The South West Daily

Here is what is making news for May 14, 2026.================================A motion was carried 6-to-0 at the Colac Otway Shire Councils Submissions meeting to progress talk on the future of a soccer hub for the Colac Otway Rovers. Colac Otway Shire CEO Andrew Tenni says there is still heaps of work needed, but the topic will be put forward at the next council meeting. ================================================================Work is finally beginning on the one-point-three million dollar upgrade of the Simpson Recreation Reserve changerooms. The project will replace dilapidated fifty-year-old facilities with a modern hub featuring home-and-away rooms, umpires' quarters, and a dedicated first-aid station. ================================================================A prolific burglar responsible for a string of high-value break-ins across Colac has been sentenced to nineteen months behind bars. The court heard the offender targeted several local businesses, including a jewelry store and a technology shop, stealing tens of thousands of dollars worth of goods. ================================================================With fog setting in as the region approaches winter, road users have been urged to make sure they make themselves as visible as possible to other road users. Roadsafe Otways Matt Daniels says something as simple as turning lights on or monitoring distance can reduce the rate of incidents. ================================================================There were both positives and negatives from the the federal budget for the regions farmers. EQ Economics Managing Director, Warren Hogan said on Ace Radio's Country Today Program that while farmers where low on the Governments priority list changes to the capital gains trust tax were positive. ================================================================New location signs will soon be welcoming visitors to the Corangamite Shire as part of a major modern upgrade. Mayor Kate Makin says the project will replace blue signs that are nearly twenty years old and, in some cases, no longer legible. ================================================================AND IN SPORTThis weekend the Colac Otway Rovers women will travel to Grovedale to take on Barwon SC on Saturday. The Men's Sunday matches include a Beeac double header with the Division 2 side playing Ocean Grove, and Division 3 facing Barwon Heads. ================================================================This Sunday the Corangamite Lions travel to Ballarat for a much anticipated weekend. The Division 1 match is an early season top of the table clash, while the women's match is second verse third. ================================================================The Colac Braves baseballers are on the road this weekend with the Division 1 side playing against East Belmont. Fresh off there second win of the season, the Division 3 side also takes on East Belmont. ================================================================ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for May 13, 2026.===================================As cost-of-living pressures continue to impact households, Barwon Water is beginning a major consultation process regarding future water prices and service standards. ======================================================================With the fire season now behind us, emergency services are urging Colac Otway and Corangamite residents to register their burn-offs to prevent unnecessary callouts. CFA Acting Chief Officer Garry Cook warns that despite recent rain, unusually warm autumn weather makes care essential. The quickest way to notify authorities is through the Fire Permits Victoria website. ======================================================================A million-dollar support package is being rolled out across eleven local government areas, including Colac Otway, to combat the effects of the South West drought. ======================================================================Lorne is celebrating a top spot in Australian Traveller’s annual rankings, coming in at eleventh in the country. The coastal favorite led a strong showing for the Surf Coast, with Torquay and Geelong also making the top one hundred list. Port Fairy was the highest-ranking town in along the Great Ocean, narrowly missing a podium finish in fourth place. ======================================================================Sewell's Lawyers Biggest Morning Tea is back for 2026 to raise funds and foster community connection for locals impacted by cancer. Sewell's Layer Nick Lenehan-Anderson says everyone is encouraged to donate or attend in helping raise funds for the Cancer Council. ======================================================================A thirty-two-year-old father from Skipton has admitted to more than thirty charges in the Ballarat Magistrates’ Court following a series of dangerous driving incidents. The court heard the man was repeatedly caught driving unlicensed and with drugs in his system throughout last year.======================================================================AND IN SPORTColac Gun Club shooter Penny Smith has reached a new career high, claiming World Cup Gold in Kazakhstan while shattering a world record. The twenty-twenty-four Olympic Bronze Medalist delivered a flawless performance in the Women’s Trap Final, shooting a perfect thirty out of thirty. Smith’s clinical display obliterated the previous world record of twenty-four, further cementing her status as one of the world’s elite competitors. ======================================================================The Great Ocean Road Running Festival returns this weekend, with more than ten thousand participants and visitors expected in South West Victoria. Stretching from Lorne to Apollo Bay, the event provides a rare chance to experience the iconic road completely free of traffic. ======================================================================Two high-profile reports have emerged from the weekend’s regional football action. In the C-D-F-N-L, Alvie’s Dominic Dare faces a three-match ban for striking Simpson’s Sam Rial. Meanwhile, in the G-F-N-L, Colac’s Jack Slater is facing two weeks for rough conduct against St Albans. Both players can reduce their suspensions by one week if they elect to enter an early guilty plea. ====================================================================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for May 12, 2026.=================================A sixty-year-old Camperdown man has been refused bail after allegedly holding a woman captive at gunpoint for several days. The court heard the New South Wales woman managed to escape on May seventh by convincing her captor she needed to take her pet bird to a vet. She was later found in the central business district by a member of the public who alerted police. ==================================================================Agriculture Victoria is offering a series of workshops this week to help regional farmers navigate complex financial decisions during the current drought. Agriculture Victoria program manager Aimee McCutcheon says these events provide technical advice and allow farmers to share challenges with specialists. Producers in the Skipton region can discuss drought management and fire recovery opportunities while connecting with like-minded farmers. ==================================================================Live music returned to the Great Ocean Road over the weekend as Lorne hosted a major free pop-up event. The seaside town became a live music hub for the day as part of the Victorian Vibes series. Crowds from across the region gathered along the coast to watch performances in the unique outdoor setting. ==================================================================Applications are now open for a new Resilient Farming Course tailored for producers in the Upper Barwon, Warrnambool, and Otway regions. This five-day program, running from August to November, focuses on sustainable techniques to build profitable and ecologically sound farming systems. ==================================================================Residents across Colac and the