Councils Archives - The Local

Draft budget released by Hepburn Shire Council

16-05-2022

Hepburn Shire Council has released its $58.06M draft budget for 2022/2023, which has a total revenue increase of $15.24M or 37 percent on the current budget due to a considerable injection of State and Federal capital grants and stimulus project funding, along with reimbursement of the high costs related to storm recovery.

Storm Recovery Support

15-05-2022

WORKING TOGETHER TO SUPPORT COMMUNITY RECOVERY

12-05-2022

Hepburn Shire Council is calling for community input as it develops its first Arts and Culture Strategy.

Biggins Scott

12-05-2022

Woodend-based health promotion charity Live4Life has secured a $871,163 federal government grant to expand its youth mental health and suicide prevention program interstate.

11-05-2022

Hepburn Shire will soon have three more electric vehicle charging stations thanks to a collaboration between Hepburn Energy (formally Hepburn Wind), Hepburn Shire Council and Chargefox.

Consultation on The Rex sale ‘not a backflip’

11-05-2022

HEPBURN Shire Council says it has not done a backflip on the sale of The Rex building in Vincent Street, Daylesford, despite now saying it will decide whether to proceed with the sale of the building, or not, at its June or July meeting.

The Sew Good Company - Slow Fashion

10-05-2022

Did you know that our Local Law states that only dry and dead vegetation can be burnt? This means you cannot burn green garden waste, non-timber based building materials, rubber, plastic, furnishings, carpet, petroleum, oil products, just to name a few. Please be respectful to your neighbours and advise them if you are planning to burn off.

HSC DRAFT BUDGET

10-05-2022

Council will consider the 2022/2023 Draft Budget at its Special Meeting at 5.30pm on Tuesday 10 May. The meeting will be livestreamed via our Facebook page. Once the draft budget is released it will be available for public review.

10-05-2022

Along with the sale of The Rex building, Council is also seeking community feedback on a range of topics. These include: Asset Plan – Review Council’s plan on the management of its $440 million of assets in the shire. Submissions are due by 5.00pm on Tuesday 10 May.

ChillOut side

PROPOSED SALE OF THE REX

10-05-2022

Have you had your say on the proposed sale of The Rex building in Daylesford? Complete an individual or community group survey about the intended sale of the building. Given the Hepburn Hub (library, staff offices, etc) at The Rex is not proceeding we want to know whether you support the decision to sell The Rex.

Community News from HSC

09-05-2022

I was honoured to speak at the opening of Clunes Booktown Festival last weekend. I stayed on for most of Saturday to enjoy the fabulous program of author-led talks, indulge a little in the local food and entertainment and wander the many book seller stalls in and around the historic main street of Clunes.

Just sayin’…
By Donna Kelly

09-05-2022

GREAT news that the Daylesford Field & Game Club can return to its home at Glenlyon Reserve.

Say on youth in Hepburn Shire

06-05-2022

If you want to have a say on the development and coordination of services, programs, activities, for people aged 12- 25 years, take a look at Hepburn Shire Council’s Youth Development Strategy – known as THE ACE.

Capital works and recovery

03-05-2022

Macedon Ranges Shire Council’s Draft Council Plan outlines key priorities and supports the achievement of the Community Vision. It is reviewed annually and the Year Two draft highlights specific actions Council will undertake in 2022/23. It links to the draft budget for 2022/23, which aims to provide a high level of works and services to the community, while keeping rates as low as possible.

Funding boost announced for youth mental health program

03-05-2022

Macedon Ranges Shire Council is delighted with the announcement by the Federal Coalition Government to fund $871,163 towards the award-winning mental health program Youth Live4Life as part of their National Suicide Prevention and Leadership Support grant programme.

Creswick bike trails

01-05-2022

Cyclists of all ages and abilities will soon be able to hit new mountain bike trails in Creswick.

A Little Puppet set to charm the Macedon Ranges

29-04-2022

Macedon Ranges Shire Council Arts & Culture team have a creative event throughout the month of May aimed at getting people out in the fresh air and appreciating art and performance.

Planning at Creswick

28-04-2022

Hepburn Shire Council is embarking on a ambitious strategic planning program that will span across the Shire.

Month of madness at Kyneton

28-04-2022

Kyneton Town Hall has had a few practice swings, in preparation for its re-opening after two years of closures, but this May it will really come alive, with a ‘Month of Madness’ – a packed program of quality comedy, theatre and music to delight.

