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Morwell Parklands Preschool gets $500,000 grant from Victorian state government 'Building Blocks' program

The Victorian Government is making sure young children have access to the best kinder facilities with hundreds of projects to upgrade and improve learning environments while supporting local jobs across Victoria.

By news@gippsland - 14th September 2021 - Back to News

Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing today announced that Parklands Preschool in Morwell has been given $500,000 in funding to upgrade amenities and refurbishments from the first round of grants in the $30 million Building Blocks - Refurbishment and Minor Works program.

This grants stream provides funding for upgrades and minor expansions to early learning facilities, or investment in IT equipment for not for profit, funded organisations offering a three and four-year-old kindergarten program

Refurbishing the school facilities

The concept for this project would be to refurbish the underutilised community room and office space attached to the Preschool, to provide an additional playroom with bathroom facilities, office space and a storeroom. This project would allow the Preschool to provide additional Programs including three-year-old Kindergarten and supported Playgroups from the site.

In total, $12 million worth of grants will go towards 105 projects at kinders across the state. Forty-seven projects will receive grants of up to $500,000 for major works and refurbishments, while 58 centres will receive grants of up to $50,000 for minor works and refurbishments.

Funding in this round will also help boost local economies by supporting more than 180 jobs in construction and associated industries. Building Blocks Grants is a streamlined overarching funding scheme that supports early childhood providers with new and existing infrastructure and facilities for eligible three and four-year-old kindergarten services.

Expanding the kindergarten facilities across the state

In an Australian-first, the Government is investing almost $5 billion this decade to provide three-year-old children with access to an additional year of funded kindergarten programs.

From 2022, three-year-old children across the state will have access to at least five hours of kindergarten. Services will then scale up their hours to reach the full 15-hour program by 2029.

As part of the Three-Year-Old Kindergarten roll-out, the Victorian Budget 2021/22 has invested $1.68 billion to build and expand kindergarten facilities across the state over this decade.

Investment to make positive outcome

Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing said, "Our work goes on to invest in modern, accessible and fit-for-purpose facilities for children and young people across the Valley. This funding will make a really positive difference to local kids, their families and the educators who work so hard to help every child to reach their full potential."

For more information about Building Blocks Grants, visit building blocks grants - improvement.

