the past was instrumental in securing $99,000 from Pick My Project for the construction of a wetland/boardwalks - Wonthaggi's Hidden Gem.
Dave's capacity to maintain momentum and 'juggle' tasks throughout COVID-19 restrictions, creating successful and enduring relationships with community, businesses and agencies is a testament to his project management skills, passion for the environment and our community.
Nominee - Karen Treppo from Cowes nominated by Kathryn Anderson
Karen is dedicated to the welfare of children, families and her community.
As director of the Phillip Island Early Learning Centre, Karen works with families assisting in any way possible to meet their needs with dignity and respect. Inclusion and safety for all children and families is her priority and she aims to help achieve this for all those she connects with.
Karen not only oversees an amazing early childhood service, but continuously seeks ways to improve services and supports for her clients and community.
Karen has set up programs to assist children and families, including a sustainable clothing rack, where parents can donate children’s clothes and can take clothes as needed. She created the Early Learning Centre community pantry, where all families can pick up items they need or desire. There is no judgement and it is accessible to all. She also provides food vouchers and gives them out to those in crisis and need.
Karen keeps 'share the dignity bags' in her cupboard for women in need and when she feels a mother may need a safety plan, or is at risk, she seeks consent to engage other services to work together for positive outcomes.
Karen seeks grants to improve services at the Centre, and does a lot of this in her own time, without expecting recognition.
She volunteers her time to the Phillip Island Community and Learning Centre Pantry program and Monday night Uniting Church community dinners.
Karen is a mother of three beautiful young ladies, she raised twins so understands the challenges of parenting, she lives locally in Cowes and is an active member of the Phillip island community.
Karen has worked as an early childhood worker both at Kids House and as a Teachers Aid at Cowes Primary School, but her care and concern has never stopped at work. She always has time to stop and talk to her past students and families, constantly empowering them to be the best they can be.
Nominee - Mark Underwood from Cape Woolamai, nominated by Pharrah Underwood
As a Graphic Designer by day, Mark wanted to find a way to give back to his community.
So, around 12 months ago, he started a side passion project called 'Local Clothing'. With three young kids, he found it a bit difficult to get involved with the community so came up with this idea to contribute.
He runs ‘Local Clothing’ – a clothing company, offering plenty of comfy threads for men, women and children. He works after hours, when the kids are in bed.
Mark donates 10 percent of the turnover (not just 10 percent of the profit) to a different community group every month. The public is invited to nominate Bass Coast based groups or organisations for Mark to consider donating to.
In the past 12 months, Mark has donated $4,837 to local organisations, including the Woolamai Beach Surf Life Saving Club, Phillip Island CFA, The National Surfing Reserve, Change For Sam, the Phillip Island Football and Netball Club, Phillip Island Landcare, Phillip Island Community and Learning Centre (PICAL), Cowes Primary School, the Phillip Island SES, Bass Coast Health and the Penguin Foundation.
Mark does all the design, photography, marketing, packing and deliveries – bit of a one man show. This ensures the viability of the business and maximises turnover, which means more for the community.
Local Clothing is based on Mark’s passion to give back to the community and his efforts to get that cheque as big as possible at the end of every month for local community groups.
Nominee - Karen Walters from Inverloch, nominated by Jan Martin.
For the last seven years, Karen has volunteered as Convenor of the Red Cross Patient Transport Inverloch Service.
In that role, she has made a significant, positive difference to hundreds of vulnerable residents in Bass Coast, many of who have been undergoing life-saving treatment and have not had any other means to get to their medical appointments.
She organises transport to local, regional and metropolitan hospitals for people needing cancer treatment, surgery and various specialist appointments. In every situation, without exception, Karen shows genuine compassion and care to those people, who are often at their most fragile and vulnerable, providing them with the reassurance of a reliable and caring transport service.
Her volunteer role is multi-faceted. As well as organising transport for clients, Karen co-ordinates a team of up to 15 volunteer drivers at any given time. This part of her role includes training, rostering and supporting the team. She has done that every weekday, 48 weeks of the year over the last seven years, even managing the service remotely when interstate.
On top of her convenor role, during the bushfire emergency in Gippsland in January 2020, Karen organised transport for airlifted bushfire victims from Mallacoota, to emergency accommodation. In addition, becoming aware of the trauma for families at that time, she facilitated a local trauma toy donation for children affected by the bushfires with an overwhelming local response.
