Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com

• Bass Coast Sustainability Festival 2026 celebrates community creativity, and environmental care at Blue Gum Reserve, Cowes on 7 March 2026
  The 2026 Bass Coast Sustainability Festival at Blue Gum Reserve, Cowes, celebrates community, creativity, and environmental care with workshops, live music, stalls, food, and special guest Craig Reucassell.
• Bass Coast celebrates Victorian Seniors Festival this October with events, workshops, performances and community connection
  The Victorian Seniors Festival returns to Bass Coast this October with the theme Connect, Create, Celebrate, offering workshops, performances, games, tours, and free transport for Seniors Card holders.
• East Gippsland Business Support Voucher Program boosts small businesses through tailored mentoring and strategic growth guidance
  Orbost Snowy River Cycling benefited from East Gippsland Council Business Support Voucher Program, receiving tailored mentoring that strengthened business planning, resilience, and growth, enabling expansion and long-term success in the region.
• South Gippsland Seniors Festival offers free and low-cost events to connect, create, and celebrate together
  South Gippsland celebrates Victorian Seniors Festival this October with 60+ free and low-cost events across nine towns, inviting over-60s to connect, create, celebrate, and enjoy community through sport, arts, learning, and fun.
• Bass Coast Shire Council hosts free creative industries workshop with marketing strategies, PR insights on 12 November 2025
  Bass Coast Shire Council is hosting a free creative industries workshop in Cowes on 12 November, offering marketing strategies, PR insights, business support, and networking with local media.
• 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.
• Bass Coast announces fee-free green waste period to help residents prepare for upcoming fire season
  Bass Coast residents can dispose of domestic green waste for free from 1 - 23 November 2025, helping the community prepare properties and reduce fire hazards ahead of the summer season.
• Bass Coast Shire Council endorses Quarterly Performance Report, showing progress, achievements, and positive financial outlook for December 2025
  Bass Coast Council’s Quarterly Performance Report shows strong progress on 2025–26 Action Plan, key projects advancing, and a $2 million operating surplus, reflecting strategic achievements and responsible financial management.
• Bass Coast hosts 2026 International Women’s Day lunch celebration guest speaker Hannah Diviney at Phillip Island Winery, Ventnor on 6 March 2026
  Bass Coast Shire Council will host its 2026 International Women’s Day Lunch on 6 March at Phillip Island Winery, featuring guest speaker Hannah Diviney, celebrating women’s achievements, equality and community connection.
• Bass Coast Council leaders advocating events, infrastructure, recreation, coastal protection, public transport, and environmental conservation
  Bass Coast Council leaders held 12 Parliament meetings, advocating for events, infrastructure, recreation, coastal protection, public transport, and environmental conservation, seeking government support and funding for key community projects.
• Bass Coast Shire Council invites public submissions on Inverloch Surf Parade one-way proposal for shared path completion by 1 April 2026
  Bass Coast Council invites public submissions on Inverloch Surf Parade one-way proposal, enabling final shared path stage, preserving car parking, addressing coastal erosion, and completing safe Inverloch-to-Wonthaggi trail connection.
• Bass Coast Shire Council invites community to help shape the next stage of Climate Action Plan at Berninneit in Cowes 25 October 2026
  Bass Coast Shire Council invites the community to a Climate Action Plan Review Workshop to reflect on progress, share ideas, and help shape the next five years of local climate action.
• Bass Coast Council adopts 2026 - 2029 Domestic Animal Management Plan to support responsible pet ownership and wildlife protection
  Bass Coast Shire Council has adopted its 2026 - 2029 Domestic Animal Management Plan, promoting responsible pet ownership, wildlife protection, and safer shared spaces shaped by extensive community consultation and environmental stewardship goals.
• Bass Coast Shire Council delivers new shared path linking Cowes and Ventnor, boosting transport safety and community connectivity
  Bass Coast Shire Council will deliver a new 2km Ventnor Road Shared Path, linking Cowes and Ventnor, improving safety, accessibility, and community connectivity. The $1.96m project is jointly funded with the Australian government.