Pictures fromLatrobe City website.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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• More axed jobs to come in agriculture research and development leaving Victorian farmers less productive and sustainable
  Victorian farmers face less service delivery after the Agriculture Minister refused to guarantee today the Labor government won't make more job cuts at Agriculture Victoria.
• Timber innovation boost of $219.5M will build confidence for at-risk Victorian by creating jobs and investment sustainable technologies
  A $219.5 million boost for innovation and research in Australia's forestry sector today is a badly needed vote of confidence in Victorian jobs that State Labor is hellbent on destroying.
• Rebuild opportunity for Victoria's broken mental health system will be missed if Labor government refuses to support crucial reforms
  An opportunity to rebuild Victoria's broken mental health system will be missed if the State Government refuses to support crucial reforms that will unlock thousands of extra workers for the exhausted and under-resourced workforce.
• Latrobe Valley Blue Hydrogen project gets $2.98M support from federal government and Latrobe City Council
  Latrobe City Council welcomes the federal government's $2.98 million commitment to the Latrobe Valley Blue Hydrogen project by Zero Degrees Rosella.
• Chelle Destefano of Wonthaggi gets Federal Regional Arts Fund Project grant strengthen artistic and creative practice
  Funding that will provide opportunities for artists and arts workers to cultivate creative community.
• The Andrews Labor government invests $5.7 million for new social housing homes in Drouin and Morwell
  Government investment to provide support housing for the less advantaged people.
• Anglicare Victoria continues to supporting young people in Latrobe Valley stay away from crime via Youth Crime Prevention Grants program
  Through the Andrews Labor Government Youth Crime Prevention Grants program (YCPG), Anglicare Victoria has been awarded $350,000 to continue helping young people find pathways away from offending.
• Federal government provides $131.8M for local road maintenance in West and Central Gippsland under the Roads to Recovery funding
  Local road maintenance in Monash will receive a boost thanks to funding under the Australian government's Roads to Recovery Program.
• Andrews Labor government delivers Australia's first offshore wind farms to drive regional investment, slash emissions and create jobs
  The Andrews Labor government will deliver Australia's first offshore wind farms with a strong plan to drive regional investment, slash emissions and create jobs.
• East Gippsland gets $2M through Regional Connectivity Program to improve mobile voice and data connectivity
  The Federal Member for Gippsland has welcomed over $2 million of funding in this year's budget to improve connectivity in East Gippsland, in partnership with Telstra.
• Latrobe Regional Gallery in Morwell plans large exhibition to celebrate 50th birthday
  Exhibition to be held in celebrating Latrobe Regional Gallery's 50th birthday.
• Longer hours for early voting centres in Morwell, Traralgon, Sale, Bairnsdale and Lakes Entrance for 2022 Federal Election
  Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester is predicting record numbers of pre-polling as early voting centres open today (Monday) across Gippsland.
• Federal government will fund $182 million of road and rail works in Gippsland during 2022-23
  Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester (pictured) says the Federal Government will fund $182 million worth of road and rail work in the region during the 2022-23 financial year.
• Andrews Labor government has neglected our country road and bridge infrastructure and cut funding to the bone
  Government's plan to cut the speed limit across our country's road network.
• Andrews Labor Government finally taking a limited approach to lockdown and reduce damage to regional communities
  Labor government finally taking limited approach to lockdown.
• Outrageous proposed laws by Andrews government allows Premier to lockdown without warning and if no pandemic disease in Victoria
  New legislation before the Victorian Parliament is seeking to permanently enshrine government over-reach into the lives and livelihoods of regional Victorians.
• Great disappointment for Latrobe Valley from Andrews Labor government state budget 2022/2023 budget says Russell Northe
  Member for Morwell Russell Northe said the 2022/2023 state government Budget would be met with great disappointment by many within the Latrobe Valley.
• Andrew's Labor government wastes big advertising dollars ahead of looming City Loop shutdown and union strikes
  Andrews government's misuse of taxpayers money, spending it to campaigns to make him look good instead of spending it on important infrastructures.
• Andrews Labor Government still won't roll it out rapid antigen testing to help revive major events
  Andrews government still not giving a plan to end the uncertainty of lockdown.
• Russell Northe questions Andrews Labor government Latrobe Valley transition plan as Loy Yang A set now to close from 2040
  Member for Morwell Russell Northe questioned the state government as to why they have failed to develop a transition plan in response to the closure and future closure of power stations in the Latrobe Valley.
• Call to federal government to extend funding for the HeadtoHelp (H2H) program in Gippsland
  Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester is calling on the Federal Government to extend funding for the HeadtoHelp (H2H) program in Gippsland.
• Darren Chester urges all government levels to fund redevelopment of Latrobe City Sports and Entertainment Stadium in Morwell
  Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester is urging all levels of government to work together and fund the redevelopment of the Latrobe City Sports and Entertainment Stadium in Morwell.
• Masterful performance by Seaspray athletes at Victorian Masters Championships 2022 in Lorne
  Seaspray Surf Life Saving Club members aged 35-73 competed at Lorne SLSC and the local community.
• Draft statement of planning policy submitted by Bass Coast Shire Council for Distinctive Areas and Landscapes Program from Victorian government
  Bass Coast Shire Council will lodge a submission with the Department of Environment, Land Water and Planning (DELWP) on the draft Statement of Planning Policy, outlining its concerns.
• Andrews Labor government and Greens block changes for better protections against farm trespass in Victoria
  Farmers won't be better protected against illegal and traumatic farm trespass crime unless amendments to on-the-spot fine laws are passed in the Victorian Parliament.
• Omeo Rodeo gets $170,800 funding for facility upgrades from federal Bushfire Recovery Local Economic Recovery Program
  Omeo Rodeo has modernised its facilities after receiving Federal Government funding.
• Federal government backs largest indoor Barramundi aquaculture farm at Latrobe Valley with $30M funding
  The Latrobe Valley will become home to the world's largest indoor barramundi aquaculture farm with a $30 million boost from the federal government.
• Mallacoota Gun Club gets $9000 for new solar power system from federal government funding
  Funding for the re-establishment of the facility.
• Wonthaggi Guide Park redevelopment gets $700,000 from Sports and Recreation Victoria and $350,000 from Growing Suburbs Fund
  Work is set to get underway on the redevelopment of Guide Park in Wonthaggi, which will see the creation of a regional scale playspace for the community.
• Andrews Labor government still delay on-the-spot fines for farm trespass
  On-the-spot fines for activists who trespass on Victorian farms and threaten the safety of farm families still aren't in place.
• Andrews Labor government $6 billion over runs on West Gate Tunnel and Melbourne Metro projects would go a long way to fixing Gippsland roads
  Plan to reduce speed limits on rural roads without increased spending.
• Latrobe City Council calls government to back recovery of Traralgon Showgrounds community groups from 2021 storm and flood event
  Calling on the State and Federal Governments to back a plan to help community groups based at Traralgon Recreation Reserve and Showgrounds.
• TAFE Gippsland gets $4 million upgrade from 'TAFE Asset Maintenance Fund' to cater for growing enrolments at Warragul Campus
  Warragul students will soon move into new state-of-the-art facilities at TAFE Gippsland, funded by the Andrews Labor Government.
• Sale Cinema gets $35,000 funding from federal Supporting Cinema's Retention Endurance and Enhancement of Neighbourhoods program
  A Gippsland independent cinema has received a financial boost thanks to Federal Government SCREEN Fund.
• Andrews Labor government dragged kicking and screaming to act on farm trespassing in Victoria
  On-the-spot fines to protect farmers will be introduced to the state parliament.
• Tambo Waste gets $993,000 from federal Recycling Modernisation fund to improve materials recycling facility in Bairnsdale
  A Gippsland business will upgrade its facilities to improve recycling capabilities thanks to Federal Government funding.
• Baw Baw Shire and Latrobe City Council get extra $13,200 from state government 'Municipal Emergency Resourcing Program'
  Eastern Victorian Councils will receive more funding to help them prepare for and respond to emergencies thanks to a funding boost from the Andrews Labor Government.
• Orbost Tennis Club gets to redevelop with $324,000 funding from Black Summer Bushfire Recovery grants program
  Orbost Tennis Club secured funding for development.
• Department of Veterans Affairs Gold Card can apply for $250 Power Saving Bonus from Victorian government until 31 January 2022
  Calling on the eligible residents to send their application for the rebates they can receive as power saving bonus from the government.
• Cowes Cultural and Community Centre gets $5M federal funding from Building Better Regions Program
  Federal Government's Building Better Regions Program, for the construction of the Cowes Cultural and Community Centre.
• Andrews Labor government all quiet on planning for Traralgon highway bypass
  Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester says it's critical the Andrews Government accelerates the consultation process for the final planning and design of the long-awaited Traralgon bypass.
