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Latrobe excluded from bus funding, prompting renewed calls for better regional transport connectivity, reliability and integrated train-bus servicesLatrobe City has been excluded from $100 million bus funding, prompting concerns over poor service coordination, limited connectivity, and calls for urgent regional transport review and investment. By news@gippsland - 14th May 2026 - Back to News Latrobe City has been left out of the Victorian government's recent announcement to invest $100 million into bus network services in the State Budget. While most of this investment is directed towards metropolitan Melbourne, only a small number of regional areas have been identified for service improvements, with Latrobe City not included. 
Latrobe City Council urges governments to invest in integrated transport, seeking bus network review, improved services, and accessibility upgrades Latrobe transport frustrationLatrobe City Mayor Cr Sharon Gibson said, "We welcome stronger investment in the bus network across the state, but we are very disappointed that Latrobe City is not included in this latest announcement on bus network improvements. And it's not just more bus services needed in Latrobe, we also need better alignment between bus and train services." "While we welcome increased V/Line services on the Gippsland train line from the start of the year, these changes have not been coordinated with local bus services to meet the needs of our community. In many cases, passengers are facing long connection delays or missed services due to poor alignment between trains and buses. It's not uncommon for our school students to have to wait for over half an hour for a connecting service." "For regional communities, connections are not optional, they are essential. People rely on coordinated services to get to work, school and appointments, and without this, the network simply doesn't function as intended," she said. Regional transit inequalityCr Gibson said, "Regional Victorians are effectively subsidising free public transport for Melbourne, while being left with services that are less reliable, less connected and underinvested. Regional communities like ours deserve to be part of a fair and well-connected public transport network that works for everyone. As it stands, public transport simply isn't a viable option to get around for many people in Latrobe City." "Local bus networks in most regional cities, including ours, have not been reviewed in more than 15 years. Without access to reliable and well-connected bus services, many residents are left with no choice but to rely on their cars, increasing cost of living pressures on households already doing it though." "Latrobe City Council remains committed to working with the Victorian government, the Department of Transport and Planning and local bus operators to deliver affordable, better coordinated and more responsive bus services that meet the needs of our growing regional community," she said. Transport advocacy pushAs part of ongoing advocacy, Council is continuing to call on both state and federal governments to invest in integrated, well-planned public transport infrastructure to boost efficiencies of our freight network, transport workers to and from jobs, and bring visitors to our region. Latrobe City Council wrote to the Minister for Public and Active Transport on 7 November 2025 and has since sent a follow up letter asking when a response would be received. The letter requested a comprehensive review of the Latrobe City bus network, including community consultation, development, and delivery of a reformed network that improves coverage, reliability, and service hours across Latrobe City. Transport funding gapCouncil also requested, subject to the findings of the review, that funding be allocated in the 2026/27 State Government Budget to implement accessibility upgrades across the network, including infrastructure improvements such as seating, shelters, lighting, and accessible pathways to bus stops. However, this funding was not specifically provided for in the 2026/27 State Budget. Providing safe, fast and reliable public transport is vital to local communities. It supports access to essential health, education and professional services, transports workers to and from jobs, and attracts visitors to our region. Pictures from Latrobe City Council Facebook page.
