Latest News
• Add My News • Search Old News
Future Of Farming In Bass CoastMore than 35 people attended a round table on "The Future of Farming" held at the Civic Centre in Wonthaggi on Thursday, 8 March 2007. By Bass Coast Shire Council - 27th March 2007 - Back to News The round table was organised by Council’s Economic Development team and Agribusiness Gippsland, to look at the different issues affecting local farmers.
Council’s Economic Development Manager, Stephanie Symes said she was extremely happy with the results of the round table.
"There were some very lively discussions on a diverse range of issues," said Ms Symes.
"It was a great opportunity for people to share their thoughts and to hear a number of different perspectives on the issues."
Ms Symes said there were a variety of reasons the round table had been held.
"Agriculture is one of our major industries and one that we need to keep," said Ms Symes.
"Farmers are feeling the impact of rapidly rising land prices, the increase in population, the number of people buying lifestyle properties in the area, as well as the drought.
"The average age of our farmers is over 50 and many of these people don’t have anyone to take over from them when they retire," continued Ms Symes.
"In light of all these issues, we felt it was important to provide this opportunity and to look and see what the future may hold for our famers."
At the conclusion of the discussions, a number of areas were identified as warranting further investigation.
Rural Strategy:
- This included examination of local policies, building flexibility into the policies and the creation of a reference group.
Value Adding:
- Looking at locations for value adding industries and even the possible creation of precincts.
Water:
- Securing an adequate water supply to ensure the viability of farming.
Excision of small blocks:
- Subdividing larger rural blocks – analysing the pros and cons.
Rural rating strategy:
- Looking at alternative ways to rate rural properties.
"These are certainly some of the major issues facing our farmers," said Ms Symes.
"The round table also helped identify some areas where real opportunities existed.
"With value adding, we could focus on creating opportunities for industries that could process existing local produce. For example trying to build on the local dairy industry by encouraging cheese making," continued Ms Symes.
Ms Symes said it was not surprising that water emerged as a hot topic.
"Obviously everyone is feeling the effects of the drought," said Ms Symes.
"We normally have a high rainfall, which makes us a very desirable agriculture area.
"To preserve the value of our land, it is vitally important that we secure a water supply for our farmers."
The issue of subdividing land was also a contentious issue.
"For some farmers, the ability to sell of a small portion of their land is a way of generating income, either to fund improvements to their current business, or to act as a retirement fund," said Ms Symes.
"But subdivision of this type also takes valuable agricultural land out of production."
The round table was attended by Bass Coast farmers, Department of Primary Industries, Department of Sustainability and Environment, Regional Development Victoria, Agribusiness Gippsland and staff from Council’s Planning, Valuation and Economic Development teams.
Ms Symes thanked everyone who accepted the invitation to attend the round table.
"People were very generous with their time and their ideas," Ms Symes said.
