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Neighbourhood Watch Latrobe Crimewatch News, Latrobe Police Service Area September 2012Coming Events, Hot Spots, Crime Prevention Tips, Latrobe's Road Toll, Neighbourhood Watch Communities Crime Reports By Malcolm Lawrence - 4th October 2012 - Back to News Latrobe Crime Watch News
Latrobe Police Service Area
Neighbourhood Watch Creating Safer Communities
September 2012
IMPORTANT NUMBERS
Emergency 000, Mobiles 112, State the service you want ¡V Police, Ambulance or Fire.
Police: Boolarra 5169 6222, Churchill 5122 1790, Moe 5127 2222, Morwell 5131 5000
Traralgon 5174 0900
Crime Stoppers
1800 333 000
Neighbourhood Watch & Safer Communities
Unit ¡V Latrobe PSA, L/S/C Brett Godden, 5131 5085, 0400 050 749.
brett.godden@police.vic.gov.au
Facebook: Senior Constable Brett
Child Protection 13 12 78, Consumer Affairs 5116 5701, Dept Primary Industry 136186.
Dispute Settlement Centre 1800 658 528, Latrobe City 1300 367 700.
Nurse on Call 1300 606 024, Poisons Information 13 11 26,
VicRoads 131170
COMING EVENTS: OPEN INVITATION TO ALL LATROBE VALLEY RESIDENTS
Wednesday 26th September 2011 ¡V Churchill Town/CDCA Meeting - Churchill Community Hall - 7 pm Monday 1st October 2012 ¡V Moe/Newborough Town Meeting ¡V Moe RSL ¡V Albert Street, Moe ¡V 7pm
Tuesday 2nd October ¡V Traralgon Town Meeting - Traralgon Police Station, Kay St, Traralgon ¡V 7pm Wednesday 3rd October 2012 ¡V Morwell Town Meeting ¡V Morwell RSL ¡V Elgin Street, Morwell ¡V 7pm
Wednesday 10th October 2012 - Yallourn North Town Meeting¡VYallourn North Bowling Club¡V7.30 pm
Wednesday 18th October - Yinnar Town Meeting - Yinnar Hotel ¡V 7.30 pm
Wednesday 25th October 2011 ¡V Churchill Town/CDCA Meeting - Churchill Community Hall - 7 pm
Sunday 18th November ¡V NHW State Awards ¡V Venue to be announced.
HOT SPOT ¡V POLICE NEED THE PUBLIC¡¦S HELP TO LOWER THE ROAD TOLL.
LATROBE¡¦S ROAD TOLL ALREADY SIX HIGHER THAN 2011
¡§Just because we do not experience the volume of traffic present on metropolitan roads, it does not mean our roads are any safer. Country road users have to contend with roads that are unlit, heavily treed, unsealed and which are secluded and not heavily used. They have to cope with road hazards unique to country areas such as more fog, unsealed roads, and large numbers and varieties of wildlife like foxes, wombats and kangaroos.¡¨
¡§With the extremely wet winter we have had our roads are more slippery and dangerous than we are used to. It is very easy to lose traction on wet surfaces and on road edges and go off into the gravel.¡¨
¡§Residents need to take responsibility for their driving habits. Speed limits are the maximum and are not mandatory. Drivers must drive to the current conditions, always at a safe speed and within the limits,¡¨ Inspector West said.
Road deaths recorded for Latrobe so far this year are:
22nd January: two people lost their lives in a head on collision on the Princes Freeway at Morwell.
27th February: a Traralgon man died when he crashed his motor bike on the Tyers-Walhalla Road near Tyers.
29th June: a driver was killed in a single car crash on the Strzelecki Highway near Driffield.
5th August: a 60-year-old motorcyclist lost his life on Haunted Hills Rd Newborough when he lost control.
8th August: an accident on the Princes Freeway 200m west of Johnfield Drive, Moe claimed a single life.
22nd August: a 32 year-old Sale man died when the car he was driving collided with a truck east of Traralgon.
8th September: a truck driver lost his life when the truck he was driving collided with a tree at Traralgon.
After 158 country road deaths in 2011, police urge the public to slow down and take more care on roads and for parents to speak to their children and enforce the road safety message, remembering;
„h Drive within speed limits and slow down and adapt speed to the weather conditions.