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: news@gippsland.com
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Gippsland Regional Livestock Exchange recorded a remarkable 122% increase in cattle throughput last financial year, making it the highest percentage increase of any saleyard in Australia. - Stewart Road Bridge reconstruction in Kernot approved, $1.768M federal funding restores vital community infrastructure
Bass Coast Council’s Stewart Road Bridge reconstruction in Kernot approved, receiving $1.768 million federal funding, restoring safe access, supporting local residents, industry, emergency services, with tendering expected early 2026. - Melina Bath criticises politicised VEAC, failing land management, while $1.4M could fund bushfire prevention, environmental services
Melina Bath warns Victorian hunters and anglers against reduced services as Labor pushes VFA-GMA merger, urging proper funding, training, and enforcement to protect compliance, sustainability, and regional outdoor traditions. - East Gippsland Council advances regional projects, improving facilities, accessibility, resilience and growth
East Gippsland Council is delivering major regional projects, upgrades, improving accessibility, supporting resilience, and enhancing infrastructure across towns including Bairnsdale, Buchan, Mallacoota, Cann River, and Paynesville. - Allan Labor government backs regional footy and netball with $1.5M from 2025-26 Country Football and Netball Program
The Allan Labor government is investing $1.5 million in Morwell sports clubs through the Country Football and Netball Program, while opening new grants to upgrade regional facilities and boost community participation. - East Gippsland Council advances regional projects, boosting infrastructure, accessibility, recreation, resilience and growth
East Gippsland Council progresses major projects, enhancing community facilities, infrastructure, accessibility, resilience, and recreational opportunities across Bairnsdale, Buchan, Mallacoota, Cann River, Paynesville, and surrounding areas. - CFMEU corruption report exposes organised crime links, $15B project blowouts, prompting Melina Bath to demand Labor accountability
The ‘Rotting from the Top’ report exposes serious CFMEU corruption, links to organised crime, and $15 billion in project blowouts, prompting Nationals MP Melina Bath to demand Allan Labor government accountability. - Danny O'Brien congratulates Sandy Point and Loch Sport Men's Sheds receiving state funding to enhance community facilities
Sandy Point and Loch Sport Men's Sheds have received over $43,000 in state funding to upgrade facilities, recognising their vital role in supporting men's wellbeing and community connection. - Darren Chester welcomes $6.2M Traralgon Recreation Reserve redevelopment with upgraded facilities for Latrobe Valley sports clubs
Darren Chester welcomed the $6.2 million Traralgon Recreation Reserve redevelopment, providing modern changerooms and upgraded facilities through joint funding to support Latrobe Valley sports and long-term community participation. - Labor provides rebates and programs to help regional households switch from costly gas to cheaper electric appliances
The Allan Labor government is supporting 1,183 regional households impacted by Solstice's gas network closure with rebates, discounts, and programs to help them transition to cheaper, energy-efficient electric appliances. - Martin Cameron demands action as data reveals dangerous one-star safety ratings on Latrobe Valley roads
Nationals MP Martin Cameron has condemned the poor safety of Latrobe Valley roads, after state data revealed many key routes rated one or two stars, demanding urgent government action. - Danny O’Brien encourages missed applicants to apply for round two Sporting Club Grants funding opportunities by 7 April 2026
Many Gippsland South sporting clubs and community groups secured 2025–26 Sporting Club Grants funding, boosting facilities, equipment, and volunteers, with Danny O’Brien encouraging unsuccessful clubs to apply for round two. - Eastern Victoria to receive over $1M for improved walking, cycling, and regional transport links
Eastern Victoria communities will benefit from over $1 million in funding for walking, cycling, and bus stop upgrades, improving local transport links through the Labor government’s Flexible Local Transport Solutions Program. - One Gippsland welcomes Budget support for regional education, health, roads and skills, noting tourism gaps
One Gippsland welcomes Victorian 2026-27 Budget initiatives aligning with its advocacy, highlighting improvements in education, health, skills, roads and regional services, while noting gaps in tourism and regional cost-of-living equity. - Darren Chester urges Gippslanders to support local artisans, makers, and small businesses this holiday season
Federal Member Darren Chester encourages Gippslanders to shop local this Christmas, supporting artisans, makers, and small businesses like Emporium 3844, boosting the regional economy and celebrating community talent. - Newhaven residents invited to shape safer roads, transport and future traffic planning through community feedback until 27 May 2026
