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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.

By news@gippsland - 31st March 2026 - Back to News

The Nationals Member for Gippsland South, Danny O’Brien, has been busy meeting with residents across nine towns over two days to discuss key local issues and priorities. Mr O’Brien held more than 20 face-to-face meetings with locals in Loch, Poowong, Nyora, Yarram, Woodside, Port Albert, Staceys Bridge, Devon North and Alberton.

Danny O’Brien etc recently meet with locals in Loch, Poowong, Nyora, Yarram, Woodside, Port Albert, Staceys Bridge, Devon North and Alberton to discuss state government matters

Community voices heard

Mr O’Brien said, "These visits are all about making sure people have the opportunity to raise their concerns directly and have their voices heard. I had more than 20 meetings over two days and spoke with a wide range of residents about the issues that matter most to them and their communities."

Mr O’Brien said cost-of-living pressures were a consistent theme, with many locals raising concerns about taxes and fuel supply, as well as ongoing power outages. "People are feeling the pinch, particularly when it comes to rising costs and uncertainty around fuel availability in regional areas and consistent blackouts in areas such as Woodside and Tarra Valley."

"I also heard firsthand about the challenges facing our farmers and the importance of ensuring they have the support they need to continue producing and contributing to our local economy," Mr O’Brien said.

Local infrastructure advocacy

Road conditions again featured prominently in discussions, along with interest in improving local infrastructure such as walking trails. "From road maintenance to planning matters and renewable energy projects, there was a strong desire for better consultation and practical outcomes that benefit local communities. I will be continuing to advocate strongly on these issues with the state government."

Mr O’Brien said he would continue his mobile office visits across Gippsland South in the coming weeks. "I’ll be visiting Leongatha, Ruby, Leongatha South, Loch Sport, Golden Beach, Seaspray, Giffard West and Stradbroke next and I encourage anyone who would like to meet with me to get in touch. Locals can contact Mr O’Brien’s office on 5144 1987 or email Danny O'Brien MP to make an appointment or seek assistance with state government matters.

Pictures from Danny O'Brien MP website.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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  East Gippsland Shire Council has launched a Canberra-focused spring tourism campaign, testing evidence-led marketing strategies while attracting shoulder-season visitors and supporting local businesses through targeted promotion.
• International partners visit Gippsland to explore energy diversification and regional development opportunities firsthand together
  One Gippsland hosted European partners for a five-day Gippsland visit, exploring energy diversification, regional development, workforce opportunities, infrastructure, agriculture and collaboration between Australian and European regions.
• East Gippsland simplifies footpath permit fees, reducing costs for businesses while supporting safe, vibrant, accessible town centres
  East Gippsland Shire Council has introduced a simplified, tiered Goods on Footpath permit fee structure, reducing costs for many businesses while supporting vibrant town centres and maintaining safe, accessible public spaces.
• East Gippsland launches disability network to strengthen community input on council projects, services and decisions
  East Gippsland Shire Council has launched the Disability Network, inviting people with disability, carers and organisations to help shape council decisions through accessible online and in-person community engagement.
• East Gippsland Council calls for ESVF levy reform ahead of November Victorian state election
  East Gippsland Shire Council is urging Victorian election candidates to reform the ESVF levy, citing disproportionate regional costs and seeking fairer, transparent emergency services funding.
• New Heart Morass watering infrastructure strengthens Gippsland Lakes wetland health and protects freshwater flows for future generations
  New watering infrastructure at Heart Morass enables controlled freshwater flows, reducing salinity and supporting wetland health, wildlife habitat and long-term resilience across the Gippsland Lakes.
• East Gippsland communities transform emergency water tanks into vibrant murals celebrating resilience, recovery and local stories
  East Gippsland communities have transformed emergency water tanks into vibrant murals celebrating resilience and recovery, with artworks completed at four locations and three more projects planned for Gipsy Point, South Buchan and Benambra.
• Gippsland Water's people's panel brings 50 customers together to help shape future plans and pricing priorities for the region
  Gippsland Water's People's Panel has brought together 50 randomly selected customers to help shape future plans and make recommendations influencing the corporation's 2028-33 Price Submission.
• Seven Gippsland farmers markets to explore for fresh produce, local treats and delicious weekend breakfasts
  Gippsland’s seven farmers markets offer fresh local produce, seafood, baked treats, artisan goods and coffee, making weekend mornings delicious opportunities to meet growers and discover regional flavours.
• Gippsland Water reports progress on major projects, renewable energy and community engagement commitments
  Gippsland Water’s 2026 Community Report highlights progress on major infrastructure projects, achieving 100 per cent renewable energy, emergency support initiatives and increased community engagement through its Sounding Board.
• Sealers Cove boardwalk reopens after five years, boosting Wilsons Promontory tourism ahead of September school holidays
  Sealers Cove boardwalk at Wilsons Promontory has reopened after almost five years, following storm damage in 2021. Danny O’Brien says the restored route will benefit walkers, visitors and local tourism operators.
• East Gippsland property owners receive 2026/27 rates notices as council sets average increase below state cap
  East Gippsland property owners have received 2026/27 rates notices, with Council’s average increase set at 2.5%. Payment options, objections and face-to-face support are available for residents