Corangamite region are looking to todays’s federal budget for relief from rising costs. With fuel and energy prices climbing alongside inflation, productivity in the South West has taken a significant hit. Innes Willox from the Australian Industry Group says difficult choices are needed now to protect the future of our regional areas. ==================================================================One Nation’s recent victory in the Farrer by-election is being viewed as a warning to the Coalition ahead of the Victorian state election. The result suggests a growing trend of regional voters moving away from major parties as they seek alternative representation. Political expert Dr. Zareh Ghazarian says the minor party’s plan to run local candidates could trigger a voting shift in the Colac Otway and Corangamite regions. ==================================================================AND IN SPORTThe Colac Braves were much more competitive in this weekends matches with the Division 1 side going down 14-5 to the Bellarine Bears. Division 3 recorded a win over Deakin Gold winning 8-5. ==================================================================The Corangamite Lions had a successful outing against Daylesford and Hepburn United. The Lions senior side won 6-1, with the women's winning 5-1. The men's seniors currently sit second on the ladder behind Ballarat SC, while the women's sit second behind Forest Rangers SC. ==================================================================In the weekends Colac Otway Rovers results the Reserves went down 5-3 to Corio SC on Friday night. Armstrong United won by 6 goals in the women's fixture while the seniors won by forfeit against Corio Bay. ==================================================================It's been a massive couple of weeks on the local golf scene. Colac Golfer Hunter Togni was crowned The Sands Golf Club's Club Champion for 2026. The women's Division 4 side from Colac won the South West Golf Association's Pennant with Colac defeating Clifton Springs 4-1 at Barwon Valley. ================================= See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for May 11, 2026.=================================Ahead of the federal budget's release tomorrow Member for Wannon Dan Tehan says early forecasts don't look good for those across the South West. Mr Tehan says he will watch eagerly, especially looking towards negative gearing capital gains tax concessions. ==================================================================Commuters on the Geelong line are facing more evening disruptions starting tonight as V/Line begins scheduled maintenance night works. From today through until May thirteenth, coaches will replace evening trains between Southern Cross and Waurn Ponds. For those traveling this evening, city-bound coaches start at eight-p-m and Waurn Ponds-bound services at nine-p-m. ==================================================================A sixty-year-old Camperdown man has successfully appealed a twelve-month jail sentence for the sexual assault of his teenage granddaughter. The man appeared in the Warrnambool County Court on May eighth, where his jail term was reduced to seven months. ==================================================================Colac School Students are encouraged to prepare to walk to school with the annual Walk to School Day this Friday May 17th with Walk to School events taking place the following week. Colac Police's Stef Ward says by simply walking to school healthy habits are being taught and encouraged. ==================================================================The Corangamite Shire Council has expressed strong disappointment after the State Budget overlooked funding for the Skipton Recreation Reserve. Mayor Kate Makin says the lack of support for the bushfire-struck community sends a discouraging message to residents still working to rebuild. ==================================================================Colac Area Health’s Alcohol and Other Drug Program is receiving over two hundred and sixty thousand dollars in funding from the state government. The investment will provide better consulting rooms and increased privacy for clients. New telehealth options are also being introduced to create a more welcoming and accessible space for those seeking help in the region. ==================================================================The Colac Otway Shire is calling for public input on its revised Draft Asset Management Policy. This document serves as the primary framework for how the council maintains and upgrades essential community infrastructure, including roads, drains, and public buildings. ==================================================================AND IN SPORTThe weekends CDFNL football results saw some drubbings with Lorne defeating Irrewarra-Beeac by 72. The Colac Imperials ran away 99 point winners over Apollo Bay. Alvie won by eight points over Simpson in a close encounter. On the netball court Lorne has a narrow 5 goal win over Irrewarra-Beeac. Colac Imperials smashed Apollo Bay, and Alvie closely beat Simpson. ==================================================================The Colac Tigers are back on the winners list after a 31 point football win over St Albans Micah Robb was named the Tigers best on ground after his four goal performance. The netballers also recorded a massive 41 goal win over St Albans. ==================================================================In the weekends Hampden League results Cobden suffered a 54 point defeat in the football to North Warrnambool. while Camperdown didn't fair much better going down by 76 to Koroit. In the netball Cobden flipped the result winning by 19, while Camperdown went down to Koroit by 16. ================================================================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for May 08, 2026.=====================================A truck rollover has delayed operations Geelong bound between Birregurra and Winchelsea on the Princes Highway for more than 15 hours little-to-no alerts or information provided from the Department of Transport. Member for Polwarth Richard Riordan says locals deserve better than having one of the countries largest arterial roads sectioned off with little-to-no explanation. ==========================================================================Police have used bank records and encrypted messaging data to secure a guilty plea from a Colac mechanic involved in online child sexual offences. ==========================================================================Today marks the official Do it for Dolly Day, and the Scoops of Kindness Tour is visiting two Colac schools. The Bulla ice cream van is scheduled to arrive at Colac Secondary College at eleven-ten this morning. ==========================================================================The G21 regional alliance says smaller communities further from main town centers have been overlooked in Tuesday's state budget. Chair and Colac Otway Shire Mayor Jason Schram says while any investment is helpful, the alliance wanted to see options that benefit the entire region. The group believes areas in the Colac Otway and Surf Coast shires are being underfunded compared to Geelong and Melbourne's outer west. ==========================================================================The Australian Hotels Association of Victoria is launching mates day at you local taking place tonight. Local pubs will be encouraging connection and checking in on your mates with both the Union and Austral featuring special deals this weekend. ==========================================================================Victorian industries are expected to have access to more affordable locally produced gas following the approval of the Annie Gas Field Project in the Otway Basin. ==========================================================================AND IN SPORTIn this weekends CDFNL action Irrewarra-Beeac hosts the Lorne Dolphins. The Colac Imperials have Apollo Bay. and Alvie faces Simpson. ==========================================================================In this weekends GFL action the Colac Tigers have St Albans at home. The Tigers are looking to bounce back after a big loss to South Barwon last week. ==========================================================================In this weekends Hampden League action Cobden hosts the North Warrnambool Eagles. While Camperdown faces Koroit at Leura Oval. ========================================================================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for May 07, 2026.