Local News
ESC Approves Council’s Application for a 10% Rate Increase for 2025–26
Hepburn Shire Council has received approval from the Essential Services Commission (ESC) for a 10 per cent rate rise in 2025–26—comprising the state-imposed 3 per cent cap plus a 7 per cent variation sought by Council to address what has been described as an “unsustainable financial position.”
Green Hydrogen: From Hype to Disillusionment to Enlightenment
Last week at the Daylesford Conversations series, Chris Rowland delivered an engaging presentation titled “Green Hydrogen: the fuel of the future – but will the future ever arrive?” The event, hosted by the Rotary Club of Daylesford and The Wombat Post, sparked lively discussion leaving the audience both informed and hopeful about the role hydrogen could play in our collective green energy future.
Winter Warmth Call Out – Notes from the DNC
As the cold sets in, many in our community are facing winter without the basics to stay warm. The DNC collecting and distributing winter essentials to support those feeling the cold. If you’ve got something useful tucked away in a cupboard, your contribution would be welcome.
Healthy Daylesford: Maintaining and Improving Balance for Healthy Ageing
Balance is an essential aspect of human function, allowing us to perform everyday tasks, engage in physical activity, and enjoy an active lifestyle. As we age, balance can become compromised, leading to an increased risk of falls, but exercise strategies are effective in improving balance and reducing falls risk.
Nature Diary: The (Not So) Grey Goshawk
Tanya Loos One of our smaller and rarely seen birds of prey locally is the Grey Goshawk – a funny name as here in Victoria we are very lucky to have the white colour form or ‘morph’. The white morph Grey Goswhak would have to be one of the most beautiful of raptors –...
Council Tightens Belt, Boosts Surplus in Latest Quarterly Financial Report
The latest quarterly finance report considered by Council at their April meeting reveals a significant improvement in the Shire’s financial position, with strong cost savings delivering a healthy budget surplus and improved cash reserves — a welcome change from the $2.1 million forecast deficit.
Fire Restrictions Lifted in Hepburn Shire, But Caution Still Urged
The Fire Danger Period (FDP) for Hepburn Shire has officially ended, allowing residents to resume permitted burning activities. However, authorities are urging the community to remain cautious, as much of the shire’s forested areas remain extremely dry.
Daylesford Earns Respect in Hard-Fought Battles Against Maryborough
The Daylesford Division 1 and Division 2 teams went into the weekend’s matchups against Maryborough with high hopes but came away short in Division 2 and a draw in Division 1.
Council Adopts New Onsite Wastewater Management Plan 2025–2029
Hepburn Shire Council has formally adopted the Onsite Wastewater Management Plan (OWMP) 2025–2029, replacing the decade-old Domestic Wastewater Management Plan from 2014. The adoption marks a significant step in modernising the Council’s approach to wastewater regulation in line with updated state legislation and environmental protections.
Daylesford Reservoirs Well Down and Little Rain on the Horizon
Total rainfall for April was a miserly 24.8mm only 39% of the 64.1mm long term average. The dry weather has depleted Daylesford water supplies to 43% of capacity. And the forecast is for dry conditions to continue.