The South West Daily

Here is what is making news for July 29, 2026.====================================Following the announcement of Ben Carroll  as the new Victorian Premier, Member for Polwarth Richard Riordan says little will change locally.Mr Riordan says the similar issues from Jacinta Allan's tenure apply.========================================================================Local C-F-A brigades have formally recognised the Gellibrand Hotel and its owner for their significant support during the recent Otways fire campaign.Members of the Corangamite Group recently held an appreciation dinner at the venue, where captains from the Gellibrand, Kawarren, and Carlisle River brigades presented owner Dorthe Koorn with a token of gratitude. ========================================================================Preparations are well and truly underway for Colac Rifle Club Shooter James Hay who has the 25 and Under F Class Open Championships in a fortnight.Hay has also been appointed to the inaugural National Rifle Association of Australia committee ahead up the upcoming Championships.========================================================================Kirsten Diprose has been appointed as the new Board Chair for South West TAFE, replacing Brian Crook.The communications specialist and farmer is the first chair to progress from the organisation's Observership Program, having joined the board in twenty-twenty-one.Diprose says the region faces a critical need for trades and essential workers in health and agriculture. ========================================================================Opening in less than three weeks, the Red Door Theatre Company's Colac production of And Juliet is nearing capacity.The Theatre Company's Zoe Hudgell says more than 70 percent of the shows tickets have already sold out.========================================================================Following the resignation of Jacinta Allan yesterday, the Victorian Labor Party has announced Deputy Ben Carroll as its new leader ahead of the upcoming State Election.Under Allan's tenure, the region saw major local investments, including the one hundred and twenty-six million dollar Twelve Apostles Centre and the Great Ocean Road Regional Trails Strategy twenty-twenty-five to twenty-thirty-five.========================================================================AND IN SPORTThe Geelong Falcons have announced their twenty-twenty-six V-Line Cup squads, featuring players from twenty-one community clubs.The matches will take place in Gippsland during the school holidays, from September twenty-first to twenty-third.Irrewarra-Beeac's Baxter Dewar and Colac Tigers' Manny Robb, Ted Hay, and Fred Melville have all been selected for the same boys' team.Meanwhile, Colac product and St Mary’s footballer Astin McCimmon was picked for the women’s squad.========================================================================Lorne footballer Kai Enticott will serve a two-week suspension following a dangerous tackle on Irrewarra-Beeac's Lachie Farr.Enticott initially faced a three-week ban, but the penalty was reduced after Lorne accepted an early guilty plea.========================================================================Colac Gun Club Shooter Penny Smith has wrapped up the 2026 ISSF Senior World Cup Trap Final in Hangzou, China.Smith finished fourth with a total of 18 in the Women's Trap Final.====================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for July 27, 2026.===============================The Colac Otway Rotary Club is organising a Walk for Respect to raise awareness about domestic violence. The community event will take place this October.==============================================================A new housing development offering 320 residential lots was unveiled in Elliminyt.Colac Otway Shire CEO Andrew Tenni says 'The Lookouts' already showed Strong Sales as it enters Stage 1.==============================================================A forty-three-year-old local man has avoided a criminal conviction in the Colac Magistrates Court after pleading guilty to harassing his ex-wife.The court heard the man made over one hundred and thirty calls in a single day, alongside previous unwanted contact. ==============================================================A two hundred and sixty-eight acre farming property has been listed for sale at nine-ninety-nine Centre Road in Cooriemungle.Marketed by real estate agency Charles Stewart, the agricultural enterprise features a fifty-unit rotary dairy, forty-five paddocks, and a four-bedroom family home with separate farm access. ==============================================================Wannon MP Dan Tehan has criticised Energy Minister Chris Bowen over a massive cost blowout in a federal home battery program.What started as a two-point-three billion dollar scheme has skyrocketed to over eight billion dollars.==============================================================Lorne S-E-S volunteers joined emergency service partners over the weekend following a vehicle accident on Deans Marsh Road.The incident was resolved safely through a coordinated multi-agency effort.Lorne S-E-S thanked motorists for their patience while crews worked at the scene. ==============================================================South West TAFE has been named a finalist for a major state honour, continuing a run of award recognition spanning almost a decade.The institution is one of three contenders shortlisted for Victoria's Large Training Provider of the Year at the twenty-twenty-six Victorian Training Awards.Chief Executive Officer Mark Fidge says the nomination provides significant recognition for the Colac and South West community.==============================================================AND IN SPORTColac Tigers product Will McLachlan enjoyed a day out for the Brisbane Lions VFL side against North Melbourne.McLachlan kicked 8 straight along with 17 disposals in the Lions 13 point win. ==============================================================Both the regions Hampden League football teams had a difficult weekend with Cobden going down to North Warrnambool by 36 points.Camperdown lost to Koroit by 11 points.Cobden had a win over on the netball court by 25 against North Warrnambool but Camperdown went down by 66 to Koroit.==============================================================The Colac Tigers footballers had a much needed win against Leopold over the weekend with the 21 point win keeping them in touch with the final five.Luke Hillman kicked five goals and Jack Skinner was named Colac's best.Over on the netball court the Tigers also had a 3 goal win.==============================================================The weekend's Colac and District Football saw several big results across the weekend.Colac Imperials won by 58 on the football field against Apollo Bay.South Colac beat Western Eagles by 17.Birregurra beat Otway Districts by 55.Lorne held off Irrewarra by 27 points.AND Alvie smashed Simpson by 63.In the CDFNL's netball fixtures South Colac was too strong for the Western Eagles/Birregurra beat Otway Districts.Colac Imperials smashed Apollo Bay.Irrewarra-Beeac defeated Lorne.And Simpson had a 5 goal win against Alvie.===============================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for July 24, 2026.==================================Colac sports clubs were targeted in recent break-ins.Colac Police Sergeant Michelle Delaney says while nothing of value was stolen, the incidents have caused significant disruption and inconvenience for local volunteers.====================================================================Tickets are on sale now for the Corangamite Year 12 Winter Ball.Corangamite Shire Mayor Kate Makin says the August 14 event is open to all Corangamite Shire Year 12 students across the region.====================================================================Community feedback is being sought by the Colac Otway Shire Council for the Apollo Bay Structure Plan review, guiding future development across Apollo Bay, Marengo, and Skenes Creek.====================================================================Colac’s Find Your Light Choir and Lake Colac Specialist School has teamed up with the Find Your Voice Collective to present Mad Dogs & Englishmen.The performance is a large-scale community music project inspired by Joe Cocker's legendary live album.====================================================================Colac and District Football Netball League clubs will join more than a thousand teams across Victoria this weekend to support the T-A-C and A-F-L Victoria Road Safety Round.T-A-C Chief Executive Tracey Slatter says the initiative honours people impacted by road trauma while promoting safer driving behaviours across regional communities.====================================================================Wildlife wonders in Apollo Bay is gearing up to celebrate National Science Week by offering two fantastic opportunities for environmentally curious kids.From Saturday, August 15 to Sunday, August 23, all children can join a 75-minute Walk with Wildlife tour completely free of charge when accompanied by a paying adult.====================================================================AND IN SPORTIn this weekends Colac and District football and netball action, the Colac Imperials travel to Apollo Bay.The Western Eagles host South Colac.Birregurra faces Otway Districts.Lorne will do battle with Irrewarra-Beeac.AND Simpson versus Alvie.====================================================================In this weekends Geelong Football and Netball League Action - the Colac Tigers football season is one the line with a huge match up at home against Leopold.A win on the netball court would catapult the Tigers into final contention.====================================================================In this weekends Hampden League action - our local teams each face massive tests.Cobden travels to North Warrnambool to take on the Eagles.And Camperdown will play Koroit.==================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for July 23, 2026.=================================Today Member for Wannon Dan Tehan will be in the Corangamite Shire visiting small businesses during the parliamentary recessMr Tehan says he will visit  his listening posts in Timboon, Cobden, Camperdown and finishing in Terang ==================================================================The first stage of the Apollo Bay Surf Lifesaving Club's redevelopment is complete.Community members are invited to view the new facilities during a public barbecue.The local event commences at eleven a-m on Saturday, August twenty-ninth.==================================================================Little Galaxias, also known as Dwarf Galaxias, have been discovered in the West Barwon River for the first time in recorded history.==================================================================The National Disability Insurance Scheme is facing criticism over its local service provisions in Colac.Advocates are calling for an increase in social and disability support housing across the region.The ongoing concerns follow recent reports of a local retiree unable to continue providing adequate care for a family member with a severe disability.The N-D-I-S recently denied a care facility placement for a man whose ongoing assistance requirements had been clearly documented.==================================================================The Upper Barwon River's animals and biodiversity is a key priority for the Corangamite Catchment in the most recent Victorian Enviromental Water Holder Seasonal Watering Plan for 2026-27.Recommendations include improving the breeding and recruitment of various fish, platypus and waterbug species.Focuses will also be on optimising water flow, floodplain vegetation, and the condition of the South West's resilience in dry conditions.==================================================================The Environment Protection Authority is reminding dairy farmers in Colac Otway and Corangamite regions to check effluent systems after heavy rainfall across the winter months.EPA Southwest Regional Manager Martha-Rose Loughnane says winter conditions could put extra pressure on effluent systems and increase the risk of pollution if local farms are not prepared.==================================================================Emerging musicians aged twelve to twenty-five are being encouraged to perform at upcoming regional events by the Corangamite Shire Council. ==================================================================AND IN SPORTApollo Bay Surf Lifesaving Club members Calden and Evelyn Lyons have been named finalists in the 2026 Life Saving Victoria Awards of Excellence.The Awards night will be held in Albert Park in Melbourne next month.==================================================================In this weekends Colac Braves Baseball fixtures, the Division 1 side will host the Werribee Giants at Eastern Reserve.The Division 3 side has the bye this weekend.==================================================================In this weekends soccer fixtures the Colac Otway Rovers Senior fixtures see the women's side face the Bellarine Sharks on Saturday.The Rovers senior men's side lines up against Corio SC, and the reserves plays Surf Coast FC.In the Corangamite Lions weekend matches the Lions will travel to Daylesford and Hepburn United.=================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for July 22, 2026.=================================The Colac community is invited to the opening of the Colac Neighbourhood House which will take place on Thursday July 30th.Colac Area Health CEO Fiona Brew says the grand opening will feature a free barbecue, and an opportunity to discover the wide range of activities, services and support the facility offers.==================================================================The Cobden Uniting Church Opportunity Shop has been forced to spend $2000 on security cameras due to a rise in theft and rule breakers.A Facebook post made on July 18th says the overwhelming support from the community has been overshadowed by excessive poor behaviour and theft.The post says the poor behaviour forced the op shop to spend thousands on new equipment and highlights how the group pours its heart into the work to support the community.==================================================================Farmsafe Australia is working with Colac Otway and Corangamite residents to demonstrate safe, practical agricultural practices.Executive Officer Stevi Howdle told Ace Radio's Country Today program that the agriculture industry records a disproportionate number of fatalities compared to other trades, with statistics showing a farm accident claims an Australian life every six days.==================================================================Recruitment is officially underway for people to help manage Victoria’s iconic Twelve Apostles, with the new $126 million dollar Visitor Centre to be opened later this year.==================================================================Mental Health advocate Warren Davies, also known as the Unbreakable Farmer will share disaster recovery tips with the Skipton and Laralea communities over a steak dinner.=================================================================='Colac Rifle Club shooter James Hay will represent Australia in the World F-Class Championship in Bisley, UK next month.The World Championships features Six days of practice sessions, warm-up matches, and team preparations and three days of individual competition followed by international team matches.==================================================================AND IN SPORTSeveral regional junior cricketers have been selected for the Western Waves representative squads for the upcoming season.In the under-sixteen boys' category, Colac's Fred Melville and Irrewarra's Ted Hay were named in the squad, alongside Cobden players Ben Vogels and Michael Benallack.The under-fifteen girls' squad features a strong local contingent, including Tomahawk Creek trio Crystal Tull, Jemma Howat, and Natalie Farquharson.They are joined in the squad by Pomborneit's Emily Reynolds and Bookaar's Stella Hinds.==================================================================History has been made over the weekend with the Senior Men's clash between South Colac and Birregurra seeing an all Female umpiring group.It is the second time in Colac & District Football Netball League history the event has occurred.The feat was achieved by Field Umpires Linda Knight, Ahnika Lennie and Jess Heath, Boundary umpires Marissa Whitehead, Charlotte Wilson and Charlotte McKinnon, and goal umpires Penny Serle and Anna Rowland.==================================================================Camperdown export Ken Hinkley as been named as the inaugural coach of the AFL's freshest team - the Tasmania Devils.Less than 12 months after being moved on from Port Adelaide, Hinkley has signed a five year deal for the team which will enter the league in 2028.=================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for July 21, 2026.===================================Two people have escaped uninjured after an incident at Apollo Bay Airport on Sunday.Emergency Services responded to a call of an Aircraft that had left the runway after landing just before 4PM.Advanced Life Support paramedics attended, the scene alongside police but no emergency treatment or transport was required.======================================================================The State Government has announced additional support for communities affected by the January bushfires.Residents in Gellibrand and Carlisle River can now access further community assistance programs.======================================================================A nineteen-year-old Camperdown man has been sentenced to prison following multiple traffic and property offences committed across Camperdown and Colac while on bail.The court handed down an additional eight-month jail term, adding to the two-hundred-and-fifty-one days already served in custody.  (THANK AUSTYN).======================================================================An elderly Colac man will face trial in the Supreme Court after pleading not guilty to murdering the brother of a St Kilda premiership legend.The case has been committed directly to the higher court, where the accused was granted fourteen days to produce his intended alibi. Court documents state police allege the offence occurred between April eleventh and thirteenth, twenty-twelve. (THANK AUSTYN).======================================================================The Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority has provided an update on the point grey redevelopment in LorneThe steel is up for the new Co-Op and Angling Club, and the timber work is now starting to reveal the Co-Op’s familiar roofline, which is part of the design’s nod to the original 1949 building.  (THANK AUSTYN).======================================================================Colac Otway and Corangamite farmers are being urged to exercise caution by the Victorian Farmers Federation as National Farm Safety Week begins.======================================================================AND IN SPORTThe Colac Otway Rovers seniors had a big 3-2 win over Surf Coast FC in the weekends Soccer results.The reserves went down 1-nil to Corio Bay SC.The Womens side suffered a 4-1 defeat to Surf Coast FC.======================================================================It was a good weekend for the Corangamite Lions with the women's team recording a 10-nil win over Victoria Park.The Men's seniors also had a big win 4-1.======================================================================The Colac Braves Division 1 side suffered a heavy 16 run defeat to the Lara Wildcats.The Division 3 side also went down 17-1 to the Deakin Blues.===================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for July 20, 2026.====================================Grant recipients were awarded and recognised at COPACC on Friday with more than $300,000 awarded to community groups, events, and businesses with the addition of the trees for farms grants.Colac Otway Shire Mayor Jason Schram says the day is incredibly rewarding and recognising those making a difference across the Colac Otway region.