Over the coming weeks, I’ll be out across East Gippsland – meeting with locals, visiting works in progress, and spending time with the council teams and community members bringing these projects to life.
There’s a strong pipeline of work underway across our shire – from practical upgrades through to long-term investments in our towns. Together, these projects strengthen our communities and support the way we live, work and connect.
In Omeo, works are about to begin on a new spillway and bridge at Livingstone Park – improving flood resilience, protecting the environment, and making the area safer and more accessible for everyone to enjoy.
In Paynesville, we’re seeing strong interest in the new marina at the Slip Road Maritime Precinct, with expressions of interest for berths opening soon. This is an important investment in our marine infrastructure – supporting local businesses, boating activity and growing demand on the Gippsland Lakes.
We’re also focused on practical changes that make a real difference day to day. As part of Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme, we’ll soon trial baskets on selected public litter bins to collect eligible drink containers, making them easy for people to take and return for a refund – reducing waste while supporting those who rely on the scheme for extra income.
We’ve also launched myLot, a new online planning enquiry tool available through our website, providing clear, early guidance for people looking to build, renovate or extend.
I recently attended the East Gippsland Field Days and appreciated the chance to speak with people from across the shire. A consistent issue raised was the growing impact of pest animals on farming. I’ve since joined with our Agricultural Sector Advisory Committee to call on state and federal governments to strengthen their response to deer, feral pigs, wild dogs and dingoes.
I’ll be attending ANZAC Day commemorative services on the day. These are important moments for our community – bringing people together, honouring service, and ensuring these stories are shared with the next generation.
I’ll also attend events including the official opening of the Sarsfield Recreation Reserve and Community Hall upgrades and Australia’s Largest Community Lunch – recognising the people who contribute so much to our region and help make East Gippsland the strong, connected community it is.
In May, our shire will host the National Indigenous Disaster Resilience Forum in Lakes Entrance – an opportunity to share knowledge that strengthens communities across the country.
A Municipal Association of Victoria State Council meeting in Melbourne will prevent me from attending the Victoria Police Neighbourhood Policing Forum in Bairnsdale. While I’m disappointed to miss it, I’m pleased this important conversation is taking place locally, with council represented where discussions will focus on road safety, youth issues, and the role school crossing supervisors play alongside police in keeping our communities safe.
One of the most rewarding parts of my role is working alongside our Youth Ambassadors. I recently met with the new team and was impressed by their insight and willingness to contribute. They are already working on the 2026 Youth Art Prize, with entries now open.
I was also proud to open the Creative Summit at Forge Theatre and attend Summit on Tour workshops across the region – listening to our creative community and exploring how we can continue to support and grow arts and culture.
Finally, with National Volunteer Week coming up in early May, I encourage you to recognise those who make a difference in your community by submitting a nomination at eastgippsland.vic.gov.au.
– Mayor Cr Jodie Ashworth
