Latest News• Add My News • Search Old News Baw Baw Local News category currently displaying (Show all items) Baw Baw Local News Baw Baw Shire expands environmental rebate to encourage reusable products, cut waste and boost community sustainability![]() Baw Baw Shire Council has expanded its environmental rebate into three categories, helping residents buy reusable products, reduce landfill waste, improve recycling, and support more sustainable households through partial purchase rebates. Community invited to shape future of Roberts Court Bushland Reserve through draft master plan feedback by 20 August 2026 Baw Baw Shire Council is seeking community feedback on a draft master plan for Roberts Court Bushland Reserve, balancing recreation, conservation, cultural heritage and long-term environmental management before final endorsement later this year. Community satisfaction survey shows Baw Baw Shire Council reversing declining trend through broad improvements overall Baw Baw Shire Council's annual Community Satisfaction Survey shows significant improvements, reversing previous declines. Strongest ratings were for libraries, public spaces and waste management, while roads and planning improved. Buln Buln Recreation Reserve celebrates new lighting upgrade improving safety, training capacity and community sport access Buln Buln Recreation Reserve has unveiled a $350,000 LED lighting upgrade, improving safety, accessibility and capacity for training and competitions, supported by Baw Baw Shire Council and the Victorian government. Baw Baw Shire Council secures VicHealth funding to boost health, wellbeing and inclusion for local young people Baw Baw Shire Council has secured $200,000 from VicHealth’s Partners in Place initiative to deliver community-based health and wellbeing programs, empowering children and young people to help shape healthier, more connected neighbourhoods. Baw Baw Shire Council offers parking fine refunds after administrative error led to overcharged infringements Baw Baw Shire Council is offering partial refunds to motorists overcharged for certain parking infringements issued between 2002–2010 and 2016–2025 after identifying an administrative error in penalty calculations. FOGO rolls out across Baw Baw, South Gippsland and Wellington Shires from early July Baw Baw, South Gippsland and Wellington Shire councils will launch weekly FOGO collections in early July, helping households divert food and garden waste from landfill while supporting Victoria’s standardised recycling reforms. Community invited to help name Warragul nature reserve with proposed Kurnai name Nyalling meaning boggy place Baw Baw Shire is seeking community feedback on naming Warragul’s final Waterford Rise nature reserve Nyalling, a Kurnai word meaning "boggy place", with submissions closing on 25 July 2026. Baw Baw Shire adopts $127 million 2026/27 Budget with record roads investment and major community projects Baw Baw Shire has adopted its $127 million 2026/27 Budget, featuring a record $38.74 million for road renewals, a new Warragul Library and Learning Centre, and major community infrastructure projects. Baw Baw Shire Council adopts $127M budget with record road investment and major projects Baw Baw Shire has adopted its $127 million 2026/27 budget, featuring record road funding, a new Warragul library, community projects and infrastructure works aimed at supporting a sustainable, healthy and thriving community. Baw Baw Shire Council adopts new Customer Service Charter and Complaints Handling Policy to improve community experience Baw Baw Shire Council adopted a new Customer Service Charter and Complaints Handling Policy to improve responsiveness, transparency and accountability, following community consultation and supporting future customer experience improvements. Baw Baw Shire Council adopts new public and civic art policies to guide future stewardship Baw Baw Shire has adopted new Public Art and Civic Art Collection policies to guide stewardship, expand public access and preserve more than 320 artworks for community enjoyment. Baw Baw Shire Council meeting snapshot - Wednesday 24 June 2026 Baw Baw Shire Council adopted its 2026/27 Budget, Carbon Emissions Reduction Plan, financial policies and public art policies, while endorsing road updates, grants, governance changes and community projects. Baw Baw Shire Council secures $60,000 from VicHealth funding to create inclusive welcoming arts and community spaces program Baw Baw Shire Council has received $60,000 VicHealth funding via Regional Arts Victoria for a three-year Welcoming Spaces program with Na Djinang Circus to support inclusive public spaces, cultural safety, and community connection. Baw Baw Shire expands Reduce, Reuse, Recycle