„h Be aware of roadside workers and obey reduced speed limits in roadwork areas.
„h For longer trips drivers should take 15 min breaks every two hours and if possible, share the driving.
„h Fatigue is not just falling asleep; lack of attention reduces response times and slows reactions.
„h Country roads are hazardous, so adapt your driving. Be aware of trees, soft edges and wildlife.
„h The smallest distraction can be a killer. Never use a hand-held mobile phone for anything while driving. Avoid distractions in your car.
„h Passengers should speak up if they feel unsafe. Say something ¡V it¡¦s your life too.
EASTERN REGION DIVISION FIVE NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH AGM
On Tuesday 14th of August 2012, Eastern Region Division Five Neighbourhood Watch and Safer Community Group held its Annual General Meeting at Morwell¡¦s Divisional Police Headquarters, preceded by a very enjoyable dinner at the Morwell RSL, one of the long-time supporters of the local Neighbourhood Watch program.
Special guest, Acting Superintendent Glenn Weir (pictured left) spoke to the group about the work they do and how much it is appreciated by Victoria Police. He reiterated Victoria Police¡¦s, and in particular Division Five¡¦s, commitment and support for the VicPol-NHW partnership and thanked the divisional representatives for their ongoing participation in the program.
He then recognised the growth of the divisional NHW watch program into his own Police Service Area, Bass Coast, which covers the Bass Coast and South Gippsland Local Government Areas.
Divisional Area Manager, Ellen Jackson from Morwell, delivered her report, paying particular attention to the growth of the program across the whole division. She noted the growing partnership between Moe NHW and the Moe Trader¡¦s Association, particularly with the Clean Up Moe initiative.
Ellen highlighted the NHW State Awards won by the Division. Morwell¡¦s Graffiti Removal Program, led by Gerard Traynor and Betty Glass, won the David Lentin Award for the Neighbourhood Watch Group with the Most Acclaimed Program. The Latrobe Crime Watch News received a Certificate of Merit in the Communications category.
Ellen also thanked retiring long-time NHW stalwarts, Leanne and Albert Bateson, for their commitment to the Drouin program and wished the new Warragul/Drouin NHW group a long and successful partnership.
Ellen then announced she is stepping down from the position of Divisional Area Manager, but will continue to be an active member of Morwell NHW/SCG.
Police Community Liaison Officer and Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator, Leading Senior Constable Brett Godden, emotionally thanked Ellen for her service and commitment to the program before declaring all positions vacant.
Traralgon¡¦s Lyn Van Vondel was elected unopposed as Divisional Area Manager, as was Bill O¡¦Donnell from Yallourn North as Treasurer and Morwell¡¦s Gerard Traynor as Secretary.
AUGUST NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH/SAFER COMMUNITIES GROUP REPORTS
YALLOURN NORTH MEETING and CRIME REPORT
PREVIOUS ISSUES ¡V Nil ¡V No September meeting.
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 2 for August (1 July) - One offender charged with criminal damage as the result of a family violence incident. Overnight 28th August offenders broke the window at the front of a residence in Third St. The marble used was possibly launched via a slingshot and is possibly one a series of similar offences.
THEFT (OTHER) - 1 for August (1 July) - The chain and lock from a gas cylinder cage at Yallourn North Primary was stolen sometime between 2nd and 7th August.
CHURCHILL and DISTRICT MEETING and CRIME REPORT (INCLUDES JEERALANG)
ISSUES AUGUST ¡V Nil
ASSAULTS - 4 for August (6 July) - Three offenders charged and all came to notice as the result of family violence incidents. Police are making follow up enquiries about a stabbing in Amaroo Dr on 16th August.
ARSON - 2 for August (Nil July) - Overnight 23rd August offenders set a bin alight at the Hazelwood Shopping Centre. Police are investigating a fire in the toilet block of Glendonald Park on 26th August.
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 7 for August (6 July) - Three offenders charged. A phone box in Churinga Dr had the glass panel smashed on 3rd August. A fishing sinker was fired at a window of a residence in Mc Donald Way, and is possibly linked to similar incidents in Morwell, Moe and Traralgon.