========================================================================Among the Colac Otway Shire's Grant recipients on Friday were the Geelong and South West Heritage Rail Society.They focus on preserving local railway history, research, and restoring historic infrastructure, most notably the historic Birregurra Railway Station.Presidents of the Society Don Lidgerwood says the grant money of $1,320 dollars to upgrade the station room, is essential to the clubs survival.========================================================================Across the Colac Otway and Corangamite regions, eligible primary producers can now access five-thousand dollars in financial support following a recent drought period.========================================================================Tenants across the Colac Otway and Corangamite L-G-As are facing higher living costs as regional Victorian rents reach record peaks.The latest Domain Rent Report shows weekly rents in Corangamite rose eight point four per cent annually, increasing from four-hundred-and-fifteen dollars to four-hundred-and-fifty dollars.In the Colac Otway Shire, median rents increased six point four per cent to reach five-hundred dollars per week. ========================================================================In Colac, road safety improvement works on Connor Street have been delayed following a review of the project scope.The upgrades, spanning between Hart Street and Corangamite Street, were originally set to begin on Tuesday, July twenty-first, but are now scheduled for the second week of August.Council CEO Andrew Tenni confirmed the revised plans mean no permanent loss of on-street parking. ========================================================================A residential property at forty-one Edmundson Street in Birregurra has been listed on the market by Charles Stewart Real Estate.Constructed by local builder B-D-H, the three-bedroom home is situated on six-thousand-one-hundred-and-eighty-nine square metres of land.The property incorporates sustainability features including double glazing, solar power, and a Tesla battery system with electric vehicle charging capabilities. ========================================================================Member for Wannon Dan Tehan will be travelling across the Colac Otway region this week to chat all things local business.Mr Tehan has used the parliamentary recess over winter to see local small businesses across the electorate.========================================================================AND IN SPORTColac Tigers footballer Micah Robb enjoyed a successful first hit out in the VFL with the Werribee Tigers beating Port Melbourne by 38 Points.In other state league action Cobden's Rhys Unwin and the Essendon Bombers had a convincing 53 point win over Coburg.========================================================================There was an even mixture of smashings and close fixtures in this weekends round of CDFNL action.Lorne pumped Otway Districts by 144 points.and the Colac Imperials dismantled Western Eagles by 105.Alvie narrowly won by 5 against Irrewarra-Beeac.South Colac all but ended Birregurra's finals chances with an 8 point win.AND to round out the football results Simpson beat Apollo Bay by 29.Over on the netball courts Otway beat Lorne by 3.South Colac beat Birregurra by 4.Simpson won by 27 against Apollo Bay.Irrewarra-Beeac smashed Alvie 31.AND the Colac Imperials had a 13 goal win against the Western Eagles.========================================================================The Colac Tigers suffered a 10 point loss at the hands of Bell Park in the football over the weekend.The win now sees the Colac Tigers two wins outside the final five.Over on the netball court the Colac Tigers lost by 24 goals to Bell Park.========================================================================In this weekends Hampden League football action it was 4 from 4 for the regions senior football and netball teams.Cobden had a 39 point win over Hamilton, while Camperdown produced the upset of the football round with a 50 point win over the Warrnambool Blues.Over on the netball court both the regions sides had wins, with Cobden downing Hamilton by 44 goals, and Camperdown recording a close win over Warrnambool Blues by 4.====================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for July 17, 2026.================================A unique property in the hills above Skenes Creek has been listed for sale for one-million six-hundred-and-forty-thousand dollars.The timber house was designed and built in nineteen-eighty-four by the late architect Paul McDonald.Spanning an almost thirty-hectare block, the three-bedroom Apollo Bay home features extensive balconies, an open living area, and a main suite with ceiling-height windows.================================================================A public meeting will take place this Sunday at the Lake View Colac Cafe to help those wanting to understand diabetes.Colac teacher Todd Klein is launching an initiative to Better Understand Diabetes and provide a support network for those living with the condition across the region.================================================================Construction of the new healthcare worker accommodation on Colac's Miller Street is on track for a September completion.Built by local construction company B-D-H, the sixteen-unit development aims to address regional staffing shortages.Colac Area Health C-E-O Fiona Brew stated the housing will help draw younger medical professionals to the local health service.================================================================Colac Area Health is offering free, practical assistance to local residents affected by the recent fires through the Emergency Recovery Support Program.Drop-in sessions are being held at the Carlisle River School every Wednesday from one-thirty to three-thirty p-m during the school term.The program assists community members with accessing financial, legal, and government services, alongside completing forms. ================================================================Cobden residents have gathered in the South West to witness the unveiling of a redesigned giant butter block at Pioneer Park, marking Western Star's one-hundredth anniversary.The monument now displays the brand's centenary packaging for its two-hundred-and-fifty-gram salted butter. Western Star has operated locally for one-hundred years.================================================================The CrossXpollination twenty-twenty-six exhibition is now running at the Colac Civic Hall.Presented by the Colac Makers' Space and Community Art Space, Colac Otway Shire CEO Andrew Tenni says the display features a variety of new and returning textile works.================================================================In Colac, the new Neighbourhood House will officially open at the Youth and Recreation Centre on six Myers Street.The grand opening takes place on Thursday, July thirtieth, from eleven a-m to two p-m.The event features a free barbecue provided by the Rotary Club of Colac Otway, five-dollar barista coffee, and a performance by the Colac Chorale. ================================================================Today is the last day for South West residents to have their say on the most dangerous roads across the region through RACV's My Country Road Survey.RACV Head of Policy James Williams says the My Country Road Survey was launched to make your voice heard about dangerous or poorly maintained regional roads in Victoria by completing the 5-minute survey online.================================================================Two people have been hospitalized after their vehicle struck a pothole on the Princes Highway at Warncoort, near Colac.Emergency services responded to the incident on Wednesday at approximately three-fifty p-m.Police officers conducting a speed detection operation witnessed the Holden Commodore blow a front tyre, lose control, and strike a barrier.A man and a woman in their thirties were transported to Geelong hospital in a stable condition with upper body injuries.================================================================AND IN SPORTIn this weekends CDFNL Football and Netball fixtures, Otway Districts host Lorne.South Colac plays Birregurra.The Western Eagles do battle with the Colac Imperials.The Simpson Tigers travel down to Apollo Bay.AND Irrewarra-Beeac faces Alvie.================================================================It's a must win battle for the Colac Tigers in the football this weekend as they take on Bell Park at Hi Sushi Oval.A win would draw the Tigers level with Bell Park for wins on the ladder and shape its potential finals tilt.================================================================In this weekends local Hampden football and netball matches.The Cobden Bomber host the Hamilton Kangaroos.and Camperdown faces the Warrnambool Blues.================================================================Camperdown will be on the hunt for a new netball coach with Jill Leader stepping down from the role for 2027.Geelong-based Leader took over the role in 2025, previously working with the Geelong Cougars in the Victorian Netball League.================================================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for July 16, 2026.================================A German insurance giant’s subsidiary has bought more than 30 Corangamite dairy farms since 2022, stripping agricultural land from local food production.Corangamite Shire Mayor Kate Makin spoke on Ace Radio's Country Today about the flow on effect felt across the community.================================================================Camperdown is a step closer to gaining sixteen new dementia care beds following a unanimous vote by the Corangamite Shire Council.Councillors have authorized chief executive David Rae to negotiate a long-term lease over a portion of Jaycee Park on Manifold Street. ================================================================Plans for the Colac Area Health Wellbeing centre are well and truly in motion thanks to the generous donations from the Robert Speirs estate.Colac Area Health Foundation Board Chair Georgina Hayden says the bequest is a once-in-a-lifetime and will help the service reinvest into the Colac Community.================================================================The Colac Otway Shire Council is seeking funding for three regional projects through the Victorian Government’s Local Sports Infrastructure Fund.Colac Otway Shire CEO Andrew Tenni says submissions to the Local Sports Infrastructure Fund include five-hundred-thousand dollars for the Western Reserve Netball Pavilion and two-hundred-and-fifty-thousand dollars for Central Reserve Hockey Fields lighting.================================================================Analysis from R-M-I-T University indicates that a blanket speed limit increase on the Princes Highway and Freeway between Melbourne and Colac could compromise road safety.================================================================Geotechnical landslip stabilization works have commenced on the Timboon-Port Campbell Road in the state's South West.The project is taking place between Wild Dog Road and the Cobden-Port Campbell Road to minimize future landslide risks.================================================================AND IN SPORTPreparations for our local surfers are gearing up for the Australian Longboard Championships.Lorne's Greg Brown will compete among multiple categories including mens-over-55s and over-60s.Apollo Bay's Carlyn Lalor will compete in the over 50 women's.Apollo Bay's Brett Lalor will compete in the over 60s men's.================================================================In this weekends baseball action the Colac Braves host the Lara Wildcats in Division 1.In Division 2 the Braves are also at home against the Deakin Blues.===============================================================In this weekends local soccer fixtures the Colac Otway Rovers Women's team faces Surf Coast on Saturday.Its also a reserves and seniors double header at Beeac on Sunday with the Reserves facing Corio Bay, and the Seniors playing Surf Coast FC.The Corangamite Lions face a big test going up against Ballarat SC in all its senior fixtures.================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for July 15, 2026.===========================A new pledge has been revealed from the Liberals and Nationals Government following its $5 billion dollar road announcement.Opposition Leader Jess Wilson says the speed limit on the Princes Freeway will be increased between Melbourne and Colac from 100-kilometres-per-hour to 110-kilometres-per-hour.======================================================A proposed telecommunications facility in Terang could be expanded to improve services across the South West and beyond.Telstra has partnered with the Corangamite Shire Council to construct a new ground station in the local township.However, recent planning documents reviewing the project's technical assessment suggest that expanding the proposal would benefit a much larger portion of southern Australia.======================================================Angling clubs across the Colac Otway region can now apply for funding through the Victorian Fisheries Authority's Stronger Fishing Clubs Grants program.VFA CEA Travis Dowling says the final round offers up to ten-thousand dollars per club for facility upgrades or community programs.======================================================Residents across the Colac Otway region will have access to a free mobile health service later this month following an announcement by the Lions Club of Colac.======================================================Corangamite Shire Mayor Kate Makin says the State Opposition's five-billion-dollar road repair plan is what regional Victoria needs.Speaking as Deputy Chair of Rural Councils Victoria, Councillor Makin highlighted that deteriorating roads increase freight costs and damage vehicles.The coalition has promised the infrastructure funding over the next parliamentary term. ======================================================Farmers and agricultural professionals across the South West are invited to submit nominations for the inaugural Australian Agriculture Awards.Editorial Director at ACM Agri, Penelope Arthur, SAYS the new program, run by A-C-M Agri and the National Farmers' Federation, recognizes individuals demonstrating leadership and innovation within the sector.======================================================AND IN SPORTThe Cobden Bombers under 16s footballers broke through for their first win of the 2026 season over the weekend.The Bombers had a thrilling 3 point win to beat Terang-Mortlake.======================================================New and and emerging Swimmers will meet this Saturday for the Colac Swim Clubs Qualifying and Encouragement Meet.Held at Bluewater Leisure Centre, Warm ups begin at 12.30pm with competition beginning at 1pm.======================================================The Colac and District Football Netball League Under Seventeen representative team has claimed victory at the twenty-twenty-six Female Festival of Sport.Hosted by AFL Barwon and the Geelong Netball Club, the local side played an exhibition match against the Bellarine Football Netball League, securing a forty-six to twenty win.===========================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for July 14, 2026.======================================Farmers in the Corangamite Catchment Management Authority region are invited to apply for round two of the Testing the Waters program.First launched in twenty-twenty-five, the free initiative supports landholders to improve farm dams, increasing biodiversity and water quality.============================================================================With only around three-hundred individuals remaining, the critically endangered eastern population of Southern right whales is the focus of a new Great Ocean Road research program.============================================================================Residents and visitors in Lorne are being invited to help the Surf Coast Shire Council shape the town's future walking and cycling networks.============================================================================After visiting the Polwarth electorate over the weekend, the State Opposition has announced a five-billion-dollar investment to repair Victoria's regional roads.Leader of the Opposition Jess Wilson passed through Colac before confirming the policy in Warrnambool yesterday, which aims to eliminate one-million potholes and re-establish a planned system of preventative maintenance.============================================================================Member for Wannon Dan Tehan is asking all small businesses across the electorate to partake in a small business survey.Mr Tehan says he wants to hear key issues, which will shape the direction of future policies.============================================================================Despite not being totally convinced the Victorian Farmers Federation, says the Victorian Coalition' $5 billion dollar funding commitment is a step in the right direction for Colac Otway and Corangamite road users.============================================================================AND IN SPORTThe Colac Otway Rovers seniors had a good win in its weekend match against Barwon SC.Ian Hitchmough and Tim Brain both netted goals in the 2-1 win.============================================================================It was a difficult weekend in Sebastopol for the Corangamite Lions with all three teams losing.The seniors went down 3-nil, the Reserves 2-nil, and the women's also had no luck going down 1-nil.============================================================================It was tough weekend on the mound for the Colac Braves Division 3 Baseball team.The Colac Braves were away to the Bacchus Marsh Tigers 19-1.======================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for July 13, 2026.===================================Victorian Opposition Leader Jess Wilson visited Colac over the weekend as part of her state-wide Fresh Start Tour.Ms Wilson says the South West roads maintenance must become a key priority.======================================================================A man in his twenties has lost his hand in a serious workplace accident at the Twelve Apostles Visitor Centre last Friday.The worker was cleaning out a sewer pit at the Princetown site when the incident occurred around nine a-m. ======================================================================Colac Otway Shire Council is inviting community members to learn about the ongoing restoration of Barongarook Creek.The Environment and Sustainability team will host an information session this Wednesday, July fifteenth, to discuss the GreenLinks Project and upcoming revegetation works. ======================================================================South West commuters travelling on the Warrnambool line will soon be able to pay for public transport using a phone, smartwatch, or bank card.======================================================================The G-twenty-one alliance is calling on political parties to commit to unlocking crucial industrial land in Colac ahead of the next election.======================================================================BlazeAid is seeking volunteers from across the South West to assist with tree planting throughout mid-July.The initiative targets properties damaged by the Streatham-Carranballac-Skipton and Larralea-Leslie Manor bushfires.Corangamite Shire Mayor Kate Makin notes that no prior experience is required.======================================================================Ambulance Victoria and Colac Police have attended the scene of a road incident on Wilson Street in Colac around 7:30am on July 10.Advanced Life Support paramedics assessed and treated one person at the scene.A man in his 50s with a suspected upper body injury was transported by road ambulance to Colac Area Health in a stable condition.======================================================================AND IN SPORTIn the weekend's Colac and District football and netball results.The Western Eagles beat Apollo Bay by 24 points.Colac Imperials beat Birregurra by 31.Lorne beat South by 40.Alvie defeated Otway Districts by 55.and Simpson defeated Irrewarra-Beeac in a close matchup by 4 points.Over on the netball court the Colac Imperials won the top of the table clash against Birregurra.Western Eagles smashed Apollo Bay by 39.South Colac was too strong for Lorne.Otway Districts powered past Alvie.And Simpson narrowly won against Irrewarra-Beeac by 2.