Gippsland › Latest news › Melina Bath MP

Emergency services personnel denied COVID-19 vaccine priority in Latrobe Valley

Emergency services workers removed from vaccine priority list in Victoria by the Andrews Government.

By news@gippsland - 16th September 2021 - Back to News

A Latrobe Valley CFA volunteer has shockingly been denied a second COVID vaccine at a walk-in State Government run vaccination hub. The CFA volunteer was refused entry at the walk-in counter after being told the Andrews Government was now prioritising the vaccination of construction workers.

CFA volunteers and other emergency services workers should be the priority to complete the COVID-19 vaccines but that hasn't happened, they are the first ones to put their lives at stake to save other people's lives

Eligibility and priority

Under the Priority groups for COVID-19 Vaccination Program, critical and high-risk workers, such as police and emergency services personnel are classified as a priority group and could walk into state run clinics to receive their vaccinations.

Under questioning in State Parliament today by The Nationals Member for Eastern Victoria Region, Melina Bath, Labor's Minister for Emergency Services, Jaclyn Symes refused to answer why emergency services personnel were no longer eligible for priority vaccinations at Victoria's state run vaccination clinics.

Denying volunteers from completing vaccinations

Ms Bath said it is unjustifiable that frontline emergency services workers have been removed from the vaccine priority list in Victoria by the Andrews Government. "It's disgraceful that the Andrews Government policy is deliberately denying CFA volunteers from completing their Covid vaccination program at the state's walk-in clinics. The rights of emergency services workers to be vaccinated as a priority must be reinstated." Said Ms Bath.

Ms Bath also said, "Emergency services are essential frontline workers and they must continue to have prioritised access for both their first and second vaccinations at all state run clinics. Our CFA volunteers play a critical role in our frontline emergency response including attending road accidents and fires, they should not be denied access to the vaccine and should never be shunted to the back of the queue."

Pictures from Ambulance Victoria Facebook page.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