• Grants available for Gippsland organisations to build community bushfire and floods resilience
  Guidelines for the Federal Government's Preparing Australian Communities Program - Local have been released ahead of applications opening.
• Cunninghame Arm community-driven project in Lakes Entrance boardwalk gets $5.8M federal government funding to make it work for all-abilities
  Work to construct an all-abilities boardwalk and shared pathway around the shores of Cunninghame Arm in Lakes Entrance will start this year thanks to $5.8 million in federal government funding.
• Bonang Road gets $9M funding for road sealing of federal Roads of Strategic Importance program
  Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester says he has been assured that work to complete the sealing of the Bonang Road will be completed within 12 months.
• Bonang Road gets $9M funding for road sealing of federal Roads of Strategic Importance program
  Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester says he has been assured that work to complete the sealing of the Bonang Road will be completed within 12 months.
• Third batch has $136,000 grants from Culture, Heritage and Arts Regional Tourism program to deliver support to creative and cultural sector
  Morrison government's funding support for the creative and cultural sector through Culture, Heritage and Arts Regional Tourism (CHART) program.
• Secret report reveals Andrews Labor government lockdowned despite major mental health concern from expert
  Victorian authorities continue to hold "major concern" with a substantial increase in demand for mental health services from children and teenagers, a confidential report has revealed.
• Reinstate density limits and not patron caps for safe reopening of regional hospitality venues
  Victorian Government has been urged to reinstate density limits, not patron caps, for the safe reopening of regional hospitality venues
• Blatantly dishonest for Andrews Labor government to claim it has re-opened every recreation site impacted by 2019-20 bushfires
  The State Government's claim it has re-opened every recreation site impacted by the 2019/20 bushfires, is blatantly dishonest, says Nationals Gippsland East MP, Tim Bull.
• Bairnsdale Aerodrome gets $9.9M federal funding from Black Summer Bushfire Recovery program
  Federal government announced the multi-million dollar boost for bushfire impacted communities across East Gippsland Shire.
• New Andrews Labor government housing tax add $20,000 average to cost of buying a home in Gippsland
  New housing tax that will add an average of $20,000 to the cost of buying a home in regional Victoria will be opposed by The Nationals in Parliament.
• Backtracking by Andrews Labor government on axing requirement for government to put public notices in local newspapers
  State Labor appears to be backtracking on its latest attack on transparency and accountability which would have axed the requirement for the government to put public notices in the local newspaper.
• Phillip island gets $144,000 in federal funding for new safety upgrades and improvements to roads
  New road safety upgrades and improvements will be delivered in Monash thanks to funding from the Australian Government.
• Russell Northe argues for more funding projects in Latrobe Valley be included in Andrews Labor government Victorian 2022-23 budget
  Member for Morwell, Russell Northe says he is hopeful of a number of projects in the Morwell electorate being funded through the state governments budget which is handed down next Tuesday 3 May.
• Maffra Play Precinct gets $320,000 upgrade from federal Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program
  Young people in Maffra have an exciting new way to keep active with the completion of the Maffra Play Precinct.
• Sandy Point Music Festival gets $28,367 for 2021/22 summer series through Live Music Australia federal program
  The Morrison Government is supporting the return of live music, with Sandy Point Music sharing in more than $2.5 million, as part of round three of the Live Music Australia program.
• East Gippsland Shire Council is urging Andrews Labor government to consider mental health with regional lockdowns and restrictions
  East Gippsland Shire Council is urging the Victorian Government to consider the mental health and wellbeing of its regional residents when making upcoming decisions relating to COVID-19 restrictions and lockdowns.
• SEED Lakeside Community Garden creator Shae Wilson gets $59,500 federal grant to support social and emotional health
  SEED Lakeside Community Garden in Sale will benefit from funding from the Federal Government.
• Landcare Australia gets bushfire environmental recovery boost of $3.8 million from federal wildlife and habitat recovery for East Gippsland
  Nearly 20 projects in East Gippsland will receive funding to aid the recovery of native wildlife and habitat severely impacted by the 2019/20 black summer bushfires.
• Grantville Jetty to be renewed by Bass Coast Shire Council
  Bass Coast Shire Council will renew the Grantville Jetty this month, to improve the safety of the structure which has deteriorated due to age and wear and tear from wave action.
• Heavy cuts for regional Victoria in 2022/23 budget due to record debts and costs blowouts from major projects by Andrews Labor government
  Regional Victorians are set to cop further cuts to services and find it even harder to buy a home with today's State Budget no more than a PR repair plan for Daniel Andrews.
• Grants and sponsorships from $2,000 to $20,000 available for events, capital works, equipment and wellbeing projects
  Community organisations will have the chance to garner funding support when round two of Latrobe City Council's Community Grant and Sponsorship program opens on 31 January.
• Roll out rapid testing to help save iconic Victorian spring racing carnival
  Major event that has been awaited by the crowd to forecast on 5 November.
• Restoring Victoria to manufacturing powerhouse with $2.5 billion rebuilding jobs, bringing Manufacturing Home Fund
  A vibrant manufacturing sector is critically important to help our state recover and rebuild and Globally, manufacturing is transforming rapidly, and Victoria must keep up.
• Cowes foreshore gets new groynes to improve coastal protection from Bass Coast Shire Council
  Eight new timber groynes are now in place to protect the Cowes East foreshore from erosion.
• Grants from $5,000 to $70,000 available for shows and field days via federal Supporting Agricultural Shows and Field Days program
  Round two of the Supporting Agricultural Shows and Field Days program opens on January 28, 2022.
• Peter Walsh says Andrews government vaccine mandate for all Authorised Workers, including farmers is desperate and illogical
  Mandating COVID vaccinations to all farmers and authorised workers.
• Buchan Recreation Reserve gets much-needed upgrade with $1.2M from federal Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program
  East Gippsland Shire Council will get the ball rolling on the much-needed upgrade of the Buchan Recreation Reserve.
• Lockdowns have pushed mental health of Victorians to the brink
  New data has revealed the worsening mental health toll of indefinite lockdown and isolation from friends and family.
• Ombudsman says Andrews Labor government border permit scheme downright unjust and inhumane
  The Andrews Labor Government's border permit system has been labelled "downright unjust, even inhumane" in a scathing report released today by the Victorian Ombudsman.
• Tutor program to continue in schools across Eastern Victoria until 2022
  The Victorian Government will make sure that not one school student across Eastern Victoria is left behind in the wake of the pandemic, with the state's extraordinarily successful tutor program to continue until the end of 2022.
• Neerim District Health Service Aged Care Facility gets $5M funding for upgrade from federal Community Development Grants Program
  Morrison government's commitment to redevelopment and upgrade of the Neerim District Health Service Aged Care facility.
• Grant applications open for $34.2 million federal Future Drought Fund's Drought Resilience Innovation Grants program
  Expressions of Interest (EOI) are now open for organisations to apply for projects to manage and prepare for drought.
• Dan Andrews pandemic bill for Victoria makes no sense when Commonwealth officials working in windowless offices not vaccine mandated
  Victorian government looks set to pass its controversial pandemic bill.
• Call for Gippsland schools, community organisations and sporting clubs to apply for grants to increase shade from sun via state government sunshade program
  Government program to better protect the community while having their time outdoors.
• Gippsland small and medium businesses can partake in $400 million of support from 'Victorian Business Support Package'
  A new jointly funded package from the Commonwealth and Victorian Governments will give Victorian small and medium businesses the extra support and confidence they need to recover from the recent lockdown.
• Warragul Leisure Centre Stadium expansion gets $1.25M early works underway from Community Sports Infrastructure Stimulus
  An early works contract valued at $1.25 million has been awarded for the Warragul Leisure Centre Stadium Expansion to prepare the site for major construction.
• Genoa Sports and Recreation Reserve gets $370,000 funding for improvements from East Gippsland Council and federal government
  The Genoa community has long held the upgrade of the courts as a priority and worked hard to attract funding for the project.
• Two long years since Andrew Labor government flagged intention to establish Stolen Generations Reparations package
  Victoria has today announced details of a Stolen Generations redress scheme.
• Labertouche CFA Station gets new water tank with funds from by Bendigo Bank, Longwarry CFA and Baw Baw Shire Council
  Purchase and installation of a 100,000-litre static water tank at the Labertouche CFA Station.
• Baxter Park gets first synthetic soccer pitch Baw Baw Shire
  Safer game play and improvements at Baxter Park synthetic soccer pitch is now open, but council is still seeking funding opportunities for the remaining project stages.
• Have your voice heard on Andrews Labor government pandemic management legislation for Victoria
  The outpouring of anger at the Premier's latest pandemic power grab speaks volumes.