Karen has a unique ability to build rapport with clients and also to make every driver feel they are making a significant contribution to the service. It is not easy to build and maintain a cohesive team of volunteer drivers who work on their own. She is available for drivers to debrief, providing emotional support in what can be stressful situations.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Karen has adapted the transport service to ensure that critical services continue safely, albeit at a reduced level. She continues to provide frontline response to requests for assistance and retains the confidence of the drivers that the service will return to its former capacity when the COVID threat is over.
YOUNG CITIZEN OF THE YEAR NOMINEE
Winner - Margaret Sand from Wonthaggi, nominated by John Williams.
Margaret is 19 years old and has just completed Year 12 at Wonthaggi Secondary College. She comes from a family with five siblings and a single parent – her mum.
Margaret was a member of the Wonthaggi Secondary College leadership group and currently works at McDonald’s part-time. Whilst doing all of this, she also finds the time to volunteer at the Vinnie’s op-shop in Wonthaggi.
She believes community is very important, both to herself and to the fabric of how we can learn to support and help others. Volunteering is one such way in which Margaret contributes and shows leadership within the Wonthaggi community.
In 2019, Margaret initiated a program for homeless packs with Wonthaggi Christian Life Centre and Wonthaggi Anglican Church. She spent a sizeable portion of her own income to put together packs for people within Bass Coast who were less fortunate than herself. She has also shared her intention to write to Indigenous girls from a remote Western Australian community, to encourage and support them, as part of her commitment to strengthening community.
Margaret is passionate about helping and supporting people and it is her goal to do Law and Community Development at University, to enable her to work for an aid or advocacy agency in the future.
This year’s Citizen and Young Citizen of the Year each received a painting by a local artist.
The wonderful people that commit their time and effort to better our community.
Mat Bowtell from Cowes as the 2021 Bass Coast Citizen of the Year and Wonthaggi’s Margaret Sand as the 2021 Bass Coast Young Citizen of the Year.
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: support@gippsland.com
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Latrobe City Council invites local artists to join its Public Art Artist Register, offering paid mural opportunities, enhancing public spaces, supporting tourism, and connecting artists with future creative projects. - Tim Bull urges local clubs to apply for the Sporting Club Grants Program supporting volunteers, equipment, and program delivery by 26 November 2025
Tim Bull encourages Gippsland East sporting clubs to apply for the Sporting Club Grants Program by 26 November 2025, supporting uniforms, equipment, volunteers, events, travel, and governance development. - Tim Bull urges better local firewood access from roadside clearing to ease East Gippsland shortages before winter arrives
Tim Bull urges authorities to make roadside clearing timber available locally, expand collection areas, and improve access to firewood for East Gippsland communities ahead of winter shortages. - 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. - Gippsland Water welcomes five local women into STEM internships, promoting diversity, innovation, and career pathways for students
Gippsland Water welcomed five local women into STEM internships, providing real-world experience, mentoring, and career pathways while promoting diversity, inclusion, and innovation across multiple departments this summer. - 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. - Tim Bull praises local police but urges stronger support and tougher charges for fleeing offenders
Liberal and Nationals plan promises 3,000 extra Victoria Police officers and reopened stations, aiming to restore community safety and address rising crime across East Gippsland and Victoria. - East Gippsland Shire Council invite local businesses to workshop mountain bike tourism opportunities in Omeo on 29 April 2026
Local businesses in Omeo are invited to a 29 April workshop to explore mountain bike tourism, gain insights, and learn practical strategies to attract visitors and boost local spending. - 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. - Wellington Shire Council invites local businesses to free Defence 101 networking event in Port of Sale on 25 March 2026
Wellington Shire Council and ODIS invite local businesses to a free Defence 101 event on 25 March, helping them explore opportunities to supply large organisations locally. - Danny O’Brien congratulates local football and netball clubs recognised through this year’s TAC Club Rewards Program
Gippsland South football and netball clubs have secured TAC Club Rewards funding, promoting safe driving and road safety awareness through community-led initiatives supported by AFL Victoria. - Eat Drink Play Gippsland celebrates local flavours, award-winning cheeses, and culinary creations from passionate regional makers
Eat Drink Play Gippsland showcases top restaurants, award-winning cheeses, and artisanal delights. From snacks to gourmet dishes, the festival celebrates local flavours and passionate makers, offering something delicious for every palate. - Baw Baw Shire Council Awards ten local artists and groups as Arts and Culture Fund recipients 2026
Baw Baw Shire Council has awarded ten local artists and groups funding through its Arts and Culture Fund, supporting creative projects, skill development, and community engagement across diverse artistic disciplines. - Darren Chester urges Gippslanders to support local businesses this Christmas, boosting jobs and celebrating regional products
Federal Member Darren Chester urges Gippslanders to support local businesses this Christmas, boosting jobs, celebrating regional produce, and helping small enterprises like Sale’s "Love in a Jar" thrive across the community. - Darren Chester urges Gippslanders to support local growers, highlighting family-owned 'Get Fresh Gippsland' business
Darren Chester is urging Gippslanders to support local growers this Christmas, highlighting family-run Get Fresh Gippsland for supplying fresh, locally grown produce while strengthening the regional economy.
