The South West Daily

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.

Here is what is making news for April 7, 2026.=================================Regional communities have once again demonstrated their generosity, contributing significantly to the 2026 Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal raising nearly $6 million from a Australia wide total of more than $25 million. Colac played its part raising 37-thousand-900-and-59 dollars. Nearby towns such as Cobden raised more than 18,00 dollars, Camperdown 38,000, and Apollo Bay just under $18,000 dollars. ==================================================================Tourism leaders say regional Victoria has held strong over the Easter long weekend, with iconic destinations reporting high visitation. Lisa Patroni, C-E-O of the Victorian Tourism Industry Council, says the Great Ocean Road, Grampians, and Sovereign Hill have all seen a significant influx of travelers over the past four days.==================================================================VicGrid has completed its latest consultation on Victoria’s renewable energy zones, receiving five-hundred-and-eighty submissions from across the state. The draft Central Highlands zone, which spans the Corangamite, Golden Plains, and Pyrenees shires, is now under final assessment. ==================================================================An investigation into Victoria’s deadly summer bushfires has been delayed, sparking fears that vital safety recommendations won't be ready before the next fire season. The Inspector General for Emergency Management will now wait until a separate parliamentary inquiry is finished before starting her review. While Premier Jacinta Allan initially promised a swift investigation, Nationals Leader Danny O’Brien says any delay in getting answers for affected communities is unacceptable.==================================================================The Lorne and Cobden communities are celebrating a massive expansion of the Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program. ==================================================================Four-year-old kindergarten is being transformed across the Corangamite Shire as the state’s Pre-Prep rollout officially begins. Minister Lizzie Blandthorn announced that local families are among those in twelve new regional areas now eligible for increased hours of play-based learning. ==================================================================AND IN SPORTGood Friday Footy saw varying results in the CDFNL. The Colac Imperials defeated Alvie in last years Grand Final rematch by 20 points. While Lorne flexed its muscles in the Coastal Cup to down Apollo Bay by 86 points. On the netball Court Imps beat Alvie 46-44, and Lorne was 41 goal victors against Apollo Bay. ==================================================================It was a rough first ever opening match for the Surf Coast Suns as they were handed a 148 point drubbing at the hands of cross-town rivals Torquay in their first ever club match. The Suns - captained by former Irrewarra-Beeac footballers Dylan Flanigan and Joss Howlett, also featured former Bombers Mitch Gaunt, and 2023 Jack Mahoney medallist Tyler Flanigan. ==================================================================G-F-L action kicked off at Lorne over the weekend with St Joseph's clinical in a ninety-one-point win over Leopold. The regular season officially begins this Saturday with the Colac Tigers hosting St Mary's. ================================================================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for March 02, 2026.================================Authorities have confirmed that two pythons discovered at an Apollo Bay property on Monday were stolen. An investigation into the incident revealed the reptiles had been taken from their rightful owner, who has since come forward. ================================================================Nearly eighty percent of marine rescues are for avoidable issues like engine failure or running out of fuel. Safe Transport Victoria's Shane Leversha says Before launching along the Great Ocean Road this Easter, check your batteries and ensure you have a third of your fuel in reserve. ================================================================Shadow Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Darren Chester is demanding "less talk and more action" to combat the European carp crisis. Speaking in Federal Parliament, Mr. Chester backed the Victorian Fisheries Authority’s push for a 2028 release date for the carp herpes virus. He warned that the invasive species now makes up ninety percent of fish biomass in some waterways, destroying the biodiversity in places such as Lake Colac. ================================================================Police are highlighting the power of home surveillance after an eighteen-year-old was arrested following a series of raids at Colac addresses. The man has been charged with twelve offences, including burglary and thefts from vehicles across Camperdown and Warrnambool in March. ================================================================Colac Otway Shire is inviting residents to help shape the future of local travel. Feedback is now open on a new draft policy to prioritise upgrades across sixteen-hundred kilometres of council roads. Shire CEO Andrew Tenni says residents can visit the council website to have your say before Tuesday, May 5th. ================================================================Local Police will be out in force over the Easter Long weekend, with an increased presence and testing sites to be set up across the region. Colac Police Spokesperson Jamie Kahle says Colac Police wants to ensure everyone