• 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.
• Orbost Club Hotel wall mural demonstrates gratitude to emergency services and defence force assisted during the Black Summer bushfires
  Mural on Orbost Club Hotel wall by Tracey Solomon as an artistic gratitude to the emergency service crews and defence force personnel.
• AusNet Services developing infrastructure to support Gippsland Renewable Energy Zone (GREZ) to Wellington Shire Council
  AusNet Services today presented its plans for developing infrastructure to support Gippsland's Renewable Energy Zone (GREZ) to Wellington Shire Council.
• AusNet Services develop transmission lines so Gippsland Renewable Energy Zone (G-REZ) will connect to national electricity market
  Committee for Gippsland welcomes plans for additional transmission infrastructure in Gippsland which will support new energy investment into the region while creating employment opportunities for locals.
• 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.
• Traralgon Creek residents still await the Emergency Management Victoria response to flood mitigation and failed warning system
  The flooding damage across the community was profound with significant damage to homes, farms, businesses, sporting and community organisations, roads and essential infrastructure.
• Will outreach services be offered by new mental health centres being established in Bairnsdale and Orbost?
  More details and information being sought on the health and well being that are to be established.
• Latrobe City Council Aged Care and Services to undergo significant changes from July 2022
  Council services will undergo significant changes across Latrobe City with council set to transfer the Aged Care and Home and Community Care Program for Younger People services to new providers in July 2022.
• 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.
• East Gippsland Council calls communities to help create emergency response plans called a Local Incident Management Plan (LIMP)
  Preparing local communities for emergencies particularly on knowing what to do during fire and storm hits.
• Serious findings by Inspector General of Emergency Management report cannot wait until 2024
  Recommendations from a review of the bushfires that ravaged the region will not be acted on by the Andrews Labor government.
• 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.
• Gippsland Water draft Price Submission to the Essential Services Commission ready for community feedback sought in early July
  More than 3,500 customers have helped shape Gippsland Water's plans and pricing for the next five years.
• Baw Baw Shire Council Aged and Disability Services to transition from July 2022
  Decision to cease the delivery of meals services, home maintenance, home modifications, social support groups and volunteer programs will be transitioned to delivery by other providers.
• Baw Baw Shire Council continues face-to-face essential services for unvaccinated residents but not discretionary
  Baw Baw Shire Council will continue to provide face-to-face access to its Drouin Customer Service Centre for all residents, regardless of vaccination status.
• Federal support for farmers in East Gippsland and Wellington through the On-farm Emergency Water Infrastructure Rebate Scheme
  The Coalition Government is bolstering support for farmers in East Gippsland and Wellington through the On-farm Emergency Water Infrastructure Rebate Scheme.
• Nationals plan for new hospitals and more health services to fill shortages in regional Victoria
  New and upgraded hospitals and more beds to treat vulnerable Victorians desperate to shake the insidious claws of drug and alcohol addiction will change lives and save lives.
• 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.
• Not clear how Gippsland and Latrobe Valley hospitals performing during a pandemic after health services fail to finalise annual reports
  The community has no clear idea of how local regional hospitals are performing during a pandemic after nearly 60 country health services failed to finalise their annual reports.
• Extra $1.6 million for critical child care services in West and South Gippsland
  Government assistance committed to giving access to families for a quality child care.
• Vaccine passports must be defeated as removes their basic human right of freedom of movement
  COVID-19 vaccine "passports" threaten human rights.
• 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.
• South Gippsland Shire Council encourages community to help shape projects and services with 'Your say South Gippsland' online service
  Your Say South Gippsland is a one-stop shop for all Council feedback opportunities goes live!
• Vaccine mandates without reasonable exemptions are not only unconscionable - they are criminal
  Such restrictions must be necessary and proportionate to the risk and balanced against individual rights.
• Coal mine rehabilitation made a priority for Latrobe Valley from Victorian government amendment to Mineral Resources Act
  The Andrews Labor government is improving the management of coal mine land in the Latrobe Valley once production ceases.
• 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.