rebate to support households cutting waste and boosting sustainability outcomes Baw Baw Shire Council expands its environmental rebate program to include compost, reusable sanitary products and nappies, supporting waste reduction and sustainability efforts. Yarragon’s Dowton Park unveils $3.965M pavilion, boosting community sport, accessibility, sustainability and future regional growth A $3.965 million pavilion at Yarragon’s Dowton Park has opened, delivering upgraded facilities, sustainability features and improved amenities supporting local sport, community participation and future regional growth. Baw Baw Shire 2026–27 Community Grants Round One opens 15 June, with applications available by appointment Baw Baw Shire Council has awarded over $141,000 in Community Grants to 41 local groups, supporting events, equipment and programs that strengthen community wellbeing, connection and participation. Baw Baw Shire Council seeks feedback on revised Draft Community Engagement Policy, submit by 22 June 2026 Baw Baw Shire Council has released its Draft Community Engagement Policy for feedback until 22 June, aiming to strengthen communication, transparency and community participation in local decision-making processes. Have your say on Baw Baw Shire Draft Governance Rules 2026, complete the survey from 28 May and 19 June 2026 Baw Baw Shire Council is reviewing Governance Rules, proposing changes to meetings and community participation processes, with public consultation open until 19 June 2026 through the Baw Baw Connect engagement platform. Baw Baw Shire Council meeting snapshot - Wednesday 27 May 2026 Council’s 27 May meeting covered planning deferrals, Yarragon amendments, economic strategy endorsement, hardship policy adoption, governance updates, exhibitions, committee reports, and authorisations. Baw Baw Library and Learning Centre reaches milestone with early works contract awarded to Becon Constructions Baw Baw Shire Council advances its new Library and Learning Centre project with early works awarded to Becon Constructions, marking progress on site preparation and infrastructure for the $30 million development. Baw Baw Shire Council welcomes $250,000 funding to upgrade Noojee Heritage Centre precinct and rail trail Baw Baw Shire Council welcomes $250,000 funding for Noojee Heritage Centre precinct upgrades, supporting rail trail access, tourism infrastructure and local transition initiatives under the Forestry Transition Program. Letters to 1,600 Drouin households support advocacy for urgent intersection upgrades across Baw Baw Shire’s growing road network Baw Baw Shire is delivering letters to 1,600 Drouin households urging community support for State funding of critical intersection upgrades amid growing congestion, safety concerns, and regional population growth pressures. Bellbird Park to receive new raised pedestrian crossing improving safety and accessibility for Drouin’s busy sporting precinct Bellbird Park sports precinct in Drouin will receive a new raised pedestrian crossing improving safety, visibility, and accessibility for all users. Baw Baw households receive kitchen caddies ahead of FOGO rollout in July 2026, improving recycling and food and garden waste processing Baw Baw Shire delivers kitchen caddies ahead of FOGO rollout in July 2026, supporting composting, reduced landfill, and improved recycling outcomes. Baw Baw Shire introduces new e-waste units in Warragul and Drouin, funded by Victoria, enabling safe disposal of batteries and electronics Baw Baw Shire introduces new e-waste drop-off units in Warragul and Drouin, improving safe battery and electronics recycling for the community. Warragul pump track underway, delivering family-friendly cycling facility for all skill levels and recreation Warragul first pump track is under construction at Burke Street Park, offering a family-friendly cycling facility for all ages and skill levels, supported by council and state government funding. Baw Baw Draft Budget invests millions in roads, sporting projects and infrastructure while seeking community feedback until 14 May 2026 Baw Baw $127.5 million Draft Budget includes $50.9 million for infrastructure, major sporting upgrades, road projects and long-term planning, with community feedback open until 14 May. Baw Baw Shire seeks community feedback on draft art policies to protect collections, enrich public spaces and support creativity by 13 May 2026 Baw Baw Shire is seeking community feedback on new draft art policies to protect collections, enhance public spaces, and support creativity, with more than 220 public artworks and 122 civic pieces shaping local culture. Baw Baw Shire Council meeting snapshot - Wednesday 22 April 2026 Baw Baw Shire Council