===================================RoadSafe Otway is hosting Safe Plate Day this Mother's Day at Bunnings Colac. RoadSafe Otway's Matt Daniels says locals can get free anti-theft number plate screws fitted from 10 am. ======================================================================Surf Coast residents in Deans Marsh, Winchelsea, and Lorne are being urged to keep batteries out of their kerbside bins to prevent dangerous fires. ======================================================================Following an update at the April meeting, Corangamite Council will continue pushing for its Grow Corangamite scheme. Mayor Kate Makin says it’s essential for protecting the shire's farming legacy. ======================================================================Climate change and the environment are front and center in the latest Berrybank Wind Farm grant round. ======================================================================South West Healthcare’s workforce has surged by sixteen percent over the last five years. C-E-O Craig Fraser expects growth to continue under the new strategic plan, though at a slightly steadier pace. ======================================================================Local sporting clubs in the South West can receive a bag of game footballs valued at thirteen hundred dollars by participating in a new safety initiative. The WorkSafe prize is awarded to the club that nominates the most individual farmers for the Footy’s Favourite Farmer competition. ======================================================================AND IN SPORT This weekend the Colac Otway Rovers have a full slate of matches. The women take on Armstong United. The mens Seniors take on Corio SC and the reserves play Corio Bay. ======================================================================It's as a big weekend for the Colac Braves as they search for their first win for 2026. Round 5 action sees a double header at home with Division 1 playing the Bellarine Bears and Division 3 taking on Deakin. ======================================================================The Kangaroobie Base Camp Ultra Relay is now a permanent fixture on the Princetown East Running Calendar and takes place this weekend. Inspired by the Ragnar Relay Series and The Amazing Race, the event tasks each runner with covering a total distance of fifty-four kilometers. The distance is completed over several separate outings rather than a single run. ====================================================================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for May 06, 2026.===================================Following the summer fires across the Otways and Skipton regions, health professionals are reminding emergency service volunteers about the long term mental health impacts being a first responder might cause. Emergency Services Lived Experiences Lead Dr Tara Lal says its becoming increasingly important that smaller remote areas offer high quality services for those that can't attend metropolitan health clinics. ======================================================================Tourism and conservation across the Colac Otway Shire have received a major boost in yesterday’s State Budget. Nearly eight million dollars has been allocated to restore the historic Cape Otway Lightstation and renew sections of the Twelve Apostles Precinct. The funding aims to preserve our natural beauty while upgrading infrastructure within the Great Ocean Road parks. ======================================================================Residents and workplaces across the Colac Otway region are being encouraged to join together and have a 'cuppa for a cause' this month as part of Australia's Biggest Morning Tea. Since 2012, the annual event has helped raise more than $200 million dollars across the country. ======================================================================Laughter, learning and river-side adventure are on the menu when families, locals and visitors come together for the Curdies Family Fun Day on Saturday 16 May, from 10.00 am to 2.00 pm at Peterborough Hall. General Manager Community and Catchment Services Corangamite CMA Sarah Holland-Clift says free, family-friendly celebration puts the spotlight on the Curdies River and its catchment. ======================================================================There has never been a better time to book a getaway to Lorne, with a massive thirty-three thousand dollars in local spend cards up for grabs. It is all part of the Surf Coast Shire’s "Stay and Win" initiative to support local businesses after a challenging summer of flooding and bushfire risks. ======================================================================Victorian Fisheries Authority CEO Travis Dowling says the Snobs Creek Hatchery's Open Day was a roaring success celebrating the premier native fish breeding facility. Dowling says the the hatchery breed the majority of the fish used to restock South West waterways such as Lake Purrumbete and Lake Bullen Merri. ======================================================================AND IN SPORTThe C-D-F-N-L has locked in its leadership for the twenty-twenty-six Senior Interleague campaign. Senior coach Kane Leersen will be supported by a powerhouse specialist panel, including Mahoney Medallist Bailey Scott managing the midfield and Alvie premiership footballer Patrick Seal overseeing the forwards. Irrewarra-Beeac coach Cooper Stephens rounds out the group as the back-line lead. This elite team will oversee a forty-two-player squad selected from across the region. ======================================================================The region’s top basketballers have been recognized with the announcement of this year's Colac Kookas Awards for Season 2025/26. Asha Higgins and Billy Keast took out the under-twelves MVP's, Reagan Smart and Harry Callahan won the under-fourteens. They were joined by under-sixteen stars Stella Foley and Ted Hay, and under-eighteen winners Jess Dellar and Izaac Tate. Luka Gerber and Indi Cameron were named CBL senior MVP's. ======================================================================Mayhem Pro's Colac Carnage is gearing up to be the largest Colac wrestling event ever with a 6-way Mayhem Mosh Pit match. Tickets are still available for the event which is at the Colac RSL this Saturday night.====================================================================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for May 05, 2026.==================================A three vehicle collision yesterday left parts of the Great Ocean Road between Lavers Hill and Princetown closed in both directions. A blue Hyundai hatch collided head on with the minibus in Gellibrand Lower just before 12pm yesterday. ====================================================================Results are in from this years edition of the Otway Trail Run with more than $35,000 raised for Colac Area Health Foundation. Colac Area Health Foundation's Ami Hillage says the funds raise money for much needed equipment and facility upgrades. ====================================================================The Corangamite Catchment Management Authority and Wannon Water have officially strengthened their long-standing partnership. The Chairs of both organizations signed a formal agreement to deliver better environmental outcomes for South West Victoria. ====================================================================South West healthcare has launched a new strategic plan for the next 5 years which will help guide services and care for those in Camperdown and surrounding areas. Chief Executive Craig Fraser says The health care provider is keen to further develop the Camperdown Hospital. ====================================================================As whales make their annual return to the South West, the Conservation Regulator is asking Great Ocean Road boat operators to drop their speed. Barwon South West Regulatory Operations Manager Glenn Sharp says keeping a safe distance isn't just a courtesy, it’s a legal obligation for every boat and drone user on the water. ====================================================================Winchelsea C-F-A volunteers have taken delivery of a new four-hundred-and-thirty-thousand-dollar heavy tanker. The versatile vehicle is designed to tackle both town and country fires safely and effectively. ====================================================================AND IN SPORTIt was a tough weekend for the Colac Otway Rovers with both senior sides suffering defeats. The Rovers Division 2 side went down 6-0. The Reserves went down 2-1 against Barwon SC, with John Lapalui scoring. ====================================================================It was a tough weekend on the mound for the Colac Braves baseballers with Division 1 going down 15-4 against the Guild All Stars. In Division 3 The Braves lost 13-4 to the Corio Tigers. ================================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

