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Andrews Labor government mismanagement of major projects raises red flags to regional Victoria when hosting 2026 Commonwealth Games

Long-term strategic planning of a 2026 Commonwealth Games will be crucial if regional Victoria is to reap the full benefit of infrastructure upgrades and promotional activities that the event will require.

By news@gippsland - 12th April 2022 - Back to News

Country communities were a driving force behind the games bid and it's crucial this ground work is used as a foundation for planning going forward. Leader of The Nationals and Shadow Minister for Regional Victoria Peter Walsh commended the efforts of country communities, but raised red flags at state Labor's ability to actually secure the long-term benefits.

Event operators face significant uncertainty and often have been excluded from critical financial support without a new path forward, many events in Victoria will be forever lost

Reverse to Labor's cuts

Mr Walsh said, "Bringing the Commonwealth Games to regional Victoria will give our kids a chance to see their sporting heroes in action to inspire the next generation of home-grown local athletes. Two years of pandemic have battered our regional economies, with the return of major events and tourism a crucial part of recovering and rebuilding."

"The state Labor government's shameful legacy of waste and mismanaged major projects raises red flags that regional Victoria risks missing out on key benefits of hosting a global sporting event. A regional Commonwealth Games will require upgrades to sporting facilities, but it must also include a program of works on road, rail and to improve access to public transport in the regions."

"A reverse to Labor's cuts on roads asset maintenance - which totaled $191 million last year alone - will be needed to ensure athletes, support staff and crowds can safely and smoothly travel around the state." Mr Walsh continued.

Regional hubs to be established

While the opening ceremony will be held at Melbourne's MCG, regional hubs will be established at:

• Geelong
• Ballarat
• Bendigo
• Gippsland region

Mr Walsh said communities, like Shepparton, have put in a power of work to secure a role in the games and must not be overlooked. "The Games will bring in crowds to spend money locally in our retail, accommodation and tourism businesses or to refuel at a sausage sizzle run by the hard-working volunteers of our proud community groups."

A future Victorian Liberal Nationals government will create a designated task force within government to oversee, support and be a strong advocate for the events sector

Bringing major events back

Mr Walsh said, "Bringing major events back to our country communities is critical for recovering and rebuilding strong regional economies and generating new careers and job opportunities. And while the Commonwealth Games will deliver a major economic boost down the track, we can't forget that immediate, targeted assistance is still needed to recover and rebuild." Mr Walsh concluded.

The Victorian Liberals and Nationals have announced a comprehensive plan for the future, including a $300 million local events recovery plan to jumpstart our iconic events sector and revitalise local communities.

