The state government is calling for applicants to join the Victorian Disability Advisory Council.

Minister for Disability Lizzie Blandthorn and Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas in recent days called for applicants with lived experience of disability from diverse backgrounds, such as First
Nations people, those from multicultural communities or the LGBTIQA+ community.

Members of the council provide policy and strategic advice to the Minister for Disability to
improve the participation and inclusion of Victorians with disability, ensuring the voices of
people with disability are heard.

A maximum of 14 positions are available, including two positions for First Nations people. The
chairperson and deputy chairperson roles will be filled by people with disability.

Council members will serve for a three-year term that starts on 31 July 2025.

Applications close on Saturday, April 12 with more details to be found online at
boards.vic.gov.au.

Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas: “Giving a voice to Victorians with lived experience of disability is key to understanding how we can improve services and systems for the entire state.”

This story based on a media release from the office of Mary-Anne Thomas MP.

Horsham Crime Investigation Unit detectives are investigating a series of significant copper thefts targeting rail infrastructure in northern Victoria.

Unknown offenders have been cutting lengths of copper wire, up to kilometres at a time, and stealing the product with more than 30 reported incidents occurring between Buangor and Serviceton since February 2024.

The offending has caused significant and costly disruption to rail freight services.

Most concerningly, these activities are extremely dangerous as trespass and interfering with assets on the rail corridor can have significant repercussions for the safety of rail workers, train crews and the offenders themselves.

The offenders are understood to be using 4WD vehicles to access remote areas where the wire has been laid.

Investigators are releasing an image of a vehicle believed to be involved in the offending.

The white 4WD Nissan Patrol was sighted by police responding to reports of a signal outage on a railway line near Gerang Gerung on Sunday, March 2.

Officers attempted to intercept the vehicle, which was seen towing a trailer full of suspected copper wire, but it refused to stop for police and sped away about 4.25am.

Investigations remain ongoing.

Anyone who recognises the vehicle, has CCTV, dashcam footage or any other information that could assist police with their enquiries is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

This story based on a Victoria Police report

The state government is backing LGBTIQA+ organisations with funding to expand support and strengthen services now and into the years ahead.  

Minister for Equality Vicki Ward last week announced the 2024-25 Organisational Development Grants – encouraging LGBTIQA+ communities to apply for a share of $400,000.

Established organisations and those with experience serving LGBTIQA+ communities can apply for up to $40,000, while newer groups can apply for grants of up to $20,000.

The grants are focused on creating equitable, inclusive and accessible services, in order to build safer, stronger and sustainable communities. 

Previous recipients included Many Coloured Sky, which supports LGBTIQA+ refugees and asylum seekers and used funding to implement a comprehensive business plan and volunteer strategy. 

Melbourne Bisexual Network used funding to merge two peak bodies representing Bi+ people to form Bi+ Pride Victoria.

Trans Space previously used funding to establish its organisation as a healthcare charity to better support Victoria’s trans and gender diverse communities.

Our Point 3 Incorporated was funded to support LGBTIQA+ international students with projects such as podcast production and interview training. 

Strengthening the LGBTIQA+ sector is part of the state government’s broader efforts to drive equality in Victoria, aligned with the Pride in our future: Victoria’s LGBTIQA+ strategy 2022-32.

Since 2016, the program has helped more than 110 LGBTIQA+ organisations develop their operations and expertise. Applications close on Monday, April 14. To apply, visit vic.gov.au/lgbtiqa. 

Minister for Equality Vicki Ward: “Equality is not negotiable in Victoria, and throughout a time of increased vilification, our organisations delivering positive change deserve support to not just continue their great work but improve their inclusive services.”

“We know it’s important to get behind these hard working LGBTIQA+ organisations to uplift their communities – and I encourage all eligible groups big and small to apply.”

This story based on a state government media release

Police in recent days have arrested 12 people and seized a commercial quantity of cocaine, during a major operation targeting firearms, drugs, and persons of interest across Greater Shepparton.

Between Monday 10 March and Saturday 15 March, detectives from Shepparton Crime Investigation Unit, Divisional Response Unit and Crime Command’s VIPER Taskforce knocked on the doors of 21 homes during a series of Firearm Prohibition Order (FPO) searches and warrants.

The operation focused on individuals subject to Firearm Prohibition Orders (FPOs), persons of interest, and outstanding warrants.

Under a Firearm Prohibition Order, a person is prohibited from acquiring, possessing, carrying, or using any firearm or firearm-related items such as ammunition.