• Bass Coast Shire Council sets four-year strategic direction with refreshed Community Vision, Council Plan, and Annual Action Plan
  Bass Coast Shire Council has adopted its refreshed Community Vision 2045, Council Plan 2025-2029, and Annual Action Plan, setting a community-shaped strategic direction celebrating the region’s diverse landscapes and values.
• Bass Coast Council launches mid-term review of Climate Change Action Plan, celebrating achievements and inviting community input
  Bass Coast Shire Council is reviewing its Climate Change Action Plan 2020-2030, celebrating renewable energy achievements and inviting community feedback through surveys, pop-up sessions, engagement events, and a special film screening.
• 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.
• Bass Coast Shire Council adopts 2024 - 2025 Annual Report, showcasing community achievements and future strategic direction
  Bass Coast Shire Council has adopted its 2024 - 2025 Annual Report, celebrating achievements, community progress, and the completion of the 2021 - 2025 Council Plan while setting a new strategic direction for 2025-2029.
• Bass Coast Shire Council presents free Woolamai Beach Safety event featuring Dr Rip’s 'Science of the Surf' on 7 March 2026
  Bass Coast Shire Council will host a free, family-friendly beach safety event at Woolamai Beach Surf Life Saving Club on 7 March 2026, featuring Professor Rob Brander’s Science of the Surf and live rip demonstration.
• Bass Coast launches energy resilient hubs and emergency dashboard to strengthen community preparedness and recovery
  Bass Coast Shire Council has launched Energy Resilient Community Hubs and an Emergency Dashboard to boost preparedness, strengthen local resilience, and keep communities safe, connected, and supported during emergencies and power outages.
• Bass Coast Council trials new multilingual coastal safety signage at high-risk beaches to reduce drowning incidents
  Bass Coast Council is trialling new multilingual coastal safety signage at high-risk beaches, providing hazard warnings, QR codes, and educational resources to improve visitor safety and reduce drowning incidents.
• Bass Coast Shire Council urges Victorian government, LSV to ensure lifeguard patrols continue safely, without cuts
  Bass Coast Shire Council urges Victorian government and LSV to guarantee lifeguard patrols, warning proposed funding hike strains budgets while beaches remain high-risk, with recent drownings highlighting urgent safety needs.
• Bass Coast Shire Council pop-up sessions on four local playspace upgrades and proposed new designs on 13 Jan 2026
  Bass Coast Council is upgrading four playspaces in Wonthaggi, Cape Paterson, and Ventnor, inviting community feedback on two design options via Engage Bass Coast and January pop-up sessions.
• Bass Coast Shire Council adopts new Rating Strategy, lowering farm rates and modernising fair valuation system
  Bass Coast Shire Council adopts new Rating Strategy, lowering farm rates, increasing vacant land differential, introducing pensioner and first-homeowner rebates, and aligning Rural Land Management reforms with biodiversity and community feedback.
• Bass Coast Council adopts 10-year Financial and Asset Plans to guide $1.47B in infrastructure management
  Bass Coast Shire Council has adopted its 2025 - 35 Financial and Asset Plans to guide infrastructure investment, manage $1.47 billion in assets, and deliver community priorities identified through consultation.
• Bass Coast Shire Council celebrates local community groups’ achievements and grants at inspiring event
  Bass Coast Council celebrated 92 local community groups, awarding $294,000 in grants, including $40,000 for climate projects, supporting creativity, connection, and resilience across the region at a vibrant celebration.
• Bass Coast wins National AustStab Award for sustainable road recycling and innovative rehabilitation
  Bass Coast Shire Council won the 2025 AustStab Award for Excellence for pioneering road recycling methods, cutting emissions by 85%, truck movements by 80%, and delivering faster, more sustainable, durable roads with less disruption.