Pictures from Commonwealth Games Australia Facebook page.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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• 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.
• 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.
• State government recycling plan to significantly impact Bass Coast Shire Council approach to waste over next ten years
  Reforms that are going to significantly impact Bass Coast's approach to waste in the coming years.
• Morrison government's $4.5B NBN upgrade will ensure West and South Gippsland will benefit from ultra-fast broadband by 2023
  NBN Co has announced a seventh tranche of suburbs and towns across Australia that will become eligible to upgrade to NBN's Fibre to the Premises (FTTP).
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Additional 2000 qualified professionals for mental health workforce secured by Andrews Labor government backflip
  Kids struggling with their mental health will finally get access to extra workers, with the Liberals and Nationals securing reforms today that will unlock 2000 counsellors to work in Victorian schools.
• Federal government grants MediPharm Labs in Wonthaggi to $466,577 and create more local manufacturing jobs
  Grant to modernize a local company, MediPharm Labs to create greater efficiency and competitiveness.
• Gippsland government schools can apply for state funded solar panels through Greener Government School Buildings program
  Applications for the school solar panel system are now open.
• Shooting clubs across Gippsland to benefit from Victorian government's 'Shooting Sports Facilities Program'
  Shooting clubs across Eastern Victoria are celebrating after securing funding to upgrade their facilities.
• Bellbird Park soccer pitch gets $800,000 funding from Victorian government through Local Sports Infrastructure fund
  Bellbird Park's main soccer pitch is set for redevelopment thanks to a $800,000 funding boost from the Victorian government's Local Sports Infrastructure Fund.
• 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.
• 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.
• Independent MPs help Labor make it harder to own a home in the Latrobe Valley and Gippsland
  Independent MPs have joined with Labor MPs to pass a new housing tax.
• Victorian including Gippsland farmers' livelihood at risk while worker deal is stranded on Premier's desk
  The Labor government is putting the agricultural sector into crisis, dismissing famers' calls for help.
• 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.
• Urgent need to invest into neglected and crumbling Victorian regional roads stated in key report from Infrastructure Australia
  A new report, released today, makes a mockery of the Victorian Roads Minister's claim that our state's road network is now 'safer and smoother'.
• 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.
• 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.
• Victorian businesses and community organisations can apply for $2,000 grants from COVIDSafe Outdoor Activation Voucher Program
  The Victorian Government is helping businesses and the community breathe new life into local neighbourhoods as vaccination progressively delivers greater freedoms across the state from Friday.
• Applications open for Gippsland Recycling centres grants up to $500,000 from Victorian government $40.9M Regional Recycling Fund
  Recycling centres across regional Victoria including in Gippsland can apply for grants of up to $500,000 for infrastructure upgrades as part of Round One of the $40.9 million Regional Recycling Fund.
• Victorian power saving bonus of $250 extended until 30 June 2022
  The Victorian Government is extending the popular $250 Power Saving Bonus payment to support more vulnerable households doing it tough with energy bills.
• Victorian women lost their job at nearly five times the rate of men during pandemic
  Government has a responsibility to ensure each and every Victorian has the best opportunity to recover and rebuild: mentally, socially and economically.
• Part of Gippsland Performing Arts Centre $42M redevelopment opens up opportunities for regional creative community workers
  The Andrews Labor government is supporting local creative workers and community activities in Traralgon, with the unveiling of new spaces, facilities, and training programs at Gippsland Performing Arts Centre.
• Latrobe Regional Hospital expands Mobile Targeted Assertive Outreach mental health team
  Government investment for services and support for young Victorians.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Gippsland to share in $3B Victorian economy boost from 2026 Commonwealth Games
  Gippsland is set to shine on the world sporting stage in 2026, with the region being confirmed as one of the four regional hubs to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
• 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.
• Worker shortage will derail Victorian and Gippsland farms and agriculture businesses
  The Andrews Labor Government has failed to step up to the plate to solve a desperate shortage of workers across Victorian farms and agriculture businesses.
• 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.
• Traralgon and Morwell stations get major upgrades as part of $504M Gippsland railway line funding from Victorian and federal governments
  Final designs have been released showcasing the major train station upgrades at Traralgon and Morwell Stations.
• Estimated 500 brumbies to be shot at Barmah Forest admitted by Andrews Labor government
  The Victorian Government has confirmed that it plans to eradicate our brumby population, a move strongly opposed by Gippsland East Nationals MP, Tim Bull.
• Victorian Country roads miss out again as further $24M has been cut from road asset management program
  Country roads miss out again, while the regional development budget decimated the hopes of regional Victorians for significant funding contributions.
• 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.
• Michael Whelan from Bass Coast Shire council joins Victorian government 2022 Mayoral Advisory Panel
  Bass Coast Shire Council has again been selected to represent other Victorian Councils on the state government's 2022 Mayoral Advisory Panel.
• 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.
• Darren Chester calls for federal and state governments to list Great Alpine Road as strategically importance so additional funding can be accessed
  Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester says a multi-year program of upgrades is needed to improve safety on one of Gippsland's most important arterial roads.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• West Gippsland Regional Library Corporation becomes not-for-profit organisation in Bass Coast Shire
  Council working with West Gippsland Regional Library Corporation on the proposed transition to ensure the required governance changes do not affect the important service and to meet the needs and expectations of the growing community.
• 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.
• Federal program of regional grants like Building Better Regions Fund need overhaul
  The Federal Government should overhaul its regional grants funding programs which are failing to deliver fair outcomes for communities like Gippsland, according to local MP Darren Chester.
• Workshop on how to win government business in Bairnsdale on 20 July 2022
  Workshop that will give local business opportunity on how to win work on major government infrastructure and construction projects.
• Cowes to Rhyll boardwalk gets $416,000 for upgrade from Victorian government regional funding
  Bass Coast Shire Council has welcomed new State Government funding towards its tracks and trails network, bringing benefits to the Bass Coast community.
• Berrys Beach Road renewal in Ventnor gets $400,000 from Victorian government and $25,000 from Bass Coast Council
  A section of Berrys Beach Road in Ventnor will be renewed by Bass Coast Shire Council in coming weeks.
• Latrobe Regional Gallery in Morwell plans large exhibition to celebrate 50th birthday
  Exhibition to be held in celebrating Latrobe Regional Gallery's 50th birthday.
• Morwell food manufacturing precinct receives $10M funding from Victorian government that will give boost for Gippsland
  Ahead of this week's State Budget the Committee for Gippsland (C4G) has welcomed the state government's $10 million investment into the Morwell Manufacturing Precinct.
• Baw Baw Shire Council secures $824,000 state government funding for road upgrades to Jacksons Track near Labertouche
  Baw Baw Shire Council has secured $824,000 in State Government funding to carry out major road upgrades to Jacksons Track near Labertouche.
• Health Advocate Jane Anderson re-appointed by state government to improve the health and wellbeing of people in Latrobe Valley
  The Victorian Government is ensuring the right leadership is in place to improve the health and wellbeing of people in the Latrobe Valley.
• Victoria's family violence crisis continues to worsen according to Independent Crime Statistics Agency
  Family violence offences in Victoria have reached harrowing highs.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Grants for creative workers open from state government' 'Sustaining Creative Workers' initiative
  The Victorian Government's Sustaining Creative Workers initiative is now open for applications, providing critical support to Victoria's independent creative sector when they need it most.
• Landmark $30M multi-use community precinct state government funding for the heart of Warragul being pursued by Baw Baw Shire Council
  Council to pursue support from the state and federal government for the multi-use community precinct that will help in the economic development and will also benefit the region.
• 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.
• Importance of regional not-for-profit aged care facilities in Gippsland
  Victoria needs more residential aged care facilities and support to meet existing and future demand from an ageing population.
• 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.
• 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
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Life saving Victoria awards members from Gippsland at Cape Paterson Surf Life Saving Club
  Life Saving Victoria (LSV) has recognised members from Bass, Gippsland and Peninsula for their outstanding achievements in operations, club services, development, training and sports during season 2021-22 at its Valuing Volunteers events.
• Eight major Gippsland businesses get research and advice through the 'Driving Gippsland's Food and Fibre Agenda' program
  Gippsland's vital food and fibre sector is set to benefit with seven local businesses selected to participate in a new innovative initiative, backed by the Andrews Labor Government.
• 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.
• Major mixed-use development in Paynesville town centre to give major economy boost
  The development in the town centre represents a new era for Paynesville, providing additional commercial floor space and apartment living that will bring new activity and vitality to the town.
• Hallora Recreation Reserve funded $300,000 for new lights from Victorian government and Baw Baw Shire Council
  Baw Baw Shire Council has secured up to $150,000 in State funding to support the installation of sports light towers and light fittings for the AFL Oval at the Hallora Recreation Reserve.
• 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.
• 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.
• Sale Oval precinct opens after $1.6M redevelopment funded by Wellington Shire Council, Coalition government and John Leslie Foundation
  Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester officially opened the Sale Oval redevelopment today alongside Wellington Shire Councillor John Tatterson and community members.
• Baw Baw Shire gets nearly $3.6M from federal government Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program
  Baw Baw Shire Council has welcomed $3.5 million in Australian government funding that will see the completion of three significant community infrastructure projects across the Shire.
• 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.
• Latrobe Regional Gallery July 2021
  Update on the Latrobe Regional Performing Arts series or activities.
• 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.
• Duplication of Princes Highway between Traralgon and Sale gets federal and Victorian government $250M funding for final stage
  Princes Highway duplication project, a major milestone with traffic switched to the new section at Flynn.
• Latrobe Regional Performing Arts July 2021
  Series of new events and performance at Latrobe Performing Arts Centre for the month of July.
• Learn CPR as Life Saving Victoria reports highest level of drowning incidents for May 2022
