Local News
Council Launches Reconciliation Action Plan During NAIDOC Week
Hepburn Shire Council will officially launch its INNOVATE Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) during NAIDOC Week 2025 — a time to honour the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Should we Close the Daylesford Beaches and Hunt Down the Shark?
It’s nearly the fourth of July and ‘Jaws’ is turning 50. The film contrasts the social and economic conflict for Amity and is an entertaining allegory for Daylesford which faces similar conflicts between including over development and prosperity.
Rotary Continues Generous Support for Local and Overseas Projects
Daylesford Rotary has been serving the community since 1953 and is the only remaining Service Club in Daylesford. During 2024-2025 Daylesford Rotary donated just over $29,000 to local and overseas projects and causes.
Western Renewables Link EES on Public Exhibition — Council Urges Community to Have Their Say
The long-awaited Environmental Effects Statement (EES) for the Western Renewables Link (WRL) has been released for public exhibition, with submissions open until 12 August 2025. Hepburn Shire Council is urging community members to review the documents and make a submission during this critical consultation period.
New Lighting for Victoria Park to Boost Local Sport and Community Participation
The soccer field at Victoria Park in Daylesford is set for a major upgrade, with the installation of new lighting funded through the Victorian Government’s Regional Community Sports Infrastructure Fund.
Council Adopts Strategic Plans Amid Budget Constraints and Service Cuts
Hepburn Shire Council has formally adopted its key strategic planning documents for the next four years, including the Council Plan 2025–2029 (incorporating the Municipal Health and Wellbeing Plan), the 2025/26 Budget, and a suite of financial and asset planning documents.
New Free Service to Help Resolve Rental Disputes
Victorian renters and landlords now have access to a new service aimed at resolving common rental disputes quickly and informally. Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria (RDRV), a free service launched this week, provides an alternative pathway to settle issues such as bond disagreements, compensation claims, repair requests and rent increases.
One Good Month of Rain Does Not Break a Drought
June rainfall of 110.8mm was just above the long-term average of 106mm for Daylesford according to the Bureau of Meteorology. The Bureau expects July to be drier than average with August to September hopefully closer to normal rainfall. Central Highlands Water has introduced water restrictions because of low reservoir levels.
Community Comes Together to Distribute Generous Donation from Chemist Warehouse
The Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre (DNC) was a hive of activity this week following the arrival of a generous donation of health and hygiene products from Chemist Warehouse for distribution to needy individuals and community organisations.
Work Underway on Upgrade to Daylesford Water Treatment Plant
Work is now underway on the final stage of a major upgrade to Daylesford’s water supply system, marking a significant step towards securing the long-term water needs of the Daylesford and Hepburn region.