• Buln Buln Recreation Reserve gets $65,000 funding for upgrade from Baw Baw Shire Council Playground Renewal Program
  Baw Baw Shire Council is inviting community members big and small to share their thoughts and ideas to help redesign a Buln Buln playground.
• Labertouche Community Hall gets lovingly restored through the Latrobe Valley Authority,s Community and Facility Fund
  Labertouche Community Hall has been lovingly restored with a new roof, ceiling and floor, thanks to support from the Andrews Labor Government.
• Latrobe City to work with federal government on $10M funding for next stage of Gippsland Logistics Precinct
  Latrobe City Council is ready to partner with the new Labor Federal Government following the results of the Federal election over the weekend.
• Historic Snowy River railway trestle bridge gets $1.05M for restoration from federal Black Summer Bushfire Recovery Grants program
  Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester has secured extra funding for the restoration of the historic Snowy River railway trestle bridge as part of a bushfire recovery program.
• Feedback wanted from Gippslanders on Connecting Victoria survey from state government
  One Gippsland has welcomed the Victorian Government's ground-breaking Connecting Victoria Engagement Report that outlines the digital connectivity issues in regional Victoria.
• Over $4.77M invested by Liberal and Nationals Government for priority Gippsland projects to met local communities needs
  Liberal and Nationals Government investing over $4.77 million in South Gippsland to help communities recover from the pandemic.
• Victoria risks losing its title as Australia's agriculture powerhouse as $500M wiped from food and fibre sector while NSW gains $1B
  Victoria risks losing its crown as Australia's agriculture powerhouse according to new food and fibre export figures released this month.
• Forest Park in Orbost gets $1.82M funding upgrade after the community consultation
  Council seeking for community feedback on Forest Park in Orbost project.
• Application open for grants to find low cost ways for Gippsland farmers to measure carbon in soil
  Grants of between $100,000 and $20 million are now open for innovators in Monash for projects to lower the cost of measuring carbon stored in soil.
• Wairewa Public Hall and Reserve gets $14,509 funding upgrades from federal Build Drought Resilience program
  Two organisations in East Gippsland will benefit from funding as part of the Future Drought Fund's Networks to Build Drought Resilience program.
• Regions in Victoria like Gippsland need a guaranteed positive way forward crippling 18 months of uncertainty and lockdown
  The time has come to guarantee a positive way forward for regional Victorian communities that have been crippled by 18 months of uncertainty and lockdown.
• McNairn Road pedestrian crossing upgrade gets $900,000 funding through Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program
  The McNairn Road pedestrian crossing will be upgraded thanks to federal government funding.
• East Gippsland Rail Trail gets sealing and surface upgrades by local firm Cranes Asphalting
  Funding for works on the rail trail from Bairnsdale to Orbost.
• Murray Street and Biggs Drive intersection upgrade gets $650,000 funding from Blackspot Program 2021/22 and Growing Suburbs Fund
  Bass Coast Shire Council is continuing to Unlock Opportunities in Wonthaggi, with significant pedestrian safety upgrade works on the intersection of Murray Street and Biggs Drive about to get underway.
• Heavily bushfire impacted community of Sarsfield gets legal advice on eligibility for Black Summer Bushfire Recovery grants program
  The heavily bushfire impacted community of Sarsfield has received legal advice about its eligibility for the Black Summer Bushfire Recovery grants program.
• Victoria needs positive plan to rebuild rural healthcare in regions like Gippsland
  Due to the challenges of the pandemic and workforce isolation requirements on our hospitals, suggests making changes to government legislation and funding criteria for better mental health services.
• Paynesville Slip Road Maritime Precinct on Burrabogie Island upgrade underway with $6.1M funding from Victorian and federal government grants
  Paynesville's much-anticipated Slip Road Maritime Precinct project on Burrabogie Island is progressing, with work on an improved design set to begin.
• People with an eating disorder to get more support with $20M funding from Victorian government
  More Victorians living with an eating disorder will receive the support they need to recover and live happy, healthy lives, thanks to record investment from the Andrews Labor government.
• Nationals alternative roadmap for Victoria and Gippsland to reopen, rebuild and recover out of COVID restrictions delivers certainty and positivity
  Victorians are looking for an iron-clad guarantee on the road to reopen, rebuild and recover.
• Buchan Recreation Reserve gets $4.2M bushfire recovery funding for improvement and upgrades
  The Buchan Recreation Reserve will receive a $4.2 million facelift after an additional $3 million in bushfire recovery funding was secured this week.
• Disability access issues on V/Line train network ignored by Andrews Labor government after confirming services would be delivered
  More stories have emerged this week of Victorians with a disability being prevented from travelling on V/Line trains, even after confirming services would be accessible.
• Victoria's family violence crisis continues to worsen according to Independent Crime Statistics Agency
  Family violence offences in Victoria have reached harrowing highs.
• New report more evidence that immediate change needed to better Victorian children mental health
  New data today has painted a harrowing picture of the deteriorating mental health of young Victorians.
• Steph Ryan says Victoria's recovery roadmap must have hope for regional hospitality venues that are on their knees
  Victoria's roadmap to recovery must include hope for regional hospitality venues that are on their knees.
• East Gippsland Conservation Management Network gets $200,663 via Environment Restoration Fund to enhance protection of threatened Brush-tailed Rock-wallabies
  East Gippsland Conservation Management Network (EGCMN) will improve protection for Brush-tailed Rock-wallabies in Gippsland thanks to federal government funding.
• Gippsland arts, cultural and heritage organisations can apply for grants from federal CHART program to support rebuilding and preservation
  Government continues to deliver record support to the creative and cultural sector, with 47 new projects.
• Community Grant recipients in Bass Coast Shire celebrate in $151,2000 of grants
  Bass Coast Shire Council distributed $151,200 to 44 community groups on Thursday, for Round Two of the 2021 Community Grants Program.
• Victoria's Agriculture Minister dismissive on looming Christmas supply disruptions from timber shortage
  With the loss of jobs in small timber communities could result to Christmas grocery shortages with some supermarkets desperate for pallets, and this is what the Labor government needs to understand before releasing the native timber policy.
• Libraries Victoria App makes it easier for readers to access thousands of eBooks, eAudiobooks or digital magazines for all ages and interests
  A new online catalogue and digital services makes it easier to browse and borrow, from home, work or even on the go, any time of the day or night.
• Parks Victoria failed again to accurately report on rebuild of Thurra River Bridge two years after fire
  Parks Victoria has yet again failed to provide accurate information on the rebuild of the Thurra River Bridge.
• Lucknow Recreation Reserve clubrooms gets $42,000 for Tesla solar power and batteries from Gippsland Climate Change Network
  Installation of energy storage battery at Lucknow Recreation Reserve clubrooms that will help save money on electricity cost and reduce carbon dioxide emissions.
• Applications open for Youth Grants Program from Bass Coast Shire Council
  Applications for Bass Coast Shire Council's Youth Grants Program are now open.
• More than a hundred jobs to be cut from Agriculture Victoria reducing services to food and fibre industry by Andrews Labor government
  As all Victorians continue to be impacted by food shortages and major disruptions to the food supply chain, Labor will axe 109 jobs from Agriculture Victoria this year.
• LED lights to be installed at Darnum Recreation Reserve with $200,000 funding from Victorian Country Football Netball Program
  The AFL Oval and Netball Courts at Darnum Recreation Reserve will soon undergo much needed upgrades with the installation of new light towers and LED light fittings throughout the facility.
• Regional Victoria out of sixth lockdown but we cannot keep living like this
  Call for the government to roll out the rapid antigen test to protect the people as well as the businesses in Victoria.
• Low-income Gippsland households can apply for $1,000 rebate to replace old heaters from state government 'Home Heating and Cooling Upgrade' program
  Heating upgrade grant to support low-income households.
• Students in regional Victoria such as Gippsland should not have to endure more weeks locked out of the classroom
  Students in regional Victoria should not have to endure more weeks locked out of the classroom.
• What is Labor's plan to keep Victoria's supply chain moving with these constant lockdowns
  Victorians have come to rely on a steady stream of food delivery and online shopping to get through another lockdown.
• Extension of Victoria's seasonal worker deal with Tasmania for farmers is long overdue and wont make a dent in shortage
  Extension of Victoria's seasonal worker deal with Tasmania is long overdue, but the 1500 places announced today is a band aid solution that won't make a dent in the tens of thousands of vacancies across the sector.
• Raymond Island Koala population and native wildlife gets $1.3M federal funding to improve facility accessible and revegetation of area
  Raymond Island's koala population and native wildlife has received a major boost as part of a $1.3 million initiative funded by all levels of government.
• Black Summer Bushfire Recovery Grants East rip off for Gippsland may be avoided says Darren Chester
  The Federal Government is backing away from a plan which would have short-changed bushfire impacted communities in East Gippsland, according to local MP Darren Chester.