  Life Saving Victoria is calling on people in remote and regional communities to check safety measures and learn CPR heading into the cooler months, as data shows May has the highest period of risk for irrigation channel drownings in Victoria.
• 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).
• Great Alpine Road and Paynesville Road voted worst regional roads in Victoria in preliminary results
  Preliminary results from a state-wide survey show two roads in East Gippsland are in the top three worst regional roads in Victoria.
• Everyone to enjoy Gippsland Regional Aquatic Centre in Traralgon regardless of ability or language with introduction of Access Key
  Latrobe City Council delivers Access Key to customise accessibility to Gippsland Aquatic Centre (GRAC) in Traralgon
• East Gippsland community and sporting groups share in $900,000 from Victorian government Sporting Club Grants Program
  Nationals Member for Gippsland East Tim Bull has congratulated nine local community and sporting groups who have been successful in receiving funding under the Sporting Club Grants Program.
• Swifts Creek Recreation Reserve upgraded with $1.92M funding from federal and Victorian government Local Economic Recovery program
  Swifts Creek Recreation Reserve will undergo a much-needed upgrade thanks to Federal and State Government funding.
• New female friendly pavilion at Darnum Recreation Reserve from $500,000 grant Victorian government Local Sports Infrastructure Fund
  The netballers at Nilma Darnum Football Netball Club can say goodbye to changing in the back of the car, thanks to the completion of the new game changing female friendly pavilion at the Darnum Recreation Reserve in Darnum.
• 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.
• Strzelecki Highway between Morwell and Mirboo North gets $8.25M to improve safety and reduce travel time from Victorian 2022/23 budget
  The Andrews Labor government is improving safety and travel times along the Strzelecki Highway with a new overtaking lane along the key tourism and agricultural route.
• Bellbird Park construction funded $4.1M from Baw Baw Shire Council and Victorian Government through Growing Suburbs Fund
  The first sod has been turned at Bellbird Park to mark the commencement of works on a vibrant new multi-use pavilion and community events facility.
• 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.
• Baw Baw Civic Precinct initial development gets $3.5M funding from Victorian government Growing Suburbs Fund
  A landmark community precinct for the people of Warragul is now a step closer to reality, thanks to support from the Andrews Labor Government.
• Vixens to play two pre-season games at Traralgon's Gippsland Regional Indoor Stadium in February
  Gippsland netball fans are in for a treat this month, with the Vixens playing two pre-season games at Traralgon's Gippsland Regional Indoor Stadium in February.
• Community led projects funded $590,000 across nearly twenty townships in Baw Baw Shire Council 2022/23 budget
  17 community-requested projects across seven townships will be funded in council's new annual budget as a direct result of community submissions made during the budget consultation process.
• Morwell Foodbank hub at standstill after four years of promises from Andrews Labor government
  Lack of updates and communications with the Latrobe Valley community with regards to the promised Morwell Foodbank Hub, community seeks more information about the Morwell Foodbank Hub
• Upgrades and specialist equipment for Gippsland early childhood education centres via Victorian government Building Blocks Inclusion fund
  Upgrades to early childhood education centres and specialist equipment to help improve learning outcomes.
• 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'.
• Moe Apex Park gets $60,000 lighting upgrades from Victorian Community Safety Infrastructure grant to improve surveillance and visibility
  Families and community members can now feel safer while enjoying Moe's community parks, thanks to new lighting funded through the Andrews Labor Government's Community Crime Prevention Program.
• Rapid COVID-19 testing key for getting regional and Gippsland VLine trains back on track
  Lengthy shutdown to Victoria's regional train network is driving a push for rapid testing to be rolled out for staff across the public transport network.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Traralgon Recreation Reserve gets $2.75M for new facilities development as part of Victorian government 2022/23 budget
  Latrobe City Council has welcomed the Victorian government's budget contribution of $2.75 million towards developing new facilities at Traralgon Recreation Reserve (TRR), which is a key component of council's Traralgon Flood Recovery Project.
• Childcare should be first stage of education but government policy is making it unaffordable to most families
  Making childcare as the first stage of education, stimulating the educational environment and the educational providers.
• 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.
• Mallacoota-Genoa road gets $10M in federal government funding to improve safety and resilience
  Work to improve the resilience and safety of the Mallacoota-Genoa Road.
• Congratulations to Fiona Weigall for making Victorian Top 50 Public Sector Women as a General Manager in East Gippsland Shire Council
  The IPAA Victoria Top 50 Public Sector Women was announced at a function in Melbourne on Friday. Fiona said it was humbling to be recognised among the state's leading public sector female leaders.
• 'Buy local' for Australian Made Week and support our regional Victorian manufacturers
  Renewed push to capture new opportunities in manufacturing and drive alternative career paths in regional Victoria as part of Australian Made Week this week.
• 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.
• 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.
• Gippsland hospitality businesses will stay shut on Friday from unworkable rules imposed by Andrews Labor government
  Ease of restriction given to Victoria is not enough to keep businesses to stay open and recover.
• 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.
• West Gippsland gets more than 300 new three-and four-year-old extra kindergarten places from Victorian government
  The Andrews Labor government is helping families in West Gippsland get their kids into early childhood learning by creating more than 300 new three-and four-year-old kindergarten places.
• 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.
• 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.