• Bass Coast Council awards $1.01M contract to restore Wonthaggi heritage-listed old post office
  Bass Coast Shire Council has awarded a $1.01 million contract to TS Constructions to restore Wonthaggi heritage-listed Old Post Office, preserving its historic character and ensuring long-term structural integrity.
• Bass Coast Christmas Giving Trees set up to support local families in need this festive season
  Bass Coast Shire Council’s Christmas Giving Trees are collecting gifts, gift cards, and food to support local families, with donations accepted at Customer Service Centres until early December.
• Bass Coast secures long-term protection for distinctive landscapes and Western Port Woodlands
  Bass Coast Shire Council welcomes the Bass Coast Statement of Planning Policy, securing long-term protections for 24 townships, distinctive landscapes, and the Western Port Woodlands while guiding sustainable future growth.
• Korumburra hosts South Gippsland Garlic Festival 2026 with stalls, cooking demos, entertainment, and garlic-inspired food on 28 February
  The South Gippsland Garlic Festival returns to Korumburra on 28 February, featuring almost 100 stalls, garlic-inspired dishes, cooking demos, chef presentations, entertainment, kids’ activities, and Garlic University workshops.
• 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.
• 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.
• Danny O’Brien urges Gippsland communities to participate in Clean Up Australia Day on Sunday, 1 March 2026
  Danny O’Brien encourages Gippsland communities, schools, and groups to join Clean Up Australia Day on 1 March 2026, protecting beaches, waterways, and local areas while building on last year’s success.
• Danny O’Brien congratulates Gippsland Volunteer Emergency Services on VESEP funding support
  Danny O’Brien praised Gippsland volunteer emergency services for VESEP funding, supporting vital equipment, facility upgrades, and ongoing advocacy for a new Port Welshpool Coast Guard vessel to ensure community safety.
• Danny O'Brien praises Gippsland community's generosity supporting Foster Kids after ram raid destroyed Christmas gifts
  Danny O'Brien praised Gippsland's generosity after a ram raid devastated A Better Life For Foster Kids, urging continued support through toy donations, PJ Day participation, and community involvement to brighten children's lives.
• Danny O’Brien urges Gippsland landholders to understand new property taxes and reporting obligations effective from 1 January 2026
  Danny O’Brien urged Gippsland landholders to understand new property taxes and reporting obligations from 1 January 2026, warning compliance is essential to avoid penalties despite Nationals’ opposition.
• Danny O’Brien urges Gippsland tobacco retailers to obtain licences as new state licensing scheme is enforced from 1 February 2026
  Danny O’Brien urges Gippsland tobacco retailers to comply with Victoria’s new licensing scheme, aiming to curb illegal sales, organised crime, and ensure consistent enforcement for safer regional communities.
• Danny O'Brien celebrates Gippsland South schools receiving VicHealth Kitchen Garden grants to boost cooking and gardening education
  Danny O'Brien has congratulated five Gippsland South primary schools awarded VicHealth Kitchen Garden grants, supporting hands-on cooking, gardening, and healthy eating education to build students' lifelong skills, and sustainability awareness.
• Danny O'Brien says Gippsland roads among state's most dangerous after years of neglect under Allan Labor government
  Danny O'Brien says new AusRAP data shows many Gippsland roads are unsafe after years of Labor neglect, criticising the government for lowering speed limits instead of properly fixing deteriorating roads.
• Danny O'Brien urges Gippsland Sporting Clubs to register for Get Active Kids Voucher Program reopening on October
  Danny O'Brien urges Gippsland sporting clubs to register for the Get Active Kids Voucher Program, supporting families with up to $200 per child for sports fees, uniforms, and equipment.
• Danny O’Brien thanks Gippsland community for generosity supporting foster children’s Christmas Giving Tree appeal
  Danny O’Brien thanked Gippslanders for their generosity in supporting the Giving Tree appeal, helping ensure foster children receive Christmas gifts and feel remembered, valued, and cared for this holiday season.