BURGLARY - 4 for August (Nil July) - A rural property in Hazelwood South was broken into twice through an unlocked door. Police advise all residents to lock homes whilst they are away from the property.
THEFT FROM MOTOR VEHICLE - 5 for August (1 July) - All were committed in residential areas with four in driveways. Three of the vehicles were unlocked with a handbag, purse, binoculars, a First Aid kit and coins stolen. Four were committed overnight 19th August in the Churinga Dr/Ikara Way/Euroka Cres area.
THEFT - 3 for August (4 July) - An iPod and mobile phone were amongst items stolen. Two gas cylinders were stolen from a cage beside the Churchill Hotel overnight 5th August.
ISSUES RAISED SEPTEMBER ¡V Meeting not held at time of publishing.
MORWELL MEETING and CRIME REPORT(INCLUDES TYERS)
PREVIOUS ISSUES - Youths drinking in vehicles in the Crinigan Rd Reserve near the BBQ area ¡V passed to Morwell for tasking.
SEX OFFENCES - Two offenders charged with offences of sexual nature. Police are investigating another incident that involved a male youth pinching a female on the buttock.
ROBBERY - 2 for August (1 July) - Three offenders charged. Police are investigating an armed robbery at Aldi Supermarket on 21st August. Offender is described as male, Caucasian, wearing a grey/green hoodie, blue or black tracksuit pants with a white stripe down the leg. At the time of the offence he had a white & blue tea towel across his face with aviator sunglasses.
ASSAULT - 20 for August (28 July) - 16 offenders charged with one offender facing two counts of assault police. Police are following up suspects in relation to two other assaults.
ARSON - 1 for August (4 July) - One offender charged with criminal damage by fire.
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 28 for August (23 July) - Ten offenders charged. A large number of the damages were committed in residential areas with vehicle and house windows the targets with bricks or rocks thrown at or through them. There were a small number of damages which appear to have been committed with the use of a slingshots and marbles fired at windows.
BURGLARY - 16 for August (9 July) - Storage sheds in Minchington Rd and Saskia Way had locks broken or cut overnight 28th August. A number of the locks were left behind by the unknown offenders. It is not known what, if anything, has been stolen. The front window of S&J Cycles was smashed and two mountain bikes stolen. The bikes stolen were a SLAYER mountain bike and an ALTITUDE mountain bike.
THEFT FROM MOTOR CAR - 9 for August (13 July) - One offender charged with attempted TFMV. Overnight 2nd August three vehicles were entered in Comans St, possibly by three unknown offenders who were sighted running away from one scene. All three vehicles were unlocked with a torch and coins stolen. Between 9th and 13th August two sets of number plates were stolen from vehicles parked in a car park in Princes Dr.
THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE - 1 for August (3 July) - One offender charged with the motor bike recovered.
THEFT - 15 for August (9 July) - Three offenders charged with theft with one facing two counts. On 11th and 13th August an unknown offender put fuel in a vehicle at a service station in Vestan Dr. On both occasions the offender failed to pay for the fuel and on each occasion the vehicle used had stolen number plates fitted to the vehicle.
ISSUES RAISED SEPTEMBER ¡V No meeting held due to severe weather event ¡V no issues notified.
MOE/NEWBOROUGH MEETING and CRIME REPORT
PREVIOUS ISSUES - Graffiti on road sign on Hernes Oak overpass ¡V Passed to VicRoads for attention ¡V has now been cleaned.
ROBBERY - Nil for August (1 July)
ASSAULT - 17 for August (23 July) - 12 offenders charged with one offender facing five counts after a family violence incident early in the month. Police are still investigating two incidents where shots were fired at a residence in Hennessey St overnight on 2nd August and 31st July.
ARSON - Nil for August (3 July)
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 20 for August (15 July) - Ten offenders charged. The offender charged with five assaults will face two counts of criminal damage. Overnight 12th August palings were ripped from two residential fences by drunken youths fighting in Keith Ave.
