Knit, Knatter and That Teesdale
Photo: Declan Davidson
Mayor’s message
In this edition, we’re pleased to share key updates on important initiatives shaping our Shire, alongside an important change in how you’ll receive the Gazette in the future.
We continue to make significant strides in strengthening our community connections and enhancing our local landscape. Thank you for working with us in the development of our Draft Council Plan 2025-2029. The Plan is the foundation for everything we do, providing a roadmap that will guide how we serve our community over the next four years. Council will consider the Plan for adoption at its June 2025 meeting.
This edition details an overview of our growing partnership with the Geelong Regional Library Corporation (GLRC), a collaboration that is generating exciting new opportunities for our community. Furthermore, we’ll highlight the wonderful success of the Golden Spaces 2025 Winter Exhibition celebrating how the creativity and talent within our community has truly shone through, transforming our public spaces into a dynamic and inspiring gallery.
We’re pleased to announce that our Budget 2025/26 has been formally adopted. This budget reflects our ongoing commitment to providing essential services, all while carefully considering the community’s priorities and navigating the current fiscal environment. You can find more detailed information on page 4.
Yours in community,
Cr Owen Sharkey Mayor
Embracing Digital Only Delivery
We’re excited to announce that starting with our next edition, the September Gazette newsletter will be moving to digital only delivery.
This means you will no longer receive hard copies in your letterbox or at local pick-up points. Hard copies will be available on request. While we previously offered both print and digital versions, we believe this digital-only delivery will not only improve your access to important updates, but also align with our broader sustainability goals.
We understand this change may take a little getting used to, and we are committed to making the transition as smooth as possible. For more information about this change, email CommunityEngagement@gplains.vic.gov.au.
Haddon School Road and Racecourse Road Intersection
Major upgrade works at the Haddon School Road and Racecourse Road intersection reached practical completion in April.
The scope of works included: intersection widening, realignment and relocation of existing concrete traffic islands, installation of new kerb and channel, drainage infrastructure upgrades, and pavement reconstruction with increased thickness for enhanced load capacity.
Federation Bridge Riverbank Restoration Updates
The riverbank at the base of Federation Bridge in Inverleigh was heavily scoured from the October 2022 floods. Repairing the riverbank is the first step to ensure the bridge is not damaged from further riverbank erosion.
Works have included:
• Temporary river crossing for construction equipment and the placement of rock from the south side.
• The removal of a fallen river redgum – the fallen tree was altering the river flow, so much so, it was causing erosion to the southern bank that would affect a very large river redgum on the southern bank.
These upgrades are designed to improve the intersection, enhancing ingress and egress movements and overall road user safety. Originally scheduled for completion by the end of May, the works were delivered two weeks ahead of program due to favourable weather conditions.
Previous maintenance works at this intersection were a temporary treatment to make the road safe until such time that these major improvement works were able to be completed.
• Placing geofabric and rocks to protect the existing northern riverbank, the rock armouring better protects the riverbank and the bridge towers on the northern side.
• Removal of temporary river crossing and placing rock for newly scoured section on the southern bank.
Repairs to the Federation Bridge structure (including the bridge) commenced in May and will continue through June 2025.
COUNCIL NEWS
Golden Plains Shire Council Budget 2025/26
Golden Plains Shire Council’s Budget 2025/26 was adopted by Council at its 27 May meeting.
The $52 million Budget focuses on balancing financial sustainability with maintaining services and continued investment in projects that are valued by our community.
The 2025/26 Budget has been prepared based on the adopted principles within the 2021-2025 Council Plan and Financial Plan with rate revenue modelled at a 3.00% average rate cap increase in accordance with the Minister for Local Government’s announcement in December 2024.
Council held public consultation sessions in November 2024 as part of the Financial Plan deliberative engagement and in February 2025 seeking feedback to inform the budget development and promoting the budget submission process. Council held a meeting at the Golden Plains Civic Centre on Tuesday 1 April 2025 where anyone who lodged a written submission had an opportunity to present it to Councillors.