• Danny O’Brien says South Gippsland Highway receives constant patch-ups instead of proper, long-term investment
  Danny O’Brien criticises South Gippsland Highway constant patch-ups, highlighting 169 maintenance tasks since July, calling for proper investment and long-term repairs instead of short-term, wasteful fixes by the Labor government.
• Danny O'Brien commends South Gippsland Shire for securing Nyora transport study funding, urges further state investment
  Danny O'Brien has praised South Gippsland Shire Council for securing state funding for the Nyora Transport Study, urging the Allan Labor Government to follow through with real investment and road upgrades.
• Danny O'Brien seeks explanation for South Gippsland entering fire danger period earlier than neighbouring regions
  Danny O'Brien has urged the Emergency Services Minister to explain why South Gippsland entered the Fire Danger Period early, leaving farmers concerned about limited time for essential burn-offs and cleanup.
• Danny O'Brien urges Gippslanders to use free blind safety kits to prevent tragic child accidents
  Gippsland South MP Danny O’Brien urges residents to order free Consumer Affairs Victoria blind safety kits, warning unsecured curtain cords are a hazard and simple fixes can prevent child deaths.
• Danny O'Brien criticises Labor's police station maintenance cuts despite backflip restoring partial funding for grounds upkeep
  Danny O'Brien has criticised Labor's partial backflip on police station maintenance cuts, saying Gippsland officers deserve safe, clean workplaces and stronger government support amid rising regional crime rates.
• Danny O'Brien warns Bayside Health merger threatens Gippsland communities, confirming hidden health service consolidation
  Danny O'Brien criticises Labor's Bayside Health merger, warning it will reduce local hospital autonomy, limit community input, and risk services for Gippsland residents, prioritising bureaucratic cost-saving over patient care.
• Danny O’Brien urges Labor government to urgently fix South Gippsland Highway dangerous, deteriorating road conditions statewide
  Danny O’Brien urges the Allan Labor government to urgently repair the deteriorating South Gippsland Highway, citing potholes, failing patches, and community frustration across key stretches before the busy holiday period.
• Danny O’Brien condemns sudden AKD Yarram timber mill closure, 73 jobs lost, pledges support for affected community
  Gippsland South MP Danny O’Brien says sudden AKD Yarram timber mill closure, costing 73 jobs, devastates the community, pledging support for affected families, workers, and local businesses during this crisis.
• Free visitor information materials help East Gippsland businesses guide visitors quickly and easily summer
  East Gippsland Shire Council is providing free QR-code posters, stickers and magnets to help businesses quickly connect visitors with maps, attractions, events and essential information via the Visit East Gippsland website.
• Danny O’Brien delivers hundreds of donated nappies to Vinnies, supporting Gippsland families in need across the region
  Danny O’Brien has donated hundreds of unused nappies to Vinnies, collected via The Nappy Collective, helping Gippsland families experiencing "nappy stress" and encouraging ongoing community support.
• Danny O’Brien thanks volunteers and communities for celebrating Australia Day across South Gippsland with the awards and ceremonies
  Danny O’Brien thanked volunteers, councils, and community groups for Australia Day events, celebrating new citizens, recognising local award recipients, and highlighting Gippsland South’s community spirit and contributions.
• Danny O'Brien visits Gippsland schools honouring Anzac Legacy by planting 100 lone pines across Victoria
  Gippsland schools joined the "100 Lone Pines Project," with Danny O’Brien delivering seedlings, connecting students to Gallipoli history and honoring the Anzac legacy through planting descendant pines across Victoria.
• Danny O’Brien calls for clarity on free children’s public transport amid Gippsland V/Line concerns
  Danny O’Brien urges Labor to clarify free children’s public transport rollout, warning Gippsland families face confusion over youth myki requirements, online access, and unmanned V/Line stations from January 2026.
• Danny O'Brien slams Labor's repeated 'Better Roads Blitz' claims as Gippsland roads continue crumbling
  Nationals MP Danny O'Brien has slammed Labor's latest "Better Roads Blitz," saying Gippsland roads remain neglected, unsafe, and underfunded, with locals enduring potholes, hazards, and long-term speed reductions instead of real maintenance.