• Come meet AFL legend Eddie Betts at Gippsland Regional Indoor Sports Stadium Catterick Crescent in Traralgon on 28 June 2022
  Latrobe City Libraries are excited to announce that AFL legend and anti-racism campaigner, Eddie Betts, is coming to Latrobe City to read from his children's books, sign autographs, answer questions and kick a footy around.
• 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.
• Yinnar Primary School and stadium gets $7.3M for upgrades and modernisation from Victorian 2022/23 budget
  The Andrews Labor government is making sure students at Yinnar Primary School have better learning environments, with a huge investment to deliver a major upgrade for the growing school.
• 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.
• Sale RSL receives $120,000 improvement grant from federal government under Veteran and Community Grants program
  The home of Gippsland Veterans Welfare Centre in Sale is about to receive a new roof thanks to a $120,000 Federal Government grant.
• Limited lockdowns a win for regional communities like Gippsland
  A move to use limited lockdowns, by LGA, gives some long overdue relief and certainty to regional Victorian families, businesses and communities.
• 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.
• 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'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.
• 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.
• Maffra Football Netball Club opens new facilities with shared funding from Sport and Recreation Victoria and Wellington Shire Council
  New, modern netball facilities were officially opened today at Maffra Recreation Reserve.
• Calling for applications to chair Regional Development Gippsland committee
  Positions are now open to lead the regional development committees.
• Gippsland Performing Arts Centre officially opened by Minister for Regional Development Mary-Anne Thomas as centerpiece of the $42M Latrobe Creative Precinct
  The much-anticipated Gippsland Performing Arts Centre has opened its doors to the public, with the state-of-the-art space to become a drawcard for locals and visitors bringing top acts to the region.
• South East Melbourne Phoenix migrates to Gippsland Regional Indoor Sports Stadium in Traralgon for 2022 NBL season
  South East Melbourne Phoenix takes a match against the Adelaide 36ers at the new-look stadium, million dollar upgraded Gippsland Regional Indoor Sports Stadium (GRISS).
• Erica Country Expo 2022 major success as crowds celebrate good old country fun
  Excited visitors and locals have flocked to celebrate the Erica Country Expo, a community-led event and the first of its kind to be held in the local region.
• New mothers and families missing out on crucial support stem from failure to act on health workforce shortages by Andrews Labor government
  New mothers risk missing crucial milestones to detect developmental delays in babies and post-natal depression with the shortage of maternal and child health (MCH) nurses that's facing Victoria's health system.
• Jobs boost to south and west Gippsland with 11 projects approved for funding from federal 'Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program'
  Funding for local roads projects that will support more jobs and help in the economic growth for the community.
• Update on Esso Carbon Capture Usage and Storage (CCUS) projects in Gippsland to help reduce Carbon Dioxide emissions
  The Committee for Gippsland's Gippsland Hydrogen Cluster hosted a presentation from Esso Australia in Sale last week, updating members on Esso's Carbon Capture Usage and Storage (CCUS) projects.
• Inverloch shared pathway along Surf Parade is underway to complement the existing infrastructure
  Bass Coast Shire Council's construction of the next stage of the Inverloch Shared Pathway along Surf Parade is progressing well and is on track to be completed by the end of May.
• Omeo Mountain Bike Trail gets $3.2M additional funding from federal government to deliver stage two of the project
  Mayor Cr Mark Reeves applauded the announcement and noted the great cooperation between shire, state and federal governments in funding the project. He also announced an additional $1.06m from council.
• Wellington Shire mayor urges kindness as Melbourne and regional Victoria opens up
  Wellington Shire Council Mayor Garry Stephens is encouraging locals to be kind and support each other as Melbourne and regional Victoria move to the same Covid restrictions from this Friday.
• Baw Baw Shire Council supports West Gippsland Regional Library transition to not-for-profit
  Endorsing support for West Gippsland Regional Library Corporation to be a not-for-profit organisation.
• Baw Baw Shire Council raises the Pride flag in support of International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia & Transphobia
  Baw Baw Shire Council is proud to celebrate the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia & Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) and raise the Pride flag in support of inclusivity and diversity.
• Bass Coast competitors return to Life Saving Victoria 2022 Motorsport inflatable rescue boat premiership season
  Inflatable rescue boat (IRB) racing competitors from Venus Bay and Inverloch Surf Life Saving Clubs (SLSCs) returned to the Surf Coast on Sunday for Life Saving Victoria's 2022 TRE Motorsport inflatable rescue boat (IRB) Premiership Season.
• Local community sporting events can now apply for support through the Regional Sports Events Fund of the federal government
  Funding to support local community sporting events is now available through the Federal Government.
• 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.
• Bidfood Morwell new cold storage food distribution facility and LV Shade Sails expansion get Victorian government support
  Latrobe City Council welcomes the Victorian government's support of 47 new jobs across Morwell and Traralgon through the Regional Jobs Fund.
• Great Alpine Road State upgrades needs to fast tracked by federal government to ensure road users safety
  Gippsland MP Darren Chester has written to the state and federal governments about the urgent need for upgrades along the Great Alpine Road.
• 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.
• Concern over delays to rollout of Murray Basin Rail Project East expresses by Gippsland Shire Council to Andrews Labor government
  Council backed a request from the Rail Freight Alliance (RFA), of which Council is a member, to join a statewide call to get the project back on track ahead of the Victorian State Election.