======================================================================In the weekends Geelong Football and Netball League results, the Colac Tigers had a resounding 64 point win over Grovedale.Kody Spokes was named best on ground with Josh Garner kicking 3 goals.Over on the netball court the Colac Tigers also had a 12 goal win.======================================================================It was a tough weekend in the Hampden League football for our local teams with Cobden going down by 33 to Terang-Mortlake.Camperdown also went down by 70 to North Warrnambool.Over on the netball courts Cobden had a 7 goal win,While Camperdown went down by 15.===================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the Pulse is scheduled and here is what is making news for July 10, 2026.====================================The Cobden Fire Brigade gathered at the local recreation reserve to honour the dedication of its members.C-F-A Chief Officer Jason Heffernan and Board Member Bryce Morden attended the awards lunch to present multiple honours.The highlight of the event was Geoff Fagan, who received a Special Recognition Award and an extraordinary seventy-year C-F-A Service Award. ========================================================================Market optimism is growing across the Colac Otway region as the winter break concludes.According to Colac Stock Agents Association President Matt Nelson, the current economic outlook is vastly improved compared to this time last year.========================================================================The Riding for the Disabled Colac annual fundraising luncheon is exactly one month away, scheduled for Thursday, August thirteenth.Running from eleven-thirty a-m to three-thirty p-m, the event will take place at the Lake Colac Bowls Club on Moore Street. ========================================================================Yesterday saw the unveiling of the 270,00 dollar investment for double levelled loading ramps at the Colac Saleyards.Colac Otway Shire Mayor Jason Schram says investing in the saleyards is crucial to ensure the sustainability of its future.========================================================================The Coalition says soaring electricity prices show the Federal Government has failed to deliver on its election promise to lower household power bills.Analysis released by the Opposition claims Australians have spent nearly 23 billion dollars more on electricity over the past four years.Shadow Energy Minister and Wannon MP Dan Tehan says Labor needs to rethink its approach to energy policy.========================================================================Not-for-profit and community organizations across Colac and the south-west are being encouraged to apply for the latest round of the A-N-Z Seeds of Renewal program.Delivered alongside the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal, the initiative offers grants of up to fifteen-thousand dollars.========================================================================AND IN SPORTIn this weekends CDFNL action, The Western Eagles host Apollo Bay.The Colac Imperials travel to Birregurra.Lorne play South Colac in a huge clash.Alvie faces Otway Districts.And Simpson play Irrewarra-Beeac.========================================================================In this weekends Geelong Football and Netball League fixtures the Colac Tigers will be at home.The Tigers currently 6th, face Grovedale who are 8th.========================================================================In this weekends Hampden League action Terang Mortlake hosts the Cobden Bombers.North Warrnambool hosts Camperdown, in what is sure to be a big test for our local teams.========================================================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for July 09, 2026.===================================Colac residents are being urged to have their say on the future security of the local water supply as Barwon Water develops its next five-year action plan.An online survey is open until July twenty-sixth, allowing the community to influence the twenty-twenty-eight to twenty-thirty-three Price Submission.Residents can also share their thoughts in person during a local pop-up event at Colac Plaza on Wednesday, July fifteenth.======================================================================Colac residents now have access to the city’s first local M-R-I machine, eliminating the need to travel to Geelong for scans.Locally owned and operated Vision Radiology has opened in the Bromfield Street Aldi complex.The accessible clinic offers a comprehensive range of bulk-billed services, including M-R-I, C-T scans, X-rays, ultrasounds, and interventional procedures. ======================================================================Corangamite Shire Council has finalized its advocacy priorities ahead of the November state election, targeting three key infrastructure projects and energy policy reform.======================================================================Incoming Rotary Club of Colac Otway President Ben Zappelli says uniting Colac and Colac West Clubs has been met positively from both members.He thanked the members for the ease of its changeover, and cant wait for its initial community campaigns together.======================================================================Leader of the State Opposition Jess Wilson will visit the Polwarth electorate this weekend as part of her Fresh Start Tour.Local MP Richard Riordan will be ensuring key talking points such as roads, coastal management and the rail network.======================================================================Colac Otway farmers face a cautiously optimistic second half of the year, according to a new mid-year agricultural outlook.Bendigo Bank Senior Manager of Industry Insights Eliza Redfern says improved seasonal conditions and strong red meat prices are boosting the sector. ======================================================================AND IN SPORTThe Colac Swimming Club is preparing to host its upcoming Encouragement Meet at the Bluewater Leisure Centre.The event will take place on Saturday, July eighteenth, at the twenty-five-metre indoor pool.The meet is open to both experienced and unregistered swimmers. ======================================================================The Colac Imperials' Emily Davis has been named an A-F-L Barwon Female Club Champion as part of the Female Festival of Sport.Davis has served the club for over two decades, playing more than three-hundred games and holding key roles like netball president and treasurer.======================================================================In this weekends soccer fixtures the Corangamite Lions have a big day at Sebastopol with the Div 1, 2 and women's teams taking on the Sebastopol Vikings.In Geelong League action, the Colac Otway Rovers women face Leopold.The Seniors face Barwon SC, and the Reserves play the Geelong Rangers.===================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for July 8, 2026.================================The Apollo Bay Harbour slipway has experienced a surge in activity over the past fortnight, handling significantly more traffic than its winter average.While port crews typically process one to two vessels a month, five commercial boats have been safely slipped over the last two weeks. ================================================================A forty-three-year-old former Warrnambool man has been sentenced to a twelve-month community corrections order after making twenty fake calls to emergency services.The man falsely reported erratic driving incidents to zero-zero-zero over several months, resulting in his own vehicle being intercepted by police from Colac, Terang, Birregurra, Warrnambool, and Winchelsea. ================================================================Residents in Gellibrand, Carlisle River and Skipton seeking answers over the recent summer bushfires are facing delays following state government intervention in a parliamentary inquiry.================================================================Colac Otway and Corangamite Landcare volunteers are being reminded that nominations for the twenty-twenty-six State and Territory Landcare Awards close at the end of July.Landcare Australia Communications Manager Eleanor Slade says the awards recognise local groups making a lasting environmental difference.================================================================A Scotts Creek paddock-to-plate business born during the pandemic has evolved into a thriving enterprise.Otway Beef Founders Tom Hobbs and Angel Polendakis recently discussed their five-year journey from growing vegetables to supplying regional meat, including how they plan to navigate the expected dry winter.================================================================The multi-purpose courts at the Timboon Recreation Reserve have undergone a major redevelopment, aided by a ten-thousand-dollar contribution from Saputo Dairy Australia.Delivered alongside local sporting bodies, the upgrade features four full-size tennis courts, two netball courts, and two training courts.================================================================Emergency services attended a two-vehicle motor accident in Terang yesterday afternoon. First responders were called to the intersection of Shadforth Street and Baynes Street just after one p-m.According to Ambulance Victoria, two people were transported to hospital with minor injuries. ================================================================AND IN SPORTLocal football's peak body, A-F-L Barwon, has announced that findings from its match review panel will no longer be made public.For the remainder of the season, the organiSation will cease providing weekly summaries or distributing panel outcomes. ================================================================The Colac Braves suffered defeats across two grades in weekend baseball action.Division One was kept scoreless, falling to the Bellarine Bears sixteen to zero, despite recording five hits.Meanwhile, the Division Three side lost to Deakin sixteen to four.================================================================The Corangamite Lions Division 2 side enjoyed a strong showcasing over the weekend against the Sebastapol Vikings.The Lions won 4-1 while the seniors and women's teams enjoyed a week off.================================================================The Colac Otway Rovers had a one-all draw with the third placed Geelong SC over the weekend.The Rovers took the lead in the 47th minute thanks to a goal from Luke Blackburn, however Geelong SC scored a late equaliser.================================================================The local Competitions Committee has finalised arrangements for the twenty-twenty-six, twenty-twenty-seven Weekend and Midweek Pennant bowls seasons.Weekend matches for divisions one and two will begin at twelve-thirty p-m over twenty-five ends, while divisions three and four start at one p-m over twenty-one ends.The home-and-away season will conclude with the Grand Final hosted at the Colac Lake Bowling Club, with the top-ranked teams securing home finals.================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for July 6, 2026.===================================The State Emergency Service has confirmed a magnitude three-point-eight earthquake occurred near Port Campbell yesterday.The tremor was recorded at one-thirty-nine p-m yesterday.Authorities state there is no immediate threat to the community and no public action is currently required. ======================================================================Residents across much of the state's west, including the Corangamite and Colac Otway shires, may notice a low-flying light aircraft making repeated passes over the coming months.The plane is conducting an Airborne Electromagnetic Survey for Geoscience Australia and the Geological Survey of Victoria. ======================================================================The Great Ocean Road has fully reopened following a series of four landslides over the past two weeks.Local State Emergency Service units from Lorne, along with police and road contractors, cleared multiple sites including boulder blockages at Smythe Creek and Separation Creek.======================================================================A school holiday promotion is running across the twelve apostles region until July twelfth.Timboon Railway Shed Distillery's Josh Walker says Visitors who spend ten dollars or more at five participating Twelve Apostles Food Artisan businesses can collect stamps on a trail map. ======================================================================Road surface upgrade works will commence tomorrow on Connor Street in Colac, between Hart and Corangamite streets.Colac Otway Shire CEO Andrew Tenni expects the project to take about one month.======================================================================Member for Wannon Dan Tehan will visit small businesses across his electorate during the parliamentary winter break.Mr Tehan says that supporting small business operators is currently one of his primary priorities.======================================================================AND IN SPORTIn the CDFNL's Round 11 action,football results saw Irrewarra-Beeac smash Otway Districts by 51.South Colac lost to Alvie by 59.Lorne has regained top spot on the ladder after a 15 point win against the Colac Imperials.Birregurra beat Apollo Bay by 28 points.Simpson defeated Western Eagles by 47.Over on the netball courts Irrewarra-Beeac defeated Otway Districts.Western Eagles beat Simpson by 20.Imps beat Lorne by 16.Birregurra smashed Apollo Bay.and South Colac defeated Alvie by 28.======================================================================Colac paddler Tom Russell has officially wrapped up his junior sprint world championship campaign in Canada.Russell made the B final for the K1 Junior Men's 1000 metre race and made the semi-final in the K4 Junior Men's 500 metre race.======================================================================Colac's Zara Walters and her Melbourne Vixens teammates went down in the Suncorp Super Netball Grand Final on Saturday night.The Vixens went down by 21 to the Adelaide Thunderbirds.===================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for July 3, 2026.=================================Residents in the Colac Otway and Corangamite shires recovering from the January seventh bushfires can still access free government waste levy waivers.While some general disposal programs concluded on June thirtieth, the Victorian Government has extended the state levy exemption until October twenty-eighth, twenty-twenty-six.The waiver applies directly to disaster waste dropped off at local council transfer stations. ==================================================================A new community organization has been established following the official merger of the Rotary Clubs of Colac and Colac West on Wednesday night.Now operating as the Rotary Club of Colac Otway, the combined group marked the amalgamation at a dinner where the inaugural board was inducted.==================================================================Corangamite Shire Council's newly adopted twenty-twenty-six to twenty-twenty-seven budget includes a nineteen point zero-five million dollar capital works program.==================================================================Applications are now open for seasonal and ongoing forest firefighter positions across Victoria, including the state's south-west region.Forest Fire Management Victoria is recruiting entry-level personnel for the upcoming bushfire season to work alongside permanent crews.==================================================================The New lease arrangement between the Colac Otway Shire and Management Group IVG has officially begun.Centre Manager James Wholate says he can't wait to implement some new and fresh ideas at the centre.==================================================================Renters across Colac Otway and Corangamite regions will now be able to transfer their bond from one property to another, in what is being described as a major win and removing one of the biggest up front moving costs==================================================================The Corangamite Shire Council has commissioned a legal review into the state government's approval of the Mumblin wind farm.The eight-turbine project, located on a one-thousand-four-hundred-and-ninety-six-hectare site south-west of Cobden, was recently approved by the planning minister. ==================================================================AND IN SPORTIt's one more sleep until Colac's Zara Walters is playing in the 2026 Suncorp Super Netball Grand Final.It's marks Zara's fifth grand final in a row, with two for the Colac Tigers, a defeat for the Vixens and last years Grand Final success.==================================================================In this weekends CDFNL Fixtures, Otway Districts host Irrewarra-Beeac.South Colac will play Alvie.Its massive football and netball clash as the Colac Imperials take on Lorne.Apollo Bay will face Birregurra.and the Western Eagles face off against Simpson.==================================================================Four under-fifteen netballers from the Colac District Football Netball League have been talent-identified following the Association Championships.Lilah Morris, Milah Crole, Addison Rocka, and Lily Tuvakasuka have received invitations to trial for the twenty-twenty-seven Netball Victoria Talent Academy.The players represent the Western Eagles, Simpson, South Colac, and Apollo Bay clubs.=================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for July 2, 2026.==================================Australian entertainer and advocate Ernie Dingo will be in Camperdown on July eight, twenty-twenty-six, to headline a free NAIDOC Week event hosted by South West Healthcare.====================================================================Victoria’s fire services are urging Colac Otway and Corangamite residents to ensure they have working smoke alarms and a Home Fire Escape Plan as new figures show an increase in the number of preventable fire fatalities last year across Victoria.====================================================================The twenty-twenty-six Community Satisfaction Survey shows an increase in resident approval for the Corangamite Shire Council following declines last year.Council’s overall performance index rose five points to sixty-three, remaining above the state average of fifty-eight. ====================================================================The Colac Salvation Army is piloting a physical literacy program for children aged three to seven.Delivered in partnership with Leisure Networks, the Mini Movers program operates during school holidays for groups of fifteen. ====================================================================After an official opening from state officials last weekend the Colac Otway Shire will host a community celebration day at the Elliminyt Wetlands on Friday July 10.Shire CEO Andrew Tenni says the day will be an open event for all the public to attend and check out the newly opened area.====================================================================Simpson Recreation Reserve Lake and Cobden Lake have each received 300 trout for families to fish over these school holidays.Vic Fisheries Acting CEO Luke O'Sullivan says they are among the 50 locations across Victoria to receive the funding.====================================================================AND IN SPORTCamperdown netballer Aidan Conheady has been selected for the Australian twenty-and-under men’s team ahead of the Trans-Tasman Series in New Zealand from July eighth to eleventh.Conheady was selected for the final twelve-player squad following a three-night training camp in Sydney. ====================================================================Several of the regions talented juniors played in the Barwon Region Showcase yesterday which was at Central Reserve in Colac.Coach of Team Ablett Simon Dewar says it was a fantastic day and an awesome opportunity to be involved.