The Local

Mayor and deputy mayor elected for Macedon Ranges

29-11-2024

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council has elected its new mayor and deputy mayor.

Council scoops $92,949 circular economy grant

24-11-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council has received a $92,949 Circular Economy Organics Council Fund grant from the state government.

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Artists of the Central Highlands

24-11-2024

The large-scale sculptures that Jannie Alday make are sophisticated works of beauty as much as they are fully functional one-offs, designed to appeal to the connoisseur. Middle-eastern architecture is among the influences that ignited this talented creative’s passion for simple elegant form and fluidity of line. Alday deploys traditional fabrication methods, welding and rendering, alongside modern technology to make sculptures that are sensual, tactile and alluring. Right now she is preparing to celebrate the launch of her new Newlyn studio.

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Road resealing works start for Hepburn shire

20-11-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council last week started its bituminous road reseal season by stabilising patching on selected roads.

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Councillors elect announced for Mount Alexander

19-11-2024

The Victorian Electoral Commission has formally announced the results of the local council election for the Mount Alexander Shire Council.

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Council welcomes new Director Assets and Operations

17-11-2024

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council has announced Dominic Testoni as its incoming Director Assets and Operations from early next year following a competitive recruitment process.

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New councillors sworn in for Macedon Ranges

16-11-2024

The Macedon Ranges council election results have been announced with nine councillors across the three wards sworn in earlier this week after the Victorian Electoral Commission declared the results on Thursday, November 7.

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Low-cost cat desexing for eligible Macedon Ranges felines

16-11-2024

Low-income earners or those experiencing hardship are encouraged to take advantage of a low-cost cat desexing day hosted in Romsey in late November.

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New Hepburn Shire councillors sworn in

14-11-2024

Hepburn Shire Council has formally welcomed its new councillors as they were sworn in earlier this afternoon.

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Hepburn braces for fire danger period

12-11-2024

Preparation is under way in the Hepburn Shire for the upcoming fire season and Fire Danger Period (FDP).

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Hepburn shire results…

07-11-2024

Results in the local government election for Hepburn Shire Council have been provisionally announced this afternoon.

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Counting continues in Hepburn council election…

06-11-2024

Counting continues in the Hepburn Shire local government election.

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Chance to help shape Kyneton’s future – extended

05-11-2024

The Kyneton community are getting an extended opportunity to have their say on a strategy establishing a future vision for the town’s main commercial areas.

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Time to clean up: seasonal fire safety works begin in Macedon

30-10-2024

Annual fire prevention activities in areas managed by the Macedon Ranges Shire Council are ramping up in coming weeks, aiming to keep grass low and trees a safe distance away from powerlines.

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Free green waste disposal November

29-10-2024

Hepburn Shire residents and property owners can dispose of green waste for free at transfer stations in Daylesford, Creswick and Trentham during November.

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Voting closes soon for Hepburn Shire council election

19-10-2024

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Hepburn-Shire-map.png The Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) is reminding voters in Hepburn Shire Council that they have until 6 pm on Friday 25 October to vote in the Hepburn Shire Council election.

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Ballot packs should have arrived in Hepburn: VEC

15-10-2024

Voters enrolled in Hepburn Shire Council should have received their ballot packs to vote in this month's local government election - or should check the mail, the Victorian Electoral Commission says.

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Walk out for final Hepburn Shire meeting

10-10-2024

The final meeting of the Hepburn Shire Council for 2024 went awry as three councillors left before a vote could be held on the final agenda item, a confidential planning matter.

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Councillor walk-out prevents planning decision

06-10-2024

Three local councillors walked out of the regular Hepburn Council meeting on September 16, effectively preventing a decision being made on a confidential planning matter, just prior to the council entering caretaker mode.

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VEC retires 16 local council election candidates

05-10-2024

Sixteen local council election candidates across the state have been retired after being found ineligible to nominate.

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Glenlyon pavilion future in limbo

01-10-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council has resolved to pause the Glenlyon Recreation Reserve Masterplan project that addresses the location of the pavilion at the reserve.

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Endeavour group to appeal Dan Murphy’s Daylesford decision

27-09-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council has expressed its disappointment by the Endeavour Group (Dan Murphy’s) decision to appeal the Victorian Liquor Commission ruling to refuse a licence to operate in Daylesford.

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Council candidates put their hands up

26-09-2024

With the close of nominations and ballot draws for this year’s local council elections, 2231 candidates nominated for 646 council vacancies in 466 separate electorates.

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Sebastopol’s community hub tender awarded

23-09-2024

A new community hub for the Ballarat suburb of Sebastopol is a step closer after the awarding of the construction tender to A W Nicholson Pty Ltd.

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12 standing for Hepburn’s seven councillor vacancies

23-09-2024

A total 12 candidates have nominated in Hepburn Shire for next month's local government council elections.

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Future taking shape for Daylesford Town Hall

22-09-2024

The Daylesford Community Facilities project team has been given the green light to develop designs to locate the library and community multipurpose facilities at the Daylesford Town Hall site, ahead of proposed community engagement.

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Ballarat grants, partnerships supported 91 groups

21-09-2024

A total 91 community groups and organisations received a combined $1,865,500.84 from the the City of Ballarat’s partnerships and grants program over the last financial year.

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Ballarat adopts new circular economy strategy

20-09-2024

The City of Ballarat has taken a step closer towards becoming a circular economy.

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Taking care of business: survey report and plan for Hepburn

20-09-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council has reviewed the findings from its Business Survey Report and created an Implementation Plan to support the feedback it received.

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Ballarat adopts new footpath strategy

20-09-2024

The City of Ballarat has adopted a new Footpath Construction Strategy, a key document which will prioritise and fund where new footpaths are built in the regional city into the future.

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Organics service getting results for Hepburn

20-09-2024

The first five months of a food and garden organics service for Hepburn Shire are proving successful, the council is reporting.

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Celebration, namings ahead for Creswick trails

19-09-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council has announced that it expects Djuwang Baring (Creswick Trails) to be completed by the end of this year.

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Animal registration door knocks ahead for Hepburn

17-09-2024

In the coming weeks community safety officers will be conducting animal registration door knocks in the Hepburn Shire.

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Just sayin’…

16-09-2024

So the Local Government Inspectorate will not release any report into its five-year investigation of Hepburn Shire Council and The Rex Theatre development.

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Important steps for council candidates

13-09-2024

Candidates ready to stand in the upcoming Hepburn Shire Council election are being urged to use the Victorian Electoral Commission’s newly refreshed Candidate Helper to get their applications ready for submission as nominations opened this Monday, September 9.

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Township structure plans adopted

12-09-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council has unanimously adopted Township Structure Plans for Clunes, Creswick, Daylesford and Hepburn Springs, Glenlyon, and Trentham, and also a Rural Hepburn Strategy at a Special Council Meeting held last week.

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Town hall feasibility report goes before final council meeting

12-09-2024

A report examining the feasibility of housing Daylesford's public library and community multipurpose facilities in the town's historic Town Hall will go before councillors at this month's Hepburn Shire Council meeting.

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Council to call for 10 percent rate cap variation

12-09-2024

As it grapples to gain financial sustainability, the Hepburn Shire Council has decided to apply to the Essential Services Commission for a 10 percent rate cap variation, including the applicable rate cap for the 2025/26 financial year.

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Nothing to see here, no report from LGI

12-09-2024

The Local Government Inspectorate will not take any further action into the investigation of Hepburn Shire Council and The Rex Theatre development - and its report will never be released.

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Combatting vaping in Ballarat and beyond

11-09-2024

The City of Ballarat is partnering with several local organisations, schools and sporting clubs to implement a program designed to empower young people to say ‘no’ to vaping.

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Ballarat launches waste and recycling app

10-09-2024

The City of Ballarat has launched a Ballarat Waste app to put local waste and recycling information right at residents' fingertips.

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Big spend to boost gallery’s reputation

10-09-2024

A significant project that's expected to enhance the Art Gallery of Ballarat’s ability to attract the best exhibitions and loans from around the world has started.

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EV drivers linger longer at Hepburn

10-09-2024

The Hepburn Springs EV charger is so far proving to be the most popular charger in the Hepburn shire, at least for the last financial year.

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No Rex report, Inspectorate announces

08-09-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council has been notified that the Local Government Inspectorate will not be releasing a report on the Hepburn Hub at The Rex project.

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Bark up with dog park proposals: MP for Macedon

07-09-2024

Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas is encouraging local councils to put forward new ideas for dog parks or existing dog parks that need an upgrade as part of Round 2 of the New and Upgraded Dog Parks program.

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Macedon Ranges lodges Plan for Victoria submission

06-09-2024

The Macedon Ranges status as a declared distinctive area and landscape is among key aspects contained in the shire's submission to the state government's Plan for Victoria.

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Rescind motion leaves gambling harm minimisation policy in limbo

05-09-2024

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council's Gambling Harm Minimisation Policy is in limbo after a notion of rescission was lodged at its August meeting held last week.

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Enviro, climate and Aus Day grants open

05-09-2024

Two returning Macedon Ranges Shire Council grant programs – and a new climate action-focused grant program – have opened with eligible community groups invited to apply throughout September.

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Tender out to tackle flood risk at Ballarat’s Gong Reservoir

02-09-2024

The City of Ballarat has advertised a tender for the design and construction of the Gong Reservoir wall in the Buninyong Botanic Gardens.

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The Rex – No Report

02-09-2024

The Local Government Inspectorate has issued a media release about the Hepburn Shire Council and The Rex Theatre Development.

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Hepburn Shire Council joins anti-vaping campaign

31-08-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council has joined a new $2m initiative to empower young people to say no to vaping.

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Free local sessions to up-skill scam spotting, tech smarts

29-08-2024

Funding from Telstra's Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal is enabling the Hepburn Shire Council to host ongoing free sessions for local residents to learn how to make better use of their devices, stay safe online and improve their tech knowledge.

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Chance to help shape cycling, walking links in and around Ballarat

28-08-2024

The City of Ballarat is inviting public input and suggestions on how best to improve walking and cycling corridors across Ballarat and linking to surrounding areas, including Creswick.

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Rebates provide added incentive for Ballarat residents to compost

27-08-2024

The City of Ballarat has joined forces with Compost Revolution to provide residents with rebates delivering up to 40 per cent off the retail price of compost bins and worm farm products.

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New reconciliation action plan in series for Hepburn Shire

26-08-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council has adopted a new Reconciliation Action Plan at its meeting last Tuesday evening.

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Ballarat makes move on population growth predictions

25-08-2024

The City of Ballarat says it's taken an important step toward helping accommodate more than 55,000 new residents that are forecast to be living in the regional city in coming years.

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Council launches free business and community directory

24-08-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council has launched a free online business and community directory showcasing a wide range of services, goods and attractions available within its boundaries.

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Hepburn Shire achieves big reduction in greenhouse gas emissions

22-08-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council has achieved a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions over the last financial year.

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Tree planting, elm beetle program starts for Macedon Ranges

22-08-2024

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council says it will soon begin its annual street tree planting and elm leaf beetle treatment programs, to improve and protect the natural environment.

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Hepburn Shire hands out $80,111 in grants for landcare, biodiversity

21-08-2024

The township of Trentham hosted a celebration late last week for recipients of grants aimed at improving biodiversity and environmental health throughout the Hepburn Shire.