• Treasurer Tim Pallas finally apologises for disgraceful slur directed at a female Labor colleague - Premier must now do the same
  Treasurer Tim Pallas has finally apologised today for his disgraceful slur directed at a female Labor colleague and the Premier must now do the same.
• 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.
• East Gippsland Shire Council promotes priorities to regional candidates in lead up to federal 2022 election
  East Gippsland Shire Council's advocacy priorities brought for discussions with the region's federal candidates.
• 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.
• Mental health cut $60M from Beyond Blue, Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia, Lifeline and Kids Helpline by Andrews Labor government
  Mental Health Minister James Merlino has confirmed almost $60 million of cruel cuts to mental health programs that were designed to help struggling Victorians recover from the pandemic.
• Tee-Up Golf Day 2021 in Traralgon raises $20,000 for suicide prevention and mental health with help of Russell Northe and Rotary Club
  Member for Morwell, Russell Northe has spoken of his pride with regards to the business and community support that was received for the 2021 Tee-Up for Mental Health Day to which Mr Northe co-hosted along with the Rotary Club of Traralgon.
• 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.
• 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
• 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.
• 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.
• Funding applications open for new $3M Culture, Heritage and Arts Regional Tourism (CHART) federal program
  The Morrison Government is investing more than $1 billion into the arts and creative sector in 2021‑22.
• Gippsland welcomes federal budget 2022-23 which includes a range of regional initiatives that will support region to grow and thrive
  Federal budget 2022-23 release to continue support of growing Gippsland.
• 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.
• Kosciusko and Bank Street intersection in Traralgon to get vital safety upgrade as part of federal government's $300M commitment for 2022
  Latrobe City Council is pleased Regional Roads Victoria will begin vital upgrades at key intersections along the Princes Highway this year.
• Liberal Nationals urging support for simple changes to transform Victorian children mental health
  Today, the Victorian government finally backflipped on its opposition to much-needed reforms that will unlock more mental health practitioners to work in Victorian schools.
• Darren Chester says lack of progress on road safety projects on Princes Highway from Rosedale to New South Wales is frustrating
  Local MP Darren Chester has expressed his frustration at the lack of progress on priority road projects in East Gippsland.
• Over $14M invested into several key infrastructure projects for 2022/23 by Baw Baw Shire Council
  Council's $41.78 million infrastructure budget for the year ahead, $14.32 million will be invested in progressing major strategic projects to build a more sustainable, connected and thriving future for Baw Baw Shire.
• Federal seat of Gippsland with Darren Chester MP declared first by Australian Electoral Commission with highest number of votes
  The seat of Gippsland was the first in Victoria to be 'officially declared' by the Australian Electoral Commission, with local MP Darren Chester recording the highest number of primary votes in Australia.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Bass Coast shop front improvement program delivered rebates to 41 businesses as part of the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic
  With the assistance of the rebates, nearly 30 projects have already been completed, such as external signage, painting, minor repairs, accessibility improvements and lighting upgrades.
• Bairnsdale Airport gets $340,000 grant for water main upgrade from federal Regional Airports Program and East Gippsland Shire Council
  Work is underway at Bairnsdale Airport to replace the site's ageing water mains.
• Venus Bay, Bass Coast Shire and Baw Baw Shire get $275,000 funding to reduce natural disaster risk and build resilience
  The Australian government is reducing the risk and minimising the impact to communities of large-scale natural disasters like floods and bushfires in Monash by directly funding three projects to the value of $275,000.
• 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.
• 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.
• New pitch lighting at Thorpdale and Longwarry Recreation Reserves from $250,000 Victorian government funding
  The Longwarry Crows and Thorpdale Blues football teams can now play day and night thanks to the completion of the new pitch lighting at Thorpdale and Longwarry Recreation Reserves.
• 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.
• Gippsland students can apply for up to $18,000 assistance via Rural and Regional Enterprise Scholarships (RRES) program
  Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester is encouraging local students needing financial assistance to apply for round six of the Rural and Regional Enterprise Scholarships (RRES) 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.
• West and central Gippsland gets $480M for 4G and 5G wireless upgrade from Morrison government in 2022-23 federal budget
  Electorate of Monash will have access to a significantly more capable NBN network following a $480 million investment by the Morrison Government in the 2022-23 Federal Budget.
• TAFE Gippsland Warragul campus upgrade complete and now world-class training facility
  The Andrews Labor government has completed its multimillion-dollar upgrade of TAFE Gippsland's Warragul campus, giving local jobseekers the chance to train in world-class facilities before entering a rewarding career.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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!
• 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.
• 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.
• Sandhill Road Reserve protects endangered Gippsland Red Gum Grassy Woodland vegetation
  A project to restore land at Stratford once used for cattle grazing to a nature reserve, is now ready for the public to enjoy thanks to a collaboration between Wellington Shire Council and Avon Landcare Group.
• Councils in West and South Gippsland will share in $2.1B Commonwealth Cash Boost for flooding and COVID-19 recovery