Throughout the operation, police seized:

• Traffickable quantity of cocaine valued over $80,000

• Approximately $10,000 cash

• Two stolen motorbikes

Those arrested by police include:

• A 38-year-old Shepparton man was charged with allegedly trafficking a commercial quantity of cocaine after approximately 280 grams valued at approximately $70000, was located and seized during of a search warrant. He was bailed to appear at Shepparton Magistrates Court.

• A 43-year-old Tatura man was arrested in relation to six outstanding warrants. Police seized approximately 24 grams of cannabis, 20ml of GHB, and knuckle dusters. He was charged with possess drug of dependence, possess prohibited weapon, going equipped to steal, and possess proceeds of crime. He was bailed to appear before Shepparton Magistrates Court on July 14.

• A 37-year-old Mooroopna man was arrested after police located an allegedly stolen motorbike at his address. He was charged with handle stolen goods and bailed to appear before Shepparton Magistrates Court on July 18.

• On March 13, Viper Taskforce assisted Shepparton Divisional Response Unit with the execution of a search warrant at a property in Shepparton.

Police located and seized approximately 10 grams of cocaine, and $9400 cash. A 36-year-old Mooroopna man was charged with traffick and possess cocaine. He was bailed to appear before Shepparton Magistrates Court on May 19.

Anyone who has information was urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

This story based on a Victoria Police report

Work is officially underway on Australia’s first ever Vietnamese Cultural Centre and Museum, with the first sod turned on the site in Sunshine – the epicentre for Vietnamese culture in Victoria and Australia.

Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ingrid Stitt in recent days attended the project’s official groundbreaking ceremony and announced an additional $2 million in Labor Government funding to support the construction and fit-out of the Vietnamese Cultural Centre and Museum.

Once complete, the Museum will be a destination for Vietnamese Victorians to honour and celebrate their heritage and preserve stories of migration and refugee settlement. 

Backed by an investment of $8.7 million by the state government, it will host exhibitions to honour migrant journeys to freedom and celebrate the significant contributions of the Vietnamese community to the multicultural fabric of Australia, with the museum set to receive more than 280 artefacts.

The three-storey building will also include a resource centre for education, as well as a function centre and café to accommodate community events for up to 450 guests from across Victoria, interstate and abroad.

This milestone comes as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Vietnamese settlement in Australia, marking five decades of contribution, resilience, and cultural heritage.

The state government investment in the project acknowledges the importance of the more than 121,000 people of Vietnamese heritage living in Victoria, with more than 93,000 born in Vietnam – making it the fifth largest overseas born population in Victoria.

The Vietnamese Museum Australia is one of seven cultural museums in the Multicultural Museums Victoria Network, alongside the Nafsika Stamoulis Hellenic Museum, Museum of Chinese Australian History, Jewish Museum of Australia, Islamic Museum of Australia, Museo Italiano and Golden Dragon Museum.

The town of Creswick has seen an influx of visitors eager to explore the stunning local landscape since the opening of the Djuwang Baring mountain bike trails.

To help local businesses maximise this potential, the Hepburn Shire Council is facilitating a free “Gear Up for MTB Success” workshop at the Doug Lindsay Recreation Reserve on Monday March 24 from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm.

This interactive workshop is designed to provide valuable insights into how businesses can attract and cater to the diverse needs of mountain bike enthusiasts.

Attendees will learn how to create compelling packages and experiences for riders and their families or friends, collaborate with other local businesses and develop effective marketing strategies.

Mayor, Cr Don Henderson, said that businesses in Creswick and surrounds have an excellent opportunity to grow by connecting with the mountain biking community.

“This workshop is about providing the tools and strategies to succeed in this unique growing market. I encourage local businesses to take up this opportunity and register for the workshop,” said Cr Don Henderson.

The session will look at upcoming opportunities for leveraging local events and aligning business efforts with broader marketing campaigns for the Djuwang Baring trails, ensuring that Creswick becomes a must-visit mountain biking destination.

The workshop will be facilitated by Karen Oliver, an experienced industry development specialist with a strong track record of working with tourism operators, councils and regions to foster business growth and create memorable visitor experiences.

Local business owners, managers and anyone interested in growing their business in Creswick and surrounds are being encouraged to attend the informative session.

This story based on a Hepburn Shire Council media release

Detectives from the Bendigo Crime Investigation Unit have arrested two people following two alleged assaults in Bendigo’s CBD last month.

The two teenagers were arrested last week after an investigation into an alleged affray involving a group of teenagers on Bull Street on February 9, where three victims were injured in the early hours of the morning.

In the first incident, a 28-year-old Bendigo man was allegedly assaulted by the group, sustaining serious injuries that required hospital treatment.