Backflip on The Rex?

27-04-2022

Hepburn Shire Council appears to have done a backflip on the sale of The Rex building in Vincent Street.

27-04-2022

Organisations in Hepburn Shire have shared $23,000 under the latest round of the council’s Community Grants Program.

Strategy for kids

16-04-2022

Hepburn Shire Council has developed a draft Early and Middle Years Strategy 2022-2030 which aims to plan and prepare for family growth and the development needs of early years and middle years children.

13-04-2022

Ninety-year-old Lauriston Hall has been upgraded into a more accessible space to be better equipped to host more events - thanks to the state government and Macedon Ranges Shire Council.

No more dropping in on planning department

12-04-2022

HEPBURN Shire Council is actively looking for new planners, CEO Bradley Thomas says. The statement comes after a number of people contacted The Local to say the planning department was either understaffed or had no staff remaining after a number of resignations.

Don’t sell The Rex – group’s call to council

11-04-2022

A PUBLIC meeting held by organisation Rethink The Rex, has resulted in a call for Hepburn Shire Council to “rescind the motion to sell The Rex and release the Crowe Haworth auditor’s report”.

Support for older residents to stay in their homes

09-04-2022

Macedon Ranges Shire Council is holding free information sessions for older people, their families and carers about Commonwealth Home Support Programme services across the shire during April and May.

Upgrade for Lauriston Hall

07-04-2022

The 90-year-old Lauristone Hall in Lauriston has been transformed from a much-loved community hub into a more accessible space to be better equipped to host more events.

New strategy for family growth

06-04-2022

Hepburn Shire Council has developed a draft Early and Middle Years Strategy 2022-2030 which aims to plan and prepare for family growth and the development needs of early years and middle years children.

Help for business

05-04-2022

Macedon Ranges Shire Council is again encouraging local businesses affected by COVID-19 to apply for vouchers of up to $1000.

Help for business

03-04-2022

Hepburn Shire Council has received funding from the Victorian Government that will support a range of businesses to provide works, services and promotion of outdoor activation.

Help for small business in Macedon Ranges

03-04-2022

Following an overwhelming response to the Business Continuity and Recovery Program in 2021, Macedon Ranges Shire Council is again encouraging local businesses affected by COVID-19 to apply for vouchers of up to $1,000.

‘Mortar-fied’: no council cash for old gun

29-03-2022

WORLD War I lasted four years. Paul Dwyer has spent that much time trying unsuccessfully to restore an historic weapon from that conflict that is rusting away in Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens.

Rethink The Rex

29-03-2022

A public meeting to Rethink The Rex will be held at the Daylesford Town Hall on Tuesday, April 5 from 6pm.

Hepburn Shire pulls pin on aged services

21-03-2022

Hepburn Shire Council will stop delivering aged care and disability services to more than 300 residents.

Open space future

27-03-2022

Now is your chance to get involved in shaping the future of open spaces in the Macedon Ranges Shire. Council is calling for expressions of interest to participate in a Community Assembly to guide key decisions about the future of our parks, playgrounds, sporting facilities and conservation areas.

Public meeting to Rethink The Rex

27-03-2022

The sudden decision by Council in November 2021 to sell the Rex, against the recommendation of council officers, prompted the formation of the ‘Rethink the Rex’ community group aimed at halting the sale pending a proper community consultation.

Fire danger period over for Macedon Ranges

23-03-2022

Macedon Ranges Shire Council has been advised by the Country Fire Authority that the Fire Danger Period for the shire will end at 1am on Monday 21 March.

Rallies to Stop AusNet

14-03-2022

TRACTORS rumbled through Melbourne last Tuesday, March 8, as hundreds gathered to protest at Parliament House against 85-metre high towers planned to cross valuable farmland and destroy pristine vistas in Hepburn Shire and beyond.

Principal inducted onto shire honour roll

14-03-2022

INSPIRATIONAL Bullarto Primary School principal Joanne Pegg has been inducted onto Hepburn Shire’s Heather Mutimer Honour Roll.

Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival

12-03-2022

Macedon Ranges Shire Council is committed to fostering respect, understanding and trust between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and all Macedon Ranges communities.

Appointments at Macedon

03-03-2022

Macedon Ranges Shire Council has announced four new appointments within its executive and management teams.