The local government sector is experiencing significant financial pressure over recent years as a result of the cumulative impacts from the increasing costs for the delivery of capital projects and operating services, rate capping below the Consumer Price Index, and unprecedented natural disasters.
Golden Plains Shire Mayor Cr Owen Sharkey acknowledged the current economic challenges and focus on financial sustainability, stating that the Budget reflects notable reduction in overall expenditure, while concentrating on the completion of current works, projects, services and programs with little room for any new projects.
“In light of the current climate, the Budget aims to balance financial sustainability with continued investment in infrastructure and community services. Whilst there are no new initiatives or additional staff included, ongoing capital works program and upcoming projects such as the Bannockburn Bike Park, Pollocksford Bridge renewal, and the VicRoads road improvement project have been included,” Cr Sharkey said.
“Whilst there is little room for new projects, we assure our residents that every effort has been made to achieve a balance between managing rising costs and maintaining service levels. However, it is imperative that we deliver a financially responsible budget.”
Key Features of Budget 2025/26
• This budget seeks to continue to provide services and improve and maintain infrastructure as well as deliver projects and services that are valued by our community, within the maximum rate cap of 3.00%. The continued trend of increasing costs well above rate cap increases has placed significant pressure on the financial management of Councils across Victoria, who will likely have to reduce the level of service provided to their community or operate at a loss, which is not sustainable over the long-term.
• $52m to continue to deliver more than 70 services to the Golden Plains community.
• 3.00% rate cap
• Waste Management Fee set at $447 per household.
• Operating surplus of $7.5m, with an overall Underlying surplus of $77k.
Community Infrastructure Projects in Budget 2025/26
• $1.205m Bannockburn Bike Park (subject to external funding).
• $250k Council co-contribution for funding opportunities.
• $650k Northern Streetscape Implementation.
• $2.1m Roads to Recovery program (Mt MercerDereel Road widening, Wingeel Road upgrade).
• $600k Local Roads Improvement Program (Haddon-Windermere Road rehabilitation and Lacys Road/Colac-Ballarat Road rehabilitation at intersection).
• $1.7m TAC Road Improvements program.
• $1.2m Wilgul-Werneth Road/Wurook Road bridge replacement.
• $800k Pollocksford Road bridge repairs contribution.
Key Operational Programs included in Budget 2025/26
• Continued implementation of Climate Emergency Plan actions.
• Funding for various programs to support active ageing, youth development, and the general health, wellbeing and inclusion of all cohorts across the community.
Draft Council Plan 2025-2029
Thank you to all residents and community members who have contributed to the development of the Draft Council Plan 2025-2029 (the Draft Plan).
Throughout May, the Draft Plan was on public exhibition following an extensive community engagement process which included: surveys, Community Thinktank Sessions and community engagement activities at locations across the Shire.
The Draft Plan details the vision, goals and strategies to guide Council’s priority activities, decision making and service delivery over the next four-year period.
Council will review all written submissions and feedback on the Draft Council Plan 2025-2029 and where appropriate incorporate changes to finalise the plan. Council will then consider the final Council Plan 20252029 for adoption at its June 2025 Council Meeting. Learn more at goldenplains.vic.gov.au/consultations.
Community Planning
Expressions of Interest
Council has announced the next round of towns which will participate in the Community Planning Program.
Council is currently seeking Expressions of Interest (EOI) from Enfield, Smythesdale, Barunah Park, Ross Creek/ Smythes Creek and Napoleons residents and community
Maternal and Child Health Services Return to Haddon
Council has recommenced Maternal and Child Health Services in Haddon. Located within the Haddon kindergarten, 28 Haddon-Windermere Rd, Haddon the service will be co-located with the kindergarten service. We are now taking bookings for appointments for Mondays. For all Maternal and Child Health appointments contact 03 5220 7230.