April meeting covers draft budget, infrastructure plans, public art policies, governance updates and community consultation opportunities. Candlelight vigil in Baw Baw honours victims of family violence, promotes awareness, remembrance and prevention on 6 May 2026 Community invited to candlelight vigil at West Gippsland Arts Centre on 6 May to honour victims and raise family violence awareness. Baw Baw Shire Council secures $500k funding for Longwarry multi-sport pavilion upgrade project construction announcement Baw Baw Shire secures $500,000 State funding for Longwarry Recreation Reserve multi-sport pavilion supporting football, netball, cricket and community facilities. Local community groups invited to book appointments for Baw Baw Shire minor capital grants by 29 May 2026 Baw Baw Shire invites community groups to apply for minor capital works grants, supporting local facility upgrades, inclusion projects, and equipment, with appointments now open for 2026 submissions. Baw Baw Shire celebrates ANZAC Day 2026 across the shire on 19 and 25 April 2026 Community members are invited to attend ANZAC Day commemorative services across Baw Baw Shire townships, including dawn services, with Longwarry held earlier, honouring service and sacrifice in local remembrance events. Submit your written feedback on adopted Yarragon Township Plans until 26 April 2026 Baw Baw Shire Council is extending community consultation on the Yarragon Township Plan and rezoning from 13-26 April 2026, inviting feedback before the May Council decision and Ministerial process consideration process. Baw Baw Shire Council Awards ten local artists and groups as Arts and Culture Fund recipients 2026 Baw Baw Shire Council has awarded ten local artists and groups funding through its Arts and Culture Fund, supporting creative projects, skill development, and community engagement across diverse artistic disciplines. Baw Baw Shire residents urged to be vigilant and follow safety rules despite fire restriction ease Despite eased restrictions, fire risk remains. Residents can conduct burn-offs under strict rules, must supervise fires, follow regulations, and stay alert as total fire ban days may still apply. Baw Baw Shire aquatic facilities future management decision announced Baw Baw Council will continue current aquatic and leisure facility operations with YMCA Victoria for 12 months, ensuring service continuity while assessing future management and preparing for a future tender process. Craig Watts Park playground renewal completed in Neerim South community upgrade Baw Baw Shire Council has completed the Craig Watts Park playground renewal in Neerim South, incorporating community and student feedback, with new equipment, safety upgrades, landscaping, and the slide arriving later. Health Care Australia to deliver immunisation services across Baw Baw, Casey and Cardinia Shires starting 1 July 2026 Health Care Australia will manage immunisation services across Baw Baw, Casey, and Cardinia, offering National Immunisation Program vaccines, streamlining administration, improving efficiency, and providing access and flexibility for residents. Youth advocates for Baw Baw ( YABBies ) offer school holidays fun with free creative, active events for Baw Baw Youth on April 2026 Baw Baw’s YABBies are hosting free April school holiday events, including sushi making, painting, and skatepark activities, offering safe, fun, and engaging opportunities for youth aged 12–17 to connect and learn. Baw Baw Council endorses key 2026 advocacy priorities, including Weebar Road roundabout, Rokeby-Noojee Trail, sports infrastructure and regional investment Baw Baw Shire Council has endorsed its 2026 advocacy priorities, including Weebar Road roundabout, Rokeby-Noojee Trail, Trafalgar oval, intersection upgrades, sporting infrastructure, business attraction, and peri‑urban recognition. Baw Baw Council seeks community feedback on Customer Service Charter and Complaints Handling Policy, consultation closes 22 April 2026 Baw Baw Council is seeking community feedback on its draft Customer Service Charter and Complaints Handling Policy. Consultation is open until 5pm, Wednesday 22 April 2026, online or at Farm World. Baw Baw Shire Council meeting snapshot - Wednesday 25 March 2026 At its 25 March meeting, Baw Baw Council endorsed the 2025 Planning Scheme Review, deferred the Yarragon Township Plan, approved and refused permits, set 2026 advocacy priorities, revised policies, and advanced Longwarry Reserve governance. Yarragon stalwart honoured as Rollo Street Park renamed Angela Malacarne Park community tribute Baw Baw Shire Council renamed Rollo Street Park to Angela Malacarne Park, honouring longtime teacher. The redeveloped Yarragon site