Curtain goes down at Trentham

02-03-2022

THE historic curtain at the Trentham Mechanics Hall has been taken down for refurbishment.

Group urges Hepburn Council to Rethink The Rex

28-02-2022

A GROUP of "concerned citizens" has formed to try to stop the sale of The Rex. Hepburn Shire Council voted in November for the sale, which would mean a loss of up to $6 million in works already done on the former theatre in Vincent Street, Daylesford.

HAVE YOUR SAY ON DRAFT AQUATICS STRATEGY

19-02-2022

Hepburn Shire Council has released its draft Aquatics Strategy for community feedback, with the strategy aiming to provide a 10-year priority plan to guide the future direction for aquatic facilities in the shire, including how best to manage the current aquatics facilities, aspirations for the future, and ways to maximise residents’ participation.

Anger over aged care moves

18-02-2022

HEPBURN Shire Council’s in-principle decision to outsource the delivery of aged and disability services to more than 300 local residents has sent shockwaves through the community, causing anger and concern for many receiving the services, their families and carers.

Macedon Ranges Autumn Festival

06-02-2022

There is so much to see and do in the Macedon Ranges and the region’s Autumn Festival is one of the newest features of the Victorian events calendar.

Listening to tomorrow’s leaders today

04-02-2022

Macedon Ranges Shire Council is looking for young people aged 15-25 who live, work or study in the Macedon Ranges to get involved in the recently revamped “Youth Ambassador Program”.

New Hepburn Shire Council procurement policy

03-02-2022

Hepburn Shire Council has adopted a new Procurement Policy to guide how it spends money with suppliers.

Local tourism business insights

29-01-2022

Do you run a local tourism business and want to learn more about the eight types of customers that visit our region? If so, this is an opportunity not to be missed.

27-01-2022

Why I voted "No" to selling The Rex - Cr Jen Bray. At the November council meeting the 4-3 decision to halt the Hepburn Hub at The Rex project, and sell the building, has sent shockwaves through the Hepburn community.

VACCINATION CLINIC OPENS KIDS APPOINTMENTS

27-01-2022

Central Highlands Rural Health’s vaccination clinic at Kyneton Health has opened its doors to 5-11-year-old children on Tuesday and Friday mornings. Children will be welcomed by our friendly nurses as they make their way through the Enchanted Forest themed vaccination clinic. We are thrilled to have state of the art virtual reality headset on site for children to enjoy however use will be subject to availability. All children will receive a goodie bag and lollipop available when they attend their appointment.

Australia Day protest

26-01-2022

A number of people gathered outside the Daylesford Town Hall on Wednesday, January 26 to protest against Australia Day.

New citizens and community awards

26-01-2022

HEPBURN Shire Council hosted its annual Australia Day Eve to welcome new citizens and announce community award winners.

Your say on council culture

21-01-2022

The Local Government sector and community members are invited to have their say on the Local Government Culture Project Discussion Paper.

Masterplan for Hanging Rock

08-01-2022

The state government has released a draft masterplan for Victoria’s iconic Hanging Rock precinct that will ensure the area’s environmental and cultural assets are protected.

ANOTHER STEP FORWARD FOR CRESWICK TRAILS

04-01-2022

Hepburn Shire Council last night issued a Notice of Decision to grant a planning permit for construction of 60 km of mountain bike trails as part of the Creswick Trails Network.

Council awards Trentham Community Hub contract

04-01-2022

Construction of a community hub at Trentham will start next year, with Hepburn Shire Council last night awarding a contract to Ballarat-based builder S J Weir.

JOIN A LGBTIQA+ ADVISORY COMMITTEE

04-01-2022

Council is establishing an LGBTIQA+ Advisory Committee to provide it with advice on programs and services to improve inclusion throughout the Shire and nominations are now open.

CONGRATULATIONS TO COMMUNITY GRANTS RECIPIENTS

03-01-2022

Hepburn Shire Council will support nine local groups to deliver a variety of projects as part of the latest round of Council’s Community Grants.

Shire Hall returns to former Glory

25-12-2021

The eight month restoration of the historic Kyneton Shire Hall, funded jointly by the Federal Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program and Macedon Ranges Shire Council is set to be completed in December.