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Save on heating bill, chill in the library: council

20-08-2024

Macedon Ranges residents are being encouraged to take advantage of the shire’s four libraries as free ‘warm spaces’ and enjoy an abundance of literature and free activities during the colder months.

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Input invited for Woodend Racecourse Reserve

21-08-2024

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council says it's taking the next step in developing a Master Plan to guide the future of Woodend Racecourse Reserve, with more detailed proposals developed for community consultation.

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Medical transport education sessions

20-08-2024

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council - in partnership with local business ‘Lily’s Travels’ - is facilitating information sessions to support older people in confidently navigating transport to medical appointments, using public transport.

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Naming Lancefield’s planned kinder proves child’s play

18-08-2024

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council has announced a proposed name for Lancefield’s new in-development kindergarten and Maternal and Child Health service, chosen with input from current kinder kids.

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Time to nominate local women who make the world a better place

17-08-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council is inviting nominations to honour local women who go above and beyond to enrich life in their community, in the lead up to the next International Women's Day.

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Dan Murphy’s Daylesford licence refused in ‘landmark’ decision

14-08-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council has today welcomed a Victorian Liquor Commission decision to refuse Dan Murphy’s a licence to operate in Daylesford.

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Tackling the flood risk in Ballarat

11-08-2024

The City of Ballarat is assessing community feedback gathered during the recent flood modelling mapping consultation to help complete the final report.

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Quick response grants open for groups in Hepburn shire

11-08-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council's Quick Response Grants program has opened for applications from local community groups and organisations.

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MAV hosts stand for council session

10-08-2024

As Hepburn Shire residents prepare to vote for a wardless council this October, the Municipal Association of Victoria is preparing to deliver several Stand for Council information sessions for those thinking of standing.

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Chance to shape equestrian facilities in Macedon Ranges

09-08-2024

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council is inviting community feedback to help develop a new community equestrian facilities plan.

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New CEO for Golden Plains shire

08-08-2024

Macedon Ranges Shire Council Director Assets and Operations Shane Walden will depart the organisation in the coming weeks to take up the role of Chief Executive Officer at Golden Plains Shire Council.

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Gisborne plan protects landscape from outward growth

08-08-2024

The Macedon Shire Council has rubber-stamped a new plan to guide Gisborne’s development until 2050.

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Partial opening of Creswick mountain bike trails

07-08-2024

In a move that's pleased plenty of keen mountain bikers, the Hepburn Shire Council has opened 32 kilometres of Creswick's new mountain bike trails network (Djuwang Baring) - five months ahead of schedule.

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Ballarat adopts action plan for social and affordable housing

05-08-2024

The City of Ballarat has endorsed its first Social and Affordable Housing Action Plan.

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New direction endorsed for Ballarat airport

05-08-2024

The Ballarat City Council has endorsed a new strategic direction for the regional city's airport.

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Hard rubbish collection coming up for Clunes

05-08-2024

Clunes residents are being encouraged to start thinking about what items they may like to discard - or instead donate to their nearest tip shop - ahead of the town's annual hard rubbish collection.

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Artists of the Central Highlands

02-08-2024

Woodend photographic artist Deborah Mullins draws plenty of inspiration from the landscape, including frequent trips to the Outback and also from her own 1.6-hectare garden on the stunning 16-hectare Hesket Farm property where she and her husband Tom reside. Deborah’s work has been displayed in many galleries in Melbourne and the Central Victorian region. Some of her latest work will be part of Little Gallery’s winter fundraising show launching in Trentham this-evening Friday, August 2.

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Ballarat launches soft plastics recycling pilot

26-07-2024

en thousand households across the Ballarat municipality will now be able to recycle their ‘scrunchable’ soft plastics as part of a new 12-month kerbside collection pilot program.

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Daylesford Top Tourism Town

26-07-2024

Daylesford has been named the best Small Tourism Town for 2024 in the TAC Victorian Top Tourism Town awards.

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New Romsey resale shop helps locals recycle

26-07-2024

Macedon Ranges residents now have another option for recycling their usable goods or picking up a bargain, following the opening of a new resale shop at the Romsey Resource Recovery Facility.

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Soft plastics recycling pilot expands in local shire

26-07-2024

Macedon Ranges residents are now being encouraged to join an expanded shire-wide kerbside soft plastics recycling pilot, following an encouraging earlier trial in Romsey.

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Hepburn shire’s Rainbow Action Plan first

25-07-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council has adopted its inaugural Rainbow Action Plan for LGBTIQA+ inclusion.

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Council takes a lead on off-leash, dog-free zones

25-07-2024

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council is inviting feedback on its designated dog off-leash and prohibited areas to help improve amenity for both pet owners and non-pet owners.

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Food and organics bins proving handy for Hepburn households

25-07-2024

Hepburn shire residents have helped divert an impressive 275 tonnes of composable material from landfill in the first three months since the shire's new food and garden organics household bins started being collected.

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New EV charger for Mechanics Trentham

24-07-2024

Trentham now has a new EV charger powered by 100% local renewable energy.

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Hepburn shire councillor resigns

24-07-2024

Hepburn Shire Councillor Juliet Simpson has tendered her resignation, effective as of this Monday July 22.

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$997,000 accessibility splash for Ballarat aquatic and lifestyle centre

24-07-2024

The Ballarat Aquatic and Lifestyle Centre is about to become more accessible and inclusive thanks to a joint project between the state government and City of Ballarat.

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New citizens welcomed in Hepburn

23-07-2024

Ten residents of the Hepburn Shire have taken Australia's national citizenship pledge or oath in recent days.

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Daylesford’s Central Springs Reserve reopens

23-07-2024

Daylesford's rejuvenated Central Springs Reserve has reopened to the public as of last week.

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Landholders urged to sign up for healthy landscapes course

16-07-2024

Local landowners are being encouraged to sign up for the upcoming Healthy Landscapes Holistic Grazing Management short course now taking applications until July 28, for the next group of students.

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Restoring Hercules…

16-07-2024

The long-awaited restoration of the Hercules statue in the Ballarat Botanical Gardens has now commenced thanks to a generous community donation.

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Looking good for the festival

15-07-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council has secured extra funding of $10,000 through the Victoria State Government’s 2024 Seniors Festival Active Living Fund to deliver Seniors Festival events this October.

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New water fountain helps Daylesford reduce single-use plastic

15-07-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council recently hosted David from Central Highlands Water at Lake Daylesford's new Choose Tap water fountain installed at Chatfield Reserve.

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Reverse vending machine up and operating for Clunes

15-07-2024

The Clunes Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) now is live and operating.

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A first in geosynthetic cell capping at Ballarat landfill

14-07-2024

The City of Ballarat’s first landfill cell capping project using geosynthetic materials has been underway on more than two hectares of land at the Ballarat Regional Landfill in recent days.

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After-hours service provider in data security incident

14-07-2024

The City of Ballarat was recently left to contact residents in recent days, after being notified of a cyber security incident involving its after-hours service provider, OracleCMS.

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Chance to influence Ballarat’s recreation future

09-07-2024

The City of Ballarat is preparing for the future of sporting facilities by outlining a 15-year plan to ensure the municipality’s recreation infrastructure keeps up with forecasted population growth.

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Still can’t get no…

04-07-2024

Results from Hepburn Shire Council’s Community Satisfaction Survey have been released.

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Bendigo’s 24-hour cat containment springs into action

02-07-2024

The City of Greater Bendigo’s new cat containment policy came into effect as of yesterday, July 1.

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Ballarat intercultural garden work begins

02-07-2024

A prominent Ballarat corner is receiving a significant facelift celebrating cultural diversity.

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Macedon Ranges to host school holiday events

28-06-2024

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council is hosting a range of activities and events for children and young people in the shire throughout the July school holidays.

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Hepburn distillery sets a circular economy example

27-06-2024

The Hepburn Distillery is providing a great example of the circular economy in operation with the Hepburn Shire Council publicising it as an example as it promotes a special toolkit for businesses.

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Rates up, operation costs cut, as council adopts new budget

26-06-2024

Ratepayers in Hepburn Shire will have to contend with a 2.275 per cent rate rise after the council adopted its new 2024-2025 budget yesterday.

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Just sayin’…

24-06-2024

I had some time last week so I did a bit of a Google around about farmland and farm zones. I realise there are experts just waiting on Facebook but instead I went to the Victorian Department of Transport and Planning.

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Time extension on strategy consultation: a closer look

19-06-2024

The consultation period on Hepburn Shire Council’s draft Township Structure Plans and Rural Hepburn strategy has been extended to June 26.

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Time running out for say on Ballarat’s draft footpath plan

19-06-2024

The community has just a few days remaining to provide feedback on the City of Ballarat's Draft Footpath Construction Strategy.

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Time to take a tilt at standing for council?

14-06-2024

The Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) is delivering a number of Stand for Council information sessions for the community and prospective candidates.

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Lighting up the hall for elder abuse awareness

13-06-2024

The Kyneton Town Hall will be illuminated purple this Saturday, June 15, in recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD).

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Future Hepburn community submission deadline extended

12-06-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council has extended the consultation period for its draft Township Structure Plans and Rural Hepburn strategy by two weeks, until 26th June, allowing more time for the community to submit feedback.

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Vandalism delays Creswick trails build

12-06-2024

Vandalism is hindering progress toward an early opening of Creswick's Djuwang Baring (Creswick Trails) mountain bike network.

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Chance to help shape industrial future of Ballarat

09-06-2024

The City of Ballarat’s draft Industrial Land Strategy has recently opened for community review and feedback.

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Just sayin’…

09-06-2024

OK. By now we all know the Hepburn Shire Council is in a bit of a state financially.

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Going, going … gone

07-06-2024

One of the protected and historic cedar trees along Malmsbury Road has been felled to make way for road access for the Middleton Field housing estate.

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Islands in a stream of public opinion

06-06-2024

Prompting plenty of public opinion, the current trial of pedestrian islands at the intersection of Fraser and Service Streets in Clunes will continue through to August 4 the Hepburn Shire Council says.

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Big response to Town Structure Plans

06-06-2024

More than 150 people attended a community consultation at the Daylesford Town Hall last Saturday, June 1, over the proposed Hepburn Shire Town Structure Plans.

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Draft budget dire

05-06-2024

Hepburn Shire Council is in such dire financial straits that Mayor Cr Brian Hood and two other councillors voted to defer the release of its draft budget until September.

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Bendigo to trial smoke, vape-free locations

04-06-2024

The City of Greater Bendigo is undertaking smoking and vape-free trials at a number of public sites in Greater Bendigo until Friday June 28, 2024.

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New take on heritage for Macedon Ranges

02-06-2024

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council has endorsed a new Draft Heritage Strategy in recent days, ahead of inviting community consultation in response to its contents.

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Macedon Ranges adopts new budget, shifts to full cost recovery

02-06-2024

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council has endorsed its new Budget 2024-25 and Council Plan 2021-2031.

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World-first coffee concrete trial for Macedon Ranges

01-06-2024

RMIT University and the Macedon Ranges Shire Council have teamed up to conduct a world-first coffee concrete footpath trial.