reopened March 21, unveiling new features with family, councillors and Harriet Shing attending. Baw Baw Shire Council invites the community to shape draft Economic Development and Visitor Economy Strategy 2026-2030 by 27 March 2026 Council seeks community feedback on its draft 2026-2030 Economic Development and Visitor Economy Strategy, outlining five focus areas to strengthen business, tourism, workforce skills, infrastructure and sustainable regional growth. Baw Baw Shire Council encourages community groups to apply for 2026‑2027 grants supporting projects and minor capital works Baw Baw Shire Council’s 2026‑2027 Community Grants Program supports not-for-profit groups with funding for projects up to $5,000 and minor capital works up to $10,000, promoting thriving, sustainable communities. Baw Baw Shire Council meeting snapshot - Wednesday 25 February 2026 Baw Baw Shire Council’s 25 February meeting approved a planning permit, endorsed the 2026‑2030 Economic Development Strategy, noted quarterly reports, submitted federal funding motions, and acknowledged a condolence motion. Baw Baw Shire Council invites community to provide feedback on the new Alan Croxford Playground design by 20 March 2026 Baw Baw Shire Council invites community feedback on two new Alan Croxford Playground designs, aiming to create a safe, engaging, and family-friendly space in Rawson through the Playground Renewal Program. Baw Baw Shire secures $102,000 AusNet grant for five rural hall upgrades, emergency generators and community resilience Baw Baw Shire secured a $102,000 AusNet Emergency Resilience Grant for five rural halls, funding switchboard upgrades, generators, and community events to improve emergency power readiness. Proposed library and learning centre changes aim to reduce costs while meeting community needs in Baw Baw Shire Baw Baw Shire Council proposes adjustments to the Library and Learning Centre, removing basement and timber structure to stay within budget while delivering community, cultural, and co‑working spaces. Baw Baw Shire to gain two new kindergartens located at the Neerim South Primary School and Warragul Regional College opening in 2028 Baw Baw Shire will gain two new kindergartens at Neerim South and Warragul, opening in 2028, easing local demand and supporting families as part of the State’s Best Start reforms. Baw Baw Council extends Acting CEO Sally Jones’ term until June 2026 supporting leadership continuity Baw Baw Shire Council has extended Acting CEO Sally Jones’ term until June 2026, ensuring strong leadership and continuity while CEO Tilla Buden focuses on health and recovery. Baw Baw Council partners with Red Cross to teach local children disaster preparedness through Resilient Kids workshops Baw Baw Council and Red Cross are delivering Resilient Kids workshops in local schools, teaching children emergency preparedness, 000 calls, coping skills, and creating take-home emergency kits throughout 2026. Baw Baw Shire honours nine outstanding individuals and groups at 2026 Australia Day Awards ceremony held on 22 January 2026 Nine individuals and groups were honoured at Baw Baw Shire’s 2026 Australia Day Awards for outstanding community service, celebrated by Mayor Kate Wilson and the local community. Baw Baw Shire residents invited to safely dispose household chemicals at free Detox Your Home event on 14 March 2026 Baw Baw Shire residents can register for a free Detox Your Home event on 14 March 2026 to safely dispose of hazardous household chemicals, helping protect waterways and the environment. Craig Watts Park playground in Neerim South closing temporarily for upgrades from 28 January to 31 March 2026 Craig Watts Park playground in Neerim South will be upgraded with new climbing, swing, and junior play zones, closing 28 January to 31 March 2026, as part of Council’s renewal program. Baw Baw Shire Council invites community to join family-friendly Australia Day celebrations on 22 and 26 January 2026 Residents are invited to free, family-friendly Australia Day celebrations across Baw Baw Shire, reflecting on history, recognising First Nations cultures, welcoming new citizens, thanking volunteers, and celebrating community spirit together. Baw Baw Shire Council urges community groups to prepare applications for Community Project grants round 2 from 2 until 27 February 2026 Round Two of Baw Baw Shire’s Community Project Grants opens in February, offering community groups up to $5,000, with Applications by Appointment mandatory before submitting proposals by 27 February 2026. Applications for Baw Baw Shire Arts and Culture with grants up to $2,000 is now open until 8 February 2026 Baw Baw Shire Council is offering grants up to $2,000 for local artists and creatives, supporting