Just sayin’…

08-12-2021

I get the feeling everyone is as stunned as I am about Hepburn Shire Council deciding, pretty randomly, to scrap the Hepburn Hub project at The Rex.

09-12-2021

Film-going captured me at the age of seven. The thrill of sharing in The Adventures of Robin Hood starring Errol Flynn, Olivia de Havilland, Claude Rains and Basil Rathbone in 1938 are with me still.

Pools open for summer

05-12-2021

Summer has arrived and Council is pleased to announce the re-opening of the two outdoor pools in Woodend and Lancefield.

08-12-2021

Council’s decision on The Rex is indicative of the following:

08-12-2021

At the council meeting of November 23, 2021 council was presented with an alternate motion to recommending awarding of the contract for the Hepburn Hub at The Rex - Stage 2 Building Works.

07-12-2021

THE topic of the moment is The Rex in Daylesford and the abhorrent waste of ratepayers' money. I do intend to get to that after this quick community safety message.

Hepburn Hub project scrapped, Rex for sale

05-12-2021

THE controversial Hepburn Hub at The Rex project has been scrapped.

New mayor and deputy

04-12-2021

Congratulations to Cr Tim Drylie, who Councillors voted to be the new Mayor for the next 12 months, with Cr Jen Bray as Deputy Mayor (both pictured with Town Crier Philip Greenbank). CEO Bradley Thomas said the election of Cr Tim Drylie as Mayor and Cr Jen Bray as Deputy Mayor is recognition of the great work they do on behalf of their communities.

Daylesford’s Annual ChillOut Festival announces Silver Jubilee Programme

03-12-2021

ChillOut Festival is thrilled to announce their 2022 programme. Join us from the 10-14th March as the Central Highlands of Victoria will loudly and proudly celebrate the 25th Anniversary of ChillOut Festival. A time for us all to bring our community together after being apart for so long. Whether it’s dancing, tennis or bushwalking shoes you need, dust them off and be a part of what we are planning to be the biggest and best festival yet. Bring all the moves that missed their dancefloor debuts and remember what it feels like to be celebrating what makes us proud of who we are, together as one incredible community, where we shine the brightest.

Macedon Ranges Produce named Business of the Year

02-12-2021

Macedon Ranges Produce have been named Business of the Year at the 2021 Josh’s Rainbow Eggs Macedon Ranges Business Excellence Awards, also taking out the Champion of Social, Environmental or Sustainability Principles category.

29-11-2021

CRESWICK Ward's Cr Tim Drylie is the latest mayor of Hepburn Shire. Cr Jen Bray, from Birch Ward, is deputy mayor. Cr Drylie said the opportunity to serve the Hepburn Shire community as mayor was an honour and he was "thrilled and humbled".

Recycle soft plastics at your local transfer station

23-11-2021

Macedon Ranges Shire Council is conducting a six month soft plastics recycling trial with local recycling company, Victorian Regional Recyclers.

New financial counselling support for storm affected residents

20-11-2021

Macedon Ranges Shire Council has welcomed the announcement from Bushfire Recovery Victoria of a Storm and Flood Financial Counselling Program.

GET INVOLVED IN SUSTAINABLE HEPBURN

21-11-2021

Hepburn Shire Council is calling on residents to get involved and help shape Council’s updated commitment towards environmental sustainability. Sustainable Hepburn will be an inclusive, aspirational yet realistic, strategy to guide Council’s environmental sustainability ambitions into the future.

Feedback sought on Nature Strip Landscaping Policy

Macedon Ranges Shire Council is reviewing its Nature Strip Landscaping Policy and seeking your feedback.

Storm affected residents newly eligible for federal payments

Macedon Ranges Shire Council encourages residents impacted by the June storm to apply for newly available federal disaster recovery payments.

Annual electrical line tree pruning program

Macedon Ranges Shire Council is commencing the annual electric line tree pruning and maintenance program in Kyneton and Gisborne.

FREE GREEN WASTE DISPOSAL WITH A SMILE

Residents in Hepburn Shire Council can dispose of green waste for free at transfer stations in Daylesford, Creswick and Trentham throughout November. When you drop off your green waste, one of the friendly faces you may see is attendant Clem Nemeth.

20-11-2021

THE shopfronts of Daylesford and surrounds came alive over the weekend with 120 beautiful floral installations designed to celebrate spring.