• International Rose Garden Festival in Morwell 13-21 November 2021
  Variety of flowery events to watch out for at Morwell.
• Baw Baw Shire Council grants over $140,000 to 34 community groups from 2021/22 grants
  Council is set to deliver more than $143,836 in Community Development Grants to 34 non-profit organisations and associations to support the delivery of projects that make a positive impact for the Baw Baw community.
• Local emergency services for regional Victoria should feature in 2022-23 Victorian budget
  Gippsland East Nationals MP, Tim Bull is hoping to see some key projects ticked off in next week's State Budget.
• New Maryvale Mill Energy from Waste Facility will add local jobs from federal government's $48.2M investment through Modern Manufacturing Initiative program
  Latrobe City Council welcomes the federal government's commitment of $48.2 million to the energy from waste facility at the Maryvale Mill through the Modern Manufacturing Initiative.
• East Gippsland Shire offers $15,000 up to $50,000 grants to local community groups to upgrade a facilities on council-owned or Crown land
  Grants offered for community groups and organisations of East Gippsland Shire.
• Latrobe City Council helps secure $117M funding for local projects from Victorian 2022/23 budget
  Latrobe City Council thanks the State Government for their investment in local projects as part of the 2022/23 Budget.
• East Gippsland Men's sheds encouraged to apply for grants up to $80,000 to improve facilities via 2022-23 Men's Shed Funding Program
  Men's Sheds grants that support the establishment, expand or refurbish existing sheds across the state are now open.
• Free pair of glasses for 176 students across West Gippsland and Latrobe Valley from Andrews Labor Victorian government
  One thousand more Victorian students can now see more clearly and concentrate better at school, thanks to the Andrews Labor Government's free Glasses for Kids program.
• Promise for additional train services for Shepparton and Warrambool must be included in Andrews Labor government Victorian budget 2022-23
  Additional passenger train services on the Shepparton and Warrnambool lines will remain a far-off dream if next week's State Budget fails to invest in the rolling stock required to deliver them.
• Promise for additional train services for Shepparton and Warrambool must be included in Andrews Labor government Victorian budget 2022-23
  Additional passenger train services on the Shepparton and Warrnambool lines will remain a far-off dream if next week's State Budget fails to invest in the rolling stock required to deliver them.
• Baw Baw Shire Council shares in state funding to help residents understand the four-bin recycling system
  Victorian councils are being supported to roll out new education campaigns to help residents understand the four-bin recycling system, as part of the Victorian Government's goal to divert 80% of waste from landfill.
• Energy from waste facility for Masdar Tribe Australia in Latrobe Valley gets $48.2M from Morrison coalition Modern Manufacturing grant
  The Morrison Government is investing $48.2 million in a state-of-the-art energy from waste facility in the Latrobe Valley, helping to power Opal's pulp and paper mill while driving down emissions.
• Apply now for federal 'Smart Farms Small Grants' of upto $250,000 to do two-year soil extension activities on local farms
  The national soil strategy is a government funding that prioritises soil health, empowers soil innovation and stewards, and strengthens soil knowledge and capability to improve soil management for better profit.
• Princes Highway through East Gippsland gets $3.6M upgrade to improve road safety and resilience
  A $3.6 million upgrade to one of the worst sections of the Princes Highway will improve safety and resilience of the key transport link, according to Member for Gippsland Darren Chester.
• Yarram airport in East Gippsland gets $300,000 federal funding to improve safety
  Yarram Airport will be upgraded thanks to a $300,000 funding boost under Round 2 of the Federal Government's Regional Airports Program.
• Applications open for Building Disability Inclusive Businesses and Community Organisations grants from Bass Coast Shire Council
  Applications are now open for up to $1,000 for Bass Coast Shire Council's 2022 Building Disability Inclusive Businesses and Community Organisations Grant.
• Bass Coast Shire Council to push new federal government to boost funding on priority projects
  Council has announced it will be heading to Canberra next month to lobby the new Federal Government on behalf of our community for fairer funding for priority projects in climate change, infrastructure, education, aged care and tourism.
• Darren Chester congratulates achievements of student leaders at Morwell Central Primary School
  Local MP Darren Chester visited Morwell Central Primary School recently to meet with school leaders and present them with their Achievement Certificates.
• Gippsland state-owned schools, health and service organisations directed to move regional banks accounts to CBA, NAB and Westpac
  State-owned schools, health services and organisations have been directed to close accounts with smaller regional banks and transfer funds to Commonwealth, Westpac or NAB banks.
• Applications open for $2,500 to $20,000 grants so local organisations and community groups can join Queen's Jubilee tree planting program
  Local organisations and community groups can apply to be a part of the Planting Trees for the Queen's Jubilee program.
• Scenic Estate Conservation Reserve at Phillip Island will have public roads discontinued and closed
  Bass Coast Shire Council has resolved to begin the statutory process to discontinue public roads within Phillip Island's Scenic Estate Conservation Reserve.
• New cancer treatment centre for West Gippsland Hospital coming as health group gets $4.5M funding from federal coalition government for build
  A new cancer treatment centre to be built at West Gippsland Health Group will change lives and improve regional health outcomes thanks to funding from the Federal Coalition Government.
• York Street Revitalisation project gets $11.68 M federal funding for Wellington Shire
  Major upgrade of York Street to entice travelling motorists to stop and explore Sale, as well as improve ride quality and traffic safety, is a step closer to being completed.
• Research underway to strengthen Greater Glider possum population in Latrobe CIty with $50,000 grant from Victorian government
  A research project is underway to study and strengthen the population of the Greater Glider possum, the largest gliding mammal in Australia.
• Macalister Resilience and Critical Infrastructure project gets $2.5M federal funding to improve pathway to Gippsland water security
  The Macalister Resilience and Critical Infrastructure project will receive $2.5 million in federal government funding.
• Gippsland live performance presenters and suppliers can apply for state support from event cancellations between May and September
  The Victorian Government is providing more support for live performance events that have been cancelled due to the recent coronavirus restrictions.
• Mirboo North Pool reopens with updated facilities from $3.6M low interest loan from Community Sports Infrastructure Loans Victorian government scheme
  Mirboo North's updated pool facilities are open in time for summer fun, thanks to a community sports loan from the Victorian Government.
• Reopening of prolonged outage program was called out by Mr Northe as some residents still have no power after five days
  Member for Morwell Russell Northe has called upon the State Government to reopen the Prolonged Power Outage Program to assist residents who have been without power for many days and since storms battered parts of the State last Friday.
• Bridget Brown from Seaspray Surf Life Saving Club wins silver medal in beach sprints at Victorian Championships 2022
  Life Saving Victoria's best senior athletes from Seaspray Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) put on a spectacle at Warrnambool SLSC this weekend for the Victorian Championships.
• Latrobe Valley paper will continue to be sent by rail for export and distribution as key Gippsland freight service gets stimulus for Victorian government
  Improvements on train tracks that will help ensure its daily runs.
• NYE on the Hill 2021 three day festival near Loch Village in South Gippsland gets $178,200 from federal Restart Investment to Sustain and Expand Fund
  Receiving support from the government to give more opportunities to the arts sector, as well as job opportunities for the community.
• Darren Chester seeks explanation from Andrews Labor government on Eastern Beach Road works on extraordnary delay
  Failure to upgrade a busy intersection in Lakes Entrance is putting residents at risk of serious injuries, according to Member for Gippsland Darren Chester.
• Gippsland rural airstrips and aerodromes can apply for grants of between $5,000 and $3M from federal Remote Airstrip Upgrade Program
  The guidelines for round nine of the federal government,s Remote Airstrip Upgrade program have now been released.
• Darren Chester urges Timber Towns Victoria Roundtable to get involved in the federal election campaign with jobs and environmental messages
  Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester has told a Timber Towns Victoria Roundtable 'we need to keep fighting to save our timber industry because people and wildlife die in poorly managed forests'.
• Latrobe Valley renewable energy Investment by Andrews Labor Government to reducing emissions and create jobs
  The Andrews Labor Government is continuing to invest in renewable energy in the Latrobe Valley and beyond - reducing emissions and creating jobs.
• Bairnsdale airport in East Gippsland gets $220,000 federal funding for upgrade
  Bairnsdale Airport will be upgraded thanks to a $220,000 funding boost under Round 2 of the Federal Government's Regional Airports Program.
• Despite business struggles recovering from pandemic Andrews Labor government budget cuts more from regional development funding
  The 2022-23 state budget confirmed Labor's funding strip from the regional development fund.
• New survey shows declining youth mental health post pandemic highlighting need to rejuvenate Victorian mental health workforce
