In a year filled with challenges for young people in the realm of anxiety, depression, suicide, self-harm and bullying, Australia’s largest youth wellbeing event, Stand Tall, is sharing an overwhelmingly positive story of impact, hope and change.

In 2025 alone, Stand Tall reached over 6,700 students through live events and a further 57,200 students, parents and teachers through its free online Replay, delivering powerful mental health messages to young people across the country.

The results speak volumes. Following attendance at a Stand Tall event in 2025:

• G7% of students felt more equipped to overcome challenges in life
• G7% of students said they would like to attend a Stand Tall event again
• G5% of students felt more hopeful about their future

The impact was equally strong for educators supporting students on the frontline. After attending Stand Tall with their school in 2025:

• 100% of teachers believed Stand Tall positively impacted their students
• 100% of teachers would recommend Stand Tall to other schools
• 100% of teachers said Stand Tall is a beneficial mental health resource

• 100% of teachers believed Stand Tall equipped their students to overcome adversity

Stand Tall events featured world-class speakers who shared authentic, hard-hitting and hopeful stories, including Jazz Thornton (Social Media Influencer with over 2 millio followers on Tik Tok and Founder of ‘Voice of Hope’, Daniel Flynn (Founder Thank You brand that has raised over $18 million to help end world poverty, Leila Abdallah (Mother who tragically lost 3 of her previous children to a drunk and drugged driver and then founded ‘i4give day’ sharing about the power of forgiveness), and more – each leaving a lasting impression on thousands of young Australians.

Reflecting on the year, Stand Tall CEO and Co-Founder Angela Farr-Jones said:

“There is nothing better than receiving the feedback comments from the students in their post-event surveys after each event. Every year it brings me to tears reading how the impact of the speakers’ messages has without doubt changed their lives for the better. It certainly makes all the hard work worthwhile.”

The voices of students and teachers echo this sentiment. One student shared:

“Stand Tall was one of the best things that ever happened to me. I would do anything to come again and after today I know I am going to change.”

A teacher reflected on the experience, saying:

“I wanted to say a huge thank you to the team for putting on such a fantastic, authentic, and honest event. Our students were so positive about the whole day – amazing considering the strong messages you included. The way the presenters shaped the conversations, coupled with the high-energy sessions, made it such a memorable and hope-filled day. It is an incredible thing you are doing.”

As the year draws to a close, Stand Tall is pleased to remind parents, grandparents, young people, community leaders and even workplaces that its free online Replay remains available. Everyone has young people in their world, and Stand Tall encourages Australians to use the school holidays to intentionally inspire hope – in between Netflix, YouTube and TikTok scrolling. The Replay features five world-class messages, making it a meaningful family night activity or a powerful summer afternoon watch.

The Replay can be accessed at: https://www.standtallevent.com/replay

As a not-for-profit organisation, Stand Tall continues to face challenges covering operational costs, but remains deeply committed to ensuring young people can access life-changing messages of hope. This commitment is why the Replay remains free, and why Stand Tall continues to subsidise ticket and transport costs for schools wherever possible, that would otherwise be unable to attend.

Those who are in a position to support the work of Stand Tall and help build positive mental health in Australian youth are asked to consider making a tax deductible donation by visiting standtallevent.com or https://stand-tall-end-of-year-appeal- 2025.raiselysite.com/.

As Victorian’s prepare for back-to-back days of soaring temperatures, Ambulance Victoria (AV) paramedics are sharing tips to help stay safe and beat the heat.

High temperatures can negatively affect medical conditions such as chronic illnesses, while also increasing the risk of serious heat-related illnesses, including heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

AV State Health Commander Ross Salathiel said although heat stroke is entirely preventable, it is fatal in up to 80 per cent of cases.

“While people most at risk are the elderly, young children and those with medical conditions, heat and heat-related illnesses can affect anybody,” he said.

“Heat stroke is a life-threatening medical emergency that happens when the body overheats and can no longer cool itself down.