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: news@gippsland.com
Related Articles- Future of Orbost Project strengthens water access, supporting agricultural innovation and long-term regional growth
The Future of Orbost Project supports farmers by clarifying water availability, facilitating licence transfers, and building resilience, driving innovation, productivity, diversification, and sustainable long-term growth in East Gippsland. - East Gippsland hosts Youth Agritech Expo showcasing farming futures and career pathways for young people on 17 September 2025
East Gippsland will host the Youth Agritech Expo, offering farm tours, hands-on experiences, and showcasing agricultural career pathways, technology, and innovation to inspire the next generation and build a skilled workforce. - 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. - Nature positive farming field day, sustainable practices, carbon insights, and soil management at Malabar farm
Join Jenny and Paul O'Sullivan at Malabar Farm on 20 November 2025 for a free Nature Positive Farming field day, exploring sustainable practices, greenhouse gas estimation, soil carbon, and carbon farming benefits. - Over 350 attended Youth Agritech Expo, experiencing hands-on innovation and future opportunities in modern farming industry
More than 350 people joined East Gippsland's Youth Agritech Expo, where students explored hands-on agricultural innovations, from drones to driverless tractors, sparking fresh excitement about farming's high-tech, diverse, and innovative future. - Have your say on key council plans, policies, and the future direction of South Gippsland through current engagement opportunities
South Gippsland Shire Council invites community feedback on key draft plans, policies, and the 2026/27 Budget, with in-person engagement opportunities and "Coffee with a Councillor" sessions in October. - Latrobe City Council seeks community feedback on the future of Moe Gardens Caravan Park as lease nears end
Latrobe City Council is inviting community feedback on the future of Moe Gardens Caravan Park, with the current operator's lease expiring in May 2026 under Crown Land Leasing Policy requirements for open and impartial processes. - Mallacoota community invited to share ideas for long-term future of Foreshore Holiday Park drop-in sessions on 10 and 13 April 2026
Mallacoota residents and park users are invited to informal drop-in sessions to share feedback, helping shape the Mallacoota Foreshore Holiday Park master plan and guide its future improvements. - Bass Coast Cultural Venues presents the 2026 Wonthaggi International Film Festival at The Union Theatre from 17- 19 April 2026
Bass Coast Cultural Venues presents the 14th Wonthaggi International Film Festival this April, showcasing powerful international stories, special screenings, Q&A sessions, and celebrating community at The Union Theatre. - Baw Baw Shire aquatic facilities future management decision announced
Baw Baw Council will continue current aquatic and leisure facility operations with YMCA Victoria for 12 months, ensuring service continuity while assessing future management and preparing for a future tender process. - 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 approves Draft Dust Suppression Seal Removal Policy for public consultation, allowing resident-funded sealing on 19 March 2026
Bass Coast Council has approved the Draft Dust Suppression Seal Removal Policy for consultation, allowing residents to fund permanent road sealing as aging dust suppressant seals are removed across 30 streets. - 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 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 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 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. - 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 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 releases first Q1 2025-26 Performance Report, highlighting progress, finances, and key Council Plan achievements
Bass Coast Shire Council’s first Q1 2025-26 Performance Report highlights strong progress on the Council Plan, financial surplus, capital projects, strategic documents, and community initiatives, reflecting transparency and good governance. - 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 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 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 Council begins $700,000 Inverloch coastal protection works to safeguard beach and community assets on 24 November 2025
Bass Coast Shire Council will start $700,000 Inverloch coastal protection works on 24 November, extending sandbag walls, repairing access, and safeguarding public land, community assets, and beachgoers. - 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 Shire Council asks residents to keep FOGO bins cardboard-free following updated recycling guidelines from April 2026
Bass Coast Council asks residents to keep cardboard out of FOGO bins from April 2026, ensuring high-quality compost, reducing contamination, and supporting efficient recycling and local environmental sustainability. - Bass Coast Shire Council urges MAV to demand transparency, accountability and community engagement in State planning decisions