====================================================================Player tryout registrations are now open for the Colac Kookas twenty-twenty-six to twenty-twenty-seven Junior Representative Program.Junior basketballers wishing to trial for the upcoming seasonal squad must complete their registration before the deadline at five p-m on Friday, July ten, twenty-twenty-six.====================================================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for July 1, 2026.==================================Colac Area Health is currently recruiting Community members to join a Steering Committee aimed at improving the cultural safety of cancer services in the Barwon region.Wathaurong Aboriginal Corporation's Kim Henshaw says applications close on Monday, 13 July.====================================================================The state government has announced funding for six Corangamite Shire initiatives through round three of the twenty-million-dollar Tiny Towns Fund.====================================================================The possibility of regional council mergers is gaining momentum as local governments face state-imposed rate caps and reduced state and federal funding.Colac Otway Shire Mayor and G-21 Chair Jason Schram says while the local shire is operating effectively, opportunities exist for shared resources and streamlined funding in the future.====================================================================Colac's Salvation Army has smashed its target over the month of June for the national organisations Red Shield Appeal.Salvation Army Colac's Josiah Van Niekerk says he has been blown away by the local support.====================================================================Lorne State Emergency Service Unit Controller Chris Jones has resigned from his position after three years in the role.Jones stated his decision was made to balance personal, family, and professional commitments. ====================================================================Recent June rainfall has successfully restored local water storages in Colac, Lorne, and Apollo Bay to full capacity.While these smaller regional catchments have reached one-hundred per cent, Barwon Water reports that larger storages in the broader Geelong region remain below fifty per cent. ====================================================================New regulations for how renewable energy and large-scale battery projects connect to the electricity grid are set to impact South West Victoria.Replacing the current open-access system, the new rules require developers in the Colac Otway and Corangamite zones to meet strict government standards for community engagement and local benefit-sharing. ====================================================================AND IN SPORTCamperdown netballer Piper Stephens has been selected for the Australian Under-Seventeen squad.Following her performance at the National Championships in April, Stephens will attend a national development camp at the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra from July six to ten.====================================================================Colac overseas cricketers continue to perform.Apollo Bay duo Pat Grimmer and Kai Clissold each had wins for their respective clubs.Grimmer scored 38 in Sandford St Martin's win over Shipton Under Wychwood, and now sits on top of the ladder.Clissold picked up 2-27 from 8 overs in Martley's win over Cookley.City United product Luke Inglis and his club Hampton Wick Royal sit fourth in their respective competition.====================================================================One hundred players across twenty-five teams competed in the Camperdown Golf Club’s twenty-twenty-six Robbie Burns Festival Four-Person Ambrose.A Colac team consisting of Travis White, Caleb Perry, Ben Allen, and Luke Vickers won the Robbie Burns Shield with a net score of fifty-six point eight.Another Colac team, featuring Paul Hanson, David Walker, Mark Ritchie, and Wayne Drayton, took out the best scratch score with sixty-three. ==================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for June 30, 2026.=============================Construction on the new one-hundred-and-twenty-six-million-dollar Twelve Apostles Visitor Experience Centre is progressing toward completion later this year.The redevelopment has employed more than seven-hundred-and-fifty people since construction began last year, including over fifty apprentices.Once operational, the facility will feature a visitor centre, gallery space, restaurant, and expanded parking to accommodate regional tourism growth. ==========================================================Old Beech Forest Road is facing a minimum six-month closure after a landslip on the route deteriorated, requiring major stabilisation works.==========================================================A 155 hectare property in Pirron Yallock has hit the real estate market at just under 3.3 million dollars.The listing featuring more than 385 acres is divided into 40 well-fenced and sheltered paddocks, serviced by an excellent central laneway system.==========================================================The State Government is set to deliver more nurses and midwaives in more hospitals by strengthening nurse-to-patient ratios.Legislation will be introduced this term to further strengthen nurse-to-patient ratios including the Colac hospital.==========================================================Motorists travelling through Colac these school holidays are encouraged to take a break at the Ian "Titch" Burnett Memorial Driver Reviver.Located at four-ninety-six Murray Street, the site will be open from Friday, June twenty-six to Sunday, June twenty-eight, and again from Friday, July ten to Sunday, July twelve.==========================================================Climate observations for the entirety of June at Cape Otway reveal an unusually mild start to the winter season, highlighted by an historic temperature milestone. ==========================================================AND IN SPORTIt was a successful weekend for the Colac Otway Rovers men's soccer teams.The Seniors side won 3-2 against Lara United thanks to goals from Dezire Irunga, Sangit Shrestha and Ian Hitchmough.The Reserves also had a 2-nil win over Armstrong United.==========================================================The Colac Braves Division 1 Baseballers had a rough weekend on the mound in Division 1 losing by 17 against the East Guild All Stars.The Colac Braves Division 3 side also had a loss to the Corio Tigers 7 to 12.==========================================================It was a tough weekend for the men's Corangamite Lions sides, however the women's team enjoyed a 4-nil win over Ballarat North.The seniors went down 9-nil, and the reserves lost 7-nil.=============================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for June 29, 2026.==================================The new one-hundred-and-twenty-six million dollar Twelve Apostles visitor centre has appointed Andre Smaniotto as its general manager under a new management structure.====================================================================Are-able is hosting a Meet the Mentors Morning Tea at the Salvation Army Colac on Tuesday, July seven.The event introduces the Parent Pathways program, designed to assist parents and carers of children under six who are not in paid employment.====================================================================Colac residents are being urged to complete their National Bowel Cancer Screening kits.Recent data shows only forty-four-point-three per cent of eligible Victorians use the tests, despite the program detecting nearly eighteen-thousand cancers. ====================================================================Police are appealing for public assistance to locate missing forty-three-year-old Colac man, Matthew.He was last seen at Footscray Railway Station at three-thirty-p-m on June three.Matthew frequently travels on the V-Line between Colac and Melbourne, and uses the Metro network. Police hold welfare concerns as his disappearance is out of character and he lacks required medication. ====================================================================The Surf Coast Shire Council has endorsed its Year Two Action Plan, detailing community and infrastructure projects for the next twelve months.Initiatives impacting Lorne and Deans Marsh include progressing affordable housing developments in Lorne and providing community grants for local projects.The plan also focuses on supporting small businesses across the shire and continuing road upgrades.====================================================================Member for Wannon Dan Tehan has returned from a trip to Europe seeing first-hand the importance of investing in the right types of energy.Mr Tehan visted England, Norway and Germany recently and says its crucial to ensure the sustainability of Australian industries.====================================================================Colac Otway and Corangamite farmers can now register for the annual WestVic Dairy Trivia Night on Friday, July third.WestVic Dairy Project Coordinator Liza Fahy says the event held at the Allansford Football Ground from seven p-m, the fifteen-dollar event raises funds for rural mental health charity Surviving the Dark Times. ====================================================================AND IN SPORTThe Western Eagles footballers produced the shock upset of the CDFNL round kicking six goals to none in the final quarter to run out 29 point winners against Birregurra.Lorn won convincingly in the Coastal Cup against Apollo Bay.Colac Imperials were too strong for Alvie.Irrewarra-Beeac had a good win against South Colac.and Simpson were far too strong for Otway Districts.Over on the netball courts, Birregurra was too strong for Western Eagles.South Colac beat Irrewarra-Beeac.Lorne smashed Apollo Bay.Colac Imperials beat Alvie,And Otway Districts had a seven goal win against Simpson.====================================================================Colac netballer Zara Walters and her Melbourne Vixens teammates are through to the Suncorp Super Netball Grand Final after an 11 goal win over the West Coast Fever.The Vixens face a huge test in the Adelaide Thunderbirds on July 4.====================================================================Cobden were unsuccessful in this weekends Hampden Football League action going down to Port Fairy by 19.Camperdown broke through for its first win of the 2026 season defeating Hamilton by 29 points.Over on the netball courts Cobden won by 12, and Camperdown went down by 13.====================================================================The Colac Tigers were again overrun in the final quarter in this weekends GFNL action, going down by 2 points to Newtown and Chilwell.The Tigers led by 13 at three quarter time.Over on the netball court, The Colac Tigers girls went down by 55 in A Grade.====================================================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for June 26, 2026.==================================A dairy field day will be held at Bostocks Creek on Thursday, July ninth, highlighting the final year of the WestVic Dairy Focus Farm program.Local producers can learn from the business strategies of Pete and Marnie Kerr, focusing on farm profitability, debt reduction, and business expansion.====================================================================Management of the Winchelsea Swimming Pool is officially changing hands, with an external operator set to take the reins this summer.====================================================================Time is running out to help Camperdown and Port Campbell win the Victorian Top Tourism Town Awards, with voting officially closing today at five p-m.Councillor Laurie Hickey says  using one quick online form, you can back Camperdown in the Small Town category, and Port Campbell in the Tiny Town category. ====================================================================The recently completed Elliminyt Wetlands project in Colac has been officially visited by Minister for Regional Development Michaela Settle.The three-million-dollar state government investment, combined with one-point-forty-five million dollars from the Colac Otway Shire Council, redeveloped over seven hectares of flood-prone land.====================================================================Emergency Management Victoria Commissioner Tim Wiebusch and Deputy Commissioner Mariela Diaz have visited regional communities affected by January's bushfires.Meeting with Corangamite Shire council leaders, the commissioners heard concerns regarding delayed asbestos cleanups and dangerous fire-affected trees on state-managed land.====================================================================Colac Otway and Corangamite sheep and beef farmers will benefit from a new six-million-dollar partnership between Agriculture Victoria and Meat and Livestock Australia.The program provides access to local workshops and on-farm trials.It aims to help producers use existing farm data, such as livestock weight and pasture information, to improve productivity and manage costs. ====================================================================The Australian Bureau of Statistics is reminding residents across Colac Otway and Corangamite regions that applications are now open to work as part of this year's Census.More than 16,000 Field Officers are required across the country with recruitment now well underway. Roles will start in early July with the Census to be held on Tuesday, 11 August.====================================================================AND IN SPORTIn this weekend's Colac and District football and netball fixtures the Western Eagles host Birregurra.The Coastal Cup takes place with Apollo Bay facing Lorne.Alvie and the Colac Imperials will do battle in a 1st vs 3rd clash.Irrewarra-Beeac look to bounce back against South Colac after last weeks big loss.AND the Heytesbury Shield is on the line when Simpson host the Otway Districts.====================================================================This weekend the Colac Tigers face a big test in GFNL action.The footballers take on the second placed Newtown and Chilwell.It's an even tougher test for the netballers with Newtown and Chilwell's side undefeated on top of the ladder.====================================================================In this weekends Hampden League action, the Cobden Bombers host Port Fairy.While the Camperdown Magpies are also at home with a big matchup against the Hamilton Kangaroos.====================================================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for June 25, 2026.==================================Tomorrow is the final day locals can attend the Breast Cancer Mobile Screening Van situated in Apollo Bay.BreastScreen Victoria's Louisa Col-hoon says appointments are available offering free 10-minute breast screens.====================================================================Yesterday crowds gathered at COPACC for the unveiling of the Virtual Memorialisation experience which is at the Colac Cemetery.The research was undertaken by Meryl O'Donnell and her team at the Colac and District Family History Group collating more than 100 stories.====================================================================The Colac Otway Shire Council has officially adopted its twenty-twenty-six to twenty-twenty-seven budget.The budget includes a thirteen-million-dollar capital works program and nearly twelve million dollars for asset maintenance. ====================================================================South-west Victoria is set to receive a massive economic boost following the release of the State Government's new Victorian Energy Jobs Plan.====================================================================The Camperdown Robert Burns Celtic Festival kicks off this weekend, promising a massive line-up of local and international talent.Festival-goers can enjoy a Friday night dinner, choir performances, market stalls, and a shortbread baking competition. ====================================================================A Manager 2IC Course for dairy farmers is coming up in Timboon starting Tuesday 30 June.This free course aims to improve the skills, knowledge, and confidence of participants to progress and achieve their dairy career goals with a big focus on improving people and business management.====================================================================AND IN SPORTLocal paddling star Tom Russell has touched down in Halifax, Canada, following a Gold Coast training camp.He's preparing for the World Junior Canoe Sprint Championships starting July one.====================================================================In this weekends Colac Otway Rovers fixtures, the Rovers women take on Barwon Heads SC.The seniors side takes on Lara United FC, and the Rovers reserves take on Armstrong Creek at home.====================================================================The Corangamite Lions take on Ballarat North in this weekends fixtures.In Division 1 the Lions sit fifth and Ballarat North 3rd, while the Corangamite Lions side sits second.====================================================================In this weekends Baseball action, the Colac Braves face a tough test in Division 1 against the East Guild All-Stars.In Division 3 the Braves will be searching for a win against the bottom-placed Corio Tigers.==================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for June 24, 2026.=================================Community members across the Colac Otway and Corangamite regions are being invited to help create a new, inclusive image library.The project, led by the Respect Twenty-Forty Partnership, is currently seeking expressions of interest from local photographers and models.Women's Health and Wellbeing Barwon South West C-E-O Jodie Hill says the initiative aims to provide organisations with respectful images that accurately reflect the region's diversity.==================================================================Colac Otway Shire is inviting local tourism and hospitality businesses to feature on its new digital wayfinding kiosks for free.The kiosks, located at Memorial Square, Colac Unearthed, and soon in Apollo Bay, operate twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.==================================================================This weekend's C-D-F-N-L action marks the annual Let's Talk Colac round, focusing on men's mental health.The initiative encourages local men to speak up and seek support.Let's Talk Colac representative Janet says a special panel event will be held tonight at the Colac R-S-L.==================================================================The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action has successfully removed a dead whale from Bells Beach.Crews worked closely with the Victorian Fisheries Authority, Traditional Owners, and coastal authorities to safely clear the carcass, which has now been buried offsite to naturally decompose.The complex operation was designed to reduce public safety risks and limit environmental impacts.Despite the removal, an advice message remains in place for surrounding Great Ocean Road beaches due to potential lingering shark activity.==================================================================Community groups across the Colac Otway region are being urged to apply for up to ten-thousand dollars through Telstra’s Connected Communities Grant Program.==================================================================A new Auditor-General’s report has exposed the deteriorating condition of regional government schools.In the Polwarth electorate, three out of four schools are rated poor or worn. Local M-P Richard Riordan says the findings highlight severe neglect.==================================================================AND IN SPORTThe Winchelsea Football Netball Club will celebrate its monumental one-hundred and fiftieth anniversary this weekend.Festivities at Eastern Reserve kick off on Saturday with a milestone luncheon, followed by the senior football clash against North Geelong.Celebrations will continue into the evening with a heritage jumper auction and the naming of a team of the quarter-century.A community family day will wrap up the historic weekend on Sunday.