• Danny O'Brien warns Labor is risking beachgoers safety by forcing councils, ratepayers to cover LSV funding shortfalls
  Danny O'Brien warns the Allan Labor government is forcing Gippsland councils and ratepayers to cover Life Saving Victoria shortfalls, risking reduced lifeguard patrols despite billions in new emergency services taxes.
• Danny O'Brien condemns Labor for empty social housing amid growing waitlists and rental shortages in Gippsland
  Danny O'Brien has criticised Labor for leaving social housing vacant as waitlists grow, citing fewer homes, shrinking rental availability, rising costs, and failed policies driving investment away in Gippsland South.
• Danny O'Brien welcomes progress on Sealers Cove track repairs but slams years of Labor delays at Wilsons Prom
  Danny O'Brien welcomed long-overdue progress on Sealers Cove track repairs at Wilsons Prom but criticised Labor for years of delays, saying Gippsland deserves timely investment in vital tourism infrastructure and facilities.
• Danny O'Brien criticises Labor for closing Sale and Bairnsdale courts on non-sitting days, inconveniencing locals
  Danny O'Brien condemns the Labor government for closing Sale and Bairnsdale courts on non-sitting days, restricting public access and causing significant inconvenience for Gippsland communities who rely on local court assistance.
• 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.
• 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.
• Experience the George Bass Coastal Walk with dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, scenic views, and coastal adventure
  The George Bass Coastal Walk offers dramatic clifftop views, hidden beaches, wildlife sightings, and nearby cafes, pubs, and rail trails, creating a scenic Gippsland adventure just over 1.5 hours from Melbourne.
• Danny O’Brien says Crime Statistics Agency figures reveal rising serious assaults and theft across Gippsland communities
  Crime is rising across Gippsland, with assaults, thefts, and burglaries increasing sharply, prompting Nationals’ Danny O’Brien to call for stronger police resourcing, law reforms, and preventative measures.
• Danny O’Brien warns 33 percent crime rise highlights Gippsland commuters’ safety concerns, lacking adequate PSO protection
  Crime on Gippsland public transport has risen nearly 33% in 12 months, raising concerns about PSO coverage and regional commuter safety under the Allan Labor government.
• 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.
• Danny O’Brien calls Labor’s free November travel scheme a stunt, with Gippsland commuters disrupted
  Gippsland commuters faced 19 days of disruptions despite Labor’s free-travel November scheme, with ongoing delays, confusion, and bus replacements highlighting mismanaged rail projects and continued frustration for passengers.
• 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.
• Danny O'Brien says reduced bonus helps some, but bungled energy policies and digital-only access hurt households
  The state's Power Saving Bonus has been cut from $250 to $100 and is now limited to concession card holders, leaving many Gippsland households without relief despite rising energy costs.
• Kickstart your career locally with Bass Coast Shire Council’s 2026 Traineeship Program send applications by 26 January 2026
  Bass Coast Shire Council’s 2026 Traineeship Program offers young people and career returners real-world experience, Certificate III qualifications, flexible work, and pathways to permanent roles across seven diverse disciplines.
• Latrobe City invites community to celebrate International Rose Garden Festival Morwell with lights, music and fun on 7-8 November 2025
  Latrobe City Council invites everyone to the free International Rose Garden Festival Morwell, 7-8 November 2025, featuring night lights, live music, workshops, market stalls, performers, and over 4,000 blooming roses.
• Celebrate South Gippsland Eat Drink Play Festival and other council updates
  Eat Drink Play Gippsland returns to Leongatha's Railway Precinct, celebrating local food, drink, and music with family fun, tastings, live entertainment, and community spirit. Tickets are selling fast - don't miss out!
• 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.