community-focused arts projects, collaboration and creative development, with applications open until 8 February 2026. Walhalla Church Hill Road landslip repaired, fully reopened following 2022 storm recovery works completion Repairs to the Church Hill Road landslip in Walhalla are complete, reopening the road with DRFA-funded realignment, drainage, safety barriers, and asphalt surfacing, ensuring safe travel for residents and tourists. Baw Baw Shire appoints Sally Jones as acting CEO, leading council during temporary transition period Baw Baw Shire Council has appointed Ms Sally Jones as Acting CEO from 6 January to 3 February 2026, supporting leadership during CEO Tilla Buden’s medical leave. Copelands Road $4.9M upgrade complete, enhancing traffic flow, safety, pedestrian access, and bicycle facilities The $4.9 million Copelands Road upgrade is complete, featuring improved traffic flow, safety, Moe River bridge, drainage works, footpaths, and a shared bicycle path, delivered on time and within budget. Construction begins on Western Park Oval 2 Pavilion, including new curator shed and upgraded female-friendly facilities Construction has started on Western Park Oval 2 Pavilion, beginning with a new curator shed, supporting local sports growth, female-friendly facilities, and community recreation, funded by Council and a government grant. Council urges transparent, community-focused approach for battery energy storage systems across Baw Baw Baw Baw Council raises concerns over proposed BESS projects, urging transparency, protection of prime agricultural land, community input, and stronger oversight of sites outside designated renewable energy zones. Baw Baw Shire Council endorses 10-Year Master Plan to preserve and enhance Drouin’s Alex Goudie Park Baw Baw Council has endorsed a 10-year master plan for Drouin’s Alex Goudie Park, guiding future improvements, protecting its natural and cultural heritage, and enhancing amenities for community enjoyment. Baw Baw Council meeting snapshot - Wednesday 10 December 2025 Baw Baw Council’s 10 Dec meeting updated delegations, planning scheme amendments, social housing concerns, awarded transfer station management contract, adopted Alex Goudie Park Master Plan, approved land sale, and noted governance reports. Baw Baw Shire Council information session on Warragul and Drouin Development Contributions Plans review on 12 December 2025 Baw Baw residents are invited to an information session on 12 December to learn about the Warragul and Drouin Development Contributions Plans review and future infrastructure planning. Warragul Leisure Centre to receive $2.29M pool heating upgrade, cutting emissions and energy costs significantly Warragul Leisure Centre will receive a $2.29 million pool heating upgrade, funded by Council and government, cutting carbon emissions by 80% and saving approximately $308,000 in annual energy costs. Baw Baw Shire Council and community celebrate official opening of Gladys Sanderson Park in Noojee Baw Baw Shire Council and the community officially opened Gladys Sanderson Park in Noojee, honoring her bravery during the 1939 Black Friday bushfires, with festivities, Santa, and a Christmas celebration. Baw Baw Shire Council approves Roadside Trading Policy and Open Space Strategy following community feedback Baw Baw Council has adopted its new Roadside and Footpath Trading Policy and Open Space Strategy, following extensive community consultation to guide safe, vibrant, and accessible public spaces. Baw Baw Shire Council extends Acting CEO Mick Cummins’ leadership through 2 January 2026 during CEO’s absence Baw Baw Shire Council has extended Mick Cummins’ Acting CEO role until 2 January 2026, supporting the organisation while CEO Tilla Buden focuses on health and recovery. Baw Baw Shire Council meeting snapshot - Wednesday 26 November 2025 At its 26 November meeting, Baw Baw Council extended Mick Cummins as Acting CEO, adopted the Roadside Trading Policy and Open Space Strategy, and progressed key planning and governance decisions. Baw Baw community gathers for first-ever lighting of towering eight-metre Christmas tree on 5 December 2025 The community is invited to the first lighting of an eight-metre Christmas tree in Civic Park on 5 December, with festivities, live music, and safety reminders for attendees. Baw Baw Council launches new emergency dashboard providing reliable, centralised local updates before, during and after emergencies Baw Baw Council has launched a new Emergency Dashboard, providing residents with a single, reliable platform for real-time updates, warnings, and essential information before, during, and after emergencies on all devices. Baw Baw Shire outdoor pools open December 1, offering