Local News
Walk for Reconciliation
Australians are being urged to walk for reconciliation and justice to support National Reconciliation Week. This year National Reconciliation Week is from May 27 to June. This year’s theme is “Bridging Now to Next”. It is 25 years since a quarter of a million people...
New Emergency Services Levy to Impact Hepburn Shire Ratepayers
The Victorian Government has legislated a new Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF), set to take effect from 1 July 2025. This levy will replace the current Fire Services Property Levy (FSPL). For rate payers in Hepburn Shire, the increase comes hard on the heels of a10% increase in rates approved last week by the Essential Services Commission.
Daylesford-Hepburn Property Market Shows Signs of Stabilising After Pandemic Surge
After several years of volatile growth, new data suggests the property markets in Daylesford and Hepburn Springs may be entering a phase of stabilisation. The COVID-era migration from metropolitan areas and a sharp increase in demand for regional properties fuelled unrealistic market expectations. Conditions have cooled and several newly introduced property-related taxes have subdued investor interest, particularly in the holiday rental segment which was once a major driver of local property demand.
Farmers in Hepburn Shire to Benefit from Expanded Victorian Drought Support Package
Farmers in Hepburn Shire are set to benefit from a significant expansion of the Victorian Government’s drought support, with an additional $15.9 million committed to assist those affected by prolonged dry conditions and challenging seasonal forecasts.
Hepburn Shire Council Releases Draft Budget with Rate Increase and Service Reductions
Hepburn Shire Council has released its draft Budget for 2025/26, outlining a strategy to address ongoing financial challenges through a combination of increased rates and substantial operational savings. The draft documents, which include the Council Plan, Financial Plan, Revenue and Rating Plan, and Asset Plan, are now open for public consultation until 5 June.
Blue Trees and Youth Mental Health
The Blue Tree Project is a grassroots mental health initiative, one of several in the Shire. Youth Mental Health First Aid, the Blue Tree Project and Live4Life aim to address mental health challenges by promoting awareness and equipping community members with the skills to support young people in need.
Celebrating National Volunteer Week 2025: Embracing New Trends in Volunteering
National Volunteer Week 2025, celebrated from 19 to 25 May, is a time to recognise the essential role that volunteers play in building strong, connected communities. This year’s theme, “Connecting Communities”, reflects the powerful impact of collective action and civic participation across Australia.
Council Seeks Community Feedback on Council Plan
Hepburn Shire Council is inviting community feedback on a suite of draft strategic documents that will shape the future of the Shire, including the draft Council Plan 2025–29.
More Local Properties Available and Prices Softening
Over the last three months, there was a significant increase in properties for sale in Daylesford and surrounding districts. The number of houses for sale increased by nearly 15% to 156, up from 136. The increase from February saw the number of properties offered...
Live4Life Launches Hepburn Crew at Daylesford College
Live4Life Hepburn introduced the members of the 2025 Crew with a memorable launch event at Daylesford College on Friday May 9. Live4Lfe, spans both suicide prevention and mental health/wellbeing education and Live4Life is the only program of its kind designed specifically for rural and regional areas.