• Advocacy Priority list endorsed and several important grant applications supported by Bass Coast Shire Council
  Revised and updated advocacy priorities that will seek funding.
• Lower bills for Gippsland Water customers over next five years touted in latest Essential Services Commission price submission
  Gippsland Water customers could see lower bills and increased value under its draft proposal for the next five years.
• Community feedback wanted on proposed sale of Hazelwood House in Churchill to Quantum Support Services by Latrobe City Council
  Latrobe City Council is inviting community feedback on a proposal to sell Hazelwood House in Churchill.
• Marlo Hotel denied access to the Licenced Hospitality Venue Fund and offered wellbeing and financial counselling instead
  The Marlo Hotel has been refused state government financial support that was intended to keep businesses afloat over the Coronavirus lockdown period.
• Gippsland's priority projects August 2021 update stated by One Gippsland Chair Brett Tessari
  The One Gippsland alliance is celebrating its first birthday this month, and we are excited about the future of our region with the guidance and collaboration of our board.
• 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.
• Baw Baw Shire Council securing priority infrastructure funding to meet demands of growing population from Russell Broadbent
  Baw Baw Shire Council advocacy efforts, securing support needed to meet the growing demands of an exploding population.
• Why Russell Broadbent used right to choose Ivermectin and vaccine alternatives to help recovery from his COVID-19 infection
  Russell Broadbent has been open and transparent about being COVID-19 vaccine free, becoming infected with COVID-19 and then his choice to use alternative treatments like Ivermectin against COVID-19.
• Latrobe Valley Bus Lines to introduce electric busses as part of $20M three-year zero emissions trial
  Latrobe Valley Bus Lines will introduce the first electric bus in 2022, which is expected to travel on nine existing bus routes across the Latrobe Valley.
• Latrobe Valley Authority (LVA) gets $7.5M additional funding via Victorian Ladder - Step Up program to create more jobs
  The Andrews Labor government will keep helping create more jobs in the Latrobe Valley, with another $7.5 million investment in the Latrobe Valley Authority (LVA).
• 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.
• 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.
• Voting on Victoria's worst roads to help develop a priority list to give to the Roads Minister encouraged to all Victorian motorists
  Interim results of a safety campaign asking drivers to name Victoria's worst road have called out roads in eastern and central Victoria as the most dangerous, but there's still more time to have your say.
• Veterans' mental health needs get $20M commitment to modernise facilities from Victorian Liberals and Nationals
  After more than a decade, veterans and emergency services personnel will again have access to specialised care for mental ill health and post-traumatic stress disorder episodes.
• Latrobe Valley Barramundi Farming by Opal and Mainstream at Maryvale Mill get $30M federal funding
  Latrobe City Council welcomes the federal government's $30 million announcement for Opal and Mainstream's Latrobe Valley Aquaculture project at Maryvale Mill.
• 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.
• Latrobe Valley has four times higher drug crimes than Ballarat where a Drug Court is located but has not Drug Court itself says Russell Northe
  Member for Morwell Russell Northe has this week in Parliament questioned Premier Daniel Andrews on when a Magistrates Drug Court might be established in the Latrobe Valley.
• 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.
• Latrobe Valley Jobs Fair in Morwell on 10 March to bring job seekers and employment providers together
  Job seekers from across the Gippsland Employment Region will have the chance to chat to employers face to face when the Morrison Government's Latrobe Valley.
• Omeo Caravan Park remedial works get high priority from East Gippsland Shire Council so opened in time for Easter
  East Gippsland Shire Council is committed to having the Omeo Caravan Park reopened in time for Easter.
• Latrobe City Australia Day Awards 2022 to Dean Sutton, Bridie Byrne and Martin Dyt
  Local legends, outstanding events and champion community services have been acknowledged at the 2022 Latrobe City Australia Day Awards ceremony, held on Sunday following COVID-19 related delays.
• Darren Chester says Latrobe Valley owed explanation from Dan Andrews on failed promise for 500 electric vehicle manufacturing jobs
  Latrobe Valley community wants to know why members of the parliament refuse to participate in a local task force.
• Pandemic frightens people but that should not stop us asking any questions like if vaccine mandates are effective and what alternative treatments are there
  Thoughts and questions about the mandatory vaccinations and vaccine passports.
• Uniting Gippsland Family Day Care in Bairnsdale and Paynesville Neighbourhood Child Care Centre get $380,000 for child care services for East Gippsland
  Two child care providers in East Gippsland have received a welcome funding boost to meet the needs of local families.