May the Fourth be with you.====================================================Colac residents have another chance to turn recycling into serious cash with the Win A Million Cents competition returning tomorrow. Every fifty containers returned earns you an entry to win ten-thousand dollars. With sixteen million containers already recycled in the Colac Otway region, the next big winner could be local. Minister for the Environment Enver Erdogan says the program has been an overwhelming success. ========================================================================================================Colac Otway Shire Council is entering the next phase of management for the Hearn Street Youth and Recreation Centre. Following an Expression of Interest process, Colac Area Health has been named the preferred proponent to manage the facility. Mayor Jason Schram says this is a key step toward activating the centre for broad community benefit. ========================================================================================================A Moonee Ponds transport company has been slapped with a four-thousand-dollar fine following a gruesome spill near Camperdown. In late February, a truck carrying animal by-products leaked blood and tissue along a hundred-and-fifty-metre stretch of the Princes Highway at Gnotuk. CFA crews were called to scrub the "smelly mess" just five hundred metres from Lake Gnotuk. ========================================================================================================Victoria police are on a recruitment drive as they try and fill more than 1500 vacancies across the state. The most recent batch of recruits include a butcher, concreter, barista, personal trainer and operating theater technician. ========================================================================================================Colac Otway Shire has released its Draft 2026-27 Budget. Shire CEO Andrew Tenni says the plan prioritises essential services and thirteen million dollars in capital works. ========================================================================================================Corangamite and Colac Otway farmers could benefit if the Victorian Farmers Federation gets their way... as they call for the Federal Government to deliver a $1.3 billion fuel crisis payment to primary producers in their May Budget ========================================================================================================AND IN SPORTThe weekends CDFNL round saw some smashings in the football. Colac Imperials were 115 point winners against the Western Eagles. Lorne won by 81 points against Otway Districts. In other closer results South Colac beat Birregurra by 20, and Simpson won by 5 points against Apollo Bay. In the netball Otway Districts registered its first win of the season with 2 goal win over Lorne. Biiregurra beat South Colac, Simpson smashed Apollo Bay, and Colac Imperials was too good for the Western Eagles. ========================================================================================================The Colac Tigers suffered a big loss on Saturday at the hands of South Barwon. Chaise Murray was named Colac's best as South Barwon ran away 64 point winners. On the netball court the Tigers also suffered a big loss going down by 45 goals. ========================================================================================================In the weekends Hampden League results in the football Cobden went down by 3 points against the Hamilton Kangaroos. Camperdown went down at the hands of the Warrnambool Blues. In the netball Cobden had a 43 goal win over Hamilton while Camperdown lost against Warrnambool. ======================================================================================================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for April 30, 2026.==================================Local fishing clubs are set for a major boost. The Colac Anglers Club and the Otway Regional Sports Fishing Club have both grants in V-F-A funding for equipment and facility upgrades. ====================================================================Corangamite Shire is taking a major step toward future-proofing early years services in Skipton. Council has officially authorized a funding application to the Victorian School Building Authority to expand the local kindergarten. ====================================================================Big names in entertainment are expected to add Colac to their national tours. Following Council's decision to discuss outsourcing COPACC management to I-V-G, CEO Andrew Tenni says the venue is poised to attract a higher caliber of touring artists. ====================================================================Despite no comment regarding overcrowding or the need for increased services, V/Line has announced that trains will return a week early following a massive infrastructure blitz. CEO Will Tieppo says sixteen million dollars has been spent on critical renewals, including bridge repairs and track works. ====================================================================Patients across Colac and the South West could miss out on life-saving breakthroughs unless the state’s medical research sector receives an urgent funding boost. Ten of Victoria’s leading institutes are reportedly facing closure without immediate help in the upcoming state budget.================================== ==================================Farmers in Deans Marsh and business owners along the Great Ocean Road are set to receive continued rate relief in the new Surf Coast Shire Draft Budget. ================================== ==================================AND IN SPORTThis weekend the Colac Braves Division 1 side will travel to take on the Guild All-Stars at the Geelong Baseball Centre. The Division 3 side will also travel facing the Corio Tigers. ================================== ==================================Simpson will be without gun Ryleigh McVilly this weekend after receiving a rough conduct charge against Irrewarra-Beeac. The incident occurred in the first quarter and was graded as careless, high impact and high contact. ================================== ==================================The Colac Otway Rovers are hunting for a bounce-back win following a tough round of defeats. The senior side is set to face Surf Coast F-C while the Reserves travel to take on Barwon’s third-division team in grading matches. ================================== ================================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for April 29, 2026.