Bass Coast Shire Council will urge MAV to demand greater transparency, accountability, and community consultation in State Government planning decisions, highlighting concerns over the Development Facilitation Program and local impacts. - Bass Coast Shire Council awards contract for new Thompson Reserve pavilion, boosting Inverloch sport and community facilities
Bass Coast Shire Council has awarded Kubale Constructions to build a modern Thompson Reserve pavilion, enhancing facilities, supporting local clubs, and promoting inclusive sport opportunities for women, girls and the community. - Bass Coast Mayor Rochelle Halstead recognised as Mary Rogers Award finalist for leadership, resilience, and mentoring women
Bass Coast Mayor Rochelle Halstead has been named a finalist for the 2025 Mary Rogers Award, recognising her leadership, resilience, community service, and mentoring of emerging female leaders in local government. - 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. - Bass Coast Shire Council joins Victorian councils urging review of mandatory separate kerbside glass recycling bin policy
Bass Coast Council joins 35 Victorian councils urging the State Government to review mandatory glass recycling bins, seeking flexibility, transparency, cost-effectiveness and alignment with existing Container Deposit Scheme initiatives. - Bass Coast Shire Council endorses 2026-2030 Climate Change Action Plan, strengthening its net zero emissions commitment
Bass Coast Council has endorsed Climate Action Priority Actions 2026–2030 following a mid-term review and community consultation, strengthening its commitment to net zero emissions, resilience and local climate leadership. - 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 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 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 Council seeks community feedback on updated rating strategy ensuring fair property rates distribution
Bass Coast Shire Council seeks community feedback on its updated Rating Strategy, ensuring fair distribution of rates across property types and considering a pensioner waste rebate before February 2026. - 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 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 Shire Council Draft Dogs in Public Places Guidelines community consultations open until 13 May 2026
Bass Coast Council has released Draft Dogs in Public Places Guidelines for consultation, supporting the Domestic Animal Management Plan with feedback open until 13 May 2026 to improve dog management. - Bass Coast Shire Council implements speed limit updates to improve road safety and reduce wildlife collisions
Bass Coast Shire Council is updating speed limits across the region, including area-wide and rural roads, to improve driver safety, reduce wildlife collisions, and align with Victoria’s Safe System approach. - Bass Coast wins National Award for Circular Economy Program driving sustainable local business innovation
Bass Coast Shire Council won the 2025 National Economic Development Award for its Circular Economy Business Accelerator Program, supporting local businesses to reduce waste, innovate sustainably, and embrace circular economy practices. - 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 leads National Recycling Week with 70% waste diversion, promoting circular economy practices
Bass Coast leads National Recycling Week, diverting 70% of waste from landfill and promoting reuse, recycling, and circular economy practices across the community. - Bass Coast Shire Council re-elected Cr Rochelle Halstead as Mayor and Cr Brett Tessari as Deputy Mayor
Bass Coast Shire Council has re-elected Cr Rochelle Halstead as Mayor and Cr Brett Tessari as Deputy Mayor, starting a new term guided by long-term plans and strategic priorities. - 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 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 Council releases Draft Budget 2026-27, inviting community feedback until 8 May 2026
Bass Coast Shire Council released its Draft Budget 2026-27 for consultation, outlining services and infrastructure plans, with community feedback sessions scheduled and submissions open until May 8, 2026. - Gippsland Water hosts Baw Baw pop-ups, inviting community feedback on future water planning and services on 18 April, 6 and 16 May 2026
Gippsland Water hosts Baw Baw pop-up events, inviting community feedback on future water services, planning, pricing, and infrastructure decisions. - 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. - 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. - Southern Rural Water invites community to have your say on future water services, pricing and sustainability
Southern Rural Water invites the community to help shape future water pricing and services, balancing cost, access, sustainability, and regional needs across southern Victoria. - Invest Bass Coast Forum with key speaker David Robertson to be held at RACV Inverloch Resort on 24 April 2026
Bass Coast Shire will host the Invest Bass Coast Forum on April 24, connecting investors and industry leaders to explore market trends, regional growth, development opportunities and economic outlook. - Third year of Bairnsdale sewer renewal project secures future wastewater system with innovative relining
Bairnsdale’s sewer renewal project enters year three, using CCTV inspections and trenchless relining to upgrade ageing pipes, reduce disruption, and improve reliability, with $650,000 annually invested and works guaranteed for 50 years. - Darren Chester meets new BRHS CEO Peter Abraham to discuss future opportunities for East Gippsland Healthcare
