Local News
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...
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...
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.