  A new survey today detailing the declining mental health of young people after the pandemic has further highlighted the urgent need to rejuvenate Victoria's fatigued mental health workforce.
• Civil engineering scholarship $10,000 grant for Federation University Gippsland campus from Wellington Shire Council
  Wellington Shire Council offering a $10,000 scholarship to a local student undertaking civil engineering studies at Federation University's Gippsland campus.
• Federal assistance of $7 million paid to Gippsland local governments for first quarter 2021-22
  Local governments in Monash have received their first 2021-22 quarterly payment through the Federal Government's Financial Assistance Grant program.
• Gippsland motorists robbed of life-saving road upgrades as state and federal government dithers
  Government failing to fast track the road safety upgrades putting regional communities in critical functioning.
• Fair share needed for regional Victoria in 2022-23 Budget
  Regional Victorians are demanding a fair share of the state's spend on hospitals, schools, infrastructure and mental health in the lead up to the State Budget on May 3.
• Noojee transition plan from timber industry to be developed by independent project officer with $360,000 from Victorian Forestry grant
  State government initiative that would help support the timber communities and local jobs.
• Hospitality businesses across Victoria suffer losses from worsening post-pandemic staff shortages
  More hospitality businesses across Victoria are today reporting losses due to the worsening post-pandemic staffing shortages in the industry.
• Students from regional Victoria that started university in 2021 can apply for scholarship up to $18,000
  Federal Member for Monash Russell Broadbent said students from regional areas who started university this year could still apply for a scholarship worth up to $18,000.
• Business Fibre Zones with 1 GB Internet connections coming to Warragul and Wonthaggi-Inverloch from agreement between state government and NBN Co
  Victorians can look forward to more areas of their state being able to access the highest speed NBN speed tiers under a co-investment agreement between NBN Co Limited (NBN Co) and the Victorian Government, announced today.
• Liveability and growth reduced in regional Victoria from highly under-serviced by public transport
  Extreme gaps on regional Victoria's public transportation shows that the government fails to provide a plan for the recovery of the region, making it hard for the region's industry and producers to even lesser productivity and profit.
• New multi-purpose facility for Tambo Crossing community opens thanks to federal and state governments ‍funding of $426,000
  Proud. That's the best way to describe the Tambo Crossing community at the official opening of their new multi-purpose facility last Friday afternoon.
• Dinosaur from Bass Coast named as Victoria's official State Fossil Emblem
  Proposed dinosaur trail, to give an experience and understanding about the fossil and dinosaurs that once roamed Bass Coast.
• Labor Party and Greens block amendments to doubled maximum fine for illegal entry on Victorian farms
  Victorian farmers waited two long years for tough new on-the-spot fines to stop farm invasions that threaten their safety and farm biosecurity.
• Outrage among regional motorists as new data shows most neglected local government areas in country Victoria
  The sad state of country roads is driving outrage among regional motorists with new data painting a picture of Victoria's most neglected local government areas.
• Darren Chester presents achievement certificates to school leaders at Morwell Campus of Kurnai College
  Darren Chester MP presents the school leaders with their achievement certificates.
• High-intensity bushfires and invasive animals biggest risk to Victorian ecosystems
  Report and recommendations made to protect Victori'as ecosystems and combat the devastation of bushfires, invasive weeds and pest animals.
• Regional kids including Gippsland still locked out of the classroom, but the Andrew's Labor state government won't tell us why
  Andrews Labor Government's decision to force students in regional communities into remote learning.
• Landholders in East Gippsland to develop wildlife refuges with $1 million grant to 'Trust for Nature' as part of bushfire recovery
  The Federal Government is backing local landholders and communities in East Gippsland to lead the way in bushfire recovery through a $1 million grant to support the regeneration of impacted plants and animals.
• Youth-specific rehabilitation facility on Northern Avenue in Traralgon officially opened as part of Victorian Ice Action Plan
  Latrobe Valley and Gippsland youth to get the alcohol and drugs rehabilitation support they need through Victorian Health Building Authority (VHBA).
• New Men's Shed Workshop at Neerim Junction on digital technology funded $80,000 from Victorian government
  Council has entered a community lease with Neerim District Community House and Men's Shed to develop a workshop facility located at the former Neerim Junction Tennis Courts, at 17 Court Rd, Neerim Junction.
• Bass Coast competitors return to Life Saving Victoria 2022 Motorsport inflatable rescue boat premiership season
  Life Saving Victoria's (LSV's) 2022 TRE Motorsport inflatable rescue boat (IRB) Premiership Season.
• Giant Gippsland Earthworms and Hooded Plovers get $500,000 from Morrison government Threatened Species Strategy Action Plan
  Community-led program that aims to conserve, restore and protect native wildlife that share the same habitat.
• Support for senior vocational education students (VET) from Andrews Labor government
  The Victorian Government is making sure every secondary school student whose Vocational Education and Training (VET) studies have been disrupted by the pandemic will receive extra support to complete their certificates.
• Wreck Creek in Inverloch gets culvert upgrades
  Culvert renewal project that will help protect the structure from erosion.
• Damning picture of illegal drug use across Melbourne and regional Victoria Data painted by Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission
  Injecting room in the wrong location as the government's response on their neglect on the triple zero emergency service and failure to plan on Victoria's health workforce.
• Building of Cowes Cultural and Community Centre and Wonthaggi Guide Park has started
  Construction on two of Bass Coast Shire Council's major projects has now officially started, the Cowes Cultural and Community Centre and Wonthaggi Guide Park.
• Gippsland Cancer Care Centre to get new Linear Accelerator as part of $11M funding package from the Victorian 2022/23 budget
  Regional cancer patients will have access to brand new radiotherapy services closer to home, thanks to a massive funding boost in the Victorian Budget 2022/23.
• Veteran health and wellbeing funding via 'Supporting Younger Veterans' grant for West and South Gippsland
  Grants offered for the support to our young veterans mental health and wellbeing.
• Supported living units at Mirridong Services in Yarram with $2.32M grant from federal Building Better Regions Fund
  Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester officially opened two new supported living units at Mirridong Services in Yarram.
• Further $10 million allocation to upgrade and replace bridges in Australia through federal government's Bridges Renewal Program (BRP)
  More bridges in Gippsland will be eligible to be replaced as part of the Federal Government's Bridges Renewal Program (BRP).
• Chronic shortage of Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) for coronavirus in Victoria responsibility of Andrews Labor government
  Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) are having a shortage while the government is trying to play the blame game.
• Applications open for Baw Baw Shire Council Community Development Grant support of up to $5,000 for environment-related projects
  From Tuesday 19 April, community groups and non-profit organisations will be able to apply for Baw Baw Shire Council Community Development Grant support of up to $5,000 for equipment or environment-related projects.
• Liberal Nationals support move to deliver hundreds of extra workers for Victoria's under-resourced mental health workforce
  Government needs to boost mental health support through simple reforms to get them through the lockdowns.
• West and South Gippsland Shire Councils get $5.6M from federal Financial Assistance Grant program 2021-22 Q3 payment
  Local governments in Monash have received their third 2021-22 quarterly payment through the federal government's financial assistance Grant program.
• Federal 'Building Better Regions Fund' invests $9.9M in Leongatha, Korumburra, Toora, Koo Wee Rup, Cowes and Woolamai Beach
  Project funding that would create jobs for locals and will support the economic and social recovery of the region.
• Advocacy Priority list endorsed and several important grant applications supported by Bass Coast Shire Council
  Revised and updated advocacy priorities that will seek funding.
• Baw Baw Shire Council calls for more storm relief support from state and federal governments
  Baw Baw Shire Council has called on the State and Federal Governments to fulfil their promises and provide more support in the aftermath of the June storm events.
• More than $110,000 funding goes to community groups via Community Assistance Grants program from Wellington Shire Council
  Wellington Shire Council this week approved more than $110,000 in funding to local community groups for events, projects and facilities, through its Community Assistance Grants program.
• Crown Casino reform not complete until thorough investigation of Andrews Labor Government dealings
  Victorian Liberals and Nationals accept the recommendations made by the Royal Commission into Crown Casino today.
• Bass Coast Shire residents best recyclers in Victoria says sustainability report
  Bass Coast Shire residents are the best recyclers in the state, according to a recent Sustainability Victoria report.
• Bringing manufacturing home needed to solve growing shortages of essential chemicals and spare parts by Victorian farm businesses
  The global supply chain took a battering in the COVID pandemic and now conflict between Russia and the Ukraine is further shaking the foundations of Victoria's key import and export markets.
• Sixteen local clubs, groups and organisations awarded funding from Community Infrastructure Grant Program from East Gippsland Shire Council