Bass Coast Shire Council is seeking Newhaven community feedback on transport and road safety to inform a Local Area Traffic Management Plan improving movement, safety, infrastructure planning and future funding priorities. - Gippsland to join European Union Program showcasing regional innovation in clean energy, tourism, agriculture and sustainable development
Gippsland has been selected for a European Union research program, showcasing its leadership in clean energy, tourism, and agriculture while promoting international collaboration, innovation, and investment through the IURC initiative. - Melina Bath said CFA volunteers face risks due to aging equipment and $55M funding shortfall since 2020
The CFA faces a $50 million deficit as volunteers fight fires with aging equipment, with funding lagging inflation despite Allan Labor’s claims, exposing ongoing crisis and growing pressure on brigades. - Danny O’Brien congratulates Gippsland Volunteer Emergency Services on VESEP funding support
Danny O’Brien praised Gippsland volunteer emergency services for VESEP funding, supporting vital equipment, facility upgrades, and ongoing advocacy for a new Port Welshpool Coast Guard vessel to ensure community safety. - Community feedback supports retaining Moe Gardens Caravan Park as affordable short-stay accommodation in Latrobe City
Latrobe City Council received 223 community submissions supporting Moe Gardens Caravan Park’s retention as low-cost accommodation, with a report on its future to return to Council February 2026. - Darren Chester welcomes Bairnsdale Centre’s innovative regional healthcare expansion and access improvements
Darren Chester praised Bairnsdale’s Centre Combined Health, highlighting its innovative model improving regional access to specialists, allied health, wellness services, and addressing workforce challenges in East Gippsland. - Darren Chester meets One Gippsland leaders to advocate regional priorities ahead of 2026 federal budget
Gippsland MP Darren Chester met One Gippsland leaders in Canberra, advocating regional priorities ahead of the 2026 Federal Budget to boost economy, jobs, connectivity, disaster resilience, and community development. - Martin Cameron questions Labor government for denying regional crime crisis and the ongoing failures of 'Bail Laws'
The Nationals' Martin Cameron has accused the Allan Labor government of failing Victorians with weak bail laws, after repeat offenders continue to walk free and regional crime remains out of control. - Martin Cameron slams Labor’s delayed Loy Yang rehabilitation plan, calling it tone-deaf and ignoring immediate Latrobe Valley job losses
Morwell MP Martin Cameron criticises Labor’s delayed Loy Yang rehabilitation plan, calling it tone-deaf, failing to provide immediate jobs or industry support for the Latrobe Valley amid coal power closures. - Melina Bath urges eastern Victoria residents to prepare properties and plans for heightened bushfire risk this summer
The Nationals’ Melina Bath urges eastern Victoria residents to prepare properties, review Bushfire Survival Plans, and stay informed to reduce risk and protect families, pets, and communities this summer. - Darren Chester tears down Albanese government's 'lazy' plan to cut regional speed limits, urges investment in safer roads
Darren Chester has criticised the Albanese government's plan to lower regional speed limits, labelling it "lazy" and urging greater investment in repairing and upgrading unsafe roads to reduce fatalities. - Melina Bath invites local community and sporting clubs to apply for Regional All Abilities Grants by 19 November 2025
Melina Bath encourages regional clubs to apply for 2025 Regional All Abilities Participation Grants, supporting inclusive programs, specialised equipment, workforce, and disability-led initiatives. Applications close 19 November 2025. - Martin Cameron slams Energy Minister D'Ambrosio's false claims on power prices and jobs in Latrobe Valley
Nationals MP Martin Cameron condemned Energy Minister Lily D'Ambrosio's claims of delivering for Latrobe Valley, citing soaring power prices, weak jobs growth, and neglect of residents during Victoria's energy transition. - Melina Bath demands Allan government deliver promised 'Youth Crime Prevention Program' for Latrobe Valley
The Nationals are demanding the Allan government deliver the long-promised Youth Crime Prevention Program in Latrobe Valley, addressing rising youth crime, restoring diversion programs, and supporting at-risk young people effectively. - Tim Bull urges better local firewood access from roadside clearing to ease East Gippsland shortages before winter arrives
Tim Bull urges authorities to make roadside clearing timber available locally, expand collection areas, and improve access to firewood for East Gippsland communities ahead of winter shortages. - Six-year Thurra River campground closure triggers renewed demands for urgent government action before summer
Tim Bull says East Gippslanders face another summer without Thurra River’s main campground, urging the Minister to expedite long-delayed approvals after six years, stressing local businesses rely on its reopening. - Darren Chester elected Nationals Deputy Leader, pledges stronger voice for regional Australia and Gippsland communities
Darren Chester has been elected Deputy Leader of The Nationals, serving with leader Matt Canavan, pledging to strengthen regional voices and advocate for Gippsland and rural Australians in Canberra. - Middle of Everywhere ANZAC Week Airshow returns celebrating aviation, ANZAC spirit and regional pride at West Sale Airport on 18-19 April 2026