• Latrobe Regional Hospital expands Mobile Targeted Assertive Outreach mental health team
  Government investment for services and support for young Victorians.
• Stars align in Latrobe Valley as Women's Big Bash Cricket featuring home-grown Nicole Faltum heads to Moe
  The Big Bash summer of cricket will sizzle in the City of Latrobe with the Melbourne Stars to make their WBBL debut at Moe's Ted Summerton Oval on October 23 and 24.
• Latrobe Regional Hospital to host Mind Australia pop-up community mental health service and cater to Gippsland
  Additional funding to support the mental health workforce for better and more accessible services as the Latrobe Regional Hospital to host one of the pop-up community mental health services.
• Latrobe City major infrastructure and hard waste service expansion gets $40M through 2022/23 capital works program
  Investment in major infrastructure and an expansion of hard waste services feature in Latrobe City Council's 2022/23 Budget.
• 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.
• Gippsland and Latrobe Valley to benefit from federal Clean Hydrogen Industrial Hubs fund
  The Federal Government's $1.2 billion hydrogen investment is set to boost economic activity and jobs in regional Australia.
• Come sing with Latrobe Valley Community Choir and our new music director Dr Kevin Cameron
  We are excited to be returning to in person rehearsals on Tuesday nights, with our new Music Director Dr Kevin Cameron
• Latrobe City Business Chamber formed to bring together local valley businesses and industry groups
  Latrobe City Council is supporting the creation of a single business association to strengthen the voice of the business community.
• 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.
• Bairnsdale residents getting improved access to Centrelink and Medicare services
  Bairnsdale residents will have improved access to Centrelink and Medicare services when the Services Australia Service Centre in Bairnsdale undergoes an upgrade.
• Latrobe City residents ages 16 to 25 are encouraged to be part of a creative panel to develop arts via Valley Collective program
  Latrobe City Council is inviting young people to be part of a creative panel to develop arts programs through the Valley Collective program.
• 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.
• More jobs in Latrobe Valley as Govhub opens for business
  GovHub to open and create more jobs in the community and support economic growth.
• Tilly's Dream and Churchill North Primary School in Latrobe City get $110,000 boost for child care services
  Two childcare providers in the Latrobe Valley have received a welcome funding boost to meet the needs of local families.
• Latrobe City congradulates Harriet Shing Eastern Victoria MP becoming Minister for Water, Minister for Regional Development and Minister for Equality
  Latrobe City Council welcomes the news of Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing MP announcement/appointment as Minister for Water, Minister for Regional Development and Minister for Equality.
• Latrobe Regional Gallery gets LED lighting upgrade of $71,724 investment through Victoria's Regional Collections Access Program
  Latrobe City Council welcomes the Victorian government's $71,724 investment in LED lighting upgrades at Latrobe Regional Gallery.
• 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.
• Latrobe City Council seeks to attract manufacturers for Australian Defence Force to Latrobe Valley
  Latrobe City Council is seeking to raise the City’s manufacturing profile by contacting businesses in the defence supply chain from across Australia, with the intent of attracting new opportunities to the municipality.
• Latrobe Regional Hospital gets $217M funding for its expansion through the Victorian Health Building Authority (VHBA)
  Latrobe Regional Hospital expansion means additional facilities that will give support to the region's increasing and complex health demands.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Latrobe City Council submits to inquiry into impacts of Hazelwood and Yallourn power stations closures
  Latrobe City Council will advocate for greater Government support for the municipality to help the region transition with less power stations.
• Latrobe City advocates key projects to further enhance local economy as 2022 Victorian Election looms
  With the state election approaching, Latrobe City Council is advocating for several of our community's priorities to further enhance the prosperity of the region.
• Latrobe City Council calls on federal candidates to secure $3.25M to complete in Traralgon Flood Recovery Project
  Latrobe City Council is calling on Federal candidates to invest in the Traralgon Flood Recovery Project across Traralgon Recreation Reserve and Glenview Park.
• Latrobe City Transition Taskforce to be established to help minimise the effects of the closure of power stations
  Latrobe City Council is acting now to minimise the significant effects of the closure of power stations upon the municipality in the future.
• Latrobe City Council encourages community to connect through culture and recognise Cultural Diversity Week