Darren Chester met new BRHS CEO Peter Abraham to discuss healthcare challenges, commend local innovations improving patient care, and strengthen collaboration to deliver high-quality, accessible health services across East Gippsland. - 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. - Latrobe City invites community input to shape the 2026/27 budget and future priorities, submit feedback by 17 November 2025
Latrobe City Council is seeking community input to help shape the 2026/27 Budget. Share your priorities via council's Have Your Say platform by 5pm, Monday 17 November 2025. - Darren Chester congratulates Glengarry Primary 2026 student leaders, inspiring future community, volunteer and civic leadership development
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester congratulated Glengarry Primary 2026 student leaders, encouraging them to embrace leadership, teamwork, and service as they develop skills to positively impact their community. - Entries open for 2026 Bass Coast Business Awards celebrating innovation, excellence and community success
Entries are open for the 2026 Bass Coast Business Awards, celebrating local business excellence across judged and People’s Choice categories, with applications closing 8 May and community voting closing 29 May 2026. - Community invited to join Project Reference Group shaping East Gippsland’s future aquatic strategy and facilities planning
East Gippsland community members are invited to join a Project Reference Group to help shape the new Aquatic Strategy, guiding future facility planning, investment, and service delivery across the shire. - West Gippsland CMA hosts hands-on workshop 'Carbon Farming - Know your number' at Leongatha office on 24 March 2026
Join local farmer Nick Dudley for a free, hands-on workshop in Leongatha on 24 March to calculate farm emissions, use carbon calculators, and explore productivity improvements. Registration required. - 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. - The Gurdies Winery offers scenic Bass Coast views, cool-climate wines and a welcoming cellar door for locals and visitors alike
The Gurdies Winery on Bass Coast offers stunning Western Port Bay views, cool-climate wines, a welcoming cellar door, modern winemaking facilities, and a popular venue for events and community gatherings. - Harman Wines: Sustainable Bass Coast vineyard blending cool-climate wines, fresh food, hospitality and rural charm
Harman Wines in Wattle Bank combines sustainable, off-grid practices with cool-climate wines, fresh seasonal food, and warm hospitality, creating a relaxed Bass Coast destination for family, friends, and wine lovers alike. - Gippsland Water launches pop-up events inviting Latrobe Valley residents to help shape future water services and planning decisions
Gippsland Water will host pop-up events across the Latrobe Valley, inviting community feedback to help shape future water services, pricing, and infrastructure planning. - South Gippsland farmers dig into practical carbon farming at Down to Earth field day
Thirty-five South Gippsland farmers explored carbon farming at Malabar Farm, learning practical ways to improve soil health, reduce emissions, and farm sustainably while sharing knowledge with peers. - 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. - Carbon Calculator Events for farm emissions, accounting, and carbon farming insights for farmers
Attend the free Carbon Calculator Events on 28 October and 11 November 2025 in Traralgon to learn carbon farming, accounting, and estimate your farm's emissions footprint. Registration required. - 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. - Danny O’Brien met residents across nine towns over two days, holding more than 20 discussions on their concerns for the shire
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. - 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. - Melina Bath statement wishes year 12 students across Eastern Victoria success in exams and future endeavours
Melina Bath wishes all Year 12 students in eastern Victoria good luck for exams, encouraging pride in achievements, resilience, and success in future studies, work, or apprenticeships. - Latrobe Health Assembly to continue, thanks to strong community support and new independent, community-owned future
Defunded in the 2025 State Budget, the Latrobe Health Assembly will continue as a leaner, community-owned organisation tackling local health and wellbeing challenges through collaboration and grassroots leadership. - Darren Chester urges more fuel reduction to protect Victorian communities from bushfires
Darren Chester urged increased fuel reduction on Victorian public land, warning unmanaged forests worsen bushfires, and criticised the native timber industry shutdown while praising volunteers and community resilience. - Baw Baw Shire Council seeks community feedback on draft 10-year open space strategy for future planning
Baw Baw Shire Council invites feedback on its draft Open Space Strategy, shaping a 10-year plan to guide investment, protect natural spaces, and enhance community wellbeing. Consultation closes Friday 3 October 2025. - Gippsland Water completes major Warragul sewer upgrade, boosting capacity and supporting town’s rapid growth and future reliability