The Middle of Everywhere ANZAC Week Airshow returns 18–19 April at West Sale Airport, featuring thrilling aerobatics, military and civilian aircraft displays, and up-close experiences celebrating aviation, ANZAC spirit, and regional pride. - Prime Minister accused of misleading claim over wine tourism program as budget cut sparks regional industry backlash and political dispute
The Prime Minister faces criticism over claims a wine tourism program was saved, despite budget cuts, sparking backlash over regional impacts and industry funding concerns. - Danny O'Brien criticises Labor's police station maintenance cuts despite backflip restoring partial funding for grounds upkeep
Danny O'Brien has criticised Labor's partial backflip on police station maintenance cuts, saying Gippsland officers deserve safe, clean workplaces and stronger government support amid rising regional crime rates. - Melina Bath appointed Shadow Minister for Outdoor Recreation, championing regional lifestyles and economic opportunities
Melina Bath has been appointed Shadow Minister for Outdoor Recreation, pledging to champion outdoor access, community wellbeing, and the vital economic and lifestyle benefits outdoor activities bring to regional Victoria. - City of Traralgon Band gifts council commemorative photograph after successful international remembrance tour
The City of Traralgon Band gifted Latrobe City Council a photograph commemorating their UK and Europe Tour of Remembrance, including performances at Menin Gate and recognition with two awards. - Bass Coast Shire Council delivers new shared path linking Cowes and Ventnor, boosting transport safety and community connectivity
Bass Coast Shire Council will deliver a new 2km Ventnor Road Shared Path, linking Cowes and Ventnor, improving safety, accessibility, and community connectivity. The $1.96m project is jointly funded with the Australian government. - Gippsland students return to classrooms rated poor or below average, exposing Labor’s neglect of regional schools, says Danny O'Brien
As Gippsland students return to school in 2026, 18 regional schools are rated poor or below average, highlighting Labor’s neglect and urgent need for infrastructure investment, says Danny O’Brien. - Gippsland welcomes $50M Renewable Energy TAFE Centre in Morwell, boosting jobs and regional transition to renewable energy future
One Gippsland welcomes $50 million investment in Morwell Renewable Energy TAFE Centre, boosting workforce training and supporting Gippsland’s clean energy transition and future job growth. - Omeo celebrates opening of 114 km world-class mountain bike park set to transform regional adventure tourism
Omeo has opened a $10 million, 114-kilometre mountain bike park, boosting tourism, supporting local businesses, and celebrating new streetscape and flood-recovery works that strengthen the town’s recreation spaces and future growth. - Melina Bath warns neighbourhood houses face financial strain, risking essential services due to stagnant government funding
Hundreds rallied at Victoria Parliament urging Allan government to provide funding certainty for neighbourhood houses, protecting essential community services supporting vulnerable residents and preventing closures. - South Gippsland Remembrance Day services to be held in various locations and other council updates
South Gippsland marks Remembrance Day on 11 November with local services honouring veterans. Plus, free green waste disposal, festive giving initiatives, business support, community events, and engagement opportunities across the region this spring. - Peri-Urban Councils warn residents stranded, demand urgent investment in reliable public transport infrastructure
Peri Urban Councils Victoria warns fast-growing communities face car dependency due to poor public transport, urging government investment in reliable, frequent buses, better timetables, and long-term integrated transport planning. - Darren Chester welcomes $2.7M investment in cutting-edge MRI technology at Bairnsdale Regional Health Service
A $2.7 million upgrade at Bairnsdale Regional Health Service includes Australia's first MRI unit of its kind, improving diagnosis accuracy, patient comfort, and access to affordable, high-quality local healthcare. - Bass Coast Council leaders advocating events, infrastructure, recreation, coastal protection, public transport, and environmental conservation
Bass Coast Council leaders held 12 Parliament meetings, advocating for events, infrastructure, recreation, coastal protection, public transport, and environmental conservation, seeking government support and funding for key community projects. - Tim Bull urges Labor government to stop costly brumby culling amid Parks Victoria job and funding cuts
Tim Bull urges Labor to halt costly brumby culling in East Gippsland, citing job losses, funding cuts, and greater threats from feral pigs, while advocating for more responsible taxpayer spending. - Martin Cameron says Labor fails on crime, wasting millions on machete bins instead of protecting Gippsland