===============================Shadow Minister for Public Transport Matthew Guy was at the Colac Train Station yesterday joined by local Members Richard Riordan and Roma Britnell to speak about the issues the Warrnambool line trains are currently facing. Mr Guy says there are multiple short, mid and long term fixes to combat overcrowding and booking issues. ==============================================================University of Melbourne scientists have discovered the 12 Apostles are millions of years younger than previously estimated. Scientists at the University of Melbourne have uncovered how the iconic Apostles were formed... finding tectonic plate movements over millions of years... lifted and tilted the giant structures out of the sea ==============================================================A twenty-eight-year-old from Camperdown has been sentenced to jail after being caught with five-thousand-dollars worth of methamphetamine. The man was intercepted by police on the Lismore-Camperdown Road in a rental car, where officers found eleven grams of the drug, scales, and a balaclava. ==============================================================A multitude of events are on the horizon for the Corangamite Catchment Management Authority centered around sustainable agriculture. Sustainable Ag Facilitator Karen O'Keefe says sustainable practices are adopted in conjunction with ongoing feedback from local land users and land holders. ==============================================================A week on from Grounded Festival at Andrew and Jill Stewart's Yan Yan Gurt West farm, the family has finally had time to recuperate following a special event. Host and farmer Andrew Stewart says it was rewarding seeing the community connection fostered at the festival. ==============================================================A four-month crime spree that reached deep into the Otway Ranges has resulted in a thirty-one-year-old man being remanded in custody. The court heard the series of offenses included high-end vehicle thefts and a brazen raid on an old cheese factory site in Simpson. ==============================================================AND IN SPORTThe C-D-C-A is launching its twelve-week Winter Academy at the Eastern Reserve. Starting Monday, May 25th, the program offers expert coaching in batting, bowling, and advanced game skills for under-thirteen, fifteen, and seventeen age groups. Registration is ninety dollars, and with limited spots, priority is being given to Country Week and pathway players. ==============================================================Congratulations are in order for our local junior netballers following the announcement of the Hampden F-N-L Association Championship teams. Camperdown is well represented with Kiara Love making the U-17s, while Olive Wills, Taylor Cameron, Maddi Lucas, and Abi Sinnott headline the U-15 squad. Terang-Mortlake’s talent is also on display, with Lyla Grundy and Matilda Conheady earning spots. ==============================================================It was a high-stakes weekend for the Colac Bowling Club at the Moama Bowling Club. Representing our region at the State Pennant Championships, the local team battled through sectional rounds against elite metropolitan and country sides. Club officials say the experience has been "incredibly rewarding," providing the squad with a chance to test their skills on the state's biggest stage.=============================== =============================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for April 28, 2026.==================================Heading into the winter months Barwon Water's Geelong levels sit just under where they were this time last year despite local storages in a much better position. This time last year Geelong water levels sat at 39 per cent, with the current levels sitting at under 37 percent. Currently Colac is more than 10 per cent better off than last year sitting at 64.5 percent. Lorne currently sits at 99 per cent, and Apollo Bay a whopping 60 percent more full. This time last year Apollo Bay was at 28.2 per cent which pales in comparison to 88.3 currently. ====================================================================A twenty-one-year-old from Cobden is facing a lengthy sentence after pleading guilty to a violent armed robbery at the base of Mount Leura. The court heard the offender used a knife and a balaclava to terrorize a former schoolmate before stealing his phone, cash, and an Xbox. Having already spent three hundred days in custody, the man is now scheduled to be sentenced in the Warrnambool County Court on May 4th. ====================================================================In the Corangamite and Colac Otway regions, over four-hundred farm consultations have already been delivered to help producers manage the dry. ====================================================================The Corangamite Shire has secured nearly one-hundred-and-thirty-seven thousand dollars from the State Government to upgrade local sports facilities. The lion’s share—nearly ninety-seven thousand dollars—will fund new lighting for the multipurpose courts at the Timboon Recreation Reserve. Shire officials say the investment will provide more opportunities for night-time sport and community connection, ensuring our local athletes can stay active year-round. ====================================================================Corangamite Shire Council has officially hit a one-hundred-percent completion rate for its road and footpath projects for the twenty-twenty-five, twenty-six season. ====================================================================The Princes Highway West has been named a high-priority target in the state’s latest record-breaking roads budget. A thirty-six-million-dollar "clean-up blitz" will target the ten busiest freeways, including the Princes, to remove rubbish and graffiti while ensuring signs and safety barriers are replaced.====================================================================The Winchelsea Fire Brigade has significantly boosted its regional defense with the arrival of a state-of-the-art heavy tanker. Replacing an older medium unit, the new truck carries four-thousand litres of water and features advanced crew protection systems for high-stress burn-over events. ====================================================================AND IN SPORTColac sits on top of the South West Golf Association Division 1 Pennant Golf association after a commanding win over Curlewis. Division 4 also had a strong win over Inverleigh and currently sit second, with Apollo Bay in 5th after a draw with East Geelong.====================================================================The Colac Braves went down in both matches of their ANZAC Day double headers against the East Belmont Saints. Division 1 went down by 21 runs, while Division 3 went down by 10. ==================================================================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for April 27, 2026.===================================G21 is demanding the Victorian Government look beyond cheap fares and invest in actual service upgrades for Colac in the upcoming State Budget. ======================================================================The Barongarook West CFA is set for a major transformation following the announcement of the twenty-twenty-six, twenty-seven Victorian Budget. ======================================================================The Great Ocean Road Running Festival returns on May 16th and 17th, bringing a world-class atmosphere to our local coastal towns. ======================================================================Work is well underway on Mt Noorat’s new viewing platform and weather shelter. Management Committee Chair Will Conheady says despite some recent weather delays, construction is on track for completion by late May. ======================================================================A trains forum featuring local politicians will be held tomorrow in Colac and Camperdown. Member for Polwarth Richard Riordan will be joined by Shadow Minister for Public Transport Matthew Guy and Member for the South West Coast Roma Britnell. ======================================================================The Surf Coast Shire is calling for local groups in Winchelsea to apply for the twenty-twenty-six Climate Emergency Grants. Previous winners include Winchelsea Primary School, which partnered with the Common Ground Project for regenerative gardening. Councillor Phoebe Crockett says twenty-thousand dollars is up for grabs to help lift community projects off the