free Thorpdale access, and extended Warragul season for all ages Baw Baw Shire outdoor pools open from December 1, with Thorpdale free, Warragul extended, offering fun, safe swimming for all during summer, weather permitting. Drouin’s Commercial Place Stage 1 of the $1.1M project set to begin this to boost safety, accessibility and vibrancy Stage 1 of the $1.1 million Drouin Commercial Place upgrade begins this week, improving safety, accessibility, footpaths, carparks, and pedestrian areas, with minimal disruption and partial parking available. Lifeline Workshop in Warragul Library: Understanding and Preventing Family Violence for community awareness and safety Free two‑hour session at Lifeline, held at MYLI Warragul on 25 Nov 2025 from 1‑3 pm, aims to build awareness, understanding and practical strategies to prevent family violence. Baw Baw Shire Council appoints Mick Cummins as Acting CEO to guide organisation through transition Baw Baw Shire Council has appointed Mick Cummins as Acting CEO until mid-December. Cummins brings extensive local government experience and will support organisational priorities as Council reviews longer-term arrangements, Mayor Kate Wilson said. Baw Baw Council secures $173,000 grant to launch annual Noojee Truffle Festival 2026 Baw Baw Shire Council has secured a $173,000 Victorian Government grant to launch a three-week Noojee Truffle Festival in 2026, boosting tourism, local produce, and sustainable economic opportunities. Baw Baw Shire Council meeting snapshot - Wednesday 12 November 2025 Baw Baw Shire Council provides information on council meetings, including schedules, agendas, minutes, and livestream details, allowing the community to stay informed and engaged with local government decisions and discussions. Baw Baw Council and community oppose large-scale solar, battery projects threatening prime farmland and farming livelihoods Baw Baw Council and community express strong concerns over poorly sited solar and battery projects threatening prime farmland, seeking transparency, consultation, and protection of local farming livelihoods and regional character. Baw Baw Shire awards over $109,000 in community grants supporting 13 groups’ minor capital work projects Baw Baw Shire Council has awarded over $109,000 in Community Grants to 13 local groups, supporting minor capital works that improve facilities, sustainability, and community wellbeing across the shire. Baw Baw Shire Council hosts November community briefing in Trafalgar to discuss key projects and engage residents in shaping the town’s future Baw Baw Shire Council will hold a community briefing in Trafalgar on 18 November, inviting residents to discuss key projects, provide feedback, and engage with Councillors and Council officers. Live4Life Baw Baw celebrates 2025 Youth Mental Health Ambassadors, recognising leadership, teamwork and mental health achievements Live4Life Baw Baw celebrated its 2025 Youth Mental Health Ambassadors, recognising their leadership, teamwork, and mental health initiatives, while marking key milestones and community achievements throughout the year. Baw Baw Shire Council adopts 2025 - 2029 Road Management Plan, updating registers for safe, sustainable, community-focused roads and footpaths Baw Baw Shire Council has endorsed the 2025-2029 Road Management Plan, updating public road and footpath registers, removing recreational Walhalla Road sections, and ensuring safe, sustainable local road management. Yarragon’s Angela Malacarne Park wins 2025 Geographic Naming Award, celebrating local heritage and community contributions Yarragon’s Angela Malacarne Park, still under construction, has won the 2025 Geographic Naming Award, recognising Mrs Malacarne lifelong contributions and the community-led naming process. Demolition begins at Warragul Exhibition Hall, traffic changes implemented and materials salvaged for recycling and community reuse Demolition of Warragul Exhibition Hall will begin this week, with traffic changes, asbestos removal, and material salvage for recycling, while the site will be remediated for future council consideration. Baw Baw Shire Council adopts five key strategic plans to guide community growth, wellbeing and sustainability through 2035 Baw Baw Shire Council has adopted five key strategic plans to guide community growth, health, infrastructure, and financial sustainability through 2035, following extensive community consultation under ‘Shape Baw Baw’. Baw Baw Shire Council meeting snapshot - Wednesday 22 October 2025 Baw Baw Shire Council adopted the Council, Financial, Asset, Infrastructure, and Health Plans, approved key contracts and policies, refused a Poowong East development, and addressed community grants, leases, and road