==================================================================Apollo Bay export Kai Clissold enjoyed a stellar weekend with the ball while overseas playing for Martley Cricket Club in the UK.Clissold picked up 5 for 28 from 7.5 overs with the ball.Apollo Bay import Alex Basford also blasted 116 not out from 139 balls.==================================================================The Hampden League's Under Seventeen side has claimed the state title at the Association Championship Finals in Melbourne.Coached by Will Jamison and Josie Ellerton, the team defeated Goulburn Valley by three goals in a thrilling decider.The league's other representatives also shined, with the Under Fifteens finishing fifth and the Under Thirteens reaching the semi-finals.==================================================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for June 23, 2026.===================================A comprehensive inspection of the Colac Otway Shire’s one-hundred and sixty-four-kilometre footpath network is set to begin next Monday, June twenty-nine.Quad bikes fitted with mounted cameras will capture detailed footage of the paths to help council plan effective maintenance and renewal strategies. ======================================================================A major shake-up in coastal land management comes into effect on July the first, with GORCAPA taking control of several Great Ocean Road national parks.======================================================================Farm businesses across southwest Victoria can boost their sustainability through a new Resilient Farming Course launching in August.Offered by four local Landcare networks, the five-day program features expert advice from industry leaders and hands-on learning. ======================================================================Farmers in the Port Campbell and surrounding areas were able to view virtual fencing and smart collar technology on farm.. at a field day last weekAsh Gristede told Ace Radio's Country Today it was a chance to show how it's helping to manage their 700 cow operation at Port Campbell======================================================================It is a massive win for the Terang-Mortlake Bloods, with the State Government announcing a one-hundred-thousand-dollar investment for the Terang Recreation Reserve.======================================================================Whale season is officially underway along the Great Ocean Road, highlighted by a recent Southern Right Whale spotted right off the coast at Port Campbell.The annual winter migration brings a welcome economic lift to coastal businesses during the cooler months. ======================================================================AND IN SPORTThe Corangamite Lions had a mixed weekend of results from its weekend matches against Creswick.The seniors men's side lost 5-0, while the women's side flipped the result to have a 5-nil win.The reserves has a thrilling 4-3 win.======================================================================The Colac Braves put in a competitive effort at Eastern Reserve over the weekend, despite finishing without a win.In local baseball action, the Division One side went down to the Deakin Blues seven runs to two.Meanwhile, it was a much tighter contest in Division Three, with the Braves narrowly losing to the Bellarine Bears five to four.======================================================================It was a tough weekend on the soccer pitch for the Colac Otway Rovers.The senior women's side suffered a five-nil defeat against Corio S-C, while the reserves also went down five-nil to the Bellarine Sharks.===================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for June 22, 2026.===============================New data from the Crime Statistics Agency shows Criminal incidents have risen by 2.8 per cent in the Colac Otway region over the last calendar year.1,394 incidents were recorded for the 12 month period ending in March 2026.Colac itself accounted for 961 incidents, with breach of family violence orders the most reported crime.The Corangamite region recorded a 15.6 per cent rise with 757 incidents recorded.Other theft was the the leading cause of offence with Camperdown accounting for 220 of the incidents.==============================================================Corangamite Shire Mayor Kate Makin has travelled to State Parliament to ensure the region's voice is heard ahead of the upcoming State Election.Joined by C-E-O David Rae, the Mayor met with government and opposition M-Ps to advocate for vital community projects.==============================================================Emergency services were called to a landslide along the Great Ocean Road following heavy rain.The landslip impacted one lane of traffic near Hird Street in Lorne.A State Emergency Service spokesperson confirmed Lorne S-E-S units and VicRoads attended the scene. ==============================================================A severe shark warning has been issued for beaches along the Great Ocean Road following the discovery of a dead whale.The Victorian Fisheries Authority says the carcass is drawing sharks much closer to shore than usual.While Bells Beach has been officially closed, authorities are warning surfers and swimmers to exercise extreme caution at all surrounding beaches. ==============================================================Despite being hit hard by January's severe bushfires and storms, communities in rural areas such as Colac Otway and Corangamite remain the most generous when disaster strikes.New data shows regional areas are highly likely to donate time and money to relief efforts. ==============================================================South West Victorian farmer confidence has taken another hit, with Rabobank's latest quarterly survey showing a continued decline in sentiment.The quarter two results reveal that rising input costs, particularly for fuel and fertiliser, are driving the downturn. ==============================================================AND IN SPORTIn this weekends CDFNL football results it was a one sided weekend on the football field.Lorne had a 124 point win over Western Eagles, Irrewarra-Beeac won by 107 against the Colac Imperials.Alvie won by 66 against Apollo Bay, South Colac beat Otway Districts by 48, and Simpson had a 41 point win over Birregurra in Brad Salmon's 250th match.There was also some smashings on the netball court with Alvie beating Apollo Bay by 42.Lorne smashed Western Eagles by 24, Imperials beat Irrewarra-Beeac by 12.Birregurra won by 9 against Simpson and South Colac narrowly beat Otway Districts by 3.==============================================================A five-goal haul from Jarryn McCormack has seen Colac secure a 132 point win against North Shore in this weekends GFL action.Leigh Gorwell was named Colac's best with the club celebrating 150 senior games for Luke Hillman.==============================================================The Cobden Bombers nearly pulled off a huge upset in this weekends Hampden Football League action going down to South Warrnambool by only 5 points.Campderdown were competitive but ultimately went down by 28 against Terang-Mortlake.On the netball court, Camperdown broke through for its first win of the season against Terang-Mortlake winning by 6.Cobden went down by 14 against South Warrnambool.===============================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for June 19, 2026.=================================A $270,000 infrastructure investment has revitalized the Colac saleyards, which many believe will increase their longevity.Colac Otway Shire councillor Charlie Buchanan says new investment was a huge vote of confidence in the future of the Colac saleyards.==================================================================The Central Reserve Dog Park is progressing with trees already taken down due to their condition.Colac Otway Shire CEO Andrew Tenni says those works will help prep the area.==================================================================The State Labor Government is facing fresh criticism from Member for Polwarth Richard Riordan over persistent overcrowding and reduced seating capacity on the Warrnambool train line.==================================================================Farmers across the Colac Otway and Corangamite shires are celebrating a major policy win, with the Federal Government expanding a key Capital Gains Tax concession.==================================================================Colac’s creative community is being invited to a special discussion to explore the potential for a new local Arts Network.Facilitated by 'Investing in Rural Futures' Community Facilitator Liz Bishop, the gathering aims to gauge local interest and discuss shared issues across the sector.==================================================================A hit comedy celebrating Australia’s first women’s cricket match is coming to Camperdown.The touring production of 'The Deplorables' will hit the Theatre Royal stage on Sunday, August 16. ==================================================================AND IN SPORTIn this weekend's 2026 CDFNL action, the Otway Districts host South Colac.Lorne will play the Western Eagles.Alvie faces Apollo Bay.Irrewarra-Beeac will face the Colac Imperials.AND Birregurra travels to Simpson.==================================================================This weekend in GFNL action the Colac Tigers look to continue to build momentum searching for its third successive win against North Shore.Last time the two met, the Tigers won by 156 in the football.The netballers have a scheduled bye.==================================================================In this weekends Hampden League fixtures, Cobden will travel to take on South Warrnambool.While Camperdown faces a big test in Terang-Mortlake.==================================================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Corangamite Business Award winners will be in headlines later in the day.Here is what is making news for June 18, 2026.================================A recent training exercise at Gibson Steps has tested the high-angle rescue capabilities of local emergency services.V-I-C-S-E-S Port Campbell volunteers joined Victoria Police and paramedics to simulate rescuing a patient trapped at the base of the sheer cliff.================================================================Manufacturing firm C-M-T-P is celebrating after being named a finalist in the Best Off-Site Manufacturing category at the twenty-twenty-six Queensland National Timber and Hardware Association Awards.Management says the recognition reflects the hard work, innovation, and industry-level commitment of the entire workforce. ================================================================The Colac Otway Shire council has had positive feedback stemming from its most recent community survey.Colac Otway Shire CEO Andrew Tenni says the challenge now is to maintain momentum and keep the community happy.================================================================A unique national competition is giving young voices in Wannon a platform to speak on major issues like agriculture, the environment, and cost-of-living pressures. ================================================================A new funding push could help make local roads safer across the Colac Otway and Corangamite regions.Applications are now open for the twenty-twenty-six T-A-C Local Government Grant Program, targeting council-managed areas where pedestrians and cyclists are most at risk. ================================================================Surf Coast Shire is helping young people in Lorne and Winchelsea beat the winter boredom with free, supervised school holiday sessions.================================================================AND IN SPORT Its a big weekend on the pitch for the Colac Otway Rovers.On Saturday the women's team plays Corio SC.The Division 2 side will play Geelong SC, and Division travels to face the Bellarine Sharks.================================================================The Colac Braves are set for a massive weekend of home-ground baseball.This weekend, the club's Division One side hosts the Deakin Blues, while the Division Three squad welcomes the Bellarine Bears.================================================================This weekend the Corangamite Lions will host Creswick SC at the Camperdown Showgrounds.Division 1 currently sits third, looking to stay in touch with second, as the women's sit second on the ladder after seven matches.================================================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for June 17, 2026.================================Otway Tentcare will shortly be reopening asking Colac locals to donate tents to help provide shelter for those affecting by homelessness.Colac Salvation Army's Josiah Van Niekerk says the winter month can be harsh, and any help would be much appreciated.================================================================The Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry says Regional Victoria holds the key to the state’s future prosperity ahead of the next state election.CEO Sally Curtain says decades of underinvestment, rising business costs, workforce shortages and growing infrastructure pressures are limiting the Colac Otway region's potential.================================================================Lismore residents are celebrating the completion of a two-hundred-thousand-dollar footbridge replacement project, set to officially open this Sunday.================================================================The Corangamite Shire Council is set to crown it's 2026 Business Award winners tonight.Mayor Kate Makin says they look forward to the annual celebration. ================================================================Otways communities affected by the January blazes are being urged to tap into a new four-hundred-thousand-dollar funding pool aimed at supporting mental health and bushfire recovery.================================================================Dozens of Forrest residents and landholders braved rain and cold temperatures on Saturday for a community forum titled, "What’s going on with our River?".Hosted by the Corangamite Catchment Management Authority alongside Barwon Water, the event at the Forrest Community Hub detailed the current health and ongoing restoration of the upper Barwon River. ================================================================AND IN SPORTThe future of local sport is back on the agenda for the Colac and District Football Netball League, with A-F-L Barwon launching a major twelve-month review.Titled the Barwon Blueprint, the project will analyze competition structures, club sustainability, and competitive balance. ================================================================A proposed shake-up by Cricket Victoria could see the Colac District Cricket Association move to the Western Waves region.Under a new governance model aimed for the twenty-six twenty-seven season, the C-D-C-A would split from Geelong and Bellarine. ================================================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for June 16, 2026.==============================The Bluewater team is returning home proud after attending the prestigious Aquatics and Recreation Victoria Awards last night.While the local team didn't bring home a win this year, they were honoured to be recognised as finalists alongside some of the industry's most outstanding peers. ============================================================Locals have a unique opportunity to meet with the Victorian Commissioner for L-G-B-T-I-Q-A plus Communities, Joe Ball, later this afternoon.Hosted at the C-O-P-A-C-C Foyer from two P-M, the informal chat invites community members to ask questions regarding L-G-B-T-I-Q-A plus issues and share any experiences of discrimination. ============================================================The Australian Government is assessing more than thirty-six hundred submissions following a massive public consultation on offshore gas exploration.Five areas in the Otway Basin, located offshore from Victoria and Tasmania, have been released for petroleum exploration bidding. ============================================================Soil moisture has picked up in strong dairying areas such as the Colac Otways and Corangamite regions thanks to strong rain over the last fortnight.Agriculture Victoria Seasonal Risk Agronomist Dale Grey says whiles its a positive start to winter, runoff is still expected to pick up in July.============================================================Port Campbell’s own Matt Bowker has been selected as one of just twenty-four surf life saving members nationwide to attend the prestigious twenty-twenty-six National Leaders’ Masterclass.Representing the Port Campbell Surf Life Saving Club, Matt will travel to Adelaide University this July for the intensive annual leadership program. ============================================================Federal Member for Wannon Dan Tehan is currently in Europe as part of a high-level, five-day diplomatic tour focusing on global energy security and defence policy. ============================================================The Warrnambool Coast Guard were activated before sunrise on Saturday... to assist a fishing trawler taking on water off Port Campbell... who were unable to get a bilge pump workingThe multi-agency rescue included HEMS4 and a Marine Search and Rescue jet capable of dropping life rafts============================================================AND IN SPORTIt was a tough weekend on the mound for the Colac Braves.The Division 1 side went down 14-3 to the Lara Wildcats.It was a bit tighter in Division 3, however the Braves still went down 10-7 to the Deakin Blues.============================================================It was a tough weekend on the field for the Colac Otway Rovers.On Friday night the Rovers Division 2 side went down 2-1 to the Deakin DucksOn Saturday the women's side went down 3-2 to the Bellarine Sharks.The Division 3 Senior side also went down 4-1 to Barwon Heads on Sunday.============================================================The Corangamite Lions enjoyed a successful hitout travelling to Bacchus Marsh.The Division 1 side won 2-1 thanks to goals from Roman Fachetti and Andres Diaz.The women's side put on 14 goals in a smashing win - Lara Graham and Lenise Mantell both bagged 5 each.The only blemish on an otherwise perfect day was a 3-0 loss to the Reserves.============================================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for June 12, 2026.==================================Expression of interest are open for the Colac Otway Shire's Australia Day event which made a return to the calendar at the Cressy Aerodrome earlier this year.Shire CEO Andrew Tenni says they are looking to build on the success, and anyone is open to apply to help or host.====================================================================Grade Six students and teachers from Birregurra Primary School are freezing for a cause this Monday, June fifteenth.The school cohort will brave the elements for an Ice Bucket Challenge to raise vital funds and awareness for Motor Neurone Disease. ===================================================================Local Police have said that last weekends activity on the roads was a massive with minimal drug and alcohol offences from the Colac Otway and Surf Coast region.Colac Highway Patrols Jamie Kahle says more than 4,000 drug and alchohol tests were recorded across the region, with police also operating Operation Recreation to inspect local campgrounds and bike trails.====================================================================Colac Otway and Corangamite farmers are being urged to reduce their reliance on imported diesel following a new industry report.Farmers for Climate Action has released a roadmap for transitioning to electrified machinery and local biofuels.