Crime in Latrobe has surged under Labor, with Moe incidents up 26% and retail theft 65%. Nationals' Martin Cameron says only their Safer Communities Plan will restore safety. - Danny O’Brien urges AusNet to improve reliability amid Gippsland’s frequent power outages and rising costs
Danny O’Brien has criticised ongoing Gippsland power outages, urging AusNet to improve reliability as households, farms and businesses face disruptions, rising costs, and increased reliance on expensive diesel generators. - Lightfoot Wines combines tradition, creativity, and Gippsland flavours with award-winning wines, regional platters, and scenic views
Perched on a limestone bluff above the Mitchell River, Lightfoot Wines blends tradition and innovation, offering tastings, regional platters, and acclaimed wines, cementing its role in Gippsland's food and drink scene. - Drouin Picnic Racing Club receives $13,519 upgrade boost through Allan Labor government's Regional Customer Facilities Program
Drouin Picnic Racing Club will receive $13,519 to upgrade facilities and enhance race day experiences, part of the Allan Labor government's $730,000 investment improving regional racing venues statewide. - Darren Chester presented to Five CHC Helicopter crew awarded National Emergency Medals for heroic Black Summer bushfire service
Five CHC Helicopter personnel based at East Sale RAAF Base received National Emergency Medals for courageous, lifesaving service during the 2019–20 Black Summer bushfires across Gippsland communities. - One Gippsland urges stronger climate action and investment to build regional disaster resilience
One Gippsland is calling for urgent government action, investment and policy reform to strengthen disaster resilience, improve planning, and protect coastal communities facing increasing climate-related risks and rising economic costs. - Tim Bull says Health Minister Thomas will only consider the fully prepared Buchan project alongside other priorities
The Allan Labor government has refused funding for the new $6.5 million Buchan Bush Nursing Centre, leaving the ready-to-build project and vital rural healthcare services in limbo, says Tim Bull. - Martin Cameron urges urgent action to secure Traralgon Junior International and protect millions in local economic benefits
Martin Cameron is urging urgent action from Latrobe City Council and the Allan government to upgrade Traralgon Tennis Association facilities and secure the Traralgon Junior International future and its $2.9 million economic benefits. - Danny O'Brien warns Labor is risking beachgoers safety by forcing councils, ratepayers to cover LSV funding shortfalls
Danny O'Brien warns the Allan Labor government is forcing Gippsland councils and ratepayers to cover Life Saving Victoria shortfalls, risking reduced lifeguard patrols despite billions in new emergency services taxes. - Parliamentary Inquiry visits South Gippsland to examine oil, gas decommissioning and regional transition opportunities
State Parliament’s Environment and Planning Committee visited South Gippsland to examine oil and gas decommissioning, and local government perspectives, highlighting infrastructure needs and renewable transition opportunities. - Wellington Shire Council invites open conversations on financial pressures impacting community services, roads, and facilities
Wellington Shire Council faces rising costs, rate caps, and funding pressures, yet remains committed to delivering essential services and urging government reform to better support regional communities into the future. - Gippsland Water celebrates National Water Week poster winners, honouring young regional artists’ achievements
Gippsland Water announced its National Water Week poster winners, congratulating students for colourful submissions. Four placed in the state competition, with Heyfield Primary School winning $500 for STEM or sustainability projects. - Victorian Agency for Health Information data shows ambulance services declining due to Labor's under‑resourcing, mismanagement and denial
The latest data shows Victoria’s ambulance service declining, with fewer than 64% of Code 1 responses within 15 minutes, highlighting regional delays, under‑resourcing, and mismanagement under the Allan Labor government. - Agriculture advisory committee supports East Gippsland farmers through collaboration and regional advocacy initiatives
The Agriculture Sector Advisory Committee advises on policies, programs, and partnerships to support East Gippsland farmers, addressing biosecurity, water security, pest management, and regional agricultural priorities for a resilient sector. - Wellington Early Years Expo returns, offering free family fun, services and play-based activities for young children on 30 April 2026
The 2026 Wellington Early Years Expo returns to the Gippsland Regional Sports Complex in Sale on Thursday 30 April inviting families to enjoy an afternoon of learning and connection for children aged 0–5 years. - Melina Bath condemns Allan government, warns emergency services tax delay is political, not scrapped
Melina Bath condemned the Allan Government for misleading regional Victorians, warning the emergency services tax delay is political, not scrapped, and calling for its full abolition to protect farmers and communities. - Darren Chester praises TAFE Gippsland and BRHS partnership for training local students to strengthen regional health workforce