• Labor government slammed as Gippsland crime soars, Danny O'Brien warns communities are failed by weak laws
  Danny O'Brien says Gippsland crime is surging under Labor, with major increases across all councils. He warns weakened laws, police shortages, and neglect leave communities unsafe, demanding stronger action and real consequences.
• East Gippsland CMA protects Gippsland’s critically endangered Redgum Woodlands and seasonal herbaceous wetlands
  EGCMA and partners are restoring Gippsland’s Critically Endangered Redgum Woodlands and Wetlands, planting native species, improving habitats, and tackling threats across 15 key sites for long-term conservation.
• East Gippsland Youth Ambassadors lead with vision, proving young voices shape community and lasting impact
  Eight months in, East Gippsland Youth Ambassadors are shaping the region's future, addressing key issues, leading projects, and gaining leadership skills that build confidence, community engagement, and long-term positive impact.
• 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.
• Melina Bath condemns Labor for blocking protest bill and failing to protect police, businesses, and public safety
  Labor, backed by the Greens and minor parties, blocked Nationals and Liberals legislation to ban protest face coverings, which Melina Bath said betrayed police, small businesses, and public safety across Victoria.
• Darren Chester congratulates Hillywood Tree Nursery on expanding Gippsland-grown business with new online store
  Hillywood Tree Nursery in Briagolong has launched an online store, expanding access to Gippsland-grown plants. Darren Chester praised owner Ed Mosley for fostering innovation, sustainability, and local job growth in horticulture.
• 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.
• GPAC’s Summer Nights series brings free outdoor movies and family fun to Gippsland community on 13, 14, 21 February and 20 March 2026
  GPAC’s Summer Nights brought families together with free outdoor movies, live entertainment, and food trucks, drawing strong community attendance and extending the series due to popular demand in Gippsland.
• Stroll among thousands of vibrant roses in full bloom at Morwell's International Rose Garden Festival, 7 - 8 November 2025
  The 2025 Rose Garden Festival features free family fun with blooming gardens, workshops, live performances, markets, aerial theatre, kids' entertainment, and the spectacular AGL Loy Yang Night Light Installation.
• East Gippsland Council endorses Coastal and Marine Management Plan to protect treasured coastline sustainably
  East Gippsland Shire Council has endorsed the Coastal and Marine Management Plan, providing a coordinated framework to protect and sustainably manage coastal reserves with community, Traditional Owner, and stakeholder input.
• Applications open for 2026 South Coast Community Leadership Program Supporting Local Skills Development until 13 February 2026
  Applications are open for the free 2026 South Coast Community Leadership Program, helping locals build skills, connect with peers, and positively impact Bass Coast and South Gippsland communities. Apply by February 13.
• Forge Theatre's school holiday season brings classic tales, comedy chaos and heartfelt community spirit to East Gippsland
  The Forge Theatre's school holiday season features The Velveteen Rabbit, Polite Mammals, and The Heartbreak Choir, offering family fun, comedy, and heartfelt community spirit with something for everyone to enjoy.
• East Gippsland celebrates connection, creativity, and community with 2025 month-long Seniors Festival program
  East Gippsland Shire Council presents the 2025 Seniors Festival, offering over 60 free and low-cost events celebrating connection, creativity, wellbeing, and community for older residents throughout October.
• 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.
• Martin Cameron says new emergency services tax replaces fire levy, adding enormous pressure to struggling small businesses
  Latrobe Valley small businesses face soaring costs as Labor's new Emergency Services Tax replaces the Fire Services Levy, with Nationals warning it punishes regional communities and fuels insolvencies amid financial mismanagement.
• 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.
• Gippsland faces sobering family violence rates during 16 Days of Activism Campaign, Danny O’Brien warns
  Gippsland records some of Victoria’s highest family violence rates, says Danny O’Brien, urging community action during the 16 Days of Activism to promote respect, safety, and awareness across the region.