management. Baw Baw Shire Council releases 2024/25 Annual Report highlighting growth, major projects and community achievements Baw Baw Shire Council’s 2024/25 Annual Report highlights population growth, major projects, community grants, infrastructure upgrades, and continued focus on sustainable, connected, and thriving local communities. Baw Baw Shire fire danger period begins on 27 October with restrictions and safety measures Baw Baw Shire Fire Danger Period starts 27 October. Residents should prepare properties, follow fire restrictions, and can use free green waste drop-offs to reduce bushfire risks. Noojee chosen for Healthy Forest Plans Pilot with $4M funding to boost tourism and local economy Baw Baw Shire welcomes Noojee’s $4 million Healthy Forest Plans Pilot funding, part of a $30 million Victorian government initiative to boost regional tourism, support economic transition, and create local jobs. Community invited to join Walhalla project working groups shaping tourism and business opportunities for World Heritage future Baw Baw Shire Council invites community members to join Tourism, Infrastructure, or Business Support Project Working Groups for Walhalla, helping shape sustainable development linked to the Victorian Goldfields World Heritage Bid. Yarragon’s $3.9M Dowton Park Pavilion progressing, boosting local sport, community facilities and infrastructure by March 2026 Construction of Yarragon’s $3.9 million Dowton Park pavilion is progressing well, with steel framing, utilities, and key facilities underway, set for completion and community use by March 2026. Baw Baw Employment Expo returns October 2025, showcasing local jobs, training, networking and career opportunities The Baw Baw Employment Expo returns 16 October 2025, offering free access to local job opportunities, training, networking, resume support, and career advice for job seekers and businesses. Drouin’s Commercial Place precinct to get $1.1M upgrades, enhancing safety, accessibility, streetscape and supporting local businesses Construction on Drouin’s $1.1 million Commercial Place precinct upgrade begins October 2025, improving safety, accessibility, streetscape, pedestrian crossings, laneways, lighting, greenery, and community usability, completing mid-2026. Baw Baw Shire Council hosts free Pop-up Playgroups for children on various dates from 30 October to 12 December 2025 Baw Baw Shire invites families to free Pop-up Playgroups with themed activities, crafts, music, storytime, and outdoor fun for children aged 0 - 5, fostering connection, learning, and community engagement. Baw Baw Shire Council introduces FOGO green bin service from July 2026, reducing landfill, creating compost and supporting a circular economy From July 2026, Baw Baw residents can use green bins for food and garden waste, reducing landfill, creating compost, and supporting a circular economy under the new FOGO service. Baw Baw Shire Council hosts free ‘Look Over the Farm Gate - Help a Mate!’ barbecues supporting farmers’ wellbeing Baw Baw Shire free ‘Look Over the Farm Gate - Help a Mate!’ barbecues support farmers’ wellbeing, offering connection, meals, and access to mental health, financial, and drought assistance resources. Baw Baw Shire Council hosts Seniors Festival 2025, featuring free events and activities celebrating connection, creativity and positive ageing Baw Baw Shire celebrates Victorian Seniors Festival October 2025 with free events, workshops, garden tours, and activities, encouraging seniors to connect, create, celebrate, and enjoy free public transport across Victoria. Gippsland Live4Life youth unite at Allambee Camp, fostering confidence, teamwork and mental health awareness through outdoor activities Live4Life Gippsland youth Crews gathered at Allambee Camp for adventure, teamwork, confidence-building, and sharing mental health awareness ideas, supported by Baw Baw Shire Council. Baw Baw Shire Council first open community briefing, involving residents in flood mapping and fostering ongoing council-community dialogue Baw Baw Shire Council held its first Open Community Briefing on flood mapping, engaging 17 residents in discussions and committing to ongoing transparent community engagement on key local issues. Baw Baw Councillors elect Kate Wilson as Mayor and Suzanne Allen Deputy Mayor for 12-month council leadership term Baw Baw Councillors have unanimously elected Kate Wilson as Mayor and Suzanne Allen as Deputy Mayor, leading the Council for the next 12 months and representing the community’s interests. Nominations open for Baw Baw Shire 2026 Australia Day Awards celebrating local community champions Nominations are open for Baw Baw Shire 2026 Australia Day Awards, celebrating outstanding