BURGLARY - 6 for August (8 July) - All burglaries were committed in the residential area. Rear doors and rear windows were the main points of entry with TVs, DVD players and cash stolen
THEFT FROM MOTOR CAR - 3 for August (16 July) - A chainsaw was stolen from the rear of ute in Turfside car park on 2nd August. A set of registration plates were stolen from a vehicle in Wirraway St overnight on 12th August. A handbag stolen from an unlocked vehicle parked in the driveway of a residence in Scorpio Dr on 16th August was recovered when the victim pursued the offenders into a nearby park. The handbag was recovered without the purse, which was inside.
THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE - Nil for August (5 July)
THEFT (OTHER) - 6 for August (17 July) - Three offenders with the offender charged with assaults and criminal damage also facing two counts of theft. Sometime between 16th and 20th August a council rubbish bin was stolen from the yard of an address in Queen St.
ISSUES RAISED SEPTEMBER ¡V Nil
TRARALGON MEETING and CRIME REPORT
(INCLUDES GLENGARRY, TOONGABBIE, HAZELWOOD NORTH, TRARALGON SOUTH)
PREVIOUS ISSUES ¡V Nil.
ROBBERY - 2 for August (Nil July) - Two offenders charged with robbery during August.
ASSAULT - 29 for August (29 July) - 25 offenders charged with some facing multiple charges including one offender facing three counts of assault police. Police are following up suspects in relation to an assault in Kay St outside Ryan¡¦s Hotel, as well as incidents in Gathercole Dr and Taylor Cres.
ARSON - 11 for August (5 July) - One offender charged with 14 criminal damage by fire offences. Police are investigating fires that were lit in Cameron St, Thexton St, Maskrey St, Watkins Crt, Wright St, Princes Hwy, Hotham St, Seymour St, Post Office Pl, Princes St and Shakespeare St.
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 39 for August (45 July) - 13 offenders charged with eight coming to notice as the result of family violence incidents. Overnight 4th August vehicles were damaged in Coster St and Field Crt. In Field Crt a motorcycle was pushed over with a plant pot dropped on the cycle before the unknown offender tried to set the seat alight. In Coster St a vehicle window was smashed using a solar light stolen from the yard.
BURGLARY - 6 for August (18 July) - Overnight 1st August a shop in Seymour St was broken into with the front door forced. The business had already been burgled and on this occasion a small safe was removed. This burglary may be linked to other burglaries on commercial premises, which are being investigated by police.
THEFT FROM MOTOR VEHICLE - 7 for August (12 July) - One offender charged with attempted theft from motor vehicle. One of the thefts occurred in a residential street with a single number plate being stolen (SEZ02) from a vehicle at Tyers. A fuel card and debit card were stolen from an unlocked vehicle outside a residential address overnight in Gunyah Gr.
THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE - 4 for August (3 July) - One of the vehicles stolen has been recovered. A 2012 Polaris Quad bike XP550 red was stolen from the Traralgon Motorcycle club overnight 2nd August.
LJH666 ¡V 2008 Mazda sedan black stolen during a burglary in Argyle St between 25th and 27th August and EZL962 ¡V 1989 Nissan Patrol blue ¡V stolen from Franklin St 16th August, remain outstanding.
THEFT - 6 for August (14 July) - Four offenders charged with one facing two counts from the one theft spree. A small truck or trailer would have been required to steal two ton of wood from an address in Leila St overnight 15th August.
ISSUES RAISED SEPTEMBER ¡V Hoon driving in the Rialto Court area ¡V Information passed to Latrobe Highway Patrol.
BOOLARRA/YINNAR DISTRICT CRIME REPORT
ASSAULTS - 1 for August (1 July) - One offender charged as the result of a family violence incident.
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 1 for August (1 July) - Overnight 9th August offenders threw small sockets through a window of a residence in Alfred Dr.
THEFT FROM MOTOR VEHICLE - 1 for August (Nil July) - Sometime between 19th and 29th August offenders stole both registration plates from a vehicle in a car park of the Commercial Hotel, Boolarra.
NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH AUSTRALASIA¡¦s COMMUNITY SAFETY SURVEY
NHWA is giving you a chance to participate in the first ever Australasian Community Safety Survey. The survey seeks to obtain information from you as an individual currently involved with Neighbourhood Watch in Australia and Neighbourhood Support in New Zealand. Your valuable contribution will assist us by giving us an understanding of who is currently involved in Neighbourhood Watch and Neighbourhood Support; if we are currently meeting your needs; and how we can improve in the future. To participate in the survey go to NHWA¡¦s web page at http://nhwa.com.au and click on News or click on the following link;
http://www.nhwa.com.au/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=89:community-safety-survey&catid=3:latest-news&Itemid=101
CRIME PREVENTION TIPS ¡V FENCES
Make sure fences are properly maintained. They should provide good visibility of the house to the casual observer. Trellis extensions do provide extra privacy, however a high fence is also good for the burglar to hide behind. Driveway and access gates should be secured. Fences not properly maintained can cause injury to visitors on your land and make you susceptible to litigation should injury occur. Poorly maintained fences are not suitable for containing your pets, not to mention our most precious assets, our small children. If your fences are in need of repair arrange quotes and speak to your neighbour with whom the cost of a new fence is shared.
LOCAL LAWS OFFICERS ARE AUTHORISED UNDER MANY ACTS
Latrobe City¡¦s Local Laws Team is responsible for enforcing a wide range of Local Laws and Legislation, including State Acts and Regulations and the provisions of Council¡¦s Local Law No. 2.
At a very basic level, Local Law No. 2 provides for the peace, order, good government and well-being of all people in the Municipality.
It covers traffic regulation and road use including parking; protection and preservation of infrastructure and safe access to council land; protects and preserves the amenity, safety and condition of parks, reservations, recreation and residential areas.
Other purposes are to prevent visual clutter including by traders on footpaths so as not to compromise the safety of pedestrians; controls and prevents behaviour which is a nuisance, detrimental to health and safety or which affects the enjoyment of recreational or other facilities, including alcohol consumption in public places;
Local Law No. 2 also ensures the safe and efficient management and control of dangerous and unsightly land, smoke emissions, advertising, camping, the environment, the keeping of animals and birds, waste disposal, recycling, drainage, and public health including smoking in Municipal properties.
Apart from enforcing the provisions of Local Law No 2, Local Laws Officers are authorised under the following Acts, as well as any other Act, Regulation or Local Law which relates to functions and powers of Council;
- Country Fire Authority Act 1958
- Emergency Management Act 1986
- Environmental Protection Act 1970
- Impounding of Livestock Act 1994
- Domestic Animals Act 1994
- Local Government Act 1989
- Road Management Act 2004
- Road Safety Act 1986
- Road Safety (General) Regulations 2009
- Summary Offences Act 1966
HOT SPOT ¡V POLICE NEED THE PUBLIC¡¦S HELP
ARMED ROBBERIES at ALDI, FREEDOM FUELS and MCDONALDS MORWELL.
On Tuesday 21st August a male (pictured at 1) entered the Aldi Supermarket, Morwell. The offender threatened the store¡¦s checkout attendant with a small knife. The male offender is described as being approximately 25 to 30 years, around 180 centimetres tall and wearing a grey/green plain hoodie, dark coloured tracksuit pants with a white stripe down the side, white runners, dark glasses and a tea towel over his face. The male demanded money and was given the cash till, which he then placed into a green recycle shopping bag and headed down Princes Drive.
Latrobe Criminal Investigation Unit is also investigating an armed robbery which occurred on Monday 17th September at Freedom Fuels, Morwell. According to police a man entered the premises armed with a knife and demanded the staff member give him money. After being provided with a small quantity of cash he left the premises on foot. The male is described as wearing a balaclava and dark clothes.
On Wednesday 19th September two males have entered the McDonalds store in Morwell armed with a meat cleaver and a knife. The males have made demands for cash and after being provided with cash have left the premises. The first male who was armed with the meat cleaver is described as being approximately 190 centimetres tall with an average build, wearing a black hooded jumper with a skeleton motif on the front and back with dark pants. The second male who was armed with a knife is described as being approximately 177 centimetres tall wearing a black balaclava.
Police urge anyone who may have information related to these incidents to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppers.com.au or ring Latrobe Criminal Investigation Unit on 5131 5049.