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Romsey in the spotlight at council meeting

01-06-2024

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council has endorsed a new plan to guide the future development of Romsey township at its recent May meeting.

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New 21-year lease for Clunes caravan park

01-06-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council has entered a new 21-year lease for the operation of the Clunes Caravan Park with the incumbent tenants, Matthew and Dorothy Russell.

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Key appointments for Daylesford Town Hall redevelopment project

01-06-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council has appointed seven community members to its new Daylesford Community Facilities Project Advisory Group to consult with the council and community on potential redevelopment of Daylesford Town Hall into a community facilities hub.

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Council pleased with sustainability progress

31-05-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council says its Sustainable Hepburn Strategy (2022-2026) is making encouraging progress.

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Your say…

29-05-2024

Hepburn Shire Council have completed a tremendous task in producing the Future Hepburn Housing Strategy, but they have reached some unnecessary and damaging conclusions.

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Your say…

29-05-2024

While the Australian Food Sovereignty Alliance applauds Hepburn's efforts in the Rural Hepburn Strategy to protect agricultural land from further inappropriate development for so-called lifestyle blocks we assert that the town structure plans as drafted will thwart this intent to the detriment of both valuable farmland and the character and liveability of our shire's towns.

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Your say…

28-05-2024

After attending Tuesday (May 14) afternoon's meeting, I am still perplexed as to why the council has spent money on four consultants for over two years to come up with a solution that is not only basic and unimaginative but directly contradicts both the community feedback (via the consulting group of 21 residents and the community survey) and its own Agriculture Land Study and Rural Settlement Strategy.

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Your say…

28-05-2024

I am writing to voice my disapproval of the proposed Hepburn Shire Council Draft Plan to change the town boundary along a section of East Street directly across from where I live.

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Just sayin’…

28-05-2024

It will be interesting. So many people against the idea to turn productive farmland into residential land in East Street, Daylesford, but can they change the Hepburn Shire Council's mind?

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From film projectors to freezers: nine local groups clinch community grants

27-05-2024

Nine community groups have received a total of $25,000 funding as part of Round Two of Hepburn Shire’s 2024 Community Grants program.

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Your say…

25-05-2024

It is sad to hear of boundary changes that are being proposed in this historic town.

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Your say …

24-05-2024

I write in concern about the proposal Hepburn Shire Council has to rezone prime farming land on the outskirts of East Street in Daylesford.

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Your say…

24-05-2024

The HSC proposal for potential rezoning of prime agricultural land along East Street must be reconsidered and removed from the Draft Structure Plan.

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Your say…

I’m part of the family who owns the farm on East Street, Daylesford (called Mayfield) which is being proposed to be rezoned, and I’m currently living on that farm.

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Council plans for the future of Hepburn Shire

22-05-2024

The potential rezoning of farm land to residential in East Street, Daylesford, as part of the Future Hepburn draft plans, has raised the ire of many residents in the region, along with the farming family who owns 14 hectares of the land.

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Neighbourhood park improvements next up in the ‘rat…

22-05-2024

The City of Ballarat has released the names of its local neighbourhood parks that are next slated for improvement works under an ongoing rolling program focused on improving and maintaining these local open space gems.

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Concept designs released for Brown Hill splash park, Ballarat

21-05-2024

Ballarat's Brown Hill Splash Park Precinct is a step closer to reality following the recent release of new concept designs.

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Storms, floods, insurance and you – free information sessions

18-05-2024

Next month ARC Justice and the Macedon Ranges Shire Council will host two free information sessions to help residents manage the insurance process during emergencies.

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Hepburn Shire Council overturns officers’ recommendation on planning permit

17-05-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council has overturned a planning officer recommendation on a permit application for a dwelling at Dry Diggings in a 4-3 split decision, amid concerns existing zoning is being ignored.

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Local landholders invited to Healthy Landscapes evening

16-05-2024

Landowners with a passion for improving land management practices are invited to join in a special evening to learn more about the Macedon Ranges Shire Council’s award-winning Healthy Landscapes program.

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Tradie failures raise concerns in Macedon Ranges Shire

16-05-2024

The EPA Victoria and Macedon Ranges Shire Council have raised serious concerns about building industry practices after inspected 34 building sites around Gisborne and New Gisborne.

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Historic Hepburn Springs landmark up for lease

14-05-2024

The Hepburn Pavilion and Kiosk, which has operated at the Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve since 1908, is up for lease.

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Improvements planned for Creswick Road link to Lake Wendouree

12-05-2024

The City of Ballarat is exploring ways to improve the safety and amenity of Macarthur Street between Creswick Road and Wendouree Parade for people using the connection to walk, scoot, push a pram and ride a bike.

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Just sayin’…

12-05-2024

I have been wondering how this year's council elections will go with no ward boundaries.

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Integrity on its way?

10-05-2024

The state government has introduced new legislation to improve council governance and integrity standards, so Victorians can have confidence in the local governments that serve them.

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The Inspectorate and … that leaked document

10-05-2024

In October last year The Local received a leaked document, via a USB drive, regarding the report by the Local Government Inspectorate into Hepburn Shire Council and dealings with The Rex. And a few other things.

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Draft township plans go out for feedback

10-05-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council has endorsed the release of draft Township Structure Plans (for Clunes, Creswick, Daylesford and Hepburn Springs, Glenlyon and Trentham) and Rural Hepburn: Agricultural Land & Rural Settlement Strategy to be open for feedback throughout a six-week community and stakeholder engagement period.

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Springs Reserve upgrade makes headway

06-05-2024

Good progress is being made as part of the first phase of work to upgrade the Central Springs Reserve at Lake Daylesford, the Hepburn Shire Council says.

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Youth summit helps shape Macedon’s approach

05-05-2024

The Macedon Ranges Council’s future plans and actions for young people in the shire are expected to be better informed, following a youth summit held in March.

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Chance to help shape health outcomes for Hepburn shire

05-05-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council is investigating key areas that directly influence the health and wellbeing of its residents with locals invited to participate in an online survey.

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Council formally opposes pokies bid for Romsey pub

05-05-2024

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council has formally endorsed a submission to the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission opposing an application for 50 electronic gaming machines in the Romsey Hotel.

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Special live-streamed meeting ahead for Hepburn

22-04-2024

Releasing proposed new township structure plans and rural strategy for public feedback and input will be the focus of a special meeting of the Hepburn Shire Council set for later this month.

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Hepburn declares ‘zero tolerance’ for dog attacks

19-04-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council has issued infringement notices for matters relating to responsible pet ownership after a number of reported dog attacks recently.

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Cultural change opportunity for local sporting clubs

19-04-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council has announced that it is partnering with Women’s Health Grampians to deliver Act@Play to two sporting clubs located within the region.

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Grab a grant: Hepburn Shire program now open

18-04-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council is encouraging members of the community to check out its Community Grants Program with round three of the program currently open to receive applications until April 29

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‘Closing the loop’ and getting noticed: Macedon Ranges makes the LGPro finals

13-04-2024

Two Macedon Ranges Shire Council programs driving sustainable agriculture practices and waste reduction measures have been announced as finalists in the 2024 LGPro Awards for Excellence.

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Buyers group powers business shift to renewables

13-04-2024

Ballarat area business owners can now shift to a new 100 per cent renewable energy program to cut their emissions and costs via two programs – the Business Renewables Buyers Group and the Ballarat Energy Network.

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Sessions for prospective councillor candidates

13-04-2024

With council elections set for October, the MunicipalAssociation of Victoria will be running information sessions for prospective candidates.

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Major repairs for Ballarat sealed roads

09-04-2024

The City of Ballarat is investing $4 million to repair sealed roads across the municipality as part of its annual major patching and resurfacing maintenance program.

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Masterplans finalised for Clunes parks

08-04-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council has endorsed masterplans to guide the future planning and development of Queens Park and Pioneer Park in Clunes.

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Wildlife road trauma hitting home in Macedon Ranges Shire

08-04-2024

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council will call on the federal gvernment to factor in wildlife trauma and fatalities metrics in federal road safety funding models.

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Draft Ballarat biodiversity strategy open for consultation

06-04-2024

The City of Ballarat's Draft Ballarat Biodiversity Strategy has been released for community review and feedback.

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Chance to help shape future of arts and culture in Hepburn shire

04-04-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council is calling for community feedback on its inaugural Arts and Culture Strategy with submissions open until April 14.

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Local youth invited to nominate for ‘young mayors’ program

04-04-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council and the Foundation for Young Australians have launched the Young Mayors Program (YMP) in the Hepburn Shire.

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Artists shortlisted for Ballarat’s Continuous Voices memorial

02-04-2024

Three artist and designer groups have been shortlisted from a field of 18 applicants to develop designs for the City of Ballarat's long-awaited Continuous Voices public art memorial.

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Going circular: new toolkit for a more sustainable economy

01-04-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council has launched its Circular Hepburn Toolkit, a guide to help local businesses reduce costs, reduce their impact on the environment and boost the circular economy.

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Community members sought for town hall advisory group

01-04-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council is inviting community members to apply to join an advisory group to help determine if Daylesford Town Hall can be refurbished to include a community hub with a library and multi-purpose spaces.

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Kyle’s Rant

01-04-2024

Warning: The first three paragraphs of this editorial will probably put you to sleep!

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Council offers free school holiday fun for local families

31-03-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council is offering local families a range of free activities to help keep kids entertained over the Easter term holidays.

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New master plan for Ballarat’s botanical gardens

25-03-2024

The City of Ballarat is developing a new master plan for its botanical gardens, to guide how it shapes the living attraction into the future.

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Intercultural garden grows closer to reality

23-03-2024

A prominent new garden that will celebrate Ballarat's diverse cultural backgrounds has taken a major step towards completion.

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Autumn festival returns to Macedon Ranges

22-03-2024

The award-winning Autumn Festival returns this April, showcasing towns across the Macedon Ranges through a range of new and returning trails, events, activities and participating business specials.

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Time to register Fido and Fluffy

22-03-2024

Pet owners in Ballarat are being gently reminded that pet registrations fall due on April 10 for renewals and new pets.

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Opportunity for Wendouree cyclists, walkers

21-03-2024

Work has begun to explore opportunities to make Ballarat's Forest Street in Wendouree safer, more enjoyable and more accessible for people walking and cycling.

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Community survey to shape Romsey Hotel gaming machine submission

21-03-2024

Romsey residents – and those living within five kilometres of the Romsey Hotel – are being invited to complete a survey relating to an application for gaming machines, to help inform the Macedon Ranges Shire Council’s submission to the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC).

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New members needed for Ballarat heritage advisory committee

21-03-2024

The City of Ballarat Heritage Advisory Committee is currently seeking new members from the community.

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Five women inducted to IWD Honour Roll

14-03-2024

A large crowd gathered in Daylesford last Thursday evening to congratulate five new inductees to the International Women's Day (IWD) Heather Mutimer Honour Roll.

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Amendment paves way for new supermarket, medical centre in Gisborne

11-03-2024

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council has endorsed a planning amendment paving the way for the development of a small supermarket, medical centre, office, two cafes and parking in Gisborne's south.

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Chance to shape Riddells Creek transport future

10-03-2024

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council is inviting input from the wider community to help shape the future of transport for the growing community of Riddles Creek.