SUSTAINABLE HEPBURN

15-11-2021

Sustainable Hepburn is a new strategy that will be Council’s updated commitment to environmental sustainability. Community consultation activities will kick off during November with the formation of a Sustainable Hepburn Community Reference Group.

FREE GREEN WASTE DISPOSAL

15-11-2021

Residents can dispose of green waste for free at our three transfer stations in Creswick, Trentham and Daylesford throughout November

COMMUNITY AWARDS OPEN

14-11-2021

Do you know someone who goes above and beyond for our community?

ACCESS TO COUNCIL FACILITIES

14-11-2021

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MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR

14-11-2021

This month marks a year since the new Council was sworn in.

Stories of the Storm

14-11-2021

SANDY Scheltema's Stories of the Storm series is supported by Hepburn Shire Council, Trentham & Districts Community Bank and the Trentham Lions Club. The series showcases stories of courage, tenacity, bravery and resilience within the community from people who experienced the terrifying storm of June 10, 2021.

Hepburn Shire Council has begun distributing free firewood

13-11-2021

Hepburn Shire Council has begun distributing free firewood

The 2021 Macedon Ranges Youth Award winners have been announced.

12-11-2021

They are Willpower – Lara Vicente, Nicely played – Hugo Lobb, Good deeds – Siena Payne, Skilling it – Gisborne Family Dental trainee dental nurses: Melanie Horvath, Lorissa Koleceg and Abbey Raynor, Well aware – Molly Consiglio and Pure imagination – Mount Players Youth Theatre Leadership Group. The awards are available to watch on Macedon Ranges Youth Facebook and council’s website at mrsc.vic.gov.au/youth

Transport needs feedback wanted

04-11-2021

Macedon Ranges Shire Council is inviting community feedback about transport needs when travelling around the township of Woodend.

Council supports UN Treaty on prohibition of nuclear weapons

25-10-2021

Macedon Ranges Shire Council has joined the call for the Australian Government to sign and ratify the UN Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons.

Business award finalists

25-10-2021

Josh’s Rainbow Eggs Macedon Ranges Business Excellence Awards 2021 finalists have been announced.

2021 Youth Awards Winners announced

25-10-2021

Macedon Ranges 2021 Youth Award winners have been announced. The ceremony was presented online on 28 October. This year received a total of 33 nominations across our six award categories.

25-10-2021

Just briefly

11-10-2021

Macedon Ranges Shire Council is continuing community recovery sessions to help local residents and landholders directly affected by storm damage.

Storm help ending

11-10-2021

Macedon Ranges Shire Council encourages residents who were impacted by the June storm, and whose property is eligible for the Bushfire Recovery Victoria (BRV) Residential Storm and Flood Clean-up, to make sure they register by 31 October.

11-10-2021

Macedon Ranges community is being called to action to speak up against sexist and abusive behaviours. Research demonstrates that being an active bystander can discourage perpetrators of sexist and abusive behaviour and at the same time supports the victim.

11-10-2021

Eight of the state government's promised mental health pop-up clinics have opened with one for the Central Highland still to appear.

New sporting facilities

11-10-2021

THE Hepburn Burras Football and Netball Club and Hepburn Cricket Club now have more room to grow, with the completion of a new, female-friendly pavilion at the Laurie Sullivan Reserve.

Affordable housing snub

11-10-2021

HEPBURN Shire has been left off the preference list for the state government's four-year $5.3 billion Big Housing Build which calls on developers and landowners in regional Victoria to put forward any developments or vacant land that could be turned into social or affordable housing.

Stories of the Storm

11-10-2021

SANDY Scheltema's Stories of the Storm series is supported by Hepburn Shire Council, Trentham & Districts Community Bank and the Trentham Lions Club. The series aims to showcase stories of courage, tenacity, bravery and resilience within the community from people who experienced the terrifying storm of June 10, 2021.

WORK is under way on the next Central Highlands Water Urban Water Strategy.

Funding for Talbot

NEW outdoor exercise equipment has been installed at a park in Talbot, thanks to funding from the state government. Minister for Regional Development Mary-Anne Thomas opened the Activating Talbot project last week. It was given a $150,000 investment from the Healthy Heart of Victoria initiative.

Supporting events for young Victorians

The Victorian Government is providing a significant funding boost for youth programs, offering more opportunities for young people to reconnect with their community as pandemic restrictions ease.