  Five councils in the Monash electorate will benefit from the Australian government's $2.1 billion pre-payment on next year's Financial Assistance Grant to all councils across Australia.
• Extraordinary backtrack means more time to speak up against draconian Dan Andrews Pandemic Bill
  Peter Walsh MP opposing the bill and urging Victorians to speak up and stand up for their freedom.
• Sarsfield and Ensay get $5.9M funding for additional community projects from the Black Summer bushfires program
  Member for Gippsland Darren Chester says two additional community projects worth $5.9 million will receive funding to support the ongoing recovery from the Black Summer bushfires.
• South Gippsland Shire Council update early February 2022 - Regional Profile Survey closing soon
  South Gippsland Council's project plans and updates for the community.
• Multi-million for bushfire recovery infrastructure projects is great news for East Gippsland
  Funding announcements and grant received from council that would benefit the economy, as well as the community.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Key dates when running as a councillor in South Gippsland Shire Council election 2021
  Local council election key dates.
• Enrolments for Free TAFE in Gippsland up by 29 percent for 2020
  More than 13,000 jobseekers enrolled in the Andrews Labor Government's Free TAFE initiative across TAFE Gippsland, Box Hill Institute and Chisholm Institute last year, making rewarding career pathways a reality for thousands of Victorians.
• Over $400,000 of federal funding for indigenous projects in Wellington Shire
  Five programs in Gippsland received funding under the Federal Government's Indigenous Advancement Strategy.
• Applications open for Deputy Chair and Committee member positions at Regional Development Australia
  Applications are invited for Deputy Chair and Committee member positions at Regional Development Australia.
• 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.
• 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.
• Applications open for community sporting events across the Gippsland from federal Regional Sport Events fund
  Sporting events across Monash are set to benefit from the Morrison Government's Regional Sport Events Fund.
• Gippsland Community Leadership Program celebrates more than 25 years of developing regional leaders at Lardner Park
  The Gippsland Community Leadership Program (GCLP) celebrated more than 25 years of developing regional leaders on Friday night at Lardner Park in the beautiful Baw Baw Shire.
• 2021 Australian Netball Championships format revamped as September event at Gippsland Regional Indoor Sports Stadium postponed
  The Australian Netball Championships will be played in a decentralised format this year, as the coronavirus pandemic continues to present significant challenges for sport.
• Darren Chester welcomes Offshore Electricity Infrastructure Bill to allow large Bass Strait projects with hundreds of local jobs
  Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester has welcomed the introduction of legislation to develop offshore electricity infrastructure with local jobs at stake.
• 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.
• Expanded free TAFE turbocharges post-covid Victoria and Gippsland
  Additional TAFE courses ensuring appropriate training for Victorian job seekers.
• Pandemic-driven property price rises putting the squeeze on Gippsland and other regional home buyers
  Property and rental price hike in regional Victoria, while availability in other areas are dropping.
• Over $270,000 of federal funding for indigenous projects in East Gippsland
  Three Indigenous programs in East Gippsland will benefit from funding as part of the Federal Government's Indigenous Advancement Strategy.
• Glengarry Mechanics Institute officially re-opens after $557,074 refurbished funded by federal and Victorian governments
  Latrobe City Council in partnership with Member for Gippsland Darren Chester MP, Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing MP and the Latrobe Valley Authority officially opened the refurbished Glengarry Mechanics Institute yesterday.
• 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.
• Noojie residents to get a better connection from federal roll-out of $257M Regional Connectivity Program
  Residents of Noojee will soon be better connected following a successful application for funding under Round 2 of the Regional Connectivity Program.
• Moe Play Space in Apex Park gets changing places accessible toilet from Latrobe City Council with $110,000 from Victorian government
  Funding received from the government for changing areas at Apex Park.
• 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.
• 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.
• Great Southern Rail Trail to be extended with $6 million funding from Regional Infrastructure Fund
  Boosting tourism while creating jobs for the locals through the Gippsland track and trails project.
• July is high-risk month for home-related drownings according to Victorian statistics
  With many Victorians relaxing for the school holidays, Life Saving Victoria is urging the public to never relax their vigilance around water safety, even in your own home.
• Tetoora Road, Nilma North and Tanjil Bren get $60,000 each for community projects from Baw Baw Shire Council
  Excitement is mounting in Tetoora Road, Nilma North and Tanjil Bren after community-led projects received Baw Baw Shire Council endorsement at Wednesday night's meeting.
• 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.
• 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.
• Expression of Interest by local artist for Brighten up Baw Baw Mural Projects wanted by Baw Baw Shire Council
  Council is seeking expressions of interest from local artists and collectives to deliver exciting and vibrant public art pieces at three pedestrian friendly locations in Baw Baw.
• Reminder for beach goers to swim between the flags from Bass Coast Shire Council
  Bass Coast Shire Council is urging everyone to be safe by the water this summer and to always swim between the red and yellow flags at a patrolled beach.
• Repairing Morwell River Diversion for Yallourn mine to ensure energy supply agreed on between Energy Australian and Victorian government
  Works to repair the damage in the Morwell River Diversion (MRD) near the Yallourn coal mine to secure Victoria's energy supply have been agreed upon between the Victorian Government and Energy Australia.