ground. ======================================================================AND IN SPORTIn the CDFNL's ANZAC round Lorne was too good for South Colac on Saturday night winning by 38 seconds. South Colac won the A Grade netball. In yesterday's football fixtures, Alvie smashed Otway Districts. Colac Imperials dismantled Birregurra. Western Eagles won against Apollo Bay and Irrewarra-Beeac was too good for Simpson. In the netball Otway Districts had its first win of 2026. Irrewarra-Beeac beat Simpson, Western Eagles defeated Apollo Bay. and Birregurra beat the Colac Imperials. ======================================================================It was an unfortunate day for the Colac Tigers yesterday with both football and netball sides going down to Leopold yesterday. The Tigers lost by 2 points unable to hold on against a final quarter fightback from Leopold. The Tigers led by 19 points going into the final term. The netballers went down by 13 goals. ======================================================================Neither of the regions Hampden League football teams were successful over the weekend with Camperdown going down by 13 points to North Warrnambool on the Saturday. Cobden went down by 50 against Terang-Mortlake yesterday. In the netball Camperdown lost by 1 goal, and Cobden lost by 3. ====================================================================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for April 24, 2026.====================================The Frank Minchinton Centre is celebrating ten years of providing world-class cancer care to the Colac Otway community. Affectionately known as the F-M-C, the facility has saved local patients a staggering 140,000 kilometres of travel since it first opened its doors. ========================================================================Having a world-class event on our doorstop has earnt the praise of local farmers including Beeac's Lachie Barclay, who says events such as Grounded Festival help grow the support networks surrounding farming practices. Barclay also says the current geopolitical climate is seeing a rise in people turn to sustainable practises as the future of diesel and fertiliser becomes uncertain. ========================================================================With Anzac Day tomorrow Colac RSL President Peter Wilkes hopes to see the Colac community out in their droves. Mr Wilkes says its a special day, remembering those who paid the ultimate price to ensure the freedoms we live with today. ========================================================================Speaking at Deans Marsh's Grounded Festival, Timboon Dairy Farmer Simon Schulz from Schulz Organic Dairy says opening the dialogue between other like minded farmers is key to navigating future challenged that lie ahead in the industry. Schulz, a third generation dairy farmer says laws surrounding raw milk trade, and prices in comparison to overseas imports are key changes he would like to see. ========================================================================Activities and events will be held all across the region this weekend to celebrate ANZAC Day remembering the efforts of those who have served our country. Colac Otway Shire CEO Andrew Tenni encouraged locals to get out and about, celebrating the day right across the region. ======================================================================== Following a massive opening in Ballarat, the free regional music series Victorian Vibes is heading to Lorne. On Saturday, May 2nd, the surf coast town will be transformed into a live music hub with spontaneous pop-up performances in unexpected locations. ALWAYS LIVE Chief Executive Psyche Payne says Lorne’s deep musical soul makes it the perfect next stop. To get exact times and secret locations, fans must register at always live dot com dot au. ======================================================================== The Federal Government is injecting over four-and-a-half million dollars into the Wannon electorate to fix notorious road black spots. The funding is part of a larger forty-eight million dollar state-wide safety blitz. Key projects include a two-point-three million dollar upgrade at the Princes Highway and Conns Lane intersection in Birregurra, which will see the median closed and new safety barriers installed. ========================================================================AND IN SPORTAfter its roaring success in 2025, The CDFNL's Interleague match with the GDFNL is back for 2026 scheduled for the King's Birthday weekend. CDFNL Board Member Paul Liistro confirmed, hoping that the match builds on the success of last year. ========================================================================It's a massive round of CDFNL footy headlined by the ANZAC Day clash between South Colac and Lorne tomorrow night. Other fixtures will be played on Sunday with Australia's Governor General expected to make an appearance at the Otway Districts and Alvie clash in Gellibrand. Colac Imperials host Birregurra. Apollo Bay will search for their second win in a row against the Western Eagles. and Irrewarra-Beeac faces Simpson. ========================================================================Its a massive clash this weekend for the Colac Tigers as they travel to Leopold for Sunday's clash. The Tigers currently sit 1 and 1,...

Here is what is making news for April 23, 2026.===================================As part of National Palliative Care Week, Anam Cara Colac is inviting the community to a special event featuring author and cultural anthropologist Dr. Hannah Gould. Dr. Gould will discuss her new book, How to Die in the 21st Century, exploring contemporary death and religion in Australia. The session kicks off at 11 AM on Monday, May 11th, at Anam Cara on Forans Road in Barongarook. ======================================================================With an El Niño season looking increasingly likely, the Bureau of Meteorology is urging farmers ACROSS COLAC OTWAY AND CORANGAMITE regions to use long-range forecasts for the best possible probability of what the season will deliver. CEO of the BOM Dr Stuart Minchin spoke to ACE Radio's Country Today program talking about the chaos of weather prediction and the scrutiny the organisation has faced with its updated website. ======================================================================A five-hundred-million-dollar sports and tourism project southwest of Geelong on Cape Otway Road is reportedly facing collapse as creditors move to recover unpaid debts. Allegations have surfaced that some consultants are still chasing payment for work completed nearly five years ago on the two-hundred-and-twenty-hectare site. ======================================================================Community groups across the Corangamite Shire are being urged to start planning for the twenty-twenty-six Victorian Seniors Festival.======================================================================Colac's search for it's newest group of volunteers is underway with the countdown on for the Colac Volunteer Expo which is just under a month away. The event will be held at COPACC on May 19th. Salvation Army's Josiah Van Niekerk says its about finding volunteers across all walks of live for all different sorts of organisations. ======================================================================Seafood Industry Victoria has launched its twenty-twenty-six election plan, aiming to safeguard the future of historic fishing hubs like Apollo Bay. ======================================================================AND IN SPORTGrading matches kick off this weekend for the Colac Tigers cohort of junior footballers, with the Under 12s playing Geelong Ammos, Under 14s facing Leopold, Under 16s up against Leopold and the Under 18s versing Grovedale. Junior Committee member Nick Hay says the Tigers will field a full contingent of players across all junior age groups. ======================================================================The Colac Braves Baseball club have a double header against the East Belmont Saints this Saturday at Eastern Reserve. Division 3 action kicks off proceedings at 12 pm with Division 1 starting at 2.25pm. ======================================================================The Corangamite Sportsmen’s Club has crowned its March winners on Tuesday night, with cricket dominating the highlights. Bailey Fox was the Junior Sports Star after a massive month, averaging 107 with the bat to claim the C-D-C-A Under 14 M-V-P. In the senior ranks, Matthew Love took top honors. =================================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for April 22, 2026.