Gearing up for the 2026 State Election Golden Plains Shire Council has been actively advocating for key community priorities ahead of the Victorian State Election, calling for investment in public transport, road safety and emergency services across the municipality.
Come Along to a Spooky Night of Music and Fun Golden Plains Shire residents are invited to grab their best Halloween costume and enjoy an evening of live music, local talent and community connection at the inaugural Fright Night Open Mic this October. Hosted by the FUSE Amplify Committee, the free community event will take place on Saturday 31 October 2026 from 4.30 to 7pm at the Bannockburn Library outdoor amphitheatre, bringing together young performers, families and community members for a fun-filled Halloween celebration.
Fright Night Open Mic will showcase emerging young musicians aged 12 to 25 years from across Golden Plains Shire. Attendees are encouraged to dress up in their favourite Halloween costumes and enjoy an evening of live performances, music and festivities. Food options will be available throughout the event, creating plenty of opportunities for visitors to relax, mingle and enjoy the Halloween atmosphere. For further information, and to register, visit goldenplains.vic.gov.au/events.
Recent advocacy efforts have included supporting the Golden Plains Youth Council's call for improved public transport connections between local communities and regional centres, as well as advocating for improved road safety outcomes in Teesdale. These initiatives aim to improve accessibility, safety and opportunities for residents across the Shire. Council also recently welcomed a commitment for a new Ambulance Victoria station in Smythesdale, a key priority in its State Election advocacy campaign. Council will continue working with candidates and political parties to secure investment that supports the future growth and wellbeing of Golden Plains communities. To view the list of State Election priorities, visit goldenplains.vic.gov.au/ election.
Nominate your local heros Now for the Golden Plains Shire Community Awards 2027 Nominations remain open for the 2027 Golden Plains Shire Community Awards, an annual celebration of the outstanding individuals and groups who help make our communities stronger, more connected and a great place to live.
Every day, local volunteers, sporting champions, community leaders and dedicated groups go above and beyond to support others, lead initiatives and create positive change across Golden Plains Shire. The Community Awards provide an opportunity to recognise and celebrate these remarkable contributions.
Nominations can be submitted for Community Hero of the Year, Senior Community Hero of the Year, Young Community Hero of the Year and the Community Group Award. Do you know someone making a difference in your community? Whether they volunteer their time, support local causes, mentor others or inspire positive change, there's still time to recognise their efforts. Nominations close at 5pm on Friday 27 November 2026. Submit a nomination today and help celebrate our local heroes. Visit goldenplains.vic.gov.au/consultations.
2 Pope Street, Bannockburn, VIC 3331 19 Heales Street, Smythesdale, VIC 3351
Hosting a Community Event in Golden Plains? With the festive season fast approaching, now is the perfect time to let the community know about it! Listing your event on the Golden Plains Shire events calendar is free and is a great way to reach local residents and visitors looking for things to do. List your event at our website: goldenplains.vic.gov.au/form/eventregistration.
5220 7111 enquiries@gplains.vic.gov.au
GoldenPlainsShire
goldenplains.vic.gov.au
lovegoldenplains