A second 28-year-old man, also from Bendigo, was allegedly attacked during the same incident. He suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was also taken to hospital.

The group then fled before approaching a 32-year-old Bendigo man at the intersection of Queen and Mitchell streets around 1.45am, where they allegedly assaulted him.

Following an extensive investigation, local detectives have charged two individuals including:

• A 16-year-old boy from Bendigo has been charged with 13 offences, including violent disorder, affray, intentionally causing injury, recklessly causing injury, and unlawful assault. He was bailed to appear at a children’s court at a later date.

• An 18-year-old man from Kangaroo Flat has also been charged with 13 offences, including violent disorder, affray, intentionally causing injury, recklessly causing injury, and unlawful assault. He was bailed to appear at Bendigo Magistrates’ Court on June 6.

The investigation remains ongoing, and police anticipate further arrests.

Anyone who has information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

This story based on a Victoria Police report

The state government has backed a regional tourism experience in southwest Victoria, supporting the Penshurst Volcanoes Discovery Centre to deliver facility upgrades that will help draw more visitors to the region.

Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos last week encouraged visitors to check out the upgraded Volcanoes Discovery Centre – which lies at the foot of Mount Rouse (Collorrer), a dormant volcano.

The upgrades include a revitalised education space, refurbished internal displays, and new outdoor geological interpretation areas and learning spaces.

The upgrades and new facilities will support the centre to provide school groups and visitors with a richer understanding of how volcanoes are formed, their geology, their history in the Greater Hamilton area, and how the region’s First Peoples interacted with volcanoes.

Penshurst is at the centre of the Newer Volcanics Province, the third largest volcanic plain on earth, which stretches over an area of 15,000 square kilometres and contains over 400 small volcanoes and volcanic vents.

The refurbishments at the Penshurst Volcanoes Discovery Centre will help encourage visitors to explore more of a region steeped in geological and cultural significance, including the nearby Budj Bim Cultural Landscape, a UNESCO world-heritage site.

The Labor Government has supported the Penshurst Volcanoes Discovery Centre upgrade with an investment of $290,000 through its Regional Tourism Investment Fund. 

Southern Grampians Shire Council also contributed $40,000 to the project.

Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos: “Penshurst’s landscape is a geological marvel, and the upgrades to the Volcanoes Discovery Centre will help visitors learn more about this incredible patch of southwest Victoria. If you’re into natural history, I encourage you to visit the centre and experience all Penshurst’s charm for yourself.”

“We’re proud to support this project through the Regional Tourism Investment Fund to help draw more visitors to Victoria’s regional destinations and support the jobs and businesses that call them home.” 

Member for Western Victoria Jacinta Ermacora: “This investment is a big win for Penshurst, helping to attract more visitors, support local businesses, and showcase the region’s incredible volcanic and cultural heritage.”

Southern Grampians Shire Council Mayor Dennis Heslin: “We are extremely grateful to have received funding to give a much-needed boost to this very special institution. The Southern Grampians region is filled with ancient natural wonders that surprise and fascinate us. These upgrades will give us a chance to share the knowledge and stories we have with a wider audience.”

Story based on a state government media release

More than 170 people have received offers of help from police and support services during a two-week operation that focused on aggressive begging in Melbourne’s CBD and Carlton last month.

While the primary intention of the operation was to aid rough sleepers and beggars, there was also 26 people arrested by police for offences including outstanding warrants, shop steal, theft, possess prohibited weapon and proceeds of crime.

One person arrested was wanted on 20 outstanding warrants.

Operation Brightside is a joint operation led by Victoria Police with support from the City of Melbourne, The Salvation Army and cohealth aimed at addressing homelessness and begging in the CBD.

The key focus is to understand the root cause of the issue of those experiencing homelessness.

Once this was understood, support agencies such as The Salvation Army and cohealth could provide appropriate assistance and support to these people, Victoria Police said in report issued in recent days.

The operation led to the following results:

• Engaged with 172 people, offering them referrals to relevant support services, with 11 referrals being accepted.

• 22 people moved on for blocking the footpath and were also offered referrals for support.

• 26 people arrested.

• Issued 18 infringements for traffic related offences.

• Cleared 14 outstanding whereabouts.

Victoria Police runs operations such as these to ensure everyone – including regional visitors – are safe in the city, and to ensure footpaths are clear and accessible.

There is a dedicated police presence maintained across the city 24/7, with targeted patrols in key areas conducted every day and night.

If anyone witnesses crime or anti-social behaviour in the city, we urge them to contact Triple Zero (000) for an immediate police response.