- Darren Chester urges Gippslanders to support local artisans, makers, and small businesses this holiday season
Federal Member Darren Chester encourages Gippslanders to shop local this Christmas, supporting artisans, makers, and small businesses like Emporium 3844, boosting the regional economy and celebrating community talent. - David Littleproud urges Australians to support local farmers amid rising imported food and supermarket pressures
Nationals Leader David Littleproud urges Australians to buy local food as farmers face soaring costs, supermarket pressures, and rising imports, warning inaction threatens food security and the future of Australian agriculture. - 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. - Darren Chester urges Gippsland’s young athletes to apply for Local Sporting Champions grants now available until 31 January 2026
Federal MP Darren Chester is urging Gippsland’s young athletes to apply for Local Sporting Champions grants supporting travel and competition costs. Eligible juniors aged 12-18 can apply before 31 January 2026. - Baw Baw Council partners with Red Cross to teach local children disaster preparedness through Resilient Kids workshops
Baw Baw Council and Red Cross are delivering Resilient Kids workshops in local schools, teaching children emergency preparedness, 000 calls, coping skills, and creating take-home emergency kits throughout 2026. - Latrobe City Australia Day Awards 2026 honoured locals’ achievements, service, and community leadership
Latrobe City celebrated the 2026 Australia Day Awards, recognising locals’ dedication, leadership, and community contributions across service, events, youth, senior, and citizen categories. - 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. - South Gippsland Eat, Drink Play Festival celebrates local food, drinks, live music, kids' activities, and outdoor fun and other updates
Eat Drink Play Gippsland returns this spring at Leongatha Railway Precinct, showcasing regional food, drink, and live music. With daytime tastings, evening entertainment, and kids' activities, it's a family-friendly celebration of Gippsland. - Danny O'Brien urges Labor government to fund new Port Welshpool Coast Guard vessel for community safety
Danny O'Brien urges the Allan Labor government to urgently fund a new $2 million vessel for Port Welshpool Coastguard, ensuring volunteers can safely cover Corner Inlet, Wilsons Promontory, and protect locals. - 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. - Baw Baw Employment Expo returns October 2025, showcasing local jobs, training, networking and career opportunities
The Baw Baw Employment Expo returns 16 October 2025, offering free access to local job opportunities, training, networking, resume support, and career advice for job seekers and businesses. - TRACE: Sea Ghosts & Other Phenomena showcases South Gippsland local artists’ work, open Fridays to Mondays until 20 April 2026
TRACE: Sea Ghosts & Other Phenomena at Coal Creek showcases works by local artists across print, photography and film, open Friday to Monday and daily during school holidays until April 20. - Mallacoota’s new purpose-built Respite Care Centre opens, providing local residents high-quality recovery support close to home
The new Mallacoota Respite Care Centre provides local residents with high-quality, home-like recovery support, keeping them connected to the community while enhancing safety and healthcare services for years to come. - 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. - Sardine dining in Bairnsdale showcases fresh local seafood with chef Mark Briggs’ expert touch
SARDINE Dining in Bairnsdale, led by chef Mark Briggs, serves expertly sourced Lakes Entrance seafood, refined dishes, and a stylish wine bar, earning six chef’s hats and drawing diners region-wide. - West Gippsland CMA hosts free sustainable farming workshops with local landcare groups from September 2025 to March 2026
West Gippsland CMA is hosting free farm field days September - March, showcasing sustainable agriculture, carbon farming, and local expertise. Workshops cover soil health, biodiversity, biofertilizers, and agribusiness opportunities. - Darren Chester praises TAFE Gippsland and BRHS partnership for training local students to strengthen regional health workforce
Darren Chester praised TAFE Gippsland and BRHS for training local students, highlighting regional partnerships as key to addressing health workforce shortages and encouraging young people to pursue local health careers. - Danny O'Brien warns faulty firefighting vehicles are leaving local CFA Brigades under pressure ahead of bushfire season
Danny O'Brien has criticised the Allan Labor government for failing to repair faulty firefighting vehicles, warning the issue is placing pressure on CFA brigades and reducing Gippsland's preparedness for bushfire season. - Mayor Rochelle Halstead honoured with MAV 10-year Service Award for her dedication to local government
Bass Coast Mayor Cr Rochelle Halstead has received the MAV 10-Year Service Award, recognising her decade of dedicated leadership, advocacy, and commitment to strengthening local government and the Bass Coast community. - East Gippsland celebrates National Volunteer Week 2026, honouring everyday heroes strengthening local communities