Gippsland Water has completed a 1.5-kilometre Warragul sewer upgrade, increasing capacity, improving reliability, supporting population growth, and protecting the environment, including relocation of threatened local species during construction. - Buchan Recreation Reserve redevelopment delivers modern pavilion, change rooms and multi-purpose community hub for future generations
Buchan Recreation Reserve redevelopment delivers modern community pavilion and sports facilities, ensuring a safe, multi-purpose hub for generations, supported by local, state and federal government investment. - 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. - Cowes Foreshore Precinct Project begins, for safer, more accessible visitor experience from $9.6M shared investment
Work has begun on the $9.6 million Cowes Foreshore Precinct Project, delivering staged upgrades to create a safer, more accessible, pedestrian-friendly destination while supporting businesses and preserving Cowes' vibrant visitor appeal. - 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. - 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 Water warns dry conditions require following permanent water saving rules to protect community and future supply
East Gippsland Water urges residents to conserve water amid drying conditions, following Permanent Water Saving Rules to protect supplies, reduce pressure on catchments, and maintain community health and safety. - 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. - Join Omeo's visitor economy through tourism mapping and justice precinct masterplan vision sessions on 14 September 2025
Omeo visitor economy's future will be shaped through community sessions presenting the Tourism Ecosystem Mapping Report and Draft Justice Precinct Masterplan, highlighting heritage, recreation, and opportunities to attract investment. - East Gippsland Agricultural Sector Advisory Committee welcomes new members to strengthen engagement with farming
East Gippsland's Agricultural Sector Advisory Committee welcomed new members, enhancing council's connection with farming communities while tackling key priorities like renewable energy, drought resilience, mental health, and pest animal challenges. - Second round of South Gippsland community grants now open, with drop-in support sessions in various dates and locations
South Gippsland Shire Council’s second round of community grants is open until 31 March 2026, with seven drop-in sessions available to assist local clubs and groups with applications. - Second round of South Gippsland community grants now open, with drop-in support sessions in various dates and locations
South Gippsland Shire Council’s second round of community grants is open until 31 March 2026, with seven drop-in sessions available to assist local clubs and groups with applications. - Craig Watts Park playground in Neerim South closing temporarily for upgrades from 28 January to 31 March 2026
Craig Watts Park playground in Neerim South will be upgraded with new climbing, swing, and junior play zones, closing 28 January to 31 March 2026, as part of Council’s renewal program. - Baw Baw Shire Council returns 37 cultural artefacts to Lardil people in historic Mornington Island repatriation
Baw Baw Shire Mayor Danny Goss led a historic journey to Mornington Island, repatriating 37 cultural artefacts to the Lardil People, marking a significant step toward reconciliation and cultural heritage restoration. - Join the conversation and help shape South Gippsland and other council projects, programs and initiatives
Join the conversation this spring! Share your ideas on South Gippsland's future through community consultations, including Pre-Prep, Draft Plans, Governance Rules, and the 2026/27 Budget. - Darren Chester meets Latrobe City Council in Canberra to discuss Latrobe Valley priorities ahead of 2026-27 federal budget
Darren Chester met Latrobe City Council in Canberra to discuss economic transition, future jobs, infrastructure, and strategic investments for the Latrobe Valley ahead of the 2026–27 Federal Budget. - Baw Baw Shire Council endorses 10-Year Master Plan to preserve and enhance Drouin’s Alex Goudie Park
Baw Baw Council has endorsed a 10-year master plan for Drouin’s Alex Goudie Park, guiding future improvements, protecting its natural and cultural heritage, and enhancing amenities for community enjoyment. - 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. - Latrobe City Council enhances Seymour Street Car Park safety, lighting, access, and parking experience
Latrobe City Council upgrades Seymour Street Car Park with improved lighting, safety measures, CCTV, and future real-time signage, ensuring accessible, secure all-day parking and enhanced confidence for CBD workers and visitors. - West Gippsland CMA reflects on 2025, planning ahead and celebrating partnerships shaping healthy Gippsland landscapes with CMAs
West Gippsland CMA's final 2025 episode, CEO Marty Fuller reflects on achievements, partnerships and future projects, sharing how CMAs and communities work together to care for Country and healthy landscapes nationwide. - David Littleproud warns vegetable growers of crisis as compliance costs soar, confidence collapses and exits loom
Nationals leader David Littleproud warns Australia's food security is at risk, with two in five growers considering leaving amid rising compliance costs, financial strain, and Labor policies undermining farming viability.
|
|