New female-friendly pavilion at Hepburn

The Hepburn Burras Football and Netball Club and Hepburn Cricket Club now have more room to grow, with the completion of their new, female-friendly pavilion at Laurie Sullivan Reserve.

Have your say on dogs and cats in the Macedon Ranges

Macedon Ranges Shire Council is calling on residents with and without pets to help shape its new Domestic Animal Management Plan.

Free Xmas workshop for local retailers

Macedon Ranges Shire Council is encouraging local retailers to sign up for a free visual merchandising workshop during October.

Prepare for summer with safe burn-offs

Macedon Ranges Shire Council, in consultation with local CFA brigades, is advising residents to begin clearing their property and burn off any debris in October ahead of the summer fire season.

Upgrading public care aged care facilities in Creswick

The Victorian Government is upgrading public sector residential aged care services in Western Victoria, creating new jobs and ensuring hundreds of older Victorians continue to receive the care and comfort they deserve.

Business recovery support for agriculture industry

The Victorian Government is fast-tracking the road to recovery for agriculture and food supply chain businesses in rural and regional Victoria.

Community grants open for Hepburn Shire

With COVID restrictions easing, this is an opportunity for community groups to apply for Round 2 of Community Grants.

Creswick trails update

The planning work is continuing on the Creswick Trails Network, a project which will see delivery of 60km of mountain bike paths and a trailhead at Creswick, with council expecting to begin works next year.

Proposed renaming of Jim Crow Creek

Hepburn Shire Council is working with project partners, Mount Alexander Shire Council, North Central Catchment Management Authority and Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation trading as DJAARA, on the proposed renaming of Jim Crow Creek to Larni Barramal Yaluk.

Celebrating Macedon Ranges Seniors

The Victorian Seniors Festival Reimagined is back in 2021 and to celebrate, Macedon Ranges Shire Council will deliver 'celebration boxes' to 30 older residents who have made significant contributions to the Macedon Ranges community. Council’s Corporate and Community acting director Gina Lyons said this year’s festival theme of ‘keep’n on’ recognised the resilience of older people and the many different ways they contribute to our community.

BlazeAid: Ready to help but hit by red tape

WHEN the Black Saturday Fires ripped through Kevin and Rhonda Butler’s farm at East Kilmore in 2009, their immediate concern was the safety of their sheep.

Pothole causing costly chaos but no compo

16-08-2021

A MAJOR pothole on the Ballan-Daylesford Road near Victoria Park in Daylesford has caused thousands of dollars in damage to residents' and visitors' vehicles.

Housing policy but no quick fix on cards

16-08-2021

HEPBURN Shire Council has included funding for a strategic plan into an affordable housing policy in its June budget but there will be no quick fix.

Communities rally together after the storm

19-06-2021

THE great storm of June 9/10 will go down in history as one of the most devastating events in the Central Highlands. Thousands of trees came down, crashing onto homes, cars, sheds, fences and powerlines. More continue to fall as people deal with the aftermath and the clean-up.

Storm damage and relief in sight for Trentham

10-06-2021

Just a few photos of some of the damage around the region

Cinema frustration

07-06-2021

THE Daylesford Cinema Committee is "frustrated, bitterly disappointed and gobsmacked" that plans for the Hepburn Hub at The Rex are being revisited by Hepburn Shire Council, with the project now being workshopped by councillors.

Hepburn Hub at The Rex project in doubt

24-05-2021

The current Hepburn Hub at The Rex project may be cancelled.

Concern over transmission lines

15-05-2021

HEPBURN Shire Council says it continues to advocate on behalf of community groups concerned about the construction of 190km of overhead transmission lines, proposed as part of the Western Victoria Transmission Network Project.

Corruption, intrigue and damn delays and danger

Exotic fauna or a pesky pest? Still no idea!

15-03-2021

BACK in the 1880s various species of deer were introduced to Australia as game animals and their descendants remain in forests across Australia.

Kyneton frontline workers get COVID jab

15-03-2021

FRONTLINE workers at Central Highlands Rural Health's Kyneton campus received the Pfizer vaccine against COVID-19 last week.

Your say on the Malmsbury Botanic Gardens

08-03-2021

THE Friends of the Malmsbury Botanic Gardens committee is encouraging the local community to contribute comments to the draft Master Plan for the Malmsbury Botanic Gardens.