East Gippsland Shire celebrates National Volunteer Week 2026, recognising local volunteers’ extraordinary contributions and encouraging community members to get involved, with nominations open for the Volunteer Honour Roll all year. - Bruthen and Buchan town centre upgrades boost tourism, safety, and local businesses with $3.8M government support
Bruthen and Buchan town centre upgrades, supported by $3.8 million government funding, improve safety, accessibility, tourism, and local business, while celebrating Indigenous culture and supporting bushfire-affected communities. - Committee for Gippsland welcomed Hon David Davis MP to meet local stakeholders and business leaders
Danny O’Brien met residents across nine Gippsland South towns, discussing cost-of-living pressures, infrastructure, farming challenges, and local priorities, committing to ongoing advocacy and future mobile office visits. - Stewart Road Bridge reconstruction in Kernot progresses with $2.35M tender awarded, restoring safe local access
Bass Coast Shire Council has awarded a $2.35 million tender to rebuild Stewart Road Bridge, restoring safe access, supporting emergency services, and increasing load capacity to 44 tonnes. - East Gippsland Council seeks feedback to shape Stormwater Management Plan addressing local drainage, flooding and infrastructure challenges
East Gippsland Shire Council is developing a Stormwater Management Plan and invites community feedback to identify flooding, drainage issues, and practical solutions, helping plan safer, more resilient local infrastructure. - 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. - Baw Baw Council launches new emergency dashboard providing reliable, centralised local updates before, during and after emergencies
Baw Baw Council has launched a new Emergency Dashboard, providing residents with a single, reliable platform for real-time updates, warnings, and essential information before, during, and after emergencies on all devices. - Danny O’Brien warns Labor’s wasteful spending threatens local Neighbourhood Houses’ future
Gippsland South MP Danny O’Brien warns Labor’s mismanaged spending risks Neighbourhood Houses, urging $11.7 million funding to prevent closures, staff cuts, and protect vital community services supporting thousands weekly. - Melina Bath urges Allan government to advance Nyora early childhood education centre, ensuring local families equitable kindergarten access
The Nationals urge the Allan government to partner with the Nyora community, enabling a local early childhood education centre for equitable, convenient kindergarten access for rural families. - Thurra river bridge finally reopens after five-year delay, fueling local frustration and renewed criticism
The Thurra River Bridge has reopened after five and a half years, prompting relief and anger, with MP Tim Bull criticising prolonged delays, economic impacts, and unfinished fire recovery projects across East Gippsland. - 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. - Stewart Road Bridge reconstruction in Kernot approved, $1.768M federal funding restores vital community infrastructure
Bass Coast Council’s Stewart Road Bridge reconstruction in Kernot approved, receiving $1.768 million federal funding, restoring safe access, supporting local residents, industry, emergency services, with tendering expected early 2026. - Yarragon’s Angela Malacarne Park wins 2025 Geographic Naming Award, celebrating local heritage and community contributions
Yarragon’s Angela Malacarne Park, still under construction, has won the 2025 Geographic Naming Award, recognising Mrs Malacarne lifelong contributions and the community-led naming process. - East Gippsland Rail Trail upgraded and officially opened, boosting tourism, and local economy across the 96km trail
The final 11.46 km of the East Gippsland Rail Trail is complete, fully resurfaced, and open, boosting tourism, supporting local businesses, and providing a high-quality recreational asset for the community. - Omeo Mountain Bike Park officially opens, offering 114km trails, boosting local tourism, recreation, and economy
Omeo Mountain Bike Park officially opens Friday, featuring 114 km trails, community events, amenities, and safety measures, transforming the town into a year-round alpine adventure and tourism destination. - Darren Chester prioritises national food and fibre security, supporting farmers, fisheries, forestry and local industry resilience through strategy
New Shadow Minister Darren Chester will prioritise national food and fibre security, supporting farmers, fishers, forestry, and local communities through strategic investments, policy reforms, and protection of prime agricultural land. - East Gippsland Council launches VendorPanel for streamlined, transparent procurement and supports local businesses with information sessions
From December 2025, East Gippsland Council will use VendorPanel for streamlined procurement, offering online registration, fair opportunities, and information sessions to help local businesses navigate the platform effectively. - 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. - 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. - Union Theatre Wonthaggi HVAC upgrade begins, ensuring comfort, reliability, and long-term operation for the community