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Council invites input on multipurpose facility location

10-03-2024

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council is calling for community feedback on the preferred site for a new multipurpose facility at Kyneton's Barkly Square.

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Chance to help shape gambling harm prevention in Macedon Ranges

10-03-2024

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council is inviting community response to its new draft Gambling Harm Prevention Policy that it has endorsed for community consultation at its February meeting.

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Rosalind Park poppet head tower closed

09-03-2024

The City of Greater Bendigo has closed the Rosalind Park Poppet Head tower to the general public following an engineering inspection of the structure which discovered significant rust issues on its upper levels.

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Council acts to minimise enviro impacts around Eaglehawk landfill site

08-03-2024

The City of Greater Bendigo Council last week adopted a planning scheme amendment introducing a buffer overlay around Eaglehawk Landfill to minimise future environmental impacts.

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Annual Ballarat fireworks display date shift

08-03-2024

Ballarat City Councillors have resolved to shift the city's annual fireworks display to New Year's Eve.

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Big community invite for cultural diversity lunch event

06-03-2024

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council is inviting the community to join a special free lunch event and shared storytelling at the Kyneton Town Hall on Friday 22 March to celebrate Cultural Diversity Week.

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Bendigo properties mooted for sale: council invites feedback

05-03-2024

Greater Bendigo residents are invited to have their say on the potential sale of a number of City of Greater Bendigo owned properties.

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Bridge Mall redevelopment works revitalise historic retail precinct

01-03-2024

Ballarat's Bridge Mall redevelopment is revitalising the historic retail precinct in the centre of Ballarat.

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Consultants engaged to assess state of Hepburn shire roads

01-03-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council has engaged Talis Consultants to carry out a condition assessment of the Shire’s 620 kms of sealed roads, 835 kms of unsealed road and 95 kms of kerb and channel.

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Daylesford Town Hall to close for upgrade works

28-02-2024

The Daylesford Town Hall will close for essential electrical and roofing works for at least 18 months from September, the Hepburn Shire Council has announced this afternoon.

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Native plants giveaway for Moorabool residents

26-02-2024

The Moorabool Shire council is taking a pro-active approach to beautifying the shire and creating healthy habitats by giving away free native plants throughout autumn.

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Bendigo’s big letters zhooshed for International Womens Day

25-02-2024

The big Bendigo sign in the city's Rosalind Park piazza has been zhooshed up by local artists as part of the Women of Gold project to celebrate International Women’s Day coming up March 8.

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Roads, paths and climate: Ballarat’s priorities revealed

24-02-2024

Road maintenance, the improvement of cycleways and footpaths, and increasing investment in climate change have emerged as top priorities for the community in the City of Ballarat's 2024/25 Annual Budget consultation.

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Funding clinched for Riddles Creek rec reserve lights

23-02-2024

Users of the Riddells Creek Recreation Reserve will soon benefit from some better lighting thanks to a funding partnership between Macedon Ranges Shire Council, the state government and the community.

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Applications open for Ballarat’s nature stewards program

23-02-2024

Applications are now open for the City of Ballarat’s third Nature Stewards program, where community members can discover new exciting ways to learn and care for nature.

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Chance to name Creswick Trails segments

23-02-2024

Construction of the Creswick (mountain biking) Trails continues to progress toward an anticipated opening in December. Meantime, there’s an opportunity to get involved by helping to name sections of the trail, the Hepburn Shire Council says.

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Road works start near Macedon Ranges Sports Precint

23-02-2024

Work is scheduled to start in coming days to upgrade the intersection of Barringo and Hamilton roads in New Gisborne, improving access and safety around the Macedon Ranges Regional Sports Precinct.

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Wards to be axed in Hepburn shire electoral move

22-02-2024

The state's minister for local government has announced a new electoral structure for Hepburn Shire that will do away with the current ward system.

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Sustainable Day Out coming up soon

22-02-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council is preparing to host the Sustainable Hepburn Day Out at Daylesford's Victoria Park on Saturday March 16.

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Kerb works mark seven-month milestone for Bridge Mall revamp

19-02-2024

Kerbing works have begun as part of Ballarat's Bridge Mall redevelopment project.

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Ballarat’s Parent Place outreach service extended

18-02-2024

After a successful trial series, the City of Ballarat’s Parent Place Outreach service will continue in 2024.

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Rolling out rebates to reduce rubbish: Macedon Ranges shire takes action

18-02-2024

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council has renewed its reusable nappy, sanitary and incontinence product rebate program to reduce waste in landfill and assist residents in accessing affordable reusable items.

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And the lucky recipients are …

15-02-2024

The Hepburn shire council’s latest community grants round is expected to support sustainability initiatives, protect heritage, encourage sport and recreation, boost children’s programs, support local agriculture, enhance events ... and more.

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City offering complimentary microchipping in return for pet registrations

12-02-2024

Ballarat residents can now get free microchipping for their four-legged friends in return for ensuring that their pets are registered with the City of Ballarat for this year.

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Prime chance to have your ‘two cents worth’ on key council decisions

10-02-2024

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council has launched a new online hub to help it gain useful feedback from the community on significant council policies or initiatives.

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Paving the way for Ballarat’s footpaths of the future

10-02-2024

The City of Ballarat is developing a Footpath Construction Strategy to guide how it prioritises and funds where new footpaths are built with two community pop-up sessions taking place today.

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City of Ballarat takes out national Snap Send Solve Customer Service award

09-02-2024

The City of Ballarat’s efforts to improve customer service appear to be paying off with the announcement that it has taken out the national and state Customer Service Award in the Snap Send Solve 2023 Solver of the Year Awards.

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Program launched for Ballarat’s Begonia Festival

08-02-2024

Deputy Mayor Cr Peter Eddy, Board Chair of Central Highlands Regional Water Corporation Angeleen Jenkins, Cr Sam McIntosh and Mayor Cr Des Hudson.

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Hundreds provide input on Ballarat’s open spaces

09-02-2024

More than 700 people have provided their feedback to help develop the City of Ballarat’s new Open Space Strategy.

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Kerbside food and garden organics service starts April

07-02-2024

Kerbside bin collection is set to change in townships in Hepburn Shire with the introduction of a weekly food and garden organics service (also called FOGO) from Monday April 8.

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Boulders installed at Bourke Square, Daylesford

06-02-2024

Large boulders have recently been installed in Daylesford's Bourke Square.

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Sunset in the springs: free community concerts

03-02-2024

Everyone is invited to enjoy some top live music with two free family-friendly community concerts taking place over the next two consecutive Friday evenings this month.

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Council awards for citizens and events

31-01-2024

Creswick's Neville Cartledge OAM and Pat Tacey have shared the top honour and jointly been named Hepburn Shire Citizen of the Year.

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Thirty-five new citizens to be welcomed

24-01-2024

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council will welcome 35 new citizens and present the shire's 2024 Community Awards at the Kyneton Town Hall, tomorrow, Thursday 25 January.

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New Survival Day events program set for Ballarat

24-01-2024

Ballarat’s fifth annual Survival Day Dawn Ceremony this Friday, January 26 will be complemented by the addition of a Community Reflection and Healing Day activities program extending into the afternoon.

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Smoother journey now possible along Gisborne’s Sheedy Road

23-01-2024

Works to upgrade a section of Sheedy Road in Gisborne are now complete.

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Wendouree e-scooter fire a reminder of lithium-ion battery risk

22-01-2024

Victorian fire agencies are reminding residents to be cautious when charging lithium-ion battery operated devices following an e-scooter house fire in Wendouree earlier this month.

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Flood mitigation workshop for farmers

21-01-2024

Early next month the Hepburn Shire Council will host a workshop to help local farmers work on strategies to deal with the increasing prevalence of extreme weather events.

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Chance to shape the future of reconciliation in Hepburn shire

21-01-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council is currently inviting expressions of interest from members of the community who are interested in joining its Reconciliation Advisory Committee.

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Community events set for January 25 and January 26

21-01-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council is inviting all residents of the shire to attend a special free event celebrating its Community Award winners for 2024 and welcoming its new Australian citizens.

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106-lot subdivision plans lodged for Clunes

10-01-2024

The township of Clunes looks as though it may be poised to expand with a planning application lodged seeking to subdivide a 29.31 hectare parcel of land to create 106 new housing lots.

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Carbon sink pilot interests local landholders

09-01-2024

Growing Habitat for Net-Zero in Central Victoria - A new Central Victorian carbon offset project is aimed at helping local councils reach their net-zero emission goals, while providing private landholders all the benefits from growing trees and shrubs on their property.

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Biodiversity informs township planning

09-01-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council says biodiversity assessments have been conducted to inform township structure plans for its five main towns as part of the ‘Future Hepburn’ program.

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‘SHAC’ up and ready to work

08-01-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council has welcomed ten community members and two councillors who have joined its Sustainable Hepburn Community Advisory Committee (the “SHAC”!), which met for the first time late last year.

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Go solar for less: Hepburn Shire Council urges locals

07-01-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council says it's making solar power more accessible to low-income households through the Solar Savers program, which is now in its sixth year.

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Hepburn Shire to start new food and organics collection

07-01-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council will introduce a weekly kerbside collection of food and garden organics for township residents this year, in a bid to help divert thousands of tonnes of organic material from landfill.

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Waste or treasure? Hepburn’s e-recovery pilot pans out

06-01-2024

Hepburn shire residents can can now purchase low-cost e-"waste" items at Creswick and Trentham Transfer Stations.

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More than smashed avo: circular economy breakfasts catch on in Hepburn

06-01-2024

Encouraged by the success of its first ever circular economy breakfast, the Hepburn Shire Council is now inviting more locals to make sure they're part of the next.

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‘Become a nature steward’: council invites locals

05-01-2024

The Hepburn Shire Council is inviting local residents to participate in an upcoming Nature Stewards course.

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Save the date: Sustainable Hepburn Day

04-01-2024

Following the success of Hepburn Shire Council's first Sustainable Hepburn Day hosted at Trentham in 2022, the informative community event is set to return on Saturday 16 March 2024 at Victoria Park in Daylesford.

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Bendigo goes on-leash for pooch walkers

02-01-2024

As of yesterday, January 1, Greater Bendigo changed from being an off-leash default to an on-leash default municipality with new designated areas where dogs can be exercised off-leash.

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Ballan library project funding failure

01-01-2024

The Morabool Shire Council was disappointed to learn a funding application to the Federal Government for the civic plaza at the recently tendered new Ballan Library and Community Precinct site was unsuccessful.

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Geelong precinct scores 6-star waste rating

01-01-2024

The City of Greater Geelong has been awarded a coveted 6-Star NABERS waste rating for the Wurriki Nyal Civic Precinct located in the waterside city's Mercer Street.

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Poppy Kettle Playground reopened

01-01-2024

One of Geelong’s most loved waterfront features, Poppy Kettle Playground, has re-opened in time for the current school holiday break following the installation of a new slide and completion of maintenance works.

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Operators announced for new Moorabool Aquatic Recreation stadium

01-01-2024

The Moorabool Shire Council has announced a three-year partnership with Belgravia Leisure in the new Moorabool Aquatic Recreation Centre Indoor Stadium at Maddingley.