  Almost $500,000 will be handed out to 16 local clubs, groups and organisations, as part of East Gippsland Shire Council's latest round of community grants.
• Art Resource Collective (ARC) in Yinnar celebrates its 40 years with $3,000 grant from Culture, Heritage and Arts Regional Tourism program
  The Art Resource Collective (Arc) in Yinnar will mark 40 years with support from the Federal Government.
• Kilcunda Caravan Park on Bass Highway gets new long-term lease
  Bass Coast Shire Council has awarded a long-term lease for the Kilcunda Caravan Park, located on the Bass Highway in Kilcunda.
• Neerim South War Memorial restored with support from the Victoria Remembers Grant Program
  Baw Baw Shire Council has completed restoration works on the War Memorial in Neerim South.
• Latrobe Valley Ladder Step Up program celebrates fourth year getting young people engaged in education, training and employment
  Over the past four years, Ladder program participants have achieved outstanding outcomes, re-engaged in education, employment, and training.
• Bass Coast Shire Council calls for Inverloch to remain in the State District of Bass in response to proposed change to State Electoral boundaries
  Bass Coast Shire Council will develop a submission, advocating for Inverloch to remain in the State District of Bass, following a proposal to change State Electoral boundaries.
• Black Spot program funded nearly $3 million for three projects in Baw Baw, Bass Coast and South Gippsland Shires for 2020-21
  Installation of safety barriers and safety upgrades such as lighting, signage, traffic lights and roundabouts in Sand Road/Princes Way as part of the government's Black Spot Program.
• Traralgon paralympian Emily Beecroft and local footy legend Beau Vernon speak at community workshops in Morwell from February to April
  Traralgon Paralympian Emily Beecroft and local footy legend and motivational speaker Beau Vernon will headline a series of community workshops about sport and inclusivity from February through April.
• Mallacoota Pony Club getting ready to resume operations using $296,000 grant from federal Local Economic Recovery program
  Local MP Darren Chester has congratulated members of the Mallacoota Pony Club for getting work underway to resume operations.
• Child care services in Wellington Shire gets boost of $230,000
  Three child care providers in Wellington have received a welcome funding boost to meet the needs of local families.
• Country drivers in danger from hazards on rural roads from Andrews Labor government budget cuts
  Labor government's cut on the road maintenance neglect on the country road asset maintenance has left the country roads neglected.
• Federal Local Economic Recovery program funds $1.4 million for improvements to Buchan streetscape in East Gippsland
  Buchan streetscape will be upgraded thanks to Federal Government funding through the Local Economic Recovery Program.
• Puffing Billy tradition of sitting on window sills returns to the iconic heritage Victorian railway
  The time-honoured tradition of sitting on the sills of Puffing Billy will make its long-awaited return to the iconic heritage railway from today.
• Pop-up program from Baw Baw Shire Council is back and starts 17 March 2022 in Thorpdale
  Baw Baw Shire Council's popular Council Pop-up program is back for 2022, taking council and staff on the road to speak to locals where they live.
• Food relief across the Latrobe Valley funded $16,700 from Food Relief Financial Reserve
  The Victorian Government is ensuring those who are doing it tough during the pandemic can continue putting a meal on the table, with funding to deliver food to Victorians who need it most.
• Dan Andrews walks away from apology opportunity for dismissive comments on toxic bullying culture allegations in Victorian Labor party
  Premier Daniel Andrews has walked away from another opportunity to apologise for comments dismissing a Labor MP's allegations of a toxic bullying culture within the Labor Party as "fantasy".
• Expelling students with disability to burden families is not the answer to under-resourced Victorian schools
  Data released today confirms soaring rates of expulsion of students with a disability during the pandemic, indicating under-resourced schools are not coping.
• Hopeful return of full duck season in Victoria for 2022 says Tim Bull
  The Nationals Member for Gippsland East, Tim Bull said 2022 will hopefully see the return of a full duck season in Victoria.
• Alberton Timber and Treatment Plant completes massive upgrade with $550,000 assistance grant from federal government
  Local MP Darren Chester recently visited Alberton Timber and Treatment Plant to inspect the new peeling plant and hear about the operation's expansion.
• Examples of repugnant discrimination as unvaccinated in Victoria are persecuted and ostracised
  As our Prime Minister introduces the Religious Discrimination Bill, it is ironic that unvaccinated people in Victoria are on the receiving end of some of our country's harshest discrimination restrictions.
• Local artists wanted to apply for public mural for community or township with grant of $20,000 from Baw Baw Shire Council
  Council is seeking expressions of interest from local artists and creative community members keen to deliver a public art mural project for a community or township within Baw Baw Shire.
• Haunted Hills Mountain Bike Park trails in Moe to be further extended via Regional Tourism Investment Fund
  Victorian Government is supporting the extension of a popular mountain bike track in Gippsland.
• Peter Walsh says rapid testing will help Melbourne and regions in Victoria like Gippsland open up and stay open
  Rapid COVID-19 testing as the key to put Victoria back on track.
• Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission report shows massive 30 percent increase in Ice Drug addiction after Victorian lockdowns
  New data pointing to a spike in drug use and addiction has painted a harrowing picture of the impact of lockdowns on the lives of vulnerable Victorians.
• Replacement of Downies Bridge timbers in Traralgon South is nearing completion with help of federal government's Bridges Renewal Program
  Work to upgrade Downies Bridge in Traralgon South is well underway.
• Brumby carcasses found by locals in East Gippsland bush requires explanation from Andrews Labor government about culling program
  Following reports of brumby carcasses being found in the East Gippsland bush, local Nationals MP, Tim Bull, has asked the Environment Minister to come clean on the details of the program.
• Expanded free TAFE turbocharges post-covid Victoria and Gippsland
  Additional TAFE courses ensuring appropriate training for Victorian job seekers.
• Promised plant nursery with 30 jobs for Nowa Nowa scrapped by Andrews Labor government
  The State Government's promise to establish a nursery employing 30 people in Nowa Nowa has, as many expected, been scrapped, in fact, it never progressed beyond the media release.
• Community feedback wanted on old Mallacoota Kindergarten building being demolished by Wellington Shire Council
  With the new kindergarten in Mallacoota now operational, the time has come to decommission and demolish the old building it replaced.
• Lake Guyatt Environmental Education Centre with $650,000 construction grant from Wellington Shire Council
  Construction is underway on the Lake Guyatt Environmental Education Centre, a new space for events and learning programs with a focus on sustainability and culture.
• Omeo Recreation Reserve become temporary camp site as Omeo Caravan Park gets cleaned up after floods
  East Gippsland Shire Council backed the establishment of an interim camping site at the Omeo Recreation Reserve.
• Young people in East Gippsland wanted to apply for free leadership program - Youth Ambassador Program
  East Gippsland Shire Council is looking for people aged 12 to 25 to join the Youth Ambassador Program.
• Community sponsorship program for Baw Baw opening in July
  Sponsorship and grants for community organisations to assist for the community development.
• East Gippslanders dismayed by bushfire recovery grants program
  Council disappointment on the recovery grants for bush fire damages, requesting urgent review on bush fire recovery funding allocation for Gippsland.
• Country commuters stranded on neglected V/Line network from Andrews Labor government budget cuts
  Regional train passengers are again wearing the consequences of decades of neglect of V/Line, with a statewide communications outage forcing the entire network to a standstill today.
• Place making projects for Nilma North, Tanjil Bren and Tetoora Road to start development
  Council has endorsed the 2021/22 Placemaking Program to benefit the smaller townships of Nilma North, Tanjil Bren and Tetoora Road.
• Proposal to improve pedestrian safety at St Ita's Primary School to Regional Roads Victoria endorsed by Baw Baw Shire Council
  Council proposed pedestrian school crossing at St. Ita's primary school.
• Disappointment expressed by Russell Northe at Bank Australia for closing Morwell branch
  Closure of another bank to bring more disappointment to the residents.
• Baw Baw Shire Council makes big improvements to town planning to maximise effect of being one of Victoria's fastest growing regions
  Baw Baw Shire Council, one of the fastest growing regions of Victoria, is taking proactive steps to align Planning outcomes with the needs and desires of the local community in the face of unprecedented rates of development.
• Sun Cinema in Bairnsdale receives $60,000 as financial boost thanks to federal government SCREEN fund
  A Gippsland independent cinema has received a financial boost thanks to the federal government's SCREEN Fund.
• How Labor's tax hike will slug Gippsland farmers, families and businesses
  Victorians pay the highest land taxes in Australia, but still the government is hiking them up even further.
• Community feedback wanted on Surf Beach and Sunderland Bay estates drainage works by Bass Coast Council
  Bass Coast Shire Council will continue to investigate a potential special charge scheme for road and drainage upgrade works for the Surf Beach and Sunderland Bay estates.
• Calls for more caution after four people drown in Victoria at beginning of 2022
  Water safety authorities are warning everyone to be smart and safe around the water to avoid turning holidays into casualties.