Darren Chester praised TAFE Gippsland and BRHS for training local students, highlighting regional partnerships as key to addressing health workforce shortages and encouraging young people to pursue local health careers. - 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. - Peri Urban Councils Victoria urges federal action on black and grey telecommunication spots to support regional sustainability and growth
Peri Urban Councils Victoria urges federal action on black and grey telecommunication spots, highlighting risks to communities, emergency warnings, and the need for essential infrastructure recognition and targeted investment. - 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. - Darren Chester celebrates Community College Gippsland’s new Morwell Facility supporting education and regional workforce development
Darren Chester welcomed Community College Gippsland’s new Morwell facility, celebrating its role in empowering students, supporting vocational education, and strengthening Gippsland’s workforce and regional communities. - Darren Chester praises volunteers powering Traralgon International’s global success, showcasing Gippsland worldwide tennis event
Federal MP Darren Chester has praised Latrobe Valley volunteers for driving the success of the Traralgon International, highlighting their dedication, community pride and vital role in showcasing Gippsland globally. - Thurra river bridge finally reopens after five-year delay, fueling local frustration and renewed criticism
The Thurra River Bridge has reopened after five and a half years, prompting relief and anger, with MP Tim Bull criticising prolonged delays, economic impacts, and unfinished fire recovery projects across East Gippsland. - Gippsland CFA volunteers still wait for critical fire station upgrades amid $55M Labor funding cuts
Gippsland CFA volunteers face years-long delays for safe, modern fire stations as Labor cuts $55 million, reducing equipment, compensation, and infrastructure, putting communities at risk and demanding urgent funding. - Life Saving Victoria families invited to Emergency Services Foundation Family Day celebrating service and wellbeing on 26 April 2026
Life Saving Victoria families are invited to ESF Family Day at Gumbuya World on April 26, celebrating emergency workers, supporting family wellbeing, and providing mental health resources. - Melina Bath urges Labor government to scrap emergency services tax as VFF survey shows farmers' frustration and concern
The Nationals' Melina Bath urged the Allan Labor government to scrap the emergency services tax, citing VFF survey findings showing widespread financial, mental, and regulatory pressures on Victorian farmers. - Darren Chester quits shadow ministry, vows to keep fighting for Gippsland and regional Australia
Gippsland MP Darren Chester has resigned from the Coalition shadow ministry but says he remains committed to representing Gippslanders and regional Australians in Parliament despite political tensions over legislation proposed. - Darren Chester elected Deputy Leader of the Nationals, pledges stronger representation for regional Australia
Darren Chester has been elected Deputy Leader of The Nationals, pledging to amplify regional voices, hold the government accountable, and deliver stronger, fairer outcomes for Gippsland and regional Australia. - Darren Chester warns Labor-Greens EPBC reforms threaten Gippsland timber industry, jobs, and regional communities
Darren Chester warns Labor-Greens EPBC reforms threaten Gippsland’s native hardwood and plantation timber industry, risking jobs, regional communities, sustainable forest management, and increasing reliance on imported timber products. - East Gippsland Shire backs $15M Bairnsdale Airport upgrade to boost emergency response and healthcare services regionally
East Gippsland Shire Council has backed a $15 million Bairnsdale Airport upgrade, extending the runway to boost emergency response, healthcare services, and regional aviation, supported by government funding and health agencies. - Farm Field Day boosts production, biodiversity, carbon reduction and income with shelterbelts on 2 December 2025
Join us at Bushy Park on 2 December to learn from experts and farmers how shelterbelts boost production, biodiversity, carbon reduction, and farm income, with practical tips and funding advice. - Omeo gains new modular worker accommodation, supporting healthcare staff and strengthening regional community
Omeo District Health's new modular worker accommodation is underway, providing housing for healthcare staff, supporting regional jobs, and helping the town attract and retain doctors, nurses, and essential workers. - Melina Bath praises Gippsland seafood excellence at Victorian Industry Awards, highlighting quality and sustainability
Melina Bath praised Gippsland seafood businesses in state parliament, highlighting quality, sustainability, local jobs, and regional economic contribution at the 2026 Victorian Industry Seafood Awards. - Melina Bath praises Gippsland seafood excellence at Victorian Industry Awards, highlighting quality and sustainability
Melina Bath praised Gippsland seafood businesses in state parliament, highlighting quality, sustainability, local jobs, and regional economic contribution at the 2026 Victorian Industry Seafood Awards. - Martin Cameron criticises Labor for reducing Hazelwood Road speed limit instead of repairing dangerous regional road conditions