“If you or someone else is experiencing symptoms such as confusion, seizures, excessive sweating or no sweating, collapsing or loss of consciousness, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

“To reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses, stay hydrated by drinking water regularly, find a cool place to stay such as shopping centres or at home with fans and air conditioning, use sun protection such as wearing a hat and sunscreen, and avoid being outside during the hottest time of the day.”

AV is also encouraging everyone to stay informed by downloading the VicEmergency App.

For non-life-threatening situations that still require a medical response, Mr Salathiel encouraged Victorians to use available alternative care options.

“Our priority will always be responding to the sickest people and we ask Victorians to help us save ambulances for emergencies by knowing their healthcare options,” he said.

“If you need timely medical care and health advice but don’t need an emergency response, consider a free online video call with the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department (VVED) or visiting your local Urgent Care Clinic,” he said.

“Other useful resources are Nurse-On-Call (1300 60 60 24) which offers free medical advice 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and your local GP or pharmacy.”

Here are our top hot weather tips:

• Stay hydrated by drinking water regularly throughout the day.
• Take care around water – supervise children and keep an eye on friends.
• Keep cool by using air conditioning and fans whenever possible.
• Wear a hat and sunscreen and avoid being outside during the hottest part of the day.

For more information on staying safe in the heat, visit www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au or the Ambulance Victoria website at www.ambulance.vic.gov.au/heat-health

The highly anticipated annual summer Australian Lamb ad is back, and this year it tackles the news that Australia dropped out of the World’s Top 10 Happiest Countries List for the first time ever in March last year. Sitting at 11th, Australian Lamb believes the official index doesn’t capture what really makes us happy.

Proving just how uniquely Aussie our version of happiness really is, this year’s ad highlights the moments that encapsulates the unmistakable Aussie way of life. From sausage sizzles at the hardware store, to ducking into the shops in your swimmers: the ad reminds us that happiness isn’t about rankings – but about togetherness, the outdoors, and a good lamb meal being shared.

Backing this up, Australian Lamb conducted its own research, polling real Aussies in its own national Australian Happiness Census.

The results? We’re a happy bunch, with 3 out of 4 (74%) saying that we’re happy most days, or even going so far as to say always. Across the population the average score of happiness was a solid 7.3 out of 10, with Millennials leading the way (85% say they are either happy most days or always). The keys to Aussie happiness include spending time outdoors, our friendly people, and our beautiful wildlife and nature.

It’s no surprise that eating lamb also correlates with Aussies being happier than those who don’t. Half of Australians (49%) said it should be a weekly ritual, with roast leg of lamb topping the list among happy Aussies (52%), followed by chops (42%) and cutlets (39%).

The research also uncovered other happiness boosters: getting outdoors three to four times a week makes Aussies nearly three times more likely to feel good always, than those getting outdoors less often. Cracking a beer with anything rates at 7.5/10. Even early-morning run-clubbers get bragging rights, with 86% claiming happiness after their 6am jog and coffee ritual.

Australians’ unique quirks and etiquette also show why the World Happiness Index may not quite ‘get’ us. For example, 41% think calling someone ‘Cupcake’ could be offensive, while ‘Mate’ or “Legend” is generally foolproof – with only 7% of Aussies considering these as no-go. These little cultural twists make us delightfully Aussie.

Nathan Low, General Manager for Marketing and Insights at MLA, said:
“At first glance, the World Happiness Index might suggest Australians have lost their spark. But our research tells a different story – happiness here isn’t about rankings, it’s about togetherness, shared experiences, and the simple joys that make life distinctly Aussie. Nothing brings people together like an epic lamb BBQ, and this campaign celebrates the humour, camaraderie, and unmistakable Aussie spirit that keep us smiling every day.”

Watch the long-form film via the Australian Lamb YouTube page or view the content at www.australianlamb.com.au.

Victoria’s Emergency Management Commissioner has issued a warning for extreme heat from today, January 6 to Saturday, January 10.