Anyone who has information about criminal activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

Melbourne West Local Area Commander, Acting Inspector Paul Topham: “Everyone should feel safe when they are coming into the city, and the amenity of the area often reflects how safe people feel.

“Being homeless is not an offence, and it requires a multi-layered response that is dignified and supportive, rather than just simply police or other agencies issuing a fine.

“This operation sees police working together with council and support services to firstly find out why the person is sleeping rough, before working on ways we can all help them get back on their feet.

“That said, if there is criminal activity occurring, police will have no hesitation in making arrests – as the operation’s results show.

“We have also been focused on ensuring footpaths are clear as this creates accessibility and safety issues, particularly for vision impaired and those with mobility issues.

“We will continue to work closely with our partners to ensure we have a greater understanding of the challenges faced by those who are vulnerable, while also ensuring everyone in the city is safe, and feels safe.”

Story based on a Victoria Police report

The state government says it’s investing more than $7 million over the next three years to help Learn Locals across Victoria provide more education and employment opportunities to all Victorians. 

Learn Local providers are not-for-profit community organisations registered and funded by the Victorian Government. They offer flexibility and a welcoming environment for everyone to learn. 

Minister for Skills and TAFE Gayle Tierney last week visited the Albury Wodonga Volunteer Resource Bureau to celebrate two new grants available to help Learn Locals to more effectively attract learners, improve their digital equipment and capability, and deliver high quality training. 

The Learner and Program Sustainability Grant is delivering $6.6 million over three years to Learn Locals, with the first payments for the 2025 training year already supporting these vital community organisations. 

The $500,000 Technology and Digital Grant Program is helping Learn Locals purchase technology that improves outcomes for learners. Applications for these grants are open now. 

These investments are helping Learn Locals attract new learners, strengthen their curriculum, set up partnerships with local industry and employers and reach learners who can most benefit from the support provided by a Learn Local. 

Albury Wodonga Volunteer Resource Bureau is receiving an additional $9,000 in funding through the Learner and Sustainability Grant and the Training Delivery Support Grant. Students like Pierre, Isabelles, and Susanna are being supported by the Learn Local into employment and further TAFE training.

Wodonga TAFE is also partnering with the Learn Local by providing a dedicated computer lab to boost digital skills for future learners, ensuring they have the foundational skills needed to start a Free TAFE course.

Across Victoria, the TAFE Network works with Learn Locals to create seamless pathways into further education and employment.

Last week nominations for the 2025 Learn Local Awards opened. The awards are an opportunity to celebrate individuals and organisations that are making an impact in adult community education.

More than 30,000 Victorians each year are supported by Learn Locals to overcome barriers to training and access essential skills for life and work, whilst studying close to home in a community setting.

More than 200 Learn Locals operate across Victoria, offering tailored support in a range of courses from numeracy and literacy to digital skills and employability skills. 

Minister for Skills and TAFE Gayle Tierney: ” With more than 30,000 Victorians supported each year, Learn Locals play a vital role in giving every Victorian the opportunity to build skills, gain confidence, and find meaningful employment close to home.” 

“This investment will help Learn Locals like the Albury Wodonga Volunteer Resource Bureau strengthen their programs, reach more learners, and ensure they have the tools and technology to deliver high-quality training.”

Those keen to know more can visit learnlocal.org.au.

This story based on a state government media release

The state government has unveiled the Plan for Victoria, a comprehensive strategic document outlining the State’s long-term vision for how Victoria – including Hepburn Shire – will grow over the next quarter of a century.

The plan introduces a 3,150 housing target for the Hepburn Shire over the next 25 years, a goal which the council says is in line with its own estimates from the Future Hepburn strategy, ensuring that the region is prepared for manageable and responsible growth.

The new framework, which spans up to 2051, is closely aligned with the Hepburn Shire Council’s Future Hepburn rural and township strategies, the council says in a media statement.

Mayor, Cr Don Henderson, says the Plan for Victoria offers a shared vision for sustainable growth, community development, and environmental protection.

“Key to the Plan for Victoria is the emphasis on managing growth through town boundaries and safeguarding valuable farming lands—an approach that resonates strongly with Council’s town planning principles,” Cr Henderson said.

 “This plan brings together our vision for growth and sustainability while respecting our unique environmental and cultural heritage.

“We want to make sure that Hepburn Shire receives the infrastructure and housing solutions we need for the future. 

“It supports the Future Hepburn vision of a strong local economy with access to employment opportunities, and other services.”

The plan introduces a 3,150 housing target for the shire over the next 25 years, a goal in line with the council’s estimates from the Future Hepburn strategy, ensuring that the region is prepared for manageable and responsible growth.