Key Ages and Stages Appointments
Are your child’s Key Ages and Stages appointments up to date? Has your 3.5yo to 4yo had their pre-kinder check? Book Maternal and Child Health (MCH) now!
Are you aware that our MCH team has many other FREE services? These include Sleep and Settling Support for Babies, Infants and Toddlers, Supported Playgroup, Enhanced Home Support, Lactation Support and we are a conduit for many referrals not limited to mental health, development concerns and Family Violence Support.
Please book an appointment today on 03 5220 7230.
groups to participate in the Community Planning Program. The Community Planning Program provides towns in Golden Plains Shire a framework to identify and prioritise projects for their local community and include these projects in a four-year plan.
If you are interested in joining your local Community Planning Program, contact Council’s Community Partnership Officer via email at community.planning@gplains.vic.gov.au or call 5220 7111.
Volunteers in Action Exhibition
The 2025 Volunteers in Action Exhibition showcases Golden Plains Shire volunteers contributing to their local communities and were captured by Golden Plains Youth volunteers Kenzie Dawber and Declan Davidson.
The photographs in the Exhibition were taken by youth volunteers who went out and visited volunteers in their communities, doing what they love. This intergenerational project has provided wonderful opportunities for all, and the young volunteers enjoyed meeting other volunteers and seeing them in action.
The Volunteers in Action Exhibition is currently on display at the Golden Plains Civic Centre until Monday 1 September before moving up to The Well in Smythesdale.
National Volunteer Week 2025 celebrated the power of volunteering to bring people together with the theme ‘Connecting Communities’. Let’s acknowledge the spirit of connection and the incredible impact volunteers have in building inclusive and thriving communities.
Golden Spaces 2025 Winter Exhibition on display now!
Golden Spaces has officially entered its second year with the Golden Spaces 2025 Winter Exhibition launching at the Bannockburn Cultural Centre on Saturday 7 June 2025.
The 2025 Winter Exhibition, which features artworks from more than 20 artists across the Shire, is a testament to the remarkable talent of our local artists. Visitors can expect to see over 30 pieces of artwork on display at the Exhibition which is on display at the Bannockburn Cultural Centre for the next 4 months before travelling up to The Well in Smythesdale.
The 2024 Summer Exhibition, which launched last December, is also currently on display at The Well in Smythesdale and will travel to the Golden Plains Civic Centre in August.
Expressions of Interest to exhibit at the 2025 Golden Spaces Summer Exhibition are open now!
To find out more and express your interest, visit goldenplains.vic.gov.au/golden-spaces
Golden Spaces is a free community-based program for group art exhibitions and is designed to promote the art of local creatives and provide them with the experience of exhibiting and selling their work.
Join the Community Engagement Register to receive Engage, Council’s monthly engagement e-newsletter.
Complete the simple web form at goldenplains.vic.gov.au/ community-engagement-register Email communityengagement@gplains.vic.gov.au
Photo: Kenzie Dawber
Active Golden Plains –Thrive in 2025
Golden Plains Shire Council has collaborated with community groups, sporting clubs, fitness instructors and residents across the Shire to create Active Golden Plains – Thrive in 2025.
Active Golden Plains – Thrive in 2025 is designed to empower our community to explore diverse ways to stay active and foster social connections. This initiative offers a range of physical activities suitable for all ages and abilities, encouraging residents to try new activities and embrace a more active lifestyle.
As part of the program, Council has created a dedicated website page which features updates on new initiatives and programs as they become available. To find out what’s on, visit goldenplains.vic.gov.au/active-golden-plainsthrive-2025.
If you have a once off physical activity/sporting opportunity, contact Council’s Recreation Team on 5220 7111 or email recreation@gplains.vic.gov.au to let us help you advertise it.
Club and Community Volunteer Training
There are a range of club and community volunteer training opportunities available in Golden Plains Shire.