Severe to Extreme heat is forecast statewide:

• Severe intensity heat is forecast in parts of North East and East Gippsland districts from Wednesday.
• It will extend to the rest of the state from Thursday.
• Severe heat is more dangerous for people over 65 years old, the very young and those with a pre-existing medical condition.
• Extreme intensity heat is forecast in the North East and East Gippsland districts from Thursday.
• This will extend to Northern Country, West and South Gippsland and parts of North Central from Friday.
• Extreme heat can make anyone sick.

Locations most at risk of Extreme heat include Echuca, Shepparton, Seymour, Wangaratta, Albury-Wodonga, all Alpine areas and East Gippsland.

In the north:

• Maximum temperatures will be in the mid to high 30s today, increasing to low to mid 40s on Wednesday and Thursday.
• Overnight minimum temperatures will be in the low to mid teens, increasing to the low 20s by Thursday.

In the south:

• Maximum temperatures in the low to mid 30s today, increasing to the low 40s on Wednesday and Thursday.
• Overnight minimum temperatures in the low to mid teens, increasing to the high teens to low 20s by Thursday.

Coastal areas:

• Maximum temperatures will be in the low 20s today, increasing to the mid 30s on Wednesday and Thursday.
• Overnight minimum temperatures in the low to mid teens, increasing to the low 20s about the east coast on Thursday.

Continuous extreme heat during the day and night can stop the body from cooling down normally. It can cause heat illness and even heatstroke, which is life-threatening.

Prepare now to stay safe in the heat. Be aware of the risk of heat-related health problems and plan ahead to keep yourself and others safe.

What you should do:

Protect your health:

• Heat can make anyone sick.
• People over 65 years old, the very young and those with a pre-existing medical condition are most at risk.
• Back-to-back days of extreme heat, coupled with high overnight temperatures, can interfere with your body’s natural ability to cool down and can cause heat illness, including cramps and heat exhaustion. If left untreated, this can lead to heatstroke, which is a life-threatening illness.
• Stay cool on hot days: Use an air conditioner or a fan, wear light and loose clothing, or splash or spray cool water onto your skin.
• Keep hydrated: Always take a drink bottle with you.
• Check in with family, friends and neighbours: Let people know you are OK or check in on those at increased risk including people over the age of 65, young children and babies, pregnant women, people with acute or chronic health problems and people who are socially isolated.
• Plan ahead: Cancel or reschedule activities for a cooler time of the day and check the weather forecast regularly.
• Heat can stress pets. Provide cool, clean water and shade for your pets and animals.
• Know the symptoms of heat-related illness and monitor your health.

Plan ahead and keep up to date with weather forecasts. To find out more information visit: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/heat-stress-and-heat-related-illness.

For health advice:

• Call Nurse on Call on 1300 60 60 24 or see your doctor if you require medical advice.
• If you need urgent attention, visit your local Priority Primary Care Centre.
• In a non-life threatening emergency contact the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department.
• Or in a life threatening emergency call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

Be safe when swimming:

If you are seeking respite from the heat at beaches, rivers or inland waterways, take care:

• Learn about rip current safety.
• Swim at patrolled beach locations between the red and yellow flags.
• Monitor weather reports for changing conditions.
• Wear a lifejacket when boating.
• Read safety signs at waterways.
• Consider your own safety when attempting a rescue.
• Respect the river by looking for hidden dangers, such as submerged objects.
• Always supervise children around water. If they are under five years old, they should be within arm’s reach, and those 10 years old and under should remain in your line of sight.
• Find a patrolled swimming location at beachsafe.org.au.

Events:

• Event organisers should consider their capacity to run safe events in these conditions.

If your power goes out:

• Keep your skin wet using a spray bottle or damp sponge.
• Take cool showers or foot baths with cool tap water.
• Wear light and loose-fitting clothing.
• Consider visiting an air-conditioned building such as a shopping centre or public library.
• Use blinds or curtains to block the sun from shining directly through windows.

Impacts in your area:

• Power outages are more likely during hot weather due to equipment failures, high demand and the impact of bushfires.
• For information on how to prepare for and deal with power outages, visit www.energy.vic.gov.au/safety-and-emergencies/power-outages.