==============================A very special visitor will be in the Colac region this weekend with Australia's Governor General - Ms Sam Moyston touching down this Sunday morning. Colac Otway Shire CEO Andrew Tenni says having someone as high profile as the Governor-General shows the strength of community that was displayed during the earlier months of this year. ============================================================Its a jam-packed weekend for the Colac RSL opening the doors for returned servicemen, guest speakers and even national media outlets. Colac RSL President Peter Wilkes says preparations are underway for a mammoth weekend for the local branch. ============================================================The State Government's decision to extend free public transport for another month statewide has drawn fresh criticism from its opposition especially in the South West. Despite the announcement of free public transport for the month of April, buses replaced much of the Warrnambool lines trains as lineworks were completed with many locals opting to drive anyway, to stop overcrowding and for ease of travel. Member for Polwarth Richard Riordan says the Warrnambool line has long deteriorated and been forgotten about. ============================================================The Curdies River Coordinating Committee is inviting locals to an event celebrating one of the regions critical waterways on May 16th. ============================================================Crime has been on the rise with incidents ranging from business to private property damage. Colac Police sergeant Michelle Delaney says its a shame to see criminal damage incidents across the region. ============================================================New ABS data shows the Corangamite Shire’s population has continued its long-term decline, falling to 15,712 residents. While there was a small natural increase of just twelve people last year, more residents are leaving for other parts of the country than arriving. ============================================================AND IN SPORTThere will be a Colac flavour to Anzac Day preparations in Adelaide this weekend with former Irrewarra-Beeac footballer Ryley Walker featuring in the curtain raiser for Port Adelaide and Geelong's Saturday night fixture. Walker will represent the Australian Defence Force after strong form for the Royal Australian Navy Football Team, and will play on the Adelaide Oval this Saturday against the Combined Emergency Services. ============================================================Corangamite Lions have locked in their leadership for twenty-twenty-six. Seb Hulme and Roman Fachetti have been named co-captains for the Division One Men’s side. Josh Laverty will take the reins as captain for the Division Two squad. ============================================================ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for April 22, 2026.=================================A thirty-four-year-old Colac district man has been hit with ten charges following a major investigation into stolen livestock. Police allege that forty cattle were taken from a Pirron Yallock property in late February and later recovered at an abattoir in Tongala, over three hundred kilometres away. The charges include four theft-related offences and six counts under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act. Following his arrest by Colac detectives, the man has been released and will face court at a later date. ==================================================================The Victorian Government has announced a record funding pool for emergency volunteers, specifically targeting brigades with limited fundraising capacity. For Colac Otway stations that battled the recent January blazes with decades-old equipment, this is a vital opportunity to modernize. ==================================================================The winners of the 2026 Youth Art Futures Competition have been revealed, showcasing the incredible talent of artists aged twelve to twenty-five. In the senior category, Syria Parrott took home first place for her piece titled Ether, while Isabelle Pilley claimed the top prize for the twelve-to-eighteen-year-olds. ==================================================================Sunnyside House has approached the Corangamite Shire with a plan to build a new community wellbeing centre and dementia wing. ==================================================================Eligible older residents across the Colac Otway and Corangamite regions will soon have access to free RSV vaccinations. The Federal Government has officially added the jab to the National Immunisation Program, with the rollout set to begin next month. Catherine Hughes from the Immunisation Foundation of Australia has welcomed the move, highlighting its importance for protecting vulnerable seniors. ==================================================================With students returning to school this week across Colac and Corangamite, drivers are being reminded to observe speed limits in school zones. While some schools have permanent reduced speed limits in place, others only apply during set times. Roadsafe’s Andy Milbourne is urging motorists to slow down and take extra care. ==================================================================AND IN SPORTIt was a successful hitout for Colac's under 12 contingent of basketballers with the Under 12 Girls reaching the quarter finals of their respective division. The Girls had wins against Leongatha, and Phillip Island before falling to Echuca in the Quarter Finals. The Boys had wins on Friday against Mansfield and Warracknabeal. Reaching the Quarter Finals on Saturday the Boys defeated Warracknabeal and Bendigo before losing to Wallan. ==================================================================Colac’s Nash Charles is a national medalist after clinching Bronze at the Junior Athletics Championships in Brisbane. Nash secured the podium finish with a massive new personal best of 12.32 metres in the triple jump. ==================================================================The Colac Braves Division One team showed early intent this weekend but were eventually overrun in a twenty-to-six loss. Kyne Watts was the standout at the plate with three R-B-Is, while Brendan Delorenzo worked hard through five innings on the mound. Meanwhile, in a much tighter contest at Bellarine, the Division Three side fought to the end but narrowly went down two-to-one. ================================================================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for April 20, 2026.