Nationals MP Martin Cameron criticises Labor for reducing Hazelwood Road’s speed limit instead of repairing its deteriorating surface, calling for urgent action to improve regional road safety. - Darren Chester honours Gippsland farmers and workers on National Agriculture Day for vital regional contributions
Darren Chester has praised Gippsland’s farmers and agricultural workers on National Agriculture Day, recognising their resilience, vital economic contribution and essential role in sustaining local communities and ensuring ongoing food security. - Labor government delivers $2.73M Sale Hospital upgrade, modernising Community Services building for Gippsland healthcare staff
The Allan Labor government is delivering a $2.73 million upgrade to Sale Hospital's historic Community Services Building, modernising facilities for healthcare workers, patients, and students through the Regional Health Infrastructure Fund. - Gippsland Water reaches 100 percent renewable electricity target, cutting emissions by 20,000 tonnes toward 2030 net zero
Gippsland Water has achieved 100% renewable electricity by 2025, cutting 20,000 tonnes of emissions annually and advancing its ambitious goal of net zero emissions by 2030, 20 years ahead of schedule. - Darren Chester welcomed Generous Gippsland fund supporting local projects and lasting community-led regional change
Darren Chester has welcomed Generous Gippsland, a new community fund supporting local projects, strengthening regional resilience and ensuring Gippsland contributions remain locally guided and impactful. - Princes Highway $2M upgrade improves safety and access for pedestrians at Lakes Entrance and Kalimna
Nearly $2 million in joint government funding will upgrade Princes Highway at Lakes Entrance and Kalimna, improving pedestrian safety, access, and traffic flow with new medians, lighting, safety platforms, and path reconstruction. - Darren Chester secures $20,000 to preserve Tambo Valley trenches commemorating Victoria's WWII history
Darren Chester secured $20,000 funding to preserve the historic Tambo Valley Trenches, enhancing access, safety, and interpretation, while honouring East Gippsland's wartime history and boosting cultural tourism along the Great Alpine Road. - One Gippsland urges new major event to replace MotoGP, boosting tourism and regional economy
One Gippsland urges the 2026 Victorian budget to replace MotoGP with a new major event, boosting tourism, jobs, and economic growth while supporting cultural, nature-based, and renewable energy initiatives. - 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. - Melina Bath criticises Labor for six-year delay restoring Thurra River Campground after 2019-20 bushfires
Eastern Victoria MP Melina Bath criticises Labor’s six-year delay restoring Thurra River Campground, highlighting unsafe facilities, limited capacity, and urgent need for infrastructure replacement to support local families and tourism. - Darren Chester welcomes Minister Catherine King’s confirmation that the Eastern Beach Road intersection remains a priority
The federal government has increased funding to $6.6 million for the Lakes Entrance road safety upgrade, but Federal MP Darren Chester says state government delays continue to stall the vital project. - Southern Rural Water invites community to have your say on future water services, pricing and sustainability
Southern Rural Water invites the community to help shape future water pricing and services, balancing cost, access, sustainability, and regional needs across southern Victoria. - Gippsland launches Offshore Wind Sector Plan guiding development, jobs, clean energy and regional growth
Gippsland Offshore Wind Alliance launches Sector Plan to guide offshore wind development, supporting clean energy transition, investment, jobs and regional economic growth across the region. - Darren Chester demands explanation after sudden Yarram sawmill closure cost over seventy jobs
Federal MP Darren Chester calls for clarity after Yarram AKD sawmill closure, which unexpectedly cut over 70 jobs, threatening local families and prompting demands for full employee entitlements. - Gippsland Water completes Baw Baw Leak Detection Program, repairing hidden leaks to improve service reliability and reduce water loss
Gippsland Water's Baw Baw leak detection program surveyed 425 km of mains, uncovering 128 leaks. Repairs improve service reliability, reduce water loss, and support proactive network maintenance across the region. - West Gippsland CMA invites dairy farmers to join effluent management project, expressions of interest open from 1-30 April 2026
South Gippsland dairy farmers can apply for funding from 1 April 2026 to improve effluent management, boost soil health, reduce river pollution, and implement sustainable farm practices with expert guidance. - Tim Bull trashes misused Treasurer’s Advance as Allan government wastes $9M on costly failed camping trial
The Allan government spent $9 million in emergency funds on a failed free-camping trial, creating "ghost bookings" and hurting local businesses, prompting Nationals MP Tim Bull to condemn the misuse and demand accountability. - 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.
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