Heat can cause serious and potentially fatal health problems such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke, trigger sudden events like heart attack or stroke, or worsen existing medical conditions like kidney or lung disease.

Join Lake Mist — Vanessa Craven and Zdena Schwangmeier  — for an unforgettable live performance blending award-winning originals and inspired covers at Spice of India, Daylesford.

Folk, blues, alt-country, jazz, swing, and Indian influences come together in a vibrant, euphoric musical journey you won’t want to miss.
Dates : 10^th, 17^th,24th, and 31^st January 2026 @ Spice of India, 2891 Ballan- Daylesford Road, Daylesford 3460  Ph.53482994

http://spiceofindiarestaurant.online/

https://www.acousticsessions.com.au/

North Haven in Ballarat North will be open on Saturday 31 January and Sunday 1 February 2026.

North Haven is a secluded, design-led family garden created by landscape designer Paddy Milne (The Scape Artist) over nearly a decade. Visitors enter through stone pillars and a bespoke Oregon timber gate into a calm, private sanctuary.

The north-facing courtyard offers lush planting, a built-in daybed and a wood-fired pizza oven, while the raised semi-circular lawn at the rear provides space for play and relaxation.

With a developing canopy and layered planting throughout, North Haven is a garden where strong structure meets soft, immersive planting — a true suburban retreat.

There will be a coffee cart at this opening and some of the proceeds from this opening will be donated to WRISC – Family Violence Support Inc.

Where: 13 Loren Close, Ballarat North VIC 3350
Times: Open 10-4.30pm
Entry: $10 Adults/$6 Students (with a valid student card)/Under 18 or students with an annual OGV Student Pass (with ID) – Free via Trybooking.

Forest Fire Management Victoria Chief Fire Officer Chris Hardman has shared information about staying safe this fire season.

“Bushfire management is a shared responsibility. It is one we (FFMVic) share with other agencies (such as CFA), but it is also one we share with you. There are some simple steps you can take to help reduce your risk from bushfire.

1. Visit the CFA website to help you get started on a Bushfire Plan so you know what you will do in case of fire
2. Download and get to know the VicEmergency app – then set up ‘watch zones’ and turn on notifications to be kept up to date wherever you are
3. Get to know the Australian Fire Danger Ratings System – and work out what fire danger rating will trigger your Bushfire Plan
4. Plan your travel – head to Explore Outdoors to help you stay safe when visiting state forests
5. Never leave a campfire unattended – if they are cool to touch, they are safe to leave. And always put your campfires out with water, not soil.
6. Understand our Essential Water Replacement policy. In a bushfire, FFMVic and CFA may take water from private land to help us fight fires. You can request any essential water be replaced. Check out the Public Land Recovery page on the FFMVic website to see our policy and download the form if you need it.

“Of course, I want you to know we are prepared too; that FFMVic works year-round to ensure we are well positioned to protect communities, assets and the environment from the threat of bushfire.

“We have more than 1800 personnel on the frontline, including year-round and seasonal firefighters, fire lookout observers and support officers, together with hundreds of emergency and incident management staff, firefighting equipment (including hundreds of ultralight and heavy tankers, and more than 1000 additional plant and trucks, including dozers, tractors, graders, loaders, forklifts and excavators); as well as support from the state’s aerial firefighting fleet, comprising a mix of firebombing aircraft, air supervision and information-gathering aircraft.

“Our program of bushfire risk reduction includes planned burns, mowing, mulching, slashing and spraying – ‘fuel management’. Fuel management reduces the amount of vegetation (e.g. grass, leaves, bark, shrubs and small fallen branches) available to ‘fuel’ a fire, thereby reducing the likely speed or intensity of a bushfire. These qualities can help fire crews to respond to and put out fires while they are still small – before they can impact on communities, assets, infrastructure and the environment.

“But fuel management is not our whole program to reduce risk. We work closely with our emergency sector partners to reduce risk in many ways. From preventing new ignitions through fire bans and campfire controls, early detection of bushfires from fire towers and aircraft, to aggressive first attack using aircraft and ground crews and emergency warning and information systems.