• Free camping plan along crown river frontages sparks bushfire concern for Gippsland and regional Victoria
  Figures reported this week show Forest Fire Management Victoria attended 1435 bushfires in the last financial year - 860 were caused by unattended campfires.
• 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.
• Kilcunda Skate and Play project gets $250,000 funding from Bass Coast Shire Council and Victorian government
  Bass Coast Shire Council was excited to join Member for Bass Jordan Crugnale MP in Kilcunda today (Monday, 23 May), who announced $250,000 for the town's skate and play project, this is in addition to the $325,000 committed by council.
• 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.
• Seaspray Surf Life Saving Club made it Women's Open and Under 19 Beach Flags events in 2022 Australian Lifesaving Championships
  Seven Seaspray Surf Life Saving Club athletes have returned home from the 2022 Australian Lifesaving Championships with plenty of results to make themselves and their club proud.
• Russell Northe questions Minister on when decision on proposed Delburn Wind Farm will be made
  Member for Morwell, Russell Northe has last week in Parliament questioned the Minister for Planning as to when a decision on the proposed Delburn Wind Farm is likely to be made.
• Sun sets on Gippsland life saving patrols in 2022 as busiest lifesaving season in Victoria ends
  The red and yellow flags will be taken down on Gippsland clubs and state-wide beaches for the last time this season, ending Victoria's busiest lifesaving season to date.
• Community invited to online briefing on Warragul and Drouin preferred neighbourhood character design guidelines
  Online open community briefing will be held by the council to present councillors and the community with the draft design guidelines that are proposed to define overall township character and inform planning for future developments.
• Mallacoota Gun Club gets $9000 for new solar power system from federal government funding
  Funding for the re-establishment of the facility.
• Fish unloading jetty at Lakes Entrance to be replaced with $687,000 funding to Gippsland Ports from Victorian government
  Gippsland East Nationals MP, Tim Bull, is delighted $687,000 in State funds have been allocated to Gippsland Ports to replace its jetty at the Lakes Entrance Fishermen's Co-Operative.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Raymond Island Koala Trail and Discovery Experience gets $442,000 funding to upgrade from state government and council
  Raymond Island's Koala Trail & Discovery Experience is getting a facelift, with Stage 1 of a project to revitalise and improve the visitor experience now underway.
• Grants for Gippsland art organisations available from federal Culture, Heritage and Arts Regional Tourism (CHART)
  The Australian Museums and Galleries Association (AMaGA) is thrilled to announce the successful applicants from Batch 1 of the Culture, Heritage and Arts Regional Tourism (CHART) program.
• Dog friendly holiday accommodation in Gippsland when planning your next family break
  Dog lovers, think beyond accommodation where you're permitted to bring your dog, to next-level pooch-dedicated resorts.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Difficult to celebrate International Women's Day when reflecting on issues confronting women in Australia
  Reflecting on the issues confronting women in Australia, on International Women's Day, I confess, that like last year, it's difficult to find things to celebrate.
• 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.
• Lakes Entrance Aquadome wins 2022 Small Facility Management Award at Aquatic and Recreation Victoria Industry Awards
  The Lakes Entrance Aquadome came out on top at the recent Aquatic and Recreation Victoria Industry Awards.
• Baw Baw Shire Council gets $360,000 additional disaster recovery funding to support community long term recovery from 2019 bushfire
  Funding provided by the Victorian Government to support bushfire safety and preparedness initiatives in the eastern region of Baw Baw Shire.
• 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.
• Record high number of drownings for 2020/21 in Victoria
  Life Saving Victoria will release the Victorian 2020 - 21 Drowning Report
• 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.
• 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.
• One Gippsland submits freight fast-track, tourism recovery, digital connectivity and job creation as funding priorities 2022/23 to governments
  A number of local projects have been identified that will work to increase the liveability and prosperity of our regional cities and local towns.
• Planning Institute of Australia award for improving planning processes won by East Gippsland Shire Council
  East Gippsland Shire Council and Brimbank City Council have jointly won a Planning Institute of Australia award for improving planning processes.
• Submissions open for Planning Scheme Amendment for Yarragon-Leongatha Road in Yarragon
  A Planning Scheme Amendment applying to 28 and Part 63 Yarragon-Leongatha Road Yarragon has been prepared by Baw Baw Shire Council on behalf of Millar Merrigan and is available for public exhibition until Monday 11 July.
• Planning resources and new initiatives for Baw Baw Shire gets $1.19M in council 2022/23 budget
  Council's 2022/23 Annual Budget includes decisive steps to address these challenges, and These challenges are heightened by a COVID-impacted labour market and a shortage of skilled planners.
• Dawson Street, Maffra Road and Princes Highway intersection gets $300M upgrade from previous Coalition federal government
  Member for Gippsland Darren Chester says he's keen to secure federal government funding to upgrade a notorious intersection on the Princes Highway in Sale.
• Number of planning applications is good news for economic growth in East Gippsland
  East Gippsland Shire Council is supporting the region's economic growth through well-considered planning decisions.
• Further funding to assist Gippsland businesses and community recovery from drought, bushfires and the coronavirus through federal Rebuilding Regional Communities Program
  Local businesses and community groups can apply for funding to assist Gippsland as it recovers from the impacts of the coronavirus.
• New data shows demand for youth mental health service highest in Victoria
  Harrowing new data from the Kids Helpline shows the emotional toll Daniel Andrews' lockdowns are taking on the youngest Victorians.