The Plan for Victoria also includes strong support for the integration of Dja Dja Wurrung cultural knowledge into the planning process.

This aims to ensure that traditional knowledge on how to protect and productively use the landscape is incorporated into future planning and development, benefiting both the local community and the environment.

“A critical aspect of the plan for Hepburn Shire is the Government’s commitment to delivering social and affordable homes, through Government’s Short Stay Levy,” Cr Henderson said.

“With Hepburn Shire’s short stay rentals making up 11% of its housing stock, Council is calling on Government to guarantee at least 11% of levy funds is invested in our Shire for social and affordable homes.”

This story based on a Hepburn Shire Council media release

Police are appealing for public assistance to help locate missing teenager Junming who had been living in Ballarat before his disappearance.

The 16-year-old arrived in Australia in November last year and was living in Ballarat East whilst attending school.

The teenager was due to fly to China due to a family emergency.

Junming entered the airport but did not board his flight and was last seen leaving the airport and entering a vehicle 8.30am on February 6.

It’s believed he may be in South Australia.

Police have released an image of Junming (above) in the hope someone recognises him and can provide information regarding his current whereabouts.

Anyone who sights Junming or with information that could assist investigators is urged to contact Ballarat police on 5336 6000.

This story based on a Victoria Police report

Detectives from the Ballarat Divisional Response Unit have reunited a man with his treasured 1956 Chevrolet Sedan, after a public appeal helped track down the stolen vehicle.

The vintage car which held deep sentimental value for the family, was stolen from a property in Smythes Creek on February 27.

Following an appeal for information, members from the local community provided crucial information to detectives, including CCTV footage showing the vehicle being towed by a white Toyota Landcruiser through Lal Lal.

After conducting a thorough investigation, detectives executed a search warrant at a property in Lal Lal. where they discovered a shipping container concealing the stolen Chevrolet.

A search warrant was also executed at a property in Nintingbool where police arrested a 38-year-old Nintingbool man.

Police also seized four dirt bikes which were allegedly stolen. The 38-year-old was charged with theft of a motor vehicle, burglary, handle stolen goods, criminal damage, theft, possess methamphetamine, possess cannabis, possess controlled weapon, and cultivate narcotic plant.

He had been remanded to appear before the Ballarat Magistrates’ Court.

Sergeant Samuel Young – Ballarat Divisional Response Unit: “Today (Friday March 14) police had the pleasure of reuniting the owner with his beloved car, and we can’t thank the community enough for their assistance with this investigation.

“We understand how distressing it is to have something so valuable stolen, especially when it holds deep sentimental value. Our team was determined to reunite this car with its rightful owner, and we are pleased to see it safely returned.

“This case is a great reminder that even the smallest piece of information can make a big difference. We encourage anyone who sees something suspicious to report it, as it could be the key to solving a case.

“Victoria Police remains committed to investigating and disrupting vehicle theft and related crimes. If you’re involved in this kind of offending, know that we will find you and hold you accountable.”

This story based on a Victoria Police report

Talented students of noted local piano teacher, Bronislaw Sozanski will feature in a special musical performance this Sunday.

The Piano for Pleasure concert will feature students Lewis Clark, Hanna Cao, Lilia Chen and Travis Wang playing works at Ballarat’s Anglican Cathedral Synod Hall in Lydiard Street South.

The event takes place from 2pm this Sunday, March 23.

Attendance is $20 for adults with children free.

Words: Eve Lamb

The Lancefield Mechanics Institute is getting set to host a special CWA exhibition next month.

Organisers say “an absolute celebration of creativity” is in store, along with a chance to catch up with friends and discuss favourites over a cuppa and a scone.

The CWA Central Highlands Group Creative Arts Exhibition will bring together CWA members from all over the region for the event taking place over April 12-13.

The Lancefield Mechanics Institute hall will be brimming with a wonderful display of art, craft, preserves and home cooking, organisers say ahead of next month’s exhibition.

“We’re offering home-made lunch or a cuppa and a scone in our cosy cafe area. While you’re visiting, take the chance to stock up on bargain craft supplies at our popular craft de-stash stall, and don’t forget to take home some preserves that have been lovingly made by our members.

“Join us for a weekend filled with creativity, community, and chat. Spread the word and invite your friends and family along for a lovely Autumn day out.”

Event Details:

Dates: April 12th & 13th

Location: Lancefield Mechanics Institute, 4 The Crescent, Lancefield

Time: Sat 12th: 10am – 4pm, Sun 13th: 10am – 3pm.

Awards Ceremony: Sat 12th, 11am

Cost to attend: $5 for adults, kids under 16 free.