====================================================================Travellers heading to the Otways face an open-ended detour following a major landslip on Old Beech Forest Road.The weekend incident south of Gellibrand left severe cracks and a gaping hole in the surface, forcing an indefinite closure.The Colac Otway Shire Council has closed the road between the southern end at McDevitt Siding and the northern end. ====================================================================Colac and South West parents are being urged to remain vigilant about water safety this winter.Kidsafe Victoria C-E-O Sarah Sexton warns that household hazards pose a significant risk, as it takes just a small amount of water and very little time for a young child to drown.====================================================================AND IN SPORTIn this weekends CDFNL matches, South Colac hosts Simpson.The Colac Imperials face the Otway Districts for their FightMND match.Irrewarra-Beeac travels to Apollo Bay.The Western Eagles face a tough test in Alvie.And Birregurra has Lorne.====================================================================The Colac Tigers look to continue winning form in both the netball and football this weekend hosting Geelong West at Central Reserve.The Tigers with be without two of its footy stars with Darcy Lang unavailable and Seb Ross missing through a calf injury.====================================================================In this weekend's Hampden League action, Cobden will play host to Portland.Meanwhile, Camperdown is hitting the road, travelling to Gardens Oval to take on Port Fairy.====================================================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for June 11, 2026.===============================The Colac Mobile Blood Donation Van has rolled into town and will remain parked at the Central Reserve car park on Gravesend Street until Friday, June nineteenth.Organisers are urging Colac Otway residents to roll up their sleeves, as the national demand for blood and plasma continues to grow. ==============================================================A wave of community upgrades is coming to small towns across the region following the announcement of the state government's latest Tiny Towns Fund round.Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney has unveiled twelve local projects, including a fifty-thousand-dollar upgrade for the Cororooke Public Hall.The Kawarren Recreation Reserve has also secured fifty thousand dollars for major development works, while the Yeodene Public Hall will receive over twenty-two thousand dollars for extensive renewal projects.==============================================================Those in and around the Otways are being urged to ensure their firewood purchases this winter are not supporting a black market that is destroying wildlife habitat and removing thousands of trees from forests across the state. Illegal firewood activity is impacting forests across Victoria, particularly north of Shepparton, in the Otways, Grampians and parts of eastern Gippsland.==============================================================Isolated seniors across the Barwon-South Western region are set to receive a much-needed boost of friendship through a new Feros Care initiative.==============================================================The community has celebrated the success of the Farm My School Colac build at Colac Secondary College, one year on from the programs roaring success.Colac Regenerative Farm Manager Catie Tracey says without the community, the event would have been able to happen.==============================================================The Corangamite Shire Year Twelve Winter Ball is returning for twenty-twenty-six, and local students are invited to lead the planning.Council is calling for a committee of Year Twelves to help decide the music, theme, and overall vibe. No prior event experience is needed. ==============================================================AND IN SPORTThe Colac Braves are back in action this weekend with Division 1 hosting the Werribee Giants. Division 3 has the bye.==============================================================The Colac Otway Rovers face the Deakin Ducks in Division 2 this Friday night.Division 3 plays Barwon Heads, and the women's team plays the Bellarine Sharks.==============================================================A huge fortnight for Colac and District Darts Association kicked off last weekend with the Treasure Hunters Cup.Glenn Beall tookout first place in the mens, Gale Harmsworth won the women's, and Lockie Murrell won the juniors.Following on from the success of the event last weekend the CDDA will host its 5-a-side tournament this weekend with throwers from all across the state and more than 150 total players expected.==============================================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for June 10, 2026.================================36 new houses will be built in Colac thanks to construction beginning on a new Sinclair-Armstrong Street Development.Project Developer Adam Cole says the Nook officially entered Stage 1 yesterday, selling out after launching in January.================================================================Port Campbell police Acting Sergeant Troy Beames has been formally recognized for saving two lives in a dramatic coastal rescue.================================================================A new virtual experience at Colac Cemetery will soon bring local history to life.Geelong Cemeteries Trust CEO Dean Matthews says  a free mobile app will share hundreds of pre-nineteen-hundreds life stories, gathered by the Colac and District Family History Group.================================================================Colac Otway Shire Mayor and G21 Chair Jason Schram is spearheading a campaign for the Victorian Government to overhaul coastal vegetation management rules.================================================================Farmers impacted by the January bushfires in Carlisle River and Gellibrand are being reminded that vital recovery support remains available.Rural Assistance Commissioner Peter Tuohey says recovery can take years, and financial help can ease the burden. ================================================================Corangamite Shire residents are invited to a free morning tea to raise awareness about elder abuse.Mayor Kate Makin says World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on Monday, June fifteenth, is a vital opportunity to learn how to recognise the signs of mistreatment.================================================================AND IN SPORTSeveral Rovers juniors have been crowned winners at the Football Victoria Country Championships in Geelong over Kings Birthday weekend.Solomon Coventry captained the under 11s to a win.Dash Bannan also led the under 14s to a win with Jasper Milner as a teammate.Samuel Irunga played in a win in the under 12s category.================================================================A host of Colac and District cricketers are starring overseas in English Cricket Leagues.Apollo Bay cricketer Pat Grimmer and his Sandford St Martin teammates sit on top of the ladder in the Cherwell Cricket League.Apollo Bay teammate Kai Clissold has picked up 9 wickets in his opening 7 games for Martley Cricket Club in the Worcestershire County League.================================================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for June 09, 2026.=================================Camperdown police have led a regional crackdown on impaired drivers, detecting three major drink-driving offences in recent days.Among those intercepted was a thirty-six-year-old Corangamite man who refused a preliminary breath test on the Hamilton Highway at Lismore, facing a mandatory two-year license disqualification. ==================================================================A motorcyclist faces a heavy penalty after being caught traveling at over one hundred and fifty kilometers an hour near Colac.Highway patrol officers intercepted the twenty-two-year-old Highton man on the Princes Highway at Warncoort on Monday morning during Operation Regal.==================================================================Plans to complete the new Twelve Apostles Visitor Centre have drawn sharp criticism from Member for Polwarth Richard Riordan.==================================================================Fish Aggregation devices have been laid off the Otways Coast in the hopes of attracting new and different fish for local anglers,VFA CEO Travis Dowling says they look like floating discs and can be found near Lorne, and Apollo Bay.==================================================================Communities across the Otways are set to benefit from enhanced bushfire protection as Forest Fire Management Victoria expands its network of remote heli-dip tank sites.The specialized tanks, holding up to fifty thousand liters of water, can slash helicopter refill turnaround times by up to fifteen minutes. ==================================================================Colac and South West drivers are being urged to watch for wildlife, with new data revealing winter as the peak period for animal collisions.Insurance giant A-A-M-I received over twenty-four thousand wildlife claims last year, with May, June, and July identified as the worst months. ==================================================================AND IN SPORTThe Colac and District league tookout a netball win over the GDFNL on Saturday 58-53 thanks to a best on court performance from Millie Sibley.The footballers however suffered a 106 point defeat with Jett Price named Colac's best afield.==================================================================The Colac Tigers have jumped into fifth spot in the GFNL football after a massive win against Bell Park.The tigers won by 21 off the back of a best-on-ground 4 goal performance from Darcy Lang.The Tigers girls also had a win on the court 56-51.==================================================================Cobden has bragging rights in both football and netball codes after a big day at Camperdown.The footballers secured their first win of the season with a thrilling 5 point victory.The netballers also had a big win, defeating Camperdown by 22 goals.==================================================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

3CS/Mixx FM News Department <[email protected]>12:11 PM (4 hours ago)to ColacHi team,Here is what is making news for June 03, 2026.=================================Most Dairy Farmers in the sector have been left disappointed by the opening milk prices, with industry leaders also saying some processors are struggling too.Australian Dairy Farmers President and Pomborneit farmer Ben Bennett says most farmers were hoping for a price above 10 dollars per kilogram of milk solids but have had to settle for a lost less.==================================================================A sixty-year-old Camperdown man accused of holding a New South Wales woman captive at gunpoint for several days has been denied bail.==================================================================Following the devastating January bushfires, Otways residents are set to benefit from the C-F-A’s highly successful drone trial.The Remote Piloted Aircraft program provides fireground commanders with live aerial intelligence, including thermal imaging to detect hidden hotspots at night.==================================================================Operation Regal will take place on the regions roads as the police up their presence over the King's Birthday long weekend.Colac Highway Policeman Jamie Kahle says local officers will also work in partnership with DEECA to monitor the states forests.==================================================================Corangamite Shire Council has unveiled the Curdies River Flood Study, a collaborative project aimed at reducing regional environmental risks.==================================================================Six months on from the devastating Streatham-Skipton bushfires, a free community recovery event is being held at the Skipton Recreation Reserve.Jointly hosted by the Corangamite and Pyrenees Shire Councils, the gathering invites all community members to share a meal and discuss the ongoing recovery process. ==================================================================AND IN SPORTWinchelsea Bowls Club’s Max Heaton-Harris has been invited to the Bowls Victoria State Training Day on June twenty-seventh.The high-stakes hit-out at Deer Park Bowls Club gives state-side hopefuls a major opportunity to impress selectors.While the final squad is yet to be decided, standout performers will target the upcoming representative series against New South Wales and Western Australia.==================================================================Port Campbell Surf Life Saving Club's Andrew Vogels has been awarded life membership of the Victorian Surfboat Rowers League.The honor recognizes his thirty-four years of dedicated service as a championship-winning competitor, coach, and committee member.==================================================================The Junior Country Championships kick off in Geelong this King's Birthday weekend with several Colac Rovers players selected.Representing the South West Association are Mackenzie Rocka and Ariah Johnstone.For Football Victoria Geelong, Solomon Coventry captains the under-elevens, Samuel Irunga joins the under-twelves, Rocco Aylett is in the under-thirteens, while Jasper Milner and captain Dash Bannan line up for the under-fourteens.==================================================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for June 05, 2026.=====================================The R-A-C-V has launched its My Country Road survey, urging residents across the Colac Otway and Corangamite Shires to flag safety concerns on dangerous regional routes.==========================================================================Colac Otway and Corangamite drivers are being urged to exercise extreme caution on the roads as winter conditions and King's Birthday long weekend traffic create hazardous driving environments.==========================================================================National parks operated by Parks Victoria will be closed this long weekend as workers go on strike disputing pay with the State Government.Colac Otway Shire CEO Andrew Tenni says while it is disappointing given the start to the year the region has had in terms of tourism, there will still be some offerings for those looking to capitalise on the long weekend.==========================================================================The Lorne Pier has officially reopened to the public just in time for the busy long weekend rush.While the pier itself is fully accessible, visitors are reminded that construction fencing and closures remain active around the broader work site.==========================================================================The Push-Up Challenge is officially underway, with the team at headspace Colac leading the local charge.Over the next twenty-four days, participants will complete three thousand three hundred and seven push-ups, a number honoring the lives lost to suicide in Australia in twenty-twenty-four. ==========================================================================Black field crickets remain active in the south west, as a dry and warm autumn provided favourable conditions.Dairy extension officer Michele Jolliffe says identifying and controlling this native species now can help prevent future damage to pastures and crops.==========================================================================AND IN SPORTThe Colac District Football Netball League has finalized its senior squads for this weekend's highly anticipated interleague clash against the Geelong District League.Leading the senior netballers at Winchelsea's Eastern Reserve is captain Hayley Foster, supported by vice-captain Janelle Monaghan.Meanwhile, the senior football side will be led by co-captains Elijah Reid and Sam Mulgrew, alongside vice-captain Luke O’Shannassy.Both matches are scheduled to kick off this Saturday at two p-m.==========================================================================Kardinia Park will continue to host the Geelong Football Netball League grand finals until at least the end of twenty-twenty-eight.A new three-year agreement has been secured by A-F-L Barwon, the Geelong Cats, and the Kardinia Park Stadium Trust.The iconic G-M-H-B-A Stadium remains the only A-F-L venue in Victoria to host a community league decider, ensuring local players and fans experience a world-class stage.==========================================================================This weekends Hampden League sees a crosstown rivalry match for the regions teams.Camperdown will host Cobden in a must win clash for both sides.==========================================================================This weekend the Colac Tigers look to get back on the winners list as they take on Bell Park.If the Tigers beat Bell Park in the football, they will leapfrog them into fifth spot.==========================================================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for June 03, 2026.================================Warrnambool rail line passengers are adjusting to a major overhaul of the regional public transport network following the return of the V/Line booking system.================================================================A taskforce targeting environmental destruction has charged five men for constructing illegal trailbike tracks on protected public land in the Otways.================================================================Bulla Dairy Foods has announced its opening farmgate milk price for the 2026–2027 season at $9.15 to $9.95 per kilogram of milk solids.Bulla Dairy Foods Director and Acting CEO James Downey says ongoing feedback from farmers has helped the company maintain a competitive price amid rising input costs.================================================================Corangamite Shire’s new Positive Ageing, Access and Inclusion Reference Group is driving community-led improvements for elderly residents and people with disabilities.Since forming in January, the committee has met twice to help guide council infrastructure projects and services. ================================================================A major community consultation phase has launched as Barwon Water designs its long-term plan to secure regional water resources for the next half-century.================================================================Anam Cara Colac has officially launched its Annual Community Appeal to help sustain its vital hospice services.The community-funded facility provides compassionate palliative care and dignity for residents living with life-limiting illnesses. ================================================================AND IN SPORTColac Golf Club member Fiona Scott has taken out the Winchelsea Women’s Ladies Open  A Grade title with a fabulous round of 85.Beeac Golf Clubs Lyndal McLean also scored Hole-In-One  at the Quarry.================================================================The Hampden League had a massive day out at the Netball Victoria Western zone titles in Warrnambool.The league took out the Under 13 Championship , Under 15 Championship, Under 15 Reserves and Under 17 Championship TitlesThey will now compete at the Melbourne State Titles in a few weeks time.================================================================The twenty-twenty-six Annual Treasure Hunters Open darts tournament is coming to Commerce Hall at the Colac Showgrounds this Sunday.Open exclusively to past C-D-D-A members and Colac district residents, the free event features a thousand-dollar prize pool.================================================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for June 2, 2026.===============================Apostle Whey Cheese has taken out the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Victorian Small Business Awards.Founder Julian Benson says the major accolade is a testament to his dedicated staff for helping create a much-loved local product.==============================================================The Camperdown Fire Brigade has celebrated the dedication of its volunteers at its annual presentation night.Service milestones ranging from ten to forty-five years were recognized, alongside eleven volunteers who received the prestigious National Medal for long and diligent service.