  Latrobe City Council is encouraging the community to connect through culture this week to recognise Cultural Diversity Week.
• Latrobe Literary Festival 'Power of Words' writing competition open for entries until 26 August 2022
  Latrobe Literary Festival launches 'Power of Words', entries are open for the competition until 26 August. A prize of $500 will be awarded to the winner.
• Latrobe City reappoints Steven Piasente as Chief Executive Officer for another five year term
  Latrobe City Council has reappointed Chief Executive Officer Steven Piasente for a five-year term.
• Latrobe Visitor Information Centre to be relocated to Gippsland Performing Arts Centre from 25 February 2022
  The Latrobe Visitor Information Centre will open seven days a week at the Gippsland Performing Arts Centre from Friday 25 February.
• Latrobe City to continue to operate the Moe and Yallourn North outdoor pools
  Latrobe City Council will continue to operate the Moe and Yallourn North Outdoor Pools following a review of the 2020/21 season.
• Latrobe City Council calls for Victorian government to support for timber industry
  Release of code of practice for timber industry that has been on a long delayed by the state government.
• Minister Murray Watt and Senator Raff Ciccone visit Traralgon for Flood Recovery Project and Princes Highway Bypass
  Federal Minister for Emergency Management Murray Watt and Federal Senator for Victoria Raff Ciccone visited Traralgon yesterday to learn more about the effects of the 2021 flood and storm event and ongoing recovery works.
• Latrobe City Youth Council inviting new members for 2022
  Latrobe City Youth Council is seeking new members for the 2022 term to build their leadership skills, make new connections and provide input into Council's decision making
• Latrobe Regional Gallery to hold exhibition for eight-metre wide painting reflecting iconic Hazelwood Power Station from 2 April to 10 July 2022
  A new exhibition at Latrobe Regional Gallery (LRG) reflects on the role the iconic Hazelwood Power Station had in the lives of Latrobe City locals over several generations.
• 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.
• Latrobe City in Gippsland ready to host 2026 Commonwealth Games events and get economic and tourism boost
  Premier's announcing Latrobe City as host city to the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
• Vexatious court claims closes timber coupe for training Victorian essential service personnel at TAFE Gippsland
  Timber coupe being used by TAFE Gippsland for training Victorian essential service personnel has been targeted by vexatious court claims resulting in its closure.
• 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.
• Latrobe City Council seeks $4.25M federal funding to complete Traralgon Flood Recovery project
  Council endorsed key master plans for Latrobe City's Flood Recovery Project at its meeting on Monday 4 July.
• Latrobe Regional Airport looking to take-off under plan that sets out a long-term framework for development
  Council seeking expansion development opportunities for Latrobe Regional Airport that will help them support and grow the aviation operations.
• Latrobe Regional Gallery July 2021
  Update on the Latrobe Regional Performing Arts series or activities.
• Latrobe City Community Fun Run 2022 organised by Traralgon Harriers to raise money for Gippsland Rotary Centenary House
  The Traralgon Harriers' 24th annual DFP Recruitment Latrobe City Fun Run and Walk held on Sunday, 27 March 2022.
• Latrobe City celebrates a range of fun over school holidays starting 24 June to 10 July 2022
  From 24 June - 10 July, a range of fun, free and low-cost school holiday activities will be held across Latrobe City Council's libraries, leisure centres, early learning centres and creative venues through the Stay Local program.
• 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.
• Latrobe Regional Gallery in Morwell plans large exhibition to celebrate 50th birthday
  Exhibition to be held in celebrating Latrobe Regional Gallery's 50th birthday.
• Latrobe Regional Performing Arts July 2021
  Series of new events and performance at Latrobe Performing Arts Centre for the month of July.
• 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.
• East Gippsland residents invited to have say on mobile and internet services
  East Gippsland Shire Council is inviting locals to have their say on how to ensure secure, fast and reliable internet and mobile services for everyone in the shire.
• Latrobe Literary Festival at Traralgon Library with Hugh McGinlay & Esmerelda, Stephen Johnson and Vikki Petraitis from 17-28 May 2022
  Bookmark the 17th through 28th of May for this year's mind-morphing Latrobe Literary Festival.
• More ambulances and paramedics for Latrobe Valley from Andrews Labor government
  More ambulances and paramedics for the Latrobe Valley to ensure locals get the best care.
• Latrobe Regional Gallery August 2021
  50 Years: 50 Artists is a major exhibition to commemorate 50 years of Latrobe Regional Gallery from 4 September to 7 November
• Latrobe City Stadium in Morwell to be upgraded in preparation to host events for 2026 Commonwealth Games