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Moorabool shire ‘disappointment’ at Western Renewables Link verdict

31-12-2023

The Moorabool Shire Council has expressed its disappointment at the verdict handed down by the Supreme Court earlier this month relating to the Western Renewables Link (WRL).

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New aquatic equipment to assist community

30-12-2023

The Ballarat Aquatic and Lifestyle Centre has proudly unveiled the installation of a new piece of equipment that could prove to be a game-changer in accessibility for individuals with significant physical disabilities in the community.

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Sensory play space opened in Ballarat

29-12-2023

City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Des Hudson joined Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison MP last week to officially open a new sensory friendly play zone at the city's Victoria Park Inclusive Play Space.

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Council awards major contracts

29-12-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council has awarded several major contracts at its December meeting held last week.

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Council adopts new policy for property management

29-12-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council has adopted new policies governing the way it manages leases, licences and the disposal and acquisition of land.

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Feedback sought on complaint and unreasonable behaviour draft

26-12-2023

A Draft Complaint and Unreasonable Behaviour Policy is among several iniatives for which the Macedon Ranges Shire Council will invite community feedback early in the new year.

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Hepburn handballs building permit application process

26-12-2023

People hoping to gain a building permit projects in the Hepburn shire will now have to lodge their building permit applications with a private building surveyor, rather than the council, following a recent announcement.

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Toolkit offers helping hand for event organisers

26-12-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council has launched a new event toolkit to help local event organisers to plan and carry out events successfully.

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New road strategy aims to keep people and wildlife safe

24-12-2023

A new road safety strategy aimed at protecting both motorists and wildlife features among several significant items that have been endorsed by the Macedon Ranges Shire Council at its final scheduled meeting for 2023.

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New protection guide for Macedon Ranges heritage

24-12-2023

A document aimed at guiding future heritage protection throughout the Macedon Ranges Shire features among several significant items endorsed by the Macedon Ranges Shire Council at its final scheduled meeting for the year.

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Macedon Ranges endorses climate emergency plan

21-12-2023

The Macedon Ranges Shire has endorsed a new Climate Emergency Plan 2023-30 among multiple significant decisions rubber-stamped at its last scheduled meeting for the year that took place last week.

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CCTV for Creswick EV charge station

20-12-2023

CCTV surveillance equipment to protect Creswick’s public EV charge station is scheduled for installation this week, Hepburn Shire Council CEO Bradley Thomas has confirmed.

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Geelong’s Dell Eco Reef wins international acclaim

18-12-2023

The innovative modular units used in Geelong's Dell Eco Reef project at Clifton Springs have been recognised with a prestigious international award for design and sustainability.

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Ballarat’s Boer War memorial statue to be replaced

16-12-2023

The Boer War Memorial statue that has stood proudly in Ballarat's Sturt Street for 117 years is slated for replacement.

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Ballarat’s smallest open spaces shaped to fit resident needs

15-12-2023

The City of Ballarat’s Neighbourhood Parks Program has now reached a significant milestone after being launched in July this year.

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Tenders out to connect growing Ballarat suburbs

15-12-2023

Tenders have been released for a contractor to construct the trail from Victoria Park to Morshead Park along the Ballarat's busy Sutton Street.

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Creswick Trails project ‘on track’: council

14-12-2023

Progress on the Creswick Trails project has hit a major milestone with around 30 kilometres of trails completed and the project expected to be completed in December next year, the council says in a prepared statement.

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Removal of Lancefield development plan overlay declined

14-12-2023

A request to the Minister for Planning to remove the Lancefield Development Plan Overlay, which would have "simplified development requirements" for affected landowners, has been declined.

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Ballarat launches Christmas highlights program

13-12-2023

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Ballarat.

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Got a mo’ to spare: council wants to hear from you

07-12-2023

The Mount Macedon Shire Council is searching for community-minded residents with some spare time to help service an expanding program of diverse, fulfilling volunteer initiatives.

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One month on: help remains in wake of Daylesford tragedy

06-12-2023

Yesterday marked one month since the fatal tragedy that occured in Daylesford and impacted many in the local community and far beyond.

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Tree works at Lake Wendouree

04-12-2023

The City of Ballarat says it will remove and replace 12 poplar, willow and claret ash trees that are at the end of their life or in poor condition around Lake Wendouree.

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Macedon Ranges Shire Council decides…

03-12-2023

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council has endorsed a number of significant items at its recent November scheduled meeting.

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Woodend Golf Club opens upgraded clubrooms

02-12-2023

The Woodend Golf Club’s newly renovated clubrooms officially opened this month, providing a safer and more accessible facility for members and the community.

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Global cat vaccination shortage impacts local shelter

01-12-2023

The Ballarat Animal Shelter has announced that it has limited capacity to take on unvaccinated cats or kittens currently due to the extreme cat vaccine shortage occurring worldwide.

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Meet Councillor Christine

30-11-2023

Following the Victorian Electoral Commission recent countback to fill a councillor vacancy in Macedon Ranges Shire Council's South Ward, successful candidate Christine Walker was officially sworn in to her new role as councillor at a ceremony on Wednesday November 15.

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Death re-elected mayor for Macedon Ranges

30-11-2023

East Ward councillor Annette Death has been re-elected as mayor for the final year of the current four-year council term the the Macedon Ranges Shire.

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Lake lighting switched on

29-11-2023

The Lake Wendouree and Victoria Park Link Lighting project in Ballarat has been officially switched on in recent days.

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Town ‘open for business’ post tragedy

24-11-2023

Daylesford and Hepburn Shire are definitely open for business and for visitors, Hepburn Shire Mayor Cr Brian Hood says. Cr Hood said in the aftermath of the (November 5, Daylesford) accident many traders were left wondering if they should close, remain closed or be open for visitors and the vital tourism trade.

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Hood back, Simpson elected for Hepburn

22-11-2023

Hepburn Shire Councillors have returned Cr Brian Hood as Mayor and elected Cr Juliet Simpson as Deputy Mayor.

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Circular economy business breakfast

22-11-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council is encouraging local business operators to attend a circular economy themed business breakfast on Thursday 30 November at Creswick Neighbourhood Centre.

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Electronic gaming machine application for Romsey Hotel

19-11-2023

In the sleepy country town of Romsey, 55 kilometres north-west of Melbourne, residents are gearing up to fight the Romsey Football Netball Club's (RFNC) bid to redevelop and reopen the shuttered Romsey Hotel, with 50 pokies machines.

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Des returned as mayor for City of Ballarat

17-11-2023

The City of Ballarat councillors have elected Cr Des Hudson as Mayor and Cr Peter Eddy Deputy Mayor for the 2023/24 term.

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Christine Walker to fill Macedon Ranges councillor vacancy

15-11-2023

The Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) has declared Christine Walker as the successful candidate to fill Macedon Ranges Shire Council's extraordinary South Ward Councillor vacancy, following a countback held online on Monday.

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New open space strategy for Ballarat

15-11-2023

What does being outside mean to you? This will be one of the key questions to answer to help develop Ballarat’s Open Space Strategy 2024.

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Clean up with Free Green Waste Week and Half Price Mattress Week

14-11-2023

The City of Ballarat is helping residents clean up around their house and in their gardens this spring with Free Green Waste Week and Half Price Mattress Week.

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Lest We Forget

11-11-2023

Daylesford RSL held a moving Remembrance Day service today, with two minutes' silence. One, at 11am, for those who lost their lives in World War I and one, just a little later, for those who lost their lives in last Sunday's terrible accident outside The Royal Hotel.

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Planning amendment mooted for Malmsbury land

10-11-2023

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council is inviting community feedback on a planning scheme amendment that proposes rezoning land near Malmsbury's eastern entrance help preserve the township’s character.

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E-‘waste’ now available to purchase at shire transfer stations

08-11-2023

Following the success of the Hepburn Shire Council's e-waste recovery pilot at Daylesford Transfer Station, electronic items are now available for purchase at all of the council's transfer stations - Daylesford, Creswick and Trentham.

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Bright sparks: new lights for Newlyn

08-11-2023

The oval lighting for Newlyn's Recreation Reserve is about to be upgraded to compliant AFL competition standard 100 lux level LEDs, with works starting this month.

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Networking night an end of year bash for local business

07-11-2023

Businesses in Hepburn Shire are being encouraged to join a free business networking evening hosted by the Hepburn Shire Council on Tuesday 28 November from 5.30pm to 7.30pm at the Daylesford Hotel.

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Outdoor pools prepare for new summer season

06-11-2023

The City of Ballarat’s outdoor pools will begin opening from this month for the new summer season.

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Creative city: the ‘rat is ‘on track’

06-11-2023

The City of Ballarat says it is on track to meet almost all of its goals outlined in its 2019 Creative City Strategy.

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Ballarat to change up its kerbside services

05-11-2023

The Ballarat City Council has endorsed several changes to its kerbside waste and recycling services.

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Smashing summer of cricket ahead at Ballarat’s Victoria Park

05-11-2023

A big summer of cricket awaits at Ballarat's Victoria Park following the completion of a project to construct four cricket nets.

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Grants to support biodiversity and care for the land

03-11-2023

Hepburn Shire councillors have met with local community groups to acknowledge their 'outstanding work and commitment', after the council awarded them a share of $38,900 in Biodiversity and Landcare Grants.

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Local land care groups secure grant dollars

03-11-2023

Fifteen different local landcare, friends groups or networks will benefit from close to $60,000 worth of funding that's just been awarded through the Macedon Ranges Shire Council's annual Environment Group Support Grants.

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Romsey storm waste facility wins sustainability award

03-11-2023

Macedon Ranges Shire Council's flagship storm waste facility now has a trio of awards to its name, after picking up another accolade at the recent 2023 Keep Australia Beautiful Victoria Tidy Towns & Cities Sustainability Awards.

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Polystyrene recycled as resource recovery options expand in Macedon shire

02-11-2023

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council says it's leading the way in reducing waste to landfill by providing resale shops, textile and polystyrene recycling, and free mulch for residents at its resource recovery facilities.

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Stand out from the crowd: an opportunity for local business

01-12-2023

Local businesses that are kicking goals and achieving great things in the Macedon Ranges Shire are being encouraged to enter the 2024 Macedon Ranges Business Excellence Awards.

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Christmas countdown call to jingle tills in revamped Bridge Mall

31-10-2023

The City of Ballarat is encouraging the wider community to support their favourite shops and businesses in the Bridge Mall in the lead up to Christmas.

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30-10-2023

Individuals or groups are being encouraged to put forward their case for Macedon Ranges Shire Council funding in the 2024/25 financial year as part of an earlier, streamlined budget consultation process.

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Subsidies up for cat desexing in the ‘rat

30-10-2023

Cat owners in Ballarat once again have the opportunity to have their cat desexed at a subsidised cost.

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Hepburn affirms ‘unwavering commitment to reconciliation’

29-10-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to reconciliation, in the wake of the nation's defeated Voice To Parliament referendum.

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Free green waste disposal available

23-10-2023

The Mount Alexander Shire Council is offering free green waste disposal to help its residents prepare homes and properties for the upcoming fire danger period.

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Ballarat aims to eliminate waste to landfill

22-10-2023

City of Ballarat residents are being invited to provide feedback on how the community can work to achieve zero recoverable waste going to landfill by 2040.