stays as safe as they can this weekend through Operation Nexus. ================================================================Colac’s ambulance station is one of several regional branches welcoming new faces this week. Minister for Ambulance Services, Mary-Anne Thomas says A cohort of twenty graduate paramedics has officially hit the road, with four specifically assigned to the Barwon South West region. ================================================================AND IN SPORTTwo CDFNL matches await this weekend with the 2025 Grand Final rematch between the Colac Imperials and Alvie Swans. The Coastal Cup will also take place with Apollo Bay heading to Lorne. ================================================================Five talented Colac soccer players have been selected for the 2026 Geelong Representative teams. Jasper Milner, Rocco Aylett, and Samuel Irunga join the elite squads, alongside Dash Bannan and Solomon Coventry, who have both been named captains of their respective age groups. ================================================================Lorne police are investigating a break-in at the Deans Marsh Cricket Club. Intruders smashed windows to gain entry and stole a significant quantity of spirits and cider. Authorities discovered a large amount of blood at the scene, suggesting an offender was injured during the crime. Anyone with information on the theft or suspicious injuries is urged to call Crime Stoppers. ================================================================ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for April 1, 2026.================================The Federal and State Governments have announced a significant funding boost to help bushfire-affected residents in the Colac Otway and Corangamite shires rebuild. ================================================================Everyone across the Colac Otway region and beyond is invited to Colac's Botanic Gardens to help raised funds for the Royal Children's Hospital, Good Friday Appeal. Ace Radio Colac's General Manager Nick Hay says the day features something for everyone with sport activities and crafts, as well as Stumpy the train, Colac Jumping Castles, The Bulla van and of course Easter Bunny will stop by for a Easter Egg Hunt. ================================================================Drivers across Colac and the South West are being urged to stay alert as animal collisions hit a record high. New figures from NRMA Insurance reveal fifteen-thousand animals were hit on Australian roads over the past year—a twenty-one percent increase on 2024. Executive Manager for Claims, Nick Kirkovski, says says regional motorists must remain extra vigilant at dawn and dusk. ================================================================Ten weeks after devastating fires swept through the Corangamite Shire, Mayor Kate Makin says the work to rebuild is far from over. While the fires have left the headlines, council staff remain in daily contact with families across Skipton, Larralea, and Simpson. Currently, twenty-one families in the Skipton area are receiving intensive case support as they navigate the long road home. ================================================================The T-A-C is urging South West drivers to prioritize rest before hitting the road this Easter. With traffic volumes set to spike, motorists are encouraged to utilise the Driver Reviver site on the Princes Highway in Colac. ================================================================ Victoria’s toughest bail laws are in full effect, targeting repeat offenders to prioritise community safety. The new "second-strike" rule means anyone already on bail for an indictable offence who commits another will no longer benefit from the presumption of bail. ================================================================AND IN SPORTThe CDFNL has taken out the Under 17s Barwon Junior Netball Championships in Geelong after a 5 goals victory over the Bellarine. Colac 50, defeated the Bellarine 45 with Irrewarra-Beeac's Emmy Frith named the League Best and Fairest. Lorne's Asha McNaughton won the league award in the Under 13s. ================================================================It was a podium finish for Cobden’s own Blake Walsh at Premier Speedway Event. In a high-stakes battle for the 2026 Tire Factory Wingless Sprints Victorian Title, Walsh steered the S-1 machine to a second-place finish, trailing only A-1 Tyson Martin. ================================================================ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news from March 31, 2026.====================================Colac Highway Patrol are appealing for Witnesses on Sunday afternoon near Queen and Hearn Street. Local spokesperson Jamie Kahle spoke with Ace Radio yesterday and says a car was clocked doing 130 kilometres per hour in a 50 zone and driving erratically. ========================================================================A significant 120-acre rural holding has been listed for sale in Barwon Downs. The property at 55 Wineshanty Road is being marketed by Charles Stewart as a "blue-chip" opportunity for both cattle grazing and fodder production. ========================================================================South West residents can expect to see smoke across the horizon as Forest Fire Management Victoria ramps up its autumn burning program. With 29 burns scheduled across the region covering over 14,000 hectares, crews are taking advantage of stable conditions to reduce fuel loads near Great Ocean Road communities.