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: malcolml@dcsi.net.au
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Latrobe City Council is urging residents to stay alert during swooping season, avoid nesting areas where possible, check Victoria’s Swooping Bird Map and take precautions when walking outdoors. - Liberals and Nationals to audit Latrobe Valley coal overlays to unlock land for housing and industrial development
The Liberals and Nationals will audit Latrobe Valley coal overlays to identify outdated restrictions, potentially unlocking land for housing and industrial development while retaining protections where mine safety and ground stability remain at risk. - Flight Test Range Command Centre opens at Latrobe Airport, boosting Gippsland's drone and aerospace industries and economic diversification
A new Flight Test Range Command Centre at Latrobe Regional Airport will support drone and aerospace innovation, attract investment and create jobs across Gippsland's emerging Advanced Air Mobility sector. - Flight test command centre opens, strengthening Latrobe's role in Australia's advanced aviation innovation sector and creating new opportunities
Latrobe's new Flight Test Range Command Centre has opened at Latrobe Regional Airport, supporting advanced aviation research, drone technology, investment, manufacturing growth and skilled jobs across the region. - Stallholder applications open for 2026 Latrobe City Children's Expo connecting families and community services
Stallholder applications have opened for the 2026 Latrobe City Children's Expo, offering organisations and entertainers the chance to connect with thousands of local families during National Children's Week celebrations. - New Flight Test Command Centre opens at Latrobe Airport, boosting advanced aviation jobs, investment and innovation
A new Flight Test Range Command Centre at Latrobe Regional Airport has opened, supporting advanced aviation research, attracting investment, strengthening local businesses and creating new jobs across Gippsland. - Australia Post invests in Morwell parcel facility, boosting Latrobe City jobs, economic diversification and future growth opportunities
Australia Post has begun construction of a 10,000-square-metre parcel facility in Morwell, consolidating regional operations, supporting local jobs and strengthening Latrobe City’s economic diversification and investment opportunities. - Nationals target Premier Ben Carroll over undelivered Latrobe Valley manufacturing jobs and broken election promises
The Nationals accused Premier Ben Carroll of failing to deliver 500 promised SEA Electric manufacturing jobs in Morwell, criticising Labor’s Latrobe Valley transition and economic record. - Martin Cameron seeks government answers over delays threatening Latrobe Magnesium's commercial project and regional investment
Martin Cameron is pressing the Victorian government over delays affecting Latrobe Magnesium’s commercial project, warning investment and hundreds of Latrobe Valley jobs could be lost. - Melina Bath accuses Labor of failing to curb illicit tobacco crime and escalating violence across regional Victoria
The Nationals have criticised Labor over ongoing illicit tobacco crime, citing alleged abductions, violence, intimidation and suspected illegal stores, while questioning Victoria’s tobacco licensing scheme effectiveness. - Martin Cameron backs Regional road funding to fix dangerous, neglected Latrobe Valley roads and bridges
A proposed $288 million Country Roads and Bridges program would give Latrobe City $1.5 million annually for four years to repair and upgrade local roads and bridges. - Regional Development $750,000 investment expands employment and education support for 120 Latrobe Valley young people through 2028
The Victorian government is investing a further $750,000 in the Ladder Step Up Latrobe Valley Program, supporting 120 young people with employment, education, training and independence opportunities through 2028. - Martin Cameron renews call for PSOs at Morwell and Moe Stations, citing rising Gippsland public transport crime figures
Morwell MP Martin Cameron has renewed calls for PSOs at Morwell and Moe stations, citing a 49 percent increase in Gippsland public transport crime between 2021 and 2024. - Darren Chester says Gippsland’s 15 suspected illicit tobacco store closures highlight organised crime concerns and calls for tobacco excise reform
Gippsland MP Darren Chester says 15 suspected illicit tobacco store closures highlight organised crime concerns, advocating an 80 percent tobacco excise cut alongside stronger enforcement to combat the black market. - Darren Chester says Gippsland’s 15 suspected illicit tobacco store closures highlight organised crime concerns and calls for tobacco excise reform
Gippsland MP Darren Chester says 15 suspected illicit tobacco store closures highlight organised crime concerns, advocating an 80 percent tobacco excise cut alongside stronger enforcement to combat the black market. - Hazelwood North CFA to receive long-awaited new station under Nationals and Liberals' Latrobe Valley infrastructure commitment
