Local News
Emergency Services Levy Causes Concerns for Local Residents and Farmers
From July 1, 2025, a new Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF) levy will be introduced across Victoria, replacing the former Fire Services Property Levy (FSPL). While the new levy broadens funding for emergency services beyond fire response, it has generated widespread concern for Hepburn Shire residents already facing a hefty increase in rates.
Shaping the Future of Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve: Community Voices Needed
Hepburn Shire Council has begun the first stage of consultation to help shape a new masterplan for the Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve—and local residents are being urged to get involved.
Council launches INNOVATE Reconciliation Action Plan
Hepburn Shire Council has launched its Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), marking a significant milestone in its reconciliation journey and deepening its partnership with the Dja Dja Wurrung people, the Traditional Owners of the region.
Healthy Daylesford: Reflections on Wisdom
Claire Taubert It is no secret that as we grow older, our physical health and capacity change—and in some cases decline. Interestingly, our mental health often improves. Measures of contentedness, happiness and well-being increase over the lifespan, despite a decrease...
Big Battery Arrives on Leonard’s Hill
Hepburn Energy's 5MWh community battery, "Bessie", arrived last Friday. Bessie is co-located with the wind turbines Gusto and Gale on Leonard's Hill, just outside Daylesford, and is located just below Gale. It has a capacity equivalent to around 400 household...
Look Out! Kangaroo!
Tanya Loos I am driving a rental car at the moment while my Corolla is at the smash repairs in Castlemaine. Unfortunately they know me well - this is the fourth time they have replaced the front part of my car due to "road strike", "wildlife collision", "car strike" –...
Wombat Hill Tower and Basin Renovations Underway
The renovation of the tower and water basin at the top of the Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens is finally underway. Vistors to the Gardens who park at the top, will see the ongoing construction work as they wind their way through to the Cafe and other amenities. Initiated...
Hobsons Bay Council Vows Cultural Reform After Damning Internal Review
Hobsons Bay City Council has released a confronting report detailing serious cultural and organisational issues following an independent Listening and Support Process involving 138 staff. The review was triggered after allegations raised with councillors led to the...
Stone Soup: A Story of Sharing – Notes From the DNC
Once upon a time, a weary traveller arrived in a small village carrying nothing but an empty pot and a smooth stone in his pocket. The village, having fallen on hard times, was quiet and cautious. People kept to themselves, convinced they had nothing to...
Survey Shows Mixed Results for Hepburn Shire Council as Community Satisfaction Slips
Hepburn Shire Council has received the results of the 2025 Local Government Community Satisfaction Survey, with data revealing a decline in overall community satisfaction and notable differences between Hepburn and other small rural councils across Victoria. The...