==============================================================Colac's cinema is undergoing a major management transition, closing for up to eight weeks for vital facility upgrades. ==============================================================The Corangamite Shire is rallying residents to support Camperdown and Port Campbell after both towns reached the finals of the Victorian Top Tourism Town Awards.==============================================================Lorne’s ongoing battle with bin-raiding cockatoos could soon be over, with five hundred specialized "bin aprons" hitting the town's red-lid bins.Developed by the Lorne Men’s Shed, the recycled plastic attachments fit over the lids, preventing the clever birds from gaining a grip.==============================================================Regional councils are demanding urgent upgrades to aging telecommunications networks following severe network failures during recent natural disasters.A collective representing peri-urban municipalities has detailed the escalating public safety risks in a submission to the summer fires inquiry.The report highlights severe connectivity blackouts during the January floods at Wye River and Lorne, where grid congestion left tourists and residents unable to receive timely emergency alerts or contact families.==============================================================AND IN SPORTIn the weekends Colac Otway Rovers fixtures - Division 2 went down 3-1 to Drysdale with Desire Irunga scoring the only major.In Division 3 Nathan Haynes and Jimson Johnny scored in the 2-2 draw.The women's side went down 5-0 to Surf Coast on Saturday.==============================================================It was a tough weekend on the diamond for the Colac Braves, with both baseball divisions suffering losses.Division One fell fourteen-three on the road against the Lara Wildcats, while Division Three went down in a closer ten-seven battle against Deakin.==============================================================It was a high scoring encounter in the Corangamite Lions fixture against the Forest Rangers.Matthew Lyne and Roman Fachetti both scored braces however it wasn't enough as they went down 5-4.Division 2 lost 2-1, and the senior women's side went down 5-1.==============================================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for June 1, 2026.===============================An invitation is open for residents across the South West to help shape regional environmental decisions. The Corangamite Catchment Management Authority is expanding its Community Engagement Network and wants to recruit people from diverse backgrounds.==============================================================27 new Australians were awarded Australian Citizenship at the latest intake at COPACC on Friday.Among the new citizens was Rob Watson, who moved from England 28 years ago.==============================================================The dangerous intersection of Deans Creek Road and Pound Road will undergo major safety upgrades following a funding boost from the Victorian Government.Identified as a high-risk area for drivers failing to give way, the site saw a crash as recently as twenty-twenty-four. ==============================================================Not-for-profit organisations in Camperdown and Winchelsea are set to benefit from a major national funding boost.The Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal has awarded more than one point one million dollars in grants across the country, with over four hundred thousand dollars allocated to twenty-nine Victorian communities. ==============================================================After its roaring success with more than 1400 participants, KidsFest Colac is back on the agenda for 2026.rob watsonSalvation Army's Josiah Van Niekerk says the event returns to Bluewater Leisure Centre on September 30th looking to build on last years inaugural instalment.==============================================================State Emergency Service volunteers have completed a complex early Saturday morning rescue after a vehicle rolled onto its side and wedged against a tree at Scotts Creek.Emergency crews worked in tight conditions on the Timboon-Colac Road to free an eleven-year-old boy through the rear window with minor injuries. ==============================================================AND IN SPORTIn the weekend's CDFNL action the Otway Districts continued its winning momentum on the netball court against Apollo Bay.Irrewarra-Beeac had a convincing win against the Western Eagles.Colac Imperials had a narrow win over South Colac.Birregurra made lightwork of Alvie, and Lorne has a resounding win over Simpson.On the football field Otway won by 22.Colac Imps beat South by 18.Alvie beat Birregurra by 17.Lorne had an 11 point win over Simpson. and Irrewarra-Beeac smashed the Eagles by 85.==============================================================The Colac Tigers were competitive but went down by 9 in the football and 11 in the netball against St Joseph's in round 8 GFNL action.The Tigers had a 17 point lead in the football going into the final quarter before being overrun by St Joseph's.==============================================================It was a rough weekend for the regions Hampden League football teams with both sides suffering big losses.Cobden went down to Koroit by 124 points, while Camperdown suffered a 45 point loss to Portland.Both sides also lost in the netball with Cobden going down by 47 and Camperdown losing by 8.==============================================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for May 29, 2026.====================================The Corangamite Shire has taken action to officially move on the decommissioned Camperdown Saleyards site.Corangamite Shire Mayor Kate Makin says council will still advocate for a specialised truck wash to remain in Camperdown.========================================================================Winter tuna fishing is off to a spectacular start in Apollo Bay following the capture of a massive one-hundred-and-seven-kilogram southern bluefin tuna.The giant fish was reeled in during a local charter trip after an exhausting two-hour battle right at dusk.========================================================================A Camperdown man has been fined one thousand dollars after pleading guilty to making a death threat during a civil dispute over car parts.The Warrnambool Magistrates’ Court heard the intoxicated man threatened to slit a resident's throat while police were responding to a disturbance. ========================================================================The benefits of strategic fuel management are being highlighted in the Otways following a highly challenging summer bushfire season.Forest Fire Management Victoria reports that previous fuel treatments successfully moderated the speed and intensity of multiple fires in the region, allowing crews to safely build control lines. ========================================================================The twenty-twenty-six T-A-C Club Rewards Program has officially launched at the Timboon Demons Football Netball Club.TAC Head of Community, Fin Bird says the seven hundred thousand dollar initiative backs grassroots clubs across Victoria to lead vital road safety conversations and help reduce regional road trauma.========================================================================Green grass is back in the grounds across the South West after a dry 18 to 24 months.Scotts Creek Farmer Jamie Vogels says some good conditions have allowed farmers to replenish feed stocks.========================================================================AND IN SPORTThis weekend sets up a blockbuster weekend in the CDFNL.Otway Districts host Apollo Bay,The Cat-or-Roo cup takes place against with South Colac hosting the Colac Imperials.Alvie play Birregurra,Irrewarra-Beeac looks to get back on the winners list against the Western Eagles.AND the Lorne Dolphins travel to Simpson.========================================================================Its a big test this weekend for Colac and St Joseph's as the Tigers travel to Herne Hill.In the football currently the St Joseph's sit fourth, and the Tigers fifth. ========================================================================Hampden League football and netball resumes this weekend after last weekends interleague bye.Cobden hosts the red-hot Koroit.The Camperdown netballers are searching for their first season win as they travel to Portland.========================================================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for May 28, 2026.==================================Safety upgrades are underway at Loch Ard Gorge as authorities work toward reopening beach access by October this year.The Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority is undertaking critical repairs after independent assessments identified a high risk of rock fall and serious structural faults in the existing staircase. ====================================================================Colac is set to receive a vibrant new painting as part of the Shire Council's public art program.An artist has now been officially selected for the piece.Mayor Jason Schram says the high quality of submissions received for the project was incredibly impressive.====================================================================Local Police are reminding road users to drive safely as cooler conditions kick in across the region.Colac Police Sergeant Jake Andrews says things such as visibility and driving to the conditions are crucial in reducing the risk of road incidents.====================================================================The Corangamite Shire Council has released its sixty-two point six million dollar draft budget for public feedback.The proposed plan features a nineteen million dollar capital works program, with nearly ten million dollars dedicated specifically to road renewals and upgrades across the shire.====================================================================Colac Otway Shire Council is inviting public feedback on its newly released Draft Economic Development Framework.The long-term plan aims to guide how the council supports local jobs, business growth, and future investment across the region. ====================================================================As Colac Otway and Corangamite residents are getting a taste of winter weather - the state’s environmental watchdog, EPA Victoria, has some handy tips about how to get the most out of your wood heater and reduce smoke going into the air.Manager of Air, Odour and noise sciences from the EPA Michael Ernest says more information can be found on their website.====================================================================AND IN SPORTPrincetown cricket export Millie Illingworth has officially secured her spot in the Victorian state women's squad for the upcoming twenty-twenty-six, twenty-twenty-seven season.The fast bowler is looking to build on her success after taking four wickets across five matches in the Women's National Cricket League last year.====================================================================This weekend the Colac Braves will hit the road with Division 1 travelling to Lara.Division 3 will search for back to back wins travelling to Deakin University this weekend.====================================================================A massive Sunday of local soccer awaits as the Corangamite Lions clash with the Forest Rangers across multiple divisions.In men's Division One, the second-placed Rangers take on the third-placed Lions, while the women's fixture promises a top-of-the-table battle.====================================================================In local soccer this weekend, the Colac Otway Rovers women's side takes on Surf Coast F-C,while the Division Two and Three men’s teams travel away to face Drysdale.====================================================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for May 27, 2026.=================================Shock new polling suggests One Nation could become the official federal opposition, but local Member for Polwarth Richard Riordan remains unconvinced they will crack the South West.==================================================================The Corangamite Catchment Management Authority is inviting the public to a free event in Forrest to discuss the health of the Upper Barwon River.Situated in the heart of the Otways, Forrest serves as a key location for the river's upper catchments.The community information session will run from nine-thirty A-M to one-thirty P-M on Saturday, June thirteen, at the Forrest Community Hub. ==================================================================Fallow deer, a species highly familiar to hunters in the Colac Otway and Corangamite regions, were the second most harvested deer in Victoria last year.==================================================================The State Opposition has promised to boost infrastructure spending across South West Victoria if they win the upcoming state election later this year.==================================================================Blaze Aid is still searching for Gellibrand and Kawarren are still urgently looking for volunteers to help communities recover after natural disasters by rebuilding fencing.The Gellibrand camp supports, Gellibrand, Carlisle River, Barongarook, Barongarook West, Beech Forest, Gerangamete, Irrewillipe East and Kawarren.==================================================================Tickets are now officially on sale for Red Door Theatre Company's & Juliet which promises to thrill for all ages.The show features a soundtrack packed with iconic pop hits from legendary songwriter Max Martin, including songs made famous by artists such as Britney Spears, Backstreet Boys, Katy Perry, and Bon Jovi, & Juliet.==================================================================AND IN SPORTA new top-tier bowls competition could soon hit the region, with a West Coast Bowls Premier League officially on the table.Driven by players from Colac, Camperdown, Mortlake, and Warrnambool, the proposal aims to create a higher standard of local competition.West Coast Bowls Region Chairperson Peter Inglis says a premier league would give emerging talent something to aspire to, keeping top bowlers from leaving for Geelong.The format is currently being developed before seeking official board endorsement.==================================================================The twenty-twenty-six Melbourne to Apollo Bay Yacht Race has wrapped up with thrilling results along the southern Victorian coastline.Thirty-two boats and over two hundred sailors tackled the fifty-two nautical mile course.The Phoenix Forty-Nine, skippered by Brenton Carnell from the Royal Geelong Yacht Club, claimed monohull line honours after leading for most of the race.However, the overall AMS handicap victory and the Apollo Bay Perpetual Cup went to The Kraken, a Sydney Thirty-Two skippered by Ryan Walker, who credited his crew's experience and tactical planning.==================================================================The Colac and District Football Netball League has officially announced its Senior Netball squad for the 2026 Interleague campaign.Ten local stars have been selected to represent the region, including Janelle and Brittany Monaghan, alongside Brooke Hawkins and Georgia Robinson.Kelsey Jeffreys will lead the squad as head coach, supported by team manager Jess Downard.The C-D-F-N-L has congratulated all selected players as they prepare for the upcoming competition.==================================================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for May 26, 2026.==============================More than $13,000 dollars has been raised following on from the Colac Area Health Foundation's Golf Day at the Colac Golf Course on Friday.Colac Area Health Foundation's Ami Hillage says the total couldn't have been able to raise the funds without the support from Commonwealth Bank as the event sponsor and other food and prize Sponsors============================================================With prolonged dry weather exposing sediment in dams across South West Victoria, many farmers are considering a clean-out.============================================================Colac Otway local Lawrence Maskill has been appointed as Rural Aid’s new dedicated counselor and community representative for South West Victoria.============================================================A concerning pattern of break-ins has emerged targeting local sporting clubs, with two separate venues hit just last week.The West Warrion club has reported its second break-in in six months, with thieves stealing a first aid kit, fuel drums, a battery charger, and even a security camera.Meanwhile, the Irrewarra-Beeac Football and Netball Club was also targeted, reporting a break-in last Thursday night.============================================================Lorne’s Stribling Reserve is the heartbeat of the local community, but it needs your help to stay in local hands.The Stribling Reserve Community Asset Committee is urgently seeking new volunteer members to bring fresh energy and ideas.If the committee cannot recruit enough local residents, the day-to-day management of the facility will likely revert to the Surf Coast Shire. ============================================================V/Line passengers on the Geelong and Warrnambool lines are being urged to plan ahead, with major infrastructure works set to disrupt services from this tomorrow through to Friday, May 29th.============================================================AND IN SPORTTwo Colac and District footballers have made the Victorian Under 14s football squad set to play in the National Championships in July.Lorne's Zavier Hollmer and Colac Tigers footballer Nick Jukawics were selected from a pool of 800 boys to feature in the side.============================================================In this weekend's baseball action the Colac Braves put in a good showing in both grades.Division 1 went down 6-10 to the Ballarat Royals while Division 3 had a win 9-nil against Bacchus Marsh.============================================================The Colac Otway Rovers nearly pulled off a huge comeback win over the weekend with two goals in the final 6 minutes to level the scores 3-3 against Barwon Heads.The Rovers were 3-1 down in the 83rd minute before Oaklee Balboni and Tim Brain scored.In other club news Football Victoria named Colac Otway Rovers AFC as Club Changer Club of the Month for May, recognising the club’s incredible growth, volunteer spirit and commitment to creating inclusive football opportunities in regional Victoria.============================================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for May 25, 2026.===================================The property market surrounding Camperdown and Boorcan is experiencing a significant boom following a flurry of major dairy farm sales.Most notably, a massive six-hundred-and-thirty-seven-hectare aggregation milking eight hundred cows has been snapped up by a neighboring agricultural family.Nearby, a three-hundred-hectare corporate farm was secured by an interstate buyer relocating from New South Wales.======================================================================South West Sport is running the twenty-twenty-six Regional Community Sport Census.Corangamite Shire Deputy Mayor Laurie Hickey says Local clubs and volunteers can complete the fifteen-minute online survey to help shape future facility upgrades and support programs.======================================================================Corangamite Catchment Management Authority volunteers have converged this month for specialized training to ensure the absolute accuracy of local citizen science data.======================================================================The Aireys Inlet community has expressed deep frustration after being entirely left out of the latest state budget funding pool.Despite a high-risk summer fire season and land along the Great Ocean Road being acquired back in twenty-eighteen, local C-F-A volunteers are still being forced to operate out of an aging nineteen-eighties facility. ======================================================================Farmers across the Colac Otway and Corangamite shires are being reminded that strict rules apply to the use of drones for aerial chemical spraying.Agriculture Victoria emphasizes that remotely piloted aircraft must comply with the same chemical laws as traditional crop dusters. ======================================================================The removal of the Governments Black Spots programs from the Budget will be contended in coming weeks.Member for Wannon Dan Tehan says the mobile coverage upgrades and works such as the ones recently completed in Mount Noorat are crucial for small towns especially during emergency's such as the fires in the Otways earlier this year.