“If you are curious about more of this work, the Office of Bushfire Risk Management last month published Victoria’s Bushfire Management Snapshot. The snapshot reports on the broad range of activities our sector undertakes to help reduce bushfire risk. You can find it online at vic.gov.au/victorias-bushfire-management-snapshot.”

The Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Club proudly hosted the Inter-Regional Country Championships from Friday 2 to Sunday 4 January, welcoming an impressive 255 players for what is the largest teams event in Victoria. This prestigious tournament showcased talent across all levels, featuring divisions from 12/u juniors to Open categories and even 50+ age groups, highlighting a true celebration of tennis across generations.

Thanks to the support of the Rural City of Wangaratta, the championship was a resounding success. With strong community backing and enthusiastic participation, the Inter-Regional Country Championships continue to cement their place as a cornerstone event.

Players competed in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles, delivering high-quality tennis and thrilling contests throughout the weekend. The atmosphere was electric as nine country regions came together, the highest representation in recent history, with a warm welcome back to North East and East Gippsland.

A special thank you goes to the Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Club and its dedicated committee for their tireless efforts in organising and running the event. Their hard work ensured smooth operations and an exceptional experience for players and spectators alike. The courts and facilities were in outstanding condition, providing the perfect stage for competitive play.

President Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Club, Sam Allen, said “Wang Lawn couldn’t be more pleased with the amount of people here at the event and the quality of tennis being played on our courts. The courts are performing really well with all the tennis being played”.

After two days of intense competition, finals day on Sunday brought excitement and drama. Mixed doubles winners were crowned in the morning, followed by gendered doubles and singles events. The Women’s and Men’s Open singles finals were played early in the afternoon, producing two first-time champions.

In the Women’s Open, top seed and first-time Open entrant Willow Kelly from Loddon Campaspe defeated South West’s Eloise Swarbrick 6-3, 6-2, continuing her success rate from the 16/u girl singles in Creswick last year. In the Men’s Open, Goulburn teammates Jack Bassett and David Poole battled it out, with Bassett claiming his first title in a thrilling 3-6, 6-4, 10-6 victory over the 2022 champion Poole.

Special mentions go to Asha Taylor Duncan (12/u) and Amra Fleming (14/u), who achieved the rare feat of winning singles, doubles, and mixed doubles in their respective age groups.

After three days of competitive tennis, points from all events were tallied to determine the overall regional champion. Barwon claimed the title for the third consecutive year with a dominant performance across multiple divisions. Goulburn earned the “Most Improved” award after bouncing back strongly from a challenging 2025 campaign.

Tennis Victoria CEO Kim Kachel said “Wangaratta delivered an exceptional weekend that truly showcased the spirit of country tennis. With nine regions coming together and competing with such pride and camaraderie, the Championships highlighted everything that makes regional tennis so special. The Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Club’s outstanding work created a fantastic start to the 2026 Victorian tennis calendar.”

Final Standings:

1. Barwon – 315 points
2. Loddon Campaspe – 294 points
3. Goulburn – 280 points
4. South West – 215 points
5. Wimmera – 187 points
6. Central Highlands – 186 points
7. Mornington Peninsula – 160 points
8. North East – 131 points
9. East Gippsland – 47 points

Tennis Victoria looks forward to announcing next year’s event location and dates soon.

Moorabool Shire Council is proceeding with the design of the highly anticipated indoor pool project at the Moorabool Aquatic and Recreation Centre (MARC).

With funds secured from the Victorian Government ($10 million), and a commitment from the Australian Government ($25 million), along with Council’s $15 million commitment, preparation for the design of the landmark project is underway.

“This marks a major step forward in delivering a long-awaited year-round aquatic facility for the community,” Mayor Cr Paul Tatchell said.

“This is more than just a pool – it’s an investment in the health, wellbeing and future of our community, and we’re excited to get the ball rolling and to bring to life a facility that caters for all ages, abilities and stages of life.”