=====================================The finalists for the 2026 Corangamite Business Awards have been officially named. From more than fifty nominations, fifteen local businesses have qualified as finalists, with three selected in each of the five categories. Mayor Kate Makin congratulated the finalists, noting the high level of service and community impact shown by all nominees. ==========================================================================Tomorrow and Wednesday will see a Yan Yan Gurt West farm transformed into a place of conversation about better farm practices. The 2026 Grounded Festival rings together international, national and local food and farming experts to explore better ways to care for land, soil, water, animals and communities. Local and Farm Host Andrew Stewart says the festival will have many experts able to provide a different opinions to farming programs. ==========================================================================Movember is among those leading calls for routine mental health screening of new fathers in regions like the South West following the release of a new report Michael Wilson from the Movember Institute of Men's Health says the report suggests more needs to be done to support new dads ==========================================================================Wannon M-P Dan Tehan has extended a sincere thank you to all local groups who submitted expressions of interest for the 2025–26 Volunteer Grants Program. The program offers grants between one and five thousand dollars to help community organisations support their volunteers. ==========================================================================The Victorian Farmers Federation's nominations for the Horticulture Council are still open. Locals can nominate to be the Western Representative, which represents the Corangamite, Glenelg Hopkins and Wimmera regions. ==========================================================================A twenty-eight-year-old Winchelsea man has learned an expensive lesson after being fined ten thousand dollars in the Geelong Magistrates Court. The court heard he entered the Otway Forest Park in August last year to chop down trees because he was "cold" and wanted wood to burn immediately. ==========================================================================AND IN SPORTIn the weekend's CDFNL action - the story of the round was the breakthrough win for Apollo Bay with a 3 point win over Birregurra in the football. It was Apollo Bay's first win since round 12 in 2024. Lorne defeated Colac Imperials by 23 points. Alvie defeated South Colac by 87, Irrewarra-Beeac beat Otway by 66, and Simpson also caused an upset victorious over the Western Eagles by 17. In the netball results Birregurra smashed Apollo Bay by 72 goals. Irrewarra-Beeac notched its first win against Otway. Colac Imperials defeated Lorne, South Colac was too strong for Alvie, and Simpson won against the Western Eagles. ==========================================================================The Colac Tigers are on the board for 2026 after a 16 point win against the Geelong West Giants. The Tigers netballers also had win 56-51 over Geelong West. ==========================================================================In Hampden League results - the Cobden Bombers defeated Port Fairy by 11 points in the football, while Hamilton was too strong for Camperdown by 54. On the netball courts - Cobden lost by one goal, while Camperdown drew with Hamilton. ========================================================================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for April 10, 2026.================================A south-west drone spraying business has been convicted and fined fifteen thousand dollars in the Colac Magistrates' Court following a significant spray-drift incident. ================================================================The Corangamite Catchment Management Authority is working with local councils and V-I-C-S-E-S to deliver a series of vital flood studies across the region. Research is currently focused on priority areas including the Curdies Catchment, Barham River, and Anglesea, assessing how intense rain events and climate change may impact local infrastructure. ================================================================South West commuters are bracing for a month of travel chaos as V/Line shifts the Warrnambool line to a coach-replacement timetable starting April tomorrow. ================================================================The Western Eagles will start their season on the road as the Irrewillipe Recreation Reserve has been deemed unsuitable for play. The ground was used as a vital staging area for emergency vehicles during the January bushfires, leaving the surface damaged by heavy traffic. ================================================================The Great Ocean Road is set to become a stage for some of the state’s best contemporary artists as Victorian Vibes hits the road. The free live music series, backed by the State Government, will deliver surprise pop-up performances in venues and unexpected street locations. ================================================================The Friends Of the Colac Botanic Gardens are having an Autumn fundraising plant sale tomorrow. Beginning at 10am the volunteer group will run the sale until noon. It's the perfect opportunity for Colac's green thumbs to restock ahead of winter, and prepare for next spring. ================================================================AND IN SPORTThe Colac Otway Rovers will travel down the highway for a Saturday night fixture against the Warrnambool Wolves. It's the first ever time the Colac Otway Rovers have featured in the South West Cup - which features teams from Warrnambool, Hamilton and Port Fairy. Rovers Coach Darren Balboni says he is looking to see how some new recruits play. ================================================================CDFNL Action resumes this weekend with Otway Districts hosting the Simpson Tigers. Irrewarra Beeac travels to South Colac. While Birregurra faces the Western Eagles. ================================================================The Colac Tigers begin their 2026 campaign at home tomorrow. The Tigers face the reigning premiers in St Mary's in a twilight fixture. Kicking off at 4.30pm the day also has two big events with the Ladies on the Hill and Buddy Day. ================================================================ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for April 08, 2026.====================================The Salvation Army Colac kicks off its mini movers program today aimed at getting kids outdoors and involved in sport. Local team leader Josiah Van Niekerk says the program is a great way to get kids moving, active and engaging in healthy habits. ========================================================================Blaze Aid is searching for more volunteers to help out as they look to help rebuild key infrastructure destroyed in January fires. The organisation posted on social media saying they are low on volunteers at their Gellibrand base camp. ========================================================================Colac Area Health is set to receive a significant boost as part of a twenty-million-dollar state government investment into mental health and addiction services. Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney, announced nearly two-hundred-and-sixty-five thousand dollars for the Connor Street facility. ========================================================================After decades of being moved between the school, the pool, and the lifesaving club, Lorne’s Anzac Memorial finally has a permanent home. ========================================================================The Surf Coast Shire has officially earned ECO Destination Certification, marking a major milestone for sustainable tourism in the region. ========================================================================It's a massive weekend down at Lake Colac's foreshore this weekend with the second instalment of the Catch-a-carp festival. Victorian Fisheries Authority CEO Travis Dowling is looking forward to this Sunday after the success of the events launch last year.========================================================================AND IN SPORTIt was a massive weekend for the regions local football exports at State League Level. A trio of Colac Tigers exports delivered starring performances. Brisbane Lions forward Will McLachlan kicked 2 goals, 3 and had 20 touches against Sandringham. Cooper Stephens had 31 disposals and a goal for East Perth against Subiaco. And Fremantle's Tobyn Murray kicked 2 goals in his first WAFL match for Peel Thunder.========================================================================Cycling legend Cadel Evans is calling on visitors to return to Lorne following a summer marred by fires and floods. The Lorne Stay & Win competition launches this Thursday, offering a chance to win local spend cards valued at up to five hundred dollars. The thirty-three-thousand-dollar prize pool was generously donated by professional cycling teams after the cancellation of January’s Surf Coast Classic. ======================================================================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.