  With Gippsland officially announced as one of four regional hubs for the 2026 Commonwealth Games, the Andrews Labor government is getting on with plans to deliver this global sporting event.
• Latrobe City calls for input into storm and review of flood response to learn lessons for next time
  Storm and flood clean-up program funded by the government to provide service to property owners affected by storm and flooding without any cost.
• Latrobe City Council adopts a 2021/25 Council Plan and 2022/31 Financial Plan with notes on impact from Yallourn Power Station closure
  Community sets course for the future.
• Latrobe City Transition Taskforce starts on plan to move away from traditional power generation and a reduced timber industry
  Taskforce establishment to plan for the economic diversification and investment opportunirties.
• Latrobe City community invited to 'Buy a Seat' to support local theatre at Gippsland Performing Arts Centre
  Program aims to support free education and public programs, helping to provide greater access to our community.
• Latrobe City reminding businesses they can still access help from being affected by COVID-19 pandemic
  Programs that could help local business owners in improving their businesses.
• Latrobe City Council re-opens Cumberland Park kindergarten after negative results for COVID-19
  Identified close contact resulted negative from COVID-19.
• Latrobe City Youth Council encourages healthy eating with 'Fab food marvellous mood' campaign'
  Food campaign to help educate the young people about healthy diet that lead to happier and healthier mental and physical wellness.
• Latrobe City joins celebration of National Reconciliation Week from 27 May to 3 June 2022
  Be Brave and Make Change happen, Join us in the celebration this National Reconciliation Week.
• Latrobe City preschool children support people living with Motor Neurone disease
  Fund raising activity to support and raise awareness for the debilitating diseases, Frontotemporal Dementia and Motor Neurone Disease (MND).
• Latrobe City Council announces community representatives for safety committee
  Council announcing the representative of the new community safety committee.
• Long grass inspections are being done in Bass Coast Shire so keep up the mowing
  Bass Coast Shire Council's Emergency Management Officers are currently carrying out long grass inspections, which will continue into the new year.
• More alcohol and drug detox beds needed in Latrobe Valley says Russell Northe
  Mr Northe indicated this had been a long running issue with many local individuals, families and service providers frustrated by the lack of services in a community that desperately needs detox beds.
• 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.
• 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.
• Baw Baw and Latrobe City community organisations share over $1.3 million funding from Shade Grants program
  Ensuring the community from the harmful rays of the sun.
• 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.
• Applications for Latrobe City Tourism and Major Events Advisory Committee are open until 18 May 2022
  Invitation for the community to send their expression of interest with regards to the Latrobe City Tourism and Major Events Advisory Committee.
• Northe calls for Gippsland hospice care facility in Latrobe Valley and proposed Hazelwood House in Churchill
  Message from Mr Russell Northe MP to Gippsland Hospice Family to advocate for the consideration of a dedicated hospice for the region.
• Summer fun at Latrobe City libraries with Return Yourself to the Library and 'Big Summer Read' programs
  Encouraging children not to just go back to the library but also to borrow and read books.
• Low indigenous vaccination rates risk widening the gap in Latrobe Valley and Gippsland
  Vaccine hesitancy and testing hesitancy in Victoria's Indigenous communities' risks pushing people further into disadvantage under the Andrews Labor Government's plan to offer more freedoms to people who are fully-vaccinated.
• Baw Baw Shire Council to continue transition out of direct aged and disability support services
  Council is proceeding with the decision reached in March 2020 to transition out of delivering direct care aged and disability support services from 30 June 2022.
• 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.
• Traralgon South Recreation Reserve upgraded with $340,584 from the Latrobe Valley Authority and $312,202 from Latrobe City Council
  After a brief construction adjournment, the courts are back in session at the Traralgon South Recreation Reserve.
• Celebrate and shop locally in Latrobe CIty as part of Main Streets of Australia Week from 16 to 22 May 2022
  Latrobe City Council is celebrating Main Streets of Australia Week from 16 - 22 May, encouraging the community to support small businesses by shopping local.
• Refusal to support immediate reforms on mental health and wellbeing boost for young Victorians by Andrews Labor government
  A plan to boost youth mental health services by 2026 is years too late for children who are suffering right now and could benefit from other immediate reforms that the Andrews Labor government has refused to support.
• Smart Enough Factory program for Latrobe City small to medium businesses gets $1.36M funding from Victorian government