New category mooted for Wombat Forest

01-03-2021

THE investigation into public land in the state’s Central West region was commissioned by the Victorian Government in 2017.

Hepburn Shire’s housing crisis in focus

01-03-2021

A GROUP of Hepburn Shire residents is determined to spotlight the issues of the housing crisis in the shire.

Beating the odds with incredible will power

25-01-2021

TWENTY-three-year-old Michael Smith is nothing short of inspirational. The Macedon Ranges resident has overcome the odds to become an inspirational role model for others and to prove that anything is possible even when you are paralysed on one side and unable to enjoy all the things able-bodied people do.

Why not everyone’s a fan of a solar farm

18-01-2021

IT’S hard to find anyone today who is not in agreement about the need to find alternative replacements to fossil fuels. A recent poll by the Lowy Institute found 84 per cent of Australians believe that governments should increase investment in this area.

One step forward… the Hepburn Hub

21-12-2020

THERE is no doubt, the Hepburn Hub at The Rex in Vincent Street, Daylesford has been an absolute disaster from the outset.

Pandemic has brought people back to reality: Don

21-12-2020

CR DON Henderson asks to meet me at Caleembeen Park. He proudly tells me he was recently successful in achieving funding after lobbying for 12 years for upgrades at the popular swimming spot, including making it more accessible for those with disabilities.

Tour the Daylesford Rex

18-12-2020

Cr Juliet Simpson reviving a family tradition

14-12-2020

THE new councillor for Holcombe Ward is Juliet Simpson, and her connections to the area go back to the late 19th century. Her great-great grandfather, William Stanbridge, settled in the district before the gold rush four generations ago and became a sheep farmer.

Volunteering role leads to Clunes councillor move

07-12-2020

COUNCILLOR Tessa Halliday’s infectious smile lights up her face as many locals driving past slow down to wave and chat.

COVID detected in wastewater in Daylesford

03-12-2020

Breaking news.

Vision for sustainable future for Hepburn Shire

30-11-2020

Cr Tim Drylie arrives for his photo shoot in an electric car, which he is using to run test drives as part of the Hepburn Wind EV Bulk Buy. He enthusiastically tells me how he’ll plug it in to the power point when he gets home to recharge it. One of two new councillors for Creswick Ward, he has a vision for a sustainable future for the shire.

Mayor back at Macedon Ranges

30-11-2020

WEST Ward Cr Jennifer Anderson, inset below, has been elected for a one-year mayoral term with Macedon Ranges Shire Council. It is the fourth time Cr Anderson will serve as mayor, having previously been elected in 2014/15, 2016/17 and 2017/18.

New mayor for Hepburn Shire

30-11-2020

HEPBURN Shire Council has elected Cr Lesley Hewitt (Birch Ward) and Cr Brian Hood (Coliban Ward) as Mayor and Deputy Mayor.

Council to provide for the needs of community

23-11-2020

JEN Bray is one of the two new councillors for Birch Ward and is well known in the Hepburn Shire for her extensive work on community issues. Her commitment to projects such as the Daylesford Skate Park, festivals, youth, and improving the schools, led to many people encouraging her to run as councillor in the recent elections.

Communication, better performance, Trentham

16-11-2020

With six of the seven councillors recently elected to the Hepburn Shire, being new to the game, a sense of optimism and hope exists for more positive interactions between community and council. This weekly series by Sandy Scheltema will explore the new councillors' hopes and wishes for the shire.

Melbourne returns

14-11-2020

With the ring of steel down, Melburnians were keen to get back to the regions including the Central Highlands of Victoria.

Macedon Ranges Shire: The tribe has spoken

09-11-2020

THERE are six new faces in Macedon Ranges Shire Council with just three councillors returned including West Ward’s former mayor Janet Pearce and Jennifer Anderson, and East Ward’s Bill West.

Hepburn Shire Council: The tribe has spoken

09-11-2020

CRESWICK Ward's Don Henderson is the only former Hepburn Shire Council councillor to remain standing after the October 2020 election. And four of the new councillors are candidates supported by lobby group Community Voice after agreeing to align with the group's charter.

Hepburn Shire ready for Melburnians’ return

02-11-2020

CHANGES to parking and pedestrian access in Vincent Street, Daylesford will start this Friday with Melbourne visitors ready to return after the removal of the “ring of steel” on Sunday, November 8.