Council has developed a calendar of available training sessions, which cater to the needs of local clubs and community groups with topics like strategic planning, alcohol management and liquor licensing, Fair Access Action Plans and volunteer management.
Scan the QR Code to see what’s available and register for a session.
Community Strengthening Grants Program 2025
Council’s Community Strengthening Grants Program has been a valuable source of financial support for local events, projects, and programs in Golden Plains Shire communities for over 25 years. Council offers one round of the Community Strengthening Grants Program this year, which opens on 1 August 2025.
The aim of the Community Strengthening Grants Program is to assist community organisations and groups to undertake activities which deliver on the Community Vision 2040 and Council’s priority actions.
Golden Plains Shire Council’s Community Strengthening Grants Program is beginning soon, with applications opening on Thursday 1 August and closing at 2pm, Monday 1 September 2025.
Grants can provide funding for up to $10,000 and will be available in line with objectives set out in the Council Plan 2025-2029.
For more information, visit goldenplains.vic.gov.au/grants.
Take Part in Local Art!
The 2025 Take Part Local Art Program is in full swing with a series of engaging workshops taking place at the Bannockburn Library throughout the year.
Delivered in partnership with Geelong Regional Libraries, Take Part Local Art features engaging workshops led by talented artists from across the Shire.
Community members are encouraged to attend remaining workshops which will be held on:
• Saturday 2 August from 9am to 12pm – Silk scarf design development with Ros Bosnar.
• Saturday 9 August from 9am to 12pm – Silk scarf dyeing and completion with Ros Bosnar.
• Tuesday 7 October from 5 to 7pm – Timber round painting with Bec Wilson.
Take Part Local Art is a fantastic opportunity to participate in innovative workshops, providing hands-on learning for creatives across the Shire.
Registrations for remaining workshops will be available closer to the dates.
To register, visit goldenplains.vic.gov.au/events.
Winter and Dog Attacks
Throughout the colder months, Council Officers see an increase in wandering dogs and dog attacks, which is often the result of insufficient fencing. Under the Domestic Animals Act 1994, dog attacks are considered an offence and dog owners can be held responsible for their dogs’ actions.
Taking steps to ensure dogs are safely within property boundaries is an important part of responsible pet ownership. Appropriate fences are crucial.
Pet Registration – did you know?
Pet registration fees allow Council’s Community Safety Officers to provide a wide range of services, such as:
• Investigating nuisance complaints
• Dog attacks
• Audit boarding kennels and breeders
• Attend to welfare reports
• Reuniting escaped pets with their owners
Council has a first free ride home policy for registered dogs and cats found at large.
If your cat is desexed and you have an outdoor cat enclosure, you may be eligible for a reduced fee registration.
Council assists with reduced free cat desexing through the National Desexing Network for eligible concession card holders.
For more information, contact Council’s Community Safety Officers by calling 5220 7111.
Pet registration fees were due on 10 April, if you have not yet renewed, please make sure to do so. Officers will start following up on registrations that have not been renewed from 1 July.
Residents are encouraged to keep the following in mind:
• Is your fence high enough for your dog?
• Are there any gaps the dog can push under? Dogs will frequently push up mesh-type fences until it’s loose enough to push in under.
• How big is the gap between the top of your mesh fence and the top-wire or top fencing panel? While it may not seem there is enough room for a large dog to get through, dogs can often get through these gaps. An additional wire can help.
• Are the latches on the gate secure? Ensure you check gate latches as dogs can learn to open various types of latches.
Thank You for Supporting Glass Recycling
We are a few months into glass bin collections across Golden Plains Shire, and the results are really encouraging! Our contractor has reported positive feedback with low levels of contamination in most areas.
Thanks for your ongoing efforts to improve recycling and reduce landfill waste. There are just a couple of small things we can improve to make the system even better.
Let’s Keep Glass Out of the Mixed Recycling Bin (Yellow Lid)
While most people are doing the right thing, we are still seeing some glass bottles and jars ending up in the mixed recycling bin where they do not belong.