The $50 million project will deliver a modern, multipurpose aquatic and leisure hub that meets the needs of both locals and visitors and will include a gymnasium, indoor lap pool, toddler play area, learn to swim facilities, a warm water pool and family and accessible change-rooms.

“We wouldn’t be here without the contributions of other levels of government, and we thank them for their investment in Bacchus Marsh and surrounds,” Cr Tatchell said.

“Through the federal government’s election commitment Council has been invited to apply for funding under the Major & Local Community Infrastructure Program for the pool. Applications are due in December this year,” Cr Tatchell said.  “We hope to receive notification of funds sometime in the new year.”

With planning now underway, Council looks forward to sharing the design with the community as it progresses and delivering a facility that will be an outstanding asset for the shire.

For more information on the project: moorabool.vic.gov.au/marc

Moorabool Shire Council (Council) completed its main evidence at the Western Renewables Link (WRL) Environment Effects Statement (EES) public hearing this week.

Approximately 60km of the proposed WRL 190km overhead high-voltage transmission line project runs directly through Moorabool Shire from east to west.

Over four days of the hearing Council made its submission with legal representation and expert evidence, submitting that the project’s impacts had not been adequately assessed, avoided or minimised.

Where impacts had been identified, they were unacceptable.

Council’s view is that AusNet Services must complete further investigation into several parts of the EES before any decisions can be made about the project, including:

• Social impacts

• Economic impacts

•Bushfire impacts

• Agricultural impacts

• Visual impacts.

“Despite the additional costs, Council considers the undergrounding full or partial to be a feasible, future-focused approach that reduces unnecessary impacts,” Mayor Cr Steve Venditti-Taylor said.

Council will continue to attend the hearing for the evidence and submissions of other councils, agencies and community members. The hearing is currently scheduled to conclude in March 2026, when Council will also provide a closing submission.

To view Council’s full written submission online, visit All the background | Moorabool Shire Council.

To access detailed information about the EES and next steps, visit engage.vic.gov.au/Western-Renewables-Link-IAC

To access the daily hearing recordings, visit engage.vic.gov.au/WesternRenewables-Link-IAC/page/Recordings

Timestamps for these recordings can be viewed at moorabool.vic.gov.au/transmissionline

More than 10,000 Victorian apprentices completed their training in 2025 and are now job-ready with in-demand skills, thanks to the state government.

Acting Minister for Skills and TAFE Danny Pearson recently revealed more than 10,000 Victorians earned their trade papers in 2025 – making them qualified and ready to build our growing state.

A trade paper is a certificate awarded to those who successfully complete a recognised apprenticeship in Victoria, along with relevant formal training through a TAFE or registered training organisation.

The government has issued fifty thousand trade papers across 214 different qualifications since the program began in 2019.

Carpenters, electricians and plumbers make up more than half the number of workers to receive their trade papers – ensuring Victoria has the skilled workers needed to deliver homes, projects and services.

The government is supporting apprentices to navigate work, training and personal challenges so they can complete their qualification and obtain their trade paper.

Apprentices and trainees can access free counselling through the Apprentice Employee Assistance Program, which provides confidential short-term support for mental health and personal issues, difficult workplace situations and financial concerns.

Support is also available through the Apprentice Support Officer (ASO) program. ASOs provide in-person support to apprentices both on campus and in the workplace. The ASO program has supported more than 169,100 apprentices since it began.

The Apprentice Helpdesk – which has already taken 1,500 calls since launching in June – is available for apprentices to learn about the full range of support on offer.

The helpdesk is a free phone and online service staffed by specially trained case support officers who provide information, practical guidance and referrals. The helpdesk can be contacted on 1300 311 820.

Macedon Ranges Shire Council has been alerted to reports of sections of nature strip grass dying off locally, consistent with spraying.

This matter is being swiftly investigated to fully determine what has occurred, although it appears there has likely been an issue through council’s street sweeping process, where an attachment is fitted to safely and efficiently spray an approved herbicide in town gutters, to proactively prevent unwanted growth.