• Noojee nominated as finalist in 2022 Top Tourism Town Awards by Victoria Tourism Industry Council
  Baw Baw Shire's beloved town of Noojee has been announced as a finalist in a highly-prized annual tourism awards program. All residents are encouraged to vote now to help Noojee take out the top accolade.
• Redevelopment underway in Guide Park in Wonthaggi with $700,000 from Sports and Recreation Victoria and $350,000 from the Growing Suburbs Fund
  Work is set to get underway on the redevelopment of Guide Park in Wonthaggi, which will see the creation of a regional scale playspace for the community.
• Outdoor Entertainment Rebate Program gives up to $300 from Bass Coast Shire Council
  Bass Coast Shire Council's Outdoor Entertainment Rebate Program will give businesses rebates of up to $300 for providing outdoor entertainment this summer.
• Improved access to Electric Vehicle Charge Stations to support investment in the region to operate by July 2023
  Several holiday towns within East Gippsland will soon have improved access to Electric Vehicle Charge Stations, after a push in the Victorian Parliament from local Nationals State MP, Tim Bull.
• Special Charge Scheme to raise $400,000 for South Bairnsdale Industrial Estate to unlock investment in East Gippsland
  East Gippsland Shire Council has declared a Special Charge Scheme to help fund an upgrade to the water supply at the South Bairnsdale Industrial Estate and allow the precinct to reach its full potential.
• Applications open for Community Cricket Program for grass root cricket clubs to share in $13.5M funding
  Applications are open for the next round of the Community Cricket Program that will provide opportunities for grass root cricket clubs to share in $13.5 million to develop and upgrade cricket facilities across Victoria.
• Three year health project for children and young people started by East Gippsland Shire Council and VicHealth
  Children and young people will be the centre of a three-year East Gippsland Shire Council project looking to help younger residents grow up active, healthy and socially connected.
• Latrobe City community and sporting groups get more than $300,000 funding from council Community Grants and Sponsorships Program
  More than $300,000 will be distributed to local sporting, cultural and community groups in round two of Latrobe City Council's Community Grants and Sponsorships Program.
• Workshops and webinars to apply for Black Summer Bushfire Recovery Grants program
  Funding for grants to assist the local and small businesses in bushfire recovery.
• Beekeepers share the buzz about access to Colquhoun Forest, near Nowa Nowa in East Gippsland
  East Gippsland Councillors joined the Victorian Apiarists' Association and Gippsland Apiarist Association on a field tour of beekeeping sites.
• No more excuses for bushfire recovery delays in East Gippsland from Andrews Labor government
  All levels of government have been challenged to stop making excuses and get on with the job of delivering bushfire recovery projects in East Gippsland.
• 2021/22 Community Sponsorship Program applications open from Baw Baw Shire Council
  Round 2 of Baw Baw Shire Council's 2021/22 Community Sponsorship program is now open for applications.
• Great outcomes for Latrobe City and Gippsland from Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program and Building Better Regions Fund
  Latrobe City Council has welcomed continued funding for key programs to support roads and local infrastructure as part of the 2022/23 Federal Budget.
• Development of clean hydrogen and carbon capture and storage in Gippsland get $42.9M funding from federal government
  The Coalition government is backing the development of clean hydrogen and carbon capture and storage technologies in Victoria's Gippsland region, providing job and economic growth opportunities for the community.
• Darren Chester secured $6.5M funding for Marine Parade in Lakes Entrance through federal government grant
  One of Lakes Entrance's busiest roads will receive a $6.5 million facelift thanks to a Federal Government grant.
• Envite Environment in Nowa Nowa protecting rare plant Boggy Creek Bottlebrush with Bushfire Recovery Grant funding via Landcare Australia
  Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester (left) with Abi Wills and Matt Kennedy from Envite Environment at Nowa Nowa where a rare species of callistemon is being mapped and protected.
• Record high number of drownings for 2020/21 in Victoria
  Life Saving Victoria will release the Victorian 2020 - 21 Drowning Report
• Demolishing of Latrobe City Visitor Information Centre building decision triggers community meeting
  Council attended a meeting organised and led by the community to discuss the future of the Latrobe Visitor Information Centre building, the former Methodist Church.
• Sutton Street $1.9M reconstruction in Warragul gets underway
  Road reconstruction, widening, and footpath works are underway on Sutton Street, Warragul.
• Dedicated hospice facility in the Latrobe Valley back on the agenda with the help of Russell Northe
  Member for Morwell Russell Northe has this week in parliament called upon the Health Minister and the Government to commit to establishing a dedicated hospice facility in the Latrobe Valley.
• Bullock Island bridge replacement progressing well and well worth $5M funding from federal government
  Federal government provided $5 million for the Bullock Island bridge replacement and associated road works which is part of the master plan for the popular island.
• Leadership training providers in West and South Gippsland needed to apply for federal Building Resilient Regional Leaders Initiative pilot program
  Applications for funding to support current and emerging regional leaders to develop leadership and resilience skills are now open,eligible training providers are encouraged to send their applications for the grant.
• Free flu vaccines shots from National Immunisation Program start 10 May in Bass Coast Shire so book now
  Bass Coast Shire Council's Influenza immunisation program will begin in May, which offers free flu vaccinations through the National Immunisation Program.
• Gippslanders should hold Dan Andrews to his promise to stop Labor's destructive policy of sudden, statewide lockdowns
  Andrews government still not giving a plan to end the uncertainty of lockdown.
• Wellington Shire Council will only allow fully vaccinated people into its buildings post COVID-19 vaccination target
  How people interact with Wellington Shire Council services will change in coming days when Victoria meets its 80% Covid-19 vaccination target.
• Gippsland lifesaver Barrie Smith of Seaspray and Alpine First Aid and Training recognised in Life Saving Victoria Awards of Excellence
  Local lifesavers and facilities from the Gippsland region have been recognised in Life Saving Victoria's (LSV's) 2021 Awards of Excellence.
• Latrobe City Council calls to preserve Lake Narracan following the closure of Yallourn Power Station in 2028
  Latrobe City Council will make a submission to the State Government calling to preserve Lake Narracan's weir and water levels following the closure of Yallourn Power Station in 2028.
• Need for a Drug Court to be established Latrobe Valley highlighted by Russell Northe
  Member for Morwell, Russell Northe has again highlighted in State Parliament the need for a Drug Court to be established in the Latrobe Valley.
• Public notices to stay public in a win for country newspapers and regional communities
  The state Labor government's attempt to hide government changes from regional communities and axe an important source of revenue for local newspapers has been stopped by The Nationals in Victorian Parliament.
• LED tactile paving installed in Trafalgar's street intersection footpath by Regional Roads Victoria is a first for Gippsland
  Safety for pedestrians and drivers are being enhanced through the LED tactile paving.
• Gippsland Performing Arts Centre program ready for March 2022 opening
  The stage is almost set for world-class shows and entertainment as construction of the Gippsland Performing Arts Centre (GPAC) nears completion ready for the March 2022 opening.
• Russell Northe calls for pedestrian safety improvements at Grey Street Primary School in Traralgon CBD
  Member for Morwell Russell Northe has used Question Time in Parliament this week to highlight the need for school pedestrian safety improvements in and around Grey Street Primary School which is located in the heart of the Traralgon CBD.
• Leongatha and Korumburra railway precinct developments get total of $6M funding from Regional Infrastructure and Building Better Regions
  South Gippsland Shire Council received confirmation that the State Government will support the development of the Leongatha and Korumburra railway precincts.
• Mallacoota and District Recovery Association to get two short term modular homes from Homes Victoria by June 2022
  Two short term modular homes will be installed by Homes Victoria at Mallacoota by June 2022 with 10 public new homes to follow that will be a combination of social and affordable housing.
• Proposals and ideas wanted on how to best use federal funding from 'Local Jobs Program' for Gippsland
  Support program on improving jobseeker skills and employment pathways.
• Desperate Triple-Zero calls unanswered and long ambulance waits from result from Andrews Labor government
  Crisis in Victoria's health system that's being ignored by the Andrews Labor government.
• Federal funding for Baw Baw Shire to increase protection from extreme weather events like bushfires and floods
  Governments have invested in local projects under the Risk and Resilience Grants Program to further protect our communities.
• Pakenham railway line to have boom gate removed by 2025
  The Andrews Labor Government will make Melbourne's longest train line level crossing-free, with the last five dangerous and congested level crossings on the Pakenham line to be gone for good by 2025.
• Funding for surf lifesavers throughout Gippsland discussed by Darren Chester and Life Saving Victoria CEO Catherine Greaves
  Discussion with the lifesaving clubs and members for ongoing funding for local surf lifesavers.
• Tell your mobile dropouts, blackspots and poor connections to the 'Connecting Victoria' online survey
  The people of Gippsland have been given a unique opportunity to name the dropouts, the blackspots and the poor digital connections that impede their ability to live, work and play.