Nominate Now for the Golden Plains Shire Council Community Awards 2026
Golden Plains Shire Council is thrilled to announce that nominations are now open for the Community Awards 2026.
The Community Awards are an opportunity to formally acknowledge incredible people and community groups who have made noteworthy contributions to Golden Plains Shire – from organising local events and cleaning up local recreation parks to supporting neighbours in need.
Nominations are invited in the following categories:
• Community Hero of the Year (all age categories considered for this Award)
• Senior Community Hero of the Year (65 years of age and over)
• Young Community Hero of the Year (25 years of age and under)
• Community Group Award (recognising a community group or team)
Nominations are open from Wednesday 1 October until 5pm, Friday 28 November 2025, and can be completed online at goldenplains.vic.gov.au/consultations. Hard copy nomination forms are also available at Council’s Customer Hubs in Bannockburn and Smythesdale.
Be part of the Active Golden Plains Sport & Rec Fest
Golden Plains Shire Council is seeking Expressions of Interest (EOI) from local sporting clubs, recreation organisations and community groups to take part in the Active Golden Plains Sport & Rec Fest (the Rec Fest).
The Rec Fest is an opportunity for local clubs and groups to host a demonstration, interactive activity, ‘come and try’ session, display or other activity for residents of all ages, genders and abilities across the Shire.
The Rec Fest will be held across two different locations on:
• Saturday 21 February 2026 from 10am to 1pm at the Woady Yaloak Recreation Reserve, Smythesdale.
• Saturday 14 March 2026 from 10am to 1pm at the Recreation Precinct Soccer Pavilion, Bannockburn.
Sporting clubs and groups can participate in one or both days.
EOIs are invited from Wednesday 17 September until 5pm, Friday 31 October 2025, and can be submitted at goldenplains.vic.gov.au/consultations Hard copies are also be available at Council’s Customer Hubs in Bannockburn and Smythesdale.
Celebrate
Children’s Week in Golden Plains Shire
Golden Plains Shire Council will host a range of free activities for families, carers and children in celebration of Children’s Week from Monday 20 October to Friday 24 October 2025. Children’s Week is a national celebration that recognises the talents, skills, achievements and rights of children.
To celebrate Children’s Week, Council will be hosting Intergenerational Recycled Art and Craft sessions and Council’s Children’s Services team will be running activities at the Golden Plains Mobile Library.
Registrations for the Intergenerational Art workshops are available at goldenplains.vic.gov.au/events or by contacting 5220 7230. Registrations are not required for the Mobile Library activities. For further information, contact Council’s Children’s Services team at enquiries@gplains.vic.gov.au or call 5220 7230.
Gazette OUT Now!
The latest issue of the Golden Plains Shire Council Gazette is now available at goldenplains.vic.gov.au
This issue is full of important news and stories from all corners of the Shire, including the revised Budget 2025/26, the Community Awards 2026, the latest road works, Active Golden Plains Sport and Rec Fest, the Seniors Festival and much more! To sign up for the Gazette, scan the QR Code or email enquiries@gplains.vic.gov.au