A media release said the safety of the public and staff was the our number one priority. “We would like to reassure residents that we are committed to the responsible and limited use of glyphosate-based herbicide, and we are confident that this use poses no risk to people, pets or the environment, even despite this misapplication. It is applied from the back of our street sweepers and the spraying only takes place when conditions are safe to do so (i.e. not on a windy day).

“Our street sweeping program may experience some delays over the Christmas/New Year period while this matter is investigated. Following this, we will put in place additional measures as necessary to prevent it from happening again.

“We apologise to anyone impacted, and we also appreciate that as our Council offices prepare to close over the festive period (from 12:30pm on 24 December 2025, reopening on Monday 5 January 2026), we will be more limited than usual to respond to public queries.

“We ask that for anyone who believes their nature strip may be impacted, they lodge their query online with evidence where possible (i.e. imagery, location details) via our website (mrsc.vic.gov.au/report-it). This will help us to better understand the spread of the impacts and consider next steps.

“Residents can also lodge their query via the Snap Send Solve app, however our website is preferred as it automates our customer reference process, making it more efficient for us to log and respond to queries.”

To report any urgent issues over our closure period, please call 5422 0333 and you will be transferred to our after-hours service.

Newstead Live, Castlemaine Documentary Film Festival and the Wesley Hill Market are some of the community groups to receive funding in the latest round of Mount Alexander Shire Council’s Event Grants program.

The council has awarded 16 groups with funding to deliver events across the shire that foster connection and community.

One of the funded events is CycleMania, a community-driven festival at the Castlemaine Botanical Gardens that celebrates the joy of cycling in all its forms.

Another event is Live in Baringhup, a day of top-notch live music at the historic Baringhup Hall, uniting locals and visitors in a relaxed, family-inclusive atmosphere.

Other events include the Castlemaine Fringe Fantastico Variety Show, Castlemaine Farmers Market, Gather Harcourt and Taradale Mineral Springs Festival.

Mount Alexander Shire Council’s Mayor, Cr Toby Heydon, said that Council is delighted to continue backing community-led events through its grants program.

“It’s always a pleasure to see the creativity and passion in the applications we receive,” said Mayor Heydon.

“This year’s 16 successful events showcase an exciting mix of returning favourites and fresh ideas, each contributing something special to our shire’s vibrant events calendar.

“These events play such an important role in bringing people together. They attract visitors, strengthen local connections, and offer opportunities for residents to try something new and enjoy memorable experiences.

“Congratulations to all the recipients. I can’t wait to see these events unfold across our shire in the year ahead.”

To read the full list of funded events, visit www.mountalexander.vic.gov.au/EventGrants.

The next round of Event Grants will open in February 2026.

Mount Alexander Shire Council and Nalderun Education Aboriginal Corporation (NEAC) have signed a new four-year agreement to continue working together to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the shire.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) sets out how the two organisations will work in partnership to improve health, wellbeing, and opportunities for First Nations communities.

Council’s Mayor, Cr Toby Heydon, said the agreement shows the council’s ongoing commitment to reconciliation.

“We’re proud to continue working with Nalderun. Our renewed MOU builds on more than two decades of collaboration, formalising the mutual support and shared goals of both organisations.

“It outlines clear commitments to work together in delivering culturally-safe programs, services and events that reflect the heritage and ongoing contributions of First Nations people.”

Under the new MOU, Council will provide $12,000 each year to support important programs like The Meeting Place, which offers cultural learning and connection for young people. Council will also continue to provide free use of venues and transport for community programs.

Lisa Knight, Council’s Director Healthy Communities, added: “This agreement ensures that Council and Nalderun will continue to work side-by-side to deliver programs that make a difference. It’s about creating lasting change and ensuring that First Nations perspectives are embedded in everything we do.”

The renewed MOU marks a significant step forward in Council’s reconciliation journey and its vision for a connected, inclusive, and culturally rich Mount Alexander Shire.

For more information contact Amy Carmichael, Council Engagement Coordinator at a.carmichael@mountalexander.vic.gov.au.