individuals, organisations, and events that make the community stronger. Entries close Friday, 24 October 2025. Baw Baw Shire Council endorses 2026 - 2029 Domestic Animal Management Plan to promote safety, welfare, responsible ownership Baw Baw Council has endorsed the 2026-2029 Domestic Animal Management Plan to promote responsible pet ownership, enhance animal welfare, ensure community safety, and guide strategic animal management over the next four years. Baw Baw Shire Council appoints experienced leader Tilla Buden as new chief executive officer commencing on November 2025 Baw Baw Shire Council has appointed Tilla Buden as its new CEO, bringing extensive leadership experience and community focus. She will formally commence in the role on 17 November 2025. Baw Baw Shire Council meeting snapshot - Wednesday 24 September 2025 Baw Baw Shire Council appointed Tilla Buden as CEO, adopted the Domestic Animal Management Plan, awarded Drouin streetscape contract, deferred Alex Goudie Park Master Plan, and endorsed updated delegation guidelines at its 24 September meeting. Baw Baw Shire Council meeting snapshot - Wednesday 24 September 2025 Baw Baw Shire Council appointed Tilla Buden as CEO, adopted the Domestic Animal Management Plan, awarded Drouin streetscape contract, deferred Alex Goudie Park Master Plan, and endorsed updated delegation guidelines at its 24 September meeting. Baw Baw Shire Council awarded $140,000 in community grants to support sustainable, healthy, and thriving community projects Council has awarded over $140,000 in Community Grants to 36 groups, supporting events, projects, and minor capital works that strengthen community sustainability, health, and wellbeing through not-for-profit initiatives. Baw Baw Shire Council secures funding for four key road safety projects through TAC and federal Blackspot Programs Baw Baw Shire Council secured TAC and Federal Blackspot funding for four key road safety projects in Warragul and Drouin, targeting high-risk areas with upgrades to improve safety for all road users. Indigenous artist Lionel Rose Junior honoured for Warragul Station Park artwork celebrating culture, community and family legacy Indigenous artist Lionel Rose Junior's cockatoo design now features in Warragul Station Park, honouring Kurnai and Gunditjmara heritage, community ties, and his family legacy alongside uncle Lionel Rose's iconic statue. Baw Baw Shire Council invites community to join Biodiversity Blitz and help shape first nature plan from 1-30 September 2025 Baw Baw Shire Council invites residents to celebrate Biodiversity Month by joining the Biodiversity Blitz, recording local species, attending walk-and-talk events, and contributing ideas to shape the region's first Nature Plan. Baw Baw Shire Council seeks community feedback on draft 10-year open space strategy for future planning Baw Baw Shire Council invites feedback on its draft Open Space Strategy, shaping a 10-year plan to guide investment, protect natural spaces, and enhance community wellbeing. Consultation closes Friday 3 October 2025. Baw Baw Shire Council returns 37 cultural artefacts to Lardil people in historic Mornington Island repatriation Baw Baw Shire Mayor Danny Goss led a historic journey to Mornington Island, repatriating 37 cultural artefacts to the Lardil People, marking a significant step toward reconciliation and cultural heritage restoration. Have your say on the draft Roadside and Footpath Trading Policy balance road access, submit by 28 September 2025 Baw Baw Shire Council invites feedback on its Draft Roadside and Footpath Trading Policy, aiming to balance vibrant business activity with safe pedestrian access. Consultation runs 29 August - 28 September on Baw Baw Connect. Rokeby to Noojee $4M trail upgrade officially opens, enhancing accessibility, safety, and visitor experience across region A $4 million upgrade of the Rokeby to Noojee Trail has officially opened, delivering improved surfaces, facilities, signage and lookouts, with $3 million Victorian government funding and strong community contributions celebrated. Baw Baw Shire Council meeting snapshot - Wednesday 27 August 2025 Baw Baw Shire Council's 27 August meeting covered petitions, Warragul planning permits, Aberfeldy roadworks, draft strategies, community consultation, governance updates, with meetings live-streamed and open for public participation. Baw Baw Shire to host community barbecues supporting farmers through 'Look Over the Farm Gate' grants Baw Baw Shire Council will host five community barbecues supporting farmers' wellbeing through Look Over the Farm Gate grants, offering connection, resources, and mental health support amid ongoing dry conditions.
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