Why does this matter?
Placing glass in the mixed recycling bin can:
• Contaminate other recyclables like paper and cardboard.
• Increase sorting and processing costs for the entire recycling stream.
Please place all glass jars and bottles in the glass bin (purple lid) only.
Remember to Remove Lids from Glass Bottles and Jars
It’s great to see glass going into the correct bin – thank you! But we have noticed that some glass items still have their lids attached, and that causes contamination.
Glass and lids need to be processed separately, so it is important to remove lids before recycling.
Here’s what to do:
1. Remove all lids from glass jars and bottles.
2. Place the glass in the glass bin (purple lid).
3. Sort the lids as follow:
• Metal lids: Place them into your mixed recycling bin (yellow lid).
• Plastic lids (bigger than a credit card): These can also go in your mixed recycling bin (yellow lid).
• Small plastic lids: These should go in your general waste bin (green, red or maroon lid).
By following these simple steps, you are making the recycling process more effective and helping create a sustainable future for Golden Plains Shire and Victoria.
Scan the QR code to learn more about glass recycling in Golden Plains Shire.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
See you at the Golden Plains Farmers’ Market!
Each month, the Golden Plains Farmers’ Market offers the very best in artisan food and handcrafted goods with a fantastic range of farm-fresh and homemade foods as well as unique art, handmade homewares and much more.
Winter
Winter Holiday Program 2025
Council is hosting a series of free activities for young people aged 12 to 25 years throughout the upcoming Winter School Holidays, with exciting activities running from Monday 7 July to Friday 18 July.
Activities may include; skate sessions, art and craft projects, music or technology programs and trips to Melbourne.
The free holiday activities held across the Shire have been designed to support the needs and interests of young people, while also providing opportunities to learn new skills and connect with other young people.
To see a full schedule of available activities and to register, visit goldenplains.vic.gov.au/holiday-activity-program.
Community members and visitors can shop from 8.30am to 12.30pm on the first Saturday of each month (except January) at the Bannockburn Heart, corner of Milton and High Streets, Bannockburn.
With live music, family entertainment, espresso coffee and the aroma of fresh baking pastries adrift, the market offers a lively atmosphere for visitors of all ages.
Mark the calendar with the remaining 2025 market dates: 5 July, 2 August, 6 September, 4 October, 1 November and 6 December.
Edible Gardens – Sustainability & Self-Sufficiency Workshops
Calling all Edible Gardens lovers! The brand new 2025 program is in full swing, featuring a series of sustainability & self-sufficiency workshops for local gardeners.
Facilitated by Horticulturist Craig Castree, the workshops have provided participants with skills in sustainable practices to nurture gardens and promote self-sufficiency.
Mark your calendar with the remaining dates:
• Saturday 28 June from 7 to 8.30pm at the Bannockburn Cultural Centre – Edible Gardens for Beginners.
• Monday 30 June from 7 to 8.30pm, online via Zoom – Edible Gardens for Beginners.
• Wednesday 2 July from 6 to 8pm, online via Zoom – Edible Gardens Advanced Masterclass.
To register for the remaining workshops, visit goldenplains.vic.gov.au/edible-gardens.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
Adult Ballet Classes
In the month of April, participants enjoyed Adult Ballet classes held around the Golden Plains Shire as a part of Active Golden Plains - Thrive in 2025, to stay active and foster social connections.
At the end of the class everyone enjoyed some lunch while listening to the very talented Kassidy Jewell, a 17-year-old country music singer and songwriter from Ross Creek.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Escape the Cold with us
Come along and escape the cold with a ‘move, create and share’ session to keep warm this winter.
• Move your body with a gentle movement class to keep warm (suitable for all abilities).
• Explore the ways to keep warm in a creative project together.
• Share the warmth and comfort of hot soup and bread rolls.
Complimentary gift bag for all participants.