======================================================================AND IN SPORTThe Colac Golf Club's fairytale return to Division 1 pennant golf has come to an end with the club finishing runners up after a weekend loss in the Grand Final to Barwon Heads.Barwon Heads won the Division 1 final 5-2 at Lonsdale Links.======================================================================The Colac Imperials were the big winners in this weekends CDFNL action with a 105 point win over Simpson.In other results Alvie caused a 19 point upset over Lorne, Birregurra also upset Irrewarra-Beeac.In other football results South Colac beat Apollo Bay, and the Western Eagles beat Otway Districts by 55.In the A Grade netball - Otway had a thrilling win over Otway Districts, Birregurra beat Irrewarra-Beeac.South Colac was too strong for Apollo Bay, Colac Imperials had a win over Simpson and Lorne defeated Alvie by 2 goals.======================================================================The Colac Tigers enjoyed a 156 point win over North Shore on Saturday.Adam Garner starred in his return from injury booting 5 goals.The percentage boosting win has Colac sitting 5th with a 3-3 record.======================================================================The Hampden League has secured a mixed bag of results in their weekend interleague clash against Ballarat.The under-twenty-three footballers claimed a hard-fought nine-point win, while the under-seventeen boys went down by thirty-two points.On the netball court, the under-twenty-threes played out a thrilling draw. Meanwhile, the under-eighteen girls' footy side celebrated a nail-biting one-point victory.======================================================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for May 22, 2026.===================================A former general practitioner from Colac has been slapped with a five-year ban from practicing medicine following a tribunal ruling on professional misconduct.======================================================================Ambulance response times are improving across the Barwon South West, with paramedics reaching life-threatening cases faster thanks to a major drop in hospital gridlock.======================================================================A major joint research project by the C-F-A and Forest Fire Management Victoria has revealed crucial data on how fuel management slows down extreme blazes.======================================================================Colac's SES Unit is on the hunt for more members to join its team.They are currently recruiting for a range of exciting roles including flood and storm response, search and rescue, community education and more.VICSES says becoming part of the team means you will help your community, make new friends, learn new skills, and experience new challenges.======================================================================The South West Victoria Alliance has taken its pre-election push to the Shadow Ministry.Deputy Corangamite Shire Mayor Laurie Hickey met with Coalition politicians this week, lobbying for a one-billion-dollar Regional Growth and Liveability Fund.======================================================================Footpath renewal works have officially commenced at Colac’s Memorial Square to improve safety and accessibility.Funded through the council's Capital Works Program, the project will fix uneven surfaces and trip hazards by resurfacing the asphalt paths and realigning the historic bluestone edging.======================================================================AND IN SPORTThe local lawn bowls landscape is set for a shake-up following a new competition structure proposal for the twenty-six, twenty-seven pennant season.Under the plan, Weekend Pennant Division One will contract to six teams over fifteen rounds, while Midweek Pennant will feature a ten-team top tier. ======================================================================In this weekends CDFNL action, a full round of fixtures is in order.Colac Imperials host Simpson.Apollo Bay plays South Colac.Western Eagles are back at Irrewillipe against Otway District.Birregurra play Irrewarra-Beeac.and Lorne face Alvie in a mouthwatering clash.======================================================================This weekend the Colac Tigers take on the North Shore Seagulls at home.The Colac Tigers netballers have the week off due to North Shore not fielding an A Grade side.======================================================================Football Victoria has finalized the senior men’s divisions for the Geelong competition.The Colac Otway Rovers officially locked into both League Two and League Three for the upcoming season.======================================================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for May 21, 2026.==================================Anti-violence advocate and football legend Phil Cleary is headed to Camperdown next month to headline a powerful community presentation.Following the tragic murder of his sister Vicki in the late nineteen-eighties, Cleary has dedicated his life to addressing Australia's domestic violence epidemic. ====================================================================A major agricultural legal battle in the South West has been delayed, with a Cobden primary producer and their farming enterprise set to face a wave of new water-related charges.====================================================================Colac and Elliminyt have officially taken out the title of Victoria's top fundraising postcode for the anti-bullying foundation, Dolly’s Dream.====================================================================The latest Situation and Outlook Report from Dairy Australia reveals the industry has steadied over the 2025-26 year, although global uncertainty is threatening late season gains for Colac Otway and Corangamite producers.====================================================================Time is running out for local business owners to register for a free information session aimed at tackling regional worker shortages.Co-hosted by the Colac Otway Shire Council and the local Chamber of Commerce, the event will explore various overseas visa worker schemes. ====================================================================A thirty-four-year-old Colac sheep shearer has been sentenced to three-and-a-half years behind bars following a violent, jealousy-fueled home invasion.====================================================================AND IN SPORTIn this weekend's baseball matchups the Colac Braves take on the Ballarat Royals at home in the firsts.While in Division 3 the Braves are hosts to the Bacchus Marsh Tigers.====================================================================The Hampden League is in its final stages of preparation as the Bottle Greens gear up to renew their fierce interleague rivalry with Ballarat this Saturday.Now in its fourth year, the representative fixture at Reid Oval will feature under-twenty-three and under-seventeen boys' football, a girls' footy clash, and for the first time ever, an under-twenty-three netball contest.====================================================================Colac Cricket Club will be without one of its co-captains for 2026-27 with Will Ruddell officially signing for Grovedale CC.Ruddell was the fourth highest runscorer in Colac South West Premier Cricket last season scoring 644 runs at 42.9 also picking up 20 wickets at 25.====================================================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making  news for May 20, 2026.===============================Powercor has completed construction on a permanent quick-connection point for generators in Apollo Bay to combat prolonged blackouts.The town is traditionally supplied by two forty-kilometer powerlines running through the dense, steep terrain of the Great Otway National Park, making storm repairs highly difficult.==============================================================The Victorian Fisheries Authority has committed to forming a new Carp Action Alliance which aims to eradicate the fish from local waterways such as Lake Colac.VFA CEO Travis Dowling says the network will bring experts and community leaders together to mobilize meaningful action against invasive carp.==============================================================Farmers, farm workers and agricultural business employees impacted by the ongoing drought conditions in the south west can apply to be part of the Corangamite Catchment Management Authority Drought Employment Program this winter.Corangamite CMA CEO Amber Clarke says the Drought Employment Program will play an important role in supporting farmers and the community.==============================================================Apollo Bay residents and visitors are being advised not to panic if they notice an influx of drones operating over the local coastline this week.A team of university researchers is currently in town to carry out long-range drone capability testing. ==============================================================The Surf Coast Shire is set to receive a massive environmental facelift, with council unveiling a brand-new public tree-planting initiative.==============================================================The final weekend of the Camperdown Theatre Company’s comedy show 'Noises Off' kicks off tomorrow night.Local performers will perform at the Theatre Royal with Michael Frayn's Noises Off. ==============================================================AND IN SPORTThe Colac District Cricket Association’s highly anticipated Winter Academy officially kicks off next Monday, May twenty-fifth.Running for twelve weeks at the Eastern Reserve Indoor Facility, the elite coaching program will see the region's most committed under-thirteen, fifteen, and seventeen cricketers hit the nets.==============================================================The Heytesbury Stockfeeds Simpson Speedway has officially released its highly anticipated calendar for the upcoming twenty-twenty-six, twenty-twenty-seven season.Running from December through to April, the action kicks off on December fifth with Jim’s Race, featuring Wingless Sprints, Super Rods, and Vintages.==============================================================Colac's AFL listed talent was able to hit the scoreboard in the VFL and WAFL fixtures over the weekend.Brisbane's Will McLachlan snagged two goals against Geelong while Peel Thunder's Tobyn Murray kicked one in its win over East Fremantle.==============================================================The Colac Otway Rovers have launched a brand-new All-Abilities soccer program.Sessions run every Saturday from ten to eleven A-M at the Beeac Recreation Reserve. ==============================================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for May 19, 2026.===================================Frontline volunteer positions are officially opening up in our immediate district, with Ambulance Victoria looking to boost its volunteer response teams in Port Campbell and Simpson.======================================================================A Cobden woman with a history of traffic offences has faced court after breaching her driving ban and being caught with illegal drugs.Police uncovered methamphetamine at her home late last year, weeks before security cameras captured her driving an unlicensed vehicle to a local service station. ======================================================================The United Dairyfarmers of Victoria will once again operate as a single entity, following a reconciliation with breakaway group Dairy Farmers Victoria.Dairy Farmers Victoria President and Larpent local says the splinter group was originally established amid industry frustration over funding cuts to the sector by the Victorian Farmers Federation.======================================================================The Warrnambool rail line and its lack of allocated funding in the proposed State budget was brought up in parliament by Member for Polwarth Richard Riordan.Mr Riordan says the service quality has dropped to its lowest functionality in its more than 150 years of history.======================================================================The state government is investing twenty-eight million dollars in high-tech road safety cameras to crack down on dangerous driving in areas such as the COLAC OTWAY REGION.TAC CEO Tracey Slatter says by marking National Road Safety Week, the T-A-C funded package includes new mobile trailers for high-risk regional roads.======================================================================A home on Estcourt Street in Terang has been targeted in a terrifying shooting incident for the third time.Police say heavy shotgun pellets destroyed the building's guttering in the latest attack, which occurred near the town's main street. ======================================================================AND IN SPORTIt was a huge weekend for the Colac Otway Rovers as they celebrated the 150 game milestone for club stalwart Lincoln Alfred in style.Alfred opened the scoring onslaught against Ocean Grove with a penalty in the 5 minute of the match.The Rovers went on to win the match 5-1.The reserves went down 8-0 to Barwon Heads.======================================================================It was a tough weekend on the mound for the Colac Braves with the Division 1 side going down 18-3.It was a high scoring encounter in Division 3 as East Belmont defeated the Braves 20-12.======================================================================It was an unfortunate weekend for the Corangamite Lions as both men's sides went down by a single goal in their fixture against Ballarat SC.The seniors lost 1-0, while the reserves went down 2-1.The women's side won their match-up 3-0.======================================================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for May 18, 2026.================================A sixty-year-old man has been hospitalized following a serious dog attack in Camperdown.Emergency services were called to Manifold Street following reports of an animal-related incident. ================================================================A prominent fishing co-operative on the Great Ocean Road has been fined fifteen thousand dollars for breaching child employment laws.The Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Co-Operative pleaded guilty in the Magistrates’ Court to thirteen offences involving three children under the age of fifteen. ================================================================Colac's search for its newest group of volunteers is underway with the countdown on for the Colac Volunteer Expo this week.The event will be held at COPACC on Tuesday.Salvation Army's Josiah Van Niekerk says its about finding volunteers across all walks of live for all different sorts of organisations. ================================================================The Federal and State governments are delivering an extra thirty-seven million dollars to assist communities such as the Otways recovering from the January bushfires.The funding package includes nearly thirty-three million dollars to construct over one hundred temporary modular homes for uninsured residents.Minister for Natural Disaster Recovery Vicki Ward says Four million dollars will also be injected into local legal services to support families and primary producers.================================================================Two men have been heavily fined in the Geelong Magistrates’ Court following a major investigation into the illegal harvesting of native tea tree from the Otways.A seventy-four-year-old Colac man and his forty-four-year-old son were found guilty of taking protected native vegetation to sell as fencing stakes.The court heard the pair made approximately thirty thousand dollars from the illegal venture. ================================================================This week Volunteers from all across the region with Australia's National Volunteer Week kicking off today.Colac Volunteers Leaders Network's Liz Bishop says events will be on such as the Volunteer Expo at COPACC tomorrow to celebrate those who are the backbone of the community.================================================================AND IN SPORTIn the weekends Colac and District Football and Netball action,Birregurra proved too strong in the football winning by 25 againts Otway Districts, and South Colac beat the Western Eagles by 32 points.In the netball Otway Districts caused an upset to topple ladder-leaders Birregurra to notch the Demons third straight win.AND South Colac beat Western Eagles by 7.================================================================In the Hampden League's netball results Cobden had a thrilling win against Warrnambool while Camperdown suffered a heavy defeat against South Warrnambool.In the football Cobden went down by 15, and Camperdown lost by 24 points.================================================================The Colac Golf Club has advanced to the South West Golf Association’s Division One Pennant Grand Final.Playing on their home greens, Colac defeated Curlewis five matches to two in a dominant semi-final performance.The historic win cements their place in the flag decider next Sunday against Barwon Heads at Lonsdale Links.================================================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for May 15, 2026.==============================The 2026 Apollo Bay Ladies Lunch has delivered a major win for local emergency services, with a six-thousand-dollar donation officially handed over to the Apollo Bay C-F-A.The committee says the total was raised through a combination of raffle ticket sales, waivered event fees, and generous community donations. ============================================================Details of a cold-blooded ambush have emerged in court as two regional residents were jailed for their roles in a 2025 Beeac shooting.============================================================South West police are warning motorists that a third of all cars stolen in the region this year have been taken using high-tech key-mimicking devices.The technology allows thieves to override security systems without needing physical keys, a trend that is mirroring statewide figures. ============================================================A 69-year-old Port Campbell man is facing multiple charges after being caught drink driving just weeks after losing his license for the same offense. ============================================================There’s significant progress behind the fences at Point Grey this week as the redevelopment gathers pace.The slab has now been poured for the new Lorne Aquatic and Angling Club, providing the first real look at the building’s footprint. ============================================================The Elliminyt Wetlands project is nearing the finish line, with civil construction now complete and final landscaping underway.============================================================AND IN SPORTThe Colac Golf Club hosts Barwon Heads Golf Club this weekend in the first round of South West Golf Association's Division 1 Pennant finals.In Colac's first year since its leap from Division 2, Colac finished on top of the ladder and looks to cement a spot in the Division 1 Pennant Grand Final.============================================================In this weekends CDFNL matches Otway Districts hope to celebrate club president Dean Mahoney's 350th senior match in style against Birregurra.While South Colac look to continue their winning momentum against the Western Eagles.============================================================In this weekends Hampden League actions the Cobden Bomber will travel to Reid Oval to take on the Warrnambool Blues.Camperdown hosts South Warrnambool at Leura Oval.============================================================See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.