The Nationals and Liberals have pledged a new three-bay Hazelwood North CFA station, replacing inadequate facilities and supporting volunteers through increased regional infrastructure funding. - Mobile Service Centres bringing government support across South Gippsland communities an August and September
Australian government Mobile Service Centres will visit 12 South Gippsland communities, offering Medicare, Centrelink, myGov and Veterans’ Affairs assistance, with accessible facilities and Wi-Fi. - East Gippsland Shire Council consults service street businesses on proposed Bairnsdale taxi rank relocation and Nicholson street mall improvements
East Gippsland Shire Council is consulting Service Street businesses on a proposed Bairnsdale taxi rank relocation, while Nicholson Street Mall upgrades aim to improve safety and amenity. - The Nationals blame Labor government after 84 more jobs cut at Maryvale paper mill in Latrobe Valley
Nationals MP Martin Cameron blamed the Victorian Labor government after Opal announced 84 job cuts at Maryvale, arguing forestry policy and timber supply failures caused ongoing workforce losses. - East Gippsland Council introduces free Payble online service offering ratepayers flexible, convenient and automatic payment options for rates
East Gippsland Council has introduced Payble, a free, secure online service allowing ratepayers to automate payments, choose flexible schedules, check balances and manage rates conveniently. - Gippsland commuters stranded after V/Line services end early, prompting calls for reliable regional rail services
Melina Bath criticised Gippsland rail disruptions after AFL fans were stranded following an early service cutoff, calling for reliable regional transport and promising 1,110 additional seats on Traralgon and Bairnsdale services. - Live and Loud at GPAC brings AFL Grand Final action, family fun and entertainment to Traralgon on 26 September 2026
Latrobe City Council will host Live and Loud at GPAC on September 26, featuring family activities, entertainment, a ticketed musical-acrobat performance and free live screening of the 2026 AFL Grand Final. - Wellington Shire Council retains in-house library service following review confirming best value for community needs
Wellington Shire Council has endorsed the outcome of its Wellington Libraries Service Review, confirming library services will continue to be delivered as is. - Moe Town Hall seeks resident organisation to activate historic venue through regular community arts programs until 30 September 2026
Latrobe City Council has opened expressions of interest for an organisation to establish an ongoing residency at Moe Town Hall, delivering regular arts, cultural and community activities while keeping the venue accessible. - Cr John White recognised for 10 Years of dedicated service representing East Gippsland communities on council
East Gippsland Councillor John White has been recognised for 10 years of service, including two terms as Mayor, advocating for local priorities and representing communities across government levels. - Baw Baw Employment Expo returns this September to connect job seekers with local employers and training providers
Baw Baw Employment Expo returns September 30, connecting job seekers with local employers, vacancies and training providers. The free event also offers resume support, networking opportunities, industry insights, coffee vouchers and lunch. - Nationals and Liberals pledge PSOs at Morwell and Moe Stations, mobile CCTV trailers and 24-Hour Moe Police Station reopening
The Nationals and Liberals have pledged PSOs at Morwell and Moe stations, mobile CCTV across the Latrobe Valley, and restoring Moe Police Station to 24-hour operations under their community safety plan. - Moe Inline Hockey Championships secure five-year council funding, expected to boost $15M into local economy through visitor spending
Latrobe City Council will provide $100,000 over five years to support Moe’s Australian Inline Hockey Club Championships, expected to generate $15 million locally through visitor spending and accommodation. - Darren Chester says Labor's national firearms buyback unfairly targets law-abiding regional firearm owners instead of addressing crime and security
Nationals representatives Gemma Rendell, Darren Chester and Bridget McKenzie joined East Gippsland firearm owners in Bairnsdale, opposing Labor's buyback and further restrictions while supporting lawful firearm use in regional communities. - Melina Bath seeks Labor explanation on Gippsland children face specialist dental service cuts, longer waits and costly travel for treatment
Melina Bath says Gippsland children face longer waits after regional pediatric dental services were cut, forcing families to travel to Melbourne for specialist treatment. - Labor invests $120,000 to modernise Traralgon Library with new study pods and improved community spaces
Harriet Shing joined Latrobe City Mayor Cr Gibson and councillors to announce a $120,000 library upgrade, jointly funded by government and council
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