Bannockburn Cultural Centre
When: Monday 30 June 2025
Time: 11am – 1pm
The Well, Smythesdale
When: Tuesday 1 July 2025
Time: 11am – 1pm
Limited transport available and bookings are essential.
Email: customerhub@gplains.vic.gov.au Phone: 5220 7111
Seniors Festival
Expression of Interest
Golden Plains Shire Council is inviting community groups, businesses, and organisations to express their interest in hosting an event for the 2025 Victorian Seniors Festival.
The Victorian Seniors Festival will take place from 1 to 31 October, celebrating ageing and providing opportunities for older adults to connect and engage with others.
Each year, Council coordinates a program of events aimed at promoting an active, healthy, and connected lifestyle. This program includes a variety of community and Council-led activities.
Ways to get involved:
• Host an open day.
• Host a “come and try” session for an existing activity offered by your business or community group.
• Provide a discounted or free activity.
If you plan to participate, please inform us so we can include your event in our promotional materials.
The Seniors Festival will be advertised through a printed program of events, social media, Council’s website, email marketing and other channels.
Expressions of interest must be submitted by close of business on 31 July 2025. Contact Council’s Community Inclusion Team on 5220 7111 or email enquiries@gplains.vic.gov.au
GET IN TOUCH
If you have any suggestions for future editions or comments you would like to discuss, please do not hesitate to contact us on the following details: Golden Plains Shire Council’s Community and Inclusion Team: Phone: 5220 7111
Email: enquiries@gplains.vic.gov.au
Customer Hubs
BANNOCKBURN
8.30am to 5pm, Monday to Friday 2 Pope Street, Bannockburn Victoria, 3331.
SMYTHESDALE
8.30am to 5pm, Monday to Friday 19 Heales Street, Smythesdale Victoria, 3351.
PHONE
P: 5220 7111
POSTAL ADDRESS
Golden Plains Shire Council PO Box 111, Bannockburn, Victoria 3331.
EMERGENCY CONTACTS
P: 1300 363 036
P: 5220 7111 (24 Hours)
COVER: Knit, Knatter and That Teesdale, Social Craft Group.
PHOTO: Declan Davidson
Rates Payment
All Golden Plains Shire ratepayers will receive their 2025/26 Rates Notice in August.
There are three options for paying your Rates and Charges in 2025/26:
1. One full payment – due by 15 February 2026.
2. Four instalments
Due: 30 September, 30 November, 28 February, and 31 May. Direct debit is available, and notices are mailed out for each instalment with a range of payment options.
3. 10 monthly direct debit payments
Due: 15th of the month from September 2025 to June 2026. You must register for direct debit by contacting Council.
Residents who sign up to pay their rates by instalments, please note that your first instalment payment will be due on 30 September 2025.
Should you have any questions or require further information about rates, please contact Council’s Rates Team on 5220 7111.
Container Deposit Scheme in Golden Plains Shire
The Victorian Government’s Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) is now available in three locations in Golden Plains Shire.
CDS Collection Point in Golden Plains:
• Inverleigh Bowser Bean – 19 High Street, Inverleigh.
• Teesdale General Store & Post Office – 1071 Bannockburn-Shelford Road, Teesdale.
• Octane Fuels – 1859 Midland Highway, Bannockburn.
This new recycling program will increase the recycling of drink cans, bottles and cartons and reduce Victoria’s litter by up to half. Learn more at cdsvic.org.au.
Scan to sign up now! Keep up to date with the
Check out the Online Community Directory
Council’s Online Community Directory is a great way to connect with local community groups, clubs, services, associations and facilities.
The Online Community Directory provides easy-to-find information and features a range of categories and listings for people to search. Eligible groups can also add their own free listing by creating an account at Golden Plains Shire Council’s website. Once approved, groups can independently manage their own listings and update them as needed.
A user guide with instructions on how to create a community listing are available at goldenplains.vic.gov.au/community-directory.