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Creswick’s Cr Don Henderson awarded

19-10-2023

Creswick ward councillor Don Henderson has received a 15-year service award for his outstanding contribution to Hepburn Shire at the Municipal Association of Victoria Annual Conference Gala Dinner last week.

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Youth forum to help shape Ballarat’s biodiversity strategy

19-10-2023

Local youth aged between 15 and 25 are being encouraged to participate in the City of Ballarat’s Biodiversity Youth Forum this Saturday.

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Vacancy on Macedon Ranges Shire Council

18-10-2023

A countback to fill an extraordinary vacancy on Macedon Ranges Shire Council for South Ward will be held online at 10 am on Monday 13 November. The vacancy is due to the resignation of councillor Anne Moore.

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New bore to be drilled at Daylesford’s Central Springs Reserve

18-10-2023

Work at Daylesford's Central Springs Reserve starts this week to prepare the site for the drilling of a new mineral springs bore.

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Detox day happens for free this Saturday

18-10-2023

Ballarat area residents are being encouraged to spring clean their homes and safely dispose of unwanted household chemicals with the free ‘Detox your Home’ event taking place this Saturday.

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Community award nominations open in Macedon Ranges

17-10-2023

Nominations are now open to recognise local people and groups and funding support is available for those planning to hold free Australia Day community events throughout the Macedon Ranges Shire.

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Powerline clearance program starts for Kyneton and Gisborne

17-10-2023

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council says it's beginning its annual street tree powerline pruning and maintenance program.

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Councillor resignation from Macedon Ranges Shire Council

17-10-2023

Macedon Ranges Shire Council officers are working with Local Government Victoria and the Victorian Electoral Commission to fill an unanticipated councillor vacancy following the sudden resignation of a local councillor.

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Locals urged to help shape Gisborne Futures Plan

17-10-2023

Macedon Ranges Shire residents are being encouraged to have a role in shaping the future of Gisborne, New Gisborne and surrounds and to give feedback on the revised draft of the Gisborne Futures Structure Plan.

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Tackling gambling harm in Ballarat

16-10-2023

The City of Ballarat is partnering with a range of community advocate bodies to shine a light on the harm caused by gambling in Ballarat.

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Just sayin’…

15-10-2023

I received some mail late last week. Snail mail. A padded envelope. Small. I opened it and inside was a blank piece of A4 paper. Nothing written on it, just a USB stick taped on. Hmmm, I thought. That's going to be interesting.

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Review of Council-owned property policies

16-10-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council is updating policies that will govern how it manages council-owned and controlled property, including leases, licences, and the disposal and acquisition of land and buildings.

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Ballarat’s Biketober a ‘wheelie good time to get on yer bike’

08-10-2023

October has arrived so it’s time to pump up those tyres and get excited for a month filled with "awesome bike ride adventures", say organisers with Ballarat's Biketober.

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Ballarat youth hub brainstorm, ideas sought

08-10-2023

If you have ideas for Ballarat’s own dedicated youth hub that will make a difference to the way young people connect, grow and feel supported, then the City of Ballarat wants to hear from you.

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Ballarat’s partnerships program helps projects happen

07-10-2023

The City of Ballarat is seeking Expressions of Interests from local organisations or entities keen to deliver projects that will benefit Ballarat.

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Events contribute big time for Ballarat

06-10-2023

Events that were delivered or funded by the City of Ballarat have generated more than $44 million for the city’s economy in the most recent financial year.

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Local council allocates handy small grants

06-10-2023

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council has allocated $15,131.50 in small project grants to support various community groups including Kyneton Agricultural Society, Macedon Ranges Bowling Club, Kyneton and Districts Toy Library, Kerrie Hall, the Kyneton Backyard Growers, and Malmsbury Mail.

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Council move on cultural diversity and inclusion

05-10-2023

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council has adopted a Draft Cultural Diversity and Inclusion Statement which outlines its commitment to cultural diversity.

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Council focus on progress at Barrm Birrm

05-10-2023

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council has received a progress update regarding the ongoing management of the Barrm Birrm area in Riddells Creek.

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New public drink fountain for Creswick trailhead

04-10-2023

Central Highlands Water and the Hepburn Shire Council joined forces last week to launch a new Choose Tap drinking fountain at Creswick's new Hammon Park Trailhead.

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Climate emergency plan: council releases draft for public input

04-10-2023

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council has endorsed the release of its draft Climate Emergency Plan for community consultation.

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Twenty-six actions to tackle Hepburn’s affordable housing worries: council adopts paper

04-10-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council has in recent days adopted ‘A Home in Hepburn Shire’, which outlines 26 actions on what it now intends do to help meet the many challenges of affordable housing needs shire-wide.

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Thousands of animals adopted in Ballarat

04-10-2023

The Ballarat Animal Shelter has recently celebrated the 3000th animal adopted from the facility.

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Local shire welcomes new Aussies

10-10-2023

A total 65 adults and 11 children have proudly received official Australian citizenship at an Australian Citizenship Ceremony hosted by Moorabool Shire Council Mayor Cr Rod Ward over the weekend.

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Aqualink nodes project link aims to get locals moving

10-10-2023

The Morabool Shire Council welcomed Member for Eureka Michaela Settle to Darley last month to help turn the first sod of the new Aqualink activity nodes project.

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Heritage protection for 32 sites across Macedon Ranges Shire

03-10-2023

Ministerial approval of a planning scheme amendment means more than 30 sites across the Macedon Ranges Shire will now have new heritage protection.

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Branching out to address mental health in children

03-10-2023

A Macedon Ranges Shire Council-led pilot program is working to address one of the Macedon Ranges’ most critical issues, in better supporting mental health in primary school-aged children.

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FOGO service to start next year, Hepburn households

02-10-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council will introduce a weekly kerbside collection of food organics and garden organics (FOGO) for township residents early next year in a move aimed at diverting thousands of tonnes of organic material from landfill

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Financial statements in spotlight for Hepburn Shire Council

02-10-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council has adopted its annual financial statements and performance statement for 2022/23 at its ordinary September meeting in recent days.

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Rex a ‘$5.647 million loss’: council reports

29-09-2023

The buying and selling of The Rex building in Daylesford resulted in a cash loss for the project of $5.647 million, Hepburn Shire Council reports show.

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Daylesford planning application understood to be for ‘The Block’

29-09-2023

A planning application for five houses at 1 Raglan Street, Daylesford, understood to be for television show The Block, will go before Hepburn Shire Council at its October 17 meeting.

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Arts Incubator officially opens

27-09-2023

A living, breathing, creative arts hub in the heart of the CBD is further cementing Ballarat’s reputation as a Creative City.

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Ballarat’s Biketober prepares to roll

26-09-2023

Biketober is coming to Ballarat – a fun, free and friendly biking challenge for the entire community to take part in throughout the month of October.

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Macedon lifts burn off restrictions this Octber

26-09-2023

A temporary burn-off exemption will be introduced throughout October across the Macedon Ranges Shire to help landowners prepare their properties ahead of the upcoming fire season.

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Showcasing inclusion the photographic way

26-09-2023

To recognise International Day of People with Disability the Macedon Ranges Shire Council will be holding a “Showcasing Inclusion” photo competition and is inviting the community to submit photos that show inclusivity in daily life.

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A’liddle’ success story

25-09-2023

A City of Ballarat strategic partnership with non-profit Runway has empowered local businesses to do good in the community.

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Sustainable upgrade for the ‘rat’s heritage style street lights

24-09-2023

Phase two of the City of Ballarat’s LED residential street lighting upgrade is complete, with almost 850 heritage style street lights receiving new fittings.

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Input invited on Hepburn shire transport future

21-09-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council is encouraging its residents to complete a survey on how they travel around the shire and to provide their own ideas for improving local transport options.

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Time to nominate a community winner

21-09-2023

Nominations are now open for the 2024 Hepburn Shire Council Community Awards.

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Prime time to help shape future shape of Ballarat

11-09-2023

Now is the time for Ballarat residents to provide feedback as to how the city should grow towards 2041.

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Some local biodiversity grant results come back

06-09-2023

Results of two projects funded under the Hepburn Shire's 2022 Biodiversity Grant program and completed in June are in.

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A bit of help to make the switch to cloth nappies

10-09-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council says it's working to help local families with babies make the shift to using cloth nappies in order to help reduce waste to landfill.

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Trash may also be treasure: council offers circular economy platform

09-09-2023

Hepburn Shire Council says it's now offering free access to a circular economy platform called ASPIRE for all organisations and businesses with 20 employees or less.

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Getting roadside weeds under control

09-09-2023

In the last financial year, 165 kilometres of environmental weed control was carried out on approximately 2,500 km of Hepburn Shire-managed roadsides, the council is reporting.

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Holistic grazing course coming soon for Hepburn locals with livestock

08-09-2023

Hepburn Shire residents who keep livestock are being urged to secure their place in the award-winning Healthy Landscapes 2023/2024 Holistic Grazing Course which begins Friday 15 September.

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Locals encouraged to help cut big food waste, curb emissions

08-09-2023

The average household in Victoria throws away $2600 worth of food a year. Food that ends up in landfill creates harmful greenhouse gases.

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Alternative sport and active recreation site proposed for Clunes

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Draft masterplans released for Queens and Pioneer Parks in Clunes: feedback sought

10-09-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council has released draft masterplans for Queens Park and Pioneer Park in Clunes and is inviting the community to have a say on the future direction of these important community sites.

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Forum for Hepburn shire farmers

05-09-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council is hosting a forum for local farmers in collaboration with Agriculture Victoria to provide updates on a range of issues impacting farming operations.

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Cash, Carter and plenty of pleasant pluckers in store for 55+ set

05-09-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council says it's once again supporting the Victorian Seniors Festival program, with lots of fun and free events planned in October for people aged 55+ years.

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A little council incentive to turn waste into garden gold

04-09-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council is offering shire residents subsidised compost bins to help them reduce waste to landfill by turning food scraps and garden waste into compost.

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EV charge station vandalised, Creswick

02-09-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council has confirmed that it is working on possible security measures after the new electric vehicle charge station at Creswick was vandalised recently, rendering it currently offline.

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Bad behaviour called out as council staff targetted

01-08-2023

Aggressive behaviour towards Hepburn Shire Council staff is on the increase and reaching unprecedented levels.

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Immunisation sessions in store for Talbot and Dunolly

27-08-2023

The Central Goldfields Shire Council's Immunisation team is running free immunisation sessions in Talbot and Dunolly from now until November.

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Tenders open for next stage works at MR Power Park

26-08-2023

Tenders have opened this month for the next part of Ballarat's MR Power Park Masterplan, with installation of a water drainage basin near Morgan Street next on the list for the park.

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New Glenelg Highway bike path taking shape

26-08-2023

The Ballarat City Council has invited community feedback on where rest stops, seating and crossings should be located along the Glenelg Highway Bike Path.

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Ballarat’s office-based businesses encouraged to switch to net zero

26-08-2023

The City of Ballarat has joined CitySwitch – a free national program that helps office-based businesses reduce emissions and their environmental impact, and is urging office-based businesses to jump on board.

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Hepburn Shire pitches support behind Voice to Parliament

25-08-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council has formally stated its unanimous support for the constitutional recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through the Voice to Parliament.