#Geesegate revealed

28-09-2020

THE chase to remove the geese from Lake Daylesford started with an email query from Birch Ward councillor Fiona Robson on January 23, 2019, Freedom of Information documents show.

Candidates put up their hands

28-09-2020

MORE than 2000 candidates have nominated for 622 council vacancies in 298 separate elections around Victoria next month.

Social enterprise cafe dropped

21-09-2020

THE total project of The Rex's Hepburn Hub has hit more than $13 million after a shortfall comprised of $221,040 to ensure the building is watertight and another $518,960 "to fund all the works required to complete the project".

More outdoor dining

21-09-2020

HEPBURN Shire Council is backing its hospitality businesses to adapt to the requirement for more outdoor dining, in areas like Vincent Street, Daylesford (pictured above on Saturday), now COVID-19 restrictions are easing.

Working towards a new COVID normal

14-09-2020

REGIONAL Victoria was set to open “imminently”, Daylesford Macedon Tourism CEO Steve Wroe has told The Local.

Village or suburb? The great real estate debate

07-09-2020

THE much-anticipated after-COVID boom in country living is being seen as both an economic boon and a potential spoiling of the rural joys of places such as Daylesford.

Round two: People v. council over load of rubbish

31-08-2020

FEAR of being sued is a central reason behind the Hepburn Shire Council introducing a 500-metre zone around its old tip in Ajax Road.

Trentham community hub pushes ahead

24-08-2020

AN 1890s painted wall-hanging capturing a sardonic depiction of the Australian coat of arms will be incorporated into Trentham’s new community hub in the town’s revamped Mechanics Institute building.

New grassroots movement launched

24-08-2020

A NON-political grassroots movement, Community Voice, has been launched in Hepburn Shire and already has 643 members on Facebook.

Loss of land use rights concerns residents

24-08-2020

A GROUP of residents are concerned that a Hepburn Shire planning scheme amendment will remove their rights in terms of land use and development.

10-08-2020

VICTORIAN Planning Minister Richard Wynne said an Environment Effects Statement would be required for the Western Victoria Transmission Network Project which aims to establish 200km of new high-voltage transmission lines across Western Victoria to deliver more renewable energy into the state’s electricity grid.

Network protesters urged to use their voice

03-08-2020

RESIDENTS protesting the proposed Western Victorian Transmission Network have been urged to voice their concerns directly to the State Planning Minister and put pressure on the Victorian Government to insist on an Environmental Effects Statement.

29-06-2020

HEPBURN Shire Council is extremely concerned about the proposed Western Victoria Transmission Network Project

Adjustment to rates valuations available

29-06-2020

HOME owners in Hepburn Shire receive their first rates notice for the 20/21 financial year in August.

Just can’t get no satisfaction…

22-06-2020

HEPBURN Shire Council has recorded its worst ever annual Local Government Community Satisfaction Survey.

From the Mayor: Cr Licia Kokocinski

22-06-2020

WE TAKE on board and acknowledge what the community is saying to us about our performance and direction of council.

Services opened up

08-06-2020

HEPBURN Shire council has opened up a range of services to the community.

08-06-2020

HEPBURN Shire Council has been successful in attracting $1.6 million from the Working for Victoria Fund to employ an additional 33 staff.

The Great Divide: residents v. council on planning

01-06-2020

COMMUNITY satisfaction with the Hepburn Shire Council has seldom been high.

Testing under way

11-05-2020

CORONAVIRUS testing is ramping up across the Macedon Ranges and Hepburn shires, with testing now available at Kyneton District Health.

Funding for reserve

04-05-2020

MOUNT Macedon’s iconic Memorial Cross Reserve is being enhanced with $50,000 funding from the Victorian Government.

COVID-19: The latest local news

23-03-2020

Hepburn and Macedon Ranges councils close services.

Councillor Corner – Holcombe Ward

24-02-2020

What a week it was.

New price tag for Rex

23-02-2020

THE Rex's budget has blown out to $12.735 million - with an opening date of April 2021.

Council to water bosses: Please talk to the people

10-02-2020

WITH much of its fortune built on mineral water, the Central Highlands has entered a phase where some locals are pitted against commercial exploitation of this water.

Council youth grants

27-01-2020

FEEL like ditching the homework, some time out from the olds, a break from the siblings?

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