• Yarram - Explore Heesco Town murals, vibrant street art, lush rainforests, coastal walks, local cuisine, and Gippsland heritage
  Yarram, a charming Gippsland town, features over 25 Heesco murals, lush rainforests, coastal walks, local seafood, wineries, heritage sites, and the Great Southern Rail Trail.
• East Gippsland Council cuts planning approval times, boosting efficiency for residents, landowners, and businesses
  East Gippsland Council has nearly halved planning permit approval times to 43 days, improving efficiency, reducing red tape, and supporting residents, landowners, and businesses with faster project approvals.
• CFA faces critical staffing shortages in Gippsland as Labor government fails to act before dangerous fire season
  A new report reveals serious CFA staffing shortages in Gippsland, with vacancies, fatigue, and leadership gaps risking slower responses this dangerous fire season. Labor must act urgently.
• 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.
• East Gippsland Australia Day Awards celebrate community spirit, honouring events and initiatives making meaningful impact in 2026
  The 2026 East Gippsland Australia Day Awards honoured the Winter Festival and Breast Care Support Fund for fostering connection, generosity, and community spirit across the region.
• Gippsland students return to classrooms rated poor or below average, exposing Labor’s neglect of regional schools, says Danny O'Brien
  As Gippsland students return to school in 2026, 18 regional schools are rated poor or below average, highlighting Labor’s neglect and urgent need for infrastructure investment, says Danny O’Brien.
• 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.
• South Gippsland Shire Council invites you to submit EOI for Coal Creek food vendor on Living Heritage Days by 14 February 2026
  Coal Creek seeks a local food and drink vendor for Living Heritage Days, held monthly from 7 March. Businesses can boost trade and connect with customers. Applications close 14 February.
• Raise a glass to Gippsland's finest wines, brews, spirits and ciders at 'Eat Drink Play'
  EAT DRINK PLAY Gippsland serves up local wines, brews, spirits, and ciders. Festival-goers can enjoy tastings, community vibes, and unique creations from some of Gippsland's best makers.
• South Gippsland Remembrance Day services to be held in various locations and other council updates
  South Gippsland marks Remembrance Day on 11 November with local services honouring veterans. Plus, free green waste disposal, festive giving initiatives, business support, community events, and engagement opportunities across the region this spring.
• South Gippsland Shire Council extends footpath trading permits amid system update and upcoming fee changes
  South Gippsland Shire Council is updating its Footpath Trading Permit system. Current permits are automatically extended until December, with new fees applying next year. Businesses will receive updated information once finalised.
• 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.
• East Gippsland Shire Mayor, Cr Jodie Ashworth's Christmas message
  A Christmas message celebrating East Gippsland’s community spirit, kindness and connection, encouraging care for one another, support for local businesses, warm hospitality for visitors, gratitude for workers this season together.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• West Gippsland CMA’s annual report showcases environmental achievements from mountain headwaters to coastal waters
  West Gippsland CMA’s Annual Report highlights major 2024–25 achievements restoring rivers, wetlands and habitats, supporting communities, protecting wildlife, and strengthening catchment health from mountain headwaters to the coast.
• 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.
• Victorian Health Department sets Gippsland priorities, access, workforce, safety, shared services, and mental health expansion
  The Victorian Department of Health has set four Gippsland health priorities: access, workforce, safety, and shared services, while highlighting mental health needs and significant workforce investment at Warragul's regional health leaders' forum.
• East Gippsland celebrates community contributions at 2026 Australia Day Awards with Dr Patrick Kinsella as Ambassador
  East Gippsland’s 2026 Australia Day Awards, hosted 21 January at Lakes Entrance, will honour residents’ contributions with Dr Patrick Kinsella as Ambassador, featuring live entertainment, barbecue, and community celebration.
• Gippsland's diverse landscapes and bold winemakers offering flavours as varied and unforgettable as the region itself
  From wild coastlines to rugged ranges, Gippsland delivers bold landscapes and diverse wines. At Eat Drink Play Gippsland, explore unique flavours, passionate winemakers, and stories bottled across this Switzerland-sized wine region.