  The Smart Enough Factory program got underway in Latrobe City recently, supporting manufacturers to bring digital technologies into their operations to drive value and productivity.
• Wellington, East Gippsland and Latrobe City Councils share in $7.7M funding from Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program
  Three Gippsland councils will share in $7.7 million in additional Federal Government funding to undertake local priority projects.
• Please don't hang up when the Latrobe City Council Community Satisfaction Survey calls
  Latrobe City Council residents may soon receive a phone call inviting them to participate in the Victorian Government's annual Community Satisfaction Survey, undertaken by National Field Services.
• 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.
• Hard waste removal for Latrobe City starts Monday 4 April until 15 April 2022
  Latrobe City Council's twice-yearly booked hard waste collection is set to start on Monday, 2 May.
• 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.
• Robert Burns of Churchill promotes Latrobe City for 20 years as volunteer at local visitor information centre
  Latrobe City Council has commemorated the contribution of a volunteer who has given 20 years of service.
• Traralgon and Warragul to benefit from Andrews Victorian government rural residential aged care facilities renewal program
  The Victorian Government is upgrading public sector residential aged care services across Eastern Victoria, creating new jobs and ensuring hundreds of older Victorians continue to receive the care and comfort they deserve.
• 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.
• 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.
• Impact from archaic seclusion and restraint approach on complex mental patients ignored by Andrews Labor government
  VMIAC found Victoria's mental health services were using physical restraints and seclusion more often in 2021 than the previous year, with 56 percent of all services reporting an increase.
• Community assurance in Latrobe City required as AGL Demerger dismissed
  Latrobe City Council is calling for community certainty after AGL Energy revoked its demerger plan to split its generator and retailer arms into AGL Australia and Accel Energy.
• Gippsland not-for-profit kindergardens can apply for grants from $7.5M from state government fund to improve ventilation
  Victorian Government is helping kindergarten services across Eastern Victoria reduce the risk of coronavirus transmission, with support for better ventilation measures to help keep children and staff COVIDSafe.
• Shocking increase in ketamine and heroin abuse but Andrews Labor government cuts $40M from prevention and treatment
  Andrews Labor government will slash 100 jobs from services to help people addicted to alcohol or other drugs as part of a $39.8m funding cut inflicted on the completely-overwhelmed sector.
• Darren Chester urges to new prime minister to visit Latrobe Valley and expands project funding
  Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester has written to new Prime Minister Anthony Albanese regarding the funding of local projects which are critical to the future of the region.
• Bowls Victorian Open to be held in Latrobe City on 25 March to 2 April 2023
  Bowls Victoria, together with Latrobe City Council, are incredibly excited to officially announce a landmark 5-year agreement for the staging of the Victorian Open, commencing March 2023.
• 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.
• Youth Prevention and Recovery Care Centre (YPARC) at Parkville opened but not being used due to workforce shortages
  Under-staffed mental health services can't provide the care and preventative support Victorian kids so desperately need.
• Gippsland Rail Line upgrade that will strengthen Latrobe City funded $532.8M by federal and Victorian governments
  Latrobe City Council is pleased the federal and Victorian governments are investing in local rail connections that will benefit Latrobe City residents with improvement works at Morwell and Traralgon stations underway.
• Russell Northe calls for funding for Latrobe City Sports and Entertainment Stadium to become football centre of excellence
  Call for government funding to utilise the sports entertainment centre and give good potential to help make Gippsland to become the football heartland.
• Help catalogue biodiversity in Latrobe City as part of Great Southern BioBlitz 2021
  The hunt is on to catalogue and celebrate Latrobe City's biodiversity as the Great Southern BioBlitz 2021 blooms across the hemisphere.
• Further support for Gippsland job seekers with the extension of employment facilitator services
  Funding to support and employ local job-seekers and facilitators.
• Innovation centre boosts the Latrobe Valley economy
  Innovation centre that helps in boosting the creation of jobs and the region's economy, supporting the development that is beneficial to the valley.
• 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.
• Local residents must have a voice in Traralgon Creek flood review Mr Northe says
  Residents wanting to better understand why the emergency and evacuation systems failed to function.