========================================================================Leading industry experts in the fuel sector are calling for government intervention following a deepening crisis causing prices to skyrocket. CEO of the Australasian Convenience and Petroleum Marketers Association, Rowan Lee spoke with Ace Radio's Country Today program saying action is needed urgently. ========================================================================VOICED BY AIDEN Corangamite Shire residents are invited to boost their wellbeing with a series of free nutrition sessions at the Camperdown RSL.========================================================================South West Coast MP Roma Britnell says she's been inundated with querie. following the State Government's announcement of free travel on public transport over the coming month The VLine website states during the free travel period coaches can continue to be booked as normal. but seat reservations are not available on several train lines including the Warrnambool Line Local Members including Member for Polwarth Richard Riordan and Ms Britnell say it's already causing concerns. ========================================================================AND IN SPORTThe Colac Basketball Association has wrapped up its domestic basketball season with premiers and MVP's crowned. South tookout the A Grade men's title. The Wings beat the Aces in the A Grade women's title. Janelle Monaghan was the A Grade Women's MVP, and Luka Gerber won the Men's. ========================================================================Colac's Division 1 Pennant Golf team produced a solid hitout to beat The Sands 5-2. Division 4 also had a resounding win against Torquay. In Division 3 Women's Pennant, Colac sits on top of the ladder after a win against Portarlington. ======================================================================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for March 30, 2026.=============================Cattle stolen from a Pirron Yallock property in February have been returned amid ongoing investigations from local Police. Police spokesperson Stephen Bull says a result following the theft is expected to come in the coming days. ==========================================================The Corangamite Catchment Management Authority is joining forces with regional partners to develop a new long-term plan for the state's water security. The Western Region Sustainable Water Strategy will tackle the challenges of a warmer and drier future, focusing on everything from agriculture to environmental health. ==========================================================A tip-off from a Lavers Hill local has helped police capture a wanted 27-year-old man who allegedly rammed a divisional van earlier this week. Officers from Colac and Birregurra coordinated a tactical response after the suspect was seen at a local café. ==========================================================Corangamite Shire Council is reassuring residents that essential services will remain uninterrupted despite diesel prices in Camperdown soaring above three dollars per litre. CEO David Rae says while the spike is significant, all kerbside collections—including waste, recycling, and FOGO—are continuing as scheduled. ==========================================================With fuel prices putting the squeeze on South West households, the State Government is stepping in with an immediate cost-of-living fix. From tomorrow all public transport across Victoria will be completely free for one month. For Colac and Warrnambool commuters, this means no fares on V/Line trains and local buses until the end of April. ==========================================================G21 is calling on the Victorian Government to invest in revitalising CBDs across the region in order to drive economic growth, jobs, housing supply and community wellbeing. G21 Chair and Colac Otway Shire Mayor Jason Schram, says coordinated CBD investment across the region is critical to long‐term economic resilience. ==========================================================Member for Wannon Dan Tehan has called for increased urgency from the federal government as the fuel crisis depends. Mr Tehan says it has been more than a month since the Iran conflict broke out and there has still been limited actions to fix the skyrocketing prices of fuel. ==========================================================AND IN SPORTThe CDFNL season kicked off which reigning premier Alvie picking up where they left off last season. The Swans recorded a 15 point win against the Irrewarra-Beeac Bombers. Jesse Williamson kicked 3 for Alvie, while Charlie Morrissy snagged 3 for the Bombers.==========================================================The Final Four remain in the Colac Golf Club's 2026 Captains Trophy after a big weekend of Golf. Ros Monaghan, Sheryl Langdon, Julie Baud and Jill Rodger remain with the next round of play on April 7. ========================================================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for March 27, 2026.==================================Forest Fire Management Victoria is preparing for a major burning program across the Otway district to protect coastal and inland communities. ====================================================================Carlisle River Primary School is hosting a special community fun day this Saturday, March 28th. Running from 11 AM to 2 PM, the event is a chance for local families to come together and connect after the challenging bushfire emergency in January. ====================================================================Residents impacted by the Otway Ranges bushfires are being urged to head to the Carlisle River Community Fun Day this Saturday for more than just a BBQ. Barwon Community Legal Service will be on-site from 11 AM to 2 PM.