Bass Coast Shire Council is upgrading Wonthaggi’s Union Theatre HVAC system, ensuring comfort, reliability, and future-proofing the historic venue, with works valued at $899,000 and expected completion by 20 March 2026. - Have Your Say on Wonthaggi structure plan review aiming to guide growth, community needs and opportunities
Bass Coast Shire Council is reviewing the Wonthaggi Structure Plan. Have your say on the town's growth, housing, jobs, heritage, and future opportunities to help shape Wonthaggi as Bass Coast regional hub. - East Gippsland Council urges drivers to follow parking limits, protect access and support local businesses this festive season
East Gippsland drivers are urged to follow festive-season parking limits, respecting time restrictions, loading zones, and disabled bays to ensure town accessibility and support local businesses. - Gippsland Water launches Community Emergency Support Team to assist and support locals during emergencies
Gippsland Water has launched a Community Emergency Support Team to provide safe water, information, and local assistance during bushfires, floods, storms, and power outages, working alongside emergency services and communities. - 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. - Darren Chester congratulates Infusa Distillery founders for showcasing Gippsland's produce, driving growth in local food and beverage industry
Darren Chester congratulated Infusa Distillery founders Stu and Jo Taylor for their award-winning spirits, local partnerships, and contribution to Gippsland's food and beverage industry, praising their innovation, growth, and regional pride. - 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. - Danny O’Brien criticises Labor’s $650M Delburn wind farm investment ignoring local community concerns
Gippsland South MP Danny O’Brien criticises Labor’s $650 million Delburn wind farm investment, calling it a waste of taxpayers’ money that ignores local community concerns about fire, noise, and visual impact. - East Gippsland expands Whelans Group road maintenance contract, ensuring service continuity and local job retention across shire
East Gippsland Council has expanded Whelans Group’s road maintenance role, taking over areas previously managed by Cranes Asphalting, ensuring service continuity, high standards, and retention of local jobs across the shire. - Nominations open for Baw Baw Shire 2026 Australia Day Awards celebrating local community champions
Nominations are open for Baw Baw Shire 2026 Australia Day Awards, celebrating outstanding individuals, organisations, and events that make the community stronger. Entries close Friday, 24 October 2025. - SEC acquires Delburn Wind Farm, Gippsland’s first public wind project, creating jobs and boosting local energy and economy by 2028
The SEC’s acquisition of Delburn Wind Farm will deliver Gippsland’s first public wind project by 2028, creating 300 construction jobs, long-term careers, and $22 million in community benefits. - Latrobe City Council launches Action Plan to simplify fees, processes, and communications for easier local businesses to grow
Latrobe City Council’s new Action Plan simplifies fees, processes, and communications, making it easier for local businesses to operate, improve coordination, and support small businesses while driving economic growth. - Phillip Island gears up for the return of MotoGP and Marquee October events across Bass Coast
Phillip Island hosts a huge October of events, headlined by the 2025 MotoGP, drawing 100,000 fans for racing, music, and entertainment, with free Community Day tickets and Cowes transformed into an entertainment hub. - Melina Bath condemns Allan Labor government cuts halting maintenance at local police stations
Melina Bath criticises Allan Labor government for halting police station maintenance, citing $50 million budget cuts, unsafe conditions, overgrown grounds, broken lighting and delayed repairs jeopardising staff and public safety. - East Gippsland drivers urged to follow parking limits this festive season to support local businesses
East Gippsland Shire Council reminds drivers to follow festive season parking limits, ensuring accessibility, supporting local businesses, and avoiding fines, while respecting loading zones and disabled parking bays. - Tracey Ah Sam named East Gippsland 2026 Citizen of the Year for exceptional service to Omeo community
Tracey Ah Sam has been named East Gippsland’s 2026 Citizen of the Year for over 30 years’ dedicated service, leadership, and lasting impact on the Omeo community. - East Gippsland invites community input to shape Omeo district place plan and future local priorities
East Gippsland Council invites Omeo district residents to provide feedback via workshops and surveys, shaping the new Place Plan to reflect local priorities, guide council actions, and strengthen community engagement. - 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.
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