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Winning youth in Macedon Shire

25-08-2023

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council’s annual Youth Awards were held at Kyneton Town Hall earlier this month with a crowd of over 100 people gathering to celebrate the outstanding achievements of young people in the shire.

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Chance to jump on board community carbon project

24-08-2023

Hepburn shire locals who are passionate about the environment and who want to take action on climate change are being invited to get involved in a significant native planting program.

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Making progress? council releases progress report

24-08-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council has released a summary of progress towards delivering goals contained in its 2022/2023 Annual Plan.

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Council praise for govt move on Hanging Rock precinct

24-08-2023

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council has welcomed a recent state government announcement which it says will 'protect the future of the culturally significant Hanging Rock'.

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Rate notices hit local letter boxes

24-08-2023

Ratepayers in Hepburn Shire have begun receiving their rates notices over recent days.

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Kyle’s Rant…

21-08-2023

I am not much for Facebook in fact my FB friends could be dead and I wouldn’t know, but the other half told me recently of a post that made me wince from the Hepburn Shire Council (HSC).

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Keep the legend simmering

17-08-2023

In his day yesteryear Creswick identity Simon (Simmy) McDonald was something of a household name in folk music circles.

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The Local Podcast August 14 edition

12-08-2023

The latest Local Podcast is now on our website where we discuss what is in the next edition of The Local

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Plans progress for Lancefield’s new kinder

12-08-2023

Improved early years services are a step closer for Lancefield, with planning progressing on a new kindergarten and Maternal and Child Health (MCH) building due to open in 2024.

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Local farmers encouraged to apply for award-winning course

11-08-2023

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council's award-winning Holistic Grazing Management course will return in September, with local farmers encouraged to participate and learn about sustainable farming practices.

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Replacement of the flood-damaged footbridge

11-08-2023

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council says it's working closely with its insurance provider to prioritise replacing the flood-damaged Jacksons Creek footbridge in Gisborne.

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Council turns to community to drive towns’ future

11-08-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council is seeking volunteers to join a Community Engagement Pool to provide input into the future of the shire’s townships.

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Macedon Ranges shire council July meeting snapshot

08-08-2023

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council has endorsed several significant items at its recent July scheduled meeting.

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Locals invited to join International Women’s Day Advisory Committee.

27-07-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council is looking for community members to join its Heather Mutimer International Women's Day Advisory Committee.

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Hepburn awards $500,000 road patching contract

26-07-2023

Hepburn Shire Council says it's continuing to invest in roads across the shire with a $500,000 road patching contract awarded at its Ordinary Meeting last week.

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Time running out for community input on draft Sponsorship Policy

25-07-2023

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council is inviting community input in response to its draft Sponsorship Policy.

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Free COVID tests in Hepburn Shire

24-07-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council has free rapid antigen tests (RATs) available for the community and is making them freely available to collect.

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Still no satisfaction

20-07-2023

Hepburn Shire Council residents still can't get no satisfaction with the performance of council, according to the annual JWS Research Victorian Community Satisfaction Survey.

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Council responds to Commonwealth Games cancellation

24-07-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council is "disappointed" at the recent shock decision by the Victorian Government to cancel the 2026 Commonwealth Games.

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The Local Podcast July 17, 2023

16-07-2023

The Local crew talk about what to expect in the upcoming edition of The Local

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Booked: council launches new system for booking its venues

12-07-2023

Booking a council-managed venue to hold an event within the in Hepburn shire has become easier to do following this month's launch of a new booking system, the council says.

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Woodend Customer Service Centre to stay open

11-07-2023

The Woodend Customer Service Centre for Macedon Ranges Shire Council will remain open, but with altered hours, following a decision at the council's recent scheduled June meeting.

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Slightly bigger bickies up for grabs under council’s small projects grants review

11-07-2023

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council has adopted a new set of Small Project Grants program guidelines in recent days, in a move that could potentially double the dollars for community projects.

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Councillors endorse new disability action plan

11-07-2023

Local councillors with the Macedon Ranges Shire Council have pitched their support behind a new disability action plan.

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New outdoor dining and trading policy impacts local eateries

10-07-2023

Businesses in Hepburn Shire will need to comply with a new Outdoor Dining and Trading Policy, which guides what furniture can be placed along local council-owned and managed footpaths, roads and land.

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Positive ageing expo to be hosted by Hepburn shire

10-07-2023

Hepburn Shire Council will host an expo for members of the community aged 55+ to create connections and expand their knowledge of positive ageing.

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Focus on completing capital works as council adopts $59Million budget

06-07-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council has adopted a $59 million budget for 2023/2024, with investment focused on completing major capital works and delivering services to the community.

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Backyard banjos headed to The Palais

03-07-2023

The Backyard Banjo Club are a five-piece trad-jazz/bluegrass bonanza and they're headed to The Palais, Hepburn to strut their stuff, Saturday night July 22.

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Unanimous: local council adopts new climate strategy

02-07-2023

Mount Alexander Shire Councillors have unanimously endorsed adoption of the council’s new Climate Change Strategy at the council's recent scheduled June meeting.

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The Local Podcast for the July 3 edition

01-07-2023

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Hepburn shire’s cat curfew to start from July 1

28-06-2023

Cat owners in Hepburn Shire must keep their cats securely confined within their property between sunset and sunrise from 1 July 2023.

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Rocky roads? council receives ‘quite a few calls’

25-06-2023

The Hepburn shire Council says it's receiving "quite a few calls" to report issues with roads and appreciates the feedback.

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The ‘Rat stepping up to help tackle climate

21-06-2023

Ballarat businesses and organisations are joining the City of Ballarat in working to reduce carbon emissions to address climate change, the Ballarat City Council says.

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Go circular? local businesses say ‘yes’

07-06-2023

A survey of the local business community in Hepburn Shire suggests a high readiness to implement circular economy strategies, the local council says.

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Helping low income local households to reach for the sun

06-06-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council says it's making solar power more accessible to low-income households through the Solar Savers program.

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Thoughts of today needed to help protect heritage for the future

05-06-2023

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council is reviewing its Heritage Strategy and is inviting the local community to provide input.

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Council to ‘advocate strongly’ for alternative VNI West route as ‘concerns’ remain

04-06-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council will continue to 'advocate strongly' for an alternative to the route currently preferred for the Victoria New South Wales Interconnector West (VNI West) project, mayor Cr Brian Hood says.

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A little help to de-tox the home, free event at Daylesford

03-06-2023

Hepburn shire locals are about to get a little help and added incentive to clean out those unwanted household chemicals from their sheds, cupboards and under their sinks and dispose of them safely at Sustainability Victoria’s free Detox your Home event.

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Award for acknowledging Aboriginal Frontier Wars fought

03-06-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council has won two awards, including one for its work towards acknowledging the Indigenous Frontier Wars.

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Get cracking to clinch a biodiversity grant

03-05-2023

Time is running out to apply for a grant through the Hepburn Shire Council to help conserve biodiversity in the shire.

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Road works in Creswick North, Lawrence up next

03-06-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council has reported that works are being carried out to improve the road pavement and drainage along the West Berry Road in Creswick North.

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Goldfields libraries agreement gets nod from council

02-06-2023

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council has given the thumbs up to a new 12-month funding agreement with Goldfields Library Corporation to continue library services across the shire.

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Taking the crap factor out of nappies: reusable workshops coming soon

02-06-2023

If you're among the legion of people who cringe at the sight of discarded, soiled, disposable infants' nappies dumped in public places, you'll no doubt be pleased to hear that the Hepburn Shire Council says it will soon be announcing some reusable nappy workshops.

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Chance to help shape the future for Ross Watt Reserve

01-06-2023

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council is inviting community feedback to help shape the future direction of the Ross Watt Reserve in New Gisborne.

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Single use plastic gets the chop at Macedon Ranges

01-06-2023

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council has adopted a new Single-use Plastic Policy, among a number of significant decisions made by the councillors at last Thursday night’s May council meeting.

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Funding to reopen the Romsey-Lancefield Federation Trail

01-06-2023

Repairs will be carried out enabling the reopening of the Romsey-Lancefield Federation Trail following a decision by the Macedon Ranges Shire Council at its May meeting last Thursday.

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Dealing with storm waste the excellent way: flagship facility gets a gong

31-05-2023

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council’s flagship storm waste facility near Romsey has won its second award, having taken out the Special Projects Initiative category at the 2023 LGPro Awards for Excellence in recent days.

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Chance to shape the future of Hepburn shire’s towns

30-05-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council is inviting the community to provide feedback and ideas on the future of townships around the shire as it develops township structure plans for Clunes, Creswick, Daylesford and Hepburn Springs, Glenlyon and Trentham.

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Cat curfew soon comes in for Hepburn shire

27-05-2023

Hepburn Shire Council is bringing in a dusk to dawn cat curfew enforceable from 1 July 2023. From that date cats must be securely confined to the owner’s property between sunset and sunrise.

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Hepburn shire releases $59.10 million draft budget for feedback

25-05-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council has released its $59.10 million draft budget for 2023-24, which is now open for community feedback.

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Community conversation sessions scheduled for Hepburn Shire residents

20-05-2023

Hepburn Shire residents with burning issues on their chest are about to get several prime opportunities to air them.

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Best get trotting if you want a say on local equestrian facilities

20-05-2023

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council will continue to receive public submissions to guide its community equestrian facilities plan up to May 28.

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Council awards funds for wide range of community-led projects

20-05-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council has awarded $25,320 to support community-led projects in the latest round of funding through its community grants program.

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Public input invited on Gisborne’s Willowbank Road proposal

19-05-2023

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council is inviting community feedback on a combined planning scheme amendment and planning application that would see a long-envisaged development of commercial land on Willowbank Road to service the needs of residents in Gisborne’s south.

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Chance to help guide the future of Woodend racecourse reserve

19-05-2023

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council is preparing a master plan to guide the future management of the Woodend Racecourse Reserve and will continue to receive public input up to May 28.

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Chance to stand out from the crowd for Macedon Ranges youth

18-05-2023

Nominations are now open for the 2023 Macedon Ranges Youth Awards to help recognise the amazing achievements of young people in the shire.

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Clunes’ organics trial looks a winner

15-05-2023

A pilot project to trial weekly kerbside collection of food organics and garden organics in Clunes has been hailed as a "great success".

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Clunes outdoor fitness pod installed and ready to use

07-05-2023

Locals and visitors hoping to keep fit and healthy at Clunes just got a little added incentive.

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How have you wheely bin?

06-05-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council is running a public survey in an effort to understand how shire residents are using their bins.

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Work on Creswick Creek

06-05-2023

Work has been underway in Creswick in recent days to clear silt and debris from Creswick Creek, with more work along the creek planned in coming weeks.

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Chance for locals to shape future rural land use in Hepburn Shire

05-05-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council is inviting residents to have a say on what's important about the shire's rural areas, what should be protected and enhanced through future planning measures.

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Locals get chance for say on council customer service

05-05-2023

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council is inviting public feedback on its Customer Service Centres review.

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Council says ‘no’ to fire station relocation plan

05-05-2023

Macedon Ranges Shire councillors have decided not to proceed with a Country Fire Authority (CFA) proposal to relocate the Riddells Creek Fire Station to Riddells Creek Recreational Reserve.

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Chance to have a say on Macedon Ranges 2023/24 budget and council plan

04-05-2023

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council is inviting feedback on two annual documents that highlight proposed funding for essential services and other initiatives in 2023/24.

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Chance for input on local affordable housing

04-05-2023

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council says it will now invite public feedback on its draft Affordable Housing Policy following its recent April scheduled meeting.

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Council grants now up for grabs

03-05-2023

Local community groups and organisations with a community-driven project or event idea are invited to apply for funding through the Macedon Ranges Shire Council’s annual grants programs.

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Councils to join forces, grow tourism

02-05-2023

Hepburn Shire Council has endorsed joining a Visitor Economy Partnership with neighbouring councils in Ballarat, Moorabool, Pyrenees and Golden Plains, along with representatives from the tourism industry and the Victorian Government to boost tourism to the region.

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Local land use planning responding to climate risks, chance for input

02-05-2023

Hepburn Shire Council is developing an Agricultural Land and Rural Settlement Strategy, the first of its strategic planning projects that make up Future Hepburn.

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Affordable sustainability workshops on the program at Trentham Neighbourhood Centre

22-04-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council is supporting the Trentham Neighbourhood Centre to hold a range of low-cost two-hour sustainability workshops.

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Concerns aired at Clunes listening post, next it’s Trentham’s turn

21-04-2023

From calls to lower speed limits on certain roads and bridges, to bright ideas to establish a new arboretum, this month's Clunes Listening Post has proved to be a good chance for many to air a wide range of concerns with Hepburn Shire councillors and staff.

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New community grants round opens

21-04-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council has announced that Round 4 of its community grants program is now open until Friday 28 April.

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Work paused amid voluntary administration for Lloyd Group

19-04-2023

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council has confirmed that work has paused on the Macedon Ranges Regional Sports Precinct (MRRSP) as a result of the Lloyd Group going into voluntary administration.

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Support for transgender and gender diverse Victorians

16-04-2023

The state government is supporting transgender and gender diverse Victorians, their families and carers, with funding to expand access to vital mental health and support services.

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Neighbours Connect card aims to strenthen community ties

12-04-2023

If the power, internet and mobile reception were out because of a natural disaster - who would you turn to first? Most likely it would be your neighbour.

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Reusable product rebate launches to further reduce landfill

11-04-2023

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council is launching a reusable nappy, sanitary and incontinence product pilot rebate program to reduce waste in landfill and assist residents in accessing affordable reusable items.

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Improvements in store as new council community grants round opens

10-04-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council says it will deliver grants through a more efficient, equitable and transparent process under changes recommended in a recent review and adopted by Council at its March meeting.

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An alfresco question: outdoor dining and trading review

09-04-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council is reviewing its Outdoor Dining and Trading Policy and inviting public input from locals.

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Trans day of visibility

08-04-2023

Late last month - Friday March 31, Hepburn Shire Council raised the trans flag in Daylesford in recognition of Trans Day of Visibility.

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Electoral structure review

08-04-2023

Residents of Hepburn Shie are encouraged to have their say on the future electoral structure of Hepburn Shire Council, in response to the Victorian Electoral Commission releasing three preliminary options.

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Upgraded facilities opened at Creswick’s Calembeen Park

03-03-2023

If you need to 'spend a penny' or get changed for a swim or other sporty activity at Creswick's beautiful Calembeen Park then you will no doubt notice the facilities to hand have recently become quite a bit swankier than they use to be.

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Traffic measures for Macedon motorists

27-03-2023

A range of temporary traffic management measures will be in place in the Macedon Ranges shire throughout April, the council has warned motorists.

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Turning wreckage to salavage: innovative storm waste facility nominated for excellence award

25-03-2023

Macedon Ranges Shire Council’s flagship storm waste facility near Romsey has been nominated as a finalist in the 2023 LGPro Awards for Excellence.

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Hubba hubba hubba: works begins on the hub

24-03-2023

Progress towards the new Trentham community hub has picked up pace in recent days with sub-surface works beginning on the car park.

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From keeping chooks to energy efficient homes: a lowcost workshop for all tastes

24-03-2023

From keeping chooks in the backyard to grant writing a new series of free or low-cost community workshops offers something of interest just about everyone living in the Hepburn Shire.

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Chance to join council’s gender equity advisory committee

23-03-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council is seeking new members to join its Gender Equity Advisory Committee with locals urged to submit an EOI before the April 28 cut-off.

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Cracking pace set for Creswick’s new bike trail head: opening hoped for next month

23-03-2023

Creswick's Hamond Park Trail Head is expected to open next month - weather permiting - according to the Hepburn Shire Council's latest update on the project.

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Five new inductees added to the honour roll

22-03-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council has recently inducted five local women to the Heather Mutimer Honour Roll, paying tribute to their contribution to the Shire and progressing women’s causes.

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No excuses: Clunes gets new outdoor fitness equipment

23-03-2023

Clunes locals and visitors will soon have less excuse to delay exercise. The town is getting...

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Speak up: council urges community input on interconnector project

17-03-2023

As the April 5 deadline for submissions looms, The Hepburn Shire Council is urging the community to make a submission on the latest consultation report into the Victoria to New South Wales Interconnector West (VNI West) project.

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Chance to make a splash as council develops indoor aquatics vision

13-03-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council is keen to receive community input as it develops its Hepburn Shire Indoor Aquatics Provision Feasibility Study and Business Case.

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ChillOut 2023

12-03-2023

ChillOut 2023

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Crushed glass, recycled pavement used in Creswick road sealing trials

12-03-2023

Hepburn Shire Council has been trailling the use of crushed glass and recycled road pavement as asphalt additives for road sealing at two Creswick locations.

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Some hub help to tackle the hard-to-recycle bits

11-03-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council has moved to remind residents they can take their tricky-to-recycle items, including e-waste, to their closest Hepburn Shire Customer Service hub for recycling.

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Orbs and all: Creswick town hall repairs make pace

10-03-2023

Hepburn Shire Council says repairs to the Creswick Town Hall are progressing well, with recent fine weather providing ideal conditions for masonry and render restoration to the building exterior, along with replacement of roofing and spouting sections.

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War on waste continues with four-bin system

09-03-2023

The Macedon Ranges Shire says its war on waste will continue full steam ahead as it celebrates the third year of its four-bin system

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Interconnector West update

05-03-2023

An additional consultation report into the Victoria to New South Wales Interconnector West project has been released in recent days by the Australian Energy Market Operator and Transgrid.

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New plan aims to remove barriers

04-03-2023

Hepburn Shire Council has a new Disability Action Plan that will guide its actions in removing barriers and making adjustments to help provide an equitable experience for people living with disability.

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King Charles portrain now in situ, Daylesford Town Hall

20-02-2023

Hepburn Shire Council has replaced a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II with King Charles III in the Daylesford Town Hall.

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Victoria Park home to the Big Rainbow

15-02-2023

DAYLESFORD’S Victoria Park has been chosen as the site of Tinder’s Big Rainbow...

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Supporting small businesses with workshops and webinars

11-02-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council are partnering with Business Victoria to provide the first free small business face-to-face workshops for 2023.

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New supermarket a step closer for Romsey

09-02-2023

The Macedon Ranges Shire council has conditionally approved a new supermarket and shop on Main Street in Romsey, with a permit subject to the formal planning process concluding.

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Social housing upgrade proposed for Lancefield

09-02-2023

The Macedon Ranges Shire Council is proposing a new 12-unit development in partnership with Homes Victoria and Wintringham Housing Limited in Lancefield to upgrade existing social housing and support more of the Macedon Ranges’ most vulnerable residents.

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Keep your cool: a plan to contend with climage change

09-02-2023

The community is being invited to the official launch of Cool-ER Changesat Kyneton Town Hall on Thursday 2 March from 7pm –8:30pm, to celebrate "tangible climate action already underway" in the shire and outline the vision for further action into the future.

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Electronic items now sold at tip shop in circular economy move

07-02-2023

As of yesterday, safe electronic items are now available for sale through the Daylesford Transfer Station tip shop.

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Fences up for dog park trial at Trentham

07-02-2023

Fences are now in place for the trial off-lead dog park in Trentham.

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Prime chance for input on art and culture

07-02-2023

If you've got a few thoughts on the future of art and culture throughout the Hepburn Shire area, now's your chance to make those thoughts known to the local council.

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‘That investigation’… a brief update

06-02-2023

With The Rex now in private hands, The Local has in recent days asked the Local Government Inspectorate what's happening in relation to Hepburn Shire Council and the investigation into purchase of the Daylesford building in 2016.

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Councils subject to electoral structure review this year

06-02-2023

Throughout 2023–24, 39 Victorian local councils will undergo electoral structure reviews, with round one reviews for 12 rural shire councils, including Hepburn, Moorabool, Central Goldfields and Mt Alexander shire councils, beginning in recent days.

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Community Awards recipients announced

01-02-2023

HUMBLED and “a bit surprised” is the way farmer John Drife describes discovering he’s this year’s Hepburn Shire Citizen of the Year.

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New citizens welcomed to Hepburn Shire

02-02-2023

Twenty-one people took the pledge to become Australian citizens at Hepburn Shire Council's civic event last Wednesday, January 25.

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Cracked! Ground-breaking tech helps assess our flood ravaged roads

22-01-2023

World-first technology, developed in Denmark, is being used to assess the condition of the Victoria’s flood-ravaged roads.

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Somewhere over the rainbow: Big Rainbow’s location remains a mystery

21-01-2023

The Big Rainbow's final location remains a mystery.

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Dollars secured to help live the life al fresco

11-01-2023

The Hepburn Shire Council has confirmed it's secured a handy $300,000 from the state government to help local businesses provide outdoor furniture and inject mre life into its streetscapes.

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A date to celebrate our community minded winners

11-01-2023

Residents throughout the length and bredth of Hepburn Shire are being invited to attend an upcoming free community event to congratulate the shire's community award winner for 2023 - and welcome its newest citizens.

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Don’t sell The Rex

05-01-2023

In our April 11 edition, we reported on a group, Rethink The Rex, calling on Hepburn Shire Council to change its mind about the Daylesford building.

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Council now inviting response to the draft disability action plan

29-12-2022

The Hepburn Shire's new draft Disability Action Plan is now open for public review and response.

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Dealing with those long summer days: school holiday activities scheduled

30-12-2022

The Macedon Ranges Council is inviting all young people aged between 12 and 25 to supercharge their summer holidays by participating in its 2023 Youth Holiday Program.

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Local groups share in $11,000+

29-12-2022

Hepburn Shire councillors endorsed giving community grant funding totalling over $11,987.91 to local groups under round two of the council’s Community Grants Program for 2022/23, during the council's recent December ordinary meeting.

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Macedon tackles carbon footprint, urges others to follow suit.

25-12-2022

A plan will see Macedon Ranges Shire Council reduce its carbon footprint with a series of initiatives across council-managed facilities and operations.

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Packaged liquor licence granted for Central Springs Road

24-12-2022

Dan Murphy's application for a packaged liquor licence at 63 Central Springs Road, Daylesford has been granted.

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Multi-lot subdivision application lodged for site opposite Farmers Arms