====================================================================The IGA Café in Colac is inviting locals to help make a massive impact for the Royal Melbourne Children’s Hospital. Next Thursday, April 2nd, the café is aiming to raise five thousand dollars for the Good Friday Appeal. ====================================================================Construction has officially begun on the new home of the Lorne Aquatic and Angling Club. Heavy machinery has moved into Point Grey to begin pile driving for the club’s new foundations, following the demolition of the sixty-five-year-old clubhouse last week. ====================================================================The Simpson Football and Netball Clubs rooms will be getting a makeover with a builder contracted for the 1.1 million dollar build. Corangamite Shire Mayor Kate Makin says the redevelopment is long overdue for the rooms which are more than 50 years old. ====================================================================AND IN SPORTThe Warrion Recreation Reserve will be a hub of nostalgia this Sunday as the Warrion Panthers Football Netball Club hosts its first-ever official reunion. From 11:00 AM, former players, supporters, and families will gather to share stories and celebrate the club’s long-standing history. ====================================================================The Colac District Football Netball League officially kicks off this Saturday with a massive Round Zero clash. Reigning premiers Alvie will host Irrewarra-Beeac at the Alvie Recreation Reserve for a standalone season launch. ====================================================================Preseason is tracking along nicely for the Colac Otway Rovers as they settle in under new coach Darren Balboni. Coach Balboni says they have had some strong hitouts in preseason matches against Corangamite Lions and the Warrnambool Wolves with their attention now turning to the South West Cup. ==================================================================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for March 26, 2026.==================================Earlier this week Australia signed a free trade agreement with the European Union, which has drawn much criticism from farmers across the region. Larpent Dairy Farmer Mark Billing spoke to Ace Radio's Country Today program saying the deal could negatively impact dairy prices. ====================================================================Colac Otway Shire Council is moving toward a more data-driven approach for road improvements with the release of its Draft Road Upgrade Policy. ====================================================================Colac footy fans heading to GMHBA Stadium tonight have a stress-free way to reach the ground. The 3:15 PM Warrnambool to Southern Cross service will make a special additional stop at South Geelong Station specifically for the Cats versus Crows clash. ====================================================================Colac is officially home to the best-tasting tap water in the Barwon region. The local treatment plant at Elliminyt took out top honors in a blind taste test, beating out six other regional facilities. Gellibrand finished a strong second, proving its supply has fully recovered from January’s bushfire disruptions. Colac’s winning sample is now being judged in Bendigo at the state finals today, as Barwon Water looks to defend its title as the reigning Victorian champion. ====================================================================A new roadmap for Winchelsea’s future has been officially adopted, setting the stage for growth over the next three decades.====================================================================AND IN SPORTThe Life Saving Victoria education team is celebrating a record-breaking open water season, reaching nearly four thousand students across the state. Expanding far beyond Melbourne, the team completed eight regional tours to equip kids with vital water safety skills. From Port Campbell to Echuca, and across to Lakes Entrance, participation has jumped by a massive 62% this year, ensuring more young Victorians stay safe at local beaches and rivers. ====================================================================The GCA Cricket Grand Finals this weekend will feature a host of Colac talent. Former Warrion cricketer, City United export Luke Inglis and Stoneyford's Shane McNamara will feature in East Belmont's first grade side which will take on North Geelong. In East Belmont's second grade side former Irrewarra Bill Johnston medallist Danny Hegarty and Apollo Bay quick Stuart Carter take on Grovedale. ==================================================================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for March 25, 2026.====================================The deadline for submissions to the Parliamentary Inquiry into the 2026 summer bushfires has been extended to April 19. The inquiry will consider preparation and planning by the state government, emergency services agencies, causes and circumstances of the bushfires, funding equipment and appliances for the CFA==================================== ====================================Health authorities are urging residents across the Barwon South West to check their immunization records as measles cases continue to climb across Victoria. ==================================== ====================================It has been a challenging start to the year for the regions floodplain managers dealing with drought, debris from fires, and larger scale rain events as well. Corangamite Catchment Management Authority Floodplain expert Rachel Limb says studying the regions waterways can help them mitigate future issues. ==================================== ====================================Corangamite Shire residents are invited to a "first-class" night of theatre as the award-winning play Red Sky Morning comes to the Theatre Royal. Playing for one night only on Friday, May 29th, the production explores the silent resilience and deep connections within a regional family. ==================================== ====================================Golden Guitar winner Tom Curtain is bringing his "Here’s To You" tour to Colac this Friday night, marking ten years of his famous Katherine Outback Experience. The show features live music alongside horse training and working dog demonstrations to bring communities together. ==================================== ====================================Sixty-seven-year-old retiree Damien Kelly is currently pedalling his way across Australia, having departed Perth on March 16th. Riding solo and unsupported, Kelly’s four-thousand-kilometre journey will take him along the Great Ocean Road before finishing in Geelong. ==================================== ====================================AND IN SPORTBoth Colac Golf Club Pennant Golf teams suffered defeats over the weekend. In Division 1 Geelong was too strong for Colac, while in Division 4 Apollo 4 defeated Colac 3. This weekend Division 1 takes on The Sands at their home course, and Division 4 faces Torquay at East Geelong. ==================================== ====================================It’s been a season of patience for the Colac Yacht Club, but members finally gathered Friday to celebrate their award winners. Despite an interrupted schedule due to low lake water levels, the competition remained fierce. Ian Lane and his vessel This Way Up took out first place in the Trailable division, while David McKenzie claimed the A-Class title. The prestigious Club Champion award went to Brian Cooper for his outstanding dedication to the club throughout the year. ==================================== ====================================In Big V's Youth League Colac export Emmett Keem and his Westgate Imperials teammates enjoyed a solid win against Melbourne University over the weekeend. Keem brought down 6 rebounds in the teams 4 point win. Attention for Keem now turns to the Ballarat Miners this weekend. ==================================== ==================================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here is what is making news for March 24, 2026.==============================Camperdown police are reminding motorists that they are out in force following a double drink-driving bust on Saturday night. A 19-year-old P-plater and a man in his late twenties were both intercepted after returning breath test readings of approximately point-zero-eight. ============================================================Local environmental and sporting groups across the Corangamite Shire are being invited to apply for a share of council funding. ============================================================Colac Secondary College has confirmed it will be unable to run a normal program today to statewide industrial action. All students in Years 8 through 12 are being asked to remain at home and complete learning tasks via Microsoft Teams. ============================================================A Swan Marsh dairy farm is leading the nation today with the installation of a revolutionary "solar-in-a-box" microgrid. Farmer Peter Mulheron is opening his gates this Thursday and Friday to show how the portable 105-kilowatt system provides eighty per cent of his yearly power needs. ============================================================The farming future of those across the South West was brought up in parliament this week as questions were raised about its sustainability as Australia's fuel crisis deepens. Member for Polwarth Richard Riordan says the city-centric government is ignoring the major issues surrounding diesel security and skyrocketing fertilizer prices. ============================================================Families at St Brendan’s School in Coragulac are set to save hundreds of dollars a year following the expansion of Victoria’s Smile Squad dental program. ============================================================A coroner has labelled the death of a man in a suspicious Beeac house fire as "preventable," leading to fresh calls for a statewide hoarding taskforce. The investigation into the 2020 blaze found the property had a clutter rating of nine-out-of-nine in some areas, which blocked exits and fueled the fire. ============================================================AND IN SPORTCity United export Aanliyah Cheeran's and Princetown's Milly Illingworth have helped Victoria's second eleven defeat a Premier Women's All Star team in a showcase exhibition match. Cheeran bowled two overs, while the second 11 won by four wickets. ============================================================Former Birregurra cricketer Brendan Miller featured for the Melbourne Renegades in its 2026 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander T20 Tournament Squad taking on the Melbourne Stars. The Melbourne Stars won by 82 runs with the match played at Junction Oval. Miller has also previously represented the Victorian Indigenous cricket team, last playing for Birregurra in 2024.============================================================Winchelsea's first XI team has won the the Bellarine-Peninsula Cricket Association's A2 Grade Grand Final successfully beating Collendina. The Blues won on the back of a staring performance from former Alvie gun Jarrod Groves. Groves made 22 runs, and picked up 4-68 from 27.5 overs